Insurance offers a vital safety net, protecting you against financial loss if something bad happens. One unexpected event — like a car accident, an emergency room visit or a storm that damages your home — could easily wipe out your savings. Insurance helps you manage the risk of a financial disaster. Let’s look at some basic types of insurance and when you might need them.
Medical insurance
Medical insurance helps cover your expenses if you’re hit with a big health-related bill. It’s also frequently used to pay for routine preventive care. The basic types of medical insurance are:
Health insurance
Even if you’re young and healthy, you need health insurance. If you don’t have insurance and you’re not covered by a program like Medicare or Medicaid, you’ll likely have to pay 100% of your health care costs out of pocket. Hospitals typically charge uninsured patients anywhere from two to four times what they’d charge an insurance company or public program.
Often, uninsured people must pay upfront to receive care.
Many people receive health coverage through their jobs. If you don’t work for a company that offers health insurance or you’re self-employed, you can shop for a plan on the Health Insurance Marketplace using healthcare.gov.
Dental insurance
Dental insurance pays for most preventive and basic dental care, like cleanings, checkups and fillings. If you need a major procedure, like a root canal, many plans will only pay around 50%. Still, dental insurance is often worth the cost if you take advantage of preventive care.
Vision insurance
Vision insurance pays for a portion of basic eye care, including eye exams, eyeglasses and contact lenses. If you don’t wear eyeglasses or contact lenses and only require an occasional eye exam, vision insurance may not be worth the cost.
Property and casualty insurance
Property insurance protects the things you own, like your house or car. Casualty insurance protects your assets in case you’re found legally liable for an injury or property damage. These two types of insurance are frequently lumped together in a single policy.
Homeowners insurance
Homeowners insurance helps you pay for repairs and replacement costs if your home is damaged by certain disasters, like a fire, or you’re the victim of vandalism or theft.
Most policies help pay for temporary housing if you’re unable to live in your home due to a covered loss. Your homeowners insurance can also help pay to defend you or cover medical bills if someone is injured on your property.
Though homeowners insurance isn’t required by law, your lender will probably require it if you have a mortgage. Even when it isn’t required, you don’t want to skip homeowners insurance due to the exorbitant costs of a major repair or rebuilding your home altogether.
Renters insurance
Your landlord probably has insurance on the property you rent, but most landlords’ policies only cover damage to the building and not your personal belongings. Renters insurance helps pay for the cost of replacing your belongings, like your furniture, clothing and electronics. It also offers liability protection and assistance with temporary housing costs if your unit becomes uninhabitable.
Some landlords require renters to have insurance. Even when it isn’t required, renters insurance is a wise choice, and it may cost less than you expect. The typical monthly premium for renters insurance ranges from $8 to $21, depending on your state.
Auto insurance
An auto insurance policy can financially protect you in the event of an accident, or if your car is stolen. Almost every state requires a minimum amount in order to drive legally. These minimum requirements include liability insurance, which pays for injuries or property damage you cause if you are at fault in an accident.
Most insurance companies offer optional types of car insurance coverage that can provide additional financial protection. For example, many insurers offer rental reimbursement, which pays for a rental car if yours is in the shop for a covered claim.
Pet insurance
Any pet parent who believes they wouldn’t be able to afford a major vet bill out of pocket should shop for pet insurance. Veterinary bills can add up quickly when your furry friend is sick or injured. For example, the cost of canine intestinal blockage surgery could be anywhere from $800 to $7,000, according to the Canine Journal.
Flood insurance
Most water damage caused by flooding isn’t covered by a standard homeowners insurance policy. That’s a serious concern for homeowners given recent severe weather events like Hurricane Ian in Florida, record-breaking rain in Montpelier, Vermont, and historic flash floods in Kentucky. You’ll need separate flood insurance to cover these types of damages.
Your lender will require flood insurance if you live in a FEMA-designated “special flood hazard area.”
But even when it’s not mandatory, homeowners should assess their flood risk to determine if a separate policy makes sense.
Umbrella insurance
An umbrella insurance policy kicks in if you’re responsible for damages or injuries that exceed the limits of your other policies, like homeowners and auto insurance. It often pays for your legal costs as well. Umbrella insurance isn’t legally required, but if you own property or have significant assets, consider an umbrella policy for additional protection.
Other types of property and casualty insurance
You may need other types of property and casualty insurance based on your situation. For example, earthquake insurance is probably necessary if you live near a fault line, as standard homeowners and renters policies don’t cover earthquake-related damage. If you own a boat, snowmobile, golf cart or all-terrain vehicle, you’ll need power sports insurance. Landlord insurance is a must if you own a property that generates rental income.
Life insurance
Would your death place a financial burden on others? If the answer is yes, then you need life insurance. If you’re not sure, ask yourself the following:
Does your partner or spouse rely on your income?
Do you have children or other dependents who rely on your income?
Could someone else inherit your debt, like a co-signer or joint account owner, or your spouse if you live in a community property state?
Would your funeral place a financial burden on loved ones?
Do you own a business that employs people that would likely fail in your absence?
If you answered yes to any of these questions, life insurance is a must. In most situations, term life insurance will be sufficient to meet your needs.
Disability insurance
A 20-year-old worker has about a 1 in 4 chance of becoming disabled before reaching retirement age.
Qualifying for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) can be difficult, given that only 21% of initial claims were approved on average between 2010 and 2019.
Disability insurance replaces part of your income if you become unable able to work due to an illness or injury. Many employers offer disability insurance, but if you’re self-employed or your employer doesn’t offer coverage, consider buying individual short-term and long-term policies.
Your air conditioner is crucial, especially during scorching hot days. But what happens if your AC unit breaks down? Will your home insurance cover the cost to repair or replace it? Here’s what you need to know.
Does home insurance cover AC units?
Home insurance will cover your AC unit if it’s damaged by fire, lightning, vandalism, storms or other scenarios, or “perils,” your policy covers.
For instance, if a tree lands on your AC unit during a storm, your home insurance will likely cover the cost to repair or replace it. Similarly, if someone steals your AC unit, your insurance can help pay for a new one.
Your coverage also depends on what type of AC unit you have. Central air conditioning systems are typically covered under the dwelling portion of your home insurance policy because they’re attached to the home. Dwelling coverage is usually offered on an “open perils” basis, which means your central AC unit is probably covered unless it was damaged by an event specifically excluded from your policy.
However, if you own a portable or window AC unit, that likely falls under your personal property coverage, which pays for damage to movable belongings. Because personal property coverage is typically covered on a “named perils” basis, your policy may only cover damage to your window AC unit if it’s caused by a specific event named in your policy.
Insurance companies use precise language to describe what is and isn’t covered, so review your policy carefully and contact your carrier if you have questions about your coverage.
When does home insurance not cover your AC unit?
Home insurance typically won’t cover damage to your AC unit in these cases:
Wear and tear. Home insurance doesn’t cover damage caused by gradual wear and tear or aging. If your AC breaks down due to normal use over time, you’ll likely have to handle the repair or replacement costs on your own.
Lack of maintenance. Your insurer may deny your claim if the damage happened because you neglected your air conditioner’s regular maintenance.
Flood damage. Standard home insurance generally excludes coverage for damage caused by flooding, including damage to your AC unit. You’ll need separate flood insurance for that.
Mechanical breakdowns. Mechanical breakdowns usually aren’t covered under standard home insurance unless you’ve added equipment breakdown coverage to your policy.
