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It’s important to understand your rights as a renter.

The landlord-tenant relationship is complex. Each party’s responsibilities can vary by city, state and lease agreement. But federal, local and state laws secure renters’ rights.

The first step in exercising your tenants’ rights is to understand what those rights (and the laws that protect them) actually are. The second is to learn how to take action if someone violates your rights.

In this guide:

The right to fair housing

The Fair Housing Act of 1968 makes it illegal for landlords to discriminate based on race, sex, age, religion, nationality, family status or mental or physical disability. The Fair Housing Act applies to most rental units. There are exceptions for small rental properties, private clubs and religious organizations.

The law protects current renters and prospective tenants from discrimination for any of the reasons listed above. This discrimination can take many forms.

Federal Fair Housing Act protections

Sex, race, family status, age, religion, disability or national origin are examples of protected classes under the FHA. Landlords can’t refuse to rent to or negotiate with someone because of their protected status. They can’t set different terms or conditions, ask a renter to move out or force them to pay different fees or higher rent.

It’s against the law to state that only renters with particular physical and mental abilities or familial status can rent an apartment. The same goes for people of a certain age, race, sex or nationality. This applies to verbal statements and advertising, too. It’s also illegal for landlords to harass, intimidate, bribe or interfere with a renter’s right to equitable accommodation.

Definition of familial status

A landlord can’t refuse to rent to families with kids under 18 or discriminate against people seeking custody of children under 18. Landlords can’t deny legal guardians or pregnant women a home unless there’s a legal reason to do so.

Definition of sex

It’s against the law to only rent to men or women. Landlords also can’t discriminate because of a renter’s sexual orientation or gender identity. The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) offers resources, especially for LGBTQ+ renters.

Other protected classes

Certain state laws extend additional protections. Some make it illegal to discriminate because a renter receives alimony, child support or public assistance. Others ban discrimination based on physical characteristics like tattoos and piercings.

Search by state to learn about the laws in your area. If someone violates your rights, contact an organization on this list, reach out to an attorney or law firm or file a claim with HUD.

Rights for disabled tenants

The FHA and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) protect renters with physical and mental disabilities. Under these laws, landlords must provide safe and accessible rental homes to residents with disabilities.

The ADA requires that common spaces are accessible. The FHA requires that most apartments, rental homes and condos built after March 13, 1991, include wheelchair-accessible doors, hallways and living spaces. Homes built before that date must have grab rails, accessible outlets and light switches, TTY phone systems, visual alarms and other accessible features put in place. Learn more about your rights in our accessible apartment guide.

If a landlord won’t rent to you or refuses to make reasonable accommodations so you can live in your home, you could file a complaint. Contact a Fair Housing Assistance Program (FHAP) or file a claim with HUD. Hiring an attorney with experience in discrimination claims can increase your chance of success.

The right to a habitable home

You have the right to a habitable home. That means the home you rent is a clean, safe space with access to heat and water. It’s structurally sound and free from pests.

A habitable home isn’t a threat to your physical health. A landlord must provide working safety measures like fire extinguishers, carbon monoxide and smoke detectors and fire alarms in your apartment. Most states require landlords to tell renters about environmental hazards like asbestos or mold before signing a lease.

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and HUD also require landlords to tell prospective renters about lead paint in buildings built before 1978. Both parties must acknowledge the presence of lead paint in writing before the tenants move in. Landlords aren’t obligated to remove lead-based paint, just acknowledge it.

In most other cases, the landlord or property management team is responsible for removing toxins and making the rental home safe to live in. This doesn’t apply to damage caused by the current tenant.

Tenant rights include access to timely repairs and maintenance. A landlord will often include a timeframe for completing repairs. The lease may provide additional details about timing.

The right to privacy and notice for landlord visits

This is one of the most common landlord-tenant issues. Thankfully, renters’ rights are quite clear on the subject.

A landlord or property owner might own your apartment, but they can’t just barge in whenever they want. Landlords can only enter under certain circumstances. These include making or assessing repairs and showing rental units to insurance or mortgage professionals and prospective renters.

Landlords don’t need permission to enter during emergency situations like a fire or natural disaster. They can also come in if they think a tenant abandoned an apartment.

Most states require a landlord to give advance notice before entering an apartment, usually 24-48 hours. Rental agreements may provide more details.

Tenants have the right to request another date or time for a landlord’s visit. But they can’t deny them access if they have a valid reason to enter.

The right to fair credit reporting

The Fair Credit Reporting Act of 1970 gives renters the right to know what’s in their credit reports. If a property manager or landlord rejects your application, they have to disclose where they got the information. They also have to tell you how to contact the issuer. You just need to request this information from your landlord in writing.

This protects tenant rights because landlords have to provide evidence of bad credit. They can’t just deny your application for no reason. It can also catch clerical errors and alert you to possible identity theft.

Rights regarding notice of evictions

Evictions are one of the most difficult landlord-tenant issues. Landlords can legally evict a tenant for several reasons. These include nonpayment of rent, violating the terms of the rental agreement, significant property damage and failing to move out after a lease ends. The eviction process and eviction laws vary from state to state.

A landlord must follow the law in their state. Renters have the right to receive an eviction notice that details the reason for eviction. It must also provide a time frame for the eviction process. Residents should respond in writing and offer a solution that resolves the problem, if possible. (Eviction resources are available.) Once an eviction goes to court, the process is more difficult to stop.

If landlord-tenant communication breaks down and the issue isn’t resolved, the case goes to eviction court. If bad landlords try to evict tenants without an eviction court order, renters can get damages. Contact a lawyer or law firm immediately.

An eviction can damage your credit and make it hard to find a home in a safe location. Hiring a lawyer can help.

“Nationwide, only 10 percent of tenants are able to secure representation in eviction cases, compared to 90 percent of landlords,” Emily Benfer of the Princeton University Eviction Lab explains. “Where tenants are not represented, the vast majority lose their case.”

The right to recover a security deposit

Renters also have the right to have their security deposit returned at the end of a lease. Many rental agreements require security deposits to fix damage caused by residents or a pet. Security deposits are also used to cover incomplete rent payments.

Landlords can use a security deposit to fix the damaged rental unit or to pay off unpaid rent. But they need to provide the renter with an itemized list of expenses for which the landlord used the security deposit. They also need to return the unused portion of the security deposit to the tenant.

A renter should know local laws since some states limit how you can use security deposits and how large they are. Certain security deposits (like pet security deposits) aren’t refundable. Check your lease for the details.

The right to quiet enjoyment

Residents have the right to quiet enjoyment, called “Covenant of Quiet Enjoyment” in a lease. It guarantees residents the right to enjoy their rental property without “substantial interference” from a landlord.

If a landlord starts hammering nails in the middle of the night or fails to enforce quiet hours or no-smoking rules, they could be in violation. Refusing to repair a rental unit until it becomes uninhabitable, revving engines or throwing loud parties would be a violation, too.

A renter who can prove their landlord acted in bad faith could earn monetary damages or a full or partial rent refund. A lawyer who specializes in landlord-tenant issues will be an important ally.

