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The vibrant heart of North Texas, Dallas has a diverse culture, iconic landmarks and Southern hospitality, all making it a great place to live. But did you know it also features affordable suburbs?
If you’re considering moving to Dallas, you may be wondering how much rent costs in Dallas. The average monthly rent is $1,477 for a studio, $1,371 for a one-bedroom unit and $1,862 for a two-bedroom unit. Depending on your budget, these prices may not align with your renting priorities.
So, if you’re searching for a more budget-friendly area without compromising access to Dallas, you’re in the right place. In this article, we’ll explore five of the most affordable Dallas suburbs. That way, you can enjoy Dallas’ sights and amenities without the price tag.
Average rent for a one-bedroom: $1,045
Average rent for a two-bedroom: $1,450
Distance from Dallas: 14 miles
Apartments for rent in Duncanville
Claiming the first place on our list of affordable Dallas suburbs is Duncanville. On average, you’ll save about $400 on rent for a one-bedroom apartment. Nicknamed the City of Champions, this area is located approximately 14 miles southwest of Dallas, so you’re not too far from the city center.
In Duncanville, you can experience the charm of the historic downtown district, filled with quaint shops, delicious dining options and cultural events. The city also offers recreational opportunities at Armstrong Park, where you can enjoy picnicking and walking trails, making it a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
Average rent for a studio: $1,039
Average rent for a one-bedroom: $1,215
Average rent for a two-bedroom: $1,430
Distance from Dallas: 15 miles
Apartments for rent in Mesquite
The second suburb on our list is Mesquite, just 15 miles east of Dallas. The area is home to about 147,700 residents, and the average rents are much less than in Dallas. If you plan to rent a two-bedroom unit, the monthly cost is approximately $1,430.
Mesquite has plenty of awesome attractions, including the Mesquite Championship Rodeo, where you can experience the excitement of live rodeo events, making it an easy pick for our top affordable Dallas suburbs. Additionally, the city offers the Mesquite Arts Center, featuring art exhibitions, performances and cultural events throughout the year.
Average rent for a studio: $1,560
Average rent for a one-bedroom: $1,314
Average rent for a two-bedroom: $1,664
Distance from Dallas: 13 miles
Apartments for rent in Irving
For those on the hunt for budget-friendly suburban living near Dallas, Irving takes third place. In addition to more affordable prices, Irving is just 13 miles west of downtown Dallas.
You can explore the Irving Arts Center, which hosts art exhibitions, performances and events in Irving. The city is also home to the Mandalay Canal Walk, a picturesque area with winding waterways, gondola rides and a variety of dining options, offering a one-of-a-kind setting.
Average rent for a studio: $1,491
Average rent for a one-bedroom: $1,330
Average rent for a two-bedroom: $1,625
Distance from Dallas: 14 miles
Apartments for rent in Grand Prairie
Grand Prairie, which is around 14 miles to the west, offers an affordable suburban alternative. In Grand Prairie, you can check out Lynn Creek Park at Joe Pool Lake, with opportunities for boating, swimming and hiking amidst the picturesque lakeside surroundings. The city is also home to the Texas Trust CU Theatre, a popular venue for concerts, comedy shows and other live entertainment.
Average rent for a studio: $1,053
Average rent for a one-bedroom: $1,379
Average rent for a two-bedroom: $1,747
Distance from Dallas: 15 miles
Apartments for rent in Garland
Just 15 miles from downtown is Garland, the final of the affordable Dallas suburbs to make our list. Home to 242,000 residents, Garland can be a great option for renters looking for a less busy city — and affordable rental prices. While the rent for a one-bedroom unit may be slightly higher in Dallas, a two-bedroom unit costs just over $100 less in Garland.
Living in Garland, you can explore the beautiful Spring Creek Forest Preserve, which offers hiking trails, wildlife viewing and a serene escape into nature. The city also features the Granville Arts Center, a cultural hub with theaters and art galleries that host a variety of performances and exhibitions. If you’re looking to take the leap from renter to buyer, make sure to also check out the most affordable Dallas suburbs to buy a home.
In a city as vibrant and diverse as Dallas, discovering the best bang for your buck is like finding hidden treasures in a sprawling urban jungle. Navigating through the maze of neighborhoods, we’ve unearthed the gems that not only won’t break the bank but might just leave you with some extra cash for those irresistible Tex-Mex dinners.
So, as you embark on your quest for the perfect pad, rest assured that the cheapest places in Dallas aren’t just affordable – they’re the keys to unlocking a city full of opportunities and adventures. Your wallet will thank you, and so will your sense of wanderlust. Cheers to finding your piece of budget-friendly paradise in a Dallas apartment in the heart of the Lone Star State!
Affordability in our study of affordable Dallas suburbs is based on whether a suburb’s one and two-bedroom rent was less than Dallas and under 15 miles from downtown Dallas. Average rental data from Dallas rental market trends on October 26, 2023. Population data sourced from the United States Census Bureau.
Source: apartmentguide.com
Richmond is a city with a deep-rooted history, remarkable landmarks, and a unique blend of cultural, outdoor, and culinary experiences. It’s a place where history intertwines with modern-day vibrancy, offering a multitude of experiences for both residents and visitors. Richmond doesn’t just rest on its historical laurels; it continuously evolves, making it a fascinating city to explore.
