zoning

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The town of Newton, Massachusetts is working to comply with a new state law that requires the construction of new multifamily housing units in areas served by public transit, according to reporting from the Boston Globe.

The law, which went into effect in early February, requires 177 communities served by the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA) to eliminate barriers that could restrict the zoning and construction of multifamily housing units.

As of February, just seven of the 175 initial communities that were required to submit preliminary compliance plans had failed to do so by the initial deadline.

“This new law requires that an MBTA community shall have at least one zoning district of reasonable size in which multi-family housing is permitted as of right and meets other criteria set forth in the statute,” according to information posted by the state government.

Other criteria include a minimum density of at least 15 units per acre; that a development be located no more than one-half mile from a transportation hub (such as a commuter rail station, ferry terminal, subway station or ferry terminal); and that the units have no age restrictions and are suitable for families with children.

However, the debate in Newton could be more contentious than in other parts of the state, according to the Globe.

“Newton, one of the region’s wealthiest enclaves, has to zone for more new units under the state rezoning law, MBTA Communities, than almost any other community,” the article states. “Should the rezoning overcome fledgling resident opposition and pass by the end-of-year deadline, it could serve as a model for other communities and represent a major turning point in the city’s attitude toward multifamily housing.”

The median home price for a single-family home in the area is $1.6 million, according to data from Warren Group.

The debate is due in large part to the way Newton is currently zoned, which is primarily for single-family homes. Some apartments have been constructed in recent years, but the construction level has been low.

Between 2010 and 2020, roughly 1,100 new housing units were added in Newton, accounting for just over 3% of the area’s total housing stock. This has led Newton to have some of the highest housing prices in the state.

In addition to the price concerns, most multifamily construction has been concentrated in commercial areas in recent years.

The current proposal would add an estimated 10,000 new units, depending on parking requirements, which is well above the 8,330 units mandated by the new law. The new unit construction would also impact only 3% of Newton’s land and is not expected to impact existing single-family neighborhoods.

This is the latest step being taken at the state level to temper the housing supply shortages occurring nationwide. In New York, Gov. Kathy Hochul is pushing the state’s government to override local zoning laws and mandate more housing construction in the state’s suburban counties.

In Washington state, Gov. Jay Inslee recently signed a series of bills designed to spur more affordable housing construction, including through the elimination of single-family zoning. Similar measures have been introduced in states like Florida and Minnesota, but have ultimately been reversed.

Source: housingwire.com

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Mosquito Fire Forces Evacuations In Placer County

Firefighters saw trees on a hillside in order to open the path for bulldozers during the Mosquito Fire near Foresthill, California, US, on Wednesday, Sept. 7, 2022.

David Odisho/Photographer: David Odisho/Bloom

Californians looking to buy a house face some of the country’s most expensive real estate prices and wildfires that threaten scores of housing tracts. Now there’s another obstacle: finding an insurer willing to cover their dream home.

State Farm General Insurance Co. said it’s no longer accepting new applications for property and casualty coverage in California last week, a year after Allstate Corp. also paused new policies, worsening what FAIR Plan, a state-mandated insurance pool, called a “looming insurance unavailability crisis.” 

“We have a lot of people going naked, which means they have no insurance,” said Bill Dodd, a Democrat state senator representing fire-scarred Napa County and other parts of Northern California. “What my constituents want is insurance.”

The FAIR Plan, which offers minimal coverage and high rates is meant to be a provider of last resort, but enrollments have surged 70% since 2019 to 272,846 homes in 2022. 

It’s a blow for the nation’s most populous state, which is already struggling with an exodus of residents, many of whom are escaping the high cost of living.

The Golden State is grappling with a roughly 1 million-unit housing shortfall, in part fueled by rising costs and zoning restrictions that have choked off new construction projects. On top of that, a series of catastrophic wildfires in recent years have increased calls from insurers to weaken the state’s consumer-friendly policies that have held down rates for decades. 

Rate Increase

The average homeowners’ policy is $1,300 in California compared to over $2,000 in other states with wildfire risk and $4,000 in hurricane-prone Florida, according to Insurance Information Institute. 

But new home buyers could be forced to pay more, regardless of their home’s proximity to wildfire dangers. Before State Farm’s announcement, the company requested a 28% rate hike on homeowners’ insurance, while Allstate has filed for a 39.6% increase. 

The insurance crunch is affecting buyers across the state already, even in areas where the wildfire risk is low. In San Francisco, realtors say they have seen deals fall through because would-be buyers couldn’t get insured.

“What we’re hearing is that now, when buyers present an offer on a property we’re not only asking them for pre-approval for a lender, we’re also asking them if they’ve spoken to their insurance agent if they’ll insure the property,” said Joske Thompson, a realtor at Compass Inc. with 40 years experience in the area. 

Home insurance is an essential step of purchasing a home. Mortgage lenders generally require proof of insurance before approving the transaction to protect their investment in the property. Without insurance. buyers would be forced to make an all-cash purchase in most cases. 

Finding a Compromise

As the state’s insurance woes accelerate, the industry is taking aim at California’s marquee consumer protection law, Proposition 103, a ballot measure voters approved in 1988. The law has saved consumers tens of billions of dollars in reduced insurance rate hikes, according to the state’s insurance regulator. 

“In the last six years, we lost 20 years’ worth of underwriting profit, and that was due to the catastrophic wildfires that we’ve faced,” said Janet Ruiz, a spokesperson with the Insurance Information Institute. 

Harvey Rosenfield, the author of Prop 103 and founder of the Consumer Watchdog advocacy group, said climate change might require insurance companies to raise rates, but he argued that companies are using wildfire impacts to gouge customers.

“Insurance companies are very opportunistic,” he said. “They have seized on climate change as an excuse to escape from the regulatory protections that voters enacted.” 

State lawmakers and industry representatives must find a compromise that would keep the insurance market viable while protecting consumers from excessive rate hikes, but that may mean Californians will have to pay more for home insurance in the future, said Dodd.

“You bite the bullet and you move forward,” said Dan Dunmoyer, president of the California Building Industry Association. Without rate increases, more insurers may leave the state, affecting everything from mortgage lending to housing supply, he said.”You have a market that is teetering on collapse.”

Source: nationalmortgagenews.com

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Here’s the story, of a house named Brady. HGTV has put the famous “Brady Bunch” house in Los Angeles, with its instantly recognizable street view, on the market.

The saga of this house has a new storyline, and it’s a real cliffhanger: Will HGTV be able to recoup its investment in the famous home, which was used only for exterior shots on the iconic ’70s TV show?

The home has since been rebuilt, inside and out, as a replica of the set piece from the show. The $5.5 million list price is on the high end of the suburb of Studio City. The area has a median list price of $1.9 million.

But this is a very special home—especially since HGTV got its hands on it in 2018.

brady bunch housebrady bunch house
The “Brady Bunch” house as it appeared on the show

(CBS/YouTube)

A very Brady abode

Locals have long known about the iconic home, and longtime fans visit frequently to take photos of the exterior. The exterior has essentially stayed much the same way it had appeared in “The Brady Bunch,” which aired from 1969 to 1974, then entered into perpetual syndication.

Some say it’s the most photographed private residence in America, right after the White House.

The owners thought that the notoriety would add some value, so they listed their famous split-level in 2018 for an ambitious $1,885,000. It was built in 1959.

brady bunch housebrady bunch house
The house as it appeared when it went on the market in 2018

(realtor.com)

What they didn’t expect was HGTV entering a bidding war with former ‘N Sync member Lance Bass and several others. The network prevailed, paying $3.5 million for the home. It had big plans to put the house back on TV.

