community

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This ain’t your average rodeo.

With its vast landscapes and diverse cultures, Texas offers a tune for every soul seeking a place to call home. From the pulsing beats of its big cities to the mellow rhythms of its small towns, the Lone Star State has its own symphony of life. Dive in, and let’s explore the best places to live in Texas, where the horizon stretches as far as your dreams and where every corner sings its own unique song.

  • Population: 946,177
  • Average age: 33.7
  • Median household income: $78,965
  • Average commute time: 25.0 minutes
  • Walk score: 42
  • Studio average rent: $972
  • One-bedroom average rent: $1,677
  • Two-bedroom average rent: $1,939

Alright, alright, alright! Austin isn’t just the state capital; it’s the live music capital that’s a bubbling cauldron of culture, nature and rhythm. Located along the Colorado River in Central Texas, this vibrant Texas city boasts an appealing mix of live music, authentic Tex-Mex and rolling hills that’ll have you believing you’re in a perpetual state of golden hour. With Barton Springs to take a cool dip and trails that’ll lead you on a whimsical journey through Mother Nature’s finest, Austin is a testament to how humans and the environment can jam together harmoniously.

When it comes to making a living, compared to other Texas cities, Austin sets the pace. It has a thriving tech scene, making it one of the best places to live in Texas for job-seekers, innovators and dreamers alike. The University of Texas plants its roots deep in the heart of the city, nurturing minds and setting the pace for a bright future.

And that sense of community? It’s tighter than a snare drum, with folks who’ll greet you with that down-to-earth southern charm and a genuine “howdy.” So, if you’re looking for a slice of Texan paradise that’s got the soul of a poet and the energy of a rock star, you might just wanna mosey on down to Austin.

  • Population: 288,253
  • Average age: 38.9
  • Median household income: $99,729
  • Average commute time: 26.8 minutes
  • Walk score: 41
  • Studio average rent: $1,319
  • One-bedroom average rent: $1,592
  • Two-bedroom average rent: $2,142

Tucked away just north of the major center of Dallas, Plano is like that smooth, steady rhythm in a country ballad. It’s one of the many Texas cities where tradition melds with the contemporary, creating a melody of life that’s hard to resist. With sprawling parks stretching their green fingers across the cityscape and serene lakes offering a peaceful retreat, Plano’s natural beauty is a testament to the Lone Star State’s charm.

If we’re talking job opportunities, Plano’s jam-packed. Often hailed as one of the best places to live in Texas, this city has become a magnet for business, and why not? With a thriving job market, affordable housing and top-notch schools, the city’s got its finger on the pulse of prosperity. Immerse yourself into the community and you’ll feel that genuine Texan spirit, where neighbors quickly become family and every gathering feels like a backyard BBQ.

  • Population: 114,532
  • Average age: 40.1
  • Median household income: $130,000
  • Average commute time: 29 minutes
  • Walk score: 18
  • One-bedroom average rent: $1,160
  • Two-bedroom average rent: $1,621

Hidden among towering pines and gentle oaks, The Woodlands is like that quiet refrain in a song that captures your heart and soul. A master-planned community that’s designed to be in harmony with its environment, this place boasts winding pathways, serene waterways and pristine pockets of wilderness that’d make you think you’re in a Texas fairytale. It’s a dance between nature and civilization, where the pace of life finds that sweet spot between laid-back and lively.

Look beyond those tranquil trails and you’ll find a bustling hub of opportunity. The Woodlands is not just one of the best places to live in Texas; among the best cities, it’s also a hotspot for enterprises and a cradle for education. Here, businesses grow like wildflowers after a spring rain and schools sculpt the next generation with expertise and zeal.

  • Population: 2.288 million
  • Average age: 33.3
  • Median household income: $53,600
  • Average commute time: 26.1 minutes
  • Walk score: 47
  • Studio average rent: $1,230
  • One-bedroom average rent: $1,232
  • Two-bedroom average rent: $1,582

Houston is like that soulful guitar solo that starts slow but then takes you on a wild, foot-tapping ride. To put it simply, Houston is one of the cherished Texas cities with depth, energy and a whole lot of heart. As one of the largest cities in the U.S., the Houston population is sizable.

The sprawling Houston metro area weaves together a truly unique collection of cultures, flavors and sounds. Bayous snake their way through the city, offering pockets of green amid the urban bustle, while the scent of Tex-Mex and barbecue fills the air, making taste buds dance from dawn till dusk.

If you’re looking to put down roots in one of the best places to live in Texas, Houston’s got more than a few cards up its sleeve. With booming sectors from energy to aerospace, the job market here is as hot as a Texas summer. Pair that with some top-tier universities and schools, and it’s easy to see that Houston is invested in the future. Oh, and the community vibe? It’s like a big family reunion, accepting, full of life and always up for a good time.

  • Population: 1.288 million
  • Average age: 32.9
  • Median household income: $62,633
  • Average commute time: 25.7 minutes
  • Walk score: 46
  • Studio average rent: $1,472
  • One-bedroom average rent: $1,404
  • Two-bedroom average rent: $2,010

Dallas is like that infectious chorus you can’t help but hum along to, it has a clear style and an undeniable swagger. As the heart of North Texas, Big D pulsates with a certain energy, from the glitz of its downtown skyscrapers to the soulful hum of Deep Ellum’s blues.

But it ain’t all concrete and steel; the Trinity River winds its way through the historic downtown area, offering residents a slice of nature’s bounty right in their backyard. The Dallas Fort Worth area, with its unique blend of cosmopolitan sheen and Southern soul, confidently stakes its claim among the best places to live in Texas.

But what’s a song without its verses? Dallas belts out opportunities like a star on the rise. Downtown Dallas is a hub for commerce, tech and finance, Dallas draws dreamers and doers and offers them a stage to shine. Education takes the spotlight too, with institutions that nurture and challenge young minds, preparing them for the grand show of life. Look further into the neighborhoods in Dallas, and you’ll discover a community spirit that’s warm, welcoming, and as hearty as a Texas steak.

  • Population: 1.452 million
  • Average age: 33.8
  • Median household income: $55,084
  • Average commute time: 24.6 minutes
  • Walk score: 37
  • Studio average rent: $975
  • One-bedroom average rent: $1,142
  • Two-bedroom average rent: $1,416

San Antonio feels like the slow, mesmerizing strum of a steel guitar. Situated in Southern Texas, it’s a Texas city where history, culture and contemporary ideas converge in a harmonious melody. Settled along the banks of its namesake river, this city tells tales of battles past, while mariachi tunes float through the air, whispering stories of heritage and passion.

But San Antonio isn’t just about the past; it’s got an eye on the horizon. With an economy as spicy and varied as its famed Tex-Mex cuisine, opportunities sizzle in industries ranging from healthcare to tourism and beyond. The city’s schools and colleges stand tall, committed to churning out the leaders of tomorrow. For souls seeking a city that blends tradition with tomorrow, San Antonio just might hit the right note.

  • Population: 935,508
  • Average age: 33
  • Median household income: $67,927
  • Average commute time: 27.9 minutes
  • Walk score: 35
  • Studio average rent: $1,177
  • One-bedroom average rent: $1,412
  • Two-bedroom average rent: $1,782

Fort Worth has the charm of the classics with a touch of the modern beat. Dubbed ‘Cowtown’ due to its deep-rooted cowboy heritage, this city showcases rodeos and honky-tonks, making you tip your hat to the Texas of yesteryear. But amid the echoes of boot heels on wooden floors, there’s an urban sophistication that unfurls, with art museums and jazz bars painting a diverse canvas. The blend of the rustic and the refined makes Fort Worth stand out among the best places to live in Texas.