Do you need equipment breakdown coverage for your AC unit?
Equipment breakdown coverage is an optional add-on to your home insurance policy that protects you financially against unexpected mechanical failures of essential household equipment, including your AC unit. It goes beyond standard home insurance by covering mechanical breakdowns that aren’t normally included in regular policies.
🤓Nerdy Tip
Think of it like this: Home insurance pays for AC unit damage due to fire, lightning, wind, hail and other covered perils. Equipment breakdown coverage pays for damage from sudden and accidental breakdowns caused by a faulty motor, circuit breaker or compressor.
How to file a claim when your AC breaks down
If your AC unit is damaged and needs repair or replacement, follow these steps to file a claim:
Document the damage. Take photos or videos of the damaged AC unit and any other affected areas to support your claim.
Decide if you want to file a claim. If your loss is covered by your policy, you now have to decide whether to file a claim. Take your home insurance deductible into consideration when deciding whether to file a claim, as it may be higher than the cost to repair the AC unit. Also consider the possibility that filing a claim may increase your premiums, which means you may not want to file a claim for a smaller payout.
Contact your insurer. If you decide to file a claim, you can usually do so online or over the phone. Be prepared to share photos, receipts and other documents. Keep copies of all of it.
Get an estimate. Ask a licensed contractor how much it will cost to repair or replace the AC unit.
Work with the adjuster. Your insurance company will assign an adjuster to your claim to assess the damage. Work with the adjuster to get your claim processed as quickly as possible.
Wait for payment. Once your claim is approved, your insurance company will provide payment for the repair or replacement of the AC unit. Follow up with your insurance company if you have any questions or concerns about the payment.
Quiet luxury, also known as “stealth wealth,” is one of the latest trends taking fashion by storm. Now it’s entering the home space.
The minimalist aesthetic can be summed up by the phrase “money talks, wealth whispers.” Quiet luxury replaces ostentatious displays with subtle high-end staples, eschewing gaudy accents and logo prints typically associated with the upper class.
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Gwyneth Paltrow channeled quiet luxury in her court case earlier this year over her skiing accident, while the conniving cast of characters on “Succession” dressed in understated, yet expensive basics by brands like Ralph Lauren, Max Mara and Loro Piana.
The versatility of quiet luxury makes it easily translatable into interior design. Here, WWD explains how to bring the trend to your home.
Color palette
Rather than going for bold shades, focus on neutral tones of taupe or beige, balancing them with lighter shades like white and cream. Darker hues including navy, olive green, brown, gray and black are also synonymous with quiet luxury.
Textures
Embracing comfort is a key aspect of quiet luxury. Cozy fabrics such as linen, velvet and shearling can be incorporated in upholstery, curtains and bedding. Adding some knit blankets to your sleep and living spaces will also get the job done.
For solid surfaces, lean into stone and wood finishes. Textures such as marble, travertine, oak and timber can modernize any space while simultaneously referencing classic aspects of design.
Furniture
Nothing says quiet luxury like quality investment pieces. Rather than giving into current trends, seek out furnishings that will stand the test of time. Crisp, clean lines are a focal point of this aesthetic, so leave behind any standout accents — read: gold leaf and baroque moulding.
Decor
Quiet luxury decor, much like the rest of the aesthetic, relies on simplicity. Pick out simple, abstract prints to cover your wall or accent pillows with minimalistic patterns. To up the comfort factor, opt for soft lighting.
Brands
Retailers like Restoration Hardware, CB2 and West Elm have plenty of furniture and decor options in line with the quiet luxury trend. If you want to get the quiet luxury look on a budget, home lines at Zara and H&M offer simple, yet sophisticated decor options at affordable prices.
Vintage pieces are also a great way to channel quiet luxury. Search for midcentury modern and postmodern styles to achieve a sleek look.
Achieving the dream of homeownership takes on a unique flavor when set against the backdrop of the Sunshine State – Florida. Whether you’re drawn to the enchanting coastal allure of Miami Beach condos or the serene suburban vibes of Tampa, FL, houses, navigating the path to owning a piece of Florida paradise comes with its own set of considerations. From the annual dance of hurricane season to the nuances of local architecture and environmental factors, being well-informed through an indispensable home inspection is paramount before buying a home.
Across Florida’s diverse regions, seasoned home inspectors have encountered an array of challenges that potential homebuyers should be aware of. In this Redfin article, we delve into six things to look out for when buying a home in Florida.
1. Regularly assess for mold
“For more than three decades, we’ve been serving the entirety of Florida. Our specialization lies in thorough mold assessments. Given the yearly exposure to hurricanes in our region, homes often experience significant water intrusion and damage from these storms. Unfortunately, some of these issues remain hidden until much later,” shares Inspection Services of Florida LLC.
“We collaborate closely with numerous customers who encounter respiratory problems. In such cases, we conduct assessments to determine if mold is the underlying cause. As a result of the history of hurricanes, we frequently uncover storm-related damage that was either left unaddressed or concealed, often due to house flipping.
Prior hurricanes have taught us a valuable lesson: comprehensive mold inspections are vital before purchasing a home. This step ensures transparency and helps safeguard your investment for the long term.”
Courtesy of Inspection Services of Florida LLC
2. Pest intrusion
“On one of my home inspections I observed a hole in an exterior stucco-covered foam trim board. As I continued my inspection I noticed a Woodpecker flying around the area. So I decided to remove myself a distance away to see what the bird was doing. It only took a few minutes when I saw a Woodpecker land at the entrance of the hole in the trim board. I realized what was happening, the Woodpeckers using its bill to find insects. In this case the material that the Woodpecker was pecking on was easy to penetrate and so it continued to burrow out an entrance into the trim material,” says RTS Inspections.
“Exterior grade cement coated (stucco) foam molding is made of Styrofoam or Polystyrene Foam, which can be fabricated into many different shapes. This product is used nationally in many climates. Foam is easy to cut into and shape as needed. Stucco covered foam trim is very beneficial as a source of insulation and as a decorative element around exterior surfaces of a home, like around windows and doors.
As with all structures, there is always a concern for potential animal intrusion. Animals are very good at finding ways to get into areas to build nests. Rodents for instance will jump off tree branches that are too close to the building and land on roofs. Once they land they search for gaps and holes to enter into.
When inspecting a home it is crucial to look for possible entry points around the house and report on those areas. The next step for the inspector is to observe areas inside the house that might be impacted by those entry points. In the case of this Woodpecker, the damages were limited to just the exterior trim board. In other cases, I have seen gaps in soffits and eaves where animals have penetrated and entered into attics. In the case of animal or pest infestation, a licensed pest removal contractor is recommended.”
Courtesy of RTS Inspections
3. Storm impact
“Whether factual or mere folklore, the moniker ‘Lightning Capital of the World’ is a label frequently associated with Florida,” shares Sherlock Home Inspections. “Given the prevalence of storms in the region, it’s a nickname that holds some truth. However, with these climatic conditions comes a distinctive set of challenges, particularly in the realm of electrical systems.
Take a close look at the copper wires shown below. While discoloration might typically arise due to oxidation, the distinct blue hue of these wires stems from a surge triggered by a lightning storm. Upon more comprehensive inspection, a host of additional issues were brought to light—underscoring the importance of addressing electrical concerns with precision and vigilance in a region renowned for its electrical intensity.
