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I‘m constantly amazed at the fact of how many young people I come across that don’t have any life insurance.  While they all have there different reasons, the most common reason I hear is that it’s too early to think about life insurance.  I couldn’t disagree more.

Most Important Question

Are you supporting individuals whose livelihood depends on your income? If the answer is yes, it’s time to look at life insurance.

Now, you may be saying: shouldn’t I wait to get a policy? Why should I pay premiums when I have so many other checks to write? Well, the reluctance is understandable: the perception is that life insurance is for old people, and when you’re 30 or 35, chances are you’ve got a long, great life ahead of you. But in financial terms, here is why this can be advantageous.

Healthy is Good

Typically, Americans shop for a life insurance policy in the middle of their life spans – when they are in their forties or fifties. At that time, they may have already fallen into the grip of bad habits (smoking, obesity, heavy drinking) and diabetes, heart disease, cancer or HIV may have entered their health picture. All these conditions can jack up premiums or make it harder to get a policy.

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Term Life Insurance is Cheap

Okay, maybe you won’t have to contend with any of the above health risks at 45 or 50 – but who knows? Buying a term insurance or permanent cash value life policy early in life, before you have to encounter any of these problems, should allow you to pay less expensive premiums. (Presuming you don’t face recurring risks to your health and safety today.) Getting life insurance quotes online are so easy nowadays, with sites like Matrix Direct offering you a free quote in minutes.

Did you know that premiums for standard-risk term life insurance fell 50% between 1994 and 2008?

Premiums have been getting cheaper and cheaper for new term life policyholders, partly because the mortality rate has dropped over the decades. In fact, the non-profit Insurance Information Institute says term insurance premiums have fallen by more than 4% per year since 2000, and the premiums on cash value policies are averaging roughly 5% lower today compared to a decade ago.

Do young singles need life insurance?

Good question. Some financial consultants will tell you there is no pressing reason for it. Yet if you are single, buying a term life insurance policy (or even a permanent life policy) early on could bring you a better deal and potentially guarantee your insurability.  I have to admit that I did not do this.  But I was fortunate to take out a term life policy early enough that the premiums were still very affordable.

Maybe it’s time. Time passes, things change, and so does your need for insurance. Check out Good Financial Cents 10 Best Life Insurance Companies for great resources to any of your questions. Even if you are insured, it’s important to keep up with change – as an example, the Insurance Information Institute estimates that about a third of families don’t update their life insurance coverage after a new baby comes home.  I’m an exception to this stat.  Not only did I increase my insurance after having our first child, but I’m now increasing it again with the soon arrival of our second.  I increased the amount dramatically so that I won’t have to worry about increasing premiums if we have another child.

If you’re young and you haven’t yet talked to a qualified insurance advisor, think about doing so today – you may be pleasantly surprised how affordable life insurance can be.

Source: goodfinancialcents.com

Apache is functioning normally

Kate Mazariegos has spent most of her life thrifting and antiquing. Using her talents to find unique pieces to work in clients’ spaces, Mazariegos is opening a brick-and-mortar location this weekend.

Located at 318 St. Elizabeth Street, Kate & Waverly Home will include second-hand items that Mazariegos has curated for those who might feel overwhelmed in a “typical” thrift store.

“When I walk into a typical thrift or second-hand store, I get excited. It is like a treasure trove of possibilities,” she said. “But several friends have let me know, over the years, that not everyone feels that way.

Using her design eye, Mazariegos will have products styled on shelves and furniture in a more minimal way so shoppers can see how it might look in their homes.

Her passion for thrifting began with her mother, who she said had an eye for spotting beautiful and unique items that could be used in the decor. Often these items were found in local thrift stores and at garage sales.

“I learned a lot during those years spent with her going from place to place and finding ‘treasures,’” Mazariegos said. “Even before I believed in it, people would tell me I should open up a place to sell antiques and other unique items that I find.”

Mazariegos has studied famous designers but is largely self-taught. She learned not only by accompanying her mother but also through her father, who is a carpenter.

“From birth, I was surrounded by major home remodel projects and helping my mom pick out wallpaper, paint colors, and tiles,” she said. “And I’ll admit, I poked fun at her constant rearranging of furniture and styling of shelves and end tables.”

She also helped her dad when he needed another hand.

“I loved it all, and I still do,” she said.

Mazariegos enjoys this community and wants to develop and move forward small businesses. She has created coworking spaces in the two back rooms of Kate & Waverly Home, where people who work from home or creative people who need space can work when needed – either collaboratively or alone to focus.

