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Apache is functioning normally

Holiday shopping season is upon us, and the pressure is on, or at least it feels that way for some parents. A new NerdWallet survey, conducted by The Harris Poll, finds that 48% of parents with children under 18 feel pressure to spend more money on holiday gifts than they’re comfortable spending.

According to NerdWallet’s annual holiday spending report, Americans are spending quite a bit more on holiday travel and gift shopping than last year. And parents plan to spend more than those who are not parents of kids under 18. Parents of minor children who plan to purchase gifts this holiday season say they’ll spend $1,070, on average, compared to $860, on average, among those who are not parents of minors. And parents of kids under 18 who plan to spend on flights or hotels this holiday season will spend a whopping $2,610, on average, for these travel expenses, compared to those who are not parents of minors who plan to spend $2,131, on average.

Having kids can be expensive any time of year, but the holidays may up the ante. Here are five tips for parents trying to keep costs in check this holiday season.

1. Create a budget with stability in mind

According to the survey, 13% of minor parents who plan to buy gifts this year will likely need to use some of their emergency savings to pay for them, and 12% will prioritize gift buying over paying some of their regular bills this holiday season. Also, 38% of parents of minor children who plan to buy gifts this year say they will probably go into more debt than usual to make these purchases.

There can be a lot of pressure to make the holidays magical for your kids. However, if you do so at the expense of stability — money set aside for emergencies, bills paid on time, a manageable debt load — it can set you up for future money stress. This doesn’t only impact parents: kids may sense the unease or anxiety that financial precarity is causing the family. Instead, aim to make a gift shopping budget that’s realistic for you and provides consistency for your household, instead of financial highs and lows.

The survey found that 15% of parents of minor kids who plan to buy gifts this year will purchase some gifts secondhand.

Buying previously loved gifts for children is a savvy way to shop, particularly since kids often outgrow things fast — clothing and toys alike. Though some parents may be uneasy about shopping secondhand, young children very likely won’t know the difference between a new toy or a thrift store treasure. Check out your local secondhand shops, Buy Nothing groups and Facebook Marketplace, or swap like-new toys with friends who have kids around the same age as yours.

3. Declutter your holiday gift list

Nearly 3 in 10 parents of children under 18 who plan to buy holiday gifts this year (29%) say they’ll purchase gifts for fewer people than they did in years past.

Consider paring down the number of people you get gifts for. Maybe you want to buy presents just for the kids in your family or friend group this year, or perhaps you can organize a Secret Santa swap with the adults. Talk to your loved ones about possibly not exchanging gifts — or exchanging less expensive gifts — to free up funds to cover your immediate family’s gift and travel expenses this holiday season.

4. Don’t forget caregivers in your budget

This is less of a money-saving strategy and more of a planning one, but if you plan to give gifts to teachers or caregivers, make sure to factor that into your holiday spending budget. That gives you an opportunity to snap up deals when they arise and also gives you a clearer picture of how much you need to set aside for gift spending.

5. Travel off season

Nearly 2 in 5 parents of minor children who plan to pay for flights or hotels this holiday season (38%) say they’ll keep their usual holiday travel plans this year, regardless of expense. But if you can be flexible, you may be able to save money by avoiding the busiest travel days around the holidays.

This isn’t possible for everyone, as work and school schedules may mean your only travel window is limited to the busiest — and priciest — of the year. But if you can spend quality time with loved ones during a less peak travel time, you’ll likely enter the new year with more of a financial cushion.

Methodology​

This survey was conducted online within the United States by The Harris Poll on behalf of NerdWallet from September 10-12, 2024 among 2,079 U.S. adults ages 18 and older, among whom 524 are parents of kids under 18, of which 460 plan to purchase gifts this holiday season and 328 plan to spend money on flights/hotels this holiday season. The sampling precision of Harris online polls is measured by using a Bayesian credible interval. For this study, the sample data is accurate to within +/- 2.5 percentage points using a 95% confidence level. This credible interval will be wider among subsets of the surveyed population of interest. For complete survey methodology, including weighting variables and subgroup sample sizes, please contact [email protected].

Disclaimer

NerdWallet disclaims, expressly and impliedly, all warranties of any kind, including those of merchantability and fitness for a particular purpose or whether the article’s information is accurate, reliable or free of errors. Use or reliance on this information is at your own risk, and its completeness and accuracy are not guaranteed. The contents in this article should not be relied upon or associated with the future performance of NerdWallet or any of its affiliates or subsidiaries. Statements that are not historical facts are forward-looking statements that involve risks and uncertainties as indicated by words such as “believes,” “expects,” “estimates,” “may,” “will,” “should” or “anticipates” or similar expressions. These forward-looking statements may materially differ from NerdWallet’s presentation of information to analysts and its actual operational and financial results.

Source: nerdwallet.com

Apache is functioning normally

Recently, Zillow began airing a commercial called “Homeowner Mates.” It depicts three women moving into a home together.

It shows their individual “BuyAbility” followed by “Your BuyAbility,” the latter of which combines the purchasing power of all three.

The three women have individual buying power of $117,000, $124,000, and $131,000, but a combined $372,000 when pooled together.

This apparently allows them to go in on that near-$400,000 home purchase, despite not being anywhere close on their own.

While having co-borrowers does indeed boost your purchasing power, the question is it a good idea when it’s a friend (or two)?

It’s Hard Enough to Buy a Home on Your Own

When I first saw this commercial, I was pretty taken aback. It felt somewhat irresponsible, and a lot related to the current housing market being unaffordable for most.

