Throughout his career, Shuler has specialized in business strategy and systems renovation aimed at increasing productivity, reducing costs, and aligning operating units throughout his career. “My focus has always been on creating pragmatic IT solutions that support dynamic business growth, and I am ready to build strategic partnerships across all areas of Planet and help … [Read more…]
A “For Sale” sign is displayed in front of a home in Skokie, Ill., Sunday, April 14, 2024. On Thursday, Mat 23, 2024, Freddie Mac reports on this week’s average U.S. mortgage rates. (AP Photo/Nam Y. Huh)
LOS ANGELES — The average rate on a 30-year mortgage dipped this week to just below 7 percent for the first time since mid-April, a modest boost for home shoppers navigating a housing market dampened by rising prices and relatively few available properties.
The rate fell to 6.94 percent from 7.02 percent last week, mortgage buyer Freddie Mac said Thursday. A year ago, the rate averaged 6.57 percent.
This is the third straight weekly decline in the average rate. The recent pullbacks follow a five-week string of increases that pushed the average rate to its highest level since Nov 30. Higher mortgage rates can add hundreds of dollars a month in costs for borrowers, limiting homebuyers’ purchasing options.
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READ: Long-term US mortgage rate hits highest level in more than 20 years
Borrowing costs on 15-year fixed-rate mortgages, popular with homeowners refinancing their home loans, also declined this week, trimming the average rate to 6.24 percent from 6.28 percent last week. A year ago, it averaged 5.97 percent, Freddie Mac said.
Mortgage rates are influenced by several factors, including how the bond market reacts to the Federal Reserve’s interest rate policy and the moves in the 10-year Treasury yield, which lenders use as a guide to pricing home loans.
Treasury yields have largely been easing since Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell said earlier this month that the central bank remains closer to cutting its main interest rate than hiking it.
Still, the Fed has maintained it doesn’t plan to cut interest rates until it has greater confidence that price increases are slowing sustainably to its 2 percent target.
Until then, mortgage rates are unlikely to ease significantly, economists say.
After climbing to a 23-year high of 7.79 percent in October, the average rate on a 30-year mortgage stayed below 7 percent this year until last month. Even with the recent declines, the rate remains well above where it was just two years ago at 5.25 percent.
Last month’s rise in rates was an unwelcome development for prospective homebuyers amid the traditionally busiest time of the year for home sales. On average, more than one-third of all homes sold in a given year are purchased between March and June.
Sales of previously occupied U.S. homes fell in March and April as home shoppers contended with rising mortgage rates and prices.
READ: U.S. existing home sales down 1.9%
This month’s pullback in mortgage rates has spurred a pickup in home loan applications, which rose last week by 1.9 percent from a week earlier, according to the Mortgage Bankers Association.
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“May has been a better month for the mortgage market, with the last three weeks showing declining mortgage rates and increasing applications,” said MBA CEO Bob Broeksmit. “Rates below 7 percent are good news for prospective buyers, and MBA expects them to continue to inch lower this summer.”
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Source: business.inquirer.net
It’s officially off to the races for the best Memorial Day furniture sales of 2024. The holiday falls on May 27 this year, but many of the best early Memorial Day sales are already well underway and will last through the beginning of June. Lucky you.
So whether you’re looking for a large investment piece like a stylish new sectional, some new bedroom furniture, or some fun decor upgrades like a touch of rattan, a handsome lamp, or some lovely bedding—we’ve rounded up everything you need to liven your space. We’ve searched high and low to bring you the best trending Memorial Day furniture sales to shop this weekend—featuring some of AD’s favorite retailers like Burrow, Wayfair, and more.
We love Article for its minimalist, light, and airy Scandi-inspired nightstands, dining chairs, bed frames, sofas, and more—which is why it’s exciting to see the furniture retailer is hosting a Memorial Day sale where you can score hundreds off on new furniture for the summer.
Wayfair is great for those “I need a piece of furniture, quick!” moments. It’s also great for holiday sales. Right now, the major retailer’s offering up to 70% off during their 72 hour clear. That means you’ve got super limited time to take advantage of these major markdowns on investment pieces like a bed frame, loveseat, lounge chair, dresser, dining table, console table, and more.
If you’re looking to deck out your dining room, home office, living room, or any other space in your house with new pieces, you’ll definitely want to check out Castlery’s early access Memorial Day sale. Senior commerce editor Rachel Fletcher especially loved reclining on the Jonathan chaise sectional sofa, and you can get a Jonathan leather sofa that comes with an ottoman at a little over $200 off.
There are a few pieces of furniture you shouldn’t skimp on and one is definitely an office chair. You likely spend a lot of time in this chair, especially if you work from home, so it’s important to invest in a quality option. We’ve tested a few office chairs and one of our favorites is the Branch Ergonomic chair. Writer Terri Williams found the seat’s synchronous tilt and adjustable lumbar support made her sigh “ahhh” every time she sat down. You score this piece of luxury for 10% off using code MEMORIALDAY.
This is certainly one of the best Memorial Day furniture deals out there—right now, you can score a whopping 60% off sitewide with retailer Burrow. That means markdowns on sleek sofas, outdoor furniture, accent chairs, armchairs, side tables, bed frames, dressers, and so much more from a brand that’s a favorite among Clever staff. This is definitely one of the biggest sales on this list.
There is no better way to get summer started than by decorating your home to look like a dreamy Cape Cod cottage. Serena & Lily can help you a bit in that department with their Memorial Day sale, where you can find a variety of sweet deals on furniture and home decor.