From its pivotal role in American history to its thriving arts scene, Richmond is a city that proudly showcases its achievements and attractions. Whether you’re drawn by the call of the James River or the allure of its historic streets, this guide will introduce you to what makes renting an apartment in Richmond a great call.
Richmond is steeped in American Civil War history, having once served as the capital of the Confederacy. The city’s landscape is dotted with battlefields, museums, and monuments that tell the complex story of one of America’s most turbulent times. Places like the American Civil War Museum and the Richmond National Battlefield Park provide insightful perspectives into the war’s impact on the nation and the city. Richmond’s dedication to preserving its history allows visitors and residents alike to step back in time and understand the significant role the city played in shaping the country we live in today.
Designed by Thomas Jefferson, the Virginia State Capitol is a monumental symbol of American architectural and political history. Standing regally in the heart of Richmond, this iconic building not only serves as the seat of the state’s government but also as a testament to the enduring principles of democracy. Guided tours offer a glimpse into Virginia’s legislative process and the building’s remarkable design, making it a must-visit for anyone interested in the interplay between architecture and American history.
The James River is the lifeblood of Richmond, offering a natural escape amid the city’s hustle and bustle. It’s a haven for outdoorsy types, with activities ranging from whitewater rafting and kayaking to tranquil walks along the scenic riverside trails. The James River Park System provides countless opportunities for adventure and relaxation, highlighting the city’s commitment to preserving its natural beauty while fostering a strong community connection to the outdoors.
Richmond is known for its craft beer revolution, with numerous breweries, notably The Answer Brewpub and Hardywood Park Craft Brewery, offering locally brewed selections. Food festivals and farmer’s markets add to the city’s foodie appeal, making it a destination for those who love to explore flavors and foods.
Richmond’s arts scene is second to none, with a thriving community of artists, musicians and performers. The Virginia Museum of Fine Arts (VMFA) stands out as a beacon of cultural enrichment, showcasing an extensive collection that spans the globe and centuries.
Richmond’s historic architecture is a visual journey through the city’s past, from colonial times to the present day. Neighborhoods like The Fan and Church Hill boast picturesque streets lined with beautifully preserved homes, offering a glimpse into the city’s architectural evolution. This blend of historical and contemporary architecture underscores Richmond’s respect for its past while embracing modern development.
In addition to the James River Park System, Richmond hosts a ton of outdoor recreation options. The city’s parks, like Maymont and Belle Isle, provide a peaceful respite from city life, with beautiful gardens, hiking trails and wildlife exhibits.
Richmond is a city that loves to celebrate, hosting a ton of festivals and events throughout the year. From the Richmond Folk Festival to the Richmond International Film Festival, these gatherings showcase the city’s diverse talents and community spirit. Seasonal events, like the Dominion Energy Christmas Parade and the Monument Avenue 10k, bring residents together to celebrate the city’s culture and traditions.
Home to renowned institutions like Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU) and the University of Richmond, the city is a hub for education and innovation. These universities not only provide top-tier education but also contribute to the city’s culture and economy. Research initiatives, startup incubators and collaborative projects between the universities and local businesses underscore Richmond’s role as a center for innovation and growth in the Southeast.
The revitalization of Richmond’s riverfront has transformed the city’s relationship with the James River, making it a focal point for leisure and entertainment. T. Tyler Potterfield Memorial Bridge, part of the Virginia Capital Trail, offers stunning views of the river and connects several of Richmond’s most walkable districts, promoting a sense of community and accessibility.
Our experts answer readers’ home-buying questions and write unbiased product reviews (here’s how we assess mortgages). In some cases, we receive a commission from our partners; however, our opinions are our own.
Mortgage rates jumped up last week following the release of some hotter-than-expected inflation data. Because the economy is still so strong, it’s possible that the Federal Reserve could keep the federal funds rate higher for longer, which would likely keep mortgage rates elevated as well.
Currently, average 30-year mortgage rates are around 30 basis points up from January’s average, according to Zillow data.
Mortgage rates are expected to go down this year, but they likely won’t start falling until we get more data showing that inflation is continuing to slow. Once it looks clearer that inflation is coming down to the Fed’s 2% target, mortgage rates should ease.
Mortgage rates don’t directly follow the federal funds rate, but they’re often pushed up or down based on how investors expect Fed moves to impact the broader economy.
In a speech given at the National Association for Business Economics last Friday, San Francisco Fed President Mary Daly said that while the Fed has made a lot of progress in bringing inflation down, it needs “more time and data” to be sure that price growth will continue to slow.
“We will need to resist the temptation to act quickly when patience is needed and be prepared to respond agilely as the economy evolves,” Daly said.
Last week, the Consumer Price Index and the Producer Price Index, two popular measures of inflation, both came in hotter than forecasts expected. Markets took this as a sign that we may need to wait longer for the Fed to start cutting rates, and mortgage rates trended up as a result.
At the moment, investors believe the Fed might start cutting rates at its June meeting, according to the CME FedWatch Tool. But whether this happens depends on the path inflation takes over the next few months.
Mortgage type | Average rate today |
Mortgage type | Average rate today |
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This week’s average 30-year fixed mortgage rate is 6.77%, according to Freddie Mac. This is a 13-basis-point increase from the previous week.
The 30-year fixed-rate mortgage is the most common type of home loan. With this type of mortgage, you’ll pay back what you borrowed over 30 years, and your interest rate won’t change for the life of the loan.
