Month: May 2024

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With its picturesque main street, historic homes, and thriving community, Wake Forest, NC offers a unique blend of small-town charm and urban convenience. Residents here enjoy a close-knit community, top-rated schools, and an abundance of outdoor recreational activities. Whether you’re looking for a cozy bungalow or a spacious farmhouse, Wake Forest has something for everyone.

In this Apartment Guide article, we’ll cut to the chase, breaking down the pros and cons of moving to Wake Forest, NC. Let’s get started and see what awaits in this delightful southern town.

Pro: Charming Historic Downtown

Wake Forest has a charming historic downtown area, filled with quaint shops, cozy cafes, and local restaurants. Residents enjoy strolling along the tree-lined streets, admiring the well-preserved architecture, and soaking up the small-town atmosphere. The downtown area also hosts regular events and festivals, creating a vibrant and engaging community for residents to enjoy.

Con: Limited Public Transportation Options

One of the drawbacks of living in Wake Forest is the limited public transportation options, which can make commuting and getting around town more challenging for residents who rely on public transit. The town’s infrastructure is primarily designed for car travel, and alternative transportation methods may be less convenient.

 

Pro: Access to Nature and Outdoor Activities

Wake Forest offers easy access to nature and outdoor activities, with several parks, greenways, and recreational areas scattered throughout the town. Residents can enjoy hiking, biking, picnicking, and other outdoor pursuits in the beautiful natural surroundings. The abundance of green spaces provides a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life. Falls Lake Recreational Area is especially popular, offering residents hiking and biking trails, fishing and boating access, and beaches for swimming.

Con: Limited Nightlife and Entertainment Options

While Wake Forest offers a charming downtown and community events, it may have limited nightlife and entertainment options compared to larger cities. Residents seeking a bustling nightlife scene or a wide array of entertainment venues may find the town’s offerings to be more limited in scope.

Pro: Low Cost of Living

One of the significant pros of living in Wake Forest is the relatively low cost of living compared to larger cities in the Research Triangle area. Residents can enjoy affordable housing, lower taxes, and reasonable prices for goods and services, allowing for a comfortable lifestyle without breaking the bank.

Con: Traffic Congestion

As the population of Wake Forest continues to grow, traffic congestion has become a concern for residents. The increase in traffic volume during peak hours can lead to delays and longer commute times, impacting the overall convenience of getting around town.

Pro: Rich History and Heritage

Wake Forest is steeped in rich history and heritage, with several historical sites, museums, and landmarks that offer insight into the town’s past. Residents can explore the town’s historical roots and gain a deeper appreciation for its cultural significance at the Wake Forest Historical Museum.

Con: Limited Diversity in Dining Options

While Wake Forest has a variety of local restaurants, some residents may find that the town has limited diversity in dining options compared to larger metropolitan areas. Those seeking a wide range of international cuisines or gourmet dining experiences may have fewer choices within the town.

Pro: Growing Job Market

Wake Forest has a growing job market, with opportunities in various industries such as healthcare, education, and technology. The town’s proximity to the Research Triangle Park, Raleigh, and Durham area provides residents with access to a wide range of employment options, making it an attractive place for professionals seeking career advancement.

Con: Weather Extremes

Wake Forest experiences weather extremes, with hot and humid summers and occasional winter snowfall. Residents may need to adapt to the climate variations and prepare for the challenges that come with fluctuating weather conditions throughout the year.

Pro: Strong Sense of Community

One of the pros of living in Wake Forest is the strong sense of community that permeates the town. Residents often come together for various community events, volunteer opportunities, and neighborhood gatherings. This creates a tight-knit and supportive environment, where neighbors look out for one another and foster meaningful connections.

Con: Limited Cultural and Artistic Offerings

For residents who are passionate about cultural and artistic pursuits, Wake Forest may have limited offerings compared to larger cities. While the town has its own unique charm, those seeking a more robust cultural scene may find the options to be more limited in scope.

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The information provided on this website does not, and is not intended to, act as legal, financial or credit advice. See Lexington Law’s editorial disclosure for more information.

Even if you have bad credit, you can still get student loans. Most federal loans don’t require a credit check, which means you can borrow funds for education regardless of your credit history.

The Education Data Initiative found that the average cost of college is $36,436 per year in the United States. This includes tuition, living expenses, books and supplies. This isn’t the same at all colleges, and you can pay significantly less. The average cost for in-state tuition is $9,678, but over the years spent in school, these costs add up. Many people don’t have this kind of cash on hand, so many take out student loans.

If you have a bad credit score, you may want to know about student loans for bad credit, but you may have better options. Bad credit loans come with much higher interest rates, so it’s beneficial to research all of the options so you don’t graduate with more debt than necessary.