“I have several other ideas on how to utilize the space in a way that brings in and builds up a community that I am excited to implement in the next year,” she said.

Kate & Waveryly Home will have unique offerings in terms of style and format, even though she knows there are other thrift stores in the area.

“I also think of the world, as a whole, is in desperate need of more stores that spotlight second-hand items,” she said. 

While the focus is on second-hand, antique, and vintage home decor, she also has racks of curated second-hand clothing and accessories. She has collaborated with Madison Jones of Blue House Fragrances and created a custom fragrance for the shop, which will be available as a candle and linen and room spray.

“The candle is made of a glass that can be recycled, reused as a drinking glass, or returned to the store and cleaned and used for another candle,” she said. “The lid is made of cork, which is compostable. And the linen spray bottles are also glass that can be recycled, or can be returned to the store and reused as well.”

Mazariegos is also working with local craftsmen and artists creating pieces she will share on social media.

Kate & Waverly Home opens Saturday. To honor the family dog they recently lost, 10% of sales on Saturday will go to The Humane Society where they adopted Maggie. Drawings and giveaways will also happen throughout the day.

Mazariegos is active on social media and tries to share information daily. The design business is @kateandwaverly and the storefront is @kateandwaverlyhome. The website is kateandwaverlyinteriors.com. Products in the store will not be available online, but Mazariegos said that could change. 

Store hours will be 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Thursday through Saturday, but appointments can also be made. She will be in her office at the store daily.

Source: owensborotimes.com

Apache is functioning normally

In recent weeks, so-called “money gurus” like Jim Cramer and Suze Orman have called for four percent rates on all new mortgages to solve the ongoing housing crisis.

The pair has proposed separately that both new and existing mortgages be offered or refinanced at four percent to protect at-risk borrowers and promote homeownership.

And while the government has since stepped in with a different plan, its “Making Home Affordable” program aimed at incentivizing low-rate refinances and loan modifications, the approach carries similar pitfalls.

Tinkering with mortgage rates so borrowers can obtain more affordable mortgages carries with it serious dangers, as does lending to new borrowers at these below-market rates.

If anything, it’s setting us all up for a huge repetition of history, by pushing up home prices artificially.

A big part of the problem were facing is oversupply and associated housing values that just don’t make sense, hence the huge slide in price.

But prices must continue to fall or we’ll just get ourselves into a similar mess down the road, especially when these ultra-low mortgage rates disappear.

Face it, we can’t manipulate mortgage rates forever, so there will come a time when interest rates jump back to six or seven percent or higher, making it that much more difficult to qualify for financing later down the line.

Especially since home prices aimed to be propped up by these low rates; so how will the new crop of borrowers purchase homes in say, five years?

If home prices are still inflated and interest rates climb back up to historical levels, will we need to come up with a new breed of affordable mortgage programs like interest only loans and option arms so new homeowners can qualify?

I think we need to look at the big picture here, because it’s questionable if lower rates are even the answer.

Most foreclosure victims are deep in negative equity, as noted by a recent report from ForeclosureRadar, which said the average foreclosed property at auction in California last month was worth $200,000 less than the balance of the associated mortgage.

So really, does an interest rate reduction that lowers the monthly mortgage payment a few hundred bucks really save us here or just complicate matters?

(photo: kaibara87)

Source: thetruthaboutmortgage.com

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As many long anticipated, the stock market finally took a major hit after months of seemingly endless gains.

When it comes down to it, things can’t keep rising forever (remember home prices), and so we’re finally seeing some pullback, though no outright correction yet.

Thanks to the recent stock market carnage, bonds have rallied because they are where investors turn for “safety” during turbulent times on Wall Street.

The 10-Year Bond Yield Plummeted Today

When bond prices go up, yields come down and mortgage rates tend to follow the direction of the 10-year bond yield.

Early this morning the 10-year bond yield took a major dive, falling as low as 1.8680%, which is below its 52-week low of 1.87%, per Yahoo.

It has since risen to around 2.03%, which is about 8% below Tuesday’s price. During the past month the yield is down nearly 15%.

Simply put, this is great news for mortgage rates, but not so great for your stock investments!

The Dow is off more than 300 points today, or nearly 2%, and has lost nearly 6% in the past five trading days.

The 30-Year Fixed Is Back Below 4%

Okay, so your stock portfolio isn’t exactly something you want to even look at right now. But mortgage rates are lower, right?

Back in spring, the 30-year fixed was pricing closer to 4.50%. Today, you might be able to get a rate closer to 3.875%, which on a $300,000 mortgage would save you roughly $110 per month, or over $1,300 annually.