The lengthy 30-year term allows you to spread out your payments over a long period of time, meaning you can keep your monthly payments lower and more manageable. The trade-off is that you’ll have a higher rate than you would with shorter terms or adjustable rates.
Average 15-year mortgage rates inched down to 6.12% last week, according to Freddie Mac data. This is a 22-point increase since the week before.
If you want the predictability that comes with a fixed rate but are looking to spend less on interest over the life of your loan, a 15-year fixed-rate mortgage might be a good fit for you. Because these terms are shorter and have lower rates than 30-year fixed-rate mortgages, you could potentially save tens of thousands of dollars in interest. However, you’ll have a higher monthly payment than you would with a longer term.
The Federal Reserve has increased the federal funds rate dramatically to try to slow economic growth and get inflation under control. So far, inflation has slowed significantly, but it’s still a bit above the Fed’s 2% target rate.
Mortgage rates aren’t directly impacted by changes to the federal funds rate, but they often trend up or down ahead of Fed policy moves. This is because mortgage rates change based on investor demand for mortgage-backed securities, and this demand is often impacted by how investors expect Fed hikes to affect the broader economy.
The Fed has indicated that it’s likely done hiking rates and that it could start cutting soon. This will likely allow mortgage rates to trend down later this year.
Mortgage rates increased dramatically over the last two years, but they’ve been falling in recent months, and are expected to drop further this year.
In January 2024, the Consumer Price Index rose 3.1% year-over-year. Inflation has slowed significantly since it peaked last year, which is good news for mortgage rates.
For homeowners looking to leverage their home’s value to cover a big purchase — such as a home renovation — a home equity line of credit (HELOC) may be a good option while we wait for mortgage rates to ease. Check out some of our best HELOC lenders to start your search for the right loan for you.
A HELOC is a line of credit that lets you borrow against the equity in your home. It works similarly to a credit card in that you borrow what you need rather than getting the full amount you’re borrowing in a lump sum. It also lets you tap into the money you have in your home without replacing your entire mortgage, like you’d do with a cash-out refinance.
Current HELOC rates are relatively low compared to other loan options, including credit cards and personal loans.
Source: businessinsider.com
Mortgage rates have risen recently but they could be much worse than they are today. As someone who doesn’t believe the Federal Reserve has pivoted and that the Fed enacted a COVID-19 housing policy to keep existing home sales depressed, It’s not shocking to me that rates are still this high, even though we had lower rates with a higher growth rate of inflation data.
The 10-year yield is the key for housing in 2024. In my 2024 forecast, I put the 10-year yield range between 3.21%-4.25%, with a critical line in the sand at 3.37%. If the economic data stays firm, we shouldn’t break below 3.21%, but if the labor data gets weaker, that line in the sand will be tested.
The most important data line for me, along with mortgage rates, is jobless claims data because I value labor data over inflation. The jobless claims data got better recently so it’s not a surprise to me that mortgage rates and the 10-year yield are still high.
Below is a look at the 10-year yield over the past few years.
For those who have followed my travails with the 10-year yield over the past year, you know that the 4.34% has been a critical level for me up and down in the merry-go-round world of tracking rates. If we break above this level, the Fed is playing with fire again like it did last year and the 10-year yield can shoot up to 5% again — putting 8% mortgage rates in play again. Even with a lot of hawkish Fed talk last week, we still haven’t broken above that level.
One part of my 2024 forecast has been wrong so far this year: I forecast that if the 10-year yield reached 4.25%, mortgage rates would hit 7.25%. That hasn’t happened. The 10-year yield went above this 4.25% level briefly, and the highest mortgage rates got was 7.16%. This is because the spreads are doing better this year; if the spreads were average, mortgage rates would be lower.
For the 10-year yield, breaking above 4.34% is a big deal. Also, getting below 3.80%, another critical level for the 10-year yield, will be a big deal. As discussed in a recent HousingWire Daily podcast, we would need softer economic data or a real Fed pivot for that to happen. You can see in the chart below why I suspected the bond yield wouldn’t get much lower than 3.80% after that massive move from 5%. If the economic data was getting softer, then yes, that is one thing, but that hasn’t happened yet.
Mortgage rates were lower in late 2022 and early 2023 with a higher inflation growth rate and the Fed still hiking because the bond market anticipated a Fed pivot or a recession, neither of which happened. Remember, the macro data and Fed expectations run a lot of this. This is why I believe in talking about 10-year yield channels for every year and not a single mortgage rate forecast.
For now, the economic and labor data is holding up, so we are still here with 7% rates. In this recent podcast, I discussed why I don’t believe the Fed will pivot housing here.
My favorite housing data line for 2024 has been seeing the increase in inventory year over year. I firmly believe that housing inventory can grow over time when mortgage rates increase and we see weakness in demand. The trick is keeping rates higher for longer for that to occur, because once rates fall, the inventory growth story is gone.
Here is a look at inventory last week:
New listings data is growing year over year and increasing week to week, but I wish we were seeing more significant growth. As mortgage rates rise, there is weakness in demand and homes don’t go into contract immediately. This data line can grow faster as long as people still list their homes weekly.
Weekly new listing data for the last week over the previous several years:
For some historical reference, during 2008-2011, new listings data was growing between 250,000-400,000 per week.