Protect your rights

Now that you’ve reviewed your rights, you understand the protections provided by the law and your lease. If you’re a victim of discrimination or another legal issue, there’s more work ahead.

You may need to report a renters’ rights violation or file a landlord-tenant dispute. You might need to file a claim, challenge an eviction or take legal action.

Read the rental agreement

If you’re not sure if your landlord has violated your tenants’ rights, re-read your lease carefully. It can provide evidence to support your case or clarify a legal issue.

In a perfect world, you received a copy of your lease when you signed it. Some states must provide a copy of your lease agreement after you move in and after every annual renewal.

Otherwise, you can request a copy of your rental agreement from your landlord or management company in writing. That’s a good habit to get into for all landlord-tenant communications.

Document everything

Get everything in writing when documenting a legal issue. You need clear evidence and an organized system for keeping track of all the details.

“Documentation is important, whether you’re talking to a lawyer, going through the court system or going through a housing discrimination case,” says Kelly Gorz, Associate Director of High Plains Fair Housing Center in Grand Forks, North Dakota.

“Keep track of any kind of communication you have with your landlord — any emails, texts, receipts. Keep a notebook. If you talk to them in person, write down the date, what you asked for and what they said. Take pictures at move-in and walk-out. Take videos. Definitely don’t pay in cash. Make sure you have some kind of record of payment, whether that’s a check or certified mail.”

Study tenant rights in your state

Legal protections for renters vary widely by state and territory. They can even vary from city to city, so research the laws in your location thoroughly.

“Contact local fair housing offices and your city planning and development offices, too,” suggests Gorz. “They are very connected to their local community resources.”

Renters in HUD housing can call 1-800-MULTI-70 (1-800-685-8470). Assistance is available in English and Spanish. HUD also details tenant rights organizations and services by state and territory.

Some state attorney general websites also have information for renters. Enter your state to learn if yours is one of them.

Report discrimination to a partner agency

Reporting discrimination can feel overwhelming. Filing a claim with a community organization that specializes in FHA issues can make the process feel more manageable.

A renter can usually work directly with an organization in its own state. Staff members serve as advocates for renters who are filing an FHA claim, facing an eviction notice or dealing with another legal issue. Some can provide a lawyer or other legal services, while others provide free education and outreach.

Report FHA violations to HUD on the phone

Renters can also report housing discrimination complaints directly to HUD by calling 1-800-669-9777. The TTY is 1-800-927-9275. It’s always free to call.

Provide your name and address, as well as the name and address of the person who discriminated against you. Include the date the violation occurred, the address of the rental property and a brief description of the incident.

If HUD finds evidence of discrimination against a renter and the case goes to court, HUD will provide a lawyer for free. A renter can also retain their own attorney.

Report discrimination to HUD in writing

Tenants can also provide these details in writing. File an online complaint in Spanish or English on the HUD website.

Or, download this form and mail or email it to the closest regional office. The form is also available in Arabic, Spanish, Chinese, Korean, Russian, Somali, Cambodian and Vietnamese.

Retain an attorney

If you’ve been a victim of discrimination, you’ll need a lawyer that specializes in discrimination cases. If you’re challenging an eviction or you’re in the middle of a landlord-tenant dispute, select an experienced landlord-tenant attorney.

Free legal help is also available. Search by state to find a pro bono attorney or law firm in your area.

Challenge unmade repairs

If a landlord doesn’t make necessary repairs or the apartment is uninhabitable, renters have options. First, submit a request for repairs in writing and document any response.

Next, check your city and state’s maintenance laws. Information is often available at the local housing or building authority office. The health departments or fire stations might also provide help.

If the problem violates building or health codes or the apartment isn’t safe to live in, contact local authorities. Inspectors may order the landlord to fix the problem.

Knowledge is power

Every renter should know and understand their rights. That’s the first step to preserving them. And if your landlord violates your rights are violated, take the necessary steps to resolve the issues so you can enjoy a safe and happy home.

Source: rent.com

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Rugs that have your back through life’s messes.

When decorating your space, you don’t have to sacrifice convenience for style. Machine-washable rugs are here to prove just that.

With various materials, patterns and sizes to choose from, you can easily find one that suits your taste, fits your room and is life-proof. Whether you need a rug for a bustling living room or a cozy bedroom, these rugs add a touch of flair and save you the hassle of difficult cleaning.

Image source: Amazon

A great living room decorating tip is selecting a statement piece to decorate around. This can be any piece of furniture, a rug or canvas art that breaks apart the neutrality of other decor pieces while bringing out your unique style.

The VK Living Vintage Rug will not only make your living room vibrant but is sure to withstand the wear and tear of kids, pets and accidental messes. Available in other colors and sizes, this rug perfectly balances durability with style options for your personal taste.

Image source: Amazon

In minimalist design, each element in the space must be meticulously considered for its individual merit and its relation to the whole design. When it comes to breaking up the monotony, geometric patterns are a must to incorporate in the space.

This washable rug from nuLOOM is neutral while visually interesting. No need to worry about pet stains: You can throw this rug into a regular cold wash cycle to return it back to its original, polished state.

Image source: Amazon

Cooking is a labor of love. Some dishes take longer than others and some are messier than others. In these instances, it’s helpful to have a comfy rug to stand on that can handle a few splatters of food.

The solution for your kitchen is LEEVAN’s Washable Kitchen Rugs. Available in five stylish colors, this rug is the perfect partner for your kitchen when it comes to practicality and finesse.

Image source: Amazon

Barbiecore has taken over the design world following the release and reception of the Barbie movie. Incorporating pink into your decor can feel overwhelming since pink is a vibrant statement color. A great place to start is smaller pieces like placemats and art canvases to ease your way into the pink color scheme.

Try the Wonnitar Modern Ombre Small Rug as a bath placemat or small bedside runner. This washable pink accent rug is sure to withstand wear while turning your room or bathroom into a Barbie-themed haven.

Image source: Amazon

Whether you’re channeling your inner coastal grandmother or actually living shoreside, decorating with the beach in mind is enjoyable. In your decor search, it’s important to consider a rug that can withstand the temperament and changes in the weather alongside life’s everyday messes as well.

The Tritard Coastal Sea Turtles Area Rug is sure to keep relaxation at the forefront of your mind with its combination of durability and cuteness. Also available in other beachy patterns and sizes, this stain-resistant rug is perfect indoors or outdoors.

Image source: Amazon

Loving the pets in your life is easy, it’s the clean-up that’s hard. The messes of a pet are unpredictable and it’s important, as a pet owner, to buy pieces that can withstand the wear and tear caused by our beloved animals.

The Ophanie Machine Washable Rug is not only soft and comfy but is machine washable, perfect for unpredictable but inevitable accidents. Additionally, this rug comes in six color options and is slip-resistant, adding to its durability and pet-friendly repertoire.

Image source: Amazon

There are some rooms that don’t have a specific shape or purpose, leaving the window of creativity wide open. A unique room, like a sunroom, sitting room or office even, calls for a unique rug.

This HEBE Boho Round Area Rug is the perfect addition to your undefined room. Whether you’re reading a book or working on a project, this washable rug under your feet is sure to provide comfort and happiness through its distinctive bohemian flair.