‘A Very Brady Renovation’

The network taped a limited series, called “A Very Brady Renovation,” in which show hosts Drew and Jonathan Scott worked alongside other HGTV stars to re-create every detail of the iconic home. Joining them were the now-grown cast members who played the six Brady kids.

The renovation series drew in more than 28 million viewers.

Brady Bunch HouseBrady Bunch House
The Brady “kids” in front of the old “Brady Bunch” house

(HGTV)

The interior scenes of the TV series were actually shot on nearby sound stages, so it was quite a challenge to find period furnishings and finishes and to redesign the home so it looked exactly like the one on TV.

HGTV poured $1.9 million into the massive renovation, which added 2,000 square feet to the property’s original footprint. That included a full second story.

Fully reimagined living room

(Realtor.com)

Including the renovation costs, HGTV’s investment in the five-bedroom, five-bath, 5,140-square-foot property totals $5.4 million, which is just about the current asking price.

What it looks like now

The house today

(Realtor.com)

So what will the next owners get? Among the standout features added are the floating staircase, the burnt-orange-and-avocado-green kitchen, the kids’ Jack-and-Jill bathroom, and the backyard with a swing set, teeter-totter, and Tiger’s doghouse.

Orange and avocado kitchen

(Realtor.com)

The backyard

(Realtor.com)

Customized pieces include the green floral couch and the credenza with a horse sculpture in the living room.

Fun fact: The show producers reached out to collectors to find the horse sculpture used on the set, and when one couldn’t be located, they ended up printing one in 3D.

The horse sculpture was printed in 3D to match the original.

(Realtor.com)

Would you live there?

So, would anyone actually want to live in a home filled with shag carpeting, wood paneling, and pastel-colored walls in all the bedrooms and bathrooms?

Girls’ bedroom

(Realtor.com)

Boys’ bedroom

(Realtor.com)

How comfortable would you be in a $5.5 million home outfitted with appliances that were brand-new in the 1970s but not exactly state-of-the-art now, and a backyard that features a swing set rather than a pool?

And then, there are the caveats for potential buyers: “Fireplaces and some appliances/fixtures are decorative only. The home is being sold as is.”

The home is located in a lovely, mostly quiet neighborhood within walking distance of great shops and restaurants, and backs up on the L.A. River.

So, is this a house that’s made more for TV than real life?

Mike Brady’s office with an artificial fireplace

(Realtor.com)

Is it ready for a real-life bunch?

Though true to its TV counterpart, this home’s retro kitchen and bathrooms are no longer in vogue.

Jack-and-Jill bathroom

(Realtor.com)

While the midcentury modern style is still popular, you don’t see a lot of people bringing back that 1970s style. After a while, those period rooms might become an eyesore.

The den

(Realtor.com)

There’s also the tourist problem.

Coldwell Banker luxury property specialist Gail Steinberg, who lives about a block from the famous home, has had intrepid fans stopping her on the sidewalk to ask, “Do you know where the ‘Brady Bunch’ house is?”

Interest in the house has gone up significantly since the HGTV show, and it draws a steady stream of people cruising by to snap pictures.

Still, Steinberg believes the $5.5 million asking price is not unrealistic.

“Look how far above the asking price it went for last time it sold,” she says.

Could the home become a short-term rental?

If the zoning permits short-term rentals, the new homeowners could fetch a pretty penny from folks who want to bask in the home’s nostalgic glory. But the remodeled interiors seem too valuable to risk exposing to careless renters.

It might have value as a location for photo, TV, and movie shoots. But Los Angeles puts limitations on that as well—for the wellbeing of the neighbors. So it’s also not a dependable source of income.

Also, consider security

“There’s security parked out in front 24/7,” Steinberg notes. Apparently, that’s been necessary ever since HGTV very publicly took over the property, as there are no walls or hedges protecting it from zealous fans.

That’s also an expense the new owners will have to shoulder.

So who is the most likely buyer?

Steinberg believes a high-rolling real estate collector—perhaps someone who would stay in the home occasionally for fun—would happily pay $5.5 million, or more.

Often, buyers at that level pay cash and aren’t affected by high-interest rates, she adds.

Also, a wealthy collector would be less likely to be intimidated by the caveats in the listing: “Intellectual property rights are not included in the sale. Buyer is advised to do their own due diligence to investigate the legal rights and usage of the home including zoning, permits, rental laws, etc.”

But, there’s always bragging rights.

“It’s an ego thing,” Steinberg says. “‘I own the ‘Brady Bunch’ house!’”

Win-win

Neighbors would be most likely OK with the “Brady Bunch” house going private. The street would no longer be a tourist magnet, and a home selling for upward of $5.5 million in the area would surely raise their property values.

Other very deserving people would also benefit from the house selling at a premium. HGTV plans to use a portion of the proceeds from the sale to help fight child hunger.

The cast of the “Brady Bunch” on the stairs

(ABC Photo Archives/ABC via Getty Images)

Danny Brown at Compass holds the listing.

Source: realtor.com

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For those looking to build their dream home, purchasing land is usually the first big step.

While building a house is far from easy, there are ways for first-time homeowners to make their dreams achievable. Land loans are a great resource, often used in conjunction with a traditional loan. Anyone choosing to build a house is likely to at least consider applying for a land loan.

A land or lot loan is a great financing option for those who have always dreamed of buying land and building their own home.

11 Best Banks for Land Loans

Because land loans typically carry higher interest rates than traditional mortgage loans, it pays to carefully consider the pros and cons of several lenders.

Below we’ve compiled a detailed list of the banks and credit unions offering the best land loans available today. Whatever lender you choose, be sure to check beforehand that they are fully licensed to provide mortgage loans.

The Nationwide Mortgage Licensing System (NMLS) is a centralized database of licensed lenders which you can use as a reference.

1. Atlantic Union Bank

Atlantic Union Bank offers land loans for both residential lots and undeveloped land. The bank is based in Virginia.

There are also separate construction loans available for those interested in financing the construction of a residence. Bear in mind that while Atlantic Union has a strong reputation as lenders, having been in business since 1902, they don’t have services like loan calculators, interest rate guidelines, or down payment information on their website.

For more information on a land loan with Atlantic, you’ll need to call them or visit a local branch to speak about a land loan.

2. Old National Bank

Old National Bank is headquartered in Indiana, and has been in operation since 1834. They offer lending products and services to residents of Indiana, Minnesota, Wisconsin, Michigan, and Kentucky. Old National has two different types of financing for land on offer, depending on the size of the property you’re interested in:

  • Lot Loans are designed to finance land purchases of no more than 5 acres, requiring a 20% down payment.
  • Land Loans are for larger property, designed to finance land purchases between 5 and 25 acres. These loans come with a minimum down payment of 35%.

Both land and lot loans with Old National will carry various interest rates and repayment terms. You can get either of these loan types for both improved and unimproved land, and there is no obligation to immediately begin building once a loan is secured.

Old National Bank also has around 250 brick-and-mortar locations since merging with First Midwest Bank. If visiting a local branch to speak with a loan officer is your preference, you shouldn’t have to travel too far.

On the other hand, you also have the option of using Old National’s online loan calculator and online loan application service, if visiting a local branch isn’t convenient.