Every year, one-third of all homes take a price cut before selling — this is a traditional housing activity that happens every year. However, this data can move stronger in either direction when mortgage rates rise or fall aggressively.
The year-over-year price data has been stabilizing since Nov. 9, 2022. Even with 8% rates last year, the data was negative year over year, and we are still showing a decline year over year. As rates increase and the seasonal inventory increases, the year-over-year price cut data should increase versus 2023 levels as more supply enters the marketplace and purchase application data is trending negatively.
Here is the price cut percentage for the last week over the past several years
We are seeing a similar pattern in the purchase application data to last year: when rates rose in February, purchase application data declined. Last week mortgage rates rose from 6.63% to 7.16%, ending the week at 7.08%. That’s created four straight weeks of negative data, similar to last year. This means the recent existing home sales report that showed a bounce is already too old.
Since November 2023, we have had eight positive and four negative purchase application prints after making holiday adjustments. Year to date, we have had two positive prints versus four negative prints. We are seeing a carbon copy of what happened in 2023, which means it’s hard to get real sales growth even working from the lowest sales levels ever. This is why last year, I talked about how the housing market really revolves around the 10-year yield.
We have a bunch of housing reports this week, including new home sales, home price index reports and pending home sales. Pending home sales will be interesting because purchase apps have been weaker, so they should decline. If they don’t, they will be pushed into next month. Sometimes, old monthly data lags current forward-looking data by a month or two.
However, the Fed’s main inflation index, the PCE inflation report, will show that the inflation growth rate has cooled down from the pandemic’s peak but is still not good enough for them to pivot. As always, keep an eye out for Thursday’s jobless claims data. That’s the most critical data line we have today.
Source: housingwire.com
A Fannie Mae survey released Wednesday found that optimism around mortgage rates has hit a two-year high. The Home Purchase Sentiment Index increased 3.5 points in January to 70.7, its highest level since March 2022, when the Federal Reserve began its aggressive rate hike campaign.
“Mortgage rate optimism increased markedly again in January, with a survey-high percentage of consumers anticipating mortgage rate declines over the next year,” Doug Duncan, Fannie Mae’s chief economist, said.
The survey recorded an all-time of 36% of respondents expecting home loan costs to go down in the next 12 months.
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Rates on the 30-year mortgage have slipped to 6.63%, Freddie Mac data shows. That’s after it punched past 8% back in October. The slide arrives as the Fed mulls cutting interest rates in 2024 as inflation continues to decline.
A previous report showed that Fannie Mae now expects mortgage rates to dip below 6% this year, a revision of their earlier forecast.
A strong US economy has also contributed to the upbeat sentiment. According to Fannie Mae, 82% of consumers indicated in January that they are not concerned about losing their job in the next year, up from 75% last month. And indeed, the labor market has remained strong. Unemployment has been near historic lows and the US saw a blowout jobs for January report last week.
But it’s not a complete cause for celebration yet, Duncan warned. Other parts of the affordability equation are still gloomy.
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The “good time to buy” component of Fannie Mae’s survey is still lingering near historical lows, and many consumers still think home prices will stay flat or even increase. In fact, one expert who nailed the 2023 housing forecast has said home prices could jump 7% this year.
“Until we see a meaningful increase in housing supply, we expect affordability will remain a significant barrier to homeownership for many households,” Duncan said.
Source: businessinsider.com
Whether it’s a 5% increase or a 20% bump, a pay raise at work is an opportunity to take charge of your financial priorities. A small raise might not seem like much when it’s broken down into a biweekly paycheck, but over time, that difference in income could provide a boost to your lifestyle or be put toward other financial goals.
Whether you decide to pay off debt, pad your safety net, invest, give back, improve your quality of life or treat yourself, a raise is a good time to think about the direction of your financial life.
Many personal finance experts warn against “lifestyle creep,” which is when you begin to spend more as you earn more. Lifestyle creep can take the form of buying more conveniences — like ordering food in more often — or buying more expensive or higher-quality items, like sturdier hiking boots or a better brand of skin care products.
“If you get a raise and use it to buy a new car or a new home or go out every weekend, your rate of spending might surpass your new income,” says Mabel Nuñez, founder of the investing education site Girls on the Money.
Nuñez says that it’s good to reward yourself, but she advises clients to avoid buying more expensive things.
“Think about an expense that’s going to be a one-time purchase or something that’s going to make you better, like traveling somewhere new or taking a cooking class,” Nuñez says. “Don’t spend just for the sake of spending.”
Once you’ve looked at your financial situation, you might find that it’s not in your best interest to increase your spending on nonessentials. But if you’re feeling good about the status of your consumer debt and savings, then you might choose to spend more money on things that will make life more enjoyable.
For example, maybe you’ve been washing dishes by hand because you don’t have a dishwasher or yours is broken. You could put part of your raise toward a new appliance that’s going to save you a lot of time and energy. Or maybe you’ve been driving the same car for the past 20 years or living in a too-small house with your growing family. If you’ve planned for the increased costs, an upgrade that brings you increased functionality and comfort is a raise well-spent.
Liz Carroll, a financial life and wellness coach at Mindful Money Coaches, says that paying off consumer debt with an 8% annual percentage rate or higher should be a top priority, especially if you have more income that you can put toward it.