Image source: Amazon

The one room that requires the most color and vibrancy is arguably the kiddo’s room. This space should inspire creativity, enhance moods and reflect a child-like fun feel through decor. What makes decorating a kid’s space difficult is making sure the furniture and finishings are stain-resistant or easily washable.

The child-proof Lahome Pink Carpet is perfect for brightening up a room while offering peace of mind. The washable rug is available in other colors and is a parent’s functional favorite.

Image source: Amazon

An often-forgotten decor item is a runner rug. Runner rugs lay in slimmer aisleways and hallways, standing as a focal point where other furniture may not fit. These runners, while slender, tend to be attention-grabbing.

This stunning YOUFORTONG Runner Rug is perfect for your doorway. It’s guaranteed to leave a lasting impression on guests as they enter the home and as they say their goodbyes. While it’s sure to collect quite a bit of tread due to its placement, it’s machine washable and durable.

Image source: Amazon

Spooky season is upon us and for those who love to lean into the festive spirit, themed decorations are an absolute must. Since holidays like Halloween come once a year, it’s important the decorations are washable after sitting in storage until their time to shine rolls around.

This funky Estmy Spider Web Halloween Rug is the perfect festive piece to get into the spooky spirit. Also nonslip, this rug is sure to stay put through Halloween stories and fireside tales.

Image source: Amazon

Maximalism happily lives on the opposite end of the design spectrum from minimalism. In all its colorful and fun-pattered glory, maximalism leans into taking things to the max. Mix-matched patterns and vibrant color schemes fill the rooms of those brave enough to tread into the funky design territory.

Revival Rugs Gambit rug is eclectic and sure to bring spice to any maximalist room. Washable and cushioned means comfort and durability among the carefully curated maximalism madness.

Live smarter, not harder

Washable rugs are a blessing among the chaos that comes with everyday life. Between pet stains, kid wear and accidents, it’s nice to know a quick toss in the wash can return your beloved statement piece back to its original state. Make an investment that’s sure to keep you and your wallet happy.

Wesley is a Charlotte-based writer with a degree in Mass Communication from the University of South Carolina. Her background includes 6 years in non-profit communication and 4 years in editorial writing. She’s passionate about traveling, volunteering, cooking and drinking her morning iced coffee. When she’s not writing, you can find her relaxing with family or exploring Charlotte with her friends.

Source: rent.com

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Apartment inspections aren’t just for when you move in or move out. As stipulated in the lease agreement, your property manager may stop by your apartment with notice to check on the property’s condition and make sure there aren’t any lease violations.

These routine inspections aren’t something to be afraid of. They help maintain clean, functional apartments and avoid expensive repairs or destroyed property beyond normal wear and tear. For example, if not caught early, water damage becomes a bigger problem.

Asking for more details about how a landlord does a routine inspection of the property is also a great question to ask during your tour of apartment complexes. Here’s what to expect.

Apartment inspection: What to expect

So what is an apartment inspection? You’re used to a move-in inspection when renting a new apartment. In this case, the property manager will walk the unit with you for a routine rental property check.

They’ll be looking for noticeable things, like how clean the apartment is and if any damage stands out. They’ll also look into things a tenant might not think about often like if smoke detectors are working, a pest problem, or any appliances need to be replaced. This is done to both keep the apartment safe and make sure tenants aren’t damaging property.

How many times does a landlord inspect an apartment? In most apartments, tenants don’t need to worry about apartment inspections happening every week or even every month. Landlords usually perform inspections just before a tenant moves in or out or do quarterly inspections.

How much notice should your landlord give?

It’s standard for landlords to give proper notice of 24-48 hours for an apartment inspection. Look at your lease agreement, as there should be a clause detailing the notice period before apartment inspections occur post move-in.

If the date is inconvenient for you or you need more time to prepare, talk to the property owners with plenty of time to agree on a mutual date to do a walk-through of the unit. Make sure to have all communications in writing and confirm whether the inspection will take place with you present.

Can you say no to an apartment inspection?

You can say no to routine inspections depending on your state’s tenant rights. Find out how much notice you need from the landlord to inspect your new apartment.

The property manager will eventually need access to your apartment (they have the legal right), but it can be on your own terms. In an apartment complex, you can let the property manager know you have pets and would like to be present, for example.

There are laws in most states that require a landlord to give written notice before they come to do apartment inspections, so you’ll know if someone is coming to perform an inspection of the property.

Make sure you know the exact laws for the state where you’re living — some require a 24-hour notice, while others may only require “reasonable notice” from most landlords.

What happens during the apartment inspection?

Landlords often have inspection checklists that they go through that reflect clauses agreed upon in the lease terms. A landlord inspection is also a great time to show wear and tear in the property — cracked window seals, broken appliances, broken windows, walls, bathroom, mold, plumbing or issues with fire safety.

Apartment inspection checklist

You must be prepared for apartment inspections, ensure everything is in good shape, and do any minor repairs before the walk-through. It will be similar to your move-in inspection, except the landlord will do the apartment inspections this time. Get your housekeeping skills ready for the routine check.

At the rental property, landlords will follow an inspection checklist and look at (but are not limited to the following):

  • Walls for any repairs or unpatched holes
  • Scuff marks on the floor or damage to carpets
  • Smoke detectors
  • Issues with appliances, including the exhaust fan
  • Water damage
  • Windows and if they open and close
  • Cabinets and any signs of mold
  • Front door and locks

With regular maintenance, landlords should take just a short time to inspect the property. Submitting maintenance requests regularly without delay will also help get a good inspection.

Check out our apartment maintenance checklist for simple tips for renters to stay on top of regular apartment maintenance and make every inspection a breeze. Doing this will also help you get your security deposit back.

What if you fail your apartment inspection?

It’s essential when renting to follow lease terms closely to avoid any issues as a renter. If you fail an apartment inspection, your landlord could evict you or fine you for the repairs needed to the unit. You can also lose out on your security deposit and any future referrals from the property manager.

You may fail your apartment inspection if:

  • You have pets in an apartment that is not pet-friendly or doesn’t meet the apartment complex’s regulations. This includes too many pets, types of pets and breeds outside of the rules
  • You sublet your apartment against the lease terms or keep guests for longer than it’s allowed by your landlord
  • You smoke in the apartment regularly, and the smell has seeped into the walls
  • You keep a dirty apartment and have developed signs of mold in the bathroom, walls and floors, or there are an unusual amount of holes in the walls

After the apartment inspections, it is up to your property manager to give you a second chance to fix holes, issues with the floor and carpets or any negligent damage after inspecting the unit.

Remember that while a move-in inspection has to you, the renter, being the inspector, pointing out existing damage or signs of wear and tear, a routine unit walk-through is for the landlord. Talk to your landlord after the failed inspection and attempt to find some common ground.

Do your part during the routine inspection

Whether or not there are regular inspections in your apartment, it’s always a good idea to be a respectful new renter and maintain your apartment in good condition. It will help get your security deposit back and avoid any costs.

Landlords and property managers often document and keep each apartment inspection on file. They can report on each apartment’s condition and determine if a tenant causes excessive wear and damage to the walls, floors, broken windows, carpets, appliances or anything else found while inspecting.