If your loan amount is closer to $200,000, the monthly savings drop to a little below $75 per month, or less than $900 annually.

At first glance, it might not even sound that great, but the savings can add up over time.

Additionally, the lower rates might actually allow more prospective homeowners to qualify for mortgages.

Lenders have become a lot more stringent when it comes to DTI ratios thanks to the QM rule limiting the back-end number to 43%.

So a rate that is a half percent lower might actually make scores of could-be homeowners eligible again, especially if home prices ease some during fall and winter.

The lower rates could also make refinancing more attractive to those who no longer saw the benefit after rates rose off record lows.

[The refinance rule of thumb.]

Be Patient with Rates

While all the headlines will tell you that rates are “plunging,” including my own because I like to mock-sensationalize, you might be disappointed when you actually run the numbers.

Aside from the savings being perhaps a bit lower than you expected, lenders also tend to take their time when lowering rates as to not get burned.

For one, they’ve got an active pipeline of loan applications with higher interest rates. They don’t want that business to jump ship.

Additionally, things can change quickly, so if they lower rates too much too fast, any positive economic news could make mortgage rates surge higher. Then they’ll get caught out.

There’s no point in lowering rates unnecessarily if this is a temporary blip, as opposed to a longer-term trend. So you should count on banks and lenders playing this one carefully.

In other words, it might take some time for rates to come down as much as they should, meaning patience could be rewarded here.  Heck, even Bernanke might benefit from waiting, not that he had a choice…

Read more: Should I lock or float my mortgage rate?

Source: thetruthaboutmortgage.com

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Futures options can be a low-risk method to getting exposure to the futures market. Trading options on futures works like trading options on individual equities but rather than the underlying asset being a stock, it’s a futures contract.

In addition, there are other key differences for investors to bear in mind, including how futures are traded.

It is important to be aware of these differences, and familiarize yourself with key terms and understand how futures options work for buyers and sellers.

What Are Options on Futures?

Options on futures allow you to make bets on futures contracts with lower capital requirements than the futures themselves, which is in turn lower than the capital required to trade in the assets underlying the futures. Instead, puts and calls are used.

Recommended: How to Trade Options

Key Terms to Know About Futures Options

Experienced options traders might be familiar with many of the primary terms of options on futures. New traders should understand these basics. Let’s investigate some key terms.

Premium

Premium is the amount you pay for calls and puts when you buy these instruments. Options sellers collect the premium at the initiation of a trade. The amount of premium paid or collected is determined by a variety of factors including the size of the underlying futures contract.

The lower the premium, the less the market believes a futures contract will be in-the-money by expiration.

Contract Months

Unlike stocks, options contracts have expiration dates. When trading options on futures there are two expiration dates to keep in mind: the expiration date of the futures option and the expiration date of the futures contract.

Options on futures pricing usually expire near the end of the month before physical delivery of the futures contract takes place.

In general, the longer the time until expiration, the more expensive the options will be.

Strike Price

The strike price on futures options is the price at which you can buy or sell the underlying futures contract.

For example, when you buy a call option on a futures contract with a strike price of $10, you have the right, but not the obligation, to buy the underlying futures contract at $10 on or before expiration for an American-style option.

Many futures options contracts are European-style, however, which means they can only be exercised on the expiration date and not before.

Most options are not exercised, rather they are closed in the market before expiration.

How Do Futures Options Work?

Futures options work very much like options on equity securities, but there are differences.

Let’s outline some of the specifics so you understand the mechanics of trading options on futures contracts.

Calls and Puts: Rights for Buyers

The buyer of a call option on a futures contract has the right to buy the underlying futures contract at a predetermined price and time. The buyer of a put option on a futures contract has the right to sell the underlying futures contract at a predetermined price and time.

Recommended: 10 Options Trading Strategies

Calls and Puts: Obligations for Sellers

The seller, or writer, of a call option on a futures contract is obligated to sell the underlying futures contract at a predetermined price and time. The seller of a put option on a futures contract has the obligation to buy the underlying futures contract at a predetermined price and time.

Be aware that most options on futures are cash-settled. That means the price difference is paid or received — there is no physical delivery of the futures contracts or assets with cash-settled options.

💡 Quick Tip: Options can be a cost-efficient way to place certain trades, because you typically purchase options contracts, not the underlying security. That said, options trading can be risky, and best done by those who are not entirely new to investing.

Pros and Cons of Options on Futures

Options and futures have benefits and drawbacks. Let’s clarify some of those.

