“A one-size-fits-all national code is rigid and does not account for regional differences,” said Hughes. “Such an approach would impose numerous unnecessary requirements on builders, ultimately resulting in higher costs for home buyers.” In his testimony, Hughes pointed to the Promoting Resilient Buildings Act, which would give local governments more control over how they adopt … [Read more…]
Tucked in the Midwest, Cincinnati, OH, lies along the Ohio River just waiting to unveil all the unique things to do among its historic neighborhoods. Local experts share a variety of activities from cozy book nooks to creative craft bars that are guaranteed to become your top favorite spots to jazz-up your daily routine.
Whether you’re moving to a new home in Cincinnati, OH, testing out the vibe in a rental home, or looking for the perfect apartment overlooking the river, these 13 unique things to do in the Queen City are ready to wow you.
The iconic Tyler Davidson Fountain overlooks the square and marks the beginning of several possible routes for a day of exploration. On one route in particular, you can find the newly renovated and expanded Mercantile Library that has been a central part of Walnut Street since 1840. If you’re looking for a cool story, make sure to ask them about their 10,000 year lease on the space.
The food scene is just one of the many things Cincinnati is known for, and for good reason. In the Incline District, head over to The Bold Face Dairy Bar for some soft-serve ice cream with a cult following. Located just around the corner from the Warsaw Federal Incline Theatre, their collection of fun flavors from bourbon barrel stout Flurrie, to ice cream nachos, to cup of lavender with Oreos make for the perfect post-show treat. Enjoy the ambiance of their magically-lit outdoor seating area with a bold bowl or a classic cone.
“Nothing shouts Cincinnati quite like this,” says local children’s book author Jenn Bishop. “The annual matchup between the University of Cincinnati Bearcats and the Xavier Musketeers showcases one of the fiercest sports rivalries in the country, and one of the loudest crowds you will ever hear.” Keep an eye out for tickets in December for one of the most unique things to do in Cincinnati – and be sure to pick your team wisely. “Be prepared to smack-talk for as long as you live in the Queen City.”
Everyone is welcome at The Belle and the Bear in Montgomery. Their unique neighborhood bar vibe is paired with live music, a wide selection of local beers, and great bourbon to taste. Play some pool, darts, or just enjoy the show with other Cincinnatians.
Sacred Beast Diner is nestled between easy access shopping and parking in Cincinnati’s historic art district just steps away from Washington Park and Music Hall. Their all-day breakfast menu includes Cincinnati’s famous Goetta breakfast sausage, as well as strong classic cocktails and European-style café drinks. Enjoy their modern spin on classic diner fare and vintage tunes spun from the original reel to reel player.
Tucked away in Montgomery, you’ll find Olga Polo Photography. Olga has a talent for capturing your most precious moments with a perfect blend of artistry and warmth. Whether you’re marking a big milestone or just want some stunning photos to cherish, Olga Polo Photography is one of Cincy’s hidden gems for making genuine, timeless memories.
If you’ve ever wanted to host the perfect cocktail party, start with a private cocktail class led by professional bartenders at Homemakers Bar. In addition to their seasonal flavors and welcoming bar scene, their classes offer an interactive and fun way to learn the best bartending secrets. Whether you’re a casual visitor or a cocktail enthusiast, you’ll find a memorable and personalized experience in this stand-out cocktail destination.
Hello Honey has been making small batch artisanal ice cream in the heart of downtown Cincinnati since 2012. Their delicious scoops made with real ingredients rotate flavors seasonally, keeping it fresh all year round. With three different neighborhood locations, this spot is a staple of the Queen City’s ice cream scene.
“We’re all about family, community, friendships, local small businesses, and of course, food,” shares the team at the Montgomery Farmers’ Market. Every Saturday morning from May through October, enjoy their local, farm-fresh produce, artisan crafted food, live music, and activities for the kids right in your neighborhood.
Soak up some island vibes on a private party boat cruise with SS Tiki Tours. Hulaing up the Ohio River while taking in breathtaking views of the Cincy skyline is perhaps one of the most unique things to do in the city.
The Härth Room is a can’t-miss if you’re looking for cozy comfort and unbeatable ambiance. Located on historic 4th Street in downtown Cincinnati, their speakeasy vibe features live jazz performances every night for you to enjoy while sipping on a Prohibition-era classic or a late night latte.
“Household Books is a new type of bookstore for people who love the old type of bookstore,” shares Bobby of the Household Books team. With a carefully curated collection of used and rare books, you’re bound to find some new treasures to add to your collection in their shelves. They also host a variety of engaging events from literary themed dinners to poetry readings that makes this bookstore a cultural hub for book lovers.
If you’re looking for a unique thing to do in the OTR area, the Symphony Hotel & Vivaldis Restaurant is sure to make your evening one to remember. Located between Music Hall and the FCC soccer stadium, their nine composer-themed rooms, delicious homemade Italian food, and live music every night make for an unforgettable stop on your Queen City journey.
Life in Cincinnati is vibrant and exciting, full of culture, community, and unique things to do. While not typically the first place you would think of for an adventure, a world of surprises lie within the Queen City if you look close enough. Before long, you’ll see why Cincinnati is such a good place to live.
While lower mortgage rates have reinvigorated hope for the stalling housing market, 2025 might not wind up much better than 2024.
Sure, lower interest rates boost affordability, but there are other components to a home purchase that remain cost-prohibitive.
Whether it’s simply an asking price that’s out of reach, or rising insurance premiums and lofty property taxes. Or other monthly bills that eat away at the housing budget.
This explains why mortgage origination forecasts for purchase lending continue to be pretty dismal.
However, the emerging trend of rising mortgage refinance volume should get stronger into 2025.
A new report from iEmergent revealed that 2024 purchase mortgage originations are projected to fall in terms of loan count when compared to 2023.
In other words, despite lower mortgage rates, the number of home purchase loans is now expected to fall below 2023 levels.
However, thanks to an increase in average loan size, the company believes purchase loan volume will still see a modest increase of 3.5% year-over-year.
To blame is still-high mortgage rates, which peaked about a year ago and have since fallen nearly two percentage points.
But home prices remain elevated, and when combined with a 6% mortgage rate and steep insurance premiums and rising property taxes, the math often doesn’t pencil.
Adding to affordability woes is the continued lack of existing home supply. There simply aren’t enough homes for sale, which has kept prices high in spite of reduced demand.
On the other side of the coin, mortgage refinances are finally showing strength thanks to that pronounced decline in mortgage rates.
They bottomed in late 2024 when the 30-year fixed hit the 8% mark, with only a handful of cash out refinances making sense for those in need of payment relief (on other debt).
But since then rate and term refinances have picked up tremendously as recent vintages of mortgages have fallen “into the money” for monthly payment savings.
As noted a week ago, rate and term refis surged 300% in August from a year earlier and the refinance share of total loan production rose to 26%, the highest figure since early 2022.
Chances are it will continue to grow into 2025 as mortgage rates are expected to ease further this year and next.
iEmergent said they “expect rates to finally start declining in the months ahead,” on top of the near-2% decline we’ve already seen.
While many have argued that the rate cuts are mostly baked into mortgage rates already, which explained mortgage rates rising after the Fed cut, there’s still a lot of economic uncertainty ahead.
The 50-basis point came as a surprise to many and another one could be on deck for November, currently holding a 60% probability per CME FedWatch.
If it turns out the Fed has gotten behind the eight ball, 10-year bond yields (which track mortgage rates) could drop more than is already penciled in.
At the same time, there’s still room for mortgage spreads to compress as the market normalizes and adjusts to the new lower rates (and higher loan volumes ahead).
Looking forward to 2025, the refinance picture is expected to get even brighter, with such loans rising a further 38% (in dollar amount) from 2024.
This will likely continue to be driven by rate and term refis as interest rates continue to improve and the millions who took out loans since 2022 take advantage of cheaper rates.
But it could also come in the form of cash out refinances, which will become more attractive as well.
