WASHINGTON, D.C. — The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) has issued new guidance urging mortgage servicers to pause foreclosures on VA-guaranteed loans through the end of 2024. This measure aims to help Veterans and their families stay in their homes beyond May 31, when the current foreclosure moratorium ends.
This targeted foreclosure moratorium will provide critical relief while mortgage servicers implement the Veterans Affairs Servicing Purchase (VASP) program. Set to launch on May 31, VASP is designed as a last-resort tool for Veterans facing severe financial hardship. Under this program, the VA will purchase modified loans from servicers and transform them into direct loans with more affordable terms for Veterans. Mortgage servicers are expected to fully implement the program by October 1, 2024.
Veterans experiencing financial difficulties are encouraged to contact their mortgage servicers to explore all available home retention options. For additional help, Veterans can reach out to the VA directly at 877-827-3702 or visit the VA Home Loans website.
“When a Veteran falls on hard times, we work with them and their loan servicers every step of the way to help prevent foreclosure,” said Josh Jacobs, Under Secretary for Benefits. “We’re calling on mortgage servicers to follow a targeted foreclosure moratorium so we can make sure that Veterans get the support they need to stay in their homes.”
VA offers several home retention options:
Forbearance Agreements: Temporarily reduces or pauses payments for short-term financial difficulties. Loan payments are still owed at the end of the forbearance period.
Repayment Plans: Arranges plans for catching up on missed payments gradually.
Loan Modifications: Adjusts loan terms to make monthly payments more manageable.
VASP: For Veterans who have exhausted all other options, VASP offers a fixed 2.5% interest rate to ensure consistent and affordable payments.
The targeted moratorium applies to all VA-guaranteed loans unless:
The property is vacant or abandoned.
The borrower does not wish to retain homeownership or avoid foreclosure.
No payments have been received for at least 210 days, and the borrower is unresponsive.
The servicer has evaluated all options but determined no viable solution exists.
This moratorium could have significant implications. By pausing foreclosures, it provides breathing room for Veterans struggling financially, allowing them time to stabilize their situation without the imminent threat of losing their homes. The introduction of VASP further enhances these efforts by offering a sustainable long-term solution for those in severe distress.
These measures aim to support Veterans through financial challenges. By working closely with mortgage servicers and providing a range of options, the VA aims to keep more Veterans in their homes, ensuring they receive the stability and support they deserve. For additional information, visit VA’s foreclosure support and prevention website.
For the latest news on everything happening in Chester County and the surrounding area, be sure to follow MyChesCo on Google News and Microsoft Start.
With its close proximity to Providence and beautiful coastal views, East Providence offers a peaceful suburban lifestyle with easy access to urban amenities. From the quaint neighborhoods to the thriving arts and culture scene, this city has something for everyone. So whether you’re searching for the perfect East Providence apartment along the waterfront or a cozy rental home in a friendly neighborhood, you’ve come to the right place.
In this Apartment Guide article, we’ll cut to the chase, breaking down the pros and cons of moving to East Providence, RI. Let’s get started and see what awaits in this hidden gem along the Rhode Island coast.
Pros of living in East Providence, RI
1. Waterfront Living
East Providence offers beautiful waterfront living along the Seekonk River, providing residents with picturesque views and access to recreational activities such as boating, fishing, and waterfront dining. The scenic East Bay Bike Path also runs through the city, offering a perfect opportunity for outdoor exercise and leisurely strolls along the water’s edge.
2. Rich History and Culture
With a rich history dating back to the 17th century, East Providence has a vibrant cultural scene, including historic sites, museums, and art galleries. Residents can explore the city’s past at the John Hunt House or immerse themselves in contemporary art at the Heartspot Art Center and Gallery. The diverse cultural heritage of the city is celebrated through various community events and festivals, providing a deep sense of connection to the area’s roots.
3. Convenient Location
Located just a short drive from Providence, East Providence offers the perfect balance of suburban tranquility and urban convenience. Residents can easily access the amenities and attractions of the capital city while enjoying the peaceful atmosphere of their own community. The proximity to major highways like I-195 and Rte 44 also makes commuting to other parts of Rhode Island and Massachusetts a breeze.
4. Neighborhood Diversity
East Providence is home to a variety of diverse neighborhoods, each with its own unique character and charm. From the historic architecture of Watchemoket to the friendly atmosphere of Kent Heights, residents have a range of options to choose from. Whether seeking a bustling urban environment or a quiet suburban retreat, there’s a neighborhood to suit every lifestyle.
5. Outdoor Recreation Opportunities
The city of East Providence offers an abundance of outdoor recreation opportunities, including numerous parks, playgrounds, and sports facilities. Residents can enjoy picnics at Pierce Field, play a round of golf at Agawam Hunt, or take a leisurely stroll through the scenic Haines Memorial State Park. The city’s commitment to green spaces and outdoor activities makes it an ideal place for nature enthusiasts and active individuals.
6. Culinary Delights
East Providence is a haven for food lovers, with a diverse culinary scene that reflects the city’s cultural diversity. From family-owned diners serving up classic comfort food to trendy eateries offering international cuisine, there’s no shortage of dining options to explore. Residents can indulge in fresh seafood at waterfront restaurants like Waterman Grille or savor authentic ethnic dishes from around the world without ever leaving the city.
7. Cost of Living
East Providence offers a relatively affordable cost of living compared to neighboring cities, making it an attractive option for those seeking a balance between quality of life and expenses. The average rent for a 2 bedroom apartment in East Providence is $2,582, much cheaper than the $5,276 average rent in nearby Boston. Housing options range from historic homes to modern apartments, providing a variety of choices to accommodate different budgets and preferences. The city’s cost-effective living arrangements allow residents to enjoy a comfortable lifestyle without breaking the bank.
Cons of living in East Providence, RI
1. Traffic Congestion
One of the drawbacks of living in East Providence is the potential for traffic congestion, especially during peak commuting hours. The city’s proximity to major highways and its connection to Providence can result in heavy traffic, leading to longer commute times and occasional frustration for residents. Navigating through congested roadways may require patience and strategic planning to avoid delays.
2. Limited Public Transportation Options
While East Providence is well-connected by major roadways, the city’s public transportation options are relatively limited compared to larger urban centers. The transit score for East Providence is 30 out of 100, indicating that most residents are dependent on cars for day to day errands. Residents who rely on public transit may find themselves with fewer convenient routes and schedules, making it challenging to commute without a personal vehicle. The lack of extensive public transportation infrastructure can pose a hurdle for those seeking alternative travel methods.
3. Weather Extremes
East Providence experiences weather extremes throughout the year, with hot and humid summers and cold, snowy winters. The fluctuating climate can be a challenge for residents who prefer milder weather conditions, requiring them to adapt to seasonal changes and prepare for inclement weather. The city gets an average annual snowfall of about 3 feet. Snow removal and heat management are essential considerations for those living in the city, adding an extra layer of responsibility during extreme weather events.
4. Limited Nightlife Options
While East Providence offers a vibrant cultural scene, the city’s nightlife options may be relatively limited compared to larger metropolitan areas. Residents seeking a bustling nightlife with a wide array of entertainment venues and late-night activities may find themselves traveling to nearby cities for a more extensive nightlife experience. The quieter evenings in East Providence may not cater to those looking for a lively social scene after dark.
5. Limited Job Opportunities
While East Providence offers a convenient location for commuting to nearby cities, the job market within the city itself may be relatively limited in certain industries. Major employers in East Providence include CORE Business Technology, New England Construction, Starkweather and Shepley Insurance Brokerage, and East Side Clinical Laboratory. Residents seeking diverse career opportunities and professional growth may find themselves exploring job prospects in neighboring areas, potentially requiring longer commutes or relocation. The city’s job market landscape may pose challenges for individuals seeking specific career paths and employment diversity.