Courtesy of Sherlock Home Inspections
In a state prone to high winds and intense rainfall, addressing roof problems promptly is imperative. Florida’s climatic conditions make it imperative to identify and rectify roofing issues as soon as they arise. It’s crucial to recognize that even minor roof concerns can rapidly snowball into significant complications. Given this reality, securing the services of a knowledgeable Home Inspector becomes paramount. A seasoned professional who understands the intricacies of roofing systems can detect potential red flags, ensuring that minor hitches are nipped in the bud before they evolve into major complications. With the right expertise at your side, you can confidently navigate the challenges of maintaining a secure and resilient roof in Florida’s ever-changing weather landscape.”
4. Termites
“Florida is susceptible to termite problems due to its warm and humid climate, which creates a conducive environment for these pests to thrive. Termite swarms are a common occurrence in Florida during the warm and humid months. These swarms are often a sign of an established colony nearby, and they can be quite alarming to homeowners,” warns Next Step Inspections.
“The two most common termites are:
Subterranean: These are the most common and destructive type of termites in Florida. They build their colonies underground and create mud tubes to access wood above ground. They can cause significant damage to structures if left unchecked.
Drywood Termites: These termites infest dry wood and do not require contact with soil. They can be found in furniture, wooden beams, and other wooden structures. Their infestations can be hard to detect until significant damage has occurred.
We have found that if the wooden structures go untreated for long periods of time and these insects invade the wood, severe damage can impact the integrity and the structure. We have seen areas that are unsafe to walk in the attic due to significant termite damage. In cases where the damage is detrimental, a structural engineer or building contractor will review the damages to recommend the proper repair.
Dealing with termites in Florida often requires professional pest control services. Regular inspections by experienced technicians can help detect infestations early and implement effective treatment plans. We recommend having a Wood Destroying Organism (WDO) Inspection when you are considering the purchase of a property. This inspection can help identify other issues the home inspector may not be qualified to include in their report.”
5. Polybutylene piping
“Polybutylene piping stands as a nightmare for both property owners and the insurance industry at large. As a solution for home re-piping, polybutylene piping emerged on the scene. It offered flexibility, ease of use, and cost-effectiveness during its time. While it had been in use since the 1970s, its popularity soared in the 1980s and 1990s. However, it was eventually discontinued in the mid to late 1990s due to its susceptibility to leaks,” informs Orlando’s Best Home Inspection. “The chlorine present in municipal water systems caused joints and piping to fail. Typically, the interior of the tube is gray or black, while the exterior can range in blue, black, or gray. The lettering ‘PB’ may also be visible, which is the clearest giveaway.
Presently, many homes still feature polybutylene piping, prompting insurance companies to mandate replacement with approved alternatives like PEX, CPVC, or copper piping.
In our practice, we thoroughly assess this issue during both our standard Orlando home inspection and our Orlando 4-point inspection. We frequently encounter cases where partial re-piping work has been carried out on visible portions of the supply system, only to find original polybutylene piping remaining in less accessible areas such as the attic. Correcting this problem is costly and presents a major obstacle in obtaining home insurance.”
6. Stucco cracks and waterproofing
“Most homes in SouthWest Florida feature exterior walls made of concrete block with stucco finishing. It’s common for stucco to develop hairline cracks over time. These cracks are generally not a structural concern as long as they are too narrow to fit a penny. If a penny can fit, it raises some cause for concern,” suggests Golden Rule Home Inspections.
“When cracks in the stucco follow the block pattern, it indicates excessive settlement in the foundation. Again, if these cracks are wide enough to accommodate a penny, they warrant attention.
The waterproofing of SouthWest Florida’s concrete block and stucco homes relies on painting the stucco. If a crack appears in the stucco, the waterproofing becomes compromised, potentially leading to water intrusion and subsequent mold growth. To address this, it’s recommended to repair the crack by applying a small amount of Mor-Flexx caulking or an equivalent product. After applying, gently rub it in with a sponge or foam paint brush to blend it into the wall’s finish, followed by painting the wall. Mor-Flexx boasts a mortar-like appearance that stretches like rubber, retaining its elasticity over the years.”
Courtesy Golden Rule Home Inspections
7. Insurance challenges and regional concerns
“I think the biggest issue in Florida right now is insurance companies leaving the state. They have become very particular about roofs. Even though most asphalt shingle roofs last more than 20 years, they do not like roofs past 15 years old. Even in very good condition. This due to the losses coming from hurricanes in the recent past,” says Pillar To Post Home Inspectors.
“Insurance inspections need to be done on top of getting a thorough home inspection. 4-Point (Roofs, Plumbing, Electrical, and HVAC) Inspections are expected on homes 20 years old or older. Getting a Wind Mitigation Inspection, which is determining the home’s wind resistance, can save a lot of money on insurance costs.
Another thing I think is very regional to the state is mold testing. With the humidity in Florida, this is a common concern. Especially in homes that have been vacant, and the air conditioner is not turned on or set at 78 degrees or higher.”
When someone heads off to college, they are often setting up a whole new household. They want and need items that help them get their new lifestyle up and running. If you are buying gifts for a student, you can help them achieve that by giving them items that are convenient, practical, and a little bit fun.
That’s where this list can come in handy. It identifies some of the most useful, in-demand gifts you could give a recent high-school grad or current college student. Plus there are clever ideas that may well elicit an “I love it!” from the recipient, such as a subscription to a favorite streaming service.
Read on for smart, inspiring ideas for presents for the students in your life.
Apparel and Accessory Gifts for College Students
College students need to be prepared for any situation on campus, whether that’s a winter storm, a job interview, or a trip to the school’s gym to workout. Clothing and accessories are college gifts that are likely to be appreciated. They’re practical, of course, and can help the recipient save money on clothes.
1. Backpack
A good-quality and versatile backpack is a college staple. Your college student may want a waterproof bag with plenty of compartments with room for books, a laptop, and other personal items. The backpack should also be comfortable to carry around throughout the day and durable enough to last for several semesters.
2. Messenger Bag or Tote Bag
An office-ready tote or messenger bag can be great for internships or interviews. Plus, it can be used beyond college.
3. Activewear
Whether they’re playing on a college team, a regular at the gym, or just like the style and comfort, activewear can be a useful gift for most college students. There are many different styles and brands at various price points.
4. Gym Bag
For college students who may use the school’s gym facilities or participate in a sport, a gym bag is essential. Make sure to get an appropriate size bag depending on how much they need to carry.
5. Outdoor Winter Gear
This may not be as important if they’re attending school in a warm location, but students need warm winter clothing when they’re walking back and forth between classes. Your college student may need warm winter boots for the snow, a heavy coat, thick socks, a hat, and gloves. And those can be pricey, so they make a great gift.
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6. Waterproof Gear
The last thing a college student wants is a wet bag while they’re carrying their textbooks and laptop. A waterproof backpack and an umbrella should help protect expensive gear and a raincoat and boots should keep your college student dry between classes.
7. College Hoodies/Sweatshirts
One popular gift for college students is a hoodie or sweatshirt with the school’s team logo. This can typically be found through the college’s website or they may sell them on campus as well.
This type of gear can be especially fun for students to wear when getting involved in on-campus activities and showing their school spirit.
8. Loungewear
The dorm will be home for the next couple of semesters so it’s important to be comfortable. Loungewear can be found online or in stores and come in a variety of styles and prices.