Even if an existing homeowner has a rate of say 4%, something in the high-5s or low 6% range could work if they need cash.
This could be a reflection of increasing debts in other departments, as pandemic-era savings run dry.
Ultimately, homeowners have barely touched their equity this housing cycle, so there’s an expectation that it’ll happen at some point, especially with home equity at record highs.
You might also see this in the form of second mortgage lending, with HELOC rates expected to fall another 2% as the prime rate is lowered by that same amount over the next 12 months.
Meanwhile, iEmergent is forecasting a paltry 6.5% increase in purchase volume in 2025, pushing overall dollar volume growth to just 13.3%
As for why purchase lending is projected to be relatively flat next year, it’s a wider economy story.
If economic growth continues to decelerate and a recession takes place, a weaker labor market with higher unemployment could dampen home buyer demand.
So even if mortgage rates decline more as a result, you’ve got fewer willing and able buyers, despite lower monthly payments.
This explains the phenomenon of how home prices and mortgage rates can fall in tandem.
They might not, but it at least debunks the idea of there being an inverse relationship between the two.
Long story short, 2025 should be better for mortgage originators thanks to refis, but don’t get your hopes up on purchase lending seeing a big jump thanks to lower rates.
Source: thetruthaboutmortgage.com
When planning for retirement, people often assume Medicare will cover their medical bills, but in fact many retirees will face out-of-pocket costs that, over time, could reach into the six figures.
While it’s difficult to predict for sure what your actual health care costs in retirement will be — especially in light of today’s longevity — it’s wise to work with a ballpark figure in order to create a safety net of savings that will cover you, no matter what your needs will be in the years to come.
Key Points
• Planning for retirement should take health care costs into account, such as potential out-of-pocket costs and long-term care.
• According to research, the average 65-year-old individual may need $165,000 in savings to cover medical expenses in retirement (and double that amount for couples).
• Medicare covers medical costs such as preventive care, doctor visits, prescription drugs, inpatient hospital stays, short-term rehab, and hospice.
• Medicare Advantage Plans are Medicare-approved, private insurance plans that may cover medical basics as well as other expenses, such as vision, hearing, and dental.
• Health savings accounts (HSAs) and long-term care insurance can help pay for medical expenses not covered by Medicare.
The cost of health care in retirement can be overwhelming. According to the annual Fidelity Retiree Health Care Cost Estimate in 2024, a typical retired couple aged 65 could spend as much as $330,000 in after-tax savings on medical expenses during the course of their retirement.
That figure doesn’t include related health costs such as dental services, over-the-counter medications, or long-term care — which are not currently covered by original Medicare.
Long-term care expenses can be especially onerous, with the median cost of a private room in a nursing home running about $116,800 per year, according to the 2023 Genworth Cost of Care Survey. This, too, is an expense that many people may need to factor into their retirement plans, given the growing number of people living into their 80s and 90s — or longer.
This “new longevity,” as it’s sometimes called, may also lead to additional health-related costs down the line that are difficult to anticipate now, but require educated estimates nonetheless — especially for women, who live on average about five years longer than men.
Recommended: Different Types of Retirement Accounts
Only offers made via ACH are eligible for the match. ACATs, wires, and rollovers are not included.
To create a realistic plan for retirement, and make optimal financial decisions about investing for retirement, insurance coverage, and the timing of important government benefits — the starting point is to look at how much money will be coming in, and how much will be going out to pay for likely health issues.
While Social Security benefits depend on an individual’s work history, as well as the age when they first file for Social Security, the key thing to know about this source of income is that it’s limited. The average monthly payout, starting in January 2024, was $1,907. And the maximum possible benefit amount is $3,822 per month, for those who retire at full retirement age in 2024.
Individuals can file for Social Security starting at age 62, generally speaking, but “full retirement age” is 67 for those born in 1960 and later. To get a more accurate estimate of your own benefit amount, go to SSA.gov.
Fortunately, most retirees also have savings or a pension, which can add to their income. Nearly 80% of retirees reported having one or more sources of private income, in addition to Social Security, according to the Economic Well-Being of U.S. Households in 2022, by the Federal Reserve Board.
For example, you may have opened a retirement account like an IRA or an employer-sponsored plan, such as a 401(k), that may offer an additional source of income.
If you’re freelance or a small business owner, you may have a SEP IRA or a SIMPLE IRA — common retirement plan options for the self-employed.
The point is to have a grasp of your income sources in retirement, as well as your anticipated cash flow, so that you can cover medical costs in retirement.
As costs vary considerably depending on one’s region, age, and overall health, it can be difficult to estimate the precise amount to set aside for health care in retirement.
Start by assessing your overall health today, and speaking to your doctor(s) about any chronic conditions, genetic predispositions, and any other risk factors that could impact the care you need as you get older.
Unfortunately, there’s almost no way to predict with any accuracy the types of conditions or care you might need, or what they will cost, when preparing for retirement. But in some cases this thought exercise may help you anticipate some upcoming costs, so you can factor that into your overall estimate.
Of course, not all of your medical costs in retirement will be out of pocket; Medicare (and Medicaid, if you qualify) cover many medical expenses. But this insurance is another expense to factor in.
Medicare is a medical insurance program offered by the federal government for those 65 years and older, and those who are disabled. Medicare will pay certain health care expenses in retirement, but with restrictions. Dental, vision, and hearing care, including hearing aids, are not covered by Original Medicare, generally known as Parts A and B.
Also, as noted above: Medicare does not cover long-term care, like an assisted living or nursing home facility.
Note that you must apply for Medicare benefits within a certain window, or risk being penalized with higher premiums. Generally, the Initial Enrollment period begins three months before you turn 65, and it ends three months after the month in which you turned 65. Some exceptions apply (for example, if you have health insurance through your employer, or were affected by a natural disaster).
Be sure to check the terms that might apply to your situation to avoid a penalty.
The following terms generally apply to those with a modified adjusted gross income (MAGI) over $103,000, or $206,000 for a married couple. If your premium is subject to an income adjustment, it could be as high as $594 per month (though according to the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS), the highest rate generally applies to people with incomes over $500,000, or $750,000 for a married couple).
• Medicare Part A covers inpatient hospital stays and treatment, as well as skilled nursing care (i.e. short-term rehab), limited in-home care and hospice. As long as you or your spouse had sufficient Medicare taxes withheld through your job (generally at least 10 years), you won’t pay a monthly premium for Part A. The deductible for Part A is $1,632 in 2024.
• Medicare Part B covers outpatient care, preventive care, and visits to doctors. The monthly premium for Part B is about $174 per month, with a roughly $240 annual deductible in 2024.
• Medicare Part D covers prescription drugs. The monthly premium is about $55.50 in 2024.
Medicare Part C, or Medicare Advantage Plans, is a bit of a separate case. Medicare Advantage plans are private insurance plans that are Medicare-approved, and may cover vision, hearing, or dental needs, as well as the medical basics and prescriptions covered by Parts A, B, and D. Medicare Advantage plans are optional.
While the Advantage Plans are designed to fill in certain gaps in coverage, you want to make sure the costs are manageable, and that you’re not paying for overlapping policies.
In other words, assuming at least one hospital stay that requires you to pay the deductible, the basic cost of Medicare alone is about $4,600 per year. Again, that doesn’t include:
• Vision care
• Dental care
• Hearing care or hearing aids
• Long-term care
Most people will need some or all of those types of health care as they get older, which could add to your potential out-of-pocket expenses over time, and speaks to the need for some emergency savings.
In addition to Medicare, there are other ways to pay for medical expenses during retirement, including HSA accounts and long-term care insurance.
When choosing a health insurance plan before you retire, consider one that comes with a health savings account (HSA) that may help you save money for retirement medical expenses. These accounts generally come with high-deductible health plans (HDHPs), and provide three substantial tax benefits:
• Contribution deductions
• Tax-deferred growth
• Withdrawals without taxation for qualified medical costs
The accounts take pre-tax deposits to cover health care costs that are not covered by insurance. The unspent money in an HSA rolls over from year to year. Most important, the money in an HSA account belongs to you, even when you are no longer participating in the original high-deductible plan.
