Musical preferences are subjective and vary from person to person, but there are a few specific genres such as country, rap, and metal which are pretty commonly disliked. These genres are criticized for being overly simplistic, repetitive, or aggressive; and though nobody likes every genre of musuci, here are some of the least-liked musical styles our friends on Reddit love to hate.
1. Country Rap
Country rap is a music genre that blends elements of country and hip-hop/rap music. But despite the innovation, many people find the combination of traditional country with modern hip-hop and rap vocals a little too jarring.
Manufactured, not Organic
One Redditor expressed displeasure by saying, “…Country Rap, hell no. Sounds like Frat Boy manufactured [stuff] that you can tell an exec was behind. Faker than every reality TV show. That would be like J Cole picking up a guitar or Kendrick moving down to Alabama. And honestly, County fans deserve better.”
2. Cloud Rap
Cloud rap is characteristically dreamlike, and relies heavily on ambient synthesizers, reverb, and delay effects. The lyrics focus on introspective themes, which can seem self-indulgent or lacking substance. The genre’s experimental nature and lack of emphasis on beats and bass lines may also not appeal to all listeners. Ultimately, it’s just a very unique and specific genre.
3. Black Metal
Black metal is a subgenre of heavy metal music known for its aggressive and fast-paced sound, distorted guitars, and shrieking vocals. It’s often unsettling with its themes of Satanism and nihilism. Black metal has faced criticism for association with things like church burnings. Despite this, black metal still has a dedicated following of fans who appreciate its raw and intense sound, provocative lyrics, and unapologetic attitude. Its influence on other subgenres of metal remains evident, however.
Slytherin in Real Life
One Redditor said, “Black metal. I like death metal, and regular old metal, but the bit of black metal I’ve heard just sounds like a bunch of dudes trying to roleplay as Slytherin or something.”
4. Mumble Rap
Mumble rap is a subgenre of hip hop that emerged in the mid-2010s, known for its heavy use of autotune and repetition, resulting in indistinct lyrics. Its lyrics often focus on materialism, drug use, and hedonism. While some appreciate its catchy beats and melody, others criticize it for lacking substance and creativity. Critics argue that mumble rap lacks the depth and artistic complexity that hip hop is known for, with repetitive lyrics and generic sounds.
5. Jazz
Jazz is a music genre that originated in Southern US African American communities in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. It’s distinguished by improvisation and syncopated rhythms. Jazz has evolved with the influence of cultural and social movements, and its history is rich with diverse styles and artists. Some find its slower pace and unconventional instrumentation challenging, but jazz has been incorporated into other genres with great success. While it’s important to recognize the cultural significance of jazz music, it’s just not for everybody.
Jazz feels like Panic
One Redditor said, “Jazz. Like the regular jazz. Lounge jazz, I don’t mind, but the regular stuff is just unorganised mess to me, and I’d describe it as an audible panic attack.”
6. Reggae
Reggae originated in Jamaica in the late 1960s. It is characterized by a strong rhythm from bass, drums, and guitar, along with the prominent use of an off-beat rhythm. Reggae lyrics often include social and political issues and messages of love and spirituality. Many genres, including Jamaican mento and ska and American R&B and soul have influenced reggae.
Angry by Association
Reggae music suffered a lull due to a lack of promotion, lack of support, and a lot of US and UK artists keep trying to imitate the genre.
One Redditor said, “Reggae. Worked at a sandwich deli for a summer, and that is all they would listen to. Now I am conditioned to get angry whenever I hear that accent.”
7. Nursery Rhymes
While nursery rhymes have been a staple of early childhood education and entertainment for centuries, they are not universally beloved. Some people find the repetitive nature of nursery rhymes tedious or the simple melodies and lyrics unappealing. Despite their historical and cultural significance, nursery rhymes are not immune to criticism or dislike. It is important to remember that nursery rhymes have brought joy and education to countless children and continue to be a valuable resource for early childhood development.