Beyond debt payoff, Carroll suggests people have a financial safety net of at least a month’s worth of expenses, with the goal of working toward three to six months’ worth. This could be done through regular recurring transfers from your paycheck to your savings account.
“Give your future self a share,” Carroll says. “I tell my clients to be mindful and pause before the quick reaction of, ‘I got a raise, now I can spend money.’ Instead, you should think, ‘What’s in alignment with my values?’”
Investing for retirement is another priority to consider, such as contributing to your 401(k) to earn any matching funds offered by your employer or putting your money in a Roth IRA. You could also consider an index fund, which allows you to invest in a wide range of stocks all at once.
“You want money in savings for an emergency, but anything above that that you don’t need in the next few years could be invested in a conservative way, like an index fund,” Nuñez says. “Learn how to invest it in a smart way, and it’ll get you to the next level of financial life.”
Beyond debt, savings and other future financial planning, Carroll says you should feel comfortable celebrating your accomplishments. Just keep in mind that you may want to put up some guardrails around the way you reward yourself so that you can maximize the financial benefits of a raise. Carroll says something that equals 5% of the total raise is a good amount to aim for if you want to treat yourself but are also paying off debt. If you don’t have debt, she says, 10% of the total raise is a good benchmark.
Another thing you may choose to do with your raise is to give back to your community. Whether you donate money to your favorite charity or surprise a loved one with a random act of kindness, it can make you feel good to share your good fortune.
More income means having more resources to achieve your goals. By creating a plan for important financial milestones — as well as for fun splurges — you’ll get the most out of your money.
This article was written by NerdWallet and was originally published by The Associated Press.
Source: nerdwallet.com
With more pet ownership happening across the country, finding the best cities for pets could help you live more comfortably. The best cities for pets provide pet-friendly apartments, as well as plenty of amenities, such as off-leash parks, hiking spots, veterinary hospitals and doggie daycares.
In our search for the best cities for pets, we analyzed the percentage of apartments in our database that were pet-friendly and allowed dogs or cats.
We also looked at the average cost of veterinarian services in large metro areas with populations above 100,000 and the number of pet-related businesses and parks per capita. Then, we ranked them accordingly.
Here are the best cities for pets in the U.S.
Just north of Miami, Davie is a town with plenty of scenic parks. Head over to Happy Tails Dog Park, the city’s pristine dog park, where your dog can socialize and run obstacle courses. The park has three different play areas and doggie water fountains.
There’s also Central Broward Park, which features 110 acres of fields and playgrounds, Vista View Park, a hilly green space to spend the day hiking and Peace Mound Park, which has an ancient burial site.
Located in Broward County, Davie is known for its colleges, universities and technical colleges. It’s home to plenty of family-friendly activities, such as hanging at the Flamingo Garden and Everglades Holiday Park.
Fast-growing city Vacaville in Northern California, just 55 miles outside of San Francisco and because it’s not in the heart of the city, it’s a lot more affordable, too.
Vacaville is a great place to get on your bike and take your dog on a run through Alamo Creek Bike Trail or Lagoon Valley Park, a green, fenced off area for off-leash dogs to run around.
Besides sprawling, recreational areas and charming parks, you can also spend the afternoon checking out some of the local wineries.
Vacaville even has its own little museum, honoring the local heritage. It’s an ideal place away from the hustle and bustle, but close enough if you ever need to access a bigger city (only 35 miles from Sacramento).
Naperville is a suburb of Chicago — it sits just 35 miles west of the Windy City and is home to paths and bridges that hug the DuPage River. Just like Vacaville, Naperville is far enough from the concrete jungle of Chicago so residents can enjoy the more scenic vibe of public art, colorful local shops, cafes and restaurants.
Grab the leash and take your dog on a stroll through Naperville Riverwalk, which has a two-mile path that opens up to the heart of the city. It’s picturesque with lots of green space, shopping and places to eat or get takeout along the way.
When it comes to outdoor activities, you really can’t find a better place than Colorado. Arvada, which is near Denver, offers a unique, small-town feel with a retro vibe. The city has a historic shopping district called Olde Town and offers plenty of parks, trails (it has 125 miles of hiking and biking!) and lakes where you can see the mountains and bald eagles.
You can hike Mesa Trail and see views of the Flatirons or check out Eldorado Canyon State Park to climb amid sandstone cliffs. Because of its close proximity to nature, low crime rate and educated workforce, Arvada is a popular place to live. It encompasses the top 20 of Colorado’s wealthiest ZIP Codes.
While summers are hot, the rest of the year in Scottsdale is relatively mild, which makes it a comfortable place to live with your pet and get outside. Just outside of Arizona’s capital Phoenix, Scottsdale is well-known for incredible views of rock formations at Camelback Mountain and Hole in the Rock, a geological cluster with big open spaces.
Scottsdale even has a number of popular pet-friendly hotels (for some cool, indoor time for those scorching summers) and is generally welcoming of pets in public places, such as its posh Scottsdale Fashion Square and local wineries.
In eastern Texas, Tyler is known for its rose gardens and even has a museum dedicated to remembering the rich history of the town’s annual Texas Rose Festival.
Tyler is the kind of place where you can visit popular attractions, such as the Tyler Azalea trail and any of their lakes, such as Lake Tyler and East Lake Tyler.