Pros

A primary advantage of options on futures is that you can trade with high leverage. This means you put down a small amount of capital to access a large notional value of an asset. Small swings in price can lead to large moves in your account’s equity.

Another upshot is the options market on futures is open more hours than the stock market. You can trade overnight in many markets.

When you purchase options, the most you can lose is the premium you pay. When you sell options, you know what your max gain is: the premium received. For this reason, options on futures can be used to tailor an investment strategy based on your risk and reward objectives.

Cons

There are downsides to consider. For example, when you trade with high leverage, you expose yourself to a large loss potential.

You must also be aware of differences in options specifics in futures trading. For example, a $1 move on a futures index option could have a much greater impact on your account’s equity versus a $1 move on an equity option.

Finally, futures contracts are more complex than equity options. Each futures contract has unique specifications. It can be tough to understand all the futures contracts available to trade.

American-Style vs European-Style

American-Style European-Style
The holder can exercise before expiration The holder cannot exercise before expiration
Most options on equities are American-style Futures contracts often have European-style options
Quarterly options on S&P 500 futures contracts, Eurodollar options, and Treasury options Most CME Group options on futures are European style

There is a third less common option, the Bermudan option. Bermudan options lie somewhere between American and European options — hence the name. The biggest difference is Bermudan options can be exercised on specified dates prior to expiration. These dates are laid out in the options contract.

Option Value vs Underlying Futures Value

The price impact on a futures option works just as options on stocks. Calls benefit from higher prices on the underlying asset while puts rise when the underlying price drops, all else equal.

Futures Price Change Call Price Change Put Price Change
Increase Increase Decrease
Decrease Decrease Increase

In-the-Money vs At-the-Money vs Out-of-the-Money

It is important to understand the moneyness of options when trading. Moneyness is simply the difference between an option’s strike price and the underlying asset’s price. Knowing the moneyness of an option can help you decide whether to exercise.

In-the-money options have intrinsic value and are priced more expensively than out-of-the-money options. Out-of-the-money options are often cheaper and can be accessed with a smaller amount of capital.

In-the-Money At-the-Money Out-of-the-Money
For calls, when the underlying asset’s price is above the strike For calls, when the underlying asset’s price at the strike For calls, when the underlying asset’s price is below the strike
For puts, when the underlying asset’s price is below the strike For puts, when the underlying asset’s price is at the strike For puts, when the underlying asset’s price is above the strike

Examples of Futures Options

You can find examples of futures options on many types of futures contracts. Stock market indexes and commodities are two markets that have options available to trade. Interest rate and foreign exchange markets also have futures markets with options. You can construct options strategies in these markets including defined-risk plays such as a collar in options.

The Takeaway

Options on futures allow investors to make bets on futures contracts with lower capital requirements than the futures themselves, which is also lower than the capital they’d need to trade the underlying asset. Instead, puts and calls are used.

So in that case, an option on a futures contract gives the holder the right, but not the obligation, to buy or sell a futures contract at a predetermined price usually on a pre-specified expiration date. Trading options and futures is a low risk way to access the futures market.

Qualified investors who are ready to try their hand at options trading, despite the risks involved, might consider checking out SoFi’s options trading platform. The platform’s user-friendly design allows investors to trade through the mobile app or web platform, and get important metrics like breakeven percentage, maximum profit/loss, and more with the click of a button.

Plus, SoFi offers educational resources — including a step-by-step in-app guide — to help you learn more about options trading. Trading options involves high-risk strategies, and should be undertaken by experienced investors.

With SoFi, user-friendly options trading is finally here.

FAQ

Can you trade options on futures?

Yes, you will need to open an account with a broker that offers this type of trading. There might be high capital requirements to meet in order to open an option on a futures trading account.

How do you buy futures?

Futures contracts can be bought through a futures trading brokerage company or directly at an exchange. Most retail traders go through a brokerage company. Not all brokerage firms offer these products, however.

What is the difference between futures and options?

Futures obligate the buyer to purchase an asset and a seller to deliver that asset unless the option buyer’s position is closed by the expiration date.

Options give the buyer the right, but not the obligation, to buy or sell an asset at a specified price during the life of a contract, while potentially creating an obligation for the seller (of the option) to buy or sell the underlying asset if the buyer exercises that option.