3. Mountain America Credit Union

Mountain America Credit Union is a federally chartered credit union regulated by the National Credit Union Administration (NCUA) and headquartered in Sandy, Utah. They locations across Arizona, Idaho, Utah, Montana, Nevada, and New Mexico.

Mountain America’s lot loans are available with 85% financing on approved credit, fully amortizing fixed-rate and balloon options, and an easy online application process. The loans are designed to be easily converted to a construction loan, ensuring that you can move forward with your home building plans when you’re ready.

4. WaFd Bank

WaFd, or Washington Federal, offers bank loans for improved land up to the value of $700,000, without any immediate obligations to build.

You can use their online loan calculator to receive an estimate of the interest rates you can expect for a land loan. These estimates are based on your credit score, development plans and the specifications of your desired property.

The minimum down payments and interest rates will vary depending on your ideal loan term, as well as all the other details of your application.

You can apply directly for loans through their online portal, as well as in person at a bank branch. Land loans are available from WaFd Bank only in the following states: Washington, Idaho, Nevada, New Mexico, Oregon, Texas and Utah.

5. Banner Bank

Banner Bank is active in the states of Idaho, Washington, Oregon, and California. They offer financing for purchasing both improved and unimproved land. Banner allows customers to borrow up to 75% of a property’s purchase price, and they also claim to bring competitive interest rates and fees.

All loans with Banner Bank are approved in-house, which means a streamlined credit score check and loan approval process.

If you do apply for a loan with Banner Bank, you also have the option of locking in a fixed interest rate or a flexible rate. Banner also offers financing for construction and personal loans.

6. California Bank & Trust

Customers with California Bank and Trust can potentially avail of both a land loan and a construction loan in one. The bank offers financing for up to 60% of the lot purchase value, along with several loan options.

The option to choose either a single or dual-purpose loan, which can cover both land purchase and construction of a home, makes California Bank & Trust an attractive lender. This is a great option for those looking to save both time and money.

You can apply for a loan online, over the phone, or in person at a local branch.

7. Randolph-Brooks Federal Credit Union

Randolph-Brooks Federal Credit Union is not your typical financial institution. As a financial cooperative, its sole mission is to help members save time, save money, and earn money. Over the years, the credit union has expanded its reach to over 1 million members in Texas and beyond, with a strong presence in Austin, Corpus Christi, Dallas-Fort Worth, and San Antonio.

With over 60 branches dedicated to serving members and the community, RBFCU offers a range of land loan benefits and features, including term options up to 15 years, free 60-day rate lock, and up to 90% financing.

And the best part? There are no building requirements from the lender, so you can have the freedom to build your dream home the way you want. Set up automatic payments and let RBFCU help you make your land ownership dreams a reality.

8. Citizens Bank & Trust

Citizens Bank & Trust is a North Alabama-based institution that’s committed to providing a hassle-free lending experience. What’s more, you can roll your loan into a permanent one, saving you on closing costs.

With local decision-making and processing, you’ll get the personalized attention you deserve, while a streamlined application process ensures you get your funds when you need them. You can experience a stress-free borrowing experience when you choose Citizens Bank & Trust for your land loan needs.

9. Alpine Bank

Alpine Bank is active in Colorado, offering financial services including land loans. Specifically, they offer loans for both lot and new constructions, with a maximum loan to value amount of 75% for land classified as improved.

Alpine Bank doesn’t offer lending details on their website. You can use their website to connect with lending experts in your county. You can also reach out for more loan information online, over the phone, or in person at one of their local bank branches.

10. First Bank & Trust

If you’re looking to buy land or a lot and build your dream home, First Bank and Trust Company can help. Headquartered in southwest Virginia, with additional locations in Tennessee, North Carolina, and Virginia, the bank is committed to helping you realize your homeownership goals.

With a range of lot and land loans, you can choose the financing option that’s right for you, while enjoying competitive rates and flexible terms. Whether you’re looking to build your dream home or invest in a piece of land, First Bank and Trust Company has the financing options you need to make it happen.

11. First Hawaiian Bank

First Hawaiian Bank offers land loan options designed for those who are ready to buy land but not quite ready to build. With 2- and 3-year terms available and no prepayment penalty, you can secure the land you want without worrying about costly fees. And with interim financing available to purchase a vacant lot at residential pricing, you can lock down the land you need to bring your vision to life.

Best of all, your FHB land loan can be refinanced into a construction-to-permanent loan with reduced fees, making it easier than ever to get the financing you need to build your dream home.

land for sale

What are land loans?

Land loans are loan products designed to help individuals and businesses purchase land for development. A bank, credit union, or online lender can offer specific loans for those interested in buying land. Land loans are also known as ‘lot loans’.

Similar to a mortgage loan, land loans provide individuals and small businesses the opportunity to finance the purchase of land for many purposes, such as investment, agriculture, recreation, or development.

However, because these types of loan are considered riskier for lenders, they typically come with a higher interest rate compared to a mortgage loan. In addition, the conditions of the loan will depend on the type of land being purchased, as well as what the land will be used for.

Let’s take a closer look at the types of land that a land loan can help finance.

Types of Land Classification

Your chances of obtaining financing for land will depend partly on the type of land you want to purchase. In general, lenders who offer land loans will view developed land as less of a risk than undeveloped land.

When it comes to land loans, there are three primary types of land considered for financing.

Raw Land

‘Raw land’ is the first classification and refers to completely undeveloped, rural land. Think no buildings, electricity or drainage system. This is the most difficult land to obtain financing for because land loan lenders view it as the greatest risk of abandonment.

As a result, if you plan to apply for a land loan for raw land, you’ll need to demonstrate that you’ve got a detailed plan for development. Showing lenders that you’re competent and dedicated to the project will help you navigate the lending market.

Although the purchase price of raw land is often cheaper than land that is developed, a raw land loan will come with higher rates. You may also be required to put up a more substantial down payment.

Unimproved Land

‘Unimproved land’ is a step up from raw land, and covers a broad variety of possibilities. Unimproved land will often be land that was once developed, or has seen failed attempts at development in the past. In some cases unimproved land will have some limited access to utilities and amenities, but will need significant repair and refurbishing.

An unimproved land loan can also be difficult to get, even though it poses less risk compared to raw land. Again, having a detailed plan and being aware of the challenges at hand will be a huge help when negotiating with lenders. A large down payment and a strong credit score will also be helpful.

While lenders tend to view unimproved land loans as less risky than raw land, it is still common for rates to be a fair bit higher compared to traditional mortgage rates, for example.

Improved Land Loan

‘Improved land’ typically has decent or good access to utilities, roads and water. Because improved land is the most developed land type, it almost always comes with a higher price tag. On the other hand, this means that interest rates will be significantly lower compared to raw or unimproved land loans. You’ll also find more affordable down payments for developed lots.

For most aspiring homeowners, purchasing land that is already developed with access to basic amenities is the ideal. This allows them to immediately get to work building a house, whereas having to develop land first could add at least another year to their construction project.

How to Apply for a Land Loan

If you want to buy land and build your dream home, you’ll probably want to apply for a land loan. Land loan applying isn’t complex, and land loans work the same as many other types of loan. Here are the steps involved:

Find a Plot

You should start by first identifying the plot of land you want to buy. It helps to have a few options chosen in advance. For example, in the event that you can’t afford to find a good lending option for your first choice, you can quickly move on to an alternative instead. 

Draw up a Development Plan

The next step is to make a development plan for each plot that you have on your shortlist. You may need or want to hire professional help to create a solid plan. Try to include as much detail as possible, without overextending yourself or wasting too much time and money.