If unreasonable damage occurs in an apartment, tenants may be liable to fix or pay for repairs.

Wesley is a Charlotte-based writer with a degree in Mass Communication from the University of South Carolina. Her background includes 6 years in non-profit communication and 4 years in editorial writing. She’s passionate about traveling, volunteering, cooking and drinking her morning iced coffee. When she’s not writing, you can find her relaxing with family or exploring Charlotte with her friends.

Source: rent.com

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Buying an existing house is standard for a reason, but for the most extreme of DIY-ers, building a home from the ground up can look like an attractive alternative.

Is building your own home cheaper? Is it smarter? Is it better for your health? Let’s run through the pros and cons.

Pro: Customizing Your Dream House

For those with a clear vision of their “dream home,” customization tends to be the first and last thing on their “pro” list. And there’s nothing wrong with that—who doesn’t want a chance to choose all their flooring and fixtures? Getting it out of the way upfront also means you won’t have to spend money on renovations for a very long time.

Con: Resale Value

Here’s the thing about customization: it’s, well, custom. To you. And by definition, that means it’s not custom for pretty much everyone else out there. This sounds great right now—who cares about the kind of people who don’t appreciate a good basement ball pit, right?—but it tends to present a problem when the time comes to sell the house.

The more tailored the house is to the needs of one family, the less likely it is to appeal to a wide variety of buyers. This is why realtors advise people not to turn their garages into in-law apartments or to pave over the side yard so the kids have a place to play basketball.

Of course, there’s a simple solution—make sure that ball pit is easy to remove, so when the time comes to sell, you can pretend it was a boring TV room all along.

Pro: No Nasty Surprises

Unless you’re buying in cash, your lender will require least one home inspection before you close, but inspectors aren’t perfect, and they can’t predict the future. So if they miss the beginnings of a tiny leak in your new attic, you’ll still be stuck with the damage next time a big storm rolls through.

By building new, you’re also pretty much guaranteed not to encounter health hazards like mold, lead paint, or asbestos. Of course, that doesn’t mean building a home is going to be free of any bumps in the road. Unexpected setbacks like bad weather, ruined materials, or rising costs can be just as painful.

Con: Building out of Town

If you plan on living in a medium-sized town or larger, building new almost always means an empty lot on the outskirts, far from that cute downtown you liked so much. That’s because the older established neighborhoods are already built up around the town center, lowering your odds of finding an affordable empty lot.

Unless you get lucky, your only other option for landing a prime plot of land is to buy one with a home already on it and then tear it down. This may be economically feasible if you can find a foreclosure on the cheap, but that’s a big “if.”

Foreclosures may be budget-friendly, but they come with a notoriously laborious buying process that can really stretch your building timeline, and your options for location are limited by current stock. Otherwise, you’d better have deep pockets.

Pro: Energy Efficiency

This may not be near the top of your own personal “pro” list, but it should be.  The median age of a house in the US is 35 years. 35 years ago, builders didn’t use energy-efficient windows and you can bet they had never seen a low-flush toilet. Over the years to come, you could save thousands on your energy bills, when compared to a similar sized older home without renovations.

As a bonus, all this is good for the environment, too. So you can go to sleep each night with a clean (and green) conscious.

Con: Time and Effort

If you’re seriously considering building a home instead of buying, then you probably already have a decent idea of the commitment involved. But if you’re not, here’s a hint: it takes a long time.

Depending on weather conditions, size, and your contractor, building a house can take anywhere from 3 months to a full year, not including the process of finding a lot, hiring an architect, planning the details, and finding a builder. Before you decide, make sure your whole family is on board for the long haul.

Pro and Con: The Cost

Is building cheaper? That’s the question everyone who’s thinking about making this decision really wants to know. Unfortunately, the answer is as unsatisfying as it gets: it depends. Houses are big, confusing, labor-intensive assets—there’s no way around that. Any desirable house is going to be expensive.

If you’re smart about buying the land and striking a deal with builders, it is possible to save a few thousand dollars. However, the more custom your touches, the more you’ll spend. Even if you end up taking on some of the workload yourself to save money, you risk losing the efficiency, connections, and bulk pricing of someone who does it for a living.

Ultimately, it may be a wash, but that doesn’t mean it’s not worth considering.  Just get your own quotes and do your own math before making your final decision.

Source: totalmortgage.com

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More is more and less is bore.

In the ever-evolving realm of design, a contrast to the reign of minimalism has emerged — the unique world of maximalism. Unlike the muted palettes and sleek lines of its minimalist counterpart, maximalism is a celebration of more. It embraces vibrant colors, intricate patterns and a fun mix of textures.

What is maximalism?

Maximalism is a decor style that thrives on abundance and extravagance. In maximalism, more is more and will never be enough until it hits that sweet spot of self-expression.

Think richness of color, complexity of patterns and intricate texture combinations. This design type leans on clashing patterns and colors that somehow still seamlessly blend into a harmonious and visually stunning space.

The origins of this design style date back to the Baroque and Rococo periods of the 17th and 18th centuries in Europe. Through intricate details and opulent ornamentation, maximalism was born. Throughout the 20th century, maximalism grew through bright colors and unique shapes. However, as the design landscape evolved, minimalism then took the design world by storm, emphasizing simple clean lines and neutral colors with its own compelling narrative of understated elegance.

Maximalist influencers

Eventually, designers and decor lovers wanted to break free from the limiting chains of minimalism in the 21st century. This brought about the maximalism design features we see today, such as rich color palettes, mixed patterns, an abundance of decor items, layered textures, a mix of era influences and artistic displays.

Famous maximalist designers:

  • Johnathan Adler
  • Kelly Wearstler
  • Miles Redd

Putting the pop in popularity

Maximalism is a design style that has grown exponentially in popularity, especially with Gen-Z. As we briefly touched on, the rejection and design to break free from minimalism is a huge reason maximalism decor trends have risen. While clean and aesthetically pleasing, these minimal spaces lacked personality. They felt sterile and uniform, lacking the personality of the person inhabiting the space.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, more and more Gen-Z and millennials were spending time at home. These groups began to discover that maximalism was a trendy way to infuse their spaces with their unique personalities.

In addition to self-expression opportunities, maximalism spaces can evoke a sense of nostalgia and comfort. A huge characteristic of maximalist spaces is mixes of vintage, retro and modern influences. These decor pieces can bring calmness to a bright, bold space, helping balance the room energetically.

Reflecting our digitally powered world

Lastly, in a technology-focused and social media-heavy world, showing off creations is bigger than ever. Maximalism centers around curating unique spaces that speak to your taste and personality, making for the perfect Instagram posts. Many people enjoy delving into the maximalist design world and showing off the space they build and infuse with their own style and personality.

Maximalist decor ideas to show off this decor style

Knowing where to begin when growing your maximalism space is tricky. It’s mixing and matching and not clashing. It’s bold pieces and not cluttered clusters. We’ve pulled some pieces that fit into the creation of an intentionally funky and maximalist space to help inspire and curate your next room.