Photo credit: iStock/Drs Producoes

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The information provided is not meant to provide investment or financial advice. Also, past performance is no guarantee of future results.
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Options involve risks, including substantial risk of loss and the possibility an investor may lose the entire amount invested in a short period of time. Before an investor begins trading options they should familiarize themselves with the Characteristics and Risks of Standardized Options . Tax considerations with options transactions are unique, investors should consult with their tax advisor to understand the impact to their taxes.
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Source: sofi.com

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A city that needs no introduction, Las Vegas is a glittering oasis in the heart of the Nevada desert. From its inception as a humble railroad stopover to becoming a global entertainment icon, Las Vegas has etched its name into the annals of history. Instantly recognizable for its neon-lit skyline, iconic resort casinos, and high energy, Las Vegas is where fantasy becomes reality. But what exactly is Las Vegas known for? Whether you’re looking to rent an apartment in Las Vegas or purchase a home in the area, prepare to uncover what makes this beautiful city what it is today.

World-class casinos

Las Vegas boasts several famous casinos that have become synonymous with luxury, excitement, and indulgence. From the Flamingo, the first major resort on the Strip, to the Bellagio with its famous dancing fountains, these casinos offer numerous gaming options, from slot machines and table games to poker rooms and sports betting. Each casino has its unique theme and atmosphere, transporting visitors to different corners of the world. Not to mention, the architecture, interior designs, and entertainment options, including live performances and celebrity chef restaurants, make Las Vegas casinos a haven for those seeking a one-of-a-kind entertainment experience.

Being a global entertainment epicenter

From residency shows featuring artists like Kelly Clarkson, Elton John, Adele, and Luke Bryan, to Cirque du Soleil productions such as “O” and “Mystère,” the city’s theaters and venues offer many different types of live entertainment. Beyond music and theater, Las Vegas has many attractions along or close to the strip, including the Bellagio Fountains, the High Roller observation wheel, and the Mirage Volcano. The city’s nightlife is equally renowned, with its vibrant nightclubs and bars drawing international DJs and partygoers.

Thrilling outdoor adventures

Las Vegas offers exhilarating outdoor adventures for those exploring the surrounding region. Within a short distance, visitors can go on desert excursions, such as off-roading adventures in rugged terrains, guided ATV tours through Red Rock Canyon’s stunning landscapes, or even dune buggy rides across the sand dunes of the Mojave Desert. For the more adventurous, opportunities for rock climbing, hiking, and rappelling in nearby canyons like the picturesque Valley of Fire provide a unique blend of adrenaline and breathtaking scenery. Additionally, the nearby Colorado River invites visitors to engage in activities like kayaking, paddleboarding, and even white-water rafting. 

The Las Vegas Strip 

The Las Vegas Strip is a world-famous thoroughfare stretching approximately 4.2 miles along Las Vegas Boulevard South. This iconic street features resort casinos, dazzling neon lights, and bustling crowds. Each resort along the Strip has its own unique theme, from the elegant Venetian with its intricate replica of Venice’s canals to the pyramid-shaped Luxor and the extravagant Paris Las Vegas. The Strip is not only a hub of gambling and gaming, but it also offers entertainment, from mesmerizing theatrical productions to world-class concerts by renowned artists.

Unique landmarks

Las Vegas has unique landmarks that contribute to its distinctive and iconic character. The famed Las Vegas Strip is a remarkable landmark, but there are many other attractions to check out. Some of which include the Neon Boneyard (which showcases a dazzling collection of vintage neon signs), the “Pawn Stars” Gold & Silver Pawn Shop, and the unconventional and artistic Container Park. 

Fine dining 

Las Vegas has established itself as a global culinary destination, offering an exquisite array of fine dining experiences. Renowned for celebrity chef restaurants, the city boasts a culinary landscape where innovation meets luxury. From the elegant and contemporary ambiance of Joël Robuchon at the MGM Grand to the sophisticated Italian cuisine of Carbone at ARIA, these establishments elevate dining to an art form. Notably, the Wynn and Encore resorts house a collection of fine dining gems, including SW Steakhouse and Wing Lei, the first Chinese restaurant in the U.S. to earn a Michelin star. 

Fremont Street

Often referred to as the “original Las Vegas,” Fremont Street boasts a rich history dating back to the city’s early days, lined with vintage casinos, neon signs, and a distinctive retro charm. The renowned Fremont Street Experience, a massive canopy of LED lights, hosts dazzling light shows and concerts, immersing visitors in a visual display. The street is also home to some of Las Vegas’s oldest and most iconic casinos, including the Golden Nugget and Binion’s. Street performers and live music are common throughout all parts of the day.

Source: redfin.com

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Finding a new space or new city to live in is very exciting, however, getting all your belongings to the new apartment is no fun. You have to spend your free time packing, finding a moving company and going through that hall closet you’ve been avoiding for months. Don’t worry too much because we have you covered with these packing hacks and tips.

