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Spokane, WA, is rich in history, natural beauty, and unique attractions. Beyond its well-known features, there are plenty of fascinating and fun facts that make Spokane a great place to explore. From being the birthplace of Father’s Day to hosting the world’s largest 3-on-3 outdoor basketball tournament, Hoopfest, Spokane has a trove of intriguing stories and hidden gems waiting to be discovered. 

In this Redfin article, we will delve into some surprising and fun facts about Spokane. So Whether you’re looking to rent an apartment in Spokane or purchase a home in the area, prepare to be entertained and enlightened by what makes this city truly special.

1. The city is named after a Native American Tribe

Spokane derives its name from the Spokane Tribe, an indigenous community that has inhabited the region for centuries. The word “Spokane” comes from the Salish language spoken by the tribe and means “Children of the Sun” or “Sun People.” The Spokane Tribe has a rich cultural heritage and historical significance in the area, and its influence is reflected in the city’s naming. By adopting the name of the tribe, Spokane acknowledges the indigenous roots of the land and pays tribute to the native peoples who have called the region home for generations.

2. Its nickname is the Lilac City

Affectionately known as the “Lilac City,” Spokane’s nickname stems from its long-standing association with the beautiful and fragrant lilac flower. The origin of this nickname can be traced back to the early 20th century when the Spokane Garden Expo showcased an abundance of lilac blooms. Inspired by the sight and aroma of the flowers, locals embraced the nickname “Lilac City” as a symbol of civic pride. Since then, Spokane has continued cultivating its reputation as a city of lilacs, hosting an annual Lilac Festival and Parade, where the community celebrates the blossoming of these vibrant flowers. 

3. Spokane Falls is one of the largest urban waterfalls in the US

Spokane Falls holds the distinction of being one of the largest urban waterfalls in the United States. The Spokane River forms the falls as it cascades through large basalt rock formations. The main drop, known as the Upper Falls, measures around 100 feet in height and spans a width of over 500 feet. 

4. The city is home to Hoopfest

Spokane is widely recognized as the home of Hoopfest, the largest 3-on-3 outdoor basketball tournament in the world. Every year, the streets of downtown Spokane are transformed into a basketball mecca as thousands of teams gather to participate. Hoopfest attracts players of all ages and skill levels, from amateurs to seasoned veterans. With over 450 courts spread across several city blocks, the tournament spans an impressive distance and showcases the love and passion for basketball that permeates the Spokane community. 

5. It is the smallest city to host the World’s Fair

The city holds the distinction of being the smallest city to host a World’s Fair. In 1974, Spokane hosted Expo ’74, a prestigious international exposition recognized by the Bureau International des Expositions (BIE). The fair centered around the theme of environmental preservation and sustainability, focusing on the importance of clean water. The Expo ’74 site, situated along the banks of the Spokane River, was transformed into a sprawling fairground featuring numerous pavilions, exhibits, and attractions. The event not only showcased the natural beauty of the region but also highlighted Spokane’s commitment to environmental awareness and stewardship. 

6. Spokane is the birthplace of Father’s Day

Spokane is the birthplace of Father’s Day. Father’s Day was first proposed by Sonora Smart Dodd, a Spokane native, in 1909. Inspired by the newly established Mother’s Day, Sonora sought to honor and recognize the significant role that fathers play in their children’s lives. With the support of local organizations and community leaders, Spokane celebrated the first official Father’s Day on June 19, 1910. The event gained popularity and gradually spread across the country, eventually becoming a nationally recognized holiday in 1972 when President Richard Nixon signed it into law. 

7. The city is home to Bing Crosby

Spokane proudly claims Bing Crosby as one of its most famous native sons. Born as Harry Lillis Crosby Jr. in Tacoma, Washington, Crosby grew up in Spokane, where he discovered his passion for music and entertainment. Rising to international stardom, Crosby became one of the most iconic and influential entertainers of the 20th century, with a career that spanned over six decades. Renowned for his smooth baritone voice and charismatic stage presence, Crosby succeeded as a singer, actor, and radio personality. He recorded numerous hit songs, including the timeless holiday classic “White Christmas,” which remains one of the best-selling singles ever. 