HSA funds can be used to pay for a variety of medical expenses in retirement. For instance, prescription drugs, eyeglasses, hearing aids, and other medical supplies can generally be purchased with HSA funds.
Additionally, you can use HSA savings to cover deductibles and co-payments for medical care. Medicare premiums and long-term care insurance premiums can also be covered using HSA funds.
By utilizing catch-up payments and employer contributions, those who are already over 50 can still get the most out of these programs. A catch-up payment of $1,000 per year, in addition to the maximum contribution limit, is allowed for people 55 and older. One can use an HSA to pay for yearly physicals or other preventative exams covered by an HDHP.
A benefit of utilizing an HSA to cover medical expenses in retirement is that the money in the account can be invested, allowing it to increase in value over time. This might be helpful for people who wish to have a dedicated source of savings to cover medical bills.
It’s worth noting that funds in an HSA must be used for qualified medical expenses in order to be withdrawn tax-free. It’s a good idea to consult a tax professional or review IRS guidelines to ensure that HSA funds are being used appropriately.
Another approach to bridge the Medicare gap is to get long-term care insurance. This kind of insurance can provide a monthly benefit for long-term care, either for a few years or for the rest of one’s life.
The expenses of long-term care such as in-home care, assisted living, and nursing facility care, can be covered in part by long-term care insurance. These services are often required by people who are unable to do activities of daily living on their own, such as eating, dressing, or bathing, due to a chronic disease or disability.
That said, these policies can be complex, as well as expensive, and it may be wise to consult with a professional before purchasing coverage.
Medical expenses can be a large portion of one’s retirement budget. As daunting as it may seem, calculating these expenditures ahead of time and developing an insurance and spending plan will help you save more of your retirement funds for other needs.
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Health care costs depend on a variety of factors, but on average a healthy person over age 65 could spend as much as $165,000 during their retirement ($330,000 per couple).
A few ways to prepare include making a retirement budget, saving in a retirement account, funding a health savings account while still employed, making sure to get adequate medical insurance through Medicare and/or private Advantage plans once you turn 65. You may want to consider long-term care insurance as well.
Ways to save on out-of-pocket medical expenses include shopping around for the best prices on health care services, making use of preventive care services to help reduce the need for more expensive treatments in the future, and purchasing insurance to help cover unexpected medical costs. In addition, funding a health savings account (HSA) when it’s offered is a tax-advantaged way to set aside money for health care costs.
Photo credit: iStock/jacoblund
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Home to seven national parks, like Grand Teton and Yellowstone, Wyoming has endless opportunities to enjoy the rugged outdoors. From charming small towns at the foothills to snow-covered mountain towns, there are plenty of places to live in Wyoming that embrace the state’s nature.
At Rent., we’ve collected a list of the best mountain towns in Wyoming to call home. Whether you’re drawn to the allure of Yellowstone’s foothills or the quiet charm of the towns in the Wind River Range, these mountain towns offer a peaceful mountain retreat for their residents. Read on to find out which Wyoming mountain towns made the list.
Mountain Range: Absaroka Mountains
Average rent price: $1,500
Population: 9,720
Houses for rent in Cody, WY
Apartments for rent in Cody, WY
Homes for sale in Cody, WY
Cody is nestled within the breathtaking Absaroka Mountains and serves as a gateway to Yellowstone National Park. This town, situated about halfway between the bustling cities of Billings and Jackson, is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. With open spaces like Cedar Mountain, Buffalo Bill State Park, and Trout Peak, you can enjoy picnic areas, trails, and stunning views.
Cody is also renowned for its historical significance and Western culture, hosting attractions like the Buffalo Bill Center of the West, the Old Trail Town, and the Cody Night Rodeo. The city’s population of just over 9,700 people enjoys a blend of small-town charm with access to restaurants and cafes such as Cody Steakhouse and Granny’s, making it a unique mountain town to live in.
Mountain Range: Laramie Range
Average rent price: $700
Population: 6,220
Houses for rent in Douglas, WY
Apartments for rent in Douglas, WY
Homes for sale in Douglas, WY
Douglas is a quaint town in Wyoming, located near the Laramie Range and the Ayres Natural Bridge Park. This hidden gem has a rich pioneer history, river views, and open landscapes. The town is a short drive from Medicine Bow-Routt National Forest, offering ample opportunities for boating, fishing, and hiking.
Douglas’s historical sites, including the Wyoming Pioneer Memorial Museum and the Douglas Railroad Interpretive Museum, provide a glimpse into the area’s past. With a population of just over 6,200, Douglas offers a tight-knit community feel, with its attractions like the Wyoming State Fair, Jackalope Square, and Fort Fetterman Historic Site.
Mountain Range: Black Hills
Average rent price: $1,080
Population: 32,120
Houses for rent in Gillette, WY
Apartments for rent in Gillette, WY
Homes for sale in Gillette, WY
Gillette, known as the “Energy Capital of the Nation,” is surrounded by the majestic Black Hills. This town is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering numerous trails and recreational areas. Gillette is close to the iconic Devils Tower National Monument and Keyhole State Park, a popular lakeside park.
Gillette’s population of over 32,000 enjoys a variety of local amenities, including the Campbell County Rockpile Museum, McManamen Park, and the Frontier Auto Museum & Cafe. The town’s vibrant community life is complemented by dining options such as The Coop and Ranch and Roost. With its rich energy industry heritage and close-knit community, Gillette offers a unique blend of modern living and outdoor adventure in Wyoming.
Mountain Range: Wind River Range
Average rent price: $500
Population: 12,100
Houses for rent in Green River, WY
Apartments for rent in Green River, WY
Homes for sale in Green River, WY
Green River sits in the Wind River Range, offering breathtaking views and a plethora of outdoor activities. This town is a paradise for those who love the water, with the Green River running through it, providing excellent opportunities for fishing and boating. There are plenty of trails near town like Wilkins Peak Trailhead, Pilot Butte Wild Horse Scenic Loop, and Island Park.
With a population of over 12,000, Green River maintains a small-town atmosphere while offering amenities such as Expedition Island Park and the Sweetwater County Museum. The town’s variety of living options, combined with its natural beauty and community events like the annual River Festival, make it a great spot for residents.
Mountain Range: Wind River Range
Average rent price: $1,330
Population: 7,660
Houses for rent in Lander, WY
Apartments for rent in Lander, WY
Homes for sale in Lander, WY
Lander is another hidden gem near the Wind River Range, with Sinks Canyon State Park providing plenty of outdoor options for residents. For example, you can hike at the North Slope Trail and the Popo Agie Falls Trailhead. This town is rich in outdoor activities, from rock climbing and hiking to fishing in the nearby Popo Agie River.
Lander’s community of nearly 7,700 people enjoys a vibrant downtown area with local favorites like the Lander Bake Shop and the Cowfish restaurant. There are also some unique museums like the Fremont County Pioneer Museum. The town also hosts the annual International Climbers’ Festival, attracting climbers from around the globe. Lander’s blend of outdoor adventure, community spirit, and cultural events make it a unique place to call home.
Mountain Range: Snowy Range
Average rent price: $1,693
Population: 32,020
Houses for rent in Laramie, WY
Apartments for rent in Laramie, WY
Homes for sale in Laramie, WY
Laramie is situated within the Snowy Range and the Medicine Bow Mountains, offering a picturesque backdrop. This town is a hub for outdoor activities, including skiing, hiking, and mountain biking. For example, you can explore places like Hutton Lake National Wildlife Refuge, Snowy Range Ski Area, and Sugarloaf Mountain.
With a population of over 32,000, Laramie is home to the University of Wyoming, adding a vibrant educational and cultural dimension to the town. Local attractions such as the Wyoming Territorial Prison State Historic Site and the Laramie Plains Museum, along with dining spots like Born In A Barn and Crowbar & Grill, contribute to the town’s lively atmosphere. Laramie’s combination of outdoor recreation, events, and views makes it an awesome Wyoming mountain town.