Benchmade Modern is offering some serious furniture deals right now. Customers can take 20% off of custom couches and sectionals (and the rest of the site, which includes accent chairs, sleeper sofas, upholstered bed frames, and more). This brand specializes in a-touch-above-basic couches, meaning they’ll fit right into most spaces and differ slightly in size and depth.
Anyone looking to end their yearslong search for a couch (we see you), should stop and take a peek at what Homebody is offering. Right now until May 27, the brand is offering 10% off purchases with the promo code HONOR. In a world where buying a couch is…wildly overwhelming, the brand makes it easy with a few simple choices: custom couches; recliners; two-set, three-seat, and four-seat couches; armchairs; ottomans; and accessories.
Our contributor Rachel Kalichman called Interior Define’s Gaby sectional “an elegant and neutral piece that can fit any type of decor style.” Head to their site now for 20% off on orders $2,999 and below, and get 25% off orders $3,000 and over.
Bedding and loungewear: They are the finishing touch for any carefully curated room. Now’s your chance to try the bedding brand that both Oprah and commerce editor Audrey Lee gave their stamp of approval to. Save up to 55% during the brand’s “We made too much” extra inventory sale.We recommend stocking up on the cool-to-the-touch bamboo sheet sets.
If you’re already purchasing some new sheets, then you might as well snag a new mattress to put your sheets on. Luckily Saatva, one of our favorite mattress brands, is hosting a Memorial Day Early Access Sale where the more you spend the more you save on the retailer’s high-quality, eco-friendly mattresses. We’d recommend taking advantage of the Memorial Day deals to get the brand’s Loom & Leaf memory foam mattress, which writer Bailey Berg called the “most breathable, comfortable mattress” she’s ever tried.
Everyone’s beloved bed frame from Clever fave brand Floyd is offering 20% off sectionals and up to 30% off sitewide in anticipation for this Memorial Day weekend.
There are a lot of things you could stock up on during The Company Store’s summer sale, but we recommend looking into the indoor/outdoor pillow situation. Anyway, you can get up to 35% off comforters, pillows, and other bedding using code SUMMER24 and up to 30% off sitewide on everything else—no code needed.
If you want aesthetically pleasing cookware, look no further than the brand Our Place. This brand makes gorgeously hued pots, pans, and even a few kitchen appliances you wouldn’t hate leaving out in your living space. Commerce editor Audrey Lee personally loved the cast iron Always Pan, which you can get on sale now as part of Our Place’s 40% off Spring Sale
The Avocado Eco Organic mattress maintains a spot as one of our favorite mattresses that come in a box, and you can get the Eco now for $130 off as part of Avocado’s 20% off Memorial Day mattress sale. You can also get 10% off everything else on the site.
Zinus, who makes some of our favorite bed frames, is offering up to 45% off sitewide with the code MEMORIAL20. We’d use this as an opportunity to snag the Original Green Tea mattress, which is currently 20% off.
Ashley is offering customers a few hot deals during their Memorial Day Preview. You can find bed frames, dressers, dining sets, patio furniture, living room coffee tables, sofas, Tempur-Pedic mattresses, and just about anything else you’d need to outfit an entire apartment.
If you dream of backyard s’mores and cozy nights next to the fire, listen up for Solo Stove’s Memorial Day weekend weekend offerings. With up to 30% off sitewide, you can make your dreams come true.
The Clever staff has tried (and loved) a lot of Casper mattresses. In fact, we dedicated a whole story just to some of our favorites. One was the Nova mattress, which contributor Nora Taylor found offered the ideal balance of plushness and support. Though Casper doesn’t sell the Nova anymore, you can get the very similar Dream Max Hybrid mattress for 30% off as part of the brand’s Memorial Day deals.
Source: architecturaldigest.com
Welcome to Florida, where you’ll find some of the top college towns in the country! Each town featured below provides students and locals with everything they need to thrive in their higher education journey and their lives afterward.
Whether you’re a student-athlete looking for a sweet apartment in Gainesville or a newly tenured professor hoping to find the perfect house in Tampa, Florida has you covered. So, let’s dive into eight standout college towns in the Sunshine State that are sure to impress.
Population: 141,085 | Student population: 55,781 | Average 1-bedroom rent: $1,289
The University of Florida is known for its engineering, business, and health sciences programs. These majors attract students from all over the country. The engineering program is particularly strong, with a focus on innovation and research. Business students benefit from a comprehensive curriculum that includes entrepreneurship and international business. Health sciences offer a range of specialties, from nursing to public health, preparing students for various careers in the medical field.
The university has strong ties with the Gainesville community. Students often intern at local tech companies and hospitals, making real-world connections early on. UF Innovate is a hotspot for startups, offering students a chance to work on cutting-edge projects. Local hospitals like UF Health provide hands-on experience for health science students.
Apartments near University of Florida | Houses for rent near University of Florida
Population: 196,169 | Student population: 45,130 | Average 1-bedroom rent: $1,255
Florida State University excels in criminology, psychology, and music programs. These programs are some of the best in the nation. The criminology program is renowned for its research output and comprehensive curriculum. Psychology students engage in various research projects, gaining a deep understanding of human behavior. The music program, with its state-of-the-art facilities, nurtures talent and creativity, attracting students who are determined to carve out a career for themselves in the arts.
FSU has deep roots in the Tallahassee community. Many students work with state government offices and local non-profits, gaining valuable experience. The university’s proximity to the state capitol provides unique opportunities for political science and public administration students.