When it comes to development and construction plans, both an estimated timeframe and overall cost range are the most important details. A good plan will help you negotiate the best rates with a lender.

Find a Lender

Once your development plan is ready, it’s time to seek potential lenders. Depending on the type of development you’re proposing, as well as the type of land you want to buy, it may take some time to find willing lenders.

Be prepared to also take some time to consider more than one loan offer. Ideally, you can compare multiple lenders, and use a pre-approved quote from at least one lender to negotiate against others.

Complete the Application Process

Once you’ve chosen a lender and been approved for your loan, you’ll be guided through the lender’s application process. The majority of lenders will require information such as your development plan, a credit check, and personal information.

You might also need to provide details on things like zoning considerations, utilities access and land use restrictions, where relevant.

Alternative Land Financing Options

In addition to seeking a land or construction loan, there are several other types of loans and financing options available.

USDA Loans

If you’re looking to own land and build a home in a rural area, you may be eligible for a USDA loan. The U.S. Department of Agriculture offers loans that may assist low and moderate income families in finding a new home. USDA Section 523 loans are for wanting to purchase land to develop, and Section 524 loans are for financing new constructions by contractors.

While it isn’t easy to qualify for a USDA loan, the benefit is they require no down payment and the interest rates are low. USDA loans must be settled within two years, however, so there are no long term options.

FHA Loans

Another government-funded product, FHA loans are tailored towards those wanting to buy land and quickly build a home. The Federal Housing Administration insures these loans, protecting FHA-approved lenders from risk.

FHA loans are not available for land purchase alone, but for those intending to build a home on as well as land. FHA loans are sometimes granted in conjunction with construction loans, too. If you’re eligible for one of these loans, you’ll likely have a lower minimum down payment, but potentially higher interest rates.

Home Equity Loans

Home equity loans may be an appealing alternative to land loans for some homeowners. If you already own a property and have good credit standing, this kind of loan might be a good fit. A home equity loan acts as a second mortgage, and will essentially convert your equity into collateral for a new loan to fund your purchase.

Cash-Out Refinancing

Cash-out refinancing involves homeowners refinancing their homes to increase equity. This type of refinancing is essentially paying off your current mortgage to secure another mortgage, but with a lower interest rate and easier monthly payments.

Once the remortgaging is made official, your bank or financial institution will issue you a check based on the equity in your property. You can then use this payment to fund your land purchase.

SBA Loans

The Small Business Administration (SBA) offers loans to small business owners from the 504 loan program.

These loans are best suited to the purchase of real estate for business reasons, so they are not ideal for regular homeowners. However, if you’re looking for land to purchase to grow your business, you might want to consider an SBA loan.

Generally, the Small Business Administration will cover 40% of the purchase value, with 10% from the borrower and another lender of choice providing the other half of the loan. The terms and rates on SBA loans vary depending on the lender you choose to fund 50% of the land purchase.

Seller Financing

If you’re lucky, you may be able to obtain financing directly from the landowner you want to buy from. Also known as land contracts, these types of loans involve the buyer essentially taking out a loan directly from the seller, often with a substantial down payment.

Seller financing also tends to come with less than competitive interest rates. For those who struggle to qualify for a traditional mortgage or financing, seller financing can often be a great, but more costly, alternative.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best loan for buying land?

The best loan option for buying land depends on your circumstances. While improved land loans may seem ideal, the reality is there are multiple loan options to choose from.

Your credit score, debt-to-income ratio, and the condition of the land you wish to purchase are all factors that can influence which type of financing will suit you best.

Is it difficult to get a loan for land?

It’s true that obtaining loan financing for the purchase of land isn’t as easy as getting a regular personal loan. However, there are lenders out there with experience financing land purchases. As with any loan, the bottom line will be your credit score, as well as the size of your down payment. The nature of the land in question is also a primary factor.

If you can’t qualify for traditional financing options, there are alternatives such as USDA loans, FHA loans and more to consider.

Source: crediful.com

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Inflation slowed more than expected in July, the result of a dip in gas and energy prices. But soaring housing costs continue to weigh heavily on family budgets. Rents and home purchase prices are up – 17% and 20% respectively – from last year. It seems as if every day there is yet another news story highlighting how so many families are suffering under crushing housing costs.

These costs make up one-third of the Consumer Price Index, meaning they account for a big part of the inflation dilemma. For a little perspective: The shelter component of the CPI increased 0.5% in July, rose 5.7% over the last year, and accounted for about 40% of the total increase in all items other than food and energy.

CPI changes also typically lag real-time changes in housing costs, so we can expect shelter to loom large in future CPI calculations even if rent growth may be slowing down, as some have suggested.

Classic supply and demand mismatch

At the root of high and rising housing costs is the severe shortage of affordable homes both for rent and sale. What we are witnessing is a classic supply-demand mismatch: there are simply not enough homes, particularly those that are affordable to low- and middle-income households. While estimates vary, most analysts agree we have underbuilt housing of all types by millions of homes over the past 20 years.

Economists are beginning to highlight the importance of increasing housing supply to help reduce inflation. As Mark Zandi, Chief Economist at Moody’s Analytics, explained to the Washington Post: “No matter what happens to pricing across most goods, inflation will remain high as long as the cost of housing continues to rise so quickly.”  In a more recent tweet, Zandi adds: “Driving [strong rent growth] is a severe shortage of affordable homes, which has been long in the making, and won’t be resolved quickly.”

Jason Thomas, former economic advisor to President George W. Bush, concurs, saying that high inflation can be attributed to the country’s “structural shortfall” when it comes to housing. He notes, “You could really see core inflation down close to target by year end were it not for shelter, were [it] not for primary rents…. When you look at the data in terms of cumulative housing starts it looks to be somewhere between one-and-a-half and 4 million short of what is regulatory compliance costs, as well as local zoning and land use requirements that Residential construction statistics from July 2022 show construction of single-family homes is the weakest since the onset of the pandemic and construction of multifamily dwellings has fallen as well.

The good news

While these facts should give us pause, the good news is there are many policy options that can be tapped now to increase housing supply and improve housing affordability.

At the local level, city governments can:

At the state level, officials can:

  • streamline the application process to obtain affordable-housing financing,
  • utilize tax incentives and other measures to spur the conversion of underutilized commercial space to housing, and
  • work with industry and academic institutions to support innovations in home construction that can reduce costs.

Federal policymakers, in turn, should:

  • expand and strengthen the Low-Income Housing Tax Credit program, a vital source of financing for affordable rental homes,
  • pass the Neighborhood Homes Investment Act, which would encourage private investment in entry-level homes for sale in distressed communities,
  • create federal incentives to help communities implement zoning reforms, and
  • strengthen efforts to preserve our existing affordable housing stock.

The affordable housing crisis is a national problem requiring a national response, one that is not limited just to Washington, DC, state capitals, or city halls. Fortunately, solutions abound – some big, some small, but all meaningful. 

Dennis C. Shea is the executive director of the J. Ronald Terwilliger Center for Housing Policy at the Bipartisan Policy Center.

Source: housingwire.com

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Visionary architect Zaha Hadid — known as the “Queen of the Curve” for the modern, curving designs of her buildings — had a legendary career. Her striking structures grace the skylines of major metropolitan cities, while her product designs, including furniture, jewelry, lighting, and even shoes, can be found in homes around the world. 