8. Spokane is home to Gonzaga University

Spokane is home to Gonzaga University, known for its academic excellence and basketball program. Founded in 1887 by Father Joseph Cataldo, an Italian-born Jesuit priest, the university offers various undergraduate and graduate programs. The campus is characterized by its beautiful architecture, blending historic buildings with modern facilities. Gonzaga University’s athletic program, the Gonzaga Bulldogs, has gained prominence in NCAA Division I sports, particularly basketball, where the team has consistently achieved national rankings and made numerous appearances in the NCAA tournament.

Source: redfin.com

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Welcome to Tampa, FL, a city renowned for its vibrant culture, stunning waterfront, and idyllic year-round weather. If you’re in the market for a luxury home in this thriving city, get ready to discover an array of exceptional features and amenities that will leave you captivated. 

Whether you’re considering living in Tampa or currently looking at homes for sale in the city, Tampa’s luxury real estate market offers a diverse range of lavish homes, each boasting unique attributes that cater to the discerning tastes of potential homebuyers. From waterfront properties with private docks and panoramic views to expansive outdoor living spaces, cutting-edge smart home technologies, and luxurious interiors, this Redfin article unveils the extraordinary features that make luxury homes in Tampa truly stand out. Join us as we delve into the world of luxury home features in Tampa, where your dream residence awaits.

1. Waterfront property

One of the most coveted home features in Tampa is waterfront property. Living on the water offers a unique and desirable lifestyle that perfectly captures the essence of this coastal city. Whether it’s a residence situated directly on the waterfront or one with breathtaking water views, this feature instantly adds a touch of tranquility to any luxury home. Imagine waking up to stunning sunrises over the glistening waves, enjoying the gentle sea breeze from your own backyard, and having easy access to various water activities right from your doorstep. 

Folding doors that provide unobstructed water views are a popular feature to create a sense of openness and connection to the natural environment. These expansive doors seamlessly blend indoor and outdoor living spaces, allowing residents to enjoy breathtaking vistas of the surrounding waterways. 

2. New or updated homes

While the city embraces its charming historic architecture, there is a growing demand for modern amenities and contemporary design. New or recently updated homes offer the advantage of modern construction techniques, energy-efficient features, and the latest advancements in home technology.

These homes often boast open floor plans, gourmet kitchens with state-of-the-art appliances, luxurious master suites, and upgraded finishes throughout. From sleek finishes to smart home automation systems, every detail is carefully curated to meet the needs and preferences of today’s discerning homebuyers. 

3. Boat dock

Another sought-after home feature in Tampa, Florida, is a boat dock with a lift. For those who enjoy boating and water sports, having a private dock with a lift adds convenience, security, and endless opportunities for aquatic adventures. When you’re not using the boat, you can use a lift to safely store your boat out of the water, protecting it from the elements and minimizing maintenance. 

4. High-end finishes

In the luxury real estate market, there are several additional features and amenities that can truly elevate a home listing, setting it apart from other properties. High-end finishes, such as unique marble, granite, or quartz, add a touch of luxury to the home. These additional features and amenities not only enhance the aesthetic appeal but also contribute to an elevated living experience.

5. Newly remodeled kitchen

A luxury home feature that is quickly gaining popularity among homebuyers for Redfin Premier listings is a newly remodeled kitchen. In today’s real estate market, the kitchen has evolved into more than just a space for meal preparation—it’s the heart of the home and a focal point for socializing and entertaining. 

A newly remodeled kitchen offers a fresh and modern aesthetic, with sleek countertops, high-end appliances, and custom cabinetry that exudes both style and functionality. It provides a seamless blend of form and function, catering to the needs and desires of discerning homeowners. With open-concept layouts, ample storage, and innovative design elements, these remodeled kitchens are perfect for hosting gatherings and creating culinary masterpieces. 

6. Pool and spa

One of the quintessential luxury home features in Tampa is a pool and/or spa, often accompanied by a spacious lanai. The city’s warm climate and abundant sunshine make outdoor living a year-round delight, and a pool and spa area serves as a private oasis within your own property. Whether you prefer to take dips in the pool, relax in the spa, or simply bask in the sun on poolside loungers, a pool and spa offers endless opportunities for relaxation and recreation. 

The addition of a lanai, a covered outdoor area, provides shade and protection from the elements while allowing you to enjoy the poolside ambiance. It serves as an extension of the living space, perfect for relaxing with a book, entertaining guests, or simply unwinding with family and friends. 