Apartments near Florida State University | Houses for rent near Florida State University
Population: 307,573 | Student population: 70,310 | Average 1-bedroom rent: $1,749
The University of Central Florida boasts top programs in hospitality management, engineering, and computer science. The hospitality management program is one of the largest and most respected in the world. Engineering students have access to cutting-edge labs and research opportunities. The computer science program focuses on emerging technologies, preparing students for careers in a rapidly evolving industry.
Orlando offers UCF students internships and jobs at theme parks, tech companies, and hospitals. These opportunities give students hands-on experience. Companies like Disney and Universal Studios collaborate with UCF, offering internships and job placements. The city’s growing tech scene provides numerous opportunities for engineering and computer science students.
Apartments near University of Central Florida | Houses for rent near University of Central Florida
Population: 49,248 | Student population: 19,096 | Average 1-bedroom rent: $2,400
The University of Miami is renowned for its marine science, law, and business programs. The marine science program leverages Miami’s coastal location for hands-on research. Law students benefit from a curriculum that includes international law and human rights. The business school offers various specializations, from finance to marketing, preparing students for a range of career paths.
Coral Gables offers students internships and networking opportunities. The university’s connections with local industries are strong. Students often find internships at major corporations, law firms, and marine research institutes. Miami’s legendary nightlife also provides numerous opportunities for those interested in the entertainment industry. These connections help students build a professional network that can be invaluable after graduation.
Apartments near University of Miami | Houses for rent near University of Miami
Population: 384,959 | Student population: 49,708 | Average 1-bedroom rent: $1,802
The University of South Florida in Tampa is known for its medical, engineering, and business programs. These areas of study are highly rated. The medical program includes a leading research hospital, providing students with hands-on clinical experience. Engineering students have access to advanced labs and collaborative projects. The Muma College of Business offers a variety of concentrations, including entrepreneurship and global business, equipping students with a broad skill set.
USF students secure internships at local hospitals, engineering firms, and corporations. The university’s partnerships with these institutions are beneficial. Tampa General Hospital is a key partner, offering internships and research opportunities for medical students. Local engineering firms collaborate with USF on various projects, giving students practical experience. Needless to say, the business community in Tampa is supportive of the USF student body.
Apartments near University of South Florida | Houses for rent near University of South Florida
Population: 97,422 | Student population: 30,155 | Average 1-bedroom rent: $2,389
Florida Atlantic University excels in ocean engineering, business, and nursing programs. These majors are among the best in Florida. The ocean engineering program focuses on marine technology and research. Business students benefit from a curriculum that includes finance, marketing, and management. The nursing program is known for its rigorous training and high pass rates on certification exams.
FAU’s connections with Boca Raton’s tech companies and hospitals provide students with internships and job opportunities. The collaboration is significant. Students often intern at local tech firms, working on innovative projects. Boca Raton Regional Hospital offers clinical placements for nursing students, enhancing their practical skills. The business community in Boca Raton works hand in hand with FAU, offering coveted opportunities for students to gain real-world experience before their four years are up.
Apartments near Florida Atlantic University | Houses for rent near Florida Atlantic University
Population: 14,329 | Student population: 2,652 | Average 1-bedroom rent: $1,140
Flagler College in St. Augustine is known for its stellar programs in education, business, and graphic design. The education program focuses on preparing teachers for diverse classroom settings. Business students receive a solid foundation in various disciplines, including accounting and marketing. The graphic design program nurtures creativity, with students working on real-world projects and building impressive portfolios.
The college has partnerships with schools, businesses, and design firms all around St. Augustine. Students gain practical experience through these connections. Education students often intern at local schools, gaining valuable classroom experience. Graphic design students collaborate with design firms, working on actual projects that enhance their portfolios and practical skills.
Apartments near Flagler College | Houses for rent near Flagler College
Population: 86,395 | Student population: 15,909 | Average 1-bedroom rent: $1,620
Florida Gulf Coast University in Fort Myers offers top programs in environmental science, business, and nursing. The environmental science program emphasizes sustainability and conservation, preparing students for careers in these fields. The nursing program provides comprehensive training, ensuring graduates are well-prepared for the healthcare industry.
FGCU students frequently intern at local environmental organizations and healthcare facilities. The university’s ties to these institutions are strong. Internships at environmental agencies allow students to apply their knowledge in real-world settings. Local hospitals and clinics offer nursing students practical experience. The business community in Fort Myers also supports FGCU, providing numerous opportunities for internships and full-time jobs after graduation.
Apartments near Florida Gulf Coast University | Houses for rent near Florida Gulf Coast University
College towns are qualified as towns or cities with at least one college or university and fewer than 450,000 people according to U.S. Census data. Average rental data from Rent.com in May 2024.
This is not a comprehensive list of all of the towns and cities in the state meeting those requirements.
Planet Home Lending is close to settling a consolidated class action suit lodged against it for allegedly failing to protect the personal identifiable information of customers during a hack in late 2023.
On May 13, a Connecticut federal judge issued a preliminary order approving a $2.42 million settlement between plaintiffs and the mortgage lender.
Plaintiffs of the suit could receive up to $2,000 from the settlement fund and class counsel intends to seek an award of a little over $800,000, documents show. The preliminary settlement was first covered by Law360.
An agreement on the material terms of the settlement was reached on March 29, “following a full day of arms’ length negotiation and mediation” between the two parties.
During the negotiations, Planet Home Lending provided proof it has implemented security measures following the data incident. The class of potential members is made up of 285,000 individuals.
Notice of the settlement will be sent out via email or postcard to class members who then have up to 30 days prior to the final approval hearing to opt out. No date for the final approval hearing has been set as of May 23.