She designed hundreds of award-winning buildings during her lifetime, from a metro station in Saudi Arabia, to the aquatics center for the 2012 London Olympics, to a city center in downtown Belgrade, all in her signature flowing style. The Iraqi-British architect left an indelible mark on the architectural landscape, building futuristic works of art such as Beijing’s Galaxy Soho, the Guangzhou Opera House, the One Thousand Museum in Miami, the Generali Tower in Milan, and many more.

But only one house.

The spaceship-like Capital Hill Residence in Russia is the only private residence ever to be built by Hadid, who regretfully passed away in 2016. And while Zaha Hadid never had the chance to see the house come to life, that’s all the more reason for us to take a moment and soak in the beauty of one of her final works.

zaha-hadid-house-capital-hill-residence
Image courtesy of The OKO Group

Capital Hill Residence — the spaceship home born on a napkin

The incredible home, known as the ‘Capital Hill Residence,’ is located in a forested area in Barvikha, Russia and is the private home of Russian real estate magnate and philanthropist Vladislav Doronin.

When Vladislav Doronin first approached Zaha Hadid to design the house, he had one wish: “I want to wake up in the morning and just see blue sky.” To which Zaha Hadid said “You realize you have to be above the trees?” Doronin said “Yes.” So Zaha Hadid took a napkin and started drawing.

That was more than a decade ago. After their first meeting, Doronin knew he had found the architect who understood his vision for the unique home he wanted.

After facing a few hurdles along the way — Doronin first had a city lot in mind for the house, only to find that zoning restrictions wouldn’t let him build his dream home in Moscow — the Capital Hill Residence was finally unveiled in 2018.

Like many of Zaha Hadid’s structures, the spaceship-like home is defined by fluid geometries emerging from the landscape.

Capital-Hill-Residence-Home-designed-by-Zaha-Hadid
Image courtesy of The OKO Group

The house spans over four levels, with the living room, dining room, kitchen, and entertaining spaces being located on the first two floors, that also provide access to the indoor swimming pool, and leisure facilities.

Capital-Hill-Residence-Home-designed-by-Zaha-Hadid
Image courtesy of The OKO Group
Capital-Hill-Residence-designed-zaha-hadid-interior
Image courtesy of The OKO Group

Capital Hill Residence sits on a north-facing hillside and consists of two main parts – a lower area which sits among pine and birch trees — and an upper part which rises 72 feet above the ground to give its residents spectacular views of the Russian forested landscape.

Unlike any other of Zaha Hadid’s structures, which were almost exclusively set in urban environments, the Capital Hill Residence is a neo-futuristic building that stands out in the thick forest of trees it’s surrounded by.

More architectural wonders:

Rare Frank Lloyd House Hits the Market in Nevada; Asks $500K
UFO-Shaped Palm Springs House (Once Owned by Bob Hope) Finally Finds a Buyer
Introducing North America’s Tallest Home, the Falcon Nest
This 4-Floor Penthouse Atop San Francisco’s ClockTower Asks $6.3 Million, Comes With the Actual Clock

Source: fancypantshomes.com

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Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis might be best known these days for his “war on woke.” He’s generated daily headlines for his “Don’t Say Gay” bill in schools, his battles against Disney, and the travel advisories issued against the state by the NAACP and LGBTQ organizations.

However, his housing policies haven’t generated nearly as much attention.

After months of fueling rumors, DeSantis formally announced his bid for the U.S. presidency on Wednesday. What would that mean for the housing market if he wrests the Republican nomination from real estate mogul and former President Donald Trump and wins the general election in 2024? (Currently, Trump has a sizable advantage in the polls among likely GOP voters.) Realtor.com® looked at the No. 2 Republican contender’s housing-related priorities during his four-plus years as governor of the Sunshine State for clues.

“His experience as the governor of Florida has certainly exposed him to the housing market and its issues,” says Sean Snaith, director of the Institute for Economic Forecasting at the University of Central Florida in Orlando. “He’s intimately familiar with the shortage of housing that has plagued our state.”

Florida experienced tremendous growth during the COVID-19 pandemic as companies expanded and legions of folks moved to the Sunshine State. It was the nation’s fastest-growing state last year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. The median home list price in Florida shot up 42%, to about $468,000, from April 2020 to April 2023, according to Realtor.com data. Rental prices also surged throughout the state during the pandemic.

This year, DeSantis has passed bills geared toward creating more housing, providing assistance to first-time buyers, as well as restricting international buyers from certain countries from purchasing real estate in Florida. The government has also responded to the devastation wrought by hurricanes and flooding by making changes to Florida’s property insurance industry.

The legislature has also been forced to confront the state’s affordability challenges. For years, the state had typically been reallocating the money from its affordable housing trust fund to other projects. In 2021, the legislature agreed that a third of that money will be spent on housing, while the rest can go to other priorities.

Democrats have blasted diverting the money away from housing during such a severe real estate shortage.

DeSantis and Trump will have plenty of competition from other Republicans vying for the nation’s highest office. Former South Carolina Gov. Nikki Haley announced her candidacy in February. South Carolina Sen. Tim Scott threw his hat in the ring this week, and former New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie is expected to enter the fray. New Hampshire Gov. Chris Sununu and former Vice President Mike Pence are also likely to run.

Whoever wins the 46th presidency—from either side of the aisle—will have a major challenge in tackling the housing crisis.

“It would have to be concerted efforts from all levels of government,” says Snaith. “We need to help expedite the process for developers from going from paper to getting these housing units off the ground.”

DeSantis tries to create more affordable housing

In March, DeSantis signed an affordable housing plan that invested more than $700 million to provide low-interest loans to developers building workforce housing in Florida, down payment and closing costs assistance for first-time homebuyers, and the redevelopment of underused properties near military installations.

The Live Local Act is also expected to make it easier to convert commercial buildings into housing by bypassing local zoning boards, building height requirements, and local density regulations.

While superseding local authorities and zoning regulations can lead to a strain on local infrastructure—such as more traffic, crowding in schools, and other growing pains—the housing shortage “trumps” these concerns, says Ken Johnson, a real estate economist at Florida Atlantic University in Boca Raton.

“This will start to increase the supply of housing rather rapidly. We just need units built right now,” says Johnson. “We are still in a rental crisis here.”

He was less enthusiastic about the $100 million provided for down payment and closing costs assistance. The money will fund the Florida Hometown Heroes Housing Program, which the governor announced the creation of last year. It’s geared toward eligible first-time buyers who work in critical professions such as law enforcement, firefighting, education, health care, and child care, and active military or veterans, among others.

“There’s not enough money behind them to make a dent,” says Johnson.

The Live Local Act also prohibits towns and cities from enacting rent controls.

The state of Florida is short about 444,000 affordable and available rental homes for extremely low-income renters, according to the National Low Income Housing Coalition.

“It has been more pocket change than real substantial solutions to the problem,” says Jack McCabe, who runs an eponymous housing consultancy in Southern Florida. “Seven hundred eleven million dollars looks like a lot of money, but the truth is it could take billions and billions of dollars to correct the problem.”

Restrictions on who can buy homes in Florida

Last week, DeSantis signed a bill to prohibit many Chinese citizens who aren’t legal U.S. residents from purchasing real estate in the state of Florida. The bill also bans citizens from six other countries—Russia, Iran, North Korea, Cuba, Venezuela, and Syria—from buying farmland that is located within 10 miles of military sites and critical infrastructure.

In addition, as of July 1, the new law will require some Chinese nationals to register the real estate they already own and whatever they buy with Florida’s state government.