But let’s not stop at the surface. Look closer, and Fort Worth reveals a thriving economic landscape. From aviation to healthcare, this city’s opportunities soar as high as the Texas sky. With educational institutions fostering the spirit of inquiry and innovation, it’s a city where dreams are not just dreamt but crafted with purpose.

  • Population: 116,382
  • Average age: 35.1
  • Median household income: $85,350
  • Average commute time: 24.7 minutes
  • Walk score: 44
  • Studio average rent: $2,002
  • One-bedroom average rent: $1,671
  • Two-bedroom average rent: $2,125

Richardson is like that deep, soulful bass line underpinning a groovy track. It’s steady, foundational and undeniably cool. Just a stone’s throw from the bustle of Dallas, this city shines with a charm all its own, threaded with green belts and parks where nature whispers tales of timeless beauty. The serenity of Spring Creek and Cottonwood Park, coupled with the urban buzz, sets Richardson apart, making it easily one of the best places to live in Texas.

Dubbed the ‘Telecom Corridor’, Richardson isn’t just about leisure. It’s a hotspot for tech giants and startups alike, providing a dance floor where innovation takes the lead. Education here is top-tier, with the University of Texas at Dallas shaping bright minds and lighting the path forward.

  • Population: 11,072
  • Average age: 47.1
  • Median household income: $54,771
  • Average commute time: 20.7 minutes
  • Average rent: $1,250

Fredericksburg feels like that soft strum of a six-string on a porch as the sun sets. Fredericksburg is intimate, soulful and undeniably Texan. Tucked away in the heart of Hill Country, this affordable place blends German heritage with Lone Star spirit. With vineyards rolling out like nature’s own red carpet and historic architecture telling tales of yesteryears, Fredericksburg offers a retreat that’s both serene and spirited. Its quaint charm and pastoral beauty make its small-town charm resonate harmoniously among the best places to live in Texas.

Yet, beyond the initial allure of its winding trails and the melodies of its festivals and outdoor activities, Fredericksburg pulses with opportunity. Its growing tourism and thriving local businesses craft a strong culture where tradition meets enterprise. The town’s schools, with their commitment to nurturing roots while reaching for the stars, play a harmonious tune for the future of this steadily growing small town on the rise.

  • Population: 109,373
  • Average age: 41.5
  • Median household income: $123,261
  • Average commute time: 31.1 minutes
  • Walk score: 28
  • Studio average rent: $1,007
  • One-bedroom average rent: $2,693
  • Two-bedroom average rent: $1,665

Think of Sugar Land as that slow, sultry saxophone solo that fills a room with its rich, captivating tones. Nestled just southwest of Houston, this gem of a city sparkles like its name suggests, blending suburban serenity with an urban edge. Majestic oaks shade manicured streets, while shimmering lakes reflect the powerful Texas sun. Nature takes center stage, from the serenity of Brazos River Park to the chirping melodies of Oyster Creek. It’s no wonder Sugar Land strikes a chord among the best cities to live in Texas.

But don’t be fooled by its sweet facade; Sugar Land’s got rhythm and drive compared to bigger cities. The city has a bustling business sector, anchored by strong healthcare and energy industries, offering new residents a tune of prosperity that many are drawn to dance to. Schools here compose symphonies of success for the younger generation, making this an ideal spot for everyone from young professionals to established families to call home.

Settle down in one of Texas’ top spots

In Texas, there’s a city for everyone, be it under the bright city lights or the serene country stars. Finding the best places to live in Texas is like finding the perfect rhythm for one’s heart — it’s a journey of soul, spirit and endless possibilities.

You’re never alone in your search for the perfect place in the Lone Star State, so, when the dust settles and the music fades, remember: in Texas, home isn’t just a city; it’s a feeling. And the best place to fund that feeling is right here.

Rent prices are based on an average from Rent.’s multifamily rental property inventory as of June 2023.
Other demographic data comes from the U.S. Census Bureau.
The rent information included in this article is used for illustrative purposes only. The data contained herein do not constitute financial advice or a pricing guarantee for any apartment.

Source: rent.com

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L.A. is an entertainment hub (obviously), but it’s not just movies you get to see here. There’s plenty of live entertainment, including ballets, concerts and plays. Los Angeles is also a culturally diverse city with people streaming in from around the world. Food, art, entertainment and festivals celebrate the city’s rich diversity.

While many people think that moving to California in general — let alone a big city like Los Angeles — is out of their budget, we beg to differ. We’ve gone on the hunt and found some of the cheapest neighborhoods in Los Angeles that offer spectacular amenities while staying within budget.

What is the average rent in Los Angeles?

In 2021, Los Angeles rated No. 77 on a list of the most expensive cities in the world. How does it compare to other cities in the U.S.? According to the Los Angeles Almanac, L.A. is the 16th most expensive city in the country. That said, it’s still cheaper than other California cities (San Francisco, Irvine, Santa Barbara and Oakland) and approximately 25 percent more affordable than the most expensive city in the United States, Honolulu.

How does that translate to rental fees? The average cost of rent in L.A. is $3,910 for a two-bedroom apartment. New and existing renters in the city love it because rental prices are down by 13.37 percent over the past 12 months.

The 10 most affordable neighborhoods in Los Angeles

Are you ready to make the move to L.A.? If so, we have some suggested neighborhoods for you. The following communities are some of the cheapest neighborhoods in Los Angeles, perfect if you’re on a tight budget or just starting out.

10. Hancock Park

  • Average 2-BR rent: $2,950
  • Rent change since 2021: -16.06 percent

Though Hancock Park isn’t the cheapest of Los Angeles neighborhoods, it’s one of the few communities to decrease over the past 12 months. In fact, of the 53 Los Angeles neighborhoods we evaluated, Hancock Park had the third-highest decrease in 2021.

Apartments for rent in Hancock Park are upscale and perfect for families looking for a centrally-located residential community that’s closer to Downtown L.A. than Beverly Hills or Brentwood.

The neighborhood is one of L.A.’s most prominent. Initially, developers created the community to house celebrities and movie studio executives. Therefore, many homes in the area are expansive with large yards.

Gorgeous, mature palm trees line the street, and you can see the Hollywood sign from your window.

Commutes range from 20-60 minutes by car, though by public transit, they can take up to 80-90 minutes, depending on traffic.

9. Westlake North

Source: Rent./The Visconti
  • Average 2-BR rent: $2,931
  • Rent change since 2021: -0.16 percent

Another one of the few neighborhoods on our list to have an actual price decrease over the past 12 months is Westlake North. Because it’s one of the cheapest places to live in Los Angeles, it’s a haven for artists and young families. Residents get the best of both worlds here in that they’re close to Downtown L.A., but they get to live here at a much cheaper rate.

The Westland North neighborhood is one of the first residential areas in Los Angeles, rivaling Manhattan’s Upper East Side as an area of affluence.