The clock that’s melting off the shelf

Source: Amazon

This eclectic decor item is perfect on a bookshelf, storage cabinet or any sharp corner. The optical illusion serves as a funky visual, fitting in perfectly with the uniqueness associated with maximalism.

This Queen of Hearts print

Source: Amazon

In maximalism, you never shy away from bright colors. This print, which is a fun take on the Queen of Hearts, mixes orange and pink hues to brighten up a room and serve as a focal point.

A 70s-inspired funky couch

Source: Amazon

Mixing influences through antique, vintage and retro furniture is often seen in maximalist spaces. This retro, 70s-inspired sofa belongs in a maximalist space and will blend seamlessly with other eras represented through decor.

This faux zebra rug

Source: Amazon

In minimalism, mixing textures and patterns is encouraged. This faux zebra rug, while neutral in color, will complement the other colors in maximalist spaces.

The misshaped acrylic coffee table

Source: Amazon

The intentional use of curves and odd shapes makes this coffee table perfect for a maximalist room design. With ample shelving to throw on more maximalist decor items, this piece is sure to bring a unique edge to your space.

Express your style to the max

Incorporating the rich and captivating elements of maximalist design into your living space offers a fun opportunity for creative expression. By embracing all patterns, colors and textures, you can infuse your home with a sense of vibrancy and personality.

Still looking for a place to show off your maximalist mood? Embrace the principle of ‘more is more’ and create an atmosphere that is visually stimulating and fearlessly a reflection of yourself, today! Start by searching our available apartments for rent.

Wesley is a Charlotte-based writer with a degree in Mass Communication from the University of South Carolina. Her background includes 6 years in non-profit communication and 4 years in editorial writing. She’s passionate about traveling, volunteering, cooking and drinking her morning iced coffee. When she’s not writing, you can find her relaxing with family or exploring Charlotte with her friends.

Source: rent.com

Apache is functioning normally

According to iPropertyManagement, just over one-third of American households are rental units, such as apartments, townhomes and even single-family residences. That means that of the approximately 332 million people residing in the United States, over 110 million rent.

With that many would-be tenants searching for a new rental unit at any given time, criminals will be out there looking for vulnerable people they can con out of their hard-earned money. However, there are some tell-tale signs that someone is trying to scam you in your apartment search.

Here’s what you need to look for so you don’t fall victim to common rental scams.

1. Don’t fall for misleading advertisements

Landlords and property managers often reach a potential renter by posting advertisements about their available units in newspapers, magazines and on a listing website. That translates into an unthinkable number of rental listings highlighting what’s on the market at any given time, not to mention all vacation rental listings out there.

Or, at least, what’s supposedly available. Rental listing scams are rampant, so it’s imperative to know how to differentiate between a legitimate advertisement and one full of lies.

Don’t be fooled by beautiful pictures advertising an apartment that looks perfect before doing your due diligence on all property matches. When searching for the next place to call your own, keep these suggestions in mind to avoid common rental scams.

2. Review apartment rental listings carefully

When reading advertisements, pay attention to the way it’s written. Skip listings with misspelled words, improper abbreviations or incomplete information. Details are important, so be extra wary if an apartment ad has errors, blank spaces or confusing terms.

Those kinds of no-nos are a potential clue the person posting the ad is not advertising a real place for rent. Or, maybe they aren’t really a legitimate landlord.

3. Is a month’s rent too low?

Another common rental scam is creating an environment that’s too good. For example, is the monthly rent unexpectedly low for what’s being promised? If the average cost to live in your dream neighborhood is $2,000 a month for a one-bedroom, be wary of apartments being advertised in the same vicinity for far less.

Seeing is believing, so be sure to tour the rental property before signing a lease. That investment of time could go a long way to preventing rental fraud.

4. Cash is not king for a security deposit or first month’s rent

Run, don’t walk, from any supposed landlord requesting cash for any debt relating to renting a property, like an application fee or a security deposit. Giving cash means it will be difficult to prove the payment was actually made. Therefore, even if the would-be landlord offers to provide a written receipt, that paper means nothing if they request money and the transaction is a rental scam.

Other payment methods

Other tips when paying rent, the security deposit or the first month’s rent include:

  • Not wiring money. When you wire money, you run the risk of not having enough of a paper trail.
  • Using the actual payee’s name and phone number on payment apps like Venmo to ensure the money reaches a legitimate destination
  • Familiarizing yourself with staff personnel to gain reassurance you’re dealing with a legitimate landlord

The more information you have, the better you can protect yourself from the bad people out there trying to engage in rental scams.

5. Avoid landlords who will not meet in person

It’s said a picture is worth a thousand words, but sometimes, a photo is not always what it seems. Anyone can create and post breathtaking images, its amenities and the surrounding area in an online listing, hoping viewers will like what they see. Therefore, it’s imperative to meet the property manager, landlord or their authorized agent in person before signing on the dotted line.

And, of course, visit the apartment you’re interested in to ensure posted pictures of the abode match the place depicted in the photos. Walking through the rental properties that may become your home is the best way to decide if you like the place. You might feel a vibe you don’t like or realize the available storage space isn’t sufficient for your needs.

Don’t be satisfied with a virtual tour, because the apartment in the video may not be the one you actually rent. If you have to insist on a personal walk-through before renting, you might want to consider walking away instead. This is a sign it could be a rental scam.

Unusual circumstances

A different set of challenges arise when extenuating circumstances prevent a potential tenant from touring a property before renting. One example is if you live out of town and are unable to travel to a new city to visit the apartment prior to signing a lease and moving in. While it’s best to avoid that situation, there are steps to take to decrease the likelihood of falling for a fraudulent listing.

They include:

  • Asking a friend or relative to check the place out for you
  • Checking the property address online
  • Surfing Google Earth for additional details
  • Requesting the landlord provide references from prior tenants

6. Vet the landlord

Researching a supposed landlord before renting from them can go a long way to preventing fraud.

One way to do that is by checking the website of the county auditor or county recorder where the rental is. That should help you determine who owns the property you want to rent. Be extra careful if it’s difficult to decipher ownership because that could make it easier for someone to perpetrate a fraud.

Hit the internet

While perusing government websites about your would-be landlord, check the criminal courts, too. It could reveal a supposed landlord’s checkered past or their clean background.

Another good place to look online is the county’s municipal court, or wherever you file rental disputes. Does the property owner sue to evict many tenants? How often do they win those cases?

And yet another website to peruse is the Better Business Bureau in the city where the property is or where the landlord has their headquarters. Consumers should report both positive and negative interactions with the business community, so a quick check of their website could reveal whether the landlord or their rental company has ever perpetrated rental scams.

7. Read the lease. Really.

No matter how honest or direct a landlord or property manager might appear, don’t solely rely on a rental listing to decipher what an apartment and its community actually offer.

When you sign a lease, you’re entering into a contract obligating you to perform certain acts, like pay rent on time. The document also explains what the landlord is responsible for, like providing working heat.

If you don’t understand or agree with everything contained in a lease, voice your concerns to the landlord before signing it. It’s too late afterward.