6. Noise Pollution
East Providence’s proximity to urban centers and major roadways can result in higher levels of noise pollution, especially in densely populated areas. Residents living near busy streets or commercial districts may experience increased noise levels from traffic, construction, and other urban activities. Managing noise pollution and finding peaceful residential areas may require careful consideration and strategic housing choices for those sensitive to environmental noise.
Your credit score is one of your most valuable assets, and it’s important to take action if you notice that yours is dropping. Many credit card issuers now offer customers free credit monitoring, and there are other ways to check your credit score without paying.
Let’s dive in.
Reasons Why Your Credit Score Can Drop
There are several factors that affect your credit score. Here’s a look at some common scenarios:
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Late or Missing Payments
When it comes to determining your FICO score — a type of credit scoring model used in 90% of lending decisions in the U.S. — your payment history matters. A lot. It’s the largest factor in FICO’s credit scoring formula. Missed or late payments can cause your score to drop by as much as 180 points and could remain on your credit reports for up to seven years. Signing up for autopay is one way to help ensure your bills are paid on time.
Credit Utilization Increased
Credit utilization refers to how much of your credit you’re using, and it can indicate to potential lenders how well you manage your finances. It’s also the second-largest factor in your FICO credit score. The general rule of thumb is not to use more than 30% of the credit available to you. If your credit utilization rate is higher than that, you may see a drop in your credit score.
If you need help keeping tabs on where your money is going, consider using online tools like a money tracker. Besides monitoring spending, it can also provide insights on your finances.
Recent Application for a Mortgage, Loan, or Credit Card
Applications for new credit may only make up 10% of your FICO credit score, but that can still have an impact. That’s because lenders often pull a hard inquiry when you apply for credit, which may cause your score to fall slightly. The good news is, the dip is usually temporary.
A Credit Limit Decreased
If your credit limit decreases, that means you have less available credit. And this can cause your credit utilization rate — or debt-to-credit ratio — to increase. Why does that matter? Your credit utilization rate is one of the factors lenders consider when you apply for credit. In general, lenders consider a debt-to-credit ratio of 30% or below as “excellent.”
You Closed a Credit Card
You may want to think twice before closing a credit card, especially if it’s one you’ve had in good standing for a while. When you close a credit card, your total credit line decreases and your debt-to-credit ratio may increase. This could temporarily lower your credit score.
Inaccurate Information on Your Credit Report
Need another reason to routinely keep a close eye on your credit report? Having inaccurate information — say, defaults on loans you don’t have — could potentially hurt your credit. If you spot a credit report error, be sure to dispute it (more on that below).
Recommended: Does Checking Your Credit Score Lower Your Rating?
Major Event Such as Foreclosure or Bankruptcy
Having your home foreclosed or filing for bankruptcy are major issues that have the potential to damage your credit score for several years. For instance, Chapter 13 bankruptcy stays on your credit report for seven years, while Chapter 7 bankruptcy stays on for 10 years. Meanwhile, a foreclosure remains on your report for seven years.
Check Your Credit Report
If you’ve noticed a significant drop in your credit score, it’s worth looking over your credit report. Typically, your credit report updates every 30 to 45 days and includes key information about your credit history such as:
• Your history of on-time and delinquent payments
• How often you’ve applied for credit
• How many accounts you have open and closed
• Any accounts that are in collections
Every 12 months, you can get a free copy of your credit report from each of the three major credit reporting companies at AnnualCreditReport.com. Be sure to carefully review reports from all three companies, as there may be some differences between what’s reported with Transunion vs. Equifax vs. Experian.
Another option? Signing up for credit score monitoring, which can offer score updates and financial insights.
Dispute Credit Report Information You Believe to Be Incorrect
If you find information on your credit report that’s not accurate, you have the right to dispute it. And the good news is, doing so won’t negatively affect your credit score.
To get the ball rolling on resolving errors, you’ll need to file a formal dispute with the credit reporting company. You can contact them online or by mail or phone. The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) also offers helpful tips on how to file a dispute .
Take Actions to Build Your Credit
Is your credit score not where you want it to be? There are things you can do to help improve it.
One helpful step to take is to pay all of your bills when they’re due, as consistent, on-time payments can significantly raise your credit score over time. Automating your finances is one way to help ensure you don’t miss a due date. It’s also a good idea to focus on catching up past-due accounts so they’re current.
Another step to consider is to limit your credit utilization ratio so your credit balances aren’t too high in relation to your credit limit. You can explore setting up balance alerts that alert you when you’re nearing the recommended 30% credit utilization ratio. You may also want to consider paying your credit card bill more frequently, say, twice a month instead of once a month.
A third strategy is to pay off what you owe. Having a debt repayment plan in place can help, and there are several approaches to consider. Two common ones are the snowball method (where you pay off debts in order from the smallest balance to the largest) and the avalanche method (where you pay off accounts in order from the highest interest rate to the lowest).
What Is a Good or Bad Credit Score?
FICO credit scores run the gamut from 300 to 850, so where does a “good” credit score fall? While there’s no one magic number, most lenders consider scores between 670 and 739 “good.” If your FICO score is between 740 to 799, it’s classified as “very good”; 800 and higher is “exceptional.”
What about scores below 670? If yours falls in the 580 to 669 range, it’s considered “fair.” That means it’s below the average score of consumers, though you may not have issues getting a lender to approve you for a loan. A score of 580 or less is considered “poor,” and could signal to lenders that you’re a risky borrower.
Credit Score Tips
Since paying your bills on time factors heavily into your credit score, you should take steps toward preventing late payments. One good way to do that is to enable auto-pay on your credit cards and other loans.
You can also reduce your credit utilization by trying to minimize the outstanding balances reported to the credit bureaus. For example, if you make payments just before your statement closing date, the lower balance is reported, which reduces your credit utilization.
The Takeaway
Your credit score is invaluable. Lenders use it as they review your applications for credit, as do landlords, prospective employers, and utility providers. So it’s crucial to keep track of your credit score and take action when it falls.
If your score takes a noticeable dip, the first step is to find out why your credit score fell. This may involve carefully checking your credit reports and disputing errors with the credit reporting company. Next, it’s a good idea to take steps to improve your score, which can include paying bills on time, paying off debt, and limiting your credit utilization ratio.
Take control of your finances with SoFi. With our financial insights and credit score monitoring tools, you can view all of your accounts in one convenient dashboard. From there, you can see your various balances, spending breakdowns, and credit score. Plus you can easily set up budgets and discover valuable financial insights — all at no cost.
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FAQ
Should I be worried if my credit score dropped?
Changes in a credit score are normal. That said, if yours dropped significantly, and you don’t know why, then you should consider reviewing your credit report and disputing any inaccuracies. However, if the drop is small and expected, then there’s no reason for concern. For example, if you applied for a new credit card, you might see your credit score temporarily drop a bit.
How long does it take to recover from credit score drop?
It all depends on the size of the drop and the cause. If you have higher credit utilization, for instance, your score will likely recover when your utilization ratio drops. But if you have a record of delinquent payments or a default, it can take much longer to recover. And with major events, such as bankruptcy or foreclosure, it may take many years until your credit score fully recovers.
Why is my credit score going down when I pay my bills on time?
While your payment history is the most important factor in your credit score, it’s not the only one. If you are paying your bills on time, your credit score could still drop if your credit utilization is increasing or you have a short credit history.
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US Treasuries had a tough time digesting auction supply last week, but have been nothing short of enthusiastic since then. This isn’t to say the auction cycle was the biggest market mover in the past week. After all, there were logical reactions to economic data. Rather, we’re attempting to reconcile the underperformance in MBS at the start of the week. In addition to the ebbs and flows surrounding the auction cycle, outperformance of the long end of the yield curve also commonly causes a bit of a lag in MBS. As for today’s data, it was all about ISM Manufacturing which came in with a weaker headline and a lower “prices paid” component.