Residents and visitors who love art, history and excellent food gravitate to Westlake North because of its fantastic eateries and hot entertainment spots. You’ll also find many historic landmarks, including Lafayette Park, MacArthur Park, Temple-Beaudry and Filipinotown. The neighborhood is going through a revitalization process, with artists from the greater Los Angeles area converting abandoned rail tunnels into public murals.

8. Chinatown

  • Average 2-BR rent: $2,895
  • Rent change since 2021: +7.81 percent

If you want to live in a neighborhood rich in history and tradition but has a cool, modern vibe, look for apartments to rent in Chinatown. The area has traditional pagodas, as well as contemporary art galleries. Residents in the area can range from multiple generations of Chinese families to hipsters looking for apartments in the cheapest neighborhoods in Los Angeles.

Chinatown is home to the most famous restaurants in L.A., including The Original Philippe and The Little Jewel of New Orleans, famous for French Dip sandwiches and delectable Cajun food.

Bordering Chinatown is Echo Park and Downtown L.A., and most commutes average five to 20 minutes depending on your mode of transportation.

There are several public schools in the area, and parents of Chinatown give the schools above-average ratings.

7. North Valley

  • Average 2-BR rent: $2,878
  • Rent change since 2021: +1.52 percent

While most of the neighborhoods on our list had significant increases in rental fees in 2021, North Valley had the lowest increase overall, making it one of the most affordable neighborhoods in Los Angeles.

North Valley is in the northern part of the San Fernando Valley, and residents often call it the Deep Valley. This neighborhood is home to the second-largest park in L.A., O’Melveny Park, which you’ll find off Balboa Boulevard. The park is beautiful, lush and clean with picnic tables, restrooms and paved paths. A steep, six-mile loop trail in the park will provide you with a great workout!

The neighborhood is ideal for retirees and families, with plenty of activities for all, including a trampoline park for the kids and a golf course for the grownups.

6. Northridge

  • Average 2-BR rent: $2,728
  • Rent change since 2021: +15.39 percent

Despite being one of the cheapest neighborhoods in Los Angeles, residents often refer to Northridge as the jewel of San Fernando Valley. Though 60,000 people call it home, Northridge is still one of the least populated neighborhoods in L.A.

Check on any community ranking site, and you’ll find that Northridge always receives an A or A+ rating. Residents love living here because of the gorgeous weather, as well as the fantastic shopping. The Northridge Fashion Center is the largest mall in the area, and it will meet just about all your needs — if not more!

Another reason this neighborhood ranks so high is because of the housing. Apartments for rent in Northridge are affordable, well-kept, safe, modern and have attractive architectural features.

5. Northridge East

  • Average 2-BR rent: $2,591
  • Rent change since 2021: +9.42 percent

If you’re a student of California State University – Northridge, you’ll probably want to start looking for apartments for rent in Northridge East. Not only is the university located right in the middle of this area, but Northridge East is also one of the cheapest neighborhoods in L.A. That’s a win-win for college students because living near the school will help you save time and money.

Also nearby is Aliso Canyon Park, a (mostly) undeveloped space with rugged trails for hiking and horseback riding. They also have bike paths. Spending time here is a great way to get some exercise, spend time in the great outdoors (which is excellent for your health!) and get some peace and quiet from city living.

The Northridge East Neighborhood Council is also very active and helps improve the community’s business climate and quality of life.

4. Park La Brea

  • Average 2-BR rent: $2,533
  • Rent change since 2021: +3.13 percent

You might think that moving to one of the cheapest places to live in Los Angeles would mean you have to compromise on things like luxury amenities. Actually, that’s not the case, especially if you move to the Park La Brea neighborhood. This stunning community consists of an interesting mix of modern high-rise apartments, townhouses and garden cottages.

The Park La Brea neighborhood is in the heart of L.A., just adjacent to West Hollywood – a place you might never guess would have some of the most affordable apartments in the city. But it does, and the amenities provided in this facility are truly impressive. Of course, that’s in addition to some of the most drop-dead gorgeous views in the city.

The community does its best to stay up-to-date with upscale and urban chic amenities, including a saltwater pool. There’s also a four-acre park nearby, as well as garden cafés.

3. Victor Heights

Source: Rent./Victor Heights
  • Average 2-BR rent: $2,507
  • Rent change since 2021: +11.42 percent

Another hidden gem that’s one of the most affordable neighborhoods in Los Angeles is Victor Heights, located southeast of Echo Park. The neighborhood is on a sloping hill with a fantastic view of the L.A. skyline.

Victor Heights is a diverse neighborhood with European, Asian and Latino immigrants. Millennials, young professionals and hipsters have taken to the area in recent years, giving it a quirky mix of style and culture.

Speaking of quirky, it’s not unusual to find wild peafowl and feral parrots wandering Victor Heights, adding a tropical twist to the inner city.

2. Greater Valley Glen

Source: Rent./Cedar Glen
  • Average 2-BR rent: $2,507
  • Rent change since 2021: +8.41 percent

Greater Valley Glen is a modest, suburban community with an urban twist. It’s a lovely neighborhood for families with most public schools earning higher than average and even excellent ratings from parents.

Long-time residents say they’ve seen a lot of positive outcomes since the neighborhood changed its name from Van Nuys to Valley Glen. Positive changes include better school ratings, cleaner parks with new equipment and well-maintained homes and businesses.

The sense of community is very strong in Valley Glen, and the neighborhood association sets up social events like movie nights, concerts and barbecues. They also host community clean-up gatherings, as well.

1. Crenshaw

Source: Rent./Residence at Woodlake
  • Average 2-BR rent: $2,252
  • Rent change since 2021: +1.27 percent

Beautiful, trendy and calm are words often used to describe the Crenshaw neighborhood, the cheapest neighborhood in Los Angeles. The average commute into the city is around 35 minutes. Over 80 percent of residents are renters, so you’ll have plenty of options to choose from when searching for an apartment for rent in Crenshaw.

Residents say the neighborhood is quiet because it consists of single people and couples, and not many kids live in the area.

The walkability, bike and transit scores all hover around the 54 mark, meaning that most residents need a car to get around.

The most expensive neighborhood in Los Angeles

If you want to look for an apartment for rent in the most expensive neighborhood in Los Angeles, look no further than Gallery Row, where an apartment averages $6,661 per month. Prices are going up in the area, too. The neighborhood experienced a 10.48 percent increase in rental costs in the past year.

The Gallery Row neighborhood is an art and cultural district in Downtown L.A. You’ll find over 50 museums and art galleries in the community, as well as numerous bars and trendy restaurants.

Interestingly, this community borders Skid Row, a neighborhood with dilapidated streets and rundown buildings. The Gallery Row neighborhood shows what people can achieve when they work together to create urban growth and cultural revitalization.

Find an affordable neighborhood for your next apartment

Did any of the cheapest neighborhoods in Los Angeles sound like a good fit for your budget and personality? If so, it’s now time to take the next step. Check our listings for apartments for rent in Los Angeles that fit all your needs!

Rent prices are based on a rolling weighted average from Rent.’s multifamily rental property inventory as of January 2022. Our team uses a weighted average formula that more accurately represents price availability for each unit type and reduces the influence of seasonality on rent prices in specific markets. The rent information included in this article is used for illustrative purposes only. The data contained herein do not constitute financial advice or a pricing guarantee for any apartment.