Mountain Range: Wind River Range
Average rent price: $1,744
Population: 2,180
Houses for rent in Pinedale, WY
Apartments for rent in Pinedale, WY
Homes for sale in Pinedale, WY
Pinedale is a small town with a big heart, located at the base of the majestic Wind River Range. This town is a gateway to outdoor adventures, with access to hundreds of miles of hiking and fishing spots. From Fremont Lake and Half Moon Lake to White Pine Resort and Fremont Overlook, there’s always a new spot to check out in the Pinedale area.
Pinedale’s population of just over 2,100 enjoys a close-knit community atmosphere, with local dining options like the Wind River Brew Pub and Los Cabos. The town is also home to the Museum of the Mountain Man, showcasing the area’s rich history. Pinedale’s stunning natural surroundings, combined with its vibrant community life, make it an enchanting place to live or visit.
Mountain Range: Medicine Bow Range
Average rent price: $788
Population: 8,630
Houses for rent in Rawlins, WY
Apartments for rent in Rawlins, WY
Homes for sale in Rawlins, WY
Rawlins, set against the backdrop of the Medicine Bow Range, offers a blend of history, culture, and outdoor recreation. This town has a population of over 8,600 and is known for the historic Wyoming Frontier Prison and the Carbon County Museum, showcasing the area’s frontier history.
Rawlins’s residents enjoy a variety of outdoor activities, including exploring the nearby Seminoe State Park overlooking Seminor Reservoir, and the Pathfinder National Wildlife Refuge. The town’s dining scene includes local favorites like Anong’s Thai Cuisine and Buck’s Sports Grill. Rawlins’s rich historical heritage and outdoor opportunities give residents a charming frontier-style mountain town.
Mountain Range: Wind River Range
Average rent price: $679
Population: 10,680
Houses for rent in Riverton, WY
Apartments for rent in Riverton, WY
Homes for sale in Riverton, WY
Riverton lies in the heart of Wyoming, surrounded by the Wind River Range. This town is a hub for outdoor enthusiasts, offering easy access to both mountain adventures and the Wind River for fishing and boating. Some popular outdoor attractions include Black Bridge, camping, Boysen State Park, and 1838 Mountain Man Rendezvous Grounds.
Riverton’s vibrant community of over 10,600 people enjoys local attractions such as the Riverton Museum and the Wind River Heritage Center. The town’s dining scene features spots like the Trailhead Restaurant and Brown Sugar Coffee Roastery. Riverton’s blend of natural beauty, heritage, and community spirit makes it a welcoming place for residents looking to live in the area.
Mountain Range: Laramie Range
Average rent price: $800
Population: 6,460
Houses for rent in Torrington, WY
Apartments for rent in Torrington, WY
Homes for sale in Torrington, WY
Torrington is a charming town near the Laramie Range. It’s close to popular areas like the Rawhide Wildlife Habitat Management Area, Fort Laramie National Historic Site, and Eagle Peak. This town, home to about 6,400 people, is known for its agricultural heritage and community-focused living.
Torrington’s residents enjoy local attractions such as the Homesteaders Museum and the Goshen County Fair Grounds. The town’s dining scene includes the Java Jar and the Bread Doctor, offering cozy spots for residents. Torrington’s blend of small-town atmosphere, attractions, and outdoor activities make it an awesome mountain town to live in.
Mountain Range: Bridger-Teton National Forest
Average rent price: $6,500
Population: 1,380
Houses for rent in Wilson, WY
Apartments for rent in Wilson, WY
Homes for sale in Wilson, WY
Wilson is set in the Bridger-Teton National Forest near peaks like Taylor Mountain, Jackson Peak, and Horsetop Mountain. The area is known for its vast outdoor recreational opportunities, from skiing and snowboarding at Jackson Hole Mountain Resort and exploring the Laurance S. Rockefeller Preserve to visiting the Albright View Overlook and wandering through Emily Stevens Park.
With a population of over 1,380, the city has a quaint feel with its local bars, restaurants, and cafes. Just outside of Jackson, you can explore landmarks like the National Museum of Wildlife Art, Miller Cabin, and the National Elk Refuge & Greater Yellowstone Visitor Center. If you’re looking for a mountain town in Wyoming near Teton, be sure to check out Wilson.
Note that this list is not comprehensive of all the mountain towns in Wyoming. Towns must have average rental data to be included on the list. Average rental data from Rent.com during September 2024. Population data is sourced from the United States Census Bureau.
Source: rent.com
Grad school can boost your career, but it comes at a price. Those who completed a graduate-level degree in 2020 left school with about $88,220 in student debt, on average, according to the latest data from the National Center of Education Statistics.
Even grad school loans offered by the government can be tough to repay. Federal grad PLUS loans, available to graduate and professional students for education expenses not covered by other financial aid, have a 9.08% interest rate in 2024-25, compared to 6.53% for direct loans for undergraduates.
Bills can quickly become unmanageable. A hypothetical borrower who has $88,220 in grad school debt with a 9.08% interest rate would owe more than $1,100 each month on the standard 10-year repayment plan.
Luckily, you still have loan relief and forgiveness options, especially if you work in certain professions. And with interest rates poised to fall, refinancing with a private lender may help you pay off your debt faster or lower monthly payments. If you’re struggling to pay your monthly grad school loan bill, consider these five key strategies.
Borrowers with federal loans are automatically placed on the standard 10-year repayment plan, which splits all of your debt — undergraduate and graduate — into 120 equal payments, plus interest.
Alternate repayment plans may lower your payments, especially if you have a lot of debt relative to your earnings. Income-driven repayment (IDR) plans cap your monthly bills at 10% to 20% of your income if you have graduate loans. After 20 or 25 years, the government forgives your remaining grad school debt. There are two key IDR plans currently available to most grad school borrowers:
Outside of the IDR program, the government offers two other alternative repayment plans that may lower your bills:
Extended repayment. If you owe at least $30,000, you can extend your repayment period up to 25 years on this plan. Payments can be fixed or they can increase gradually. You’ll likely pay more in total interest, but monthly bills may be smaller.
Graduated repayment. Your monthly payments will start relatively small and increase every two years over a 10-year period.
If you’re not sure which plan to choose, call your federal student loan servicer. Your servicer can walk you through the available options and help you choose a plan that lowers your monthly bills. To get a general idea of your repayment options, you can also use the loan simulator on studentaid.gov.
Private lenders offer fewer flexible repayment plans than the government. To explore your options for private grad school debt, refer to your loan origination documents and contact your lender with questions.
Here’s an easy way to lower your monthly bill: set up automatic student loan payments. If you have federal student loans, autopay will result in a 0.25 percentage point interest rate deduction. For example, a 9.08% interest rate would become 8.83%. Over a 10-year repayment period on $88,220 worth of loans at the 9.08% rate, you’d save about $1,430 by simply enrolling in autopay.
Log into your online federal student loan servicer account to set up autopay.
Some private lenders also offer autopay discounts. Refer to your loan origination documents for details.
IDR isn’t the only path to debt relief — there are more than a dozen student loan forgiveness programs available to borrowers. If you have graduate debt, consider these options:
Public Service Loan Forgiveness. Consider working for the government or a nonprofit organization to get loan forgiveness after 10 years. Teachers, firefighters, nurses, humanitarian aid workers, social workers and those in related professions may qualify. During the Biden administration, the average PSLF recipient has gotten $73,150 worth of student debt forgiven, according to a NerdWallet analysis of Education Department data from August 2024.
State and local student loan forgiveness programs. Depending on where you live and your profession, your state or community could forgive a certain amount of your student loan debt. For example, Vermont offers up to $5,000 in student loan repayment assistance if you recently graduated from a Vermont college or university and stay to work for an employer based in the state for at least two years. Many states also offer student loan repayment benefits for medical practitioners, ranging from therapists and social workers to dentists and surgeons.