S&P Global Manufacturing PMI
51.3 vs 50.9 f’cast, 50.0 prev
ISM Manufacturing PMI
48.7 vs 49.6 f’cast, 49.2 prev
ISM Prices Paid
57.0 vs 60.0 f’cast, 60.9 prev
09:46 AM
No major reaction to PMI data. MBS up 3 ticks (.09) and 10yr down 3.8bps at 4.46.
10:06 AM
10s are now down 8bps on the day at 4.418 and MBS are up at least 6 ticks (.19)–possibly more by the time liquidity improves.
03:04 PM
MBS perfectly flat at highs, up a quarter point. 10yr near best levels, down 9.5bps at 4.403.
Download our mobile app to get alerts for MBS Commentary and streaming MBS and Treasury prices.
However, Lewis noted conflicting economic signals raise the possibility that “this could be a short-lived upward blip” for mortgage rates. The rate hike weighed on mortgage demand last week, with total mortgage application volume falling 5.7%, according to the Mortgage Bankers Association. “The uptick in rates led to a decline in mortgage applications heading into … [Read more…]
Looking for the best seasonal jobs? Seasonal jobs are a great way to make extra money without having to work full-time all year. These jobs are perfect if you’re wanting to work part of the year, if you’re looking to make a part-time income, or if you want to try something a little more adventurous….
Looking for the best seasonal jobs?
Seasonal jobs are a great way to make extra money without having to work full-time all year. These jobs are perfect if you’re wanting to work part of the year, if you’re looking to make a part-time income, or if you want to try something a little more adventurous.
Depending on what you like and what you’re good at, there are many different jobs that can help you earn a good paycheck.
Plus, I know many, many people who work seasonal jobs and make a full-time income, so the money can be great as well.
17 Best Seasonal Jobs
Below are the best seasonal jobs.
1. Camp counselor
One of the most popular seasonal jobs is being a camp counselor. This can include working at a daytime summer camp or even a week- or months-long summer camp.
This seasonal job revolves around creating a safe and enjoyable environment for campers. This involves running different activities such as games, arts and crafts sessions, leading hikes, and sometimes sharing stories around the campfire.
Typically, camp counselor positions are seasonal and tend to be during the summer months and can be either full-time or part-time.
When it comes to qualifications, a love for the outdoors, being good with kids, and having a responsible and caring demeanor are important.
While the pay can vary, camp counselors many times make around $20 an hour.
This is one of the best seasonal jobs for college students because it typically happens when you are off from school, and it may come with housing!
Recommended reading: 29 Best Jobs In Nature To Make Money
2. UPS
If you want a dependable seasonal job, UPS is a popular option.
My husband actually used to work for UPS for many years (as did his brother and many of our friends), and it is a very popular job for many reasons, such as the great health benefits.
UPS has seasonal positions such as being a seasonal driver helper.
During the holiday season, UPS ramps up its workforce, hiring over 100,000 helpers to manage the gift-giving rush. Positions such as driver helper are always needed and you can expect to earn around $20 per hour.
In terms of the work schedule, expect to work 20 to 30 hours per week. Driver helpers are only hired in October, November, and December.
Recommended reading: 15 Part Time Jobs With Health Insurance
3. Tour guide
Becoming a seasonal tour guide could be a way for you to combine work with your love for travel and adventure. It’s a job where you can share your passion with others while exploring new places.
Tour guiding is a job for anyone who loves talking to people and telling stories. You could guide visitors through a busy city, lead nature adventures, show art and history at museums, or organize trips for groups. There’s a tour guide job to match your interests and skills. To do well, you need to know a lot about the place you’re guiding in and have good communication skills.
Regarding earnings, tour guide pay varies widely. On average, hourly wages range from about $15 to $25, with specialized roles potentially earning up to $30 per hour.
4. Gift wrapper
Gift wrapping is a good winter seasonal job, especially if you are good at wrapping gifts!
Working as a gift wrapper during the holiday season is a great way to make extra money. Many stores hire seasonal gift wrappers to help shoppers. Your job would be to wrap presents quickly and nicely.
Gift wrappers usually earn between $14 and $24 an hour, which can help with your holiday budget. One of the best parts is that you don’t need any experience. Many employers will train you on the job to improve your wrapping skills.
You can check out local malls or stores for seasonal jobs. These opportunities are often advertised at larger shopping centers.
5. Raft guide
If you love the outdoors and adventure, becoming a raft guide could be an exciting and rewarding seasonal job. As a raft guide, you’ll guide customers through the river.
This is an outdoors job that typically happens during the summer and fall, so it is a seasonal job that could be a lot of fun in places like Colorado, California, Utah, Oregon, and West Virginia.
You can find seasonal raft guide jobs by contacting raft companies in popular locations to check for job postings. You can also use social media to join groups and follow pages about outdoor jobs, and networking with current and former guides can give you valuable job leads.
6. Retail sales associate
If you want a job that fits around your life and only lasts for a short time, becoming a retail sales associate might be perfect for you. Many stores hire retail associates for seasonal work. This could also be for full-time or part-time jobs.
As a retail sales associate, your job would be to provide customer service and keep the store running smoothly, such as by checking out customers at the cash register.
There are many stores that hire for seasonal cashier jobs, such as Target, Best Buy, Walmart, Home Depot, Michaels, and more.
Plus, you can typically get a discount when working at a store too! I used to work as a retail sales associate and while customer service can be hard, I also made some great friends and had a good time.
7. Landscaping worker
If you enjoy being outdoors and want to make good money during the warmer months, you can become a landscaping worker. These jobs usually come up in the spring and summer when grass, trees, and flowers grow quickly.
Taking care of lawns is a big part of the job, such as mowing grass, trimming edges, and using fertilizers or pesticides to keep lawns looking nice.
Landscaping jobs usually pay between $15 and $25 per hour, and this can vary based on where you work and how much experience you have.
8. Fireworks stand worker
Running a fireworks stand can be a great way to make extra money, especially during busy times like the Fourth of July.
When I was younger, I had many friends who had summer jobs working at fireworks stands, and while the work was hard (long days in the heat!), they did seem to like it.
Your job at the fireworks stand is important but simple. You’ll sell fireworks to customers, keep the stand looking nice, and handle transactions while keeping track of sales.
9. Ski instructor
If you love snow and want to share that love with others, becoming a ski instructor could be a great winter job for you, as ski resorts are typically open from around November through April.
One thing that many people don’t realize is that you don’t need to be an Olympic skier to become a ski instructor – this is something that you can learn how to teach. I’m not saying that it isn’t hard, though, as this is still hard work!
Ski instructors teach people how to ski and they work outside on the slopes, spending their days teaching beginners and helping more experienced skiers get better.
Your pay as a ski instructor depends on where you work and how much experience you have. New instructors might start at around $18 to $25 an hour. Certified instructors can earn more, sometimes up to $50 an hour or more.
You can look for ski instructor jobs by checking the websites of ski resorts, where they often post job openings. You can also attend outdoor job fairs, especially those focused on winter sports, to meet ski resort representatives and learn about job openings. Plus, networking with current and former ski instructors through social media, forums, and industry events can also be helpful.
10. Tax preparer
If you’re good with numbers and like helping others, being a tax preparer could be a good seasonal job for you during tax season!
Tax preparers help people complete their tax forms. Many companies need extra help from January to April, during the tax filing season.
You don’t have to go to formal school to become a tax preparer, but having the right education and training can help. Many tax preparers start by taking courses or getting certifications in tax preparation from community colleges, trade schools, or online platforms.
Sometimes, this can be remote work too. I actually have my tax return filed remotely each year and have never met my accountant in person, so I personally know that this is real!
11. Bartender
If you want to earn some extra money, seasonal bartender jobs could be perfect for you. These jobs are really popular during the summer and holidays when there are lots of parties and events happening.
Becoming a bartender usually involves a mix of hands-on experience and knowledge. While formal training like bartending courses can help, many bartenders start by working entry-level jobs like barbacks or servers. This lets them learn important skills like making drinks, handling money, and talking to customers.