A press representative for Planet Home Lending said the company is “pleased the matter has been resolved.”
“Regrettably, in today’s era, attacks of this nature are becoming more common and complex, and the mortgage origination and servicing sector has not been immune,” she added in a written statement Thursday. “We apologize for any concern the data breach may have caused our customers and for any difficulties encountered.”
Close to 300,000 Planet Home Lending customers were impacted by the cyber hack that took place Nov. 15, 2023. The intrusion was discovered the same day, the lender revealed previously.
In January, Planet Home Lending explained the hack occurred due to a vulnerability in its information security systems purchased from Citrix Systems.
The mortgage company noted prolific hackers LockBit used said vulnerability to bypass its protections and steal customer data, including names, addresses, loan numbers and financial account numbers. Some impacted customers have alleged that following the breach they saw an increase in spam emails and text messages.
Similarly, Mr.Cooper and Loandepot face numerous lawsuits after cyber hacks impacted their systems and exposed personal identifiable information of customers. As of May 2023, a consolidated lawsuit against Mr. Cooper in Texas is still pending.
Source: nationalmortgagenews.com
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Are you struggling to build your wealth so that you can live the life you want?
The problem may not be what you think it is.
If you are just working hard to earn more money, that is not enough.
You must also take the time to work on clearing money blocks within your brain.
The problem may not be what you think it is.
It is no secret that money blocks are abundance blocks.
How many times have you thought about how much cash you would need to get rid of your current financial situation?
If not, then it’s time to explore the fastest way out of this dilemma: removing all financial blocks.
Money blocks are on my mind today because–as any woman who wants to have a baby will tell you–the amount of time, money, and energy required to conceive, raise a child or even just get pregnant usually ends up being more than what one would typically invest in creative endeavors.
It’s important that we understand the blocks within us so that we can clear them out before they manifest into physical manifestations in our bodies.
There are infinite possibilities for new experiences–and with these opportunities come new ways to express ourselves creatively, spiritually, emotionally, or materially through whatever medium we choose.
The blocks for abundance are the most insidious because they are completely invisible, making them tough to spot.
You must learn how these blocks manifest in our lives and what can be done about them. Today, you will find some practical steps you could take to remove these blockages from your life if you find yourself struggling with this issue!
Enough of dealing with these painful and frustrating obstacles, let’s take simple steps on how to remove money blocks with ease.
Money blocks are negative subconscious beliefs about money that limit one from achieving conscious desires.
Money blocks are the result of years of subtle and sometimes not so subtle messages we’ve received about how to be “successful” in life.
They can play a role in limiting our personal abundance as well as others’. For example, if you believe that money is bad or that it will cause you problems, then you may find yourself reacting negatively whenever your income increases.
A person with money blocks may experience feelings of guilt about spending cash, or they may think that money is the source of their problems. When someone has a lot of these beliefs, it can be difficult for them to become independently wealthy because they are so limited by their subconscious thoughts and behaviors.
The concept of money blocks is fairly new. The term was coined in the early 2000’s, and describes a mindset that people have when managing their finances.
Money blocks are usually caused by fear or anxiety stemming from negative thoughts about money and how much we need to invest for our future needs.
Your money blocks hold up your abundance and ability to become financially free.
The good news is the more you work on changing the behaviors, the easier it will be to remove them.
Money is 80% behavior and 20% knowledge.
It’s important for people to understand how they can change their behavior because there is a lot of power in making better choices with regards to what we spend our time and energy on each day – especially when it comes down to money!
If you are wondering, what are some limiting beliefs about finances. Then, you probably struggle from a money block.
It may be something like “I won’t let myself do anything unless I have enough money,” or “I won’t allow myself to be vulnerable.” Such blocks can cause you to take on debt or make the wrong decisions, which is not beneficial.
If you have a money block, it is because you are holding onto an idea that does not serve your purpose.
There is an energy around money that often causes blockages within the body. It can be difficult to determine if you have a money block because there are so many different types of blocks. The most common type of money block is the abundance block, which occurs when too much energy and focus is placed on one area of life instead of others.
The best way to know if you have a money block is by taking time to meditate or do yoga for five minutes daily with your eyes closed.
If you feel uncomfortable or notice that the energy around money keeps changing, then it is a good sign that you have an abundance block.
There are many things that can manifest as a money block. Therefore, it is important to know what your personal money blocks might be so you can release them and move forward with financial abundance.
One way to break through the money blocks is by identifying problems with your current thought process.
There is a wide variety of ways to break through money blocks. One way is to start your own business and work hard until you make enough money that the blocks are no longer an issue. Another way is to focus on a different area of your life. You could try being part of a community where there are more opportunities for you to make money.
You have to follow through on the process.
You cannot make more income without having abundance blocks.
Until you shift your relationship with money, you will continue to create the same outcomes. This is because you conditioned yourself to believe the limits on the possibility of making or receiving income.
It is important that you recognize these financial blockages! Then, you can understand what they are doing in order to break them down and release the energy tied up in them.
Abundance blocks happen when we believe certain things and our reality reflects those beliefs. If you have a money block, your relationship with abundance is out of balance.
In order to get rid of the blocks in the system, it’s important to identify them and understand why they exist.
Many of us have obstructions around money that prevent them from reaching their goals, but there is one easy way to see if you have a money block.
Quickly reveal whether or not your energy is blocked by this area of your life. Then, you can come back and figure out removing money jams from your life.
Simply take the Money Blocks quiz.