An increasing number of companies offer student loan benefits to employees. Nearly half of all organizations offer tuition assistance, and 9% offer student loan repayment benefits, according to the Society of Human Resource Management’s 2024 Employee Benefits Survey.
Student loan benefits vary by company. Reach out to the HR department of your current or prospective employer to learn about your options.
If you’re earning a decent income and have a credit score at least in the high 600s, refinancing could get you a lower interest rate on your grad school loans. A lower rate can decrease both your monthly bills and the amount you’ll pay overall.
However, refinancing federal student loans is risky, because you’ll forfeit flexible repayment options, possible loan forgiveness and key borrower protections, like generous forbearance policies.
Only refinance your federal grad loans if you’re sure you won’t ever need these repayment features. For example, let’s say you have a steady, well-paying consulting career in the private sector. You won’t qualify for PSLF. Since you’re a high earner, an IDR plan may not lower your bill relative to the standard 10-year plan, and you may pay off your debt before reaching the IDR forgiveness threshold. In this case, refinancing to get a lower interest rate could be the best route toward managing your monthly bills and paying off your debt completely.
If you have private grad school loans, you won’t risk losing any federal protections by refinancing, because you didn’t have them in the first place. In this case, refinancing if you can get a lower rate is an easier decision.
The Federal Reserve recently cut interest rates, which could prompt lenders to lower their student loan refinance rates further. There’s no limit to the amount of times you can refinance; if you already have private student loans, consider doing so whenever you can lock in a lower rate.
To begin the process, compare rates and terms offered by different lenders and use a student loan refinance calculator. Prioritize lenders that offer a rate estimate with a soft credit check, so your credit score doesn’t get dinged.
Source: nerdwallet.com
Do you want to learn how to start a personal finance blog? Starting a personal finance blog changed my life. When I began Making Sense of Cents (the blog that you’re reading right now!), I had no idea that sharing my money tips would lead to financial freedom and the ability to work from anywhere….
Do you want to learn how to start a personal finance blog?
Starting a personal finance blog changed my life. When I began Making Sense of Cents (the blog that you’re reading right now!), I had no idea that sharing my money tips would lead to financial freedom and the ability to work from anywhere.
What started as a hobby turned into a full-time career, allowing me to help others take control of their finances while earning a great income.
Whether you want to help people save money, get out of debt, or learn how to invest, blogging gives you a platform to make a real impact. Plus, it’s an opportunity to earn some extra income on the side or even turn it into a full-time career.
If you’ve ever thought about sharing your own money journey and helping others improve their financial lives, now is a great time to start. In this How To Start a Finance Blog guide, I’ll walk you through how to create a successful personal finance blog, just like I did.
Quick note: I have a free How To Start A Blog FREE Course you can click here to join. Want to see how I built a $5,000,000 blog? In this free course, I show you how to create a blog, from the technical side to earning your first income and attracting readers.
Over 10 years ago, I started my blog, Making Sense of Cents, on a whim. I had read an article about personal finance and thought it would be fun to share my own experience. At first, blogging was just a hobby.
I had no idea that people could make money from blogs. But after about six months, a blogger friend introduced me to an advertiser. I made my first $100, and I was hooked.
Since then, the blog has grown beyond my wildest dreams and I have earned over $5,000,000 blogging over the years. Blogging changed my life by giving me financial freedom and the ability to work from anywhere.
Now, I want to help you start your own successful blog.
A personal finance blog is a website where you share tips and advice about money. It’s a place where you can help others understand how to save, budget, invest, and spend wisely.
Some examples of topics that a personal finance blog may cover include:
And so much more.
You can choose one or more of these topics to focus on.
Recommended reading: What Is A Blog, How Do Blogs Make Money, & More
I think that starting a personal finance blog has many benefits.
You can share your money tips and help others improve their financial situation by sharing advice on saving, budgeting, and investing. I have received countless emails over the years from readers thanking me for helping them change their lives, and these emails are always amazing to read.
Writing a blog also encourages you to learn more about personal finance through research, which can improve your own money skills. I have learned a lot about personal finance because I am constantly reading about it and because I am so active in the personal finance community.
Plus, you can earn extra income through affiliate marketing, ads, and sponsored posts, helping you reach your own financial goals. As I mentioned above, I have earned over $5,000,000 blogging over the years, and I really love running this online business – so it’s been a win all around for me!
For me, I love having a personal finance blog and it’s one of the best decisions that I’ve ever made in my life.
Below is how to start a personal finance blog, step by step!
Choosing a finance niche is the first step in starting your personal finance blog. A niche is a specific area of focus that will help your blog stand out.
To help you decide, I recommend thinking about what you’re passionate about. Is it budgeting, saving money, or investing? By picking a topic you love, you’ll enjoy writing and sharing your knowledge.
You should also think about your expertise and experience. What do you know a lot about? If you have experience with paying off debt or improving your credit score, that might be your niche.
Narrowing down your niche helps you become an expert in that area. For example, instead of writing about all things finance, you might focus just on household budgeting tips.
Your niche can also help you make money. Advertisers and sponsors usually look for specific topics to advertise on. If your blog is about investing, you might attract ads from financial services.
Don’t worry if it seems too narrow. There are a lot of people interested in specific topics. Being specific can help you connect better with your readers.
To start your personal finance blog, I always recommend that you sign up for a self-hosted WordPress site. This means you will own your blog and its content, unlike free blogging platforms.
WordPress is where a blogger writes their blog posts. It’s like the home base for your blog. You can log in, create new blog posts, format them (like adding pictures, headings, or links), and then publish them for your readers to see. WordPress makes it easy to manage everything from your writing to how your blog looks. It’s the platform where you do all the behind-the-scenes work to keep your blog running.
WordPress is a tool that helps you build and manage a blog or website without needing to know how to code. It’s super popular because it’s easy to use and has tons of features to customize your site.
WordPress is what I use for this website (Making Sense of Cents), too!
In short, WordPress is the tool to build your blog, and self-hosting gives you the freedom to control and expand it however you like!
Here are the steps to start a self-hosted WordPress blog:
You can see my full tutorial for this at How To Start A WordPress Blog On Bluehost. There are step-by-step directions if you want more detail and/or want to see screenshots of the exact things you should click on.
Plus, if you use my tutorial, you can get the lowest pricing as well as a free domain name.
Choosing a blog name is a big first step and it can seem hard to decide on.
Here are some tips for brainstorming a personal finance blog name:
P.S. Don’t forget that your domain name (also known as your blog name) is free if you sign up for Bluehost for your blog! You can click here to get your domain name for free.
The layout of your blog is super important. It helps your readers find what they need and enjoy their visit.
You have three main options when it comes to designing your personal finance blog:
Doing it yourself is usually the cheapest, but it can be quite time-consuming. Paying for a custom web design is usually expensive.
I’m a big fan of simply getting a premade design. They are more affordable than a custom design and still look really good. One premade blog design site that I recommend is Restored 316 (my favorite!). If you need to build a website that is custom, professional, and budget-friendly, they have you covered! There is no need to code or stress over graphic design, either. These templates are easy to use.
Please click here if you’d like to go the easy way and get an affordable premade blog design (this is what I recommend).
To make your personal finance blog successful, start by setting up key pages.
These pages are important, as they help your readers navigate your site easily and find the information they need.
Your key pages usually include your:
There are other pages that you may want to add as well, it just depends on what you want and how detailed you want to get. The above is a great starting point.
Other pages that you can add down the line (you don’t want to overwhelm yourself too much, especially in the beginning) may include a Work With Me page (if you offer any freelance services), FAQ page (to answer common questions readers may have), Resources page (to showcase the products that you use), and a Press page (to show your readers where you have been mentioned in the press).
Creating social media accounts can help your blog grow because it can make it easier for more people to find your blog.
The social media accounts that you can start include:
Now, you definitely do not need to be active on all of these social media accounts, but I do usually like to claim my blog name on each so that no one else can take it.
Once you have your social media accounts set up, I also recommend that you add the links to your blog’s homepage so that your readers can easily find you on social media.