Today, you’ll learn about how to get student loans with bad credit as well as which options are right for you.

How to get a student loan with bad credit

If you have a bad credit history, you have two options if you want to take out a student loan. You can apply for federal student loans or find a cosigner for a private student loan.

  • Federal student loans are funded by the U.S. Department of Education, and they’re basically no-credit student loans since you can apply regardless of your credit history.
  • Private student loans are offered by a variety of nongovernment financial institutions, and they’re often limited to people with higher credit scores or cosigners.

Federal student loans are often the better option because they’re low-interest loans for students with no credit or bad credit. Private student loans have much higher interest rates, which makes them more expensive as a whole. In some cases, students may need to take out both of these loans, depending on the cost of their school.

In order to receive a federal student loan, you need to meet the eligibility requirements first. Some of the requirements include:

  • Proof of financial need
  • Proof of U.S. citizenship
  • Have a valid Social Security number
  • Enrolled in a degree or certificate program

Your financial aid is based on need. This is known as “need-based aid,” which uses a calculation to determine how much you can receive based on your Student Aid Index (SAI) and Expected Family Contribution (EFC).

In addition to United States citizens, DACA recipients may also qualify for federal student loans.

Federal student loans for bad credit

Federal student loans are an excellent option for many people, including those with bad credit, because they are based on financial need rather than credit scores.

You may be eligible for any of the following types of federal student loans:

  • Direct Subsidized Loans: These loans are available based on financial need, and they include the benefit of having the Department of Education pay interest while you’re enrolled in school as an undergraduate.
  • Direct Unsubsidized Loans: Unsubsidized loans are offered regardless of financial need, and they will accrue interest even when you’re enrolled in school. With these loans, you don’t need to show financial need.
  • Direct PLUS Loans: These loans are available to graduate students or the parents of undergraduates, and they are the only federal loans that require a credit check. You may still qualify with a bad credit score, but these have higher interest rates than other federal loans.
  • Direct Consolidation Loans: These loans enable you to combine all of your federal loans into a single loan, which can reduce the complexity of your payments.

Private student loans for bad credit

Your credit score matters if you want a private student loan. To apply for a private student loan, you can go through regular lenders like banks or credit unions. Unlike many other private loans, you may not be able to find bad credit loans for student loans.

One of the best ways to qualify for a private student loan with no credit or bad credit is to find a cosigner. A cosigner is someone with a good credit score, so the lender uses their score rather than yours. The cosigner needs to have a good credit score to help you qualify, and it’s important to note that if you miss your payments, it can harm both of your credit scores.

Federal loans vs. private loans

Federal student loans are typically the best option if you’re trying to figure out how to get a student loan with bad credit. You don’t need to find a friend or family member to cosign on the loan with you, and the interest rates are lower. If the school you choose is more expensive, you may need to take out a private loan in addition to your federal student loan.

It’s also beneficial to understand the difference between the interest rates. The average interest rate for fixed-rate student loans is between 4.8 and 12 percent. If the private loan has a variable interest rate, the average is between 5.9 and 15 percent. However, the average interest rate for federal student loans is only 5.5 percent.

For example, the average student loan debt is $37,787. If you took out a federal student loan for this amount and paid it off over the course of 10 years, it would cost a total of $49,211, including interest. That same loan could cost as much as $73,156 with a private student loan.

How FAFSA works

The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA®) is what student borrowers use to receive federal student loans. When taking out federal student loans, you need to fill out the FAFSA each year because it’s a needs-based program, so the amount may vary depending on different factors. They’re mainly looking at your personal finances and your family’s financial situation.

Each year, enrollment for the FAFSA opens on October 1st, and the deadlines are on the FAFSA website. Deadlines can vary by state and by college, so the site also lists additional information for every state.

How to improve your credit before applying for a student loan

You may need to take out student loans regardless of your situation, and one of the best things you can do is improve your credit score. When you have good credit, you can worry less about finding bad credit student loans and get better interest rates as well.

The following are some simple ways you can start improving your credit:

  • Make your payments on time
  • Pay off your debts
  • Pay off collection accounts
  • Keep your credit utilization low
  • Piggyback on someone’s credit as an authorized user

How to apply for bad credit student loans

Prior to applying for federal or private student loans, there are some steps you can take to make the process a little easier:

  1. Calculate the loan amount: Before applying, you should know how much you’ll need.
  2. Fill out the FAFSA form: Federal student loans are often the better choice, so it’s helpful to start here. If you need more, you can consider private student loans.
  3. Compare private student loans: If you need additional money from a private student loan, shop around. Compare the loans to find the lowest interest rate and best loan terms.
  4. Try to find fixed-rate loans: Variable interest rates mean the interest can change. A fixed-rate loan means that your payments will stay consistent.
  5. Assess repayment options: Understand your loan as best as possible. Look into the grace period and if there are enrollment restrictions on the loan. Some federal loans require you to be enrolled to qualify for deferred payments.
  6. Find a cosigner: Talk to potential cosigners before applying for private student loans for bad credit.