Avoid inexplicable blank spaces on a lease

Don’t sign a lease that’s incomplete. Any missing but pertinent information, such as monthly cost, the rental term and details about who is financially responsible for utilities, are immediate red flags the contact isn’t legitimate.

Rental agreements should also be error-free

A lease agreement is a written contract between a landlord or property manager and a tenant. When a would-be tenant and landlord sign a rental agreement, they enter into a contract requiring certain acts of each of them.

For example, the tenant agrees to pay the rent according to the terms of the contract. The landlord promises to perform whatever the lease promises.

However, a lease pocked with typos, or missing or inaccurate information could be a sign the document is a fraud.

8. Avoid an immediate move-in request

A supposed landlord who insists a potential tenant move in immediately, before a personal walk-through of the place, does not sound legitimate. If nothing else, they sound desperate to rent their unit.

When you tour an apartment and meet the property manager or their representative, they’re meeting with you, too. Normally, an owner takes an interest in who lives in their units. Not taking the time to vet you, as well, should worry you.

Be concerned if they don’t demonstrate that level of concern for their property.

What to do if you’re a victim of rental scams

Unfortunately, despite best efforts not to fall victim to fraudsters, it still happens. If it does, you can fight back.

An initial response is to contact local law enforcement to report the crime. Provide as much information as you can when you contact local authorities to help them in their search for the fraudulent landlord.

Try canceling your method of payment of the security deposit or rent you paid in advance. If you paid cash, you’re out of luck. Using a traceable method, such as a check or credit card, gives you some some recourse to take them to small claims court.

If you wrote a check, contact your bank to determine if somehow, the check was not yet cashed. If it was, report the fraud to your bank. You can also try to stop the payment.

File all the complaints

Don’t forget to file a fraud report with the Federal Trade Commission. While the feds won’t resolve your individual complaint, they use submitted reports to investigate rental scams, unethical business practices and cases of fraud.

The Internet Crime Complaint Center, also known as the IC3, offers another tool for fighting rental fraud. Anyone who believes they’ve been a victim of an Internet crime may file a complaint through that website.

Enjoy a successful apartment search

Finding a great place to live that suits your lifestyle and is affordable is challenging enough, and the prospect of fraud makes it that much more difficult. Create a paper trail of payments for rent or deposits by paying by credit card or check, never by cash. Meet the landlord or their representative personally when you tour the premises and read the written rental agreement thoroughly before signing.

Then, sit back and enjoy your new surroundings.

The information contained in this article is for educational purposes only and does not, and is not intended to, constitute legal or financial advice. Readers are encouraged to seek professional legal or finance advice as they may deem it necessary.

Source: rent.com

Apache is functioning normally

Flowers have the remarkable ability to elevate the decor of any home. Whether you live in an apartment in Irvine, CA or a home in Lexington, KY, adding a touch of elegance and freshness to your living spaces will make a positive impact. Whether you’re a seasoned floral enthusiast or just starting, these expert tips will help you enhance your home’s floral decor.

1. Embrace neutral tones for timeless elegance

“When in doubt, use neutral tones. Colors like white and green compliment any space regardless of decor choice, while also adding a touch of modern elegance,” shares Stephanie from Mercer Island Florist.

Neutral tones act as a canvas, allowing your flowers to take center stage. White lilies, green foliage, and soft creams create a serene atmosphere that complements any interior style.

2. Focus on flower variety, space, and placement

Flowers can freshen up any space, but their impact depends on the flower variety, space, and placement. Justine Aylward, Program and Category Manager at Floral at New Seasons Market, advises, “For higher spaces like mantles or bookcases, go dramatic with tall and draping flowers and branches to make a statement. Try tall flowers, such as lilies or sunflowers that drape a bit with an accent flower like hanging amaranthus.” 

3. Match containers to your home’s style

According to Lawrence The Florist Team, “Choose containers that mimic your home’s style, whether it’s new or vintage, to inspire your arrangement’s design. Bring the beauty of the Pacific Northwest into your home by choosing local seasonal foliage and flowers with your favorite colors and textures whenever possible.”

Selecting containers that resonate with your decor style can fluidly bring your space together. 

4. Maintain freshness for longer lasting blooms 

“Flowers do best away from direct light and kept as cool as possible. Even putting them in a cool dark room when you are not home enjoying them can extend their life. I also recommend a re-cut of the stems at an angle and changing the water often,” states  Ann Vandehey, owner of Annabell’s Garden & Floral Design.

A recut of the stems at an angle and regular water changes keep your blooms vibrant for longer.

Owner of Goldenrod Floral Design Carlee Donnelly, advises, “When choosing or designing flowers for your own home, always, always strip any bottom leaves or foliage from the stems. Leaving foliage in water will cause your flowers to die faster.”

“The key to longer-lasting blooms is fresh, clean water,” says the Ribbon and Twine Floral Team. “Remove all leaves and dirt from the stems before placing them in the vase and refill with new water every few days.”

Clean water and removing foliage is essential for keeping your floral arrangements vibrant.

5. Embrace seasonal blooms

Cory Beckman, Owner of Milwaukie Floral and Garden, emphasizes the importance of freshness, “Fresh is best. Local flower shops refresh selections all week long, but in my professional experience shopping midweek guarantees a good selection of fresh blooms.”

“To add cheer to a room or spruce up your decor, keep it simple and fresh by asking your florist for the flowers that are currently in their peak season,” says Laura Gifford Kerr, Owner of Gifford’s Flowers.

Seasonal blooms not only reflect nature’s beauty but also align with the changing seasons, keeping your decor fresh. Choosing flowers that are in season ensures their quality and affordability.

“Pick flowers that are in season, even going with a bunch of the same flower. Keep it simple,” suggests Owner of Emerald Petals, Hilary Holmes. Single-variety blooms gathered in your favorite vase create a timeless and elegant look that suits any decor style.

6. Choose containers wisely

“Use an opaque container that will disguise any discoloration in the water,” advises The Flower Lab Team. “Ask your florist for a design that reflects the home’s style, such as modern garden style, or architectural for the most appropriate style.”

Containers play a crucial role in enhancing your floral arrangements’ visual appeal and blending with your home’s decor.

7. Create a living arrangements for longevity

Val Wayne of Acorn Floral recommends creating living arrangements. “Start with a decorative planter, choose a few orchid plants from your local grocery store or garden center and a few small 2 inch potted plants and assemble them pot and all inside your decorative planter. Then use crumpled butcher paper to wedge all the plants in place and cover with sheet moss. These living arrangements can run up to hundreds of dollars retail, but you can DIY one for under $100.”

Living arrangements are ideal for home decor because they can last for months and instantly elevate a space. It’ll be worth the cost when you consider the shelf life.

8. Combine flowers with herbs for aromatherapy

According to Lisa Aliment of Bear Creek Florist, “Growing herbs like sage, mint, or rosemary isn’t just for cooking anymore. Add those clippings to simple flower bouquets to add more aromatherapy to the room.”

The combination of flowers and herbs can engage multiple senses, enhancing the ambiance of your space.

9. Set the mood with color and design

“When selecting flowers for your home, think about the feeling you are trying to create,” advises Jennifer Silberg, Owner of Juniper Blooms. “Colorful, vibrant flowers bring a lively energy to the room, while a soothing neutral palette provides a more calm and peaceful environment.”