The city’s location and access to nature make it a great place for pets. The Sunrise Paw Park is a massive dog park — four acres, to be exact. The park, just northwest of Old Jackson Highway, has separate fenced off sections for small and large dogs to play and socialize.
At the base of the Rocky Mountains is Boulder, CO. The city offers the best of both worlds, with the intricate rock formations of the Flatirons just west and the convenience of Pearl Street’s downtown’s shops, cafes and restaurants.
You can take your furry best friend just about anywhere in Boulder, including hiking trails and picnics with some spectacular scenery.
A dog-friendly must-do hike is the Flatirons Vista and Doudy Draw Trail, which is a beginner-level, 3.7-mile hike that will take about three hours. It’s an incredible way to spend the day, especially in the spring.
Ann Arbor is near the Huron River and nicknamed “Tree Town” because of its abundance of green space — even their downtown is filled with trees. Known as one of the best places to live in Michigan, Ann Arbor is a welcoming place for young professionals, families and their pets.
A popular destination for dog-lovers is Swift Run Dog Park, which is an outdoor grassy area with 10 acres of freedom for Fido to get some exercise and be off-leash.
Stroll through the coffee shops and historic downtown area that’s lined with vintage clothing shops, independent bookstores and historic theaters. Ann Arbor is also home to the University of Michigan, and its creative, youthful vibe makes it feel like a typical university town.
For being such an old city, founded in 1670, Charleston is surprisingly pet-friendly, with tons to do and see with Fido, including James Island County Park. This play haven features a dog beach, four acres of grass, a cleaning station and a fenced play area for small dogs.
Besides dog parks, beaches and trails, Charleston exudes an old, historic charm. The port city has cobblestone streets, especially in the French Quarter and Battery districts.
Go for a stroll down the promenade and Waterfront Park for a relaxing view of the Charleston Harbor. There are also tons of local shopping venues, theaters, museums, cafes and gardens.
The No. 1 city for Fido is in Greeley, a city in northern Colorado, about an hour away from Denver. There’s plenty of outdoor activities to do with your pet, from spending the afternoon at Poudre River Trail or taking advantage of the green space at Rover’s Run Dog Park.
Greeley is a central hub for community events and unlike its more expensive counterparts in Denver and Boulder, it’s considered a hidden gem due to its affordability in housing.
Greeley is a thriving cultural area, known for its art, entertainment and food-driven events, such as their summer-long Friday Fest and OktoBREWfest in the fall.
Greeley also landed in the No. 35 spot in a well-being index report, which measures community social and health data across populations.
If you want to know what other cities made the list beyond the top 10, here are the top 50 best cities for pets.
Here’s what you need to know in order to find the best find a pet-friendly apartment for your needs.
Newer apartment buildings come with all sorts of amenities, beyond a pool and fitness center. Pet-friendly apartments will have on-site dog parks, washing stations and even pet daycare.
You may have heard why it’s important to get renters insurance. Consider buying it for the year if you’re ready to move to a new apartment with your pet. It could show your new landlord that you’re responsible and are covered in case your pet causes any damage to the unit.
Depending on the type of coverage and policy you choose, renters insurance may include:
Ask your former landlord to write a letter of recommendation, highlighting your dog’s behavior and the condition of your previous apartment. You may want to include other types of documentation when talking to your landlord, such as:
This topic will inevitably come up when you look for a pet-friendly apartment. Most apartment buildings will require a pet deposit, which is generally a few hundred dollars.
When you find the right place to live, be sure to take photos of your apartment before you move in. This could serve a few purposes for you, including proof that your pet didn’t ruin the unit.
You could show these photos to future landlords to state your case that your dog is well behaved. It could also help you get your security deposit back.
To determine the best cities for pets, we looked at all cities with at least 100,000 people according to the U.S. Census Bureau’s 2019 estimates and then ranked each city by the following factors:
Pet-friendliness (50%)
Veterinarian costs (20%)
Pet businesses per capita (30%)
Each of these factors was weighted differently, and the cities with the best overall score were determined to be the best cities for pets.
Source: rent.com
Small Luxury Hotels of the World (SLH) is a collective of high-end properties that meet high standards for service and style. There are more than 500 boutique hotels in 90 countries that make the grade.
SLH will not become one of the many Hilton Honors brands, but the strategic partnership between the two unlocks the door to significantly more luxury properties than are currently in the Hilton portfolio.
For now, the details of using Hilton elite status benefits and credit card perks at SLH properties are still being ironed out, but Hilton members will soon be able to earn and redeem points at the participating luxury hotels.
As Hilton Honors ramps up its partnership, World of Hyatt will end its connection with SLH. This comes on the heels of Hyatt’s new acquisition of travel club platform Mr. & Mrs. Smith, which gives World of Hyatt members plenty of opportunity to earn and redeem points at more than 1,500 luxury properties. Hilton will have an exclusive partnership with SLH.
To book these new hotel options, Hilton Honors members can use any of Hilton’s traditional reservations channels to book a stay at participating SLH hotels. This includes earning and redeeming points, which multiply when you use a Hilton Honors co-branded credit card.
Hilton Honors is also a transfer partner of AmEx Membership Rewards. No matter which credit card you use, these are some of the exciting SLH options that may participate in the Hilton Honors partnership.
Along the famous Gran Via, this hotel is close to popular shopping, theaters, nightlife, dining and tourist attractions like the Prado and Retiro Park.