7. Gated communities

Homebuyers in Tampa who are seeking exclusivity, security, and a sense of community often gravitate towards gated communities, especially those situated within prestigious golf communities. 

A gated entry provides an extra layer of privacy and peace of mind, allowing residents to enjoy a heightened sense of security. Within these gated communities, golf enthusiasts have the advantage of convenient access to meticulously designed golf courses, where they can perfect their swing and indulge in their passion for the sport. Additionally, these communities often boast a range of amenities such as clubhouses, fitness centers, swimming pools, and tennis courts, providing a resort-like lifestyle right at your doorstep. 

Top neighborhoods with luxury home features in Tampa

Notable neighborhoods that boast luxury home features include Belleair Beach, Belleair Bluffs, and Belleair Shore, as well as Palm Harbor. These areas are renowned for their exquisite residences and amenities that elevate the standard of luxury living. Bellaire Beach offers an exclusive coastal lifestyle with stunning waterfront properties, pristine beaches, and panoramic views of the Gulf of Mexico. Bellaire Bluffs exudes elegance with its tree-lined streets, upscale homes, and close proximity to boutique shops and fine dining. Bellaire Shores boasts a picturesque setting along the Intracoastal Waterway, offering residents unparalleled waterfront living and access to boating and fishing. Palm Harbor, known for its serene natural beauty and golf course communities, provides a tranquil retreat while still being conveniently located near shopping, dining, and cultural attractions. 

Homebuyers are willing to pay premium prices to live in these neighborhoods, and Belleair Shore, in particular, had a median sale price of $5.92 million in December 2022, about 14x the median sale price of in Tampa.

A final note on luxury home features in Tampa

It’s no surprise that proximity to the water is a defining factor of luxury for many homes in Tampa. While it’s common for homes in Pinellas County to be situated on or near the water, what truly adds to the charm and allure is the fact that not all waterfront homes are created equal. The diversity in locations within the county ensures that each property holds its own unique appeal. 

Some luxury homes may boast direct waterfront access, offering breathtaking views and easy navigation for boating enthusiasts. Others may be nestled in peaceful inland neighborhoods, where residents can still enjoy the coastal lifestyle and the beauty of nearby waterways. The variety of options means that luxury can be found in different settings, catering to the preferences and desires of discerning homebuyers. Whether it’s the tranquility of a waterfront retreat or the proximity to the water’s edge, Tampa offers a range of options that contribute to the overall charm and exclusivity of luxury living in the area.

 A local Redfin Premier agent will provide invaluable insights into the market, including an in-depth understanding of the neighborhoods, pricing trends, and available luxury properties. 

Source: redfin.com

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Canceling a life insurance policy is an important decision that can have financial and emotional implications.

Deciding whether to continue with your life insurance policy or cancel it is not just a significant financial choice, it can also have profound emotional implications.

After all, life insurance isn’t just a monetary consideration – it’s about ensuring that your loved ones are protected in case of your untimely demise.

However, sometimes circumstances may lead you to contemplate canceling your life insurance policy. The question then arises: should you and if so, how do you go about it? Let’s delve deeper.

Understanding Life Insurance Policies: More Than Meets the Eye

First off, to make an informed decision, it’s crucial to understand the two main types of life insurance policies that are on the market.

Term Life Insurance: The Straightforward Option

As its name suggests, term life insurance provides coverage for a specified term, which typically ranges from 10 to 30 years. If you pass away during this term, your designated beneficiaries receive the policy’s death benefit. This type of insurance is often viewed as the simpler and more affordable option, as it strictly provides coverage without any investment component.

Permanent Life Insurance: Coverage Plus Investment

On the other hand, permanent life insurance policies, such as whole life or universal life insurance, provide coverage for your entire lifetime and include an investment element known as cash value. This cash value portion grows over time and can be borrowed against or even surrendered for cash, making this type of policy more complex and usually more expensive.

Reasons for Canceling Life Insurance: Making the Tough Call

Several scenarios might lead you to contemplate canceling your life insurance policy.

Financial Reasons: When the Premiums are too High

It could be that the premiums have become unaffordable due to changes in your financial circumstances. As the cost of living increases, especially in the light of rising inflation as highlighted in a recent FT Adviser report, it’s not uncommon for individuals, especially those over 50, to consider cutting back on their life insurance.