29 packing hacks to make packing and moving a breeze

Where do you even begin packing? What size boxes do you need? What should you get rid of? These are questions we’ve all had before. The truth is there’s no right way or place to start. Here are 29 packing hacks to make your move smoother and more efficient.

1. Create a schedule

The beginning of any move is overwhelming, to say the least. There’s so much to do, but where do you start? That’s where creating a moving schedule comes into play. If you have a busy life — and most of us do — then a schedule is going to help you get everything done in time for moving day. You could pack one room a day. You could back all similar items — blankets, linens, towels — each day. Or, you could assign different items to each family member to pack as part of the schedule.

2. Have a checklist

After you’ve created your moving schedule, create a moving checklist of everything important you need to remember to do. Write down everything from hiring movers to canceling your Wi-Fi plan. By doing this, you’ll feel more in control while moving.

3. Change your address

Before you’re anywhere near being completely packed, you should change your address. Give the post office a two-week notice so they can send your mail to the correct address.

4. Fill nail holes with a bar of soap

Every renter wants their security deposit back when they move out. To do that, you have to make sure your apartment looks great when you leave it. When you go to take down the art you’ve hung on the wall, you’ll find a couple of nail holes left behind. An easy way to fix this is by using a bar of soap to fill the hole. Rub the bar of soap over the hole until it’s completely filled in.

5. Color code

Color coding is a great way to keep all your boxed organized. All you need is different colored packing tape. As long as you remember which color means and the original box you put each item in, you’re good to go. For example, the yellow tape could mean dishware and blue tape is bedding.

6. Make an overnight bag

Before you pack any boxes, start by packing an overnight bag. The unpacking process takes a couple of days at least. In the meantime, you’ll want some of your essentials. It’s a good idea to have a change of clothes, one pair of shoes, some toiletries, toilet paper and maybe even a first aid kit on hand for those first couple of days in your new place. You can also put the valuable electronics you need access to in your overnight bag.

7. Purge

You know that old sweater in the back of your closet that you swear you’ll wear one day but deep inside know you won’t? It’s time to rid yourself of it and give it a new home. When you start to pack, consider going through your belongings and getting rid of unwanted items. It’s best to do this before you pack as it saves space in the long run. Plus, you’ll move into your new space with fewer items and feel more organized.

8. Sell what you don’t want

Once you have a pile of items to get rid of, consider selling them or giving them away. You could let your friends have first dibs, sell them on eBay or donate them to places like Goodwill.

9. Pre-clean your new home

Once you start unloading your things into your new home it’s nothing but a sea of boxes. If you have access to your apartment, take some time before moving to clean all your new home’s empty spaces. This way when you get there you might have a lot of boxes but everything is clean and ready to go.

10. Eat up

It’s enough to have to pack all your things but packing food is a monster in its own right. If you can, it’s a good idea to try to eat what you can before you move. This way you won’t have to try and pack your pantry or worry about your perishables going bad along the way.

11. Take photos of your furniture assembly

As you start to unassemble the bigger items of your home, such as couches or bedframes, take photos along the way. This will help you later on when you’re re-assembling them in your new space. You could also video yourself disassembling furniture so you know where all the screws go so you’re left with one stray screw.

12. Group the boxes

Now it’s time to put things into boxes. No matter if you’re using cardboard boxes, wardrobe boxes or plastic bins, it’s a great idea to group them. Have all the bathroom and bedroom items in separate boxes. You’ll probably need multiple boxes for each room. When you’re done packing everything by group, put all the boxes together by room or use. This will make unpacking so much easier.

13. Label, label, label

Labeling your boxes is one of those tried and true packing hacks. If you need to find things, labeling will make each box easily accessible. Staying organized ahead of time will make all the difference in your move.

14. Use clear bins

Pack things you’ll need or want first in clear bins. Seeing through them will give you easy access to your belongings. Pack items, such as clothes, toiletries or important documents, in these bins.

15. Roll your clothes

A good moving and travel packing hack is to roll your clothing instead of folding them. This will save you a lot of space and will allow you to put more in each box.

16. Make your own handles

We all know boxes are not the easiest things to carry. However, you can cut your own handles.

First, you’ll need a box cutter. Next, you’re going to cut a small rectangle on each side of the box. Once you’ve cut through the cardboard, you’ll now have two rectangular holes, which are now your handles. You can do this with large boxes and small boxes alike and will save your fingers in the long run.

17. Pack your jewelry tangle-free

While jewelry is pretty to wear, it’s a pain to untangle. There’s nothing worse than going to grab your necklace and realizing it’s attached to every other piece of jewelry you own.