Your content plan is what you’ll write about on your blog.
First, think about who your audience is. Do they want to save money, get out of debt, or invest wisely? Knowing this helps you create content that speaks to their needs.
Next, brainstorm topics that fit your blog. You can start with basic personal finance tips, budgeting hacks, or ways to save more money each month.
Once you have a list, set up an editorial calendar where you think about how often you’ll publish new posts. It could be once a week, twice a week, or even daily. Consistency is important and I highly recommend writing at least one blog post each week.
Plan ahead by writing down specific ideas for each post. This helps you stay organized and makes sure that you always have something to write about.
Now, your blog content plan doesn’t have to be crazy; it can literally just be a list of blog posts – it all depends on how organized you want to be. For example, you can just make a list of blog posts that you want to write such as:
These ideas could easily fill up your editorial calendar and help you stay organized and consistent with your posts!
Once your blog is set up, it’s time to write your first blog post!
Below are some tips for writing your first personal finance blog post:
There are several ways you can earn money with your personal finance blog.
One way is through affiliate marketing. You can partner with companies that have affiliate programs like Amazon. When someone buys an item through your link, you earn a commission. I have a free ebook to learn more – Affiliate Marketing Tips For Bloggers.
Ad revenue (display ads) is another option. You can place ads on your blog using services like Google AdSense, Mediavine, or Raptive Ads. When visitors see or click these ads, you make money.
You might also explore sponsored posts; this is where you partner with a company and they pay you for a review, a mention, or a blog post that talks about their product.
Selling products/services that you create is a good strategy too to make money with a finance blog. You can sell printables, write ebooks, provide consulting services, or teach online courses.
As you can see, there are many ways to make money with a personal finance blog. For me, I like to do a little bit of everything so that I am diversified with my income streams from my blog.
To get readers to your finance blog, you need to promote it.
Some ways to grow your personal finance blog include:
Promoting your blog takes time and effort. It takes time to grow a new personal finance blog, so try not to be too sad in the beginning if it takes time – that is completely normal.
If you’re thinking about starting a personal finance blog, you might have some common questions. Here’s what you need to know to get going.
The amount of money that a personal finance blogger can make varies widely. I have made over $5,000,000 blogging over the years, and I know many others who make a full-time income from their personal finance blog as well. Successful bloggers can make thousands of dollars each month through ads, affiliate marketing, sponsored posts, and digital products.
No, it’s not too late to start a personal finance blog. There’s always room for fresh voices and new perspectives in personal finance.
You don’t need a finance degree to start a personal finance blog. Many bloggers share personal experiences, research, and advice.
To make your personal finance blog stand out from others, I recommend that you focus on your unique experience with the topic that you are writing about. For example, you could share personal stories and actionable advice for what you did to pay off your student loans or to start investing.
Yes, a personal finance blog can be profitable. I have made over $5,000,000 from my personal finance blog over the years, all by working from home on the internet.
I hope you enjoyed my article on how to start a finance blog.
I’ve been running this finance blog that you’re reading for quite some time now, and it’s one of the best decisions that I’ve ever made.
Starting a personal finance blog changed my life, and it could do the same for you. Sharing my money-saving tips not only helped others but also led me to financial freedom and a career I love.
There are so many different finance niches that you could write about, whether it be budgeting tips for beginners or financial advice for those who want to retire early. Plus, you don’t need to be an expert to start a personal finance blog – many people want to hear about real people’s real experiences and insights, including their journey with personal finance (so that they can learn real tips!).
Whether you’re looking to earn a little extra or turn blogging into a full-time job, this guide will help you start a successful personal finance blog that makes a real impact.
Reminder: I have a free How To Start A Blog FREE Course you can click here to join. Over 80,000 people have already taken the course. In this free course, I show you how to create a blog from the technical side to earning your first income and attracting readers.
Do you want to learn how to start a personal finance blog?
Recommended reading:
Source: makingsenseofcents.com
When people think of Portland, they often picture its vibrant downtown, craft breweries, and iconic bridges. However, the true essence of living in Portland extends beyond the city limits. The suburbs of Portland offer a blend of peaceful residential areas and access to both natural beauty and urban conveniences. Each Portland suburb provides its own unique mix of amenities, from quiet, tree-lined streets to bustling shopping districts, all while maintaining close proximity to the heart of the city.
In this ApartmentGuide article, we’ll explore some of the most notable Portland suburbs—from the scenic riverside communities to tech-driven hubs—highlighting key aspects such as population, average rent, and what makes each area stand out. Whether you’re searching for the perfect apartment in Portland or curious about the diverse Portland neighborhoods surrounding the city, let’s discover the best parts of the Portland metro area to call home.
Before we dive into the top Portland suburbs, let’s take a look at the cost of living in the area. Portland’s cost of living is around 19% higher than the national average, with housing playing a significant role. The median sale price for a home in Portland is approximately $529,950, which is notably higher than the national average of $432,657. Rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Portland averages about $1,627 per month, reflecting the growing demand in the city.
While Portland itself has seen rising prices, many of the surrounding suburbs offer a range of housing options at varying price points. Below, we’ll take a closer look at some of the most desirable suburbs for those looking to live near Portland.
If you’re looking for more specific rental insights, check out our guides on the 11 Most Affordable Neighborhoods in Portland, OR for Renters in 2024 and the 9 Most Expensive Neighborhoods in Portland to Rent in 2024.
Known for: Tech industry hub, shopping, and outdoor recreation
Beaverton, located just seven miles west of downtown Portland, is one of the most sought-after suburbs in the region. The city is home to Nike’s world headquarters, along with several major tech companies, earning it a reputation as a tech industry hub. Beaverton also offers a blend of urban amenities and suburban comfort. Residents have easy access to shopping centers like Washington Square Mall and the Streets of Tanasbourne, along with an abundance of dining options ranging from local cafes to international cuisine.
Outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate Beaverton’s proximity to the Tualatin Hills Nature Park, which offers hiking trails, wildlife viewing, and open green spaces. The city has invested heavily in parks and recreation, making it a haven for those who enjoy an active lifestyle. With a mix of apartments, single-family homes, and upscale new developments, Beaverton has something for everyone, making it an ideal suburb for both professionals and those looking for a balance between city and nature.
Population: 100,000
Average rent for a one-bedroom apartment: $1,702
Median home sale price: $567,500
Beaverton transportation scores: Walk Score 52, Bike Score 67, Transit Score 35
Apartments for rent in Beaverton, OR | Houses for rent in Beaverton, OR | Homes for sale in Beaverton, OR
Known for: Upscale living, proximity to the lake, and scenic beauty
Lake Oswego is one of Portland’s most affluent suburbs, located just 10 miles south of the city. Nestled around Oswego Lake, this suburb is known for its luxury homes, well-manicured streets, and lush landscapes. Lake Oswego offers a high-end lifestyle, with its vibrant downtown area featuring boutique shops, art galleries, and fine dining options. The suburb is home to a thriving arts scene, with regular cultural events, concerts, and galleries that attract both locals and visitors.
Residents can enjoy outdoor recreation on Oswego Lake, where boating, fishing, and lakeside picnics are popular. Additionally, the city is known for its extensive network of parks, including George Rogers Park and Tryon Creek State Natural Area, which offer hiking trails and green spaces perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. Lake Oswego is also conveniently located near top-rated golf courses and country clubs, adding to its appeal for those seeking an upscale lifestyle.
Population: 40,000
Average rent for a one-bedroom apartment: $1,811
Median home sale price: $906,000
Lake Oswego transportation scores: Walk Score 37, Bike Score 47, Transit Score 23
Apartments for rent in Lake Oswego, OR | Houses for rent in Lake Oswego, OR | Homes for sale in Lake Oswego, OR
Known for: High-tech employment, suburban amenities, and outdoor activities
Hillsboro, located about 18 miles west of downtown Portland, is the largest city in Washington County and a major center of the “Silicon Forest” tech corridor. With Intel and other major tech employers calling Hillsboro home, the suburb has experienced significant growth in recent years. Hillsboro is known for its modern residential developments, excellent schools, and a wide range of amenities, from local farmers’ markets to upscale shopping centers.