Policy No Longer Needed: When Life Takes a Better Turn

Your reasons for canceling could also be positive. Maybe your children have grown up and become financially independent, or your financial status has improved significantly since you first took out the policy.

Considerations Before Canceling Your Life Insurance: Weigh Your Options

But before you make the decision to cancel your life insurance policy, there are several factors to consider.

Evaluate Your Current Situation: Checking the Safety Net

Firstly, evaluate your current financial situation. You should be sure that you and your dependents won’t need the safety net that life insurance provides in the future.

Understand Potential Consequences: The Trade-Offs

It’s important to understand the potential consequences of canceling your life insurance. If you cancel your term life insurance, you won’t receive any money back and will be left without coverage.

On the other hand, canceling a permanent life insurance policy might allow you to recover some of the cash value, but could also result in surrender charges, especially if the policy is still in its early years, as pointed out by a Forbes Advisor article.

Alternatives to Canceling: Is There a Middle Ground?

Before canceling your policy outright, it’s worth exploring other options. For instance, you could reduce the death benefit to lower the premiums or even switch to a more affordable term life insurance policy if you currently have a permanent life insurance policy.

How to Cancel Your Life Insurance: Following the Right Steps

If, after considering all the implications and alternatives, you still decide that canceling your life insurance is the best course of action, then here are the steps you need to take.

Steps to Cancel Term Life Insurance: It’s All About Communication

The process for canceling term life insurance is generally straightforward. First, you need to contact your insurance provider and inform them of your intention to cancel the policy. This could be over the phone, via email, or sometimes through an online portal.

Ensure you follow all the steps they provide and always ask for a confirmation of your policy’s cancellation. It’s also important you understand your rights to canceling your insurance policy.

Steps to Cancel Permanent Life Insurance: A Bit More Complex

The process of canceling a permanent life insurance policy, on the other hand, could be a bit more complex, particularly because of the cash value component. You may need to complete a policy surrender form or send a written request to your insurance provider.

Remember:

Always confirm the details with your insurer and remember that you might be entitled to receive some of the policy’s cash value upon surrendering the policy.

Life After Canceling Your Life Insurance: Managing Your Risks

The aftermath of canceling your life insurance policy requires careful financial planning. Now that you no longer have the protection that the policy provided, you need to manage the financial risk that the policy once covered.

Managing Financial Risk: New Strategies

This risk management could involve several strategies, from building an emergency fund to investing for your long-term financial goals.

Setting Up an Emergency Fund: An Essential Buffer

An emergency fund is an essential financial tool that provides a buffer against sudden expenses or financial emergencies. It ensures that even if unexpected costs arise, you have a financial cushion to rely on.

Investing for Long-term Goals: Playing the Long Game

By investing, you can grow your wealth over time and work towards achieving your financial goals. Whether it’s retirement planning, saving for a home, or investing in your child’s education, having a robust investment strategy can provide financial security in the long run.

Conclusion: Making the Best Choice for You

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Canceling your life insurance policy is a significant decision that should be made with careful consideration. It’s crucial to weigh the potential risks and benefits, evaluate your current and future financial situation, and explore all available alternatives.

Remember, the right choice will depend on your unique circumstances and the needs of your dependents.

FAQs – Cancelling Life Insurance Policy

Can I cancel my life insurance policy?

Yes, you can cancel your life insurance policy at any time. It’s your right as the policyholder to do so.

How do I cancel my life insurance policy?

The cancellation process may vary depending on your insurance provider. Generally, you can contact your insurance company directly and inform them of your decision to cancel. They will guide you through the necessary steps and paperwork.

Will I get a refund if I cancel my policy?

It depends on the type of life insurance policy you have. Term life insurance policies typically do not have a cash value, so cancelling them usually doesn’t result in a refund.

However, if you have a permanent life insurance policy, such as whole life or universal life, there may be a cash surrender value that you could receive upon cancellation.

Are there any fees or penalties for cancelling my life insurance policy?

Some life insurance policies may have surrender charges or penalties for early cancellation. These charges are more common with permanent life insurance policies, and they can vary depending on the specific terms of your policy.

Review your policy documents or contact your insurance company to understand any potential fees or penalties.

Source: goodfinancialcents.com

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PRESS RELEASE

Published July 7, 2023

POP Home Fabric transforms home decor shopping with a user friendly online store, offering premium fabrics and personalized service.