For me, that doesn’t mean forcing your way into a purchase. It might mean holding off on your homeownership goal, saving up more money, perhaps hoping for a raise, and generally getting all your ducks in a row.

Oh, and maybe lowering your maximum purchase price to something you can actually afford!

Instead, Zillow presents a solution to just find a couple close friends and buy the house today.

It pretty much ignores what happens after the dust settles and the moving boxes are unpacked.

It doesn’t get into what happens when one of the roommates wants to move out. It also seemingly glosses over who gets what room, or what happens if one of the co-owners loses their job.

Simply put, it presents a very simplistic view of homeownership, without giving us the whole picture, which could get pretty dark in a hurry.

Ultimately, it’s hard enough to be a homeowner without having to discuss all the what ifs with two other people.

It’s a big decision to buy vs. rent, and exponentially more complicated once you multiply that by three individuals.

Homes Are Too Expensive for Many Americans Right Now

Making it all much worse is this commercial only exists because homeownership has fallen financially out of reach for many Americans.

Clearly the people behind the ad got together and said what are the main pain points for prospective home buyers right now?

And they likely all agreed that it’s too expensive for most to buy a home thanks to a combination of high home prices and elevated mortgage rates.

But instead of recognizing this, they found a creative workaround to tackle the affordability piece, regardless of what the outcome might be.

Ironically, the commercial says, “That’s when buying a home got real.” When the three women pooled their incomes together to make it work.

Sadly, they probably don’t know how real is will become after living together and paying the mortgage for a year.

It’s hard enough to rent with a friend without facing all sorts of pitfalls. To buy a home with a friend and do so successfully sounds like the feat of all feats.

In other words, it probably won’t go well for most. And how do you even work out who gets what if someone wants to move out?

This all sounds so complex, yet is juxtaposed by the three women eating pizza and joking about one of them breaking the other’s vase.

My guess is that would be an afterthought once real problems reared their ugly head.

Maybe It’s Just Not the Right Time to Buy a Home…

As I wrote in my other piece, Marriage and Mortgage May Not Mix, it’s perfectly fine to rent initially, especially if your wedding date and the housing market conditions don’t exactly line up.

The same is true here. There doesn’t need to be a rush to buy, nor do you need to force the issue if it doesn’t feel quite right. Or simply doesn’t pencil.

While I am a huge advocate of homeownership and believe it brings with it a lot of positives, it’s not for everyone. Nor is it always the right time.

I’d personally never buy real estate with friends, and probably not even with family when it came down to it.

Take the time to really think it through if you’re considering this. What will it look like to own a home with your friend(s) a year from now, three years from now, or five? Will you sell at some point or rent it out?

You’re going to need a serious plan if you expect to pull something like this off. Even those who purchased a home recently on their own are feeling the heat.

Now imagine several people dealing with conflicting emotions at the same time. It’s not for the faint of heart.

Before creating this site, I worked as an account executive for a wholesale mortgage lender in Los Angeles. My hands-on experience in the early 2000s inspired me to begin writing about mortgages 18 years ago to help prospective (and existing) home buyers better navigate the home loan process. Follow me on Twitter for hot takes.
Latest posts by Colin Robertson (see all)

Source: thetruthaboutmortgage.com

Apache is functioning normally

In a world that constantly pushes us toward more — more things, more choices, more consumption — the concept of minimalism has emerged as a breath of fresh air. However, as we delve deeper into the philosophy of living with less, a new movement is gaining traction: underconsumption core. Whether you’re renting an apartment in Des Moines, IA, settling into a rental home in Boston, or buying a home in Savannah, GA, this way of life offers a more sustainable, mindful way to live.

Understanding underconsumption core

Underconsumption core takes minimalism a step further by emphasizing the value of what we don’t consume rather than just focusing on what we own. “Underconsumption core is the latest social media movement that takes a spin on the minimalist and simplicity trends of recent years, highlighting the ‘use it up, wear it out, make do or do without’ teachings from older generations,” explains Amanda with Useful Roots.

“It’s all about finding joy in owning, maintaining, and buying fewer things or even acquiring material items via thrifting and repurposed goods. Instead of purchasing multiples of the latest item, you’re pairing down, making do with just one, using what you have, and perhaps not purchasing at all. It’s an approach to engaging in the economy that can be better for the wallet and more environmentally friendly.”

The benefits of underconsumption core

Adopting the underconsumption core philosophy can lead to numerous benefits:

  • Less clutter, more comfort: When you intentionally reduce unnecessary consumption, your living space becomes more comfortable and serene. Renters, especially, benefit from this as it makes small spaces feel larger and more functional.
  • Financial savings: Consuming less can lead to significant savings. Instead of spending money on trendy decor or impulsive buys, you can invest in quality pieces that last or save up for bigger goals — like homeownership or investment property.
  • Eco-friendly living: Consuming less means generating less waste, which benefits the environment. “At Composty, we believe that living minimally begins with making intentional choices about what we bring into our homes. By embracing compostable, reusable cleaning tools, you can significantly reduce waste while still maintaining a clean environment. We encourage making the most of what you already own, avoiding impulse purchases, and focusing on products that are not only functional but also sustainable, helping to reduce consumption in the long term. Composty’s CEO Matt Guest says, “Our sponges borrow natural materials from the planet and, after use, give them back to nature to help it flourish and grow.”

Ways to embrace ‘underconsumption core’

Underconsumption core can significantly improve your living experience, and it’s surprisingly easy to implement small, intentional changes that create lasting positive impacts.

Shift your mindset

Shifting your mindset is key to embracing underconsumption core. It’s about moving away from the constant pursuit of more and reframing how you view consumption.