Source: rent.com

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The average cost of homeowners insurance in Delaware is $875 per year, or about $73 per month, according to a NerdWallet analysis. That’s significantly less than the national average of $1,820 per year.

We’ve analyzed rates and companies across the state to find the best homeowners insurance in Delaware.

Note: Some insurance companies included in this article may have made changes in their underwriting practices and no longer issue new policies in your state. Even if an insurer serves your state, it may not write policies for all homes in all areas.

Why you can trust NerdWallet

Our writers and editors follow strict editorial guidelines to ensure fairness and accuracy in our writing and data analyses. You can trust the prices we show you because our data analysts take rigorous measures to eliminate inaccuracies in pricing data and may update rates for accuracy as new information becomes available.

We include rates from every locale in the country where coverage is offered and data is available. When comparing rates for different coverage amounts and backgrounds, we change only one variable at a time, so you can easily see how each factor affects pricing.

Our sample homeowner had good credit, $300,000 of dwelling coverage, $300,000 of liability coverage and a $1,000 deductible.

The best homeowners insurance in Delaware

If you’re looking to buy homeowners insurance from a well-rated national brand, consider one of these insurers from NerdWallet’s list of the Best Homeowners Insurance Companies.

More about the best home insurance companies in Delaware

See more details about each company to help you decide which one is best for you.

State Farm

Well-established insurer with a lengthy list of coverage options.

Coverage options

More than average

Average set of discounts

NAIC complaints

Fewer than expected

State Farm

Well-established insurer with a lengthy list of coverage options.

Coverage options

More than average

Average set of discounts

NAIC complaints

Fewer than expected

America’s largest home insurer celebrated its 100th anniversary in 2022. One useful endorsement you may be able to add to a State Farm policy is an inflation guard rider, which automatically increases your policy limits to make sure your coverage doesn’t fall short.

Chubb

Perks and high coverage limits for affluent homeowners.

Coverage options

About average

Great set of discounts

NAIC complaints

Far fewer than expected

Chubb

Perks and high coverage limits for affluent homeowners.

Coverage options

About average

Great set of discounts

NAIC complaints

Far fewer than expected

Chubb generally serves affluent policyholders with high-value homes, offering lofty coverage limits and plenty of perks. For example, the company covers water damage from backed-up sewers and drains, and pays to bring your home up to the latest building codes during reconstruction after a claim. (Many insurers charge more for these types of coverage.)

If you insure a secondary or seasonal home in Delaware with Chubb, you can sign up for the company’s Property Manager service at no charge. With this service, a Chubb representative will inspect your home after a hurricane, report its condition to you, submit a claim on your behalf and help prevent further damage.

Nationwide

For shoppers seeking a broad range of coverage options, Nationwide may fit the bill.

Coverage options

More than average

Great set of discounts

NAIC complaints

Close to expected

Nationwide

For shoppers seeking a broad range of coverage options, Nationwide may fit the bill.

Coverage options

More than average

Great set of discounts

NAIC complaints

Close to expected

We like Nationwide for its wide variety of coverage options. For example, its standard homeowners insurance policy generally includes ordinance or law coverage, which can help pay to bring your home up to current building codes after a covered claim. You can add other coverage for things like identity theft and damage from backed-up sewers and drains.

Depending on how much personal assistance you need, you can get a quote for homeowners insurance on the Nationwide website or work with a local agent instead. You can also use the website to pay bills, file claims or check claim status.

Travelers

Strong coverage and decent discounts.

Coverage options

About average

Average set of discounts

NAIC complaints

Fewer than expected

Travelers

Strong coverage and decent discounts.

Coverage options

About average

Average set of discounts

NAIC complaints

Fewer than expected

Travelers offers a robust online experience. You can use the website to get a homeowners insurance quote, file and track claims, make payments and learn about insurance basics.

Its coverage offerings are similarly strong. For example, you may be able to add extra coverage in case the dwelling limit on your home isn’t enough to rebuild your house after a disaster. One unique option is Travelers’ green home coverage, which pays extra if you want to use eco-friendly materials when repairing or rebuilding your home after a covered claim.

USAA

Offers perks and affordable rates for the military community.

Coverage options

Below average

Average set of discounts

NAIC complaints

Far fewer than expected

USAA

Offers perks and affordable rates for the military community.

Coverage options

Below average

Average set of discounts

NAIC complaints

Far fewer than expected

USAA sells homeowners insurance to veterans, active military members and their families. If that description fits you, you may want to consider a USAA policy. That’s because the company’s homeowners insurance has certain features that other insurers may charge extra for.

For example, USAA automatically covers your personal belongings on a “replacement cost” basis. Many companies pay out only what your items are worth at the time of the claim, which means you may not get much for older items. USAA pays enough for you to buy brand-new replacements for your stuff.

How much does homeowners insurance cost in Delaware?

The average annual cost of home insurance in Delaware is $875. That’s 52% less than the national average of $1,820.

In most U.S. states, including Delaware, many insurers use your credit-based insurance score to help set rates. Your insurance score is similar but not identical to your traditional credit score.

In Delaware, those with poor credit pay an average of $1,815 per year for homeowners insurance, according to NerdWallet’s rate analysis. That’s 107% more than those with good credit.

Average cost of homeowners insurance in Delaware by city

How much you pay for homeowners insurance in Delaware depends on where you live. For instance, the average cost of home insurance in Wilmington is $725 per year, while homeowners in Dover pay $790 per year, on average.

Average annual rate

Average monthly rate

Camden Wyoming

Georgetown

Middletown

New Castle

Rehoboth Beach

Wilmington

The cheapest home insurance in Delaware

Here are the insurers we found with average annual rates below the Delaware average of $875.

What to know about Delaware homeowners insurance

Delaware can see a range of severe weather that can spell disaster for homeowners. When looking for homeowners insurance in Delaware, consider the risk of coastal storms, flooding and hail.

Hurricanes and wind damage

Hurricanes and coastal storms can cause significant damage to properties, even if they don’t make landfall. Delaware is particularly vulnerable to coastal flooding and damage from high winds, as it is surrounded by water on three sides. Pay attention to your wind and flood coverage so you can make sure you have enough coverage for the damage these tropical storms can bring.

Your policy may have separate deductibles for hurricane and wind damage. Suppose your policy has a $1,000 deductible for most claims and a 2% deductible for wind claims. If your house has $250,000 worth of dwelling coverage, you’d have to pay for the first $5,000 of wind damage yourself.

Flooding

Coastal storms, snow melt and heavy rains can all cause flooding in Delaware. Standard homeowners insurance will not cover flood damage, which means people in at-risk areas should consider buying separate coverage.

To find out your risk, check out the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s flood maps and RiskFactor.com, a website from the nonprofit First Street Foundation. Even if your property is deemed low risk, it may be worthwhile to purchase flood insurance for extra peace of mind.

Homeowners in flood-prone areas may need to purchase separate flood insurance. Remember that while you can purchase flood coverage at any time, there’s typically a 30-day waiting period before the insurance takes effect. Here’s more information about flood insurance and waiting periods.

Thunderstorms and hail

While Delaware weather is often mild, severe thunderstorms bring strong wind and hail, which can cause extensive damage to roofs, siding or windows. Standard policies generally cover storm damage but keep in mind that, as with wind, hail damage may have a separate deductible.