Alternatives to student loans for bad credit

Whether you get a federal student loan, a private loan or both, it’s always best to minimize your debt. Some alternatives to student loans you can consider include:

  • Working while attending school: Some schools cost less than others, especially in-state schools. You may be able to afford school by working and paying your tuition with cash.
  • Work-study programs: You may be able to do a work-study program, which allows you to work part-time for the school while attending. This gives you experience and a way to earn money.
  • Scholarships: There are many different scholarships out there. With some time and research, you can apply for different scholarships to help cover the cost.
  • Personal loans: Although these are also loans, this is a good option if you have some college savings and only need to borrow a small amount for a shorter period of time.

Check your credit before applying for student loans

Another way to work on your credit is to check your credit report for any errors harming your credit score. Inaccurate derogatory marks can usually be challenged and removed from your report.

Lexington Law Firm has a team of credit professionals who could help you address errors on your credit reports, and if you’re unsure of your credit score, you can get your free credit assessment today.

Note: Articles have only been reviewed by the indicated attorney, not written by them. The information provided on this website does not, and is not intended to, act as legal, financial or credit advice; instead, it is for general informational purposes only. Use of, and access to, this website or any of the links or resources contained within the site do not create an attorney-client or fiduciary relationship between the reader, user, or browser and website owner, authors, reviewers, contributors, contributing firms, or their respective agents or employers.

Source: lexingtonlaw.com

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It can be hard to make time to find friends as an adult, but it’s an important skill to keep practicing. After all, loneliness can impact your health as severely as smoking 15 cigarettes. With so much time spent online, we often forget the value of nurturing real-life communities. Fortunately, forming friendships in your neighborhood is an easy way to cultivate a sense of community. Simple gestures like sharing a meal together or going on walks together can greatly enhance your well-being. Feeling inspired to meet people in your community? Here are some great ways to help you make friends. 

Enjoying our content? Subscribe to our free weekly newsletter to get real estate market insights, news, and reports straight to your inbox.  

Join a Local Facebook Group

Almost every neighbourhood has a Facebook group, ranging from specific streets and community associations to apartment buildings. These groups are a fantastic way to stay updated on local news and events. Why not make a post introducing yourself? You could organize a community BBQ, a game night, or even a meet-up for fellow pet owners or parents.

Explore Your Neighborhood

If you’re working from home, consider switching up your environment by spending a few days at a local coffee shop or the library. Opt for workouts at a nearby gym rather than at home, and try to be more approachable by leaving your earphones off when you’re out and about. Joining a local running club can also be a fantastic way to meet people in a fun and active setting.

Leverage Friendship Apps

Who said apps are just for dating? Many apps now offer features to help you meet new friends. These can be especially helpful for specific groups like new moms or hobbyists. Just swipe right to start building your new circle of friends.

Welcome Other New Neighbours

Channel a touch of old-school charm when new neighbors move in by bringing over homemade cookies or fresh flowers, paired with a friendly note. Introduce yourself and share some local tips—it’s a simple, warm gesture that could spark a new friendship a few steps from your front door. 

Looking for a neighbourhood with a great sense of community? Give us a call today and our experienced agents can help find the best neighbourhood for you. 

Have questions about your local market?

Contact us today to speak to a Realtor in your area

Source: zoocasa.com

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In general, you should be skeptical any time someone says a future week will be more volatile. There’s really no way to know such things in advance, but this time is an exception.

While we can’t have any idea which direction rates will move next week, we can be sure that we’ll see more volatility.  Part of the reason is that the outgoing week would have been hard pressed to be any less volatile.  For rates, it was largely an aimless drift apart from two offsetting reactions to calendar events on Thursday and Friday (highlighted below).

Thursday’s sharper drop in bond yields followed a higher reading in the weekly Jobless Claims data.  This was one of the only economic reports that came out this week.  It showed an abnormally large change that resulted in the highest reading since August 2023.  While this could prove to be an outlier, it got the market’s attention in the morning.

Thursday afternoon saw relatively strong at the scheduled auction of 30yr Treasury bonds.  In general, strong auctions put downward pressure on yields/rates, all other things being equal.  The present example was worth roughly the same amount of improvement as the Jobless Claims data.