“At fulFILLed Lifestyle Co., we believe that sustainable living starts with a shift in mindset. In today’s world, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the pressure to buy more, especially as we’re constantly influenced to consume more than we truly need,” explains Paige Garrity, co-founder of fulFILLed Lifestyle Co. She continues: “But what if less is actually more; underconsumption, the idea of being intentional with what we bring into our lives, allows us to focus on quality over quantity.

By reducing the excess, we make room for what truly matters — whether it’s the products we choose or the relationships we nurture. Sustainability, after all, is a way of life, and at fulFILLed Lifestyle Co., we’re here to support consumers in making choices that help them create a toxin-free, sustainable, and fulFILLing life.”

Prioritize essentials

Whether you’re furnishing an apartment or conducting your weekly grocery shop, start by focusing on the essentials. What do you really need? Avoid the temptation to buy and fill every corner with “stuff”.

“By embracing underconsumption core, we inherently buy less and utilize what we have more efficiently.  Furthermore, replacing disposable everyday items with reusable alternatives, like shopping bags, water bottles, and sustainable kitchen essentials, significantly reduces waste and conserves resources,” explains Amanda Runkle, founder of Me Mother Earth.

“These small changes not only support a greener lifestyle but also save money in the long run, as reusable products are designed to last for years. By making these conscious choices, we all have the ability to contribute to a more sustainable future and reduce our environmental impact.”

Embrace sustainability

Elizabeth Casas with Simple Living on Repeat, echoes this sentiment, emphasizing the importance of intentionality and sustainability. “With the cost of living and food prices increasing, underconsumption is a new trend that people must try to save money. Avoid buying products until you finish the ones you already have and use, such as skincare or cleaning products. Shop secondhand first. Before a new purchase, try to see if you can buy gently used items like clothing, furniture, books, and toys. Buying second-hand first not only helps you save money but also positively impacts the environment, giving items a second chance and reducing waste.”

“Well-storied homes often belong to well-storied discount shoppers, dumpster divers, thrift store thrifters, and roadside wranglers with well-storied lives,” shares Paige Grose with Paige Grose Design. 

She adds, “I love expensive furniture, luxurious linens, fine china, and hand-woven rugs, but many of my most treasured and unique pieces that give our house style were found, thrifted, or haggled for and not purchased from a design center showroom. Thrift stores, flea markets, yard sales in upscale and retirement communities, trolling the streets on trash night (some neighborhoods encourage this and post items in real-time on social media), vintage and antique shops, as well as your family’s basements and attics are perfect places to start an underconsumption journey to create a well-storied home.”

Create and embrace multi-functional spaces

For renters in apartments, especially those with limited square footage, multi-functional spaces are key. Consider furniture that serves dual purposes — like a sofa that doubles as a guest bed or storage solutions that blend into your decor. “If I were going to say one thing a renter could do to create a more functional space, I would say not to underestimate the value of leg risers,” shares Mary Colmar with Salad Bowl Dress.

“You can make a kitchen island with two or more risers under a kitchen table. They’re helpful in a bedroom for your dresser or a bed to add storage space underneath. I have even used them in the living room under a couch to add the illusion of space.” Hacks like these can create a more functional and stylish space, without breaking the budget or spending impulsively.

Value quality over quantity

Quality pieces stand the test of time, saving you from frequent replacements and contributing to a more sustainable lifestyle. “I quit Amazon Prime to minimize unnecessary impulse buys. Instead, I put items in my shopping cart and wait till I hit the $35 minimum spend for free shipping without Prime,” shares Julie George with The Brown Girl Podcast.

“Sometimes during this “waiting time,” I find I actually didn’t need or want this or that, and then remove it from my cart. I also started investing in higher quality items that I can keep for a lifetime instead of low-quality/fast fashion junk that ends up needing constant replacement.”

Create a consumption budget

Just as you would budget your finances, consider creating a consumption budget. “Adopt a more mindful approach to spending and prioritize experiences over possessions, this will help you to focus on what truly brings value to your life,” recommends Emma with Bee Money Savvy. “Being more mindful when it comes to money can also help to reduce your living costs, allowing you to save towards long-term goals such as a first home or retirement.”

Reflect, remember, and adjust

“People have this strong belief that somehow happiness comes through spending on things and experiences. That if we only owned a nicer item, and splurged on a vacation, that we would be happier,” explains CEO and content creator, Save My Cents, Inc.

“Research has proved this to be the opposite. After meeting a certain minimum level of lifestyle, then additional levels of happiness gained from spending on nice-to-have items are diminishing — meaning the more money you spend, you don’t necessarily become equally happier. Knowing this is powerful because it means that you have to learn to derive joy from your current life. Lean into the strength of the good relationships and friendships you have. Take comfort and have gratitude for when you do have abundance — such as a decently paying job, payable skills, and good mental and physical health.”

Less, truly is more

Underconsumption core is more than just a trend; it’s a transformative lifestyle choice that encourages us to prioritize what truly matters. “When I coach Americans to spend less, I coach them to have gratitude. When you see everything that you “get to” enjoy, then you don’t feel the need to buy more to be happy,” Save My Cents continues.

“By embracing this philosophy, we can redefine minimalism and cultivate a life filled with purpose, sustainability, and fulfillment.” Underconsumption core offers a refreshing perspective that invites us to slow down, evaluate our choices, and make room for what genuinely enriches our lives.

Source: rent.com

Apache is functioning normally

Do you want to learn how to become a photographer? Many photographers are making $50,000 and over each year. Today, I have a great interview to share with you. I interviewed my friend Sydney Hampton on how to become a photographer. I actually met her when I hired her to take my maternity photos, and…

Do you want to learn how to become a photographer?