Consider how the flower arrangements can guide the viewer’s gaze around the room, whether through tall, eye-catching designs or low, intimate ones.

10. Brighten every room with small bunches

The One Little Bunch Team suggests, “Smaller bunches placed throughout the house will brighten up each room. A little bunch in the bathroom adds freshness and a pop of interest, or add a little bunch to your side or entry hall table for a welcoming surprise.”

Small floral accents can elevate the ambiance of every corner of your home.

11. Improve your mood with bouquets

“Flowers are not only beautiful but studies have shown that people report reduced stress levels when receiving bouquets or having flowers in their home after just 3 days,” says Melissa Mercado-Denke, founder of Campanula Design Studio. “Keep it simple – just a few bud vases in areas you spend the most time such as your kitchen or bedroom will have a positive impact on your mood.”

12. Create nostalgic vibes with flower choices

Juliet LaVassar, designer at LaVassar Florists, recommends selecting flowers that evoke memories: “Smell and memories are closely related, according to a 2020 Harvard study. Having flowers around that remind you of loved ones or life events brings joy into your home.”

Personal touches in your floral decor selections add a sentimental dimension to your home.

Incorporating these tips into your home decor journey will not only enhance your living space but also infuse it with the timeless beauty and natural charm of flowers. Whether you opt for dramatic arrangements or simple single-variety bouquets, the right flowers can transform any room into a sanctuary of color, fragrance, and elegance. So, let your creativity bloom and watch your home come to life with the magic of flowers. 

Source: redfin.com

Apache is functioning normally

For years, residents in Solano County heard about a mysterious group buying up thousands of acres of farmland and making millionaires out of property owners. The agricultural land had been owned by the same families for decades — some of it for more than a century.

But the company, Flannery Associates, did not say what its plans were for the land, dotted with towering wind turbines and sheep grazing on pastureland. It paid several times market value and made offers on properties that were not for sale, according to officials familiar with the land purchases.

Then, last week, a survey was sent to residents asking them what they thought about “a new city with tens of thousands of new homes, a large solar energy farm, orchards with over a million new trees, and over ten thousand acres of new parks and open space,” according to a screenshot of the survey shared with the Los Angeles Times.

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That’s when it became clear that Flannery Associates had big plans for the rural landscape.

Over a five-year period, the company became the largest landowner in Solano County after purchasing more than 55,000 acres of undeveloped land. The company has paid more than $800 million since 2018, according to court records.

U.S. Rep. John Garamendi, who represents the region, said for years he and other officials were unable to determine who was behind the dizzying land grab. Flannery Associates has purchased land that was restricted to open space and agricultural purposes under a state conservation program.

The company seeks to rezone the land, which would require approval by multiple state and county agencies and wouldn’t be as simple as asking residents to vote on the issue, officials familiar with the process said. But the lack of residential zoning in the area does not seem to be a factor for Flannery Associates.

Since its buying jag began, the company has filed suit in federal court against a group of families the firm purchased property from, seeking $510 million. Flannery Associates claims the families conspired to inflate their property values in a scheme to get more money.

Garamendi (D-Walnut Grove) lambasted the company for how it has handled the purchases and for not working with local residents.

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“Flannery Associates is using secrecy, bully and mobster tactics to force generational farm families to sell,” Garamendi said during an informational committee hearing on Tuesday that addressed the company’s actions.

For years, residents and politicians speculated that Flannery Associates was backed by foreign investors seeking to spy on Travis Air Force Base. Located in Solano County, the base is one of the busiest military facilities in the nation. Most of the land surrounding the base is now owned by Flannery Associates, according to county documents.

Some of the company’s financial backers were revealed in an article last week by the New York Times, and they include a cadre of tech entrepreneurs and venture capitalists.

On the eastern end of Solano County, the city of Rio Vista is now surrounded by Flannery Associates land. Mayor Ronald Kott said that, like many Solano County officials, he had not been approached by anyone from the company to discuss plans for the land.

Although he’s now aware of the company’s goals and some of the financial backers, he’s still unsure how his city of 10,000 residents found itself surrounded by land owned by a group of tech billionaires.

“I have more questions than answers,” Kott said. “Our destiny is going to be determined by whatever they’re going to do.”

A cyclist rounds a curve on Montezuma Hills Road in Solano County.

(Paul Chinn / San Francisco Examiner via Getty Images)

Flannery Associates has said little since it was formed as a limited liability company in the state of Delaware in 2018. The company’s actions were first reported by ABC7’s San Francisco Bay Area news station, KGO, which said a mysterious company was purchasing large amounts of land.

Flannery Associates is led by Jan Sramek, a former Goldman Sachs investor who found fame and fortune by the time he was 22, according to a 2010 Business Insider article. Sramek previously worked out of Goldman’s offices in London, but his LinkedIn profile now lists Fairfield, Calif., in Solano County as his primary location.

In a self-help book he co-wrote, Sramek says if given the chance to give his younger self a bit of advice, he would quote Ayn Rand: “The question isn’t who is going to let me; it’s who is going to stop me.”

He did not immediately respond to requests for comment.

For years, Garamendi and U.S. Rep Mike Thompson (D-St. Helena) tried to pierce through the opaque veil that surrounded Flannery Associates. Then, in the last week, representatives of the company attempted to arrange sit-down meetings with the Congress members and the survey was sent out to residents.

The survey said that the issue of a new city might be on next year’s ballot, which was news to Garamendi and Thompson. There have been no efforts made by any groups to get a new measure on the ballot for this project, according to officials. The survey also said the developers would replace the county’s existing aqueduct — calling it “one of the most polluted in California” — generate tax revenue for schools and be entirely funded by private sector money.

Thompson said the company’s actions had raised food and national security concerns. He’s asked the U.S. Air Force, the Treasury Department, the Defense Department and the FBI to investigate the land purchases. Thompson met with representatives from the company, including Sramek, according to KGO.

“And I don’t think they had a clear understanding of the significance of livestock in Solano County,” Thompson said. “And it was my impression that they kind of pooh-poohed the agricultural value of the land.”

Garamendi plans to meet with representatives from Flannery Associates at a later time, according to his office.

Solano County Supervisor Monica Brown is not familiar with Silicon Valley and spent most of her professional career as a schoolteacher. She heard from friends who received the survey and wondered if the company had the best interests of the county’s current residents in mind.

“We’re growing food and helping people. Why would you stop economic growth like that?” she told the Los Angeles Times. “Why would they spend $800 million and not be transparent about it?”

Flannery Associates has purchased more than 140 parcels of land, according to court records and county assessor data. That number is growing every day, officials say.

But in its lawsuit, the company claims that it overpaid and is seeking to claw back some of its money.

Attorneys for Flannery Associates have referenced personal relationships and text messages among neighbors in court documents — neighbors who could be influenced, they argue, by a scheme to drive up asking prices for the land.

The lawsuit has had a chilling effect on some landowners in the Montezuma Hills and Jebson Prairie area of the county. Multiple residents in the area declined to comment about the company for fear of being named in a lawsuit.