Be sure to visit the one of the rooftop restaurants and bar for cocktails and tapas before heading out to a night on the town.
Want to sleep in a castle? Hilton Honors points could be your chance. The 19th century Inverlochy Castle is in the Scottish Highlands where guests can slumber like royalty.
Other activities include fishing, hiking, mountain biking, golf and even a ride on the Hogwarts Express train of Harry Potter fame.
Hugging the Adriatic Sea, this year-round hotel provides excellent views of the city’s famous Old Town (which was used for filming King’s Landing in “Game of Thrones”) and the popular island of Lokrum across the bay.
Instead of a traditional sandy beach, guests have a stone-lined deck from which they can take a dip in the water or lay back in the sun. There is a heated indoor pool and spa when the weather is not ideal for sitting by the sea.
Facing Tivoli Gardens, one of the oldest amusement parks in the world, this hotel looks like part of a fairytale. Not only is there a convenient rooftop pool and sun deck available for guests, but anyone that stays here enjoys free access to Tivoli Gardens when it is open.
Hemingways Nairobi is a solid option for visitors either before or after a safari trip because of its location near Nairobi National Park. It has its own gardens offering tranquility from the city of Nairobi, one of East Africa’s bustling downtowns.
An outdoor swimming pool, massive guest rooms and plenty of green space are all less than 30 minutes from the city-center Wilson Airport, where many safari flights depart.
Along the East Sea, this resort is similar to a Hawaiian getaway with beautiful sea views and two sparkling swimming pools.
The Vietnamese restaurant serves traditional regional recipes from around the country, and don’t miss the evening sundowner music and dance performances.
This small, family-owned resort five minutes from Ubud is surrounded by rice fields and lush foliage ideal for guests looking for a wellness vacation, especially one focused on meditation and self-improvement.
Its 40 private villas offer oversized infinity pools, and local experiences include everything from a walk through the rice paddies to Balinese dance lessons and temple offerings.
This luxury resort overlooking the Blue Ridge Mountains in the Virginia countryside boasts renovated interiors, a new spa and a Jean-Georges’ restaurant.
History buffs will appreciate its proximity to Thomas Jefferson’s Monticello.
In the Hamptons on Long Island, this boutique hotel provides respite from the bustle of New York City and puts visitors within reach of the Atlantic Ocean.
A beach buggy takes guests to the shore during the summer, but back at the property, there is a lot to do, too. This includes popcorn and s’mores by the fire pit, afternoon tea and cookies, biking around the area, golf, baking classes and wine tastings.
The accommodations are made up of rooms, suites and private cottages.
Hilton Honors members have another option for earning and redeeming points now that there is an exclusive partnership between Hilton and Small Luxury Hotels of the World. As long as you make a reservation through a Hilton channel, SLH hotels now offer Hilton Honors members access to more than 500 boutique hotels around the world.
You want a travel credit card that prioritizes what’s important to you. Here are our picks for the best travel credit cards of 2024, including those best for:
Source: nerdwallet.com
Refinancing activity rebounded for the week ending February 2 after declining the previous week, as mortgage rates stabilize in the under-7 percent level, contributing to a rise in home loans application, the Mortgage Bankers Association (MBA) said on Wednesday.
The Refinance Index jumped 12 percent from the week before February and also rose by a percent compared to one year ago, according to MBA. Meanwhile, mortgage applications jumped by nearly 4 percent in the same time span.
The average cost of a 30-year fixed rate mortgage for a loan of $766,550 ticked up slightly to 6.80 percent compared to 6.78 the previous week.
“Mortgage rates have stayed close to where they started the year, despite swings in Treasury yields because of slowing inflation offset by stronger than expected readings on the job market,” Joel Kan, MBA’s deputy chief economist, said in a statement shared with Newsweek. “Rates at these levels have not prompted much of a reaction in the refinance market, as most homeowners have mortgages with much lower rates.”
Mortgage rates peaked at about 8 percent in the fall of 2023, making the cost of a home loan the highest it had been since the turn of the century. The elevated rate environment discouraged both buyers and sellers to step into the housing market who were reluctant to incur higher monthly payments of their housing loan.
Part of the reason rates jumped so high was due to the Federal Reserve’s hiking of its funds rate to battle soaring inflation. The rise in prices is cooling giving confidence that policymakers will slash rates but a strong jobs market is creating uncertainty on how quickly those cuts will happen.
But to begin the year, there is evidence that buyers are showing interest in dipping into the housing market, according to real estate platform Redfin, as rates have fallen over the last few weeks.
Redfin’s Homebuyer Demand Index, which tracks requests for tours, went up 6 percent for the week ending January 28, the platform said. Real estate agents say, however, that that increase in interest has yet to translate to a substantial jump in sales.
MBA experts are seeing a similar bubbling up of buyer interest.
“Purchase activity has been strong to start 2024 compared to the final quarter of 2023. However, activity is still weaker than a year ago because of low housing supply,” MBA’s Kan said.
Supply of homes is a huge challenge for the housing market. Housing economists have told Newsweek in the past that the market is 4 million homes short of demand, contributing to a jump in prices.
Some economists suggest that as mortgage rates fall, the used homes market may pick-up as sellers would begin to come out of the sidelines and finally put their homes in the market.