Delaware insurance department

The Delaware Department of Insurance oversees the state’s insurance industry. In addition to providing consumer information, the agency’s website is also a resource if you’re having a dispute with your insurer. You can file a complaint using its online form. You can also reach out to the department with questions or to get support with your complaint at 800-282-8611 or [email protected].

Frequently asked questions

Is homeowners insurance required in Delaware?

Homeowners insurance is not required by Delaware state law. However, your lender may require you to purchase homeowners insurance.

Does Delaware homeowners insurance cover flooding?

Standard homeowners insurance in Delaware does not cover flooding. If you live in a high-risk area, you should consider buying a separate flood insurance policy.

How can I save money on homeowners insurance in Delaware?

There are several ways to save money on home insurance in Delaware:

  • Shop around to make sure you’re getting the best rate.

  • Choose a higher deductible. In case of any claims, you’ll pay more out of pocket, but your premiums will be lower.

Amanda Shapland contributed to this story.

Source: nerdwallet.com

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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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If you are gearing up to go to college, you are likely focused on maintaining a good GPA and prepping for the SAT or ACT. However, those aren’t the only factors that will get you into your dream school. Getting involved in extracurriculars in high school is often just as important as academics.

One type of extracurricular that you may want to consider is joining a club. High schools usually have a variety of clubs available for students to join. Joining a club comes with many benefits and can also make your high school experience more fun and memorable. Read on to learn more about why clubs are important and how to get involved.

Benefits of Joining a Club

The list of things-to-do while in high school can seem pretty overwhelming at times, especially when you add college preparation to the mix. There are classes to stay on top of, events and parties to attend, and soon enough college applications roll around. Balancing coursework and a social life can be a struggle, but one way to combine social life with college preparation is by joining a club.

There are a lot of benefits to joining a high school club. Many colleges like to see that applicants are well-rounded, so academic success isn’t the only way to stand out among other applicants. Clubs provide colleges with insight into what a student’s interests and passions are. In addition, they help students develop time management skills and responsibility.

Learning to balance work and fun while in high school can help make it easier to maintain that balance after entering college.

Joining a club in high school can also provide an opportunity for students to relax and have some fun. Having fun is a vital piece of creating a memorable high school experience and it can help students perform better in class.

Not only is the social time enjoyable for some students, but participation in clubs can also help students develop their “soft” skills, such as effective communication and learning to work with others.

In addition to making friends, being in a club gives students the opportunity to bond with their faculty advisor, who is usually a teacher. Building a relationship with teachers during high school is important for getting quality letters of recommendation to add to those college applications.

💡 Quick Tip: Fund your education with a low-rate, no-fee SoFi private student loan that covers all school-certified costs.

Common High School Clubs

The list of high school clubs that are available at each school will differ. Generally, a school will have a variety of clubs available. These can range from clubs that are academic, like a foreign language club, to clubs that are artistic, like a creative writing club, or something that’s related to a student’s hobbies, like a video games club.

Usually, high schools will also have clubs that participate in some kind of volunteer work or community service. These can be clubs that do work in the community hospitals, in meal programs for the homeless or elderly, and much more.

Some clubs are high tech, like the robotics club, and some are more old-school, like the chess club. Schools will usually have a lot of variety in the types of clubs that exist, and there may be some clubs that are unique to just your school. Since students can often start their own clubs, there isn’t one set list of clubs that will exist at every school.

Recommended: How to Get Involved on Campus in College

Starting a Club

If students don’t like the selection of clubs available at their school (why doesn’t every school have a waffle club?) then they are generally able to start their own. Starting a new club has a lot of benefits for the students who choose to put in the work to get one up and running.

There is no list of “correct” clubs to start in high school, most colleges value students who show commitment to something they care about. It’s about the quality of the activities they spend time in, not the quantity.

Seeing that a student has started a new club will show college admissions that the student has developed leadership and organizational abilities. Starting a club shows initiative, and sometimes, students who start clubs will end up in one of the leadership positions, like President, Vice President, Secretary, or Treasurer.

Each school will have its own process for starting a club, but there are a few steps that will be the same everywhere. The first step is, of course, figuring out what the club is about. Is it going to focus on community service, something academic? Will it be focused more on fun and entertainment?

After a topic for the club is chosen, students should figure out what the purpose and goals of the club are. If the club is about chess, will students be learning how to play? Will club members be entering tournaments together? Figuring out the purpose of the club and what its goals are before members join will help limit confusion and manage everyone’s expectations.

At most schools, the club will have to get registered after its name and purpose are defined by founding members. Registering the club makes it official and once this step is complete students can actually begin enjoying their club.

What’s next? Gaining new members and planning the first club meeting. Once the club is official and ready to start, it’s time to focus on recruitment and preparing for the first meeting.

Students should choose a date, time, and location for the first meeting before recruiting, that way they have information to give interested students on when activities will be beginning.

Before the meeting, club members should know what they plan on discussing with the new recruits and how long they want the meeting to last. Usually, the first meeting is a good time to go over the club’s purpose and goals and to get contact information from the new members.

Sometime in the first few meetings, it may be a good idea to assign leadership roles for the club. These usually include President, Vice President, Secretary, and Treasurer. The way these roles function can differ from club to club, but their usual responsibilities are as follows:

•   The President will lead the club and supervise meetings and activities.
•   The Vice President assists the President and takes over their roles whenever the Present isn’t available.
•   The Secretary takes notes during meetings and helps keep all members up to date on the club’s plans.
•   The Treasurer will manage the club’s budget and keep track of expenses.

Assigning leadership roles will help keep the club running smoothly and make it easier for the club to meet its goals.

💡 Quick Tip: It’s a good idea to understand the pros and cons of private student loans and federal student loans before committing to them.

Planning Ahead for College

It’s really never too soon to start planning, as well as saving, for college. The process of researching schools and then applying can be time-consuming, so the earlier students begin their research, the less last-minute cramming they’ll have to do.

A vital piece of planning for college is figuring out how to finance college. Most schools come with a pretty large price tag, but there are a variety of ways that students can help fund their college tuition.

To apply for federal financial aid, students will need to fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). This will allow you to find out if you are eligible for different forms of financial aid, including grants, scholarship, federal student loans, and work-study. Grants and scholarships usually do not need to be repaid, whereas loans do need to be repaid.

It’s recommended that students exhaust their federal aid options before looking into private student loans. Federal loans come with certain benefits that private loans do not.

If students are not eligible for federal aid, or the financial aid they receive is not enough to meet their needs, there are other options, such as private scholarships and private student loans.

Scholarships are widely available and the eligibility criteria varies for each one. Some scholarships are need-based, while others are merit-based. Scholarships are available through schools, local communities, and corporations.

Taking out private student loans is another option for helping to fund a college education. These loans are available through private lenders, including banks, credit unions, and online lenders. Rates and terms vary, depending on the lender. Generally, borrowers (or cosigners) who have strong credit qualify for the lowest rates.

If you’ve exhausted all federal student aid options, no-fee private student loans from SoFi can help you pay for school. The online application process is easy, and you can see rates and terms in just minutes. Repayment plans are flexible, so you can find an option that works for your financial plan and budget.

Cover up to 100% of school-certified costs including tuition, books, supplies, room and board, and transportation with a private student loan from SoFi.