Hamilton, Ontario, Canada – July 7, 2023 —

POP Home Fabric, a leading provider of luxury home textiles and textile products, is excited to announce the launch of its eagerly anticipated online store. This development will fundamentally alter how those who enjoy home decor purchase materials.

The goal of POP Home Fabric is to make the process of home decorating simple and enjoyable, for which it has developed a user friendly website (https://pophomefabric.com/) that offers an extensive range of high quality fabrics, making it easy for customers to find the ideal materials for their interior design projects.

The recently released platform offers an easy to understand interface which makes buying easier. The website offers simple navigation across several categories, including outdoor, upholstery, and drapery fabrics. Customers can find the perfect alternative to match their style and preferences thanks to each category’s wide range of fabric choices.

One of the standout features of the POP Home Fabric website is its advanced search functionality. Customers may easily find their desired options by searching for fabrics by color, pattern, material, and even fabric measurements. The platform also gives buyers access to fabric samples, high resolution photos, and complete product descriptions to aid in their decision-making.

CEO of POP Home Fabric says, “We are excited to introduce our innovative online platform, which aims to simplify the fabric shopping experience for our customers.” We aim to empower and thrill our clients by providing a vast selection of top-notch resources and an effortless browsing experience.

POP Home Fabrics is Canada’s first comprehensive Upholstery, Drapery and Home Decor Fabric store. With reliable and exclusive Canadian suppliers, Upholstery fabric in Toronto, Canada is able to deliver high quality upholstery and drapery fabrics for customer’s homes.

Along with a large selection of items and an intuitive layout, POP Home Fabric enjoys offering exceptional customer service. The company’s dedicated staff of specialists is on hand to offer individualized advice and guidance throughout the shopping experience to ensure that customers receive the support they need to fulfill their creative ambitions.

Pop Home Fabrics, is committed to bring personalized customer service to internet shopping.To learn more about POP Home Fabric and to explore their wide selection of premium fabrics, please visit https://pophomefabric.com/.

About POP Home Fabric

POP Home Fabric is a leading premium home fabric and textile product provider. With a wide range of options, including upholstery, drapery, and outdoor fabrics, POP Home Fabric aims to make the fabric shopping experience seamless and enjoyable. With a commitment to exceptional customer service, POP Home Fabric strives to inspire and empower customers in their home decorating journey.

Contact Info:
Name: Support
Email: Send Email
Organization: POP HOME
Website: https://pophomefabric.com/

Release ID: 89101792

If you detect any issues, problems, or errors in this press release content, kindly contact [email protected] to notify us. We will respond and rectify the situation in the next 8 hours.

COMTEX_436531960/2773/2023-07-07T09:27:59

Marketers Media

Source: digitaljournal.com

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The Offer

Direct link to offer

  • Capital One Venture card is offering 100,000 points after $5,000 in spend within the first 3 months

Card Details

  • $95 annual fee; fee is not waived the first year
  • Card earns 2x points everywhere (the equivalent of 2% everywhere)
  • Card earns 5x points on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel
  • Card earns 5x points per dollar on Turo car rentals through 5/16/23
  • No foreign transaction fees
  • Visa Signature benefits
  • Receive up to a $100 credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck

Our Verdict

Same offer as the recent deal, but doesn’t seem to be linked from a kiosk from what I can see. Previous best offer required $10,000 in spend. Because this has a lower minimum spend requirement/no kiosk requirement we will add this to the best credit card bonuses.

Source: doctorofcredit.com

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After extraordinary home value growth characterized a frenzied housing market in 2017 and 2018, this year’s slowdown felt like a welcome return to normalcy for many in the industry. And Zillow is predicting more of the same in 2020, with the market set to stabilize near historic norms.

Changing
tastes as millennials make up a growing share of home buyers will
impact the market. Homes will get smaller, bold colors and prints
will return to home designs and demand will stay high as more and
more people reach typical home buying age.

Here’s Zillow’s predictions for housing in 2020:

Homes will continue to shrink

The sprawling, suburban homes that Baby Boomers coveted will increasingly become a relic of the past in 2020 and into the next decade as the median square footage of newly built, single-family homes will fall for the fourth time in five years. The typical U.S. home has shrunk by more than 80 square feet since 2015i. Millennials, the largest group of buyers in 2020, are proving to be have much different tastes and lifestyles than their parents’ generation. Many prefer homes in urban areas with an abundance of amenities within walking distance over the mansions in the exurbs that boomers are vacating.