9. Professional Attire
A professional outfit is a must for the college student going on interviews or for any formal gathering. If you don’t feel comfortable picking out an office-ready outfit, there are subscription services available with styles based on the information filled out by the recipient, or a gift card to a specific store may work as well.
Another great idea for a present for a college student: a gift card to a specific store.
Recommended: What Is College Like?
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Dorm Room Gifts for College Students
There are too many dorm room college essentials to list. The little things go a long way and can help make college life more comfortable and enjoyable.
10. Bedding/Blankets
Most colleges only supply a mattress, so students must bring their own sheets, blankets, and pillows. Colleges typically have dorm beds with a twin XL mattress, but it should be confirmed with the school before buying bedding. Make sure to buy an extra set of sheets so that they always have a clean set.
11. Basic Kitchenware
Whether your college student has a dorm room kitchen or will mostly be eating in the dining hall, basic kitchenware is a necessity for a quick meal or a late-night snack. Basic kitchenware includes utensils, knives, plates and bowls, cups, and food storage containers.
12. Laundry Basket
Dorms typically don’t provide a washer and dryer in the dorm room so students will need to bring their laundry to the communal laundry room.
13. Alarm Clock
Getting up on time for classes can sometimes be a struggle so your college student may need a little help. A digital alarm clock should do the trick even for the heaviest of sleepers.
14. Bathrobe
Aside from the comfort and luxury that bathrobes may bring, they’re a necessity for college. A bathrobe will give a little bit of extra security when your college student goes to take a shower.
15. Storage
Dorm rooms are usually small, so your student will want to maximize every inch they have. There are tons of great storage solutions from under-bed bags and bins, over-the-door storage racks, and hanging strips or hooks.
16. Desk Supplies
Desk supplies are a must-have and make great gifts for college students. Consider desktop organizers, pens and pencils, a lamp, and also a comfortable desk chair.
17. Lap Desk
A lap desk can make a convenient gift for college students to make studying around campus more comfortable. They’re portable and perfect for taking notes or setting a laptop.
18. Streaming Service
It’s easy to spend a lot of money on streaming services, and college students are typically on a tight budget. Get a gift card for one or a couple of streaming services to gift your college student.
19. Personal Safe
If your student has expensive or important items, it’s important they’re kept in a safe location. A small personal safe to protect valuables can give your college student some peace of mind when living with roommates. Plus, if they work a cash job and want to save the money for tuition, they will have a safe place to stash it.
20. Games
Board games or card games are perfect for a relaxing night with roommates and friends.
Food and Drink Gifts for College Students
College cuisine doesn’t have to be instant ramen or dining hall meals. You might help your student get set up to cook meals for themselves, which can be a way to save money on food, given how pricey takeout can get. Before purchasing any kitchen appliances, contact a residential assistant to double-check if they are allowed in dorm rooms at the student’s school.
21. Insulated Water Bottle
It’s a simple gift but a leak-proof insulated water bottle will keep cold drinks cold and hot drinks hot for hours.
22. Microwave
A microwave for a college dorm needs to be compact as college students aren’t working with much space. It should be big enough to fit a full-sized plate but small enough to fit on a narrow counter.
23. Mini-Fridge
A mini-fridge is good for keeping drinks cool or storing a few snacks.
24. Electric Multi-Cooker
Multi-cookers, like the InstantPot, are simple machines but can take dorm room dishes to the next level. With a multi-cooker, college students can free up space and replace multiple kitchen appliances: rice cooker, frypan, pressure cooker, slow cooker, yogurt maker, and steamer. Worth noting again, before buying any kitchen appliances — confirm they are allowed in the dorm rooms at your student’s school.
25. Coffee Maker
It may be nice to get a coffee from the local coffee shop every morning, but the cost can add up. College students on a budget can save some cash by using a coffee maker instead.
Recommended: earn money at home (or at their dorm room), whether selling things online or perhaps tele-tutoring in a subject they love.
27. Portable Charger
A portable charger ensures your college student can study, take notes, and work on assignments without worrying about their battery dying. Portable chargers come in a variety of forms with a range of features.
28. Noise-Canceling Headphones
Dorm rooms and other areas around campus sometimes don’t make the best environment for studying. Noise-canceling headphones give your college-bound student a distraction from the surrounding noise.
29. Power Strip
You can never have too many power outlets. Your college student’s dorm room may not have enough outlets for their needs.
30. USB Flash Drive
College students may need a reliable USB flash drive to use when going to the library to work on a project, when a printer isn’t working, or when moving large files. Flash drives come in a range of storage capacities and prices.
31. Portable Bluetooth Speaker
It may not be a must-have, but a portable bluetooth speaker is a fun gift for college students. There are even waterproof models for a little extra protection.
The Takeaway
Still, stumped when it comes to finding gifts for college students? Cash or gift cards go a long way and it allows your college student to purchase exactly what they want or need. A gift card can be used for their favorite restaurant or store or some cash can go towards college books, saving for college tuition, or anything else they may need.
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“Then came the advent of technology like LP and DU, which changed the game. I vividly remember spending around six hours trying to figure out how to run LP for the first time. Eventually, automation kicked in, and that’s when technology started to make its mark in our industry. In 2001, I graduated with a degree in finance and transitioned from the back end to the front end, and my brother gave me a real challenge – handling all the manufactured home packages. It was a steep learning curve, but I tackled it head-on.”
However, Volpe’s journey isn’t just defined by technological shifts; it’s a story intertwined with market turbulence and resilience. The seismic events of 9/11 and the 2008 market crash cast their shadows, adding layers of complexity to his narrative.
“When the financial crisis hit, it was a tough time for the industry. However, we weathered the storm because we didn’t focus on risky loans like many others did,” he said, revealing the mindset that carried them through the market chaos. “Our approach during that was pretty lean and focused.”
The allure of stated-income subprime loans held little appeal for Volpe’s team. Instead, they embraced a strategy of one loan at a time, minimizing risk and ensuring their longevity even as others faltered.
“Had we chosen that route, we might not have survived,” he said. “Many companies went under because they had a plethora of loans tied up in warehouse lines without investors to support them. Despite the challenges, our team, which we humorously dubbed the ‘bulky team,’ remained the top originating team in Arizona and even among all loan officers nationwide during those years. It was a period of keeping our heads down, finding innovative solutions, and continuing to assist clients.”
Dogs are more than companions. In small apartments they quickly become life’s little amplifiers, turning everyday moments into adventures and quiet evenings into the emotional recharge session you desperately needed. For renters, these breeds not only fit the physical space but also fill the hearts of their owners with companionship and charm.
If you’re searching for the perfect pup for your space, the best small dog breeds emerge not just as pets, but as partners. They weave tales of companionship in compact spaces and harmonize with the rhythm of metropolitan existence. Below you’ll find ten of the best small dog breeds for apartment life as well as some pros and cons of dog ownership. Today’s the day to find your four-legged roommate.
What makes a good apartment dog?
In a space bustling with energy, unexpected noises, and the ebb and flow of various moods, a dog’s character becomes paramount. The best small dog breeds for apartment life are those with inherent grace and adaptability. The likes of the Havanese or the cavalier King Charles spaniel, known for their mellow demeanor and innate charm, emerge as top-tier candidates.