SoFi Loan Products
SoFi loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A., NMLS #696891 (Member FDIC). For additional product-specific legal and licensing information, see SoFi.com/legal. Equal Housing Lender.

SoFi Private Student Loans
Please borrow responsibly. SoFi Private Student Loans are not a substitute for federal loans, grants, and work-study programs. You should exhaust all your federal student aid options before you consider any private loans, including ours. Read our FAQs.
SoFi Private Student Loans are subject to program terms and restrictions, and applicants must meet SoFi’s eligibility and underwriting requirements. See SoFi.com/eligibility-criteria for more information. To view payment examples, click here. SoFi reserves the right to modify eligibility criteria at any time. This information is subject to change.

Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.

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Source: sofi.com

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In our latest real estate tech entrepreneur interview, we’re speaking with Eve Picker from Small Change.

Who are you, and what do you do?

I’m Eve Picker, the founder and CEO of Small Change. Small Change is an impact investing platform that focuses on transformative real estate projects – and it allows anyone over the age of 18 to invest.

What problem does your product/service solve?

We provide access to socially responsible real estate investment opportunities to everyone over the age of 18.

We provide a tool for developers to engage community members in a meaningful way by letting them invest in them.

And most importantly, we help bring transformative projects to fruition.

What are you most excited about right now?

Impact investing is growing in leaps and bounds. The democratization of finance is growing in leaps and bounds. When you combine those two trends, I think we’re on the precipice of large-scale change that will completely reorient the economy. That is exciting.

What’s next for you?

We are growing. We are expanding our slate of offerings and looking at new opportunities in new cities. And we’ll be offering some meaningful Opportunity Zone Funds investments to our crowd soon.

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

I’m passionate about cities and real estate.  I’m fortunate enough to have built a business that truly reflects my personal passions.

Thanks to Eve for sharing her story. If you’d like to connect, find her 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

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A federal judge has reversed the U.S. Treasury Department’s decertification of Change Lending, allowing the non-bank originator to resume its non-qualified mortgages to underserved borrowers. 

U.S. District Judge James V. Selna on Friday issued a temporary restraining order against the Community Development Financial Institutions Fund, which revoked Change’s status earlier this month. The certification grants lenders more flexible underwriting if they meet specific underserved lending thresholds. 

Change sued the CDFI Fund earlier this week in a California federal court, arguing the government office’s decertification was based on erroneous calculations. Change met a benchmark for a number of qualified transactions but missed a dollar amount qualification by less than 3 percentage points, the Fund allegedly said. 

“They did an analysis and never picked up the phone to say, ‘Hey, is our analysis correct?'” said Sanford Michelman, an attorney with Los Angeles-based Michelman & Robinson LLP on behalf of Change. 

Despite Change’s suggestion to review the data, the Fund never responded, Michelman said. The CDFI Fund revoked Change’s certification Aug. 17. 

Change in a statement Friday afternoon said it was relieved by the court’s quick action and it’s on track to permanently address the CDFI Fund’s “flawed analysis and mathematical errors.” It also noted both the Fund and Change agree on the lender’s 66% of lending to underserved borrower number. 

A spokesperson for the Fund declined to comment Friday afternoon. 

Change is one of the nation’s largest non-QM originators with $4.2 billion in volume last year, and has been certified with the Fund since 2018. It was founded by Steve Sugarman, the former chairman and CEO of Banc of California, after he resigned there amid an SEC probe in 2017.

The company came under scrutiny in June when a former Change employee accused it in a lawsuit of mischaracterizing its borrowers. The Securities and Exchange Commission is also allegedly investigating Change over its mortgage-backed securities it sold on Wall Street, a probe neither side has confirmed. 

Barron’s first reported Change’s decertification, and in June uncovered the lender’s business with wealthy clients such as Johnny Depp. Change has asserted its underserved lending bona fides, writing in its lawsuit it lent $6.8 billion to low-to-moderate income borrowers and $1.3 billion in persistent poverty areas. 

The Anaheim-based lender described in its complaint the bad math behind the decertification, suggesting only 188 loans in question led to the Fund’s “arbitrary and capricious” action. In one example, the Fund allegedly docked Change for not meeting an 80% of area median income threshold, when Change’s submitted data already included that 80% calculation. 

“This duplicative application of the 80% factor was therefore using 64% as the standard, rather than the proper 80% standard,” the lawsuit read. 

The Fund has a Sept. 11 deadline to submit an opposition to the court, Selna ordered. The sides are also set to appear before the judge Sept. 15 in Santa Ana, California to debate a more long standing preliminary injunction. 

Source: nationalmortgagenews.com

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California is known for its varied, lush landscapes, rich history, and high quality of life. It has 16 climate zones, ranging from dry desert basins and coastal hills, to snowy peaks and ancient forests. There’s a climate for everyone in California, which has made it a very appealing place to live. 

Weather patterns generally range from mild and wet in coastal metros like San Francisco, to more dry and extreme in southern and mountainous cities like Palm Springs and Truckee. However, weather can often turn into natural disasters like flooding, heat waves, and wildfires. When these happen, it’s essential to be prepared. So what are the most common natural disasters in California, how are they changing, and what can you do to prepare? Whether you’re planning a move to San Diego or are looking at apartments in San Jose, read on for everything you need to know.

1. California wildfires

Wildfires are the major disaster in California and have catastrophic impacts. They are by far the most common and destructive type of disaster in the state, and most years, California leads the nation in wildfires and acres burned. Most recently, the August Complex and Dixie Fires burned nearly 2 million acres.These fires cost hundreds of millions of dollars to fight, and created dangerous air quality across the Western US. 

California is also unique in how frequently fires affect people’s homes. From 2000-2019, over 70% of people living within the perimeter of wildfires in the US lived in California. Additionally, according to data from First Street Foundation, 71% (8.15 million) of properties in the state are at risk of being affected by wildfires.

The state’s dry season from spring through late autumn, combined with parched forests throughout the state, sets the stage for devastating fires that can spread incredibly quickly. Prolonged drought, heat waves, and windy weather are the primary causes of wildfires, which are becoming increasingly common as climate change progresses. Aging electrical infrastructure also plays a role. 

Wildfires can also devastate landscapes and hillsides, making them more susceptible to flooding, landslides, and mudslides.

How to prepare for wildfires in California

If you’re planning on moving to California or already live in the Golden State, preparing for wildfires is essential. Here are key tips to help: 

  • Create a defensible space around your property by removing flammable materials and trimming or removing dry vegetation.
  • Develop an emergency plan that includes evacuation routes and a communication strategy.
  • Install interior and exterior sprinkler systems, if you have access to enough water.
  • Install a generator to keep the power running in case of power outages. 
  • Stay updated on fire weather forecasts and follow all fire restrictions. 
  • Prepare for poor air quality by purchasing an air purifier and installing HEPA air filters on air conditioning units.
  • Assemble an emergency kit with essentials and valuable documents.
  • Ensure your insurance adequately covers fire damage, or, if the rising premiums are too high, understand the risks of going uninsured. Unfortunately, due to more frequent disasters, high interest rates, and a desire for less regulation, many insurance companies are no longer offering insurance to homeowners in California. 
  • Collaborate with your community to prevent fires. This is the most successful way to mitigate fire risk in your neighborhood.