While the bond market was already pushing back in the other direction on Friday morning, the Consumer Sentiment data kept things moving in the same unfriendly direction.  This was not the usual case of stronger economic data pushing rates higher.  In fact, headline consumer sentiment was much lower than expected.

Rather, it was a component of the report that measures consumers’ inflation expectations.  This came in much higher than expected, and higher inflation is a much bigger consideration for rates at the moment.

Who cares what consumers think about inflation anyway?  It’s not like they decide the price of “stuff.”  True as that may be, consumer expectations play a role in purchasing behavior which, in turn, influences demand-driven changes in inflation.  It’s not a perfect relationship, but there’s strong general correlation over time.

But the inflation data everyone’s waiting for is right around the corner, and this brings us to the other part of the reason that higher volatility is a lock for the coming week.  On Wednesday, May 15th, the latest Consumer Price Index (CPI) will be released.

No other economic report has been as likely to cause big swings in financial markets recently.  It is the first, broad, official look at inflation on any given month and, again, inflation is the biggest problem for rates these days.

Q1 inflation proved to be persistently higher than expected–a fact that coincides with interest rates moving up a fair amount from the lows seen at the end of 2023. 

Some experts think the trend of elevated inflation will continue while others still expect it to start calming down any month now. With each new CPI, we get another chance to see a sign of a friendly shift.  Granted, one month of data won’t work any miracles, but the market is very sensitive to the mere possibility of a shift.  

There will be other economic data as well, including Retail Sales and several housing related reports, but there is no doubt about the main event.  Incidentally, both Retail Sales and CPI will be released at the same time, 8:30am ET, on Wednesday morning.

Source: mortgagenewsdaily.com

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Video above: What does it take to be “middle class” in America

(NEXSTAR) – Despite persistently-high mortgage rates, home prices in U.S. metro areas continue to rise in 2024, new data shows.

Over 90% of metro markets have seen gains in the first quarter of the year, according to the National Association of Realtors, with Illinois taking six of the top 10 spots. The highest year-over-year jump was in Fond du Lac, Wis. (23.7%), with Kankakee, Ill. (22%); Rockford, Ill. (20.1%); Champaign-Urbana, Ill. (20%); and Johnson City, Tenn. (19.3%) rounding out the top five.

Illinois low-income utility assistance programs may get renewed due to bill

The spike in prices in those areas happened as the 30-year fixed mortgage rate ranged from 6.60% to nearly 7%, data from the Federal Reserve Bank of St. Louis shows.

“Astonishingly, greater than 90% of the country’s metro areas experienced home price growth despite facing the highest mortgage rates in two decades,” said NAR Chief Economist Lawrence Yun. “In the current market, rising prices are the direct result of insufficient housing supply not meeting the full demand.”

In February, 2024 a Zillow report found that the U.S. now has 550 “million-dollar” cities where the average home value is at least $1,000,000. That’s up from 491 at the same time in 2023.

Looking at metropolitan areas – which can include several cities – we see some regions jumping 20% or more year-over-year.

Rank Metro Area YOY Increase
1. Fond du Lac, Wis. 23.7%
2. Kankakee, Ill. 22.0%
3. Rockford, Ill.  20.1%
4. Champaign-Urbana, Ill. 20.0%
5. Johnson City, Tenn. 19.3%
6. Racine, Wis. 19.0%
7. Newark, N.J.-Pa.  18.8%
8. Bloomington, Ill. 18.5%
9. New York-Jersey City-White Plains, N.Y.-N.J. 18.4%
10. Cumberland, Md.-W.Va. 18.2%
(NAR)

When it comes to the overall home price, California markets made up eight of the top 10 most expensive, led by San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara, Calif. ($1,840,000; 13.7%), Anaheim-Santa Ana-Irvine, Calif. ($1,365,000; 14.2%) and San Francisco-Oakland-Hayward, Calif. ($1,300,000; 14%).

“The expensive markets in the West, where home prices declined last year, are roaring back,” Yun said. “Price dips in that region were viewed as second-chance opportunities by many buyers.”

The two non-California markets in the top 10 were Urban Honolulu, Hawaii ($1,085,800; 5.5%); and Naples-Immokalee-Marco Island, Fla. ($850,000; 9.4%).

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Source: fox59.com

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Kiavi, one of the nation’s largest private lenders for residential real estate investors, closed a $300 million unrated securitization of residential transition loans (RTLs), the company announced on Friday. 

The loans bundled in the securitization were mostly investment property loans used for fix-and-flip transactions. This securitization marked Kiavi’s 17th such transaction and elevated the company’s total issuance to more than $4.3 billion since it launched its securitization program in 2019. 