The pragmatics of the breed, too, warrant contemplation. Urban living is not just a sensory experience, but also a logistical puzzle. Grooming needs cannot be overlooked. Consider the dainty elegance of the Pomeranian’s radiant coat or the silky finesse of the Yorkshire terrier. Beautiful, yes, but they come with the responsibility of upkeep.
Noise is a currency in the city, and its value fluctuates dramatically. Continuous barking can sour relationships faster than a brewing storm, and so breeds with quieter dispositions, like the gentle French bulldog or the composed Boston terrier, become priceless assets.
Choosing among the best small dog breeds isn’t just a task; it’s a journey through perky ears, curled tails and undeniably adorable furry faces. Just as every brick and tile in the city adds to its grand narrative, the perfect canine companion becomes an essential chapter in the dynamic story of urban life.
Navigating breed restrictions
In the winding alleys of apartment complex regulations, where every nook and clause tells a story, there lies the issue of breed restrictions. It’s common practice for apartment complexes to set weight limits, often stringent enough to sideline even some small dog breeds. It’s a careful dance of ounces and inches, with breeds just on the cusp — like a sturdy French bulldog or a hearty cocker spaniel — sometimes finding themselves in a liminal space, too hefty for some guidelines, yet small in the grand canine spectrum.
This choreography of policies can be difficult to navigate and is often best handled by giving the apartment complex a call and asking the experts about the status of your specific pup.
The pros and cons of having a dog in an apartment
Navigating the world of apartment living with a canine companion brings its own unique blend of joys and challenges. Let’s delve into some of the distinct advantages and disadvantages of sharing your compact space with a small dog.
Pros:
Companionship: Apartments can sometimes feel isolated or confining, especially for those who live alone. A dog provides companionship, love and a reason to come home, making the space feel more lively and warm.
Routine and structure: Dogs require a consistent routine for feeding, walking and play. This can bring structure to an owner’s day, promoting a healthier lifestyle and ensuring regular breaks from work or leisure activities.
Security: Even small dogs can provide an added sense of security in an apartment setting. While they might not be highly prized guard dogs, their heightened senses can detect unfamiliar sounds or changes in the environment and their barking can deter potential intruders.
Cons:
Limited space: Apartments, especially smaller ones, may not provide ample space for highly active dogs to move around and play. This can lead to potential behavioral issues if the dog doesn’t receive enough exercise or mental stimulation.
Noise sensitivity: In tight living quarters, dogs might become more aware of noises from neighbors, leading to increased barking or anxiety. Similarly, neighbors might be more affected by the sounds of a dog, which can lead to tensions.
Convenience: Unlike homes with backyards where dogs can easily be let out, apartment dwellers usually need to take their dogs out on a leash for bathroom breaks, regardless of the weather or time of day. This can be particularly challenging in high-rise buildings or areas without immediate green spaces.
While there are definite joys to having a small dog in an apartment setting, potential challenges should be considered and addressed to ensure the owner and the pup have a harmonious living experience.
The best small dog breeds for apartment renters
From the undeniably elegant Italian greyhound to the predictably goofy pug, these are ten of the top small dog breeds for apartment renters, regardless of the city they live in or the floorplan they inhabit.
French bulldog
French bulldogs are well-suited for apartment living because of their small stature and moderate energy level. They are content with shorter walks and indoor play, making extensive outdoor spaces less crucial. Additionally, their generally quiet demeanor and sociable nature make them pleasant companions for close-quarter living.
Boston terrier
Boston terriers are excellent for apartment living due to their compact size and friendly disposition. Their moderate energy level is well-matched to indoor play and short walks, making expansive outdoor spaces unnecessary. Furthermore, their affable nature and typically low tendency to bark ensure they fit seamlessly into close-knit apartment communities.
Cavalier King Charles spaniel
Cavalier King Charles spaniels are a perfect match for apartment renters because of their small size and gentle temperament. They thrive on human companionship, content with cuddling and indoor play. While they enjoy walks, their exercise needs are moderate, making them adaptable to the limited outdoor space typical of many apartments. Plus, their affectionate and sociable nature ensures they integrate well in communal living environments.
Dachshund
Dachshunds, with their compact size and charismatic personalities, are well-suited for apartment life. They have moderate energy levels that can be satisfied with short walks and indoor play. Their elongated yet small frame fits comfortably in tighter spaces, and their social and curious nature allows them to adapt quickly to the bustling environment of even the liveliest apartment communities.
Havanese
Havanese dogs are a superb choice for apartment living because of their small stature and adaptable nature. They possess a friendly and affectionate demeanor, thriving on companionship and bonding closely with their families. Their exercise requirements are modest, and they are content with indoor play and short walks, making them ideal for spaces with limited outdoor access. Additionally, their quiet and sociable traits make them delightful neighbors in apartment settings.
Pug
Pugs are ideal for people in apartments due to their compact size and easygoing nature. They are generally content lounging indoors and don’t require much exercise, making them well-suited for limited spaces. Their sociable and affectionate temperament ensures they bond closely with their families and their typically quiet demeanor means they’re unlikely to disturb neighbors in close-knit apartment communities.
Yorkshire terrier
Yorkshire terriers, often affectionately known as ‘yorkies’, are excellent for apartment living because of their petite size and spirited yet manageable energy levels. Their small stature makes them ideal for limited spaces, and while they enjoy playtime, they don’t require extensive exercise. Additionally, yorkies are known for their loyal and affectionate nature, forming strong bonds with their owners very quickly.
Italian greyhound
Italian greyhounds are well-suited for apartment life due to their slender size and serene disposition. While they enjoy short bursts of speed and play, they are equally content lounging and snuggling indoors. Their low-maintenance coat and typically quiet nature make them easy companions in tighter living spaces. Beyond that, their gentle temperament allows them to blend harmoniously into the close-knit dynamics of apartment communities without tension.
Pomeranian
Pomeranians, with their compact size and buoyant personalities, are a fitting choice for renters. Their small stature makes them comfortable in limited spaces, and while they are energetic, their activity needs can often be met with indoor play and short walks. Additionally, their lively demeanor and affectionate nature bring warmth and vibrancy to any apartment, making them endearing companions in all urban settings.
Bichon frise
Bichon frise dogs excel in apartments due to their petite size and cheerful disposition. Their moderate energy levels can be easily managed with indoor play and brief outdoor walks. Their fluffy yet low-shedding coat is suitable for indoor environments, and their friendly and sociable nature ensures they integrate smoothly into apartment communities.
Find the right pup for your apartment
As curtains draw and lights dim in apartments everywhere, the presence of these pint-sized companions becomes profoundly felt. The best small dog breeds, with their endless affection and lively spirits, redefine apartment living.
They offer comfort in solitude, joy in small moments, and a steadfast friendship that turns every corner of an apartment into a realm of shared stories and cherished memories. In the embrace of these tiny wonders, one discovers the vast expanse of love and connection.
Already have the perfect pup but need the perfect place? Start your search with Rent. right here.
The chasm runs the full length of the condominium complex, from the shuttered tennis court to the shuttered pool. Measuring more than 500 feet long and 20 feet wide, the gash divides the complex in two, its weed-choked perimeter cordoned off with chain-link fencing. A grimy trickle of water oozes along the chasm’s concrete floor a dozen feet below, like some ugly open wound that just won’t heal.