Many photographers are making $50,000 and over each year.

Today, I have a great interview to share with you. I interviewed my friend Sydney Hampton on how to become a photographer. I actually met her when I hired her to take my maternity photos, and later on my newborn photos. We stayed in touch, and I recently asked her if I could interview her for this article.

Sydney is a photographer who focuses on family, couples, maternity, branding, and newborn photography.

The demand for this kind of photography is high, and many people are looking for quality photographers for these types of photos.

Are you wondering questions such as:

  • How much money can a professional photographer earn?
  • Is there room for new photographers?
  • What equipment does someone need to become a photographer?
  • How many hours does it take each week to run a photography business?

If so, these questions, plus more, will be answered in today’s interview about how to become a photographer.

Today’s interview will help you get started and perhaps even introduce you to a new way to work at home.

Recommended reading:

Tell me your story. Who are you and what do you do?

My name is Sydney Hampton and I am a wife, mom, and photographer. I am the face behind Sydney Hampton Photography. I love being a photographer and helping others figure out their path in the world of photography.

I am also the creator of The Mom Photographers, a group that helps moms who are photographers get more organized, manage their time better, and grow their businesses so that they can grow their business while balancing life as a Mom. The Mom Photographers is a community, educational hub, blog site, and we have a podcast on Spotify that features moms who are photographers and business owners.

What kind of photography do you do?

I do several types of photography, but currently I focus on family, couples, maternity, and newborn. Maternity and newborn have my heart, but I have also done many other types of photography including weddings, senior portraits, and business and branding photography.

This year, I am really focusing on family, maternity, couples beach photography and in-studio sessions such as newborn and business branding. As a photographer in a prime vacation destination, I tend to do a lot of beach mini sessions and have found that men and children are usually not up for full sessions. This has helped to truly launch my business to another level where I am able to do mini sessions weekly.

Here’s a picture of me photographing on the beach.

Why did you decide to become a photographer? How did you get started?

I have always loved photography and really started getting into it in about 2006 when I was in high school. I grew up with photography all around me; my Dad was a professional sports photographer. So from a young age, I learned how to shoot in manual and learned important key things like composition.

Like many though, I really thought of myself as an amateur, especially being around family members like my dad and his brother, my uncle, who also is a photographer but an amazing wildlife photographer. After the first 2 years of college, I put my camera down for a few years. When my father passed, I inherited his camera and really picked it back up as a way to connect with him. 

To be honest, it was my husband who gave me the confidence to become a professional photographer. After watching me for 2 years continuously take photos of landscapes, our van, and dog on road trips and seeing the passion I had for it, he convinced me to take a leap and go for it.

I truly decided to become a photographer as a way to do what I love, and maybe make some money. With my husband’s support, we were prepared for it to make nothing, so the risks were low. 

In the beginning, I attribute all of my success to the military community! As a military spouse, I was able to reach out to the military spouse community and have clients that I still service 5-plus years later and in different states! The support from that community has been ongoing. I was able to grow a following on Instagram and Facebook, which really helped create my business as a Florida Keys vacation photographer. Having followers and clients who shared my work regularly, allowed me to establish credibility and book new clients.

What do you like about having a photography business?

My favorite part about having a photography business is that I get to be with home with my kids all day every day. Having the freedom to create my schedule, be with my family, and to be creative is beyond any financial benefit. While this year has been my busiest and most financially beneficial year thus far, I have made sure to dedicate time to doing things with my kids where I can set my phone aside. I have found that the biggest blessing has been to step away from work and not be worried.

I love how diverse photography as a career is. For example, it can be very simple like just stock photography on the side, or just weddings or you can open a studio and become a portrait and newborn photographer… Or you can do it all! You can photograph events such as weddings for thousands per wedding, do family sessions, maternity, business advertising, even sell products like landscapes, start blogs and podcasts, create courses, write books, and more. Just like with many other opportunities, the sky is the limit – it’s a perfect career for someone creative and driven, yet also great as a side gig.

I have been fortunate to see many sides of photography from just word of mouth within a small community with a few clients to over 400 clients so far this year alone. I have loved that I get to meet new people with each shoot and that I am able to connect with people from all walks of life.

I believe in growing and learning from others, which is part of why I created a community called The Mom Photographers where I host a podcast/blog and talk with other moms who are photographers about all the topics we face. Things like how do you edit with kids, what does workflow look like when you have kids, and ways to get started. Through The Mom Photographers, I will also be releasing educational videos, courses, presets, and doing hands-on/virtual workshops.

How much money can a professional photographer earn?

Again, it’s all flexible. You can do it very part-time and only make a few thousand a year or you can make a million. It truly depends on a few key principles such as the amount of time and effort you want to put in, the quality/ consistency of your work, and the type of photography you choose to do.

On average, most photographers can expect to make about $50,000 in a small town or non-tourist destination.

In a tourist destination or bigger city it is easy for a photographer to make $75,000+ with the right tools in their pocket and a quality consistent product. Now, I’m not saying anyone who just buys a camera can walk out and expect to make $75,000. It takes professionalism, some business knowledge and having a quality product that people want to buy. It also takes time, but working with a mentor or shadowing a photographer are ways to speed that up. I have also found that those who do start with a mentor or who work under an established photographer their first year tend to make more money and be more successful in the end.

I am actually mentoring 5 photographers currently and just hosted a styled shoot with 12 other photographers. To me, connecting with others is key! So to be able to host a shoot that I create and make money is a blessing.