The deal drew significant interest from institutional investors. Consistent with prior transactions, investors will benefit from a two-year revolving period during which they can reinvest their principal payoffs to purchase additional newly originated loans.

Barclays Capital was the sole entity responsible for structuring the deal. Barclays, Nomura Securities International and Performance Trust Capital Partners were joint bookrunners and co-lead managers on the transaction.

“This additional capital fuels our continued growth, enabling us to help even more real estate investors scale their businesses,” Arvind Mohan, CEO of Kiavi, said in a statement. “Because of our advanced data models, technology platform, and consistent track record of performance, we continue to see significant institutional demand for Kiavi’s RTL assets.”

The deal followed on the heels of a $350 million securitization by Kiavi in March. The lender also reported that it originated $1.66 billion in fix-and-flip and bridge loans in the first four months of 2024, a 40% increase over the same period in 2023, and it recently expanded into construction financing.

Source: housingwire.com

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Flight to quality, also known as flight to safety, is when investors shift their assets away from riskier investments — like stocks — into conservative securities – like bonds. This reaction often occurs during turbulent times in the economy or financial markets, and investors want to put their money into relatively safe assets.

Because flight to quality is a term that’s often thrown around in the financial media, investors need to know what it is and how it can potentially impact an investment portfolio. A flight to quality is a short-term trading strategy that might not be ideal for long-term investors. But it’s still important for investors to know how the broader trend may affect the financial markets.

What Causes Flight to Quality?

Economic uncertainty is why investors look to reorient their portfolios away from volatile investments to conservative ones. Moments of economic uncertainty that spook investors can arise for various reasons, including geopolitical conflict, a sudden collapse of a financial institution, or signs of an imminent recession.

A flight to quality usually refers to a widespread phenomenon where investors shift their portfolio asset allocation. This large-scale change in risk sentiment can generally be seen in declines in stock market indices and government bond yields, as investors sell risky stocks to put money into more stable bonds.

Though a flight to quality usually refers to a herd-like behavior of most investors during economic uncertainty, individual investors can make a similar move at any time, depending on their risk tolerance and specific financial situation.

💡 Quick Tip: How to manage potential risk factors in a self-directed investment account? Doing your research and employing strategies like dollar-cost averaging and diversification may help mitigate financial risk when trading stocks.

What Are the Effects of Flight to Quality?

During periods of flight to quality, investors tend to trade higher-risk investments for lower-risk ones. This shift commonly results in a decrease in the price of high-risk assets and boosts the price of lower-risk securities.

As mentioned above, investors can see one effect of a flight to quality in the price of major stock market indices and bond yields, as the market shifts money from the risky stocks to safer bonds.

But a flight to quality doesn’t mean that investors will necessarily shift out of one asset (stocks) into another (bonds). For example, investors worried about the economy might sell growth stocks in favor of more reliable value or blue-chip stocks, pushing the price of the growth stocks down and boosting the price of the blue chips.

💡 Recommended: Value vs. Growth Stocks

A flight to quality may also shift investment from emerging market stocks to domestic stocks or from corporate bonds to government bonds.

In addition to moving funds from stocks to bonds or other assets, investors may also move money into cash and cash-equivalent investments, like money market funds, certificates of deposit, and Treasury bills, during periods of economic uncertainty.

Real-World Example of Flight to Quality

A flight to quality occurred during the early stages of the COVID-19 pandemic and related economic shutdowns in 2020. Investors scrambled to figure out their portfolio positions in the face of an unprecedented global event, selling stocks and putting money into relatively safe assets.

The S&P 500 Index fell nearly 34% from a high on Feb. 19, 2020, to a low on Mar. 23, 2020, as investors sold off equities. But investors didn’t rush to put this money into high-grade corporate and government bonds, as many would have thought in a regular flight to quality. A record $109 billion flowed out of fixed-income mutual funds and exchange-traded funds (ETFs) during a single week in March 2020. Instead, investors moved capital into cash and cash-like assets during this volatile period in a desire for liquidity.

💡 Quick Tip: How do you decide if a certain trading platform or app is right for you? Ideally, the investment platform you choose offers the features that you need for your investment goals or strategy, e.g., an easy-to-use interface, data analysis, educational tools.

The Takeaway

A widespread flight to quality that creates volatility in the financial markets can be scary for many investors. When you see decreases in a portfolio or 401(k), it can be tempting to follow the broader market trends and shift your asset allocation to safer investments. However, this is not always the best choice, especially for investors trying to build long-term wealth.