Welcome to Coyote Village, a 70-unit condo complex in suburban La Habra whose residents have been living out a homeowner’s nightmare. Over the last four years, portions of the tree-lined greenbelt that once shaded the complex have violently collapsed into a concrete maw below. That’s because, unbeknownst to most residents, the greenbelt wasn’t built on solid earth. Running beneath it is a cavernous flood channel that decades ago was sealed with a concrete lid then topped with mounds of soil and landscaped with pine trees.
The first collapse of the concealed lid came in January 2019, when a section of the greenbelt near the tennis court caved in, exposing the flood channel below. The second implosion came in March, when heavy winter rains saturated the greenbelt and the concrete lid couldn’t handle the weight of the soggy soil and towering pines. This time, the collapse took out a huge swath of the greenbelt near the community pool.
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Most residents were shocked to learn that their complex was built on top of a private canal that plugs into Orange County’s larger Imperial Channel, which routes storm water out of La Habra, Brea and Fullerton. It stood as the only covered private channel in the county’s 380-mile public storm drain system.
And that “private” designation is where the residents’ encountered another chasm, in the form of a years-long legal battle.
After the 2019 collapse, the county did some cleanup work at the site and provided security fencing around the exposed portion of the channel. Following the March 15 collapse, La Habra brought in construction crews to excavate the channel, which at that point was clogged with dirt, tree limbs and concrete that the city worried would create a damming effect in the broader drainage system during future storms.
But the city’s work stopped there.
La Habra officials have argued since the first collapse that the channel belongs to the complex. And worse, that the channel’s concrete lid had been improperly covered with a breadth of landscaping that violated what had been approved in the city permitting process. According to the city, the homeowners association that represents Coyote Village is responsible for repairing and rebuilding the channel.
The Coyote Village Homeowners Assn. has challenged that stance in a running legal battle, started in 2020, contending the channel is integral to a larger public system and was damaged by public use without just compensation. It has sued the city, the county and the county flood control district, among others, for relief.
“While the conduit runs through the HOA property, the water is public,” said John Peterson, an attorney representing the homeowners group. “The public needs to share in the responsibilities.”
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State Sen. Josh Newman, a Democrat whose district encompasses La Habra, tried to broker a solution last summer and was able to secure $8.5 million in state funding to repair the flood channel. “The residents were wholly unprepared and financially unequipped to deal with this,” Newman said. “I was happy to secure those funds.”
But a year later, that money remains unspent.
La Habra initially questioned the propriety of expenditure, asking the state Atty. General’s Office if the allocation could be considered an improper gift of public funds. The state’s Legislative Counsel determined it was not. In the months since, the city and homeowners association have haggled over who would run the major construction project, with the HOA concerned it does not have the expertise and city officials reluctant to take charge of repairs on a canal they consider private property.
Residents have watched in a mix of frustration and resignation as the saga has unfolded.
Jan Duncan, an HOA board member, said she put her Coyote Village loft on the market in June and received six offers the first week. Then came questions about the flood channel and why it hasn’t been fixed in four years. In short order, every offer was rescinded.
“I cannot give buyers anything in writing to guarantee that this is going to be resolved,” she said. “Without that, they’re uncomfortable. I can’t blame them.”
Justin Marinello is among the parents in the complex who worry about the safety risk the exposed channel poses for children. His condo looks out on the gritty channel and his 4-year-old son had a front-row view of the city’s excavation work after the March collapse.
“My son enjoyed watching the construction because he likes giant Tonka toys playing with dirt,” Marinello said. “But it would be nice to be able to open the door up and just have some grass for him to run on.”
On the other side of the chasm, Lizeth Ruiz knew about the exposed channel when she moved to her condo in 2019 but figured it would be quickly repaired. Instead, she finds herself fending off mosquitoes that breed in the canal’s dingy water. “Now, I keep everything closed and have to be more mindful about wearing pants instead of shorts,” Ruiz said, holding her newborn baby tight.
As the summer heat soars, the concrete channel is lined with dry weeds that rise taller than the 6-foot safety fencing. The channel itself is defaced with graffiti. Residents continue to pay $390 in monthly homeowners fees even though the channel’s collapse has sidelined amenities like the tennis court and pool.
It marks a wrenching chapter in the life of a property with an eccentric history.
In mid-century La Habra, a ranch owner flooded a portion of the area to create a lake and islet, deemed “Monkey Island,” where he let feral monkeys roam free. He also eyed the land for a track that would host ostrich races. At the time, ostrich farms were a popular tourist attraction in Orange County.
Later, the lake was drained and La Habra city leaders opted to go a development direction they considered more forward-thinking, erecting a shopping plaza and post office on the site.
In 1978, developer Loren Hendrix proposed an adjacent 70-unit condominium complex, when such communities were still novel in Orange County as an affordable alternative to single-family homes. Without yards to maintain, he envisioned residents being able to stroll along a landscaped creek — a dressed-up version of the flood control channel that crossed the property — as a key selling point.
But Hendrix faced stiff questions from city staff about how he planned to protect children from hazards posed by the channel-turned-creek. Archival records show the county flood control district rejected Hendrix’s creek design. The district recommended design changes Hendrix considered too costly. Instead, the complex would host an enclosed flood channel masked with landscaping.
La Habra City Council members approved the development in April 1979 on the condition that Hendrix’s design be approved by the city’s chief building inspector and the county flood control district. A year later, the building inspector wrote that the complex was “substantially in compliance” with applicable codes. It’s not clear in county records whether the flood control district ever approved the design.
In any case, the condo development and greenbelt were built. And for 40 years, storm runoff flowed through the underground channel unbeknownst to most residents until the 2019 collapse.
La Habra city officials say the cave-ins are more about what was built on top of the channel than what lies below.
Deputy City Atty. Gary Kranker contends that at the time of the 2019 collapse the soil piled above the channel ran 9 feet deep — 6 feet more than the greenbelt design approved by the city — and that the pine trees that by then stood 80 feet tall contributed to the channel lid’s failure.
“It’s the obligation of the individual constructing the channel, or in this case, the channel roof, to make sure it was done properly,” he said. “Based upon the calculations that we have, it would have been done properly had it only had 3 feet of soil.”
And he faults the homeowners association for failing to take aggressive action to alleviate the risks between the first cave-in and the implosion in March. “To be quite candid, [they] did not do anything to try and alleviate this condition,” he said. “They could have hired someone to remove the soil, one wheelbarrow at a time.”
Last year, the homeowners association sued Hendrix, the complex developer, for fraud. The complaint alleged that he concealed the channel and any maintenance responsibilities from the association so he could sell condos “more quickly and at higher prices.” Peterson, the association’s attorney, said a settlement agreement compels Hendrix to find the insurance policies that covered the development and assign the rights over to the association.
Hendrix did not respond to requests for comment through his attorney.
Last week, representatives for the city and homeowners association said they were closing in on an agreement for moving forward with repairs that would free up the $8.5 million in state funding. Once a resolution is reached, the canal’s reconstruction is expected to take at least a year.
Roma Damo, who has lived at Coyote Village for 35 years, doesn’t see much light at the end of the tunnel — or flood channel, in her case.
“I’m seriously thinking about renting this condo out and getting myself an apartment,” said Damo, 88, eyeing the degraded channel outside her condo windows. “I don’t want to spend the rest of my life here looking at this.”