What equipment does someone need to become a photographer? Do they need to spend a lot of money to get started? 

Someone looking to get started will need a camera, a lens, computer and a few programs to help make them successful such as Lightroom. To get started as a family, couples or wedding photographer I definitely suggest having a professional level camera/lens set up.

I always suggest shadowing and making sure it’s what you definitely want to do before you invest in equipment. Knowing that this is the right path for you is step one.

I actually have a free course called: Is Photography Right for you? My goal with this course was to lay out a realistic expectation of what all is involved to start and be successful in the photography industry.

Below is some more in-depth information on what equipment you need to become a photographer:

  • Camera – I highly suggest starting with a Professional camera. I suggest going with a mirrorless camera. I am a Nikon user, and I suggest getting the best camera you can within your budget. My top suggestion is the Nikon Z 6II which you can find lightly used for around $1300 or Nikon z6III $2500 which was just released in summer 2024. It’s good in low light, sharp, and easy to use. If it is out of your price range, then go for the Z50 would be my next suggestion (which is $1,000 brand new or used around $750). I currently have 2 cameras, a Nikon Z 6II and a Z8 which is my new camera, I went with the Z8 over the flagship Z9 for 3 reasons.
    • 1.  It’s smaller and lighter
    • 2.  It uses the same batteries as the Z 6II.  
    • 3. It was the same performance but less expensive.   
  • Lens – I definitely recommend when you buy your camera to not purchase it with a kit lens. Buy a lens appropriate for the work you would like to do. Example: family, maternity, or portraits – go for a 35mm or 50mm lens with an f-stop of 1.8 or lower, then later add lenses such as 85mm, 50mm, 35mm, and 70-200mm. I like to shoot with a lower f-stop because I like the subject isolation and blurred background. For Family, Maternity and newborn I definitely suggest having a 50mm and a 35 mm. My favorite lens is my 50mm 1.2 this lens gives dreamy background and crisp images. The kit lens often does not hold value for resale well, and it’s better to just buy the camera body without it. Nikon just released a 35mm 1.4 lens which is $599.
  • Computer – I use an Apple MacBook to do all of my editing. I edit on Lightroom primarily and also on Photoshop. I also use several other programs to assist me in saving time that I go more in-depth with in a few of my Mom Photographer blog posts (Aftershoot, Portraiture, Imagen AI, and Topaz). For newborns and Portraits, I love Portraiture!
  • Website- You can actually start your website for free through Pixieset. I have been using them for 6 years and they are amazing, I love how everything is integrated. It is not only the host site I use now but how I book clients and deliver galleries. Pixieset also has a print store, and is always looking for ways to improve. Once you do get more involved and find yourself needing to upgrade the prices are still reasonable at $19/month and up. You will still need to get your own url from a site like GoDaddy and you can connect that to your Pixieset.

With those things, anyone can start. The list grows with what type of photography, so I suggest starting simple in one type of photography, like aiming for just family or just branding.

Note about the camera purchase: You can start with an older camera or with what ever camera you have. The goal with starting with an older camera would be to learn to shoot in manual, as well as to learn composition. Just definitely plan to set aside money to upgrade to a professional camera as soon as you can so that you can provide clients with a quality product. Also depending on the photography route you choose you could also start with a camera like a good drone! Think landscape, real estate, marketing, weddings or a way to earn income while saving up for your professional camera. Lots of professional photographers love to work with people who can provide drone video and photo images.

Here’s a picture of one of my recent maternity pieces (underwater).

What is your typical work schedule? How many hours does it take each week to run a photography business?

My typical work week varies depending on the time of year. I have weeks where I maybe work 5 hours and other weeks where I work 30 plus. But in general, even at my busiest, I still have freedom to do things with my family that matter, like church 2x a week, dance class 2 days, or enjoy time with my family and our little farm.

Each morning, I spend the first 15 minutes checking all emails, scheduling social media posts, and responding to DMs. I often also find that my best editing hours are between 10 p.m. and 3 a.m. because I have a two- and four-year-old! Batching content is also a great way that I save some time.

Is there room for new photographers?

Many may say no, but I say Yes!

Lots of room, and there will be room for anyone new. In any industry, there is always someone who is burned out, not driven, not open to changes in the industry. There is always a new style, but even more so, there is simply just a huge range of customers and what they are looking for.

There’s someone who wants a $100 shoot or a $10,000 shoot. So it’s important to know where you want to fall in there and to aim for how to build your business and create the quality product worth what you want your target market to be.

For new photographers, you can be a second shooter or an associate shooter for a well established photographer. This is a great way to start while still working a regular job and never have to edit anything except what you want for your own personal use. This is something most photographers, including myself, don’t know before taking the plunge to be professional.

Looking back, this is the perfect approach for someone with a job or a busy life not wanting to ruin their name doing free shoots and never gaining repeat clients. It’s also a great way to learn and cash flow everything while not taking huge risks.

Also, I am a strong believer in being a business with insurance and everything you need to be legit. You can start as a luxury photographer without having to spend 10 years to get there, but you need to be able to create a luxury product consistently, and that does take some time and guidance from others such as mentors. You will need honest feedback from someone who knows photography well.

Can you list the steps to get started with a photography business?

First make sure its something you want to do, my suggestion is shadow someone, watch Youtube videos or take a course like my free course: Is Photography right for you?

Next is get a camera, or even rent one, to learn how to shoot in manual and to build a portfolio for Instagram and your website. You should have 50-200 unique edited images that you feel, and others honestly feel, show the quality of what you would like to charge for your website. 