The law has been criticized by Democrats, Asian American leaders, and some real estate professionals.

“The law is very restrictive,” says Dan Lionetta, president of the Asian American Real Estate Association of America, Greater Jacksonville Chapter. He is also a mortgage lender at Movement Mortgage. “We are certainly not in favor of the law and anyone, from any country, being limited regarding purchasing real estate.”

Real estate economist Johnson believes a bill like this “distorts” the market by dictating who can and who cannot buy.

“It will negatively impact price, although I think it will be marginal,” says Johnson. “We’re simply cutting the demand for real estate.

Tackling Florida’s hurricane and flooding issues

Last year, DeSantis signed a Republican bill to prop up Florida’s property insurance system as many companies have gone out of business and others are struggling due to the extensive damage wrought by storms and flooding. The bill raises costs for some homeowners while providing tax rebates for residents affected by Hurricanes Ian and Nicole. It will also force some homeowners out of receiving coverage from the state-created insurer.

As a result, many Floridians expect their already high flood insurance premiums to double this year.

“Many people are being forced to sell their homes and move,” says housing consultant McCabe.

However, the governor has also signed bills into law to give homeowners a break. One prevents insurers from refusing to cover homeowners if their roof is less than 15 years old. And in the wake of the Surfside condo collapse, buildings that are three stories and higher must be inspected after 30 years and then receive additional inspections every 10 years. Buildings that are within 3 miles of the coast must start undergoing inspections after 25 years.

The governor also approved setting $150 million aside last year to be used for grants for homeowners who want to retrofit their homes to be more resistant to hurricanes.

“The overall impact [of a DeSantis presidency] is hard to say right now,” says Johnson. “It’s a toss-up.”

Source: realtor.com

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As the old saying goes, “In real estate, location is everything.”

You may not know much about REITs, but you might want to consider one of them as a career. They’re great for people who like real estate, enjoy making money, and need consistent work hours.

Real estate investment trusts (REITs) are companies that were formed to make it easier for individuals to invest in real estate.

Want to know what the top paying jobs in Real Estate Investment Trusts are in 2022?

Well, take a look at this list of 25 best paying jobs for real estate investment trusts and see if you can find one that sounds perfect for you. In addition, each job features information about how much each job pays, what you can expect on the job, any job training needed, and other fun facts!

If you are looking for your next career, this article will give you plenty to think about as well as potential opportunities that may be available to you.

Is real estate investment trusts a good career path? Find out the best paying jobs in real estate investment trusts (REITs). The results may surprise you. Start making more money today.

What are real estate investment trusts?

Real estate investment trusts, or REITs, have become an increasingly popular way for investors to get involved in the real estate market. REITs allow people to invest in large-scale real estate projects without having to purchase and manage the properties themselves.

In addition, REITs offer shareholders a wide range of benefits, making them a great choice for those looking to invest in this growing market.

How do real estate investment trusts work?

Picture of a spiral notebook with REIT to explain how do real estate investment trusts work.

A REIT is a type of company that owns and operates various types of real estate, and because they are exempt from corporation tax on profits generated through rental income and the sale of rental properties; They are a very attractive option for high-earners.

They pile investors’ money together and invest in various commercial real estate, which increases returns over time. In addition, REITs are generally owned by the general public, and they invest in real estate assets.

Lastly, they make a profit through investments or leasing; a return on investment is typically received as a dividend. Real estate investment trusts are similar to mutual funds in that they hold investments, distribute dividends, and pay taxes.

Is a real estate investment career good?

Animated character as an employee asking is a real estate investment career good.

Real estate investment companies are a great place to start a career in real estate.

Real estate investment trusts (REITs) are one of the most productive industries today. They provide steady and consistent growth, as well as good job opportunities with high salaries. Careers in real estate that can lead to better-paying jobs include appraisers and investment bankers.

Best paying jobs in real estate investment trusts

Picture of an executive holding hundred dollar bills for the best paying jobs in real estate investment trusts.

The market for REITs has grown rapidly in recent years, with the total value of REITs reaching almost $3.5 trillion by the end of 2021 (source).

There are many different jobs in the real estate investment trust industry that come with a variety of salaries. The best paying jobs are reserved for the C-level executives:

  • Chief Executive Officer: The CEO is the highest-ranking executive officer in a company and is responsible for making major decisions that affect the business. CEOs in the REIT industry earn an average salary of $468,000 per year.
  • Chief Financial Officer: The CFO is responsible for financial planning and reporting, as well as managing relationships with banks and other lenders. CFOs in the REIT industry earn an average salary of $341,000 per year.
  • Chief Operating Officer: The COO is responsible for overseeing all day-to-day operations of a company. COOs in the REIT industry earn an average salary of $325,000 per year.

Followed by the attorney, which is one of the highest-paying professionals in real estate investment trusts.

Now, we are going to list the most lucrative jobs in REITs. Then, you can decide… is real estate investment trusts a good career path for me.

The higher paid jobs will come with more education needed and years of experience.

1. Real Estate Attorney Jobs

Real estate attorneys are in high demand for their knowledge of transactional law and contractual issues. They work on a variety of deals involving the purchase, sale, or leasing of real estate. As such, they provide critical legal support to the real estate investment trust (REIT) industry.

Real estate attorneys license in their state to practice law. They can prepare contracts, advise clients on purchases and investments, review documents, represent mortgage lenders at closing, or simply provide legal counsel without the requirement of an attorney’s license.

Consequently, real estate attorney jobs are an excellent opportunity for those looking to work in the REIT industry.

Real Estate Attorney: well over 6 figures (average)

2. Real Estate Developer

Real estate developers are typically involved in the design, construction, and marketing of properties. They are also involved in land assembly and subdivision, zoning regulation, and the establishment of building codes.

Builders are involved in all aspects of the development process, from acquiring land to constructing buildings. Promoters are responsible for finding investors and marketing completed projects. In both cases, real estate developers may work either on their own or with a team of partners.

A developer obtains land and constructs assets for sale, while also selling them off when they become old enough to be sold again.

Real Estate Developer Salary: over 6 figures (average)

3. Director of Real Estate and Facilities

The Director of Real Estate and Facilities is responsible for a variety of tasks within the department. These tasks include, but are not limited to, the following:

  • Acquiring new properties
  • Negotiating leases
  • Overseeing property management
  • Maintaining the company’s physical infrastructure
  • Developing and implementing strategic plans

A director of real estate and facilities is a key role in any company that deals with real estate investment trusts (REITs). Therefore, this position often leads to advancement opportunities, making it an excellent career choice for those interested in this growing field.

Director of Real Estate and Facilities Salary: $130,000 a year (average)

4. Director of Acquisition

Directors of acquisitions in real estate investment trusts are responsible for finding new properties to invest in for the company.

Typically, they work with their analysts to conduct due diligence on potential investments and analyze the risks and rewards involved in order to provide a recommendation to their superiors.

The acquisition team is responsible for finding investment opportunities for the company, which can be traditional real estate assets or creative ideas that can become a business. They are constantly on the lookout for new and innovative opportunities that can help bolster the company’s growth.

Director of Acquisition Salary: $125,000 a year (average)

5. Real Estate Agent

As a licensed real estate agent, you would help clients buy, sell, and rent properties. In order to become a real estate agent, you must pass an exam that covers topics such as contracts, ethics, and state laws. You would be responsible for understanding the real estate market and helping your clients make informed decisions about their property transactions.