The U.S. will not enter a recession in 2020

As recently as July, half of experts surveyed by Zillow predicted a recession would begin in 2020. However, the U.S. economy has remained resilient to expected headwinds like ongoing trade volatility and the possibility of a stock market retreat. Consumer spending has picked back up – reflecting healthy consumer confidence – job creation is on a steady path and annual wage growth has stayed at or above 3% since October 2018. Economic and home value growth should continue into 2021, although perhaps at a slower pace than in recent years.

Home value and rent growth will be slower and steadier

Home value growth is expected to grow 2.8% from December 2019 to December 2020, according to a survey of more than 100 housing experts and economistsii. That’s down from 4.7% annual growth in October, the latest month for which data is available. Zillow expects rent growth to continue accelerating into the spring, before dipping below 2% by the end of 2020.

Mortgage rates will stay low, keeping housing demand high

Mortgage rates fell markedly in 2019 and are expected to remain low for the bulk of 2020. That will keep demand strong and continue to fuel decent price growth in the nation’s most broadly affordable markets. But low rates don’t help overcome the upfront hurdle of high down payment requirements, pushing buyers in expensive areas to fan out in search of areas they can better afford.

Sales will climb again after a downturn in 2018

For-sale inventory is near historic lows, but that doesn’t mean a dearth of sales. In fact, the low inventory is largely a result of high demand from buyers that snatch up homes as soon as they hit the market. There are more and more potential buyers as the large Millennial generation is reaching peak homebuying age in greater numbers each year, and they are benefiting from low mortgage rates, an increase in new construction permits and technology – such as Zillow Offers and other iBuyers – that is reducing friction in the market.

Color will make a comeback

Goodbye, Hygge. Hello, color! Fun will return to home design in the form of bold prints, lively wallpaper and brightly hued walls. After a decade of Scandinavian modern design that dominated retail and social media feeds as Americans embraced neutrals, minimalism and clutter-free living, expect a shift toward playful, creative design. Look for color to be injected in unexpected ways in kitchen cabinetry and appliances, in lighting fixtures and on interior doors and moldings.

“With the housing market stabilizing from the drama of the price recovery and the slowdown during 2019’s home shopping season, we have a rare moment of calm to reflect on what housing might look like in the year to come,” Zillow’s Director of Economic Research Skylar Olsen said in a statememt. “If current trends hold, then slower means healthier and smaller means more affordable. Yes, we expect a slower market than we’ve become accustomed to the last few years, but don’t mistake this for a buyer-friendly environment – consumers will continue to absorb available inventory and the market will remain competitive in much of the country. But while the national story is a confident one, housing in some manufacturing-heavy markets may see adversity. The struggle could be even more stark, since similarly affordable housing markets with a more balanced job profile may be 2020’s rising stars.”

Mike Wheatley is the senior editor at Realty Biz News. Got a real estate related news article you wish to share, contact Mike at [email protected]
Latest posts by Mike Wheatley (see all)

Source: realtybiznews.com

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As competition heats up among home buyers in an increasingly tight market, some condominium and co-op boards are demanding that pet owners subject their furry friends to an ‘interview’ to make sure they’re a good fit.

Indeed,
some boards require a pets to have full resume with a headshot, and
even a recommendation letter in some cases.

The Wall Street Journal reports that a couple named Heidi DeCoo and Carl Norton were given such a request when they tried to buy a $500,000 co-op apartment in Manhattan. According to them, the co-op’s board insisted on meeting their two gray-haired schnoodles (a breed combining a miniature schnauzer and poodle) before they would allow the purchase to go ahead. Luckily for them, the board decided the dogs wouldn’t be a problem and signed off on the sale.

The
idea of ‘interviewing’ pets has had a mixed reaction. On the one
hand, some real estate agents say it’s absolutely absurd.

“It’s
an animal,” Janna Raskopf, a real estate pro, told the Journal.
“It’s not like you can say to it, ‘We’re going on an
interview, so be on your best behavior.’”

But
co-op and condo boards insist they have the right to meet with
tenants’ pets as there are genuine concerns to be addressed. They
don’t want dogs fighting in the hallways or waking up other
residents with their barking, for example. Boards are also worried
they might be held responsible legally if a tenants’ pet bites
another person.