I have found that honest criticism is key to success, so being able to hear someone say, “No, I would not pay $350 for your work,” and why is important. All friends and family will always sing your praises, but you need to know what clients or potential clients think when they look at your website. Be open to criticism, and allow it to help you grow, don’t ever let it set you back!

What are your best tips for someone who wants to become a photographer?

Find a prominent photographer in your area to shadow, or mentor under. You can even shadow or mentor under me from anywhere in the world. I also can help you find a reputable photographer in your area. Shadowing is really a great way to start.

My biggest tip, keep learning. The industry is constantly changing, growing with it is key!

Always accept criticism and be open to seeing your work through the eyes of others even if its discouraging at first it will help you to grow in the long run and eventually you will become your harshest critic.

Figure out the style you want to portray and use a preset to create consistency in your work.

Build a website and social media following.

Shoot as much as you can, even if it’s your neighbor or kids.

I do offer a mentorship program with an in-person and a virtual mentorship option. You can find the mentorship program information by clicking here.

What are your goals for your photography business for the future?

My goals for this year, now that I have hit a 6-figure-income photography business, is to create passive income. I would also like to grow and spend more time with my family.

Knowing that our family would like to possibly add another little one in the future and that I tend to take off up to 6 months postpartum, having passive income or finding ways to keep my photography business moving while I am out has been my goal.

With this in mind I created a team this past year, started another blog and a podcast. I also created The Mom Photographers to not only achieve my goals but also to help other moms have a one-stop shop to learn, grow, vent, and connect with other moms who are photographers. The Mom Photographers is a Facebook group as well as a website, blog, podcast, community, and educational hub.

I will be releasing a few courses in the next 6 months: 

  • Is Photography Right for You?
  • How To Get Started as a Professional Photographer While Being a Mom
  • The Mom Photographers Course for Established Professionals Looking To Grow and Dedicate More Time With Their Family
  • Kids- College guide to photography as a Job: with a focus on growing wealth at a young age and avoiding debt.

I will also be going more in-depth with the podcast and YouTube, adding free educational information, weekly tips, advice from experiences myself and others have learned, business trends, and ways to grow.

My financial expectation this year is to hit $175,000 and 3-5year goal is $1 million/year. I always aim to set realistic expectations and my goals are higher. Over the last few years my income has grown each year by 50-100 percent, so for me a competitive goal keeps me motivated.

I am fortunate to have my husband, a retired military warrant officer, to be my support system and help me in all aspects. My husband is my rock who not only homeschools our kids while I do shoots but also drives me to each shoot and helps me stay on task. Without him, I would be nowhere near as successful. It is imperative for anyone’s success that they have a good support system if they have kids or a family.

We are also fortunate to have zero debt including our home – our mini modern farm, as we call it! Complete with our 4 dogs, 2 cats, 10 ducks, and 13 chickens.

Photography has very much been a financially freeing stream of income that has allowed us to live in a million-dollar paid-for home on top of my husband’s retirement from the military. It also allows our children to grow up with the unique opportunity of having both parents with them every day. I am 34 and my husband is 45, we believe in being debt free and cash flowing everything. Making Sense of Cents often talks about the many benefits of financial freedom, and how to grow wealth. When I mentor photographers I also make sure to include how important it is to not build a business on debt, and that saving for three categories is imperative- taxes, emergency fund, and equipment upgrades.

Helpful links:

Do you want to become a photographer?

Recommended reading:

Source: makingsenseofcents.com

Apache is functioning normally

The trade-in value of a truck is the amount a dealer is willing to give you to put toward the purchase of a new vehicle. Cars depreciate in value the moment you drive them off the lot, so over time, trade-in values tend to decrease as well. They are also impacted by a variety of factors, such as make and model, age, condition, and mileage.

Here’s a look at what your truck might be worth over the first five years of ownership, and the factors that impact that value.

Average Trade-In Value of a Truck After 5 Years of Ownership

The trade-in value of a truck is based on its market value, which is the amount a person is willing to pay based on the truck’s make, model, age, condition, etc. However, when saving up for a new car, it’s important to realize that what a dealer might offer for a trade-in is likely less than the market value. That’s because when the dealer eventually sells your vehicle, they will need to turn a profit. And their profit will be the difference between market value and trade-in value.

Cars, trucks, and other vehicles depreciate, meaning their market value decreases each year. Luckily for truck owners, trucks tend to depreciate more slowly than cars and SUVs.

For example, the average five-year depreciation of Toyota Tacoma, a midsize pick-up truck, is 20.4%, according to a 2024 study by iSeeCars. Average five-year depreciation for Ford F-150, a full-size pick-up truck, is 36.0%. Compare that to an average five-year depreciation rate of 38.8% for cars, 42.9% for midsize SUVs, and 49.1% for electric vehicles.

Depreciation is also an important factor to understand when leasing a vehicle, as your lease payment will cover the cost of depreciation to the lessor.

Supply chain issues, component shortgages, and increased demand for vehicles has driven up the price of new and used cars and trucks in recent years. This has had an impact on how fast vehicles depreciate. In 2024, the average five-year depreciation was 38.8%, compared to 49.1% in 2020.

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Factors That Impact Truck Value Over Time

As we mentioned above, the moment your car leaves the lot, it starts to lose value. (For that reason, savvy consumers often believe it’s better to buy a used car over a new one.) What happens to the car will have a big impact on value as well, from wear and tear to how much it’s driven and its accident history. As a result, depreciation and trade-in values will vary from vehicle to vehicle.