The best way to identify if there’s a specific thing in your life or mindset that’s causing stress around finances would be to ask yourself these questions:
Answer Key – If the time or effort required is more than what you make in one year, then there’s your issue. You have a money block.
Answer Key – If the answer is yes, then you probably have a subconscious money block.
Answer Key – Everyone’s answers will be personal to your background, upbringing, thoughts, and experiences. The key is to recognize money obstructions and breakthroughs can slowly happen.
The problem with being broke (or feeling broke) is that it leaves you feeling like there’s never enough of what you need to get ahead, but the good news is – if you want to break through your money barricades, it’s actually pretty easy.
Money mindset jams are different for everyone, but there are some common types.
For example, if you find yourself feeling anxious or stressed when thinking about financial-related topics like paying off debt, it could be because you’re subconsciously avoiding something that will help your personal finance situation in the long run.
Let’s learn how to identify 10 common money blocks.
This is one of the most common stonewalls that you can experience and it can affect how you make decisions about your future.
Fear is a natural emotion, which is caused by the concept that money will cause you to act in certain ways. Thus, not allowing you to take risks and put yourself in danger.
Fear is often an emotion that comes with money, but this does not have to be the case. There is a lot of wisdom in being able to separate one’s emotions from financial decision-making.
For example, if you feel fear when you’re in a position to make an investment, then that could be because of your limiting beliefs.
Money avoidance happens in one of two ways.
The first way of money avoidance refers to the practice of intentionally decreasing the amount of money one spends. Money avoidance is achieved through various methods, such as not spending any money for a set period of time, using alternative currencies, or just living without money.
The second way of money avoidance is looking the other direction for anything that has to do with money. Money avoiders are people who have less money and a lower net worth than non-avoiders.
Money thoughts are so bad, so they sabotage themselves in an unconscious effort to have as little of it as possible.
You want to enjoy living life with intention.
A money block of regret is guilt that is inflicted on oneself in the form of an arbitrary amount of money.
If you find yourself feeling regretful or sad about something that happened in the past, then that may be a sign that you’re letting the past define your future.
Some examples include:
It is often difficult to admit this feeling because it often involves acknowledging that one is not living up to their own standards.
Money is a symbol of power and control. It gives people the ability to dictate what they need or want, but it also limits individual freedom and diversity by instilling fear in others about being unable to meet their basic needs.
Money is an important tool to be used for good or evil depending on how it is handled.
There are many ways to express your individuality without the use of money.
Another money chokepoint is the perception of the difficulty one has in earning income. All because of puritanical values about how to earn or spend money.
In order to earn money, we need to move away from the idea of earning and deserving. One way is through creative endeavors such as finding something you enjoy while you make extra income.
Earning money is harder than expected, but it’s not impossible. You can make a lot of cash- both online and offline- with the right skill set and a bit of hard work.
Many people despite knowing what is necessary for their financial well-being are stuck because they will not do what is necessary to move to the next level.
When our subconscious mind allows us to create a specific mindset and belief around money, it can have a detrimental effect on our relationships with other people and ourselves.
If you find yourself feeling lazy or unmotivated about doing anything related to money, it might be because you feel like there’s not enough time or you are too afraid to try.
Money status is the state of a person’s bank account balance, and specifically their net worth. Many people relate their money status to how they feel about their financial situation rather than the reality.
People with money status scripts believe their net worth determines their self-worth.
People may overspend in an attempt to convince others they’re financially successful.
This is often seen with those who are unemployed and trying not to look like it. On the flip side is those who have gained some wealth but want their friends and family members to think it’s even greater than what the reality is.
Is money everything?
If you find yourself feeling anxious or stressed when thinking about money-related topics like paying off debt, it could be because you’re subconsciously avoiding something that will help you to prosper.
Paying off debt is a huge financial milestone most everyone will experience in their money journey.
You have to determine why you are stopping yourself from the possibility of getting out of out debt.
Money worship is a type of idolatry, which can become addictive and destructive for many people.
Any type of money worship can have negative effects on the lives of those who practice it, as well as those around them. Common signs of money worship include hoarding, guilt about spending money, and anxiety over not having enough money.
Money worshippers believe that money will solve all their problems and bring happiness, which often leads them into financial ruin.
In short, money worship is the belief that you need more and more money to live a happy life. They also believe that they cannot have enough because they will never be able to afford all the things in their list of wants.
This is always questioned by people who are struggling financially.
Since everyone can be rich, many people mistakenly believe those money impediments are the only type of abundance block that exists. They actually think they are incapable of breaking the I’m broke cycle and will never find contentment.
Meanwhile, scarcity blocks can dictate how much money they make no matter how hard they try. You are stuck in the mindset of being constantly poor.
Money blocks are a common obstacle for anyone trying to make progress in their life.
In order to learn how to overcome these blocks, you need to identify what is stopping you from making progress. Then, take immediate action to overcome these blocks.
Money mindset will thwart your progress and are common problems that many people encounter.
They happen when you feel stuck in a situation because of your feelings about money, or your past experiences with money.
This is how do I stop money hindrances…
The subconscious is the part of the mind responsible for processing information and memories that are not currently being processed by conscious awareness. Also, it is the memories that remain after the conscious mind has processed the information.
The subconscious mind is the part of your brain that stores patterns and programs. These thoughts are created by society, from parental programming, and societal perceptions of what you can or cannot do.
You are unconsciously creating your own self-fulfilling prophecy.
This means you will continue to create the same outcomes until you shift your relationship with money.