Gary Keller took to the stage at the 2023 Keller Williams Mega Agent Camp in Austin, Texas, Tuesday morning with his usual bravado: a black-and-white video featuring his favorite animal, the buffalo, in a thunderstorm, alongside a motivational message for agents. Rather than fear the storm, Keller Williams agents embody resilience and adaptability to conquer any market challenge. “We are the storm,” the text read.
Keller kicked off the first day of the two-day gathering by offering his take on the housing market and economic conditions. Despite persistent inflation challenges, a volatile mortgage market and limited inventory, Keller said it was still a good time to buy a house.
“It is always the right time to buy the right piece of real estate,” Keller, the executive chairman and founder, said. “Timing is a fool’s game.”
Instead of allowing homebuyers to be educated by “clickbaity” videos espousing an impending real estate crash, Keller told agents that they need to take charge of the narrative and be the ones out there educating consumers on their local housing market.
“Our goal is for you to always be the economist of choice in your local market,” Keller said.
Keller did acknowledge that it has been a slower year for the housing market and agents.
“Our industry is in a recession,” Keller said. “But my bet is that we are already close to the bottom of what the real estate market would do no matter what. I think we’re on Skid Row right now, so I don’t think it is going much lower.”
To illustrate his point, Keller highlighted that the industry is projected to see 4.3 million home sales this year, significantly down from the 6.12 million sales in 2021, but roughly the same as 2009 to 2012.
“If you look at the trend line, given the overall economy, there is not a whole lot of room to go, to get to the bottom,” Keller said. “Yeah, you could drop down to 3 million, but we haven’t seen that in 30 something years in what was a completely different setting than you are in now. In modern times I think that number is more around 4 million, so I don’t think we have anything shocking in the real estate space.”
Fewer overall transaction sides means the average number of sides per agent this year will come in at roughly 5.7 sides, however, the average market volume per agent is projected to come in at $1.44 million, the fifth highest year on record, he said.
Keller attributed this to the increase in median home sale price which is projected to come in at $382,000 for the year, 7% above the trend line of 4% annual increases.
“People say it is way overpriced, but it is not phenomenally overpriced,” Keller said. “The trend line goes up 4%, which is the expect annual appreciation of building a home. In 2006 we were 21% above the trend line and now we are only 7%. Think about it this way, if next year real estate holds, meaning that it doesn’t go up by 4% we are just barely above the trend line and if it drops by a percent then we would be only 2% above the trend line.”
In addition, Keller noted the wave of first-time Millennial homebuyers and move-up Millennial homebuyers who are hitting their peak earning years will be hitting the housing market in the next few years, giving agents more reasons for optimism.
Keller concluded the discussion by circling back to the opening mantra of “we are the storm.”
“If you do the work, you will have a great year in real estate, regardless of the market,” Keller said. “If you don’t do the work, and spend your time trying to avoid contact with people, you aren’t going to like this industry very much.”
A landslide struck Laguna Beach’s Bluebird Canyon in 1978 — smashing cars, buckling streets and destroying 24 homes. An adjacent swath of earth broke loose in 2005, wiping out 12 more homes.
That wasn’t enough to keep Scott Tenney away. In 2010, Tenney and his wife, Mariella Simon, bought a 15-acre hillside ranch near the disaster area despite the listing warning that the property was on the site of an ancient landslide.
“We knew we’d have to do a bit of terracing and retaining, but California is what it is,” Tenney said. “It’s a dynamic place not just culturally, but geologically.”
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From an outside perspective, his might seem a confounding decision. But in Southern California it’s an extremely common one, because that geological diversity, as Tenney calls it, is not just the danger. It’s the allure.
Elevation has long been aspirational here — an escape from the urban flats.
Since settlers first started pouring in from the relative flatness of the East Coast and Midwest, they were captivated by California’s vertiginous landscape. Plein air painters flocked to capture the light of the arroyos. Health seekers sought the clean air of the San Gabriel foothills. Folk rockers found inspiration in Laurel and Topanga canyons. And the moneyed elite started building their houses higher and higher above the basin, forever seeking the trophy perch with the show-off view.
But that perch has always come at the risk of catastrophe. Homes slide into a gulch in Palos Verdes. Fires roar over the Malibu hills. A debris flow kills 23 people and destroys 130 homes in Montecito. Heavy snow traps thousands in the San Bernardino Mountains. And winter storms pull fragile bluffs into a rising sea.
These natural disasters so often occur where the tectonic plates collided and folded into beautiful vistas.
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While other regions may face only one main disaster threat — tornadoes in the Midwest, hurricanes on the Gulf and East coasts — California’s extreme topography brings siege from all sides: the ocean, the trees and brush, the sky above and the ground below. And oftentimes, the most attractive areas are some of the most dangerous.
A land of disasters
More and more people are crowding into the Wildland Urban Interface — the zone of transition between unoccupied land and human development. It’s where properties mingle with undeveloped (and often steep) land, and it’s uniquely susceptible to natural disasters.
According to the U.S. Fire Administration, this area grows by 2 million acres a year as people fan out to the edges of wilderness in search of affordable houses, more space or simply a break from life in the city. And California holds more homes in this dangerous zone than any other state in the country.
And prices keep soaring. It doesn’t matter if a house sits on stilts on the side of a cliff, if it’s a landslide complex slowly sliding toward the sea, or if it’s predicted to be knee-deep in water in a couple of generations — there will always be a buyer.
As Californians flock to risky areas, disasters take a greater toll. Over the last decade, the state has experienced 20 disasters that each cost at least $1 billion in damage from flooding, wildfire and extreme heat. Those 20 alone combined for 783 deaths, according to National Centers for Environmental Information.
According to the real estate listing database Redfin, the trend is nationwide. Last year, the country’s most flood-prone, heat-prone and fire-prone counties all saw more people move in than out. Redfin researcher Sheharyar Bokhari blames one primary factor: the housing affordability crisis.
“L.A. and most other coastal cities are expensive. With remote work becoming more of an option, people are finding they can have more space and finally afford a home if they move to riskier areas,” he said.
Bokhari said another L.A.-specific factor is development — mainly that there’s not as much being built in the city compared to the more rural areas surrounding it.
He points to the Inland Empire, which is typically more affordable than L.A. County. In Riverside County, roughly 600,000 homes face a high risk of wildfire, the most of any of the 306 high-fire-risk counties in the country. Despite that, the county’s population grew by 40,000 over the last two years.
Even if experts — and common sense — say to stay away from certain areas, Bokhari said that won’t likely happen because local governments aren’t incentivized to push people out.
“These disaster-prone cities need revenue and people paying taxes,” he said. “They just claim that they’ll be more resilient and take more safety measures going forward,” he said.
Where else would I go?
Since moving onto the ancient landslide zone, Tenney and his wife founded Bluebird Canyon Farms, which offers workshops and grows food for local markets. His time is split between that and taming the erosion-prone land beneath the farm.
To combat sliding land, Tenney installed a gravity wall, 200 feet long and 9 feet tall, to retain the hillside. In addition to grading the terrain to make the slopes gentler, he added powerful drainage systems and timber-and-concrete cribbing to keep structures in place.
The work never stops, and Tenney keeps a monthly schedule to keep up with tasks. Clear brush in spring. Clean storm drains in September. Inspect terracing every few months.
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“You can run but you can’t hide,” he said, adding that urban centers such as L.A. have their own laundry lists of things to worry about: crime, homelessness, etc. “You won’t experience a wildfire in downtown L.A., but there are plenty of other things to be concerned with.”