Age and Condition

Age and condition are two of the biggest factors that will affect your truck’s trade-in value. The older a vehicle is, the less value it tends to maintain (unless it’s a desirable vintage vehicle). The reason: It’s assumed that the older a car is, the more it will have been driven and the more wear and tear it will have experienced.

All sorts of factors big and small can go into determining condition, from dents and scratches to major repairs made after an accident. Only cars in pristine condition will fetch top market values and trade-in prices.

Mileage

How much a truck has been driven will also have an impact on trade-in value. The more you drive your truck, the more wear and tear you may be putting on the engine and other parts. As a result, trucks with lower numbers on their odometers tend to command.

Make and Model

A truck’s make and model refer to the company that makes the vehicle and the specific product, respectively. For example, Ford is a make while the F-150 is a model of truck. Some makes and models are more popular than others, which can increase trade-in value. This may be for a variety of reasons. For example, some may get better gas mileage or have roomier interiors that make them more appealing to used truck buyers.

Recommended: What Should Your Average Car Payment Be?

Trim Level

The trim level of a vehicle refers to the optional features it has. For example, higher trim levels may offer more equipment or luxury materials, such as leather seats. Automotive technology, such as back-up cameras and navigation systems, are in high demand. Higher trim levels can translate into higher trade-in values.

Accident History

Even if a car shows no outward signs of damage after an accident, vehicles that have been involved in a major accident or a natural disaster, such as a flood, will usually fetch lower trade-in values.

According to Carfax, any accident will remove $500 from the value of a car, on average, while a major accident can cost as much as $2,100 in lost value.

Local Market Demand

Where you resell your truck can have an affect on its market value. For example, if you live in an urban area, there may be less local demand for trucks than if you live in a suburban or rural location.

Geography can have other impacts on the value of your truck. For example, a truck that’s been through a number of harsh Northeast winters might be in worse condition than one from a warmer, dryer climate.

Increase Your Truck’s Trade-In Value

Bring your truck up to the best condition to increase its trade-in value. Fix whatever damage you can, such as scratches, chips in the windshield, or minor engine repairs. Have your truck cleaned and detailed before an appraisal by a dealer. A money tracker app can help you carve out room in your budget for any repairs.

It’s worth noting that your credit score will also impact the deal you get on your new car. That’s because a higher credit score gets buyers a lower interest rate on car loans.

Recommended: Does Net Worth Include Home Equity?

The Takeaway

How much a truck is worth is calculated based on many factors, including make, model, age, mileage, and condition. The trade-in value will be less than the market value. Understanding your vehicle’s potential trade-in value is an important consideration when budgeting and saving for the purchase of a new or used truck. If you think you may trade it in for a newer model in the future, research vehicles that are likely to hold their value better.

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FAQ

What is the trade-in value of a truck?

The trade-in value of a truck is how much money a dealer is willing to give you toward the purchase of a new vehicle in exchange for your old one. Because dealers want to turn a profit when they resell your vehicle, trade-in values tend to be lower than fair market values.

How is trade-in value calculated?

Your truck’s trade-in value is based on a variety of factors, including make, model, age, mileage, and condition of the vehicle. Your truck’s value will depreciate every year, until it no longer has a resale value.

How do I find the fair trade value of my car?

A number of online tools can help you find the fair trade-in value of your car. For example, Kelley Blue Book and Edmunds offer very good online tools. Enter your vehicle identification number, license plate number, or the year, make, model, and mileage of your truck to get an idea of what it may be worth.

Photo credit: iStock/freemixer

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Third-Party Brand Mentions: No brands, products, or companies mentioned are affiliated with SoFi, nor do they endorse or sponsor this article. Third-party trademarks referenced herein are property of their respective owners.

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Source: sofi.com

Apache is functioning normally

Need to dry clothes without a dryer? We’ll walk you through your options.

Whether you live in an apartment in San Jose or a Milwaukee rental, living in an apartment often means adapting to space constraints and finding creative solutions for everyday tasks, including doing laundry. While many apartments lack in-unit dryers, this doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice the freshness and comfort of well-dried clothes.

Drying clothes without a dryer can be both an energy-efficient and garment-friendly method. This comprehensive Rent. guide will walk you through a few tips on the best practices for drying clothes without a dryer in an apartment.

1. Gentle washing and spinning 

  • Optimize washing machine settings: Use the “delicate” or “gentle” wash cycle to prevent wear and tear, especially for delicate fabrics. This cycle reduces agitation and helps preserve the quality of your clothes. After washing, select a “spin only” cycle to remove excess water—this will help reduce drying time without stressing the fabric. If hand washing, gently press out the water rather than wringing to protect the fibers.

2. Shake clothes and sort effectively

  • Shake clothes out: Vigorously shake each garment after washing. This loosens the fibers and helps clothes dry quicker and with fewer wrinkles.
  • Sort by time: Group clothes by thickness and fabric type. Lighter fabrics dry faster and should be hung separately from heavier ones like jeans or towels.

Color care: Prevent color bleeding by drying similar colors together, especially for new garments.

3. Select the right spot for drying

  • Air circulation is key: Choose an area with good airflow. A room with a ceiling fan or near an open window is ideal.
  • Consider sunlight: While natural light is beneficial, direct sunlight can cause colors to fade. A balance is essential.

4. Utilize drying racks efficiently

  • Invest in quality racks: A sturdy, foldable drying rack is a worthwhile investment for apartment living.
  • Strategic placement: Don’t overcrowd the rack. Arrange items with enough space in between for air to circulate between them.

5. The art of hanging clothes

  • Hanger drying: Utilize hangers for shirts, dresses and pants. This not only saves space but also minimizes the need for ironing. To avoid small shoulder creases, use padded or wide hangers, which help distribute the weight more evenly and maintain the shape of the garment.
  • Hanging techniques: For pants, clip the waistband to the rack. For sheets and larger items, fold them over multiple bars.