There are different ways for shifting this relationship, such as through meditation or asking yourself what you want instead of what you don’t want.
Action Step: Write a list of the money blocks you struggle the most with and the factors that drive them. Before you make a financial decision, see if your money blocks are driving your thinking.
Awareness is one of the biggest challenges that we face. You are probably not aware of what’s happening and so they don’t do anything about it.
Awareness is crucial to long term financial success.
The most difficult part of finding your limiting beliefs is simply noticing they are there.
You need to be really honest with yourself.
When you are aware of what is happening, the root of the problem will become clearer and easier to address.
In order to create a reality that is in line with what you expect, awareness is key.
Action Step: Before you make a purchase, think about the real reason you are acting in this way. Keep a notebook of blocks you come across and how you dealt with them.
Money blocks are beliefs that prevent you from having the things that you want. In order to change this, you must reframe your thoughts.
Reframing means rethinking an idea, concept, or belief.
It is a cognitive process that changes the way you view something so that it fits better with your current beliefs. This allows for a more holistic perspective that is not bound by your subconscious mind or whatever you have been taught.
Reframe your beliefs by looking at them objectively and seeing where they come from.
When you have a money block, it can be difficult to see yourself as deserving of certain things because your limiting belief may say otherwise. Reframing your beliefs is key to accepting abundance.
Beliefs are just ideas in your head that aren’t true.
Action Step: You can choose to believe something or not; it’s up to you! Belief is only a thought, so you can use this power of belief to clear away money blocks.
Releasing your money blocks is a process that many people don’t think about.
It is not just releasing the blocks in one specific area, but releasing them throughout your entire being. It’s about releasing the blocks that are holding you back from your full potential and taking all of the money blocks out of your life.
It is very important to learn how to remove your money blocks. Then, you can actually move on with the game.
To remove a money block, close your eyes and focus on your breath for five minutes. Then, visualize all of the excess energy being removed from your body with your breath.
Money blocks are common in our lives, but can be removed with active awareness.
Write down your money blocks on tiny little pieces of paper to act as reminders that there is more abundance than we realize and will encourage us to take action towards achieving financial freedom.
Money is a means to an end. It should not give you meaning in life. In fact, it is a tool of motivation for achieving your goals and dreams.
Money can a good thing.
Money can buy comfort and security. However, some people have the wrong mindset of worshiping which derives from their desire for material wealth.
Throughout our lives, we are all taught to fear abundance.
Here are the most common ways in which this is taught:
These thoughts are often subconsciously triggered by our society and the messages that we have been taught throughout our lives.
This is why talking about money can be so difficult for some people!
You are afraid of the word “abundance.”
By understanding this concept, you will begin to better identify when your mind has an abundance block being triggered in relation to your personal finances or business plans.
In order to remove abundance blocks, it is important to understand what and where they stem from.
Learn the 10 secrets to gaining personal and financial freedom for you and your family, from two top marketing experts and entrepreneurs. Start to redefine what is possible in your life!
This book will help you build confidence, shift your mindset, and learn the tools to take control of your life and start on a path toward your own definition of freedom.
This is the #1 personal finance book I recommend all the time.
It is simple enough for anyone to comprehend. Plus, life changing for anyone’s personal finance situation.
This book is life changing. You can accomplish things in a much shorter time if you put your mind to it. Works for me, so I know it will help you.
This is an old classic personal finance book. While, yes, some of it is outdated. There are some sections that are timeless. If you are trying to break out of living paycheck to paycheck, getting out of debt, and changing your family’s history with money, then you need to read this book for a change in money mindset.
Be prepared for what it takes to become set for life. There is more to life than money and you need to learn your dream. But, it all starts with your mindset.
Money blocks are negative beliefs about money.
Sometimes, these beliefs cause you to feel like you don’t have enough or that what’s happening in your life is not good enough because of the financial situation you’re in.
There are plenty of causes financial blockages.
It doesn’t matter how much money someone has; they can always choose something new and get it if they make a conscious effort to see things differently.
Money is a topic that can be difficult to talk about.
Sometimes, people get embarrassed by the fact that they don’t know how much money they have, or they’re worried about not being respectful by the amount of money they have.
Remember…When you have money blocks, it is time to reframe your beliefs. You can use the power of positive money affirmations and meditation to clear these blocks.
Today, we offered tips on what you can do in order to move forward with your financial goals, including breaking the myths that surround money-related topics.
More importantly, did I answer the questions you have about this topic? Let me know in the comments if I can help in some other way!
Your comments are not just welcomed; they’re an integral part of our community. Let’s continue the conversation and explore how these ideas align with your journey towards Money Bliss.
Source: moneybliss.org
When looking for funding for your small business, there are plenty of types of loans to consider, including term loans. A term loan provides a borrower with a lump sum of cash that’s repaid on a fixed repayment schedule.
Term loans could be helpful for businesses looking to expand their business, buy more real estate, update equipment, or purchase more inventory in advance.
Read on to learn more on small business term loans, their pros and cons, and the different types of term loans available.
With a term loan, a person or business takes out a lump sum of money from a lender and then pays back the loan amount through regular, fixed-interval payments. These are often monthly payments but could be weekly, bi-weekly, or even quarterly.
Part of the payment would go to principal, lowering the remaining loan balance, and part would go to the lender in the form of interest, which can be a fixed or variable rate.
Term loans aren’t just used for small businesses, though. Mortgage loans, auto loans, and student loans are also all types of term loans.