In the case of REITs, you must be a commercial real estate agent who are in charge of dealing with important financial data. They need to know about the internal rates of return, gross rent multipliers, and capitalization rates in order to do their job effectively. In order to become a commercial real estate agent, you will need some background in business and finance. This knowledge will help you understand your client’s needs and better serve them.

Unlike most professions, the more business deals you close as a real estate agent, the better your pay is. Furthermore, many agents work on commission-based pay, so it’s important to be knowledgeable about the market and have a strong sales skill set.

Agents who are successful can make much more than this amount; however, those who are just starting out may make less until they gain experience and build a client base.

Real Estate Agent Yearly Commission: $100,000 a year (average)

6. Investor Relations Manager

An Investor Relations Manager is responsible for managing the relationship between a company and its investors. They must be able to quickly understand complex financial information and communicate it in a clear and concise way. Additionally, they are responsible for communicating the company’s financial performance and strategy to investors.

They are also responsible for updating quarterly reports on the investor’s online dashboard. This can be a high-stress job because you must keep your investors happy especially during a market downtrend.

Investor Relations Manager Salary: $100,000 a year (average)

7. Project Manager

Project managers are responsible for ensuring that a project is completed on time and within budget.

They work in teams to make sure that all aspects of the project are completed. Thus, they must have strong organizational skills. They also typically have experience in leading and coordinating teams.

This is a highly lucrative job for those building new assets for a REIT. The highest-paid 10 percent earned more than $187,000, while the lowest-paid 10 percent earned less than $59,000.

Project Manager Salary: $90,000 a year (average)

8. Accounting Manager

They do this by preparing financial statements, maintaining accounting records, and overseeing the work of accountants and bookkeepers. In order to qualify for this position, you will need at least a bachelor’s degree in accounting or a related field, as well as several years of experience in accounting or bookkeeping.

However, with experience and expertise in the field, it is possible to earn much more than that. Those who work for real estate investment trusts (REITs) can expect to make even more money.

Accounting Manager Salary: $90,000 a year (average)

9. Asset Managers

Asset Management is a process that oversees the operational and financial work of a portfolio of assets. This includes tasks such as budgeting, forecasting, reporting, and analyzing data to make sure the asset is performing well.

As they are responsible for managing the portfolio assets in the real estate investment trust (REIT), they must expect a higher stress job. In addition, their job entails working with other departments in the company, such as accounting, acquisitions, development, and finance.

Asset Managers Salary: $89,000 a year (average)

10. Construction Supervisor

A construction supervisor oversees all aspects of a construction project, ensuring that it is completed on time, within budget, and to the required standard. This position requires a great deal of experience and knowledge in the field, as well as strong leadership skills.

They make sure that everything runs smoothly! Speficially, all the necessary equipment, materials, and supplies are ordered and on-site when they are needed. They also check the quality of the work as it is being done; making sure projects are constructed in accordance with contract documents, standards, codes, and policy.

In order to become a construction supervisor, you need only a high school diploma or GED. However, five years of experience in yard operations or equivalent education and experience is preferred.

Construction Supervisor Salary: $89,000 a year (average)

11. Investment Due Diligence Analyst

An investment due diligence analyst is responsible for conducting an extensive analysis of potential investments for a real estate investment trust. They work with the team to identify opportunities, underwrite deals, and make recommendations. The role is essential in helping the team make sound investment decisions that will benefit the company in the long run.

This job is a key player in the real estate investment trust (REIT) industry.

To be successful in this role, you’ll need experience with REITs or a national brokerage, as well as excellent quantitative skills including the ability to build real estate valuation models and distribution waterfalls.

Investment Due Diligence Analyst Salary: $80,000 a year (average)

12. Financial Analyst

The most common role of a financial analyst is assessing a company’s current and future financial health, which may include issuing stock recommendations, forecasting earnings, and providing risk analysis. Financial analysts may also work with investment bankers to identify new investment opportunities.

However, salaries can vary significantly depending on the size of the company, the city in which you work, and your level of experience.

Financial Analyst Salary: $80,000 a year (average)

13. Business Acquisition Analyst

An acquisitions analyst is responsible for reviewing potential investments and determining the risks and rewards associated with commercial property.

The analysis will include both macro-level information, such as the political and economic environment, as well as more fine-tuned data that is specific to the investment itself.

Many in this role have found a business degree to be well worth the cost.

Director of Acquisition Salary: $78,000 a year (average)

14. Commercial Property Manager

Property management is a growing field, as the demand for individuals who can manage both residential and commercial properties increases. The goal of property managers is to ensure assets are kept in good condition and are appealing to owners and tenants alike.

Real estate investment managers have a very important job, as they are responsible for meeting the needs of property owners, tenants, and investors.

Primarily, they oversee maintenance and repairs, collect rent, screen tenants and enforce lease agreements. They also may negotiate leases, recommend improvements to the property, and coordinate with contractors.

Commercial Property Manager Salary: $75,000 a year (average)

15. Real Estate Photography

Real Estate photography is a specialized field within the photography industry. As such, many photographers start their own businesses in this area.

In order to be successful, it’s important to have strong marketing and business skills. Your portfolio should showcase your best work and be tailored to the types of properties you will be photographing. Additionally, you may choose to offer additional services such as virtual tours or video production.

A real estate photographer would work closely with the marketing team.

Real Estate Photographer: $70,000 a year (average)

16. Marketing Coordinator

Marketing coordinators are responsible for developing and executing marketing campaigns.

They work with the advertising department to come up with ideas. Then, working with the rest of the company to make sure that those campaigns are executed properly. They create all marketing materials, track campaign results, liaise with outside vendors, and organize events.

Given the regulations around REITs, it is highly important that the marketing communications follow the investment directives from the SEC.

Marketing Coordinator Salary: $67,000 a year (average)

17. Maintenance Supervisor

A maintenance Supervisor is a position that requires managing and overseeing the work of others. Thus, ensuring work is completed in a timely, efficient and safe manner.

They are responsible for making sure all company policies and procedures are followed, as well as any legal requirements or safety regulations. Additionally, they manage budgets and expenses, as well as staff.

The ideal candidate will have experience in the property management or construction industries, as well as supervisory experience. A degree in engineering, architecture, or a related field may be beneficial.

Maintenance Supervisor Salary: $65,000 a year (average)

18. Property Appraiser

Appraisers are typically called in when there is a need to settle a dispute about the value of a piece of property, or when someone is buying or selling a home and needs to know how much it is worth.

Most states require that you be licensed in order to practice as an appraiser. The job outlook for appraisers is good; the Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts that employment will grow by 4% from 2020-2030 (source).

Property Appraiser Salary: $60,000 a year (average)

19. Leasing Consultants

Leasing consultants are responsible for meeting and greeting clients, touring potential tenants through a property, and helping them decide whether or not to lease it. They must be knowledgeable about the property they are showing, as well as about the local rental market.

Consequential, this is a good job for someone who is able to close deals, so being persuasive is important.

They should also be outgoing and comfortable working with people from all walks of life. A high level of professionalism is essential, as is attention to detail. Leasing consultants typically earn commissions based on the number of leases they sign, making this a commission-based job.

Leasing Consultant Salary: $50,000 a year (average)

20. Commerical Real Estate Intern

Commercial real estate internships are a great way to get started in the commercial real estate industry. Many internships will give you the opportunity to work with the CEO/COO and learn about all aspects of the business.

In most internships, you will gain vast knowledge while working with every department within the company.