2. California drought

Drought has been a severe issue in California for decades. From 2011 to 2022, the issue was extremely acute as reservoirs were drying up, prompting many water conservation regulations. California is one of many Southwestern states dealing with a megadrought that has plagued the region since 1990, primarily due to rising average temperatures and significantly reduced rainfall. 

However, because of record snowfall and a wet spring in 2023, most of California is no longer experiencing a drought. That said, this will likely be short-lived due to climate change, chronic groundwater overuse, and a declining Colorado River. 

Droughts differ from other natural disasters because they are often long-term events, rather than flooding or snowstorms that will generally pass in a day to a few weeks. However, the effects can be dramatic and significantly alter daily life. For example, some towns in the San Joaquin Valley have no access to fresh water and must rely on private companies and bottled water. 

Droughts can also increase the frequency and severity of other disasters, such as forest fires, dust storms, and heat waves.

How to prepare for drought in California

Because drought has already existed in California for decades, it’s important to adapt your lifestyle to accommodate lower water use and prepare for future restrictions. For example: 

3. California flooding 

California is known for its pleasant weather, but it’s actually very prone to flooding. In fact, from 1950-2017, floods prompted the second most disaster declarations, after wildfires. Floods have also affected people; 23% of properties in California have a chance of being severely damaged by flooding in the next 30 years.

A large portion of California is susceptible to flooding because much of it lies in an old lakebed and subsequent drainage areas. For example, a large portion of the Central Valley lies in an ancient lakebed that helped drain the Sierra Nevadas. Due to urbanization, dams, and agriculture, the lake was slowly drained and parts of it remain as dangerous floodplains during wet years.

In California, flooding is generally caused by dramatic rainfall, dam failures, snowmelt, and high tides. Most recently, from October 2022 to March 2023, California was battered by 31 atmospheric rivers, bringing record rainfall and snowpack to the state. While this dramatically improved the state’s drought outlook, it caused flooding and widespread damage. Flooding continued into the spring as the massive snowpack began to melt. 

Climate change is causing precipitation in California to fall more irregularly but intensely, leading to more flooding. 

How to prepare for flooding in California

Flood risks are different throughout the state, and preparation varies depending on where you live. For example, San Francisco and Sacramento are more susceptible to riverine flooding and levee failure, while Los Angeles is prone to flash flooding. Regardless, here are a few tips to help you prepare for floods:

  • Review the flood risk map for your area to see your potential risks.
  • Consider flood insurance if you’re in a high-risk zone. 
  • Keep emergency supplies on hand, including non-perishable food, water, medications, and important documents. 
  • Elevate valuable items in flood-prone areas of your home, and install sandbags or barriers if necessary.
  • Stay tuned to weather forecasts and alerts, and have a communication plan with your family. 

4. California landslides and mudslides

Landslides pose a significant risk to homeowners in California. They are a particularly bad natural disaster in regions with steep terrain, on the coast, and areas that have been affected by wildfires. Factors such as heavy rainfall, earthquakes, rapid snowmelt, and even construction or excavation can trigger landslides. Mudslides are similar to landslides and can develop in tandem or on their own after heavy rainfall or snowmelt. Importantly, mudslides are generally caused by weather events, as opposed to landslides which can be caused by naturally shifting rock.

Many areas of Southern California are at a higher risk of landslides and mudslides due to more severe fires followed by heavier rains. And as the fire season gets longer and the rainy season gets shorter but more intense, this is expected to worsen. Small landslides will now likely occur throughout the state every year, while major landslides are expected every 10-13 years. 

How to prepare for mudslides in California 

The most important part of preparing for a landslide is thinking ahead and familiarizing yourself with the landscape. Importantly, don’t build a home or structure near steep slopes, close to mountain edges, or along natural erosion valleys. This helps you minimize your risk without retrofitting or additional procedures. Here are some additional tips to help: 

  • Consult a professional for retrofitting, such as flexible pipe fittings.
  • Plant ground cover on slopes, and build retaining walls around your property. 
  • Build channels or deflection walls to direct mudflow around your home. However, if you build walls that direct flow into a neighbor’s property, you may be liable for damages. 
  • Consider purchasing additional insurance coverage, as standard homeowners insurance policies generally don’t cover damage from landslides or mudslides. If the landslide was the result of an earthquake or flooding, earthquake insurance or flood insurance may cover it. 
  • Stay alert during periods of heavy rain or seismic activity and follow any warnings from local authorities.
  • Recognize warning signs, such as new or widening cracks in your home’s structure, bulging ground, or unusual sounds.

5. California snowstorms and blizzards

Winter storms and blizzards are significant concerns in California, especially in the Sierra Nevadas. Recently, in February and March 2023, a string of storms brought many feet of snow to a majority of the state, prompting blizzard warnings throughout the state, including San Diego and Los Angeles counties. However, even though the storms were destructive, they helped increase the state’s snowpack to a record high. 

In California, snowstorms often come from atmospheric rivers hitting the tall Sierra Nevada mountains. Sometimes, storms can also affect the San Gabriel and San Bernardino mountains. These can bring many feet of snow over the course of a few hours to days, leading to road closures, power outages, downed trees, stranded travelers, and limited access to emergency services. 

Snowstorms can also turn into blizzards, which means that there are high sustained winds and low visibility (below ¼ of a mile for at least three hours). 

How to prepare for snowstorms and blizzards in California

Preparing for severe winter weather events is crucial to ensuring your safety and minimizing impact on your home and family. Here are a few tips to help you prepare for winter:

  • The first thing you should do is winterize your home by inspecting your roof, clearing gutters, cleaning your chimney, insulating your attic, checking your heating system, and insulating your pipes.
  • Update your emergency kit to include extra warmth. 
  • Keep a supply of firewood or alternative heating sources in case the power goes out. 
  • Equip your vehicle with chains, extra blankets, a shovel, and emergency supplies. 
  • Stay updated on weather forecasts and make sure you have a reliable method of communication.

6. California earthquakes

Earthquakes are a major risk in California. The state is home to over 15,700 fault lines, and many regions experience dozens of tiny earthquakes every day. If you move to the state, you’ll likely live within 30 miles of an active fault zone. Additionally, many Californians are anxiously awaiting the next “Big One,” which is predicted to occur along the southern section of the San Andreas Fault and would likely be devastating. 

There have been 16 notable earthquakes since 2010, with the most recent being the Ferndale quake in 2022. The California State Government offers an interactive map that shows all fault lines in the state, along with cities at risk. If you’re planning on moving to California and want to avoid areas at risk of shaking, use this map to help. 

How to prepare for earthquakes in California

Earthquakes are irregular but destructive and can cause significant damage to structures, utilities, and water systems. Main shocks can last for minutes, while aftershocks can last for years. They can also strike suddenly, at any time, with only seconds of warning, so preparing your home is critical. Here are a few tips to help: 

  • Purchase earthquake insurance to cover some losses in the event of a quake. This is a separate policy that you purchase in addition to regular homeowners’ insurance. It’s also available to renters.
  • Download the MyShake App and make sure you have a durable, charged communication device in case of an emergency. 
  • If you rent, ask your landlord about the building’s seismic history. 
  • Practice drop, cover, and hold on, so you are ready when a quake hits. 
  • Keep your emergency kit stocked, updated, and accessible. 
  • Anchor heavy items to the wall, strap down expensive electronics, and secure small valuables. 
  • Brace your water heater according to state law
  • Ensure your gas lines have flexible connections.
  • If you live in a house built before 1980, it will likely need to be retrofitted. Don’t do this yourself; hire a seismic retrofitting professional. 
  • If you live near the coast, you should also prepare for a possible tsunami following an earthquake. Understand your evacuation routes and be on the watch for official warnings.