12. Lifeguard
A job as a lifeguard could be your perfect pick for a summer job. This is one of the top seasonal jobs for teenagers and young adults in the summer.
Lifeguards are really important for keeping swimmers safe at pools or beaches. They watch swimmers carefully to stop accidents and help quickly if someone’s in trouble. Lifeguards are trained to save lives, helping right away and doing rescue techniques if needed. They also know how to give first aid to people who get hurt while swimming.
Lifeguard jobs can pay well, with some jobs paying around $20 per hour as employees for pools and beaches.
13. 1-800-Flowers
If you want to earn extra cash, especially during the holidays, you might want to check out job opportunities with 1-800-Flowers. This well-known company sells flowers and gift baskets.
At 1-800-Flowers, there’s a big need for extra people during busy times like Christmas, Valentine’s Day, and Mother’s Day. You can find seasonal job roles such as:
Gift assembly – Put together lovely gift baskets
Distribution – Pack and send off products
Production – Get the items ready to look nice
14. Fly-fishing guide
A fly-fishing guide can be a year-round job or seasonal, depending on how you approach it.
I know some fly-fishing guides who are guides year-round, where they live in one place (such as in Florida or the Bahamas), and some who travel for 6 months to one fly-fishing area and then spend 6 months in another area. I also know some fly-fishing guides who only guide during the summer months, such as up in Alaska (and they do a different line of work the rest of the year).
So, there are many ways to make this job work for you!
Fly-fishing guides teach people how to fly-fish, share tips on fishing tactics, help with fishing gear, and more.
15. Sports referee
A sports referee can be a seasonal job, and you can choose the sport you want to ref (typically, you’d pick the one you know best or know a lot about). This could be sports like soccer, baseball, and football.
You can find jobs by checking with local recreation centers or job listings in your area.
Referees typically make around $20 to $50 per hour.
16. Parking lot attendant
Some parking lots are open year-round, and others are open only during big events, such as for summer concerts or a sporting event.
Parking lot attendants help cars find spots, take payments, and handle issues.
17. WWOOFer (unpaid but free food and stay)
WWOOF stands for Worldwide Opportunities on Organic Farms. It connects people with organic farms all over the world.
With WWOOF, volunteers can pick a place and country to visit and work on a farm. You can stay for a few days or several months, based on what you and the farm agree on.
In exchange for food and a place to stay, you need to work 4 to 6 hours a day on the farm.
So, WWOOFers do not get paid actual cash, but I did still want to mention this in this article because I know that many people are looking for seasonal jobs with housing.
You might be asked to cut wood, pack items, feed animals, make food, plant seeds, make compost, help with the garden, and do other helpful tasks for the farmer.
Recommended reading: How To Get Paid To Travel The World
Frequently Asked Questions
Below are answers to common questions about how to find seasonal jobs.
What seasonal job pays the most?
The seasonal jobs that pay the most include working as a helper (at UPS), tour guide, raft guide, fly-fishing guide, ski instructor, and bartender. Also, any job where you can get paid in tips tends to pay high.
What are some seasonal jobs with housing?
Seasonal jobs that may include housing include working as a campground worker (such as at a national park or RV park), a camp counselor, and a WWOOFer. Also, certain seasonal gigs like fly-fishing or raft guiding may come with housing as well, such as in places where housing is hard to come by or is very expensive.
What are the best seasonal jobs for college students?
The best seasonal jobs for college students include retail sales associate, camp counselor, and parking lot attendant.
What are the best seasonal jobs in winter?
The best seasonal jobs in the winter include a driver helper for UPS, working on a Christmas tree farm, and becoming a gift wrapper.
Best Seasonal Jobs – Summary
I hope you enjoyed this article on the best seasonal jobs.
Many seasonal jobs not only pay you but also give you unique experiences. You could be a camp counselor and spend time outside with kids, or work as a ski instructor and ski every day. If you’d rather work inside, you could be a sales associate in a store or wrap gifts during the holidays. Other jobs, like tax preparer or fireworks stand operator, are available at certain times of the year and can pay well too.
As you can see, there are many different seasonal jobs that may fit what you’re looking for.
Investing in art can be a good idea, but there are a number of options and factors to take into account, such as: the type of art investment you might choose (i.e. art funds vs. individual works of art), the art market climate, your familiarity with artists and trends in the art world, and more.
Generally speaking, art is considered an alternative investment. The art market does not move in sync with traditional stock and bond markets, and therefore owning art in some capacity can provide portfolio diversification. But like any alternative asset, investing in art also comes with risks.
The art market is highly illiquid, art itself is not well regulated, collectors’ tastes are fickle — and thus what determines the value of certain works of art can be harder to predict than, say, shares of stock. So while investing in art could be a smart move, it requires careful research and a deep understanding of this asset class.
How Big Is the Art Market?
Most people are familiar with the high-priced sales of some pieces of art. Works by well-known and historically revered artists can sell for millions — as can contemporary works by artists who are increasingly popular. But despite a few big headliners, the art market is fairly small.
According to a 2023 industry report, global art sales increased by a modest 3%, to $67.8 billion in 2022. Sales were more robust in the United States in 2022, with 8% growth to $30.2 billion year over year. The U.S. is the world’s largest art market, with the U.K. and China being second and third largest.
💡 Quick Tip: Because alternative investments tend to perform differently than conventional ones, even under the same market conditions, alts may help diversity your portfolio, mitigate volatility, and provide a hedge against inflation.
Is Art a Good Investment?
Whether art is a good investment to a large degree depends partly on the work of art. For example, just as there are blue-chip stocks, there are blue-chip artworks that typically command higher prices and offer the potential for steady appreciation (although given the volatility of the art market, there are no guarantees).
But investing wisely in art also depends on the investor, and the vehicles they choose. For example, investing in individual art — similar to investing in individual stocks — requires a deep familiarity with that product and its market, as well as understanding the risks involved.
While you can invest in individual works of art, the value of any piece of art depends on its rarity, whether the artist is in demand, the historical and cultural significance of the work, as well as trends and market conditions.
However, these days investors can also choose to invest in art through art-related funds (similar to mutual funds), and fractional shares of art, which is analogous to investing in fractional shares of stock.
It’s also important for would-be investors to understand the role of collectors.
Art Collectors vs. Art Investors
The difference between art collectors and art investors is important to grasp. Most types of asset classes attract investors alone (with some exceptions, e.g. collectibles). Typically you don’t hear about people collecting stocks or mutual funds, for example.
In the case of the art market, however, collectors can play a role in art market trends as well as valuations. While investors, particularly high net-worth investors, may also influence sales, many collectors are long-time participants in the art market with years of familiarity with the ins and outs of many sectors, artists, dealers, galleries, domestic and international art fairs, and more.
Collectors may be steeped in a certain era or style (e.g. medieval religious statuary or Impressionist paintings), and committed to owning works long-term — for decades, or even generations.
By contrast, art investors may aim to acquire works that will gain value in a relatively short period (i.e. within a few years). This is where different types of art investment vehicles can come into play.
Alternative investments, now for the rest of us.
Start trading funds that include commodities, private credit, real estate, venture capital, and more.
What Makes a Good Art Investment?
Investing in art requires a certain mindset, and doing your due diligence to size up what constitutes the best opportunities for you, depending on your goals. It’s also important to understand some of the newer investment vehicles.
Individual Works
Investing in individual works requires knowledge of the artist, their current status (e.g. are they in demand or have they fallen out of favor?), the relevance or importance of a given work, and a sense of whether it’s overvalued or undervalued.
The risks of choosing individual works include the possibility of buying a fraudulent piece, the cost of owning and maintaining the work (including storage and insurance), and the uncertainty of knowing whether any given work will hold its value.
Buying individual works can also come with added charges, similar to investment fees (e.g. commissions and other costs). And given the fragility of most art, there is also the risk of physical damage or total loss.