Despite its rapid growth, Hillsboro has retained a suburban charm, with access to nature and outdoor activities playing a key role in the local lifestyle. Residents can explore Jackson Bottom Wetlands Preserve or Rood Bridge Park, which offer trails, wildlife observation, and beautiful natural settings. With a mix of new housing developments and established neighborhoods, Hillsboro provides a variety of options for homebuyers and renters. Its location along the MAX light rail line also makes commuting to Portland convenient for those working in the city.
Population: 108,000
Average rent for a one-bedroom apartment: $2,061
Median home sale price: $532,500
Hillsboro transportation scores: Walk Score 44, Bike Score 72, Transit Score 37
Apartments for rent in Hillsboro, OR | Houses for rent in Hillsboro, OR | Homes for sale in Hillsboro, OR
Known for: Suburban living with urban conveniences and green spaces
Tigard is located about 10 miles southwest of Portland and offers a mix of residential neighborhoods, shopping, and outdoor recreation. As one of Portland’s more affordable suburbs, Tigard is known for its friendly environment, making it an attractive option for those seeking suburban living with easy access to the city. Tigard’s central location near Beaverton and Tualatin gives residents a variety of nearby employment opportunities, while its well-connected public transportation options make it an ideal spot for commuters.
The suburb is home to the popular Bridgeport Village, an outdoor shopping center featuring high-end stores, dining, and a movie theater. Tigard also offers ample green spaces, with parks like Cook Park and Dirksen Nature Park providing opportunities for hiking, biking, and nature exploration. With a mix of affordable housing, upscale developments, and apartment complexes, Tigard caters to a wide range of residents.
Population: 54,000
Average rent for a one-bedroom apartment: $1,749
Median home sale price: $634,970
Tigard transportation scores: Walk Score 43, Bike Score 62, Transit Score 30
Apartments for rent in Tigard, OR | Houses for rent in Tigard, OR | Homes for sale in Tigard, OR
Known for: Affordability, proximity to nature, and revitalized downtown
Gresham, located about 16 miles east of downtown Portland, is one of the area’s more affordable suburbs, making it an appealing choice for those seeking more space and lower housing costs. Known as the gateway to the Columbia River Gorge, Gresham is a haven for outdoor lovers, offering easy access to hiking, biking, and stunning views of the Pacific Northwest’s natural beauty. The suburb’s proximity to scenic attractions like Multnomah Falls and the Historic Columbia River Highway make it a favorite among residents who enjoy outdoor activities.
In recent years, Gresham’s downtown area has undergone revitalization, with new restaurants, cafes, and shops opening, creating a more vibrant community atmosphere. Gresham also boasts several parks, including Main City Park and Red Sunset Park, providing ample green spaces for recreation. For those looking for an affordable option without sacrificing access to Portland or outdoor recreation, Gresham is an excellent choice.
Population: 112,000
Average rent for a one-bedroom apartment: $1,477
Median home sale price: $497,900
Gresham transportation scores: Walk Score 47, Bike Score 64, Transit Score 39
Apartments for rent in Gresham, OR | Houses for rent in Gresham, OR | Homes for sale in Gresham, OR
Known for: Scenic views, upscale neighborhoods, and outdoor activities
West Linn, located south of Lake Oswego along the Willamette River, is a picturesque suburb known for its rolling hills, beautiful landscapes, and upscale homes. This area attracts residents who value privacy, scenic beauty, and access to outdoor activities. The suburb is home to Mary S. Young Park, a popular spot for hiking, picnicking, and enjoying views of the Willamette River. The historic Willamette District offers boutique shops, restaurants, and cafes, adding charm to the suburban experience.
West Linn is a quieter, more residential-focused suburb, perfect for those seeking a slower pace of life while staying close to Portland. The housing market includes luxury estates, single-family homes, and newer developments, offering a variety of options for homebuyers. The area’s top-rated schools also make it a desirable location for those looking for a peaceful lifestyle.
Population: 27,000
Average rent for a one-bedroom apartment: $2,127
Median home sale price: $850,000
West Linn transportation scores: Walk Score 34, Bike Score 41, Transit Score 21
Apartments for rent in West Linn, OR | Houses for rent in West Linn, OR | Homes for sale in West Linn, OR
Methodology: The suburbs included in this list were selected based on their overall popularity, determined by search trends and housing demand in the Portland area. Average rent and home sale price data were sourced from Redfin and Rent.com as of September 2024. Transportation data, including Walk Scores, Bike Scores, and Transit Scores, was sourced from Walk Score.
A debt validation letter is a document — typically from a collections company — that shares the recorded details of an outstanding debt. This letter contains the amount you owe, the name of the original creditor, the date by which you’re required to pay the collections company, and the instructions for how to dispute it. It should also advise you that, if you plan to dispute the debt, the dispute must be filed within 30 days.
Obtaining a debt validation letter is an important step toward disputing a fraudulent debt or repaying a legitimate one. Read on to learn more about how a debt validation letter works and what to do if you receive one.
If a debt collector contacts you by phone, you should ask them to contact you in writing instead. That way, you will have an easy-to-reference document in hand, and you may be able to protect yourself from too frequent debt collection calls as well as from scammers.
Once you make your request, the collections agency is required to send you a debt validation letter, which lists the following information:
• Debt collections agency’s information
• Original creditor’s information (for example, a credit card company)
• Account number associated with the debt
• Amount owed
• Information about how to file a dispute, including a tear-off form to make taking the next step easier
Once you have a debt validation letter, you can take a closer look to ensure you recognize the original debt. Then you can make a plan to repay it if it’s legitimate — or begin the dispute process if you have any doubts.
No matter what type of debt they’re seeking repayment for, collections agencies are legally required to offer debt validation letters. These ensure they’re seeking remuneration for legitimate debts only.
There are laws governing how often a debt collections agency can contact you. According to the Debt Collection Rule, which is part of the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act, it’s a violation of the law for debt collectors to call you more than seven times within a seven-day period or within seven days after getting you on the phone about a specific debt.
However, these restrictions do not apply to text messages, emails, or even contact via social media. Fortunately, though, such messages are required to offer a simple opt-out option.
If you receive a validation of debt letter and you’d like to file a dispute, you can send a letter requesting proof that you owe the debt in the first place. The collections agency must be able to provide this proof, which is called debt verification, in order to continue to pursue your payment or report the debt to credit bureaus. You can also use this moment to formally ask the creditor not to contact you in any way other than written letters.
However, again, it’s critical that you ask for debt verification in a timely manner — as soon as possible after receiving the original debt validation letter. Debts that are not disputed within 30 days are presumed to be valid by the collector, so be sure to take care of the matter as quickly as possible.
Recommended: How to Pay Off Debt in 9 Steps
Once you request debt verification, the collector must provide proof that you owe the original debt. This may include documentation from the original creditor. Some key next steps to know:
• If the debt collections agency cannot provide this proof, they are legally required to stop pursuing your payment.
• If they continue to do so, or report an invalid, fraudulent debt to the credit bureaus, damaging your credit history and score, you can sue them.
If funds you legitimately owe have gone to collections, paying the debt off as quickly as possible is usually the best policy. Having a debt in collections can be very bad for your credit score, and collections agencies may be able to charge additional interest or even take you to court.
If you do need to pay off the debt, you can explore your options, such as finding a budgeting method that suits your needs or taking out a personal loan.
However, if the debt is not legitimate or the collections agency can’t definitively prove you owe the debt, requesting validation and verification can help you successfully file a dispute. This can also help you avoid paying money you don’t owe (as well as ongoing negative impacts to your credit history).
Recommended: Becoming Debt-Free
A properly executed debt dispute letter should make it clear that you do not recognize the debt and believe it is not yours in the first place. You should also request documentation that proves you incurred the debt. The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau offers a letter template that you can use in this scenario, which makes the process as simple as personalizing the letter, printing it out, and sending it to the agency.