Common uses of term loans for businesses include:
• Buying real estate or rehabbing property you already own (in that case, the real estate would likely serve as the collateral for the loan)
• Buying new equipment or repairing what you have (the equipment could serve as collateral)
• Restocking inventory, perhaps in anticipation of the holidays or another busy season
• Buying vehicles for work
• Meeting payroll and other expenses
• Covering employee wages
Small business owners may take out a term loan for a variety of purposes, which is one way to consider types of term loans. Another way is through the loan term’s length: short, intermediate, and long.
Payments may be higher with short-term loans compared to when the payback period is longer (depending upon how much the business needs to borrow). When considering what your business can qualify for and pay back with its available cash flow, this needs to be factored in.
Short-term loans typically have a length of less than one year. They may extend to 18 months. Businesses that don’t qualify for a line of credit might find this type of term loan helpful. Though these loans are typically easier to qualify for, they tend to have higher interest rates.
A short-term loan may come with a balloon payment, meaning the last payment is much larger than the rest.
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Intermediate loans typically have terms between one and three years. Because of their slightly longer payoff time, they may be an option if you’re hiring a new salesperson, for instance, and know there might be some lag time before they start bringing in revenue.
Like short-term loans, intermediate business term loans may also come with a balloon repayment structure.
Long-term loans typically have terms of five to 10 years, but they may go up to 25 years. They typically require collateral, such as real estate or equipment, and may come with lower interest rates compared to short- and intermediate-term loans.
Also keep in mind that long-term loans typically tend to be more difficult to qualify for, requiring proof of revenue and a solid credit history.
Recommended: Merchant Cash Advance for Bad Credit
After you’re clear about how much you need to borrow and for what purpose, then you can approach financial institutions to see what programs they offer, their interest rates, and their loan terms.
You’ll also want to find out what documentation you’ll need in order to apply, what collateral might be needed, and whether they can supply the funds on your timeline. Also, check to see what small business loan fees may apply.
Once you’ve evaluated all of the above factors, comparison shop multiple lenders and choose the lender that suits your needs. Applying for the loan is typically done online, but may be able to be done in person if you’re applying with a bank.
Rates and terms offered can vary based on the lender, your personal and business credit history, your time in business, and your financial health and history.
If you’re approved for the loan, you would sign paperwork and then be free to use the funds once disbursed. You’d then make regular payments based on the loan agreement.
Recommended: How to Check Your Credit Score for Free
Just as with any kind of loan, term loans have advantages and disadvantages.
Pros of term loans include:
• You may be able to borrow a large amount of money.
• Multiple types of term loan programs may be available when you look at different lenders.
• Interest rates are typically lower than credit cards, payday loans, and other short-term funding options.
• As you pay the term loan back on time, you can boost your business credit score.
Note: Check with your accountant or tax professional to see what tax benefits you may realize. Term loan interest may be tax-deductible.
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As with any financial product, there are downsides to consider, as well. Cons of term loans include:
• You may be entering into a long-term debt.
• The loan application process may take longer than you’d like.
• Some loans come with prepayment penalties, which means that you can’t prepay to reduce the amount of interest paid over the loan’s life.
• If your credit isn’t the best, the interest rates you’re offered may not be, either.
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Be sure to assess your business goals and lenders’ eligibility requirements as you choose the best option for your company.
Comparing the lenders’ terms helps you improve your chances of qualifying for a loan and saves you time by helping you avoid applying for options for which you’re not eligible. On top of that, you want to make sure you’re not overpaying when it comes to rates and fees, or endangering your business cash flow with a repayment schedule that’s too aggressive.
It’s helpful to examine these requirements side by side:
• Personal and business credit
• Time in business
• Annual revenue
• Collateral
• Down payment
• Personal guarantee
Also look at the fees side by side:
• Interest rate and APR
• Origination fees
• Late payment fees
• Early payoff penalty
Questions to ask:
• Are payments made daily, weekly, monthly, or quarterly?
• Are payments automatically deducted from a business bank account?
Many lenders have strict repayment terms, meaning you need to make sure you can meet those standards so you don’t overdraft your accounts, accrue late fees, and damage your credit score.
Recommended: Long-Term Small Business Loans
When applying for a loan, documents often requested by lenders include:
• Bank statements (personal and business)
• Tax returns (personal and business)
• Business legal documents, including licenses and permits
• Personal identification
• Business plan
• Revenue statements
• Accounts receivable reports
• Accounts payable reports
Because exact documentation required varies by lender and loan type (and whether collateral is involved), you’ll need to clarify what the lender you choose will need.
Also, before you go straight to loans, it can be worthwhile to explore business grants since those do not need to be paid back.
Recommended: What Are Small Business Grants?
When businesses seek funding, term loans are an option to consider. With a business term loan, the company borrows a certain amount of money in a lump sum and then pays it back in regular installments at either a fixed or variable interest rate. Terms can range from short (even under a year) to long (perhaps as long as 25 years), with the funds used for a variety of purposes.
If you’re seeking financing for your business, SoFi can help. On SoFi’s marketplace, you can shop top providers today to access the capital you need. Find a personalized business financing option today in minutes.
With SoFi’s marketplace, it’s fast and easy to search for your small business financing options.
A term loan provides borrowers with a certain amount of cash upfront in exchange for specific borrowing terms. Borrowers agree to pay their lenders a fixed amount over a certain repayment schedule. The interest rate can be either fixed or variable.
A small business loan of $50,000 from a bank that has to be paid over three years in monthly payments, with fixed interest.
They are short term, intermediate term, and long term.