Fractional Shares of Art
Owing to the high cost of purchasing and owning blue-chip works of art, it’s possible to buy fractional shares of art. This option is relatively new, but fractional shares of art are available on a growing number of platforms.
There are various systems for buying fractional art shares. One common way it can work: Investors purchase fractional shares of a work by a specific artist. The platform handles the maintenance and storage of the art, which is held for a period of time and then sold, ideally for a profit. If the sale is profitable, investors get a percentage of the gain, net of fees, commensurate with the percentage of the work they own.
The risk of buying fractional shares of art is that, as with any investment, there are no guarantees of a return. In addition, this is a financial strategy — fractional owners never have the pleasure of actually possessing the work.
Art Funds
Similar to traditional mutual funds and ETFs, an art fund is a type of pooled investment fund. But unlike conventional funds, art funds tend to be a long-term proposition. Art funds are structured typically as closed-end funds, but with a twist: investors typically contribute their capital over a period of three to five years, often with no returns for another specified time period (terms vary).
These funds are highly illiquid, and (in addition to the unpredictability of the art market itself) there are substantial risks to locking up your capital for what could be years, for an unspecified return upon redemption.
💡 Quick Tip: Did you know that opening a brokerage account typically doesn’t come with any setup costs? Often, the only requirement to open a brokerage account — aside from providing personal details — is making an initial deposit.
Risk Tolerance
Individual investors interested in exploring this type of alternative investment need to consider many factors, especially their stomach for risk. While all investments come with some degree of risk, the spectrum is wide when it comes to art, and there are many unknowns.
Perhaps the biggest factor is the capriciousness of the art world as a whole. For a couple of years, digital art, especially non-fungible tokens (NFTs), spiked in popularity and many people sold digital art at a profit — only to see demand plunge, taking prices along with it.
It’s a cautionary tale. Yet there is always the potential for a rebound, if digital art regains its appeal, or “antique” NFTs become a thing.
Investing in art also includes risk factors specific to owning fragile physical items, as well as the risk of total loss of capital if the investment you choose falls out of favor, or turns out to be a fake — or if a given fund manager makes a bad call.
Recommended: What Every Investor Should Know About Risk
Pros and Cons of Investing in Art
Taking all of the above into consideration, it’s important to weigh the advantages and disadvantages of investing in art.
Advantages
Art offers the potential for substantial returns.
There are many new opportunities for investing in art; would-be investors can consider art funds, fractional shares of art, and more.
Investing in art may offer portfolio diversification.
Some countries may offer tax breaks on art sales.
If you enjoy art and the art world, this type of investing can offer the potential for fun, travel, and aesthetic gratification.
Disadvantages
The art world is volatile and there is no way to know for sure what a given artist or work may be worth now or in years to come.
It’s difficult to authenticate works of art, and the risk of forgery is high.
Investing in art-related funds, stocks, or fractional shares are still relatively new types of instruments, and terms (fees, redemptions, illiquidity) may not be favorable.
Many types of physical artworks can be damaged or destroyed.
The current tax treatment of art gains in the United States is higher than long-term capital gains rates.
Pros
Cons
Potential for gains
Risk of losing money owing to art market volatility
New ways to invest in art; i.e. art funds, fractional shares
Like some alternative investments, art is not heavily regulated by the SEC
May provide portfolio diversification
Highly illiquid and opaque
Some countries offer tax breaks on art sales
Art gains subject to higher taxes than long-term capital gains
Owning art is aesthetically gratifying
Risk of damage and loss
Returns on Art Investments Over Time
Just as the art world is expanding to offer new options to investors, it’s also adopting certain investment world conventions, such as art indices. Now investors can consider the data provided by an index such as the Sotheby Mei Moses Index, which was modeled on the Case-Shiller Index for home prices.
That said, individual artworks are not securities — they are non-fungible and highly illiquid — and as such evaluating the “performance” of specific works or even certain sectors over time is difficult. Even taking into account the evolution of fractional art shares and art funds as investment vehicles, the lack of transparency around pricing (as well as regulation) can make it difficult for investors to make a satisfactory risk-reward assessment.
Unfortunately, this lack of transparency is part of the risk when investing in alternative assets.
The Takeaway
Investing in art offers some advantages, not least of which is the enjoyment of researching and purchasing individual works that fulfill a personal taste or passion. In addition, art is an alternative investment, meaning that it doesn’t move in tandem with traditional markets. As such, it can offer portfolio diversification.
But like many alternative assets, art can be highly volatile and illiquid. As a whole, although art investment opportunities have expanded into art funds and owning fractional shares of artworks, art as an investment is not transparent or well regulated. That said, for the right investor, this asset class may provide unique opportunities.
Ready to expand your portfolio’s growth potential? Alternative investments, traditionally available to high-net-worth individuals, are accessible to everyday investors on SoFi’s easy-to-use platform. Investments in commodities, real estate, venture capital, and more are now within reach. Alternative investments can be high risk, so it’s important to consider your portfolio goals and risk tolerance to determine if they’re right for you.
Invest in alts to take your portfolio beyond stocks and bonds.
FAQ
What is the best art to invest in?
The best art to invest in is art you know well and has a value you feel confident in. That might be an individual piece by a certain artist, or it might be fractional shares in well-known or even famous works. Whatever route you choose, treat it like any other investment: do the necessary research, and understand the potential risks and rewards.
Will the art you choose increase in value?
As with any type of investment there are no guarantees. Some works of art appreciate steadily over time, some enjoy a sudden rise in value if market trends are favorable, while other art you might invest in could rapidly lose value. This is why it’s essential for any investor interested in art to fully understand how these alternative assets might fit into your portfolio, or not.
Photo credit: iStock/South_agency
SoFi Invest® INVESTMENTS ARE NOT FDIC INSURED • ARE NOT BANK GUARANTEED • MAY LOSE VALUE SoFi Invest encompasses two distinct companies, with various products and services offered to investors as described below:
Individual customer accounts may be subject to the terms applicable to one or more of these platforms.
1) Automated Investing and advisory services are provided by SoFi Wealth LLC, an SEC-registered investment adviser (“SoFi Wealth“). Brokerage services are provided to SoFi Wealth LLC by SoFi Securities LLC.
2) Active Investing and brokerage services are provided by SoFi Securities LLC, Member FINRA (www.finra.org)/SIPC(www.sipc.org). Clearing and custody of all securities are provided by APEX Clearing Corporation.
For additional disclosures related to the SoFi Invest platforms described above please visit SoFi.com/legal.
Neither the Investment Advisor Representatives of SoFi Wealth, nor the Registered Representatives of SoFi Securities are compensated for the sale of any product or service sold through any SoFi Invest platform.
An investor should consider the investment objectives, risks, charges, and expenses of the Fund carefully before investing. This and other important information are contained in the Fund’s prospectus. For a current prospectus, please click the Prospectus link on the Fund’s respective page. The prospectus should be read carefully prior to investing. Alternative investments, including funds that invest in alternative investments, are risky and may not be suitable for all investors. Alternative investments often employ leveraging and other speculative practices that increase an investor’s risk of loss to include complete loss of investment, often charge high fees, and can be highly illiquid and volatile. Alternative investments may lack diversification, involve complex tax structures and have delays in reporting important tax information. Registered and unregistered alternative investments are not subject to the same regulatory requirements as mutual funds. Please note that Interval Funds are illiquid instruments, hence the ability to trade on your timeline may be restricted. Investors should review the fee schedule for Interval Funds via the prospectus.
Investment Risk: Diversification can help reduce some investment risk. It cannot guarantee profit, or fully protect in a down market.
Tax Information: This article provides general background information only and is not intended to serve as legal or tax advice or as a substitute for legal counsel. You should consult your own attorney and/or tax advisor if you have a question requiring legal or tax advice.
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Shares of ETFs must be bought and sold at market price, which can vary significantly from the Fund’s net asset value (NAV). Investment returns are subject to market volatility and shares may be worth more or less their original value when redeemed. The diversification of an ETF will not protect against loss. An ETF may not achieve its stated investment objective. Rebalancing and other activities within the fund may be subject to tax consequences.
Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.
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Homebuyers are looking for ways to lower their costs as high mortgage rates persist. (iStock)
Mortgage rates pushed further into the 7% range as the Federal Reserve seems unlikely to reverse its restrictive policy stance anytime soon, according to Freddie Mac.
The average 30-year fixed-rate mortgage was 7.22% for the week ending May 2, according to Freddie Mac’s latest Primary Mortgage Market Survey. That’s an increase from the previous week when it averaged 7.17%. A year ago, the 30-year fixed-rate mortgage averaged 6.39%.
The average rate for a 15-year mortgage was 6.47%, up from 6.44% last week and up from 5.76% last year.
On Wednesday, the Fed announced it would maintain the federal funds rate at 5.25% to 5.5%, where rates have held steady since last July. Fed officials have said in past meetings that they anticipated rate cuts for 2024 but need more confidence that inflation is heading toward the 2% target rate. Fed Chair Jerome Powell reiterated this sentiment on Wednesday and said it would likely take longer for the central bank to gain this confidence when speaking with reporters.
The delay in rate cuts means mortgage rates will likely stay high longer. With no ease in sight, affordability will continue to be a challenge for homebuyers, who also contend with high home prices.
“The 30-year fixed-rate mortgage increased for the fifth consecutive week as we enter the heart of Spring Homebuying Season,” Freddie Mac’s Chief Economist Sam Khater said. “On average, more than one-third of home sales for the entire year occur between March and June. With two months left of this historically busy period, potential homebuyers will likely not see relief from rising rates anytime soon.”
If you are ready to shop for the best rate on a new mortgage, consider visiting an online marketplace like Credible to compare rates and get preapproved with multiple lenders at once.
BUY A HOME IN THESE STATES TO GET STUDENT LOAN DEBT RELIEF
How higher rates are impacting housing
Homebuyers are looking for ways to lower their costs as high mortgage rates persist. Recently, there have been an increase in proptech solutions, down payment assistance and even rate buydowns, Percy.AI Founder and CEO Charles Williams said.
“Homebuyers are looking to use whatever incentives they can score,” Williams said. “We expect some of these initiatives to remain even after rates start heading down meaningfully, which is unlikely this year.”
Buyers have also increasingly turned to adjustable-rate mortgages (ARMs) for a discount. Compared to more traditional mortgage products, ARMs offer lower initial interest rates before adjusting to higher rates in the future.
“With affordability remaining a challenge, more prospective buyers are turning to adjustable-rate mortgages to lower their monthly payments in the short-term,” Bob Broeksmit, the Mortgage Bankers Association president and CEO, said. “The ARM share of applications last week reached 7.8% – the highest level this year.”
If you’re looking to become a homeowner, you could still find the best mortgage rates by shopping around. Visit Credible to compare your options without affecting your credit score.
HOMEOWNERS COULD SAVE TENS OF THOUSANDS IN DAMAGES BY USING SMART DEVICES
Home prices increase
Buyers waiting for relief from high home prices will have to wait longer. Home prices are now 6.4% above their level last year, up from the 6% increase registered in January, according to the latest S&P CoreLogic Case-Shiller national home price index report.
Fannie Mae readjusted its home price projection and forecasts upward, forecasting prices to increase 4.8% annually in 2024 and 1.5% in 2025.
“Buyers are mainly waiting to see if prices go down, too, to balance things out,” Williams said. “That is not likely to happen soon. So, buyers who can afford a home are buying, but only if they can outcompete in this crazy market.”
One way to use your home’s equity is through a cash-out refinance to help you pay down debt or fund home improvement projects. Visit Credible to find your personalized interest rate without affecting your credit score.
THIS IS THE #1 CITY FOR FIRST-TIME HOMEBUYERS, AND OTHER HOT US HOUSING MARKETS
Have a finance-related question, but don’t know who to ask? Email The Credible Money Expert at [email protected] and your question might be answered by Credible in our Money Expert column.
This post may contain affiliate links, which helps us to continue providing relevant content and we receive a small commission at no cost to you. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Please read the full disclosure here.
Welcome to the 30 Day Money Challenge!
Today, you will learn how to make your money work for you. You don’t have to be a millionaire before knowing these things, but it’s important for everyone who wants financial stability.
Remember these keywords: saving and investing? This is where they come into play for long term success.
It’s not too late to make the right financial decisions.
But, finances are complicated and intimidating for most people so it can be hard to get started.
The 30 Day Money Challenge is here to help with that.
This 30 day financial challenge will help you create a strategy that can save, spend less, and make more by the end of this month!
Are you ready to dig into this month-long money challenge?
What is the 30 Day Money Challenge?
A money challenge is a plan for how to make your finances work better.
It can be as simple as spending less or eating out less, or something more complicated like saving up for retirement or buying a house.
During this month’s timeframe, you will dig into all areas of your finances to make sure you are on track to reach your money goals.
If you do not have financial goals, then we will make sure you do at the end of this money challenge.
I’ve seen a lot of spending challenges out there that are basically just a saving money chart telling you how much money to save each day to save $1000 or $500 in one month, but they don’t tell you how to save the money. That is where the rubber meets the road and this challenge will motivate you to improve your money habits.
Overall, you will learn more about your finances than you did previously.
Why a Money Challenge is Important
A 30 day challenge is a great way to get yourself motivated and focused on saving money and improving your money management.
The goal is not enough, you need the why behind it in order to see your savings grow.
This can be as simple as:
– Setting up a direct deposit from your paycheck to an account you control and only spending what’s in that account.
– Spending less on impulse buys.
– Cutting back on luxury items to save money.
– Living more in cash and less in credit card debt.
You can also take knowledge in knowing the number of our readers who have taken the challenge to improve their money management skills.
3 Steps to Start the Money Challenge
The 30 Day Money Challenge is a simple process that starts with 3 steps.
Your reward for participating in the challenge is pretty appealing, but the process can be hard for some.
So, know these steps before you start the challenge.
1. Pick a Time
While there is no good time to start, you need to find a time when you have the highest probability of success.
Starting the money challenge during the holidays will leave you defeated. Maybe starting as a New Year’s Resolution. Or during a quieter time throughout the year.
You need to find the “right” time because you will have to dedicate at least 10-30 minutes per day. However, the longer you put it off, the less likely you are to start.
2. Be Prepared
More than likely, you will be ripping off the band-aid on some old money failures and defeats. This is common.
You have to be mentally prepared to overcome these negative feelings towards money in order to find that breakthrough moment.
3. Accountability
Find someone to keep you accountable during the challenge.
There will be points when you want to accept defeat and run back to your old money ways. It’s great to create a support system for managing money wisely.
If those old money habits didn’t serve you well before, then how will they serve you moving forward.
You need to keep your eye on the prize!
Thirty Days of Money Challenges
A 30-day money challenge is a popular type of personal finance experiment in which participants take a pledge to review their finances and overcome any obstacles that are preventing them from long term financial stability.
The goal is to teach people how quickly they can change the trajectory of their personal finances before they snowball into a serious money problem.
Day 1 – Get Organized
If you don’t have an understanding of how many accounts you have, credit cards you have open, or debt payments that are due, then you must get your personal finances organized.
Start here to learn how to organize personal finances.
Day 2 – Understand your Income
If you do not know how much do I make a year, then you must figure that out first.
It is impossible to manage money if you do not know how much money is coming in.
Also, consider all types of income sources – earned, passive or investment.
Day 3 – Understand your Expenses
Understand where your paycheck is going. When you understand how much of your money is going to things like rent, utilities, and mortgage, you can make better decisions about spending.
This is not the time for “this-is-where-I-hope-my-spending-goes;” this is the true reality of how you spend money.