Final thoughts on natural disasters in California

California’s climate is known as the land of extremes. Winter storms, summer heat, earthquakes, landslides, drought, wind, and more make it a varied and unpredictable place to live. While it has historically been one of the top migration destinations, recently, it’s a state many people are moving out of (partly due to the high cost of living in coastal cities). Because of this, the state’s population has declined by over 1.5% since 2020.

If you’re considering moving to California or already call the Golden State home, make sure you’re prepared for natural disasters and long-term weather events. Understanding your risks and adequately preparing are helpful to make the most out of living in California. The National Weather Service also offers an experimental map that shows all forecasted risks for the upcoming seven days. 

Lastly, many natural disasters are worsened by climate change. So no matter how you prepare, reducing your carbon footprint and fighting for systemic change are the best long-term solutions. 

This article is for informational purposes only. Individual results may vary. This is not intended as a substitute for the services of a licensed and bonded home services or disaster prevention professional. Always seek expert advice and follow all official guidance before, during, and after a disaster.

Source: redfin.com

Apache is functioning normally

A lot rides on a home appraisal, whether you’re trying to sell a house, refinance your mortgage or tap into your home equity.

An appraisal may come in lower than you expected because property values dropped or because you’ve overestimated your home’s market value. But the appraisal process isn’t foolproof, and there are options if you think the appraiser got it wrong, or you suspect that you’ve been subject to appraisal discrimination.

Here’s what to do if your home appraises for less than you think it should.

Understand how an appraisal affects home equity

A home appraisal is a licensed appraiser’s opinion of home value, based on research, analysis and professional judgment. Lenders require an appraisal for most kinds of home loans because the property serves as collateral for the loan — they don’t want to lend more than the property is worth. Lenders plug the appraised value into a formula called the loan-to-value ratio (LTV) — the loan balance divided by the home value. A combined LTV includes the balance of the mortgage plus the amount of a home equity loan or line of credit. The ratio affects the amount you can extract in home equity and whether you can refinance.

Here’s an example of how the appraised value would affect borrowing from your home equity. Say, for instance, a lender’s maximum combined LTV is 85%. You’d like to borrow $100,000 through a home equity loan and currently owe $200,000 on your mortgage.

If your home appraised for $375,000, your combined loan-to-value ratio (300,000 divided by 375,000) would be 80%, and you might qualify. But if the home appraised for $325,000, the LTV (300,000 divided by 325,000) would be 92%, too high to meet the lender’s requirement.

Check the appraisal report for accuracy

The lender is required to send a free copy of the appraisal report to the loan applicant at least three days before the loan closes. So you’ll get one if you’re refinancing or applying for a home equity loan. But in a home sale, the buyer will receive it as part of the mortgage process. If you’re the seller, work with your real estate agent to get a copy of the report from the buyer.

The appraisal report documents a slew of property details that the appraiser considered in the valuation. Even the best appraisers can make mistakes, so scour the report to make sure all the particulars are correct, such as:

  • Number of bedrooms and bathrooms.

  • Square footage.

  • Amenities, including fireplaces, patios and pools.

  • Garage type and condition.

  • Condition of roof, furnace or other major systems listed on the report.

  • Additional features, such as energy-efficient systems.

Evaluate the ‘comps’

To help determine home value, appraisers consider prices of comparable homes that were recently sold in the area, known as real estate comps.

Check which homes were used. Were they truly comparable? How nearby are the homes, and how recently were they sold?

You may want to ask a friendly real estate agent familiar with your neighborhood — or your agent, if you’re working with one — for a list of recent comparable sales.

🤓Nerdy Tip

Understand that appraisals are different from online home value estimates. The appraisal isn’t wrong just because it’s lower than the ballpark figure you saw online. Home appraisals take more details into account than home-search algorithms can, so use online estimates as guidelines only.

Submit a ‘Reconsideration of Value’

Promptly document any mistakes or missing information from the appraisal report, as well as any additional information about comparable sales that you think should be considered. If you’re the loan applicant, then submit that written information as part of a “reconsideration of value” to your lender.

If you’re the home seller, ask your real estate agent to communicate those issues to the buyer and ask the buyer to submit the information to their lender.

Although the loan applicant ultimately pays for the appraisal, the appraiser actually works for the lender. So any feedback about the appraisal should go to the lender, not the appraiser.

The lender will pass along the information to the appraiser. The information you provide could prompt the appraiser to revise the valuation, but only if the additional details are relevant and significant enough to move the needle.

A loan applicant could also ask for a second appraisal or start over with a different lender. But appraisals typically cost at least a few hundred dollars, and there’s no guarantee the next appraisal will come in higher.

File a complaint if you suspect discrimination

Under the U.S. Fair Housing Act of 1968, home appraisers aren’t allowed to discriminate based on someone’s race, color, religion, sex, disability, family status or national origin. Yet many media reports in recent years have highlighted instances in which properties appraised for more when Black homeowners hid evidence of their race. Although the stories were new, the concept of “white-washing” a home to get a fair value has a long and painful history in the Black community.

Another option is to file a fair housing complaint. You can do that directly with the Department of Housing and Urban Development’s Office of Fair Housing and Equal Opportunity or get help through your local fair housing center. Funded through HUD’s Fair Housing Initiatives Program, fair housing centers do preliminary investigations and help people navigate the complaint process. You can find a fair housing organization near you on the HUD website.

Refinance programs that don’t require appraisals

If you have a mortgage backed by the Federal Housing Administration or the Department of Veterans Affairs, you may be able to refinance without getting an appraisal. These programs, however, don’t let you cash out any of your home equity:

Source: nerdwallet.com

Apache is functioning normally

Downey Savings was shut down late Friday by the FDIC on a busy day where two other banks were also seized.

US Bank has agreed to take on the company’s banking operations, including its 170 branches in California and five in Arizona.

The news doesn’t come as much of a surprise, given Downey’s dismal share price and the admission of a consent order demanding it raise capital by year-end or face conservatorship.

It’s unclear to what extent the Newport Beach, CA-based bank and mortgage lender was still lending, given it dropped its wholesale lending unit back in mid-October.

That channel had historically provided roughly 80 percent of all single-family loan origination volume.

As of the end of the third quarter, Downey had total deposits of $9.7 billion and $12.8 in total assets, many of which were non-performing.

PFF Bank and Trust Acquired by US Bank

It was a busy afternoon for US Bank, who also agreed to acquire Pomona, CA-based PFF Bank and Trust, along with its $3.7 billion in assets, $2.4 billion in deposits, and 37 branches.

The combined failures will cost the FDIC roughly $2.1 billion, further diminishing its already vulnerable Deposit Insurance Fund (DIF).

A third bank, The Community Bank, located in Loganville, Georgia, was also seized.

A total of 22 banks have failed so far this far, including five in the state of California alone.

I suspect a number of other banks will fail within the next month as well, given the precarious trading prices of a number of banks out there at the moment.

Check out the latest list of closed lenders, mortgage layoffs and mergers.

Source: thetruthaboutmortgage.com