SoFi’s marketplace is owned and operated by SoFi Lending Corp. See SoFi Lending Corp. licensing information below. Advertising Disclosures: SoFi receives compensation in the event you obtain a loan through SoFi’s marketplace. This affects whether a product or service is featured on this site and could affect the order of presentation. SoFi does not include all products and services in the market. All rates, terms, and conditions vary by provider.
Disclaimer: Many factors affect your credit scores and the interest rates you may receive. SoFi is not a Credit Repair Organization as defined under federal or state law, including the Credit Repair Organizations Act. SoFi does not provide “credit repair” services or advice or assistance regarding “rebuilding” or “improving” your credit record, credit history, or credit rating. For details, see the FTC’s website .
Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.
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Source: sofi.com
They say “Cash is king,” but these days, it seems like people are swapping cash for any of the many readily available digital payment options. Still, while it may feel like we’re headed for a cashless society, having a few dollar bills on hand is always a good idea.
The good news is that you have options for withdrawing cash. When you keep money in your checking account, you can quickly access your funds in several convenient ways, including by using a debit card and an ATM network. In this article, we’ll go over how to withdraw money from a checking account in three easy ways whenever you need cash.
Earn cash back with your debit card
Discover Bank, Member FDIC
One of the easiest ways to quickly withdraw cash from the bank is to use an automated teller machine (ATM). Not sure how to withdraw money from an ATM? Insert your debit card into an ATM and verify your identity by entering your 4-digit security PIN to access your funds. Remember that while most ATMs accept all cards, withdrawing from an ATM outside your bank’s network usually comes with a small fee, and your bank likely has a maximum daily limit on withdrawals from those machines.
Avoid paying ATM fees by only withdrawing cash from machines affiliated with your financial institution. Use your bank’s ATM locator to find machines closest to you, or look for no-fee ATMs at local retailers or gas stations. Discover® customers can access over 60,000 no-fee ATMs and easily find affiliated machines through the Discover mobile banking app.
If you receive a check from an employer or someone else, you can cash or deposit it in several ways. The easiest way to cash a check with no fees is to deposit it into your checking account and wait until the funds are available to withdraw the cash. With a Discover Cashback Debit account, you can do this from anywhere—usually in less than a minute—via mobile check deposit.
Wondering how to withdraw money from the bank immediately? You can “cash” that check—versus making a deposit and then withdrawing cash from your account—if your bank has a convenient brick-and-mortar location. Simply present the endorsed check and your ID to the teller, and you’ll be able to cash either the entire check amount or a portion of it. Warning: If that check doesn’t clear the issuer’s account, your bank will reverse the transaction.
Alternatively, you may be able to cash the check at the bank that issued it—although, depending on the bank, there may need to be enough money in the account to cover the check; you may also have to pay a fee. Some large grocery stores or retailers will exchange a check for cash, but again, you’ll likely have to pay a fee for the convenience.
Another way to receive cash immediately is to write a check for cash withdrawal against your checking account. In this case, you write “cash” on the payee line of one of your checks and hand it to a teller at your bank. You can also write a check to purchase a prepaid debit card, but keep in mind the fees associated with a prepaid card can be steep.
Depending on who you bank with and where you shop, you can also withdraw money from your checking account when you pay with your debit card in person. First, confirm which retailers and grocery stores offer cash back at checkout, then verify how much cash you can withdraw for no additional fee.
If you often shop with your debit card, consider a card that rewards you each month for your purchases. By using your Discover Cashback Debit card, you can earn 1% cash back1 on up to $3,000 of debit card purchases every month and have access to our network of more than 60,000 no-fee ATMs.
Digital payment methods like credit cards and mobile services may be growing in popularity, but cash will likely be a widely accepted form of payment for the foreseeable future. With a checking account and debit card readily available, you can withdraw cash from your bank account when you need it and avoid extra fees.
Make cash withdrawals even easier and stay free of extra fees when you open a Discover Cashback Debit account today.
Articles may contain information from third parties. The inclusion of such information does not imply an affiliation with the bank or bank sponsorship, endorsement, or verification regarding the third party or information.
1 See Deposit Account Agreement for details on transaction eligibility, limitations, and terms.
Source: discover.com
Interest rates hit a seven-week low last week, boosting the level of refinancing applications for the third straight week, but those for home purchases continued to recede. The Mortgage Bankers Association (MBA) said its Market Composite Index, a measure of mortgage application volume, increased 1.9 percent on a seasonally adjusted basis during the week ended May 17. On an unadjusted basis, the Index increased 1.1 percent.
The Refinance Index jumped by 7.0 percent compared to the previous week and was 21.0 percent higher than the same week one year ago. The refinance share of mortgage activity increased to 34.0 percent of total applications from 32.0 percent week-over-week. The Refinance Index has gained an aggregate of 17 points since April 25.
Purchasing activity declined for the second week, this time by 1.0 percent on a seasonally adjusted basis and 2.0 percent before adjustment. The index was 11.0 percent lower than the same week in 2024.
“The 30-year fixed mortgage rate declined for the third straight week, dropping to 7.01 percent – the lowest level in seven weeks,” said Joel Kan, MBA’s Vice President and Deputy Chief Economist. “Rates coming down from recent highs spurred some borrowers to act, with increases across both conventional and government refinance applications. VA refinances had a double-digit increase for the third consecutive week, although the current level of refinancing is still well below its historical average. Purchase activity continues to lag despite this recent decline in rates, down 11 percent from a year ago, as potential buyers still face limited for-sale inventory and high list prices.”
Highlights from MBA’s Weekly Mortgage Applications Survey
Source: mortgagenewsdaily.com