6. Indoor enhancements

  • Dehumidify: In humid apartments, a dehumidifier can accelerate drying times significantly. This can be incredibly handy if you live in a tropical climate like Miami, FL.
  • Fans are your friends: Positioning a fan near your drying setup can simulate a gentle outdoor breeze.

7. Outdoor options

  • Use your balcony: If accessible, balconies are great for air drying, but always secure clothes properly. You don’t want to be the neighbor who introduces themselves to the block while chasing half-dry laundry down the street.
  • Innovate: Portable, retractable clotheslines can be a game-changer for balcony drying.

8. Iron

  • Dual-purpose ironing: Ironing clothes when slightly damp smooths out wrinkles and completes the drying process, especially for materials like cotton and linen. The key is to ensure the clothes are just slightly damp, not too wet, to avoid any risk of damaging the iron or the fabric.

9. Maintain your drying rack

  • Clean regularly: Keep drying racks clean to prevent any rust or dust transfer to your cleaned dry clothes.

How to dry clothes quicker

Speeding up the clothes drying process without a dryer involves several effective methods that maximize airflow and evaporation. Here are some key strategies to dry clothes faster without a dryer.

  • Maximize the spin cycle: Use the highest spin cycle on your washing machine that is safe for your fabrics. The faster cycle removes more moisture, reducing drying time significantly.
  • Towel roll: For particularly heavy items like jeans or sweaters, lay them flat on a dry towel and roll the towel up with the garment inside. Press gently to absorb excess water. This method is especially useful for delicate items that you can’t put through a high spin cycle.
  • Wring out excess water: For sturdy fabrics, carefully wring out extra water before hanging them to dry. Be cautious with delicate fabrics, as wringing can damage them.
  • Use air movement: Position your drying clothes near a standing or ceiling fan to increase air circulation. The airflow speeds up evaporation, reducing drying time.
  • Use dryer balls in the washing machine: Adding dryer balls to the washing machine can help separate clothes and allow more air to circulate between them during the spin cycle, thus removing more water.
  • Change the temperature: Increasing the room temperature where you’re drying clothes can help speed up the process, as warmer air can hold more moisture.

Remember, while it’s important to dry clothes quickly, it’s equally important to ensure they dry thoroughly to prevent mildew or musty smells. Always balance speed with the care needed for each type of fabric.

Benefits of drying clothes without a dryer

While it may require a bit more effort, drying clothes without a dryer has several key advantages.

  • Fabric care: Air drying is gentler on clothes. By consistently air-drying your threads, you can reduce wear and tear and preserve fabric quality.
  • Energy saving: Air drying your clothes is an environmentally friendly option that also saves on electricity bills.
  • Space efficiency: The math is simple here, hangers and foldable drying racks take up much less space than a dryer unit.

By leveraging these advantages of dryer-free clothes drying, you can live a more sustainable, less wasteful life in your apartment. Trust us, your energy bill and your clothes will thank you.

Things to keep in mind when drying clothes indoors

When drying clothes indoors without a dryer, particularly in an apartment, there are several nuances to consider to ensure your clothes dry properly and your living space remains comfortable. Here’s a detailed look at a few of these factors.

1. Optimize your space

  • Multi-functional racks: Opt for multi-level or tiered drying racks to maximize vertical space. Racks with adjustable wings are also helpful for accommodating larger items.
  • Door and shower rods: Utilize existing structures like shower rods or over-the-door hangers to create additional hanging space.

2. Strategic placement

  • Space out garments: Avoid overlapping or bunching clothes. Spreading them out allows air to circulate to each item. This drastically speeds up the drying process.
  • Heavier items at the bottom: If using a multi-tiered rack, place heavier items like jeans or towels on the lower levels, where there’s less risk of tipping.

3. Time it out

  • Schedule: Plan your laundry so that clothes have enough time to dry, especially if you need them for a specific occasion. Overnight drying can be effective for morning use.
  • Rotate: If drying space is limited, rotate clothes periodically to ensure all parts get exposed to air.

4. Minimize odors and dampness

  • Frequent air changes: Make sure the room has proper air circulation to prevent dampness and odors from settling.
  • Use of fabric fresheners: Lightly spritz clothes with a fabric freshener or a mix of water and essential oils to maintain a fresh scent during the drying process.

Lay flat to dry: Some delicate items, like sweaters or knitwear, are best dried flat to maintain their shape. Use a mesh drying rack or a clean towel for this purpose.

Drying clothes without a dryer can be a breeze

Drying clothes without a dryer in an apartment requires some creativity and careful planning. By following the steps detailed above, you’ll not only enjoy dry clothes, but you’ll also extend the life of your most worn threads while saving on your energy bill.

Air-drying your clothing is a simple yet effective method that, when done correctly, offers a ton of tangible benefits for your garments and the environment. Remember, the key lies in efficient use of space, proper heating and ventilation and a bit of patience.

Interested in learning more about streamlining your apartment life? We’re always here to help with up-to-date information on everything renters need to know to enjoy their apartments to the fullest.

Wesley Masters works on Redfin’s stellar Content Marketing team as a content writing specialist. She has been with Rent. since 2023 and her previous experiences include non-profit communications, graphic design, and content creation. Wesley lives in Atlanta, GA, and loves outdoor walks, hanging out with her loved ones, and finding new recipes to try on Pinterest. Her ideal home is a brownstone with contemporary interiors.

Source: rent.com