“Once they start moving, and I suspect we’ll see more and more of those folks moving in the coming year, they’ll have to become somewhat aggressive on pricing, they’re going to have to lower their price,” Mark Zandi, chief economist at Moody’s Analytics, told Newsweek last week.
Newsweek is committed to challenging conventional wisdom and finding connections in the search for common ground.
Newsweek is committed to challenging conventional wisdom and finding connections in the search for common ground.
Source: newsweek.com
Due to a robust economy, a vibrant music scene, plenty of corporate headquarters, cutting-edge medical centers and lots of higher education institutions, Nashville is a popular place for transplants.
Nashville offers cosmopolitan sophistication paired with southern charm. A diverse city, this is a place of great community spirit, where newcomers can expect to be welcomed with open arms. Whether you’re looking for a suburban, family-forward vibe or a hip, professional singles playground, Nashville’s got it all in spades with panache and charm to boot.
Here are the 10 best neighborhoods in Nashville for you to call home.
In the summertime, the sidewalks in the quaint area labeled 12 South are full of single hipsters and young families with strollers. Bar hopping is big here, but so is playing at the playground in Sevier Park. Regardless of your preferred recreational activities, everyone eventually ends up at Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams to close out the evening.
Bellevue is booming these days, going from a sleepy suburb to a trendy hub for shopping and dining. It’s a place where recently relocated single professionals and established families with kids mingle happily. You’ll find a ton of community-based activities, festivals and markets, as well as lots of support for local businesses.
More than 60 percent of Bellevue is green space protected by the Land Trust for Tennessee and Nature Conservancy. As a result, the areas’ lucky residents enjoy beautiful spaces for hiking, canoeing, trail riding and communing with the great outdoors.
With Sylvan Park on one side and The Nations neighborhood on the other, Charlotte Pike is sitting pretty as one of Nashville’s up-and-coming places to settle in. It’s a walkable area with residential streets surrounding the main drag, where you’ll find awesome breweries, cool coffee joints and fun shopping.
The beautiful, green community of Donelson – Hermitage – Old Hickory is one of Nashville’s rising hipster meccas. The Hip Donelson Farmers Market has become a popular draw for the area, as has the “hip eats” initiative, showcasing some unique, locally-owned institutions like Homegrown Tap Room and Marketplace, McNamara’s Irish Pub and Phat Bites.
Its affordability, abundant green spaces, active city centers and quiet neighborhoods make this place an area on the rise for families and singles alike.
The neighborhood is also home to Nashville’s famous Grand Ole Opry.
Just a few blocks north of Downtown, Germantown is a great mix of family-friendly and urban chic. With award-winning restaurants and bars, it’s perfect for a night out. With the Nashville Farmers’ Market a short walk away, it’s also ideal for a day spent shopping and picnicking at the beautiful Bicentennial Capitol Mall State Park.
If you’re looking for an affluent neighborhood with upscale shopping galore, Green Hills is the place for you. Posh shops like Tiffany & Co., Louis Vuitton and Jimmy Choo inhabit the Mall at Green Hills. World-class dining is within walking distance of its luxury high-rise apartment buildings.
You’ll pay a pretty penny for all that glamour. It’s seen steadily increasing rent prices for years. But you’ll also see plenty of celebs mingling in its gorgeous bars and restaurants.
Midtown is practically a part of the Vanderbilt University campus and medical center. On any given day, the sidewalks see a diverse rush of students, visiting academics, business executives and lots of healthcare professionals.
You’ll see plenty of Vandy students letting off some steam at some of the many bars crowding the city blocks, but Midtown has its share of family-friendly side streets, as well. Because it’s so walkable to Downtown and Music Row, there’s an abundant selection of hotels and fine dining in the area for tourists to enjoy.
On the other side of Vanderbilt, you’ll find Music Row. If music is what draws you to Nashville then you may seriously want to consider moving to this beautiful neighborhood. You’ll have to look closely to spot the most historic recording studios here. Most are tucked in unassumingly between the residential homes along the tree-lined streets.
Some of the world’s most famous feet have walked the shady sidewalks of Music Row, including (but not limited to) Elvis Presley, Taylor Swift, Beyoncé, Jerry Lee Lewis, Bob Dylan … we could really go on and on.
The sidewalks in SoBro are packed with locals coming and going to work and with tourists taking in the sights and sounds of Downtown Nashville (SoBro literally begins on Broadway, Downtown’s main drag.). There are a ton of gorgeous restaurants to visit, and the Nashville Symphony at the Schermerhorn Center is just a short block or two from it all.
Sylvan Park is a tight-knit community that’s family-friendly and full of charming locally-owned shops and restaurants. Spend a sunny afternoon at Richland Park or the McCabe Golf Course, then catch dinner and an adult beverage at Chaatable or M.L. Rose.
If you’re having a tough time deciding which Nashville neighborhood is right for you, take heart. Any native Nashvillian will be more than happy to give you the rundown on our great communities. We’ll also be glad to answer any questions you might have.
(For example, “Why is there a full-scale replica of the Parthenon in Centennial Park?” The answer: It’s because Nashville’s the Athens of the South, complete with a Greek-revival-style state capitol building.)
Interested? There’s tons more neat stuff where that came from, so come for a visit to Nashville and see for yourself. We’ll keep the music live, the craft beer cold and the biscuits warm for you.
Source: rent.com