Consequently, interns often have the chance to work with different teams and learn about all aspects of commercial real estate. This is a great way to gain experience in the field. Plus you will get a well-rounded working experience and the opportunity to build your network.

You must be a college student who is detail-oriented, self-starter, creative and strategic thinker in order to be considered for any real estate internship.

Commercial Real Estate Intern Salary: unpaid to $20 an hour

(Source for All Salary Information: Glassdoor.com)

Bonus = Real Estate Investors

Real estate investors use a variety of strategies to make money in the real estate market. Some invest a minimal amount of money, while others take on high-risk ventures.

In order to be successful, investors must be well-versed in real estate investment strategy and have extensive knowledge of the market.

This is why REITs are so popular with most investors. It allows a hands-off approach to real estate investing. Yet, still profit in the real estate appreciation and rental income.

Real Estate Investors Salary: varies on the amount of money invested but most want at least a 6-10% return

What real estate investment jobs are entry level?

Real estate investment is one of the best paying jobs in the world. The job offers a lot of opportunities for growth and allows you to work with different types of people.

It also has a relatively low barrier to entry, making it a great option for those who are starting their careers.

Most people in real estate started at the bottom and worked their way up the corporate ladder with hard work and persistence.

What are the minimum requirements for entry level real estate jobs?

The industry is growing rapidly and there are many different opportunities for those looking to enter the field. However, it’s important to note that entry-level jobs in this field come with specific skill sets and education requirements.

Most require at least a college degree if not at least 5 years of hands-on experience. One of the best places to start without any qualifications and education is as a leasing consultant

If you want to progress quickly in your career in real estate, consider taking a chance on one of the best paying jobs in REITs listed here. In fact, there are many jobs available in real estate investment trusts.

REITs – Which real estate investing job looks appealing to you?

Picture of a sign that says jobs for you for the best real estate investing job for you.

The REIT industry is constantly growing, and with that comes new opportunities for a lucrative career path.

Many of the roles in a REIT are highly challenging, pay well, and are respected by investors. Many people work together as a team to build new projects, manage existing projects as well as work to finance them.

There are plenty of benefits of spending time researching this industry and finding the job for you.

In fact, it is an exciting and rewarding career!

Know someone else that needs this, too? Then, please share!!

Source: moneybliss.org

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Are you thinking of designing a smoking haven in your house or apartment where you can retreat to after a long day?

Not only can a personalized smoking room be helpful in reducing the exposure of smells and smoke throughout the rest of your living space but creating your very own smoking sanctuary can also add character and a high-ly unique style to your residence (see what we did there?)

Plus, you get your own personal space to dedicate to an activity that brings you joy — you get an extra thumbs up from Marie Kondo for that.

While brainstorming your in-home dream lounge, there are a few key points to keep in mind.

First, you will want to decide on the best location for your set up. Second, you’ll want to focus on the furniture and décor of the room.

Lastly comes the selection of smoking accessories. These are often the most important in that they are what you’ll be passing around and consuming with, ultimately completing your overall smoking experience. 

Location, Location, Location

Choosing an appropriate location for your smoking room is half the battle.

Whether you plan to designate an entire room, basement, attic, or shed, you will want to make sure that the location you choose is not exactly smack dab in the middle of your main living space.

Smoke has a tendency to spread quickly through a home (and, let’s face it, weed stinks), so allocating a relatively remote place will grant smokers the freedom to enjoy their cannabis consumption without any negative impact on non-smokers, or additional members of your family or household. 

designing your smoking room

If ventilation is of any concern, you can consider installing an exhaust fan (which can be as simple as a wall mount, or as complex as a professional-grade air ventilation system).

Let’s be honest, we’ve all spilled, or been in a room where someone has spilled, bong water and it is less than pleasant (to say the least), especially when not cleaned up quickly or properly.

To get ahead of these, you can use candles, incense, or essential oil diffusers to reduce unwanted odors while also creating a relaxing ambiance. Otherwise, incorporating trees and large plants in and around the room will help to clean and recycle the air while also adding to the overall atmosphere.

Furniture & Decor

When laying out your smoking room, you’ll want it to match your own personal style.

Whether you decide to design a psychedelic, retro, modern, or traditional stoner-style space, there are a few key things to consider in regards to furniture and décor. 

Comfortable seating is an absolute must. Floor pillows and bean bag chairs are often a rather cheap and comfortable way to provide seating for multiple people, while also making it easy to add, reduce, or rearrange your seating set up.

Hanging chairs are more costly, but also provide a more unique look, while a loveseat, futon, or couch can always do the trick and can seat several people at a time for those larger sessions or parties. 

designing your smoking room

By hanging some colored LEDs or black lights around the room, you can reduce harsh lighting and help achieve a relaxing vibe in your area.

With black lights, you can add some reactive wall art, such as tapestries, decals, or paintings, and further set the mood. If you want a more energetic feel, look for warmer colors with hues of red, yellow, and orange with matching LEDs (which are very energy efficient). 

For a more chill and calming feel, utilize more soft colors like blue and violet. For the animal lovers out there, consider adding a fish tank with neon reflective fish!

Decorate the tank as you wish and enjoy zoning out on your new beautiful swimming companions. Just don’t forget to feed them and clean the tank regularly. 

Blankets and pillows of different fabrics will not only add to you and your guests’ comfort, but the different materials will also be fun to feel and cuddle up with when your sessions conclude.

Having different items around like musical instruments, games, speakers for music, picture/activity books on the coffee table, and other tactile objects will also add some fun to your smoking sesh, whether you are sparking up alone or with others. 

Smoking Accessories

Perhaps the most important feature of your newly designed room will be the equipment you use to consume.

As with most pieces you use to smoke, you’ll want to have somewhere to trash the ash, especially if you prefer to use rolling papers like our Rowll All-In-One Rolling Kit. 

It might seem obvious, but it isn’t uncommon for people to ash in whatever they can find, be it a water bottle, on their leg, or the floor. 

We recommend our Glow In The Dark Cup Ashtray, or our Silicone Ashtray. Silicone is great for those who prefer to smoke out of pipes or bongs, since you won’t break your glass against silicone.

If you are looking for a full setup, without having to shop around for each individual piece, you will be relieved to know that at everythingfor420.com/ we offer several bundles to cover everything you could need! 

Our Green Herbalist bundle, which includes rolling papers, hemp wraps, a rolling tray, 3-layer kief-catching grinder, and a beautifully crafted 10-inch tall Highlander Bong, is one of our best.

This bong features a tree percolator, diffused downstem, and an ice-catcher to filter, cool, and deliver the super smooth and super potent hits. 

There is an endless amount of ways to personalize your smoking room.

Once you have your location selected, the rest is simply personal preference. Whether you are the type to prefer black lights and glow-in-the-dark decorations, or a more simplistic vibe like tapestries and LEDs, the world of design is your oyster. 

Regardless of the style you choose to go with, it’s always fun to have a poster, book, chalkboard, or whiteboard that can serve as a stoner guest book where all who enter can leave their mark and keep the memories alive.

But, more importantly, making sure you get the highest quality smoking accessories on the market is where we come in. 

More tips for your fancy home

Top 4 Safety Hazards Around the House and How to Address Them
The Benefits of Massage Chair Recliners and Why You Should Get One for Your Home
3 Things to Consider When Buying an Air Filter for Your Home
How to Safely Light Artwork in Your Beautiful Home

Source: fancypantshomes.com