Day 4 – Pay Yourself First
This is a must for long-term success. Every time you get paid, you need to pay yourself first. Put a percentage of your paycheck into savings each month before anything else is spent on non-essential items.
We suggest starting with at least 5% of your income. Even better, you want to start with 20% of your income.
You must cut your fun spending until you can save money first.
When saving becomes an automatic habit, start investing through high yield accounts like IRAs and 401(K)s.
Day 5 – Automate your Emergency Savings
Set up a transfer to put $50 into your Emergency Fund every time you get paid.
Learn how much you need in your emergency fund. Remember, the goal is never to use your emergency fund, but you always want one – just in case!
Day 6 – Create Money Goals
Figure out what your financial goals are and how much they will cost over time, then come up with a strategy to achieve them.
You need to make a plan to reach your money goals.
If you skip this step, you may be lucky and still reach your goals. But, you can find better prosperity but writing out those money goals and maybe even using a vision board.
Learn how to create smart financial goals.
Day 7 – Budget Time
Crazy! I know. Most people would think that creating a budget would need to be first. But, it isn’t. You need to figure out days 1-6 first before you dig into budgeting.
Begin tracking your expenses on paper or online as soon as possible. Here are the best budgeting apps available.
The goal with the budget is to focus on saving first, then your expenses. you must spend less than you make.
Day 8 – Make More Money
Come up with ways to generate more income. Period. You need to make your money work for you.
You need to learn how to make your income work for you by creating streams of income outside of your primary work or “earned” income.
Theoretically, if multiple streams of revenue exist at your full-time job, you can work fewer hours than necessary.
Ways to Make Money:
Day 9 – Enough with Debt
Debt will hold you back. Period.
You need to recognize that paying off your debt is the best thing you can do for your finances. However, during this 30 day financial challenge, it is not the time to focus on paying off debt.
Calculate the total amount of debt (except mortgage).
Put down getting out of debt as one of your money goals and the timeframe to make it happen.
For now, don’t take on more debt, and make sure you’re paying the minimum on your credit card balance.
Day 10 – Understand Investing
Investing is a way of giving your money the opportunity to work for you. In other words, you are using what you have now in order to make more out of what you have in the future.
This is the first step to earning investment income that will fund your lifestyle.
Typically, most people associate investing in the stock market. Many people invest with their 401ks or IRAs. However, you can invest your personal income as well.
What if you could earn a return on that opportunity cost? For example, what if you invested the $10 in your wallet and it grew to be $20?
Learn how to start investing.
Trade and Travel 2.0
Learn to trade stocks with confidence.
Whether you want to:
Retire in peace without financial anxiety
Pay your bills without taking on a side hustle
Quit your 9-5 and do what you love
Or just make more than your current income….
Making $1,000 every.single.day is NOT a pie-in-the-sky goal.
It’s been done over and over again, and the 30,000 students that Teri has helped to be financially independent and fulfill their financial dreams are my witnesses…
Day 11 – Control Excess Spending
Every time you spend money, it is an opportunity cost to your future self. You are trading away your future self’s money to buy something today.
Is that what you want?
More than likely, no.
Learn how to drastically cut expenses.
Day 12 – Autopay your Bills
Consider setting up an autopay feature for your bills. It can help you avoid late fees and will have a steadier flow of money coming in.
This will help you to make sure you have the cash flow available to meet your expenses.
Day 13 – Avoid Fees
One of the best ways to save money is by avoiding fees.
If you have a credit card, consider switching to one with no annual fee or an introductory offer that expires after one year.
Check your bank and credit card statements for any fees you may not be aware of.
If there is a fee, call the company and negotiate to have it removed or reduced.
Day 14 – Automate Retirement Contributions
You should automatically make a certain percentage of your salary go to a 401k or other savings account, and the other percentage goes to your checking account for spending money.
This is something your human resources department can help you set up.
Day 15 – Increase your Retirement Contributions
Now, that you have automated your retirement contribution, you want to increase you much your contribution each year until you are maxed out by IRS limits.
Start to increase your retirement contributions by 1%.
Set a five-year goal to fully max your retirement contributions!
Halfway Point!!
You’re halfway through the 30 day money challenge!
Keep up the good work and keep reaching for your goals.
You’ve made it this far, so just imagine what you’ll be able to do in another month of working hard towards saving more money.
Day 16 – Communication
Don’t think money has to be a taboo topic. In fact, you need to be comfortable talking about money.
The key is to be on the same page with key family members about where money should go. This is something that we struggled with our marriage and had to overcome. Thankfully, we did and we made way more progress than previously.
Day 17: Invest in yourself
I know you’re probably tired of hearing about investing in yourself, but it’s important. Investing means putting money into something that will make more money back. You might not think this applies to you, but it really can! You might not have a big budget for investing in stocks or mutual funds right now, so let’s talk about something you do spend money on every day: you.
You only learn by growing.
Day 18 – Start Reading About Personal FInance
This isn’t something that you do once or twice. Make it a goal to read books on money or personal finances each month.
Importantly, make sure you are reading books, regardless of what aspect they look at money. It is never too late to pick up new tricks or ideas.
Plus learning from others’ money stories is powerful.
Day 19 – Free Fun
Participating in only free activities for 30 days, and refusing to spend a single penny, we created a guide to make that happen for you.
101+ Things to Do with No Money
After writing that post, we discovered this is one of the best money saving ideas out there. This guide not only teaches you how to save money but also teaches about where you want to spend money and the importance of living a purposeful life.
Day 20 – Review Insurance
You need to make sure you are properly covered with insurance as well as not paying too much money for your policies.
There are all of the types of insurance you need to review:
This is something you should do once a year.
Day 21 – Waste Less Food
You need to learn to save money by wasting less food.
This doesn’t mean you have to make homemade meals every night of the week! The goal is not to throw food away – that is hard earned cash going right down the trash.
Ways to Save Money on Groceries:
Day 22 – Buy Second Hand
Consider second-hand stores and consignment sales as options for buying used items. Thrift stores are also great to save money on clothes and other household items.
The same is true for buying cars, baby equipment, kids clothes, etc. Plus you protect our world.
Day 23 – Save Money
So, this day is all about saving money and I think that it’s the most important one of them all because if you’re not saving your money, then what are you doing with it? You’re throwing it away.
So today, I want to talk about two different types of saving money – physical and mental. The first one is all about physically saving your money. This is the easiest one because it doesn’t require any effort on your part to do so, but it’s also very important as well.
The second type of saving money is mental saving. This is all about saving your money because you know that something better will come along soon and it gives you hope for the future!
So, I think these two types of savings are both really important.
Day 24 – Give Back
This is the time to give back to others, donate money to charities, and put small contributions into charity.
By hoarding money, you are not learning the principles of helping others just like you have been helped along the way.
Day 25 – Renegoite Interest Rates
Right now, we are not starting to pay off debt. We are looking for ways to save on higher interest payments.
Make calls to renegotiate your interest rates on your debt. If the credit card company says no, then look at a zero interest transfer.
Just no more debt.
Day 26 – Avoid Scarity Mindset
You have to believe in yourself that you are capable of achieving great things and that includes success money.
However, we get caught in this trap of hoarding materialistic items in order to make up for the dollars in our bank account or money that was wasted in buying them.
If you don’t believe how poverty mentality overwhelms your life, then read this story of reclaiming your home with decluttering.
Day 27 – Cut Out What you Don’t Need
If you are not using something, sell it or give it away to someone who can use it more than you do!
You’ll save money and make room in your budget for the things that matter.
We learned a lot when we started to own less stuff.
Day 28 – Prepare for a No Spend Challenge
If you have not been able to keep your spending in check, this is an excellent opportunity for you to try out a no spend challenge once this challenge finishes.
A no spend challenge will help you to review your budget and see what areas of spending need more attention in order to increase savings or pay down debt.
Also, it will help you focus on what area are important to spend money.
Day 29 – Reward Yourself
This is the biggest lesson I learned when paying off debt and trying to increase our savings percentage. I became unable to spend money. I would feel guilty about spending money.