Flights to quality have happened in the past (such as during the early stages of the pandemic in 2020), and will, in all likelihood, happen again. But even if you don’t get caught up in it, it’s good to know what’s happening in the markets, and why.

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For a limited time, opening and funding an Active Invest account gives you the opportunity to get up to $1,000 in the stock of your choice.

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1) Automated Investing and advisory services are provided by SoFi Wealth LLC, an SEC-registered investment adviser (“SoFi Wealth“). Brokerage services are provided to SoFi Wealth LLC by SoFi Securities LLC.

2) Active Investing and brokerage services are provided by SoFi Securities LLC, Member FINRA (www.finra.org)/SIPC(www.sipc.org). Clearing and custody of all securities are provided by APEX Clearing Corporation.

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Neither the Investment Advisor Representatives of SoFi Wealth, nor the Registered Representatives of SoFi Securities are compensated for the sale of any product or service sold through any SoFi Invest platform.

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.

Investment Risk: Diversification can help reduce some investment risk. It cannot guarantee profit, or fully protect in a down market.

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Source: sofi.com

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Drug shortages are an ongoing fact of life, and many Americans have known the inconvenience of having to wait to fill a prescription. But shortages have mounted in recent years, alarming observers and generating headlines.

The number of prescription drugs in shortage climbed to a 10-year high of 323 in the first quarter of 2024 — but it’s not just about the numbers. Patients and their health care providers are also being hit with much more consequential shortages, some with potentially life-altering results.

Hospital crash carts, used to provide emergency treatment to patients with critical conditions like cardiac arrest, have run short of premeasured packages of drugs like epinephrine, forcing clinicians to spend extra time measuring a dose from a vial, and increasing the odds of a medication error.

Some cancer patients, if their first-choice chemotherapy is unavailable, have had to take another drug that has much worse side effects.

Shortages can affect everyone connected with health care in any setting. “Drug shortages impact patients, families, caregivers, pharmacists, hospitals, nursing homes, hospices, and other individuals and entities across the health care system,” according to an April 2024 white paper from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.

To make matters worse, over the past 12 months, there have been shortages of medicines for which there is no alternative, says Erin Fox, senior pharmacy director at University of Utah Health. Fox gives one example: oxytocin, a drug that’s ordered by obstetricians to induce labor or, after delivery, to help stop maternal bleeding.

Which drugs are in short supply?

Hundreds of prescription medications are difficult or impossible to obtain as of April 2024. Among them are quinapril, which is primarily used to treat hypertension; injectable acyclovir, an antiviral; and propofol, for general anesthesia.

You can check the availability of a prescription drug by searching the U.S. Food and Drug Administration’s FDA Drug Shortages database or the American Society of Health-System Pharmacists’ ASHP Drug Shortages List. Click on any drug name to learn more about that specific shortage.

The effects of shortages on patients and their providers can be profound. Scott Matsuda, a member of the Patient and Family Advisory Council at the nonprofit Patient Access Network (PAN) Foundation, has worked with cancer patients “who, all of a sudden, find their chemotherapy drugs aren’t available.” Sometimes, patients report that symptoms of their cancers return soon after they stop taking their first-choice chemo, he adds.

No health care setting has been spared, not even hospital operating rooms. Dr. Jesse Ehrenfeld, an anesthesiologist and the president of the American Medical Association, at times has had to use second-choice drugs to induce anesthesia. These medications may have additional side effects, such as lasting longer than necessary, he said.

“Complex workarounds also have the potential to introduce errors,” says Ehrenfeld. “And I’ve had colleagues who had to delay or cancel care due to a shortage.”

Why are so many drugs in short supply?

What causes shortages? About 12% of them are due to manufacturing problems, as when a tornado hit a Pfizer plant in North Carolina, according to drugmakers’ reports compiled by the ASHP. Another 14% of shortages happen when demand suddenly outruns supply; for example, that occurs when demand for the antiviral Tamiflu spikes during a severe flu season. And 12% are due to a business decision, like when a drug manufacturer decides they can reap greater profits by making a different drug.

But the biggest category of reasons that manufacturers give for a shortage, at 60%, is “unknown/would not provide.” Ehrenfeld says, “That’s called flying blind. In most cases, we really don’t have an attributable cause, which makes it hard to pinpoint sustainable solutions.”

What’s being done to solve this multifaceted problem?

Drug shortages are a tough problem because they have such diverse causes. Stakeholders have been seeking solutions for decades, but shortages have continued throughout health care.

ASHP has recommended that, for starters, Congress give the FDA the power to levy “meaningful penalties” on drugmakers that fail to report manufacturing and supply chain problems. Failure to report is rampant in the industry.