Others who spoke on condition of anonymity to avoid retaliation by the company say they feel as though Flannery Associates will target anyone who speaks out about the company’s aggressive tactics to buy land.

Garamendi called the lawsuit a “heavy-handed, despicable intimidation tactic.” He said that the company managed to purchase all the land without any of the current governmental safeguards in place to flag the issue. He said that, in the future, information about large land sales, and who is buying and selling, would be vital for lawmakers and residents.

Thompson introduced a bill that was inspired by the Flannery Associates land purchases that would provide more effective tools for state agencies to investigate large land sales.

Through a spokesperson, Flannery Associates said members of the company “care deeply about the future of Solano County and California and believe their best days are ahead.”

The company said the project aims to bring “good-paying jobs, affordable housing, clean energy, sustainable infrastructure, open space, and a healthy environment” to Solano County.

“We are excited to start working with residents and elected officials, as well as with Travis Air Force Base, on making that happen,” spokesperson Brian Brokaw said.

The company says it resorted to secrecy while purchasing the land to avoid rampant real estate speculation. But it has not disclosed specific details about the scope of its project. Representatives for Flannery Associates are meeting with community leaders to present their vision, according to Brokaw.

Michael Moritz, venture capitalist and longtime San Francisco resident, is one of the financial backers behind the company. In a 2017 email viewed by the New York Times, Moritz described an opportunity to invest in a new California city. He explained how investors could transform farmland into a bustling metropolis.

Sequoia Heritage, the $15-billion wealth management firm Moritz founded in 2010, did not immediately respond to requests for comment.

But in a February New York Times opinion piece, Moritz described some of his frustration with San Francisco and how the city had become “a prize example of how we Democrats have become our own worst enemy.”

He described legislators who deceived voters with tweaks and rule changes to the city’s charter so they could stay in power and drive seismic shifts in the local government.

“The core of the issue, in San Francisco and other cities, is that government is more malleable at the city level than at higher levels of government,” Moritz wrote. “If the U.S. Constitution requires decades and a chisel and hammer to change, San Francisco’s City Charter is like a live Google doc controlled by manipulative copy editors.”

Other financial backers with Flannery Associates include LinkedIn co-founder Reid Hoffman; Andreessen Horowitz venture capital firm investors Marc Andreessen and Chris Dixon; payments company Stripe co-founders Patrick and John Collison; Emerson Collective founder Laurene Powell Jobs; and entrepreneurs turned investors Nat Friedman and Daniel Gross, a Flannery Associates spokesperson confirmed.

Although those names were not repeated at an agricultural committee hearing on Tuesday, lawmakers were thinking of the financial backers’ actions.

Flannery Associates’ land buys threaten the makeup of eastern Solano County, mainly the land under the California Land Conservation Act, which sets aside properties for agricultural purposes and open space. The penalty for not obeying that policy does not seem to dissuade Flannery Associates, former West Sacramento Mayor Christopher Cabaldon said during the committee hearing.

The act, also known as the Williamson Act, can include a fee for the incompatible structures built on the land. For billionaire property owners, that could just be seen as the price of doing business.

“In some sense,” he said, the conservation program has “been like a flag that says, ‘Buy here.’”

The Flannery Associates project illustrates just how weak current tools are for dealing with a project of this size. Secrecy further hampers state regulators unaware of a buyer’s intent for the land, Cabaldon said.

Brokaw, the Flannery Associates spokesperson, said the company wouldn’t comment on specific issues brought up during the committee hearing but was meeting with county and state leaders to address their concerns.

Officials and landowners worry that much of the infrastructure needed to build a new city is just not present in eastern Solano County. And an influx of development would almost certainly drive out any farmers from the region.

But another scenario that could present itself is Flannery Associates moving ahead with its project only to have it fall apart years later.

“Even if the project is rejected locally … you can’t reset the clock,” Cabaldon said. “You cannot turn it back and say, ‘OK, no harm, no foul. Let’s just return to the way that this community was two years ago.’ Because the owners will be gone, the family farmers will have left.”

Times staff writers Jessica Garrison and Ryan Fonseca contributed to this report.

Source: latimes.com

Apache is functioning normally

In our latest real estate tech entrepreneur interview, we’re speaking with Grier Allen from BoomTown.

Who are you, and what do you do?

I’m Grier Allen, the founder and CEO of BoomTown, and I run a team of 300+ makers and doers who develop services and software to make real estate agents successful.

What problem does your product/service solve?

At the highest level, we solve the problem of “how do I get from point A to point B” in my real estate business, and see success. The system has everything a real estate professional needs to grow their database, manage their prospects and clients, streamline their team, and prioritize their day. Of course, we offer powerful lead generation, and a predictive CRM, but we also provide a service side that handles everything from getting clients onboarded and set up with the platform, business strategies, coaching, and training, to digital marketing and even lead qualification. It’s that perfect blend of technology and teams that can get you from where you are to where you want to go, no matter what stage of the game you’re in with your business.

What are you most excited about right now?

Lead qualification is a new service offering for us, and it’s handled through our Success Assurance program that’s been a gamechanger for a lot of our clients. Many agents struggle to find time to respond to incoming leads, and don’t necessarily see it as their most dollar-productive activity. Unfortunately, we all know that if you don’t respond, someone else will. 

With Success Assurance, you get a team of lead qualification experts acting on behalf of a real estate team, and responding to leads 24/7, 365, within 90 seconds, and nurturing them for up to one year. Conversations are shared in real time, and an agent can step in at any point. Agents can focus on their action-ready clients and rest assured that their future clients are getting the care and engagement they need.

What’s next for you?

Continuing to deliver on things our clients need, and things they might not even know they need. There are so many things necessary to running a successful real estate business in 2020 and beyond. The needs and preferences vary a great deal from business to business,  and we want to make sure we keep anticipating those needs and delivering a solution to help them make success easy.

We offer multiple packages (website, lead generation, CRM) based on the needs of different business sizes. Our API integrates with best-of-breed point solutions that are beloved by agents and help keep their data and management in one place, and we continue to add new integration partners.  And our service offerings expanded, allowing agents to leverage our digital marketing experts, lead qualification team, and coaching opportunities. 

Recently we announced the development of a consumer-facing app for our clients to provide an even better way for their prospects and clients to search and experience their brand.

And I’m very excited to launch Marketing Central, a new self-service advertising portal with a super-clean UI and a user-friendly way to create campaigns to promote listings or sold homes, to re-engage olds leads or to go after “abandoners,” that can be run on Facebook, Instagram or both.

What’s a cause you’re passionate about and why?

I’m very passionate about the place I live, and supporting and preserving the amazing environment and culture here in Charleston, South Carolina. To that end, I’m active with groups and initiatives that preserve and protect our lands and waters, as well as the historic architecture that abounds, and I’m also dedicated to fostering the growing tech scene.

Thanks to Grier for sharing his story. If you’d like to connect, find him on LinkedIn here.

We’re constantly looking for great real estate tech entrepreneurs to feature. If that’s you, please read this post — then drop me a line (drew @ geekestatelabs dot com).

Source: geekestateblog.com