That is not the type of life you want. You must be comfortable spending money (especially if you are a thrifty person).
Pick rewards to match your smart financial goals. Keep motivated with those rewards.
Day 30 – Stay on Track
Proper money management does not end just because the end of the 30 day challenge is over. This is a lifelong skill to master and perfect.
Keep focused by not going over budget limits and being honest about where you really stand financially today as opposed to where you want it to be in the future.
You can stay on track if you have a deep desire to continue.
30 Day Money Saving Challenge
This one is just about saving money. Period.
Each day, you save money to reach your goal.
For many people, the 30 day money saving challenge will make sure you are on track with your goals and objectives.
At the minimum, you should be able to save $500 in 30 days. But, you need to decide what you want to save in a month.
The challenge is open to everyone, so this might be the perfect opportunity for you!
What is the 30 Day Money saving Challenge?
The 30 day money saving challenge is saving a set amount of money during the month.
Keep in mind, not everyone will be able to save this much in 30 days and that’s perfectly okay.
You need to make it work with your budget.
Another option for the 30 Day Money Challenge is committing to give up one or more expenses for the whole month. For instance, pick ten things that cost you money and give them up for 30 days.
How to get started with the 30 day savings challenge
The 30 day savings challenge is a simple but effective way to get started saving money.
You can choose any of these methods:
Take the amount you want to save and divide by 30. That is how much to save daily.
Determine the amount to save and take that immediately when you are paid.
It is easy to go in order or skip around depending on what amount you want to save each day.
Keep change hidden in jars and watch it add up over time, then put the money away every day and see where they rank at the end of the month.
Give up a certain expense and save that money.
Try a modified version of the 100 day challenge.
You can find plenty of money saving challenge printable or PDF in our resource library.
Want more easy money saving challenges?
Are you in for this 30 Day Money Reset Challenge?
This is only a 30 day money challenge because it’s a short period of time to gain a win. That is what you need to keep up the motivation as well as have a strong kickstart to your finances.
In order to build wealth through their finances, these are 30 smart moves that require no time on some days.
Don’t lose momentum. If you miss a day, then jump back into the challenge the next day.
The key to success for 2021 is to take control of your finances.
Photo Credit:
www.rakuten.com
The Shopping Trick to Save Hundreds of Dollars
Personally, I love to shop online from the convenience of my own home and have packages delivered to my house. Plus you can get paid to shop online!! The process is super simple.
Just head here to get an Rakuten/Ebates account, click on the retailer you are shopping online, and then complete your checkout process as normal.
Already a Rakuten / Ebtaes member? Make sure you have the Extension Buttonfor automatic savings!
Photo Credit:
www.asktrim.com
Perfect for the person who hates to hassle with canceling subscriptions and checking spending. Trim is a virtual personal assistant that constantly works to save users money.
Trim adds value in such ways as canceling old subscriptions, setting spending alerts, checking how much users spent on ride-sharing apps the previous month, and automatically fighting fees.
Photo Credit:
ibotta.com
Ibotta can be used for grocery stores, drugstores or online shopping. Once you accrue $20 in your account, you can transfer it to PayPal or venmo or buy gift cards to selected retailers.
Just for signing up, they will give you a bonus when you use use this link. Ibotta rocks at bonus categories and offers. This is where your cash back can really add up fast.
Photo Credit:
checkout51.com
Checkout 51 can be used for grocery stores or drugstores. Their offers are valid each week from Thursday-Wednesday. With new offers released each Thursday.
One of my favorite offers is the “Pick your own offer” – it is a selection of 5 fruits of veggies to redeem for extra cents cash back. Once your account balance is over $20, they will mail you a check.
Know someone else that needs this, too? Then, please share!!
Did the post resonate with you?
More importantly, did I answer the questions you have about this topic? Let me know in the comments if I can help in some other way!
Your comments are not just welcomed; they’re an integral part of our community. Let’s continue the conversation and explore how these ideas align with your journey towards Money Bliss.
Situated in the heart of the Pacific Northwest, Spokane offers a special blend of urban excitement and natural beauty. Living in Spokane means enjoying the vibrant arts scene, exploring the stunning Riverfront Park, and taking advantage of the nearby outdoor adventures like hiking and skiing. The city is known for its friendly neighborhoods and a strong sense of community, making it a welcoming place for newcomers. So, if you’ve been asking yourself, “Should I move to Spokane, WA?” you’re in the right place. In this article, we’ll explore the pros and cons of life in Spokane to help you decide if it’s the perfect spot for your next adventure. Let’s go.
Spokane at a Glance
Walk Score: 49 | Bike Score: 52 | Transit Score: 36
Median Sale Price: $372,000 | Average Rent for 1-Bedroom Apartment: $1,380
Spokane neighborhoods | Houses for rent in Spokane | Apartments for rent in Spokane | Homes for sale in Spokane
Pro: Access to outdoor recreation
Spokane, offers unparalleled access to outdoor recreation. The city is surrounded by numerous parks, rivers, and mountains, making it a haven for nature enthusiasts. Riverside State Park, just a short drive from downtown, provides opportunities for hiking, biking, and kayaking. Additionally, Mount Spokane offers excellent skiing and snowboarding options during the winter months, making it a year-round destination for outdoor activities.
Con: Limited public transportation
With a Transit Score of 36, one of the downsides of living in Spokane is the limited public transportation options. The city’s bus system, while functional, does not cover all areas comprehensively, making it challenging for residents without a car to navigate the city efficiently. This can be particularly inconvenient for those who rely on public transit for their daily commute or errands.
Pro: Relatively affordable cost of living
Spokane boasts a relatively affordable cost of living compared to other cities in the Pacific Northwest like Seattle. Additionally, average housing prices are more reasonable, sitting at about $60,000 less than the national average. Finally, everyday expenses such as groceries and utilities are generally lower in this city. This affordability makes Spokane an attractive option for anyone looking to stretch their dollars further.
Con: Harsh winter weather
Spokane experiences harsh winter weather, which can be a significant drawback for some residents. The city often sees heavy snowfall and freezing temperatures, making travel and outdoor activities challenging during the winter months. Residents need to be prepared for snow removal and the potential for icy roads, which can be a hassle for those unaccustomed to such conditions.
Pro: Thriving arts and culture scene
Spokane has a thriving arts and culture scene that sets it apart from other cities. The city is home to the Spokane Symphony, numerous art galleries, and the historic Fox Theater, which hosts a variety of performances and events. Additionally, the annual Spokane International Film Festival attracts filmmakers and movie enthusiasts from around the world, adding to the city’s cultural richness.
Con: Air quality issues
Spokane occasionally faces air quality issues, particularly during wildfire season. Smoke from nearby wildfires can drift into the city, leading to poor air quality and health concerns for locals. This can be especially problematic for individuals with respiratory conditions, who may need to take extra precautions during these periods.
Spokane is known for its strong sense of community and friendly residents. The city hosts numerous community events, such as the annual Bloomsday Run and Hoopfest, which bring people together and foster a sense of belonging. This tight-knit community atmosphere makes it easy for newcomers to feel welcome and quickly integrate into local life.
Con: Limited nightlife options
For those who enjoy a bustling nightlife, Spokane may feel somewhat limited. While the city has a selection of bars, restaurants, and entertainment venues, it lacks the variety and late-night options found in larger metropolitan areas. Residents seeking a more dynamic nightlife scene may need to travel to nearby cities like Seattle or Portland for a broader range of activities.
Pro: Excellent educational institutions
Spokane is home to several excellent educational institutions, including Gonzaga University and Whitworth University. These schools offer a range of undergraduate and graduate programs, attracting people from across the country. The presence of these institutions also contributes to the city’s dynamic academic and cultural environment.
Jenna is a Midwest native who enjoys writing about home improvement projects and local insights. When she’s not working, you can find her cooking, crocheting, or backpacking with her fiancé.