To avoid this, get a couple of ice cube trays, depending on how much jewelry you have. Fill each slot with your jewelry, giving everything its own space. Once you have it all organized, cover it with plastic wrap and boom you’re good to go.

Say you have all your jewelry already organized on hangers well, there’s a way to pack that, too. Just plastic wrap the entire thing and pack it as one. That way when you get to your new home it’s all ready to go.

18. Keep clothes on hangers

Do not, under any circumstances, take your hanging clothes off their hangers when packing. Keeping them hanging up will save time and maximize space during your move. Put plastic bags around the bottom of the clothes to keep them together and organized. When you get into your new apartment, all you have to hang them up in the new closet you’re done.

19. Don’t empty your dresser drawers

Instead of taking the time to empty and refill your dresser drawers, just leave them how they are. Just put a piece of tape on the drawers or cabinets to ensure they stay closed. Just pack the dresser carefully and you’re all set.

20. Plastic wrap

Plastic wrap is your new best friend when you’re moving. You can use it for so many things, from keeping items together to adding an extra layer of protection to boxes. Make sure to have some on hand before you start packing.

21. Say goodbye to bubble wrap

Let’s be honest, who hasn’t enjoyed popping a few sheets of bubble wrap here and there? While it’s a fun pastime and oddly satisfying, it’s also expensive. There are some other ways to ensure your fragile items make it in one piece.

Instead of using air-filled plastic, consider using your own clothing or your kids’ stuffed animals. Pack your fragile goods in between two sweatshirts or put your china next to Mr. Bear and Ms. Bunny. You can also consider packing paper to pack glasses or plates. This will save you from having to use more moving boxes than you need to.

22. Use garbage bags or any plastic bag to save space

Garbage bags and plastic bags are good ways to pack things, such as bed sheets, blankets, comforters or pillows. This will allow you to keep all your bedding together without having to use a single box.

23. Use cotton balls for makeup safety

As a lot of us know, make-up is expensive and to save money, we want it to last as long as possible. When moving, there’s always the risk of items, such as blush or other powders, breaking in transport. A way to avoid this is to put a cotton ball or pad inside the make-up case.

24. Make your bottles spill-proof

Having your skincare or make-up explode while moving is the worst. Your best bet to keep this from happening is cotton balls. Put either one on the top of the bottle before screwing on the lid. This way, if it does decide to explode, you’ll at least trap moisture on the cotton ball or plastic will catch it. For a bit of extra caution, wrap your bottles in packing paper to catch any liquid that might escape the cotton balls under the lids.

25. Take a photo of your electronics

Before you unplug your T.V. and other electronics creating a mountain of cords, take a photo first of how it should look. You’ll be so grateful you did when you go to plug it all back in. You won’t waste time trying to figure out which cord goes where.

26. Make use of laundry bins and suitcases

While you can use moving boxes, it’s also a good idea to use bins you already have on hand, such as bags, suitcases and laundry bins. You can use these to put your clothing in to make it a bit easier when you unpack. Or, put your lighter items like toilet paper or paper towels in them instead of taking up space in other boxes.

27. Feed your friends

If you have friends that will help you move, congrats! You’re winning at life. While your friends are generous, it’s also important for you to thank them. A great way of doing this is by feeding them. On moving day, have some things to snack on to keep your friends full and happy while they’re helping you.

If you still have things you want to use up in your pantry, now is a great time to do that. You can also always order a pizza or have a little get-together at the end of moving day to show thanks.

28. Hire a moving truck

Even if you have friends that are willing to help, it’s still a good tip to use a truck and or movers. A moving truck ensures you have enough space to fit all your boxes and bags. It can also save you from making multiple trips to get your things.

If you don’t have friends that can help you out, then, hiring professional movers or a moving company is another one of the best moving tips to consider. You should always do your homework, though, before hiring anyone. Check out a couple of different companies to see who has the best pricing and remember to always read reviews. This will save you a lot of hassle in the end.

29. Load your moving truck correctly

When the time comes to load up the truck, make sure to do it correctly. Start by putting the things you need last towards the back and the boxes you’ll need first in the front.

Stress-free packing for your next move

We all know that packing and moving is a hassle. While we can’t take all the stress away, we know that these 29 packing hacks will make your move smoother, more organized and efficient and, hopefully, stress-free.

Source: rent.com

Apache is functioning normally

Over the past few years a Greek real-estate boom has gained momentum as hard times have taken prices down. So, news that Chinese buyers are maxing out their investments comes as no surprise.