A debt validation letter is a document that lists how much you owe, to whom you owe it, and who is trying to collect it. It also informs you about your right to dispute the debt. Once you receive a validation of debt letter, you can begin the dispute process by requesting debt verification. In addition, a debt validation letter can help you move forward if you are dealing with too frequent contact from a creditor or believe a scam may be involved.
Becoming debt free can be challenging — but it’s possible. One helpful tool could be a personal loan.
Think twice before turning to high-interest credit cards. Consider a SoFi personal loan instead. SoFi offers competitive fixed rates and same-day funding. Checking your rate takes just a minute.
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If a collections agency contacts you, you should request a debt validation letter — because the agency is required by law to produce validation and verification if they are to continue to pursue your repayment. Additionally, having a debt validation letter in hand is the first step toward filing a dispute if it turns out the debt is illegitimate.
If a collections agency does not respond to your request for a debt validation letter, it may be a scam — as all legitimate collections agencies are legally required to validate debts. If the organization continues to harass you, you may want to seek legal counsel in order to ask them to cease and desist.
First things first: As the consumer receiving a debt validation letter or notice of collections attempts, you must request debt verification or dispute the debt within 30 days. While there’s not a specific set timeline in which a collector must respond to your debt validation request, if they can prove the debt, their motivation for repayment means you’ll probably hear from them sooner than later.
Photo credit: iStock/sturti
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Named one of the cloudiest, snowiest, and coldest U.S. cities, Anchorage AK, is also one of the prettiest. With the Chugach Mountains in the distance and lots of gorgeous water, Anchorage truly has an abundance of natural beauty. Not to mention, Anchorage was also named one of the most affordable places to live in Alaska!
However, if you’re not sure where to start your sightseeing journey, don’t worry. We’ve compiled Anchorage’s 10 top beautiful places to check out whether you’ve just signed a lease for your rental home, are looking for an apartment, or have lived in your Anchorage, AK home for several years and many more to come.
In no particular order, our first recommendation is the Tony Knowles Coastal Trail. This is one of Agnes Stabinska’s, of travel blog Alaska Itinerary, favorites for a reason. She particularly loves the stunning views of the coastline, Chugach Mountains, and if you’re lucky – Denali in the distance.
“It’s perfect for walking, biking, and photography, especially around sunset when the light beautifully illuminates the landscape. This 11-mile-long scenic path stretches from downtown Anchorage to Kincaid Park. Along the trail, some of the best viewpoints include Earthquake Park, which offers historical insights and beautiful coastal views, and Point Woronzof, where you can catch stunning sunset views and spot airplanes taking off from the nearby airport,” says Agnes.
Another great option is The Turnagain Arm located just thirty minutes from downtown Anchorage. Bloggers José Luis Vílchez and Cora Rose of Art We There Yet? love this spot for three main reasons: to “1) Watch surfers ride the bore tide (a unique phenomenon that only happens in a few key places on the globe). 2) Look for eerie stands of dead trees along the Upper Arm. Often called “ghost forests”, these trees died when the land suddenly fell 6-8ft during the historic 1964 earthquake (second largest in recorded history). 3) Drive up Portage Valley Rd and view glacier after glacier clinging to the valley walls.” Their absolute favorite is the 14-mile isthmus trail which is the only stretch of land connecting the Kenai Peninsula to mainland Alaska, so make sure you add that to the top of your list.
Photo courtesy of Art We There Yet?
Next up, we have Humphrey Hawksley’s favorite place – Mount Baldy. “Matt Worden from Go Hike Alaska led me on the thousand feet climb along well marked trails where you can absorb Alaska’s expanse, beauty and tranquility,” notes Humphrey. “Roaming the ridgeline, you have mountainscape on one side and panoramic scenes across the Eagle River on the other,” he describes.
Afterwards, Humphrey recommends checking out the Writer’s Block Bookstore and Cafe for a cup of joe, a new read, and some music. As the author of the Rake Ozenna thriller series (set in Alaska), we know his suggestion is foolproof.
“A hidden oasis in Anchorage is Potter’s Marsh, a wildlife viewing boardwalk and bird sanctuary,” says Your Alaskan Adventures’ Deborah Raarup. On this boardwalk stroll, you can expect to see moose, a variety of birds, and even some muskrats year round, as well as swans and their baby cygnets in the spring.
Additionally, “On a clear day, you can see the beautiful Chugach Mountains to the east and the Turnagain Arm to the west,” tells Deborah. With the abundant wildlife and beautiful backdrop. Potter’s Marsh is truly “one of the best places in Anchorage to get outside on an easy hike to see wildlife.”
Photo courtesy of Your Alaskan Adventures
Add in a bit of Alaskan history with your nature outing at Earthquake Park. Although a tragic event, this spot commemorates the 1964 earthquake with several signs explaining the effects of the disaster. Beyond your daily history lesson, this park also features incredible trails with the best coastal views and if you’re in luck, gorgeous wildflowers. Don’t forget to stop at the oversation points to take in a grand sight of Cook Inlet and the surrounding mountains.
It wouldn’t be an Anchorage article without the mention of Chugach State Park! This beloved spot “provides Anchorage residents and visitors with world-class backcountry recreation via numerous trailheads within a half hour drive from the international airport and downtown of Alaska’s largest city,” says Mat Brunton, mountain guide and outdoor educator of Chugach Mountain Institute.
It’s hard to find a park with more diverse landscapes as Chugach has it all: rugged mountains, glaciers, lush forests, and pristine lakes. Beyond hiking, this park is great for biking, spotting wildlife (moose, bears, eagles, etc.), fishing, camping, snowshoeing, and more. With the beautiful scenery and several activities to enjoy, it’s truly a favorite destination for outdoor lovers of all levels for a reason.
Looking to explore? The National Center for Outdoor & Adventure Education (NCOAE) offers the best wilderness adventures for both teens and adults. Starting in Anchorage, you’ll travel to McCarthy, settle in, and trek across the Alaskan wilderness to a rendezvous point.
What next? Great question! At this remote airstrip, a bush plane will pick you up for a journey further into the backcountry – how cool! “During these days, participants hone their outdoor and leadership skills in the heart of the Alaskan wilderness. The landscape and wildlife provide a dramatic backdrop for the learning experience. Participants may encounter moose, lynx, bears, ground squirrels, Dall sheep, and other wildlife during their guided trip. Whatever challenges the Alaskan wilderness presents, you’ll gain the skills to endure and enjoy it with confidence and style. And once your adventure is complete, you’ll be returned safe and sound to Anchorage,” describes brand and business journalist Mikal Belicove.
Indigo Alpine Guides owner Jack Bynum’s perfect day includes a hike to Flattop Mountain. An accessible hike for all levels, this mountain is arguably the most climbed in all Alaska. There are several different paths to choose from, so enjoy having a choose-your-own-adventure moment. Before the hike, Jack recommends fueling up at Fire Island Bakery and/or grabbing breakfast at Middleway Cafe. If you’re doing a late afternoon hike, Jack suggests stopping for a bite at Hearth Pizza for a well-deserved slice or two.
For the ideal afternoon activity, take artist Duke Russell’s suggestion and scooter down to ship creek and the public boat launch. This spot “provides beautiful views of the downtown skyline as well as the Chugach Mountains and Government Hill,” describes Duke. Additionally, “When the tide is out, you’ll see many sea birds feeding in the flats along ship creek,” he adds. A scooter ride followed by a scenic view and beautiful birds? What more could you ask for?
Thirsty for water? Alaskan Sights and Bites’ co-owners Dan and Chris Morris absolutely love Lake Hood. As the world’s busiest seaplane bases, it’s the perfect spot to watch the takeoff and land. And with the backdrop of the Chugach Mountains? There’s no better Alaskan experience. It’s also “a great spot to take photos, and get a feel for the adventurous spirit of Alaska — a place we often share with guests on our Alaskan Sights & Bites van tours,” add Dan and Chris.
Source: rent.com