Now,
some boards are going even further, bringing in experts who’ll do a
10-minute evaluation of a pet to assess if it’s likely to be a good
neighbor or not.

But this is putting pressure on condo applicants, some of whom have admitted to buying medication to calm their pets down for the interview. Others have taken their pets to animal counselors to ensure they’re on their best behavior.

Condo
and co-op boards are becoming stricter about which kinds of pets
they’ll allow to live in their buildings, with several breeds being
banned due to their aggressive or unruly behavior. The Journal
reported that one New York City building has banned a long list of
dog breeds, including Alaskan malamutes, caucasian mountain dogs,
chihuahuas, chow chows, dachshunds, dalmatians, doberman pinschers,
German shepherds, huskies, Jack Russell terriers, lhasa apsos, Old
English sheepdogs, papillons, pekingese, pinschers, pit bulls, presa
canarios, Rottweilers, toy poodles, and schnauzers. And the
building’s board will only approve pets if their owner signs a
letter acknowledging the pet is only allowed to stay at their
discretion, initially on a trial basis.

Mike Wheatley is the senior editor at Realty Biz News. Got a real estate related news article you wish to share, contact Mike at [email protected]
Latest posts by Mike Wheatley (see all)

Source: realtybiznews.com

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Southern California home prices last month were unchanged from a year ago, the first time there hasn’t been a year-over-year decline since September 2007, according to DataQuick.

The median price paid for a home in the Southland last month was $285,000, a 1.8 percent increase from October.

Of course, the median is still 43.6 percent below the peak of $505,000 seen back in early and mid 2007, before the mortgage crisis got in full swing.

A total of 19,181 new and resale homes and condos sold in six Southland counties during the month, down from 22,132 in October, but 14.7 percent higher than the 16,720 sales seen a year ago.

DataQuick said sales have been pushed higher thanks to the first-time homebuyer tax credit, the record low mortgage rates, and “robust investor activity.”

“This market is still really lopsided. Foreclosures and short sales are huge factors,” said John Walsh, MDA DataQuick president, in a release.

“There’s still not a lot of discretionary buying and selling outside the more affordable markets. Anybody who can sit tight is doing just that. The market won’t fully rebalance itself until financing becomes available for the higher price ranges.”

Jumbo mortgages accounted for just 15 percent of all home purchases, compared to roughly 40 percent during the housing boom.

Meanwhile, adjustable-rate mortgages were used to finance only 4.1 percent of last month’s home sales; between 2000 and 2005, nearly half of Southland buyers chose ARMs.

FHA loans were used by 38.1 percent of buyers, the same as in October, and up from 34.5 percent a year ago.

Foreclosure resales made up only 39.1 percent of all Southland resales, the lowest total since May 2008; it was as high as 56.7 percent last February.

Source: thetruthaboutmortgage.com

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House Party is a one-hour online experience where the New Story team and community will tackle homelessness by celebrating the gift of home and building them for others — a lot of them. In one night, we’ll come together and fund an entire community of homes in Nacajuca, Mexico. Talk about a happy ending to 2020 we could all use.

This may be the only party where there is no commute, no cleanup, and no dress code — the night is what we make it. And we plan to make it the most meaningful hour your family can spend on a screen this year.

So if Zoom calls and Schitt’s Creek are no longer doing it for you and you’re free the evening of December 6th, RSVP to House Party here (when we get closer to the date you’ll receive an email with a link to stream House Party from the comfort of your home.) 

OUR GOAL
Our goal is to raise $1M so we can complete a community of 100 homes for families who need them most.

One hundred families in Nacajuca, Mexico, have no place to call home. In the middle of a pandemic, they’re left to their unstable self-made shelter that’s prone to flooding six months of the year.

We can’t stand that. And we know you can’t either.

House Party is our chance to move towards impact by providing a rapid response to a dire situation. Homes have never mattered more. Let’s get to work. 

ABOUT NEW STORY
We’re a team working to end homelessness. It’s a big goal, but we’ve seen it attract bold people — like you! Sure, building the world’s first community of 3D printed homes is cool. So is building our own data-collection tool to track impact. But they’re just means to fulfill our big dream.Our favorite part of it all?
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The 11,000+ lives impacted. Thanks to our donors, we’ve helped build over 2,300 homes across 25 communities. And we’re just getting started.

Source: geekestateblog.com