Greece is an amazing value since the recession seems to have ended

Taking advantage of Greece’s “Golden Visa” program, Chinese and other non-EU investors can attain residence permits to Greece and the greater EU area, if they only invest €250,000 euro in real estate.

According to Carrie Law, who is the CEO of Juwai.com, the property portal of choice for Chinese consumers, the number of Greece property requests has quadrupled over the last few months. In fact, Chinese buying inquiries increased by 137.5 percent in the third quarter alone, according to Law.

At the other end of the spectrum, Greek real estate agents are now keen to capitalize on the boom in Chinese investment. China worldwide real-estate investment reached $119 plus billions in 2017, and 2018’s figures are now well past $123 billion. And where Greece is concerned, it’s not only the Chinese who are focused on potential boom markets. This Forbes report spotlights Germany, Greece, Cyprus, and Malta as European countries with immense potential. Market expert Panos Mourdoukoutas also points to the added bonus of “Citizenship” for foreigners who buy properties tied to such visa programs.

In addition, a recent study by Arbitrage Real Estate showed that major investment groups such as Apollo Global Management, PIMCO and Bain Capital had in their non-performing loan portfolios, some 140 Greek hotel properties valued at over 282 million euros. According to the news from GTP, Yannis Orfanos, an investment management executive at Arbitrage is cited saying:

“Based on current data, 75 percent of hotel exposures secured by real estate collateral, either due to size and location or due to poor quality and need of renovations, do not interest large hotel chains or international investors in the sector. These are, however, an opportunity for certain international travel agents and domestic unit managers seeking quality 3-star hotels, and generally larger hotels in popular up-and-coming tourist destinations.”

Finally, property brokers Tranio and the Bank of Greece have provided amplification of Greece’s newfound popularity with investors. According to the brokerage firm, the Bank of Greece report on the record number of foreign tourists hitting Greece exceeding 32 million by the end of 2018 will impact both hotel and private property (Airbnb) investments.

Greek real estate reached a record high back in 2017 with the total value of transactions with foreign investors rising above €328 million euros, a figure that was twice the 2016 investment. Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) for that year exceeded €3.6 billion euros according to the Bank of Greece. George Kachmazov, founder and managing partner Tranio offered this statement:

“The current low real estate prices and high demand contribute to higher returns for investors. Thus, the net yield on the short-term rent of a renovated city centre apartment in Athens is 5–7 percent per annum vs 3 percent in most European capitals. Moreover, there is potential for real estate prices to grow by 20-30 percent over the next two or three years.” 

Greece has unbelievable property values compared to many European markets

Back in the Summer, the hedge fund Dromeus Capital announced plans to invest €200 million euros ($231.82 million) in Greek commercial real estate. I mention this because Greek Advantage, Dromeus’ first fund launched way back in October 2012, ended up returning an annualized 15.2 percent return since launch. Clearly, the advantages of investing in markets that have bottomed out is taking hold in Greece. For those still skeptical, I say “follow the small time Israeli investor.” This story tells of up and coming Israeli investors looking to Greece for the big win as the country bottoms out of a huge recession. Reporting from here in Heraklion, Crete, I’d advise any would-be investor to pay close attention to the success stories of these Israeli entrepreneurs. That is, if Chinese billions are not convincing enough.

Phil Butler is a former engineer, contractor, and telecommunications professional who is editor of several influential online media outlets including part owner of Pamil Visions with wife Mihaela. Phil began his digital ramblings via several of the world’s most noted tech blogs, at the advent of blogging as a form of journalistic license. Phil is currently top interviewer, and journalist at Realty Biz News.

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Source: realtybiznews.com

Apache is functioning normally

Bookshelves are an essential tool in your styling arsenal. Book collections are the no-brainer way to add personality to a room. But sometimes you need a breath of fresh air and this week’s Idea to Steal is just that.

What if, instead a cacophony of random titles, all those different colors and fonts screaming at you, you just turned the spines around?! Suddenly, you have a soft, neutral and monochromatic look.

My dear friend Kirsten of Simply Grove actually caught a ton of flack for this concept when she debuted it back in 2010, but my how things change!

Nearly three years later the look is popping up everywhere. And given that I love pretty much every idea Kirsten ever has, of course, I’m loving this too. In fact, we already tried it in a little corner of the loft. I’ll be sharing a sneak peek on Instagram later today!

What do you think? Are you a fan of the anonymous bookshelf idea?

image 1 piero lissoni showroom // image 2 by joshua simpson for remodelista // image 3 by alexis toureau for maison & deco

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Source: apartment34.com