“We think FDA requiring greater transparency in manufacturing and distribution could help us understand the causes and mitigate the challenges,” says Ehrenfeld.

The pharmacist group also recommends that to improve the profitability of generics, the FDA waive some fees on manufacturers who promptly bring these lower-priced drugs to market.

Some observers are hopeful that momentum is gathering for impactful action. “I’ve been working on drug shortages since 2001, and we now have the most interest in Congress and elsewhere that I’ve ever seen,” says Fox, who has testified about the problem at Senate committee hearings.

How can you work around a shortage of your drug?

The bottom line for health care consumers is that systemic problems with prescription drug supplies will likely persist. If you’re faced with a shortage of a drug you need, these steps will improve your chances of getting hold of it more quickly.

  • Refill prescriptions as early as your insurer will let you. Ordering prescriptions ahead can give you more options for obtaining a refill before you run out.

  • Contact your prescriber. Let them know that your prescription isn’t available at your pharmacy or will be delayed. Solicit their suggestions for other ways to get the drug, a generic or brand-name equivalent, or an alternative medication that would work for you.

  • Ask your insurer to cover the brand-name version if the generic drug is unavailable. If your insurer resists paying for the more expensive brand-name drug, ask your prescriber to go to bat for you.

  • Develop a long-term working relationship with your pharmacist. 

  • If the pharmacist knows you’re a regular customer, they may be more likely to hustle to find a supplier that has your medication.

  • Try other pharmacies. Drugs in shortage are often distributed unevenly among pharmacies. Call around and see if another retailer in your area has a supply. If your insurer has a mail-order prescription option, consider trying it.

(Photo by Sean Rayford/Getty Images )

Source: nerdwallet.com

Apache is functioning normally

Following his recent retirement from the winemaking business, former NFL star and College Football Hall of Famer, Terry Hoage has put his renowned Paso Robles winery on the market.

The 26-acre estate, located in the prestigious Willow Creek District, is listed at $7 million. It includes a luxury main residence, a guest house, and a fully operational winery, all of them surrounded by 17.5 acres of mature vineyards known for producing award-winning Rhône varietals.

Together with his wife Jennifer, an accomplished interior designer, Terry Hoage has cultivated this vineyard into a celebrated part of the local wine community over the last 20 years. The property features a 3,000-square-foot winery fully equipped to produce up to 3,000 cases annually — and even includes a tasting room.

Now, one year after the couple announced they’re retiring from winemaking, Jennifer and Terry Hoage have listed their 26-acre estate for sale. Jenny Heinzen with Vineyard Professional Real Estate holds the listing.

About the owners

Terry Hoage enjoyed a successful 13-year career in the NFL as a safety, playing for teams like the New Orleans Saints and Washington Redskins. He was recognized as an All-American during his college football days with the University of Georgia Bulldogs.

After retiring from professional football in the late 1990s, Hoage and his wife Jennifer moved to California’s Central Coast and discovered a passion for winemaking. In 2002, they purchased a 26-acre vineyard in Paso Robles and launched TH Estates Wines, specializing in Rhone varietals like Syrah and Grenache.

TH Estates Winery owners Jennifer and Terry Hoage giving a tour of their winery in 2010. Photo credit: Youtube

Over the next 20 years, the Hoages built TH Estates into an acclaimed producer of small-batch wines, earning praise from publications like Wine Spectator. They grew the majority of their grapes onsite at their Willow Creek vineyard.

The couple recently announced their retirement from winemaking after two decades in the Paso Robles wine community. Though bittersweet, they felt it was time to embark on their next chapter and announced the closure of TH Estates Winery in 2023.

The vineyard

Photo credit: Triston Ioppini / Trimotion Media

The heart of this property is the 17.5-acre vineyard planted with Rhône varietals including Syrah, Grenache, and Mourvèdre. These grapes thrive in the Willow Creek terroir and are highly sought-after by renowned Paso Robles winemakers.

The vineyard’s prized fruit contributes to many critically acclaimed wines that sold out year after year. With an approved winery permit to produce up to 3,000 cases annually, this vineyard offers endless possibilities for future owners as passionate about wine as the Hoages.

The winery

Photo credit: Triston Ioppini / Trimotion Media

The property features a full-scale winery and tasting room situated among the rolling vineyards.

At 3,000 square feet, the custom winery provides ample space for wine production and storage. It operates under a use permit allowing for up to 3,000 cases of wine to be produced annually on-site. The permit also enables the winery to conduct public tastings in the dedicated tasting room.

With climate-controlled barrel storage and professional equipment already in place, the winery provides a turnkey operation.