Cribbing systems used by Tenney have become commonplace in Portuguese Bend, a small coastal community on the Palos Verdes Peninsula situated on a slow-moving landslide complex. Land moves up to 8 feet a year, and at that rate residents would rather ride the sliding earth toward the sea than sell and move somewhere else.
“I’ll be here until I can’t be here anymore. I’ll slide away with the land,” Claudia Gutierrez told The Times in July after a nearby landslide in Rolling Hills Estates sent a handful of homes careening down a canyon.
You’d think the real estate market in disaster-prone areas would eventually slow down, but there are no deals to be found for house hunters. Longtime residents often stay put post-disaster, and incoming residents consistently pay a premium to live in a scenic, though potentially dangerous, area.
In cities tucked among the foothills of the Verdugo and San Gabriel mountains such as Altadena and La Cañada Flintridge, buying in a high-fire-risk zone might be ever-so-slightly cheaper than buying in a safer place. And buyers pounce.
“My clients try to choose low-fire-risk zones, but if the house in the fire zone is the right price, that is more important,” said Brent Chang of Compass.
When Lisa and Michael McKean got home to Malibu Park from their honeymoon on Nov. 8, 2018, they were so exhausted that they went straight to sleep. The newlyweds didn’t even bother unpacking their suitcases of swimsuits still wet with Caribbean saltwater.
When they woke up, Lisa looked out her back window and saw a 10,000-foot cloud of billowing black smoke.
The Woolsey fire was ravaging the Malibu hills.
The pair grabbed their still-packed suitcases and fled to the Zuma Beach parking lot, where they spent the day surrounded by horses, dogs, cats and neighbors all wondering if their homes would survive.
Theirs, built a year earlier, did not.
“The entire neighborhood burned,” Lisa said. “Everything was black, scorched earth.”
Devastated, the pair spent six months crunching numbers on the cost of rebuilding versus moving. The home that was destroyed had taken four years to approve and three years to build. Their next one could take even longer.
Despite the damage, and despite the ceaseless, inescapable risk of a future fire, they ultimately decided to stay and rebuild.
Cheryl Calvert has lived in Malibu since 1985 and has adapted to a life of fire. To her, the flames are nearly routine.
“Once you make it through your first one, you realize it’s manageable. But you have to plan ahead,” Calvert said.
She keeps two bags packed at all times: one full of goggles and N95 masks and one with dog supplies.
Calvert has experienced plenty of fires during her time in the coastal community, but the worst was the Corral fire in 2007. She was in the driveway as the flames arrived, and she sprayed the corner of her wooden home with a hose as it ignited. Her guesthouse and garage burned down, but the house was saved.
She never considered leaving. Instead, she became more prepared, installing an extra water tank and leaving a pair of shoes by the front door at all times for quick escapes.
“We have to do crazy things, but it’s only crazy for an hour or two every five or 10 years,” she said.
She ran down the usual list of reasons why people move to Malibu: the beautiful landscape, the ocean breeze, the sweeping views. But she said the main reason her and so many of her neighbors stay is because of the community.
“We’re all living near like-minded people who are willing to risk themselves for each other,” she said. “It’s a bunch of hippies. Rich hippies.”
The psychology of staying
A life among the trees, coasts and cliffs is often what lures Californians to disaster-prone communities, but according to experts, the factors that make them stay after a disaster strikes are much more complicated.
Age, race and class can all indicate whether someone is more or less likely to move after experiencing a disaster. For example, Zhen Cong, professor of environmental health sciences at the University of Alabama at Birmingham, found that in the wake of tornados, the middle class might be the most inclined to move since the upper class has the resources to stay and rebuild, while the lower class is often trapped and has no other choice but to stay.
Other relocation factors include the level of damage to the home and whether the person owns the place or rents. But often the most important factor is one that can’t be easily quantified: “People who have a strong sense of place and a strong sense of community are less likely to move,” Cong said.
Ironically, some disasters can even encourage people who otherwise would have left to stay.
In studying post-tornado relocation decisions across the country, Cong found that after a disaster, people increase their disaster preparedness. Part of that includes gathering supplies, but it also includes social engagement: talking to neighbors, sharing information on social media and attending meetings. That engagement, which might not happen if a tornado doesn’t strike, brings a greater sense of community, leading people to stay in that community.
Anamaria Bukvic, an assistant professor at Virginia Tech who studies coastal hazards and population displacement, found that after Hurricane Sandy struck the East Coast in 2012, non-geophysical factors mattered the most in deciding whether to stay or leave. For example, confidence in adapting to future disasters was a more relevant indicator if someone would stay than how close they lived to the ocean.
“The experience of flooding can be emotionally disturbing and traumatic,” Bukvic said. “When facing problems, some people try to avoid them. Others try to resolve them.”
She added that confidence in government plays a major role as well. If a person believes the government responded well to the disaster and will keep them safe during the next disaster, they’re more likely to stay.
That’s something that Malibu Mayor Bruce Silverstein thinks about when overseeing the city’s disaster response plan. Although L.A. County is responsible for physically fighting the fires that plague the area, Malibu has instituted a free service in which residents can request a fire-hardening expert to inspect their property to better prepare them for the next blaze.
The city also outlaws certain types of vegetation susceptible to fire and tries to prevent excessive population growth in order to make evacuation from hills and canyons easier during emergencies. It’s the main reason accessory dwelling units (ADUs) are harder to build in Malibu than L.A.
“Unlike L.A., we don’t have standards that encourage growth,” Silverstein said. “We maintain the status quo and try to keep space between properties so if one catches on fire, it doesn’t extend to the neighbors.”
Michael Dyer, a former Santa Barbara County fire chief who now serves as public safety director for Calabasas, said safety became a top priority for the city after Woolsey, energizing the community into forming multiple volunteer commissions that plan for disaster preparedness.
“We have to provide that service as a government,” Dyer said while monitoring a brush fire in Topanga from his front porch. “No one has forgotten Woolsey yet. And as long as I’m here, we won’t.”
No simple fix
As the climate crisis worsens and the Wildland Urban Interface grows in size, experts are eyeing ways to mitigate the effects of natural disasters to save both the environment and human lives.
L.A. is currently considering an ordinance that would limit development in the Santa Monica Mountains. Using recent wildfires and the Rolling Hills Estates landslide as examples, supporters said the measure would make it harder to build mansions and large hillside homes as a way to limit damage caused by disasters, as well as protect open space and wildlife.
In addition, national insurers such as State Farm and Allstate are no longer selling insurance policies in wildfire-prone areas after a series of catastrophic fires raised premiums. Without insurance, people might be disincentivized from buying and building homes in risky areas.
Redfin is also tinkering with a way to warn people of a home’s potential dangers. The company conducted an experiment in which it showed a listing’s flood risk score to certain users but not others and found that those who were shown the scores were less likely to bid on the home.
The scores have since expanded to show risk for fire, heat, drought and storms.
In the meantime, Californians continue to build, and rebuild, in disaster-prone areas. Lisa and Michael McKean, whose home burned down in 2018, moved back into Malibu Park in 2021.
As neighbors slowly filter back into the neighborhood, they walk around to measure progress and congratulate those who have returned.
“We used to hate cement trucks and jackhammers, but now we celebrate them,” Michael said. “The cheery sound of construction.”