Award-winning wines

The Hoages found success right out of the gate with TH Estates Wines. Their first vintage in 2004 of The Hedge Syrah earned acclaim, dedicated to Terry’s former University of Georgia coach Vince Dooley. This demonstrated the vineyard’s potential for premium Rhone varietals.

In the years that followed, Terry and Jennifer’s wines continued to shine, consistently earning outstanding ratings from top critics. Their limited production pinot noir and Rhone blends became highly coveted.

Photo credit: Triston Ioppini / Trimotion Media

Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate awarded 98 points to the Hoages’ 2013 Decroux, describing it as “one of the finest wines ever produced from Paso Robles.” Grapes grown on the estate sell for premium prices to prestigious local producers like Saxum, Turtle Rock, and Torrin.

Clearly the vineyard’s complex soils and ideal microclimate translate to fruit with incredible character and depth. TH Estates brought Paso Robles to the forefront of California’s Rhone movement.

The main house

The opulent main residence is a licensed vacation rental with luxurious details and amenities throughout. Designed by Jennifer Hoage herself, no expense was spared.

Photo credit: Triston Ioppini / Trimotion Media

The interiors

The home features 3 spacious ensuite bedrooms, each with private patios to enjoy the scenic vineyard views.

The open floor plan is ideal for entertaining, with expansive windows flooding the home with natural light. Custom touches include luxe cumaru wood floors, an art gallery system, and a steam shower to unwind after a day of wine tasting.

Photo credit: Triston Ioppini / Trimotion Media

Stepping inside

The gourmet kitchen truly is the heart of the home. Custom cabinetry paired with white macaubas quartzite countertops provide a clean, modern aesthetic. Top-of-the-line Wolf range and professional series appliances make cooking a dream.

Photo credit: Triston Ioppini / Trimotion Media

Attention to detail abounds, from the wine cooler to multiple sinks and spacious walk-in pantry. A large 14-foot island seats 7 comfortably for casual dining. The formal dining room continues the upscale entertaining space with a contemporary mooii pendant lighting the table, and wine storage built right in.

Photo credit: Triston Ioppini / Trimotion Media

Practical amenities make everyday life a breeze, including whole house water filtration, a water softener, zoned AC/heating and a Lutron lighting system. This smart home has all the modern conveniences to match its luxurious style.

Property amenities

Beyond its wine-making capabilities, the 26-acre estate offers a bounty of fruit trees, olive trees, and berries throughout the property.

Photo credit: Triston Ioppini / Trimotion Media

There is also a sustainable pond for irrigation. Outdoor amenities provide plenty of opportunities for fun and relaxation. A heated saltwater pool and spa with seating for 8 is perfect for lounging on sunny days.

The stylish patio off the kitchen includes an outdoor kitchen with a firepit and BBQ, ideal for alfresco dining and entertaining. And for some friendly competition, there is a custom bocce court on the grounds.

Why sell now?

After 20 successful years immersed in the Paso Robles wine industry and community, owners Jennifer and Terry Hoage have decided to retire and pursue new adventures.

Photo credit: Triston Ioppini / Trimotion Media

The couple started their winemaking journey in 2002, after Terry’s prolific football career, when they purchased the 26-acre parcel that would become their Willow Creek vineyard and winery.

Over the past two decades, the Hoages built TH Estate Wines into an acclaimed producer of Rhône varietals and Pinot Noir that gained a cult following. They were hands-on in every aspect of the business.

Ready for a new chapter

As Terry shared, “Knowing that a book is only so long, we are now planning for a new chapter in our book of life.” While bittersweet, the Hoages are looking forward to what’s next after these invigorating decades in wine.

Photo credit: Triston Ioppini / Trimotion Media

“We have been extremely blessed to have both had two successful careers participating in exciting and invigorating endeavors,” said Jennifer Hoage. “We were fortunate to receive wonderful support from the Paso Robles community and spectacular club members that helped propel us on this journey.”

After celebrating immense success in the NFL and later as vintners, the Hoages are ready to embrace retirement and discover what life has in store next for them. Though they’ll miss being part of the Paso Robles wine community, they’re excited to see what new adventures await.

The opportunity

Photo credit: Triston Ioppini / Trimotion Media

The couple’s decision to part ways with their longtime winery opens up a rare opportunity for one lucky buyer to build upon the reputation and success that Terry and Jennifer Hoage achieved during their 20-year winemaking career here.

The property offers a move-in ready luxury main home along with 26 acres of established vines, a licensed winery, and tasting room.

From the vineyard and winery to the stunning home, all the hard work has been done — now is somebody else’s chance to reap the rewards. And for those seeking a turnkey wine country lifestyle, 870 Arbor Road checks every box.

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Source: fancypantshomes.com