8. Acapella
Acapella music is a style of vocal music that relies solely on human voices to create melodies, harmonies, and rhythm. It has a long history dating back to ancient religious chanting and folk music traditions and has gained popularity in recent years with the rise of acapella groups and competitions. Despite its unique sound and style, some people may not appreciate acapella music. Nonetheless, acapella music remains a valuable and innovative form of vocal music that continues to captivate audiences around the world.
The dislike of music genres is subjective and varies from person to person. Despite criticism and personal preference, all genres have their unique cultural significance and lasting impact.
10 Crazy Good Movies Where Women Are the Bad Guys
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10 Crazy Good Movies Where Women Are the Bad Guys
15 Cover Songs that are Better than the Original
Sometimes, a cover of a song ends up doing far better than the original. Some covers are so good that we didn’t even realize the cover version wasn’t actually the original.
15 Cover Songs that are Better than the Original
10 Celebrities Who Are Universally Disliked
People will always have preferences and something to say about celebrities. What you might love may not be the same for others. Whether it’s about their past behaviors, legal issues, or feuds with other celebrities, here is a list of celebrities people just cannot stand.
10 Celebrities Who Are Universally Disliked
11 Vampire Movies That Will Leave You Yearning for More
Sometimes, we just love to watch a favorite vampire movie; one of the ones that never get old. It piques our imagination with the unknown, story of two teenagers fighting for their love, the incredible and creepy scenes, and the bloodsucking classics.
11 Vampire Movies That Will Leave You Yearning for More
25 Extraordinary Sequels and Remakes That Outshine the Originals
Every once in a while, a movie sequel or remake surpasses the original film. After polling the internet, “Name a single movie where the sequel or remake was better than the original?” Here are the top-voted responses.
25 Extraordinary Sequels and Remakes That Outshine the Originals
Betterment and Betterment are not only two of the most popular robo advisors in the industry, but they may very well be the most innovative in the field. Though they represent two of the first robo advisors, both have built out their platforms and now offer robust portfolio options and other services to their clients.
Though they each have their own nuances–and specializations–you really can’t go wrong with either platform. Each will take complete control of your portfolio, managing every aspect of it for a very low annual fee. When you sign up with either service, your only responsibility will be to fund your account on a regular basis.
But what if you’re either new to robo advisors or you’re considering a switch from another one? If you’re researching robo advisors, the information will inevitably lead to Betterment and Wealthfront. So let’s take a look at the two heavyweights in the robo advisor space and see which might be a better fit for your portfolio. Listen to the Podcast of this Article
About Betterment
Betterment is not only the original robo advisor, but its also the largest independent robo (along with Wealthfront), with $21 billion in assets under management. The company is based in New York City and began operations in 2008.
As a robo advisor, Betterment is an automated, online investment platform that handles all aspects of investment management for you. When you sign up for the service, you complete a questionnaire that will help determine your investment goals, time horizon, and investment risk tolerance. From that information, Betterment creates a portfolio of stocks and bonds to meet your investor profile.
They dont actually invest your money in individual securities, but instead through exchange-traded funds (ETFs), each representing a specific asset class. They can build an entire portfolio for you through about a dozen funds that will give you exposure to the entire global financial markets.
All this is done for a low annual management fee. Your only responsibility will be to fund that your account on a regular basis and let Betterment handle all the management details for you.
Better Business Bureau rates Betterment as A+, which is the highest rating in a range from A+ to F. The company also scores 4.8 stars out of 5 by more than 20,000 users on the App Store, and 4.5 stars out of 5 by more than 4,500 users on Google Play.
About Wealthfront
Wealthfront is, with Betterment, the largest independent robo advisor, and Betterment’s primary competitor. In fact, with over $24 billion in assets under management, its now slightly larger than Betterment. The company is based in Redwood City, California, and launched operations in 2011.
As a robo advisor, it works much the same as Betterment, creating a portfolio for you based on your answers to a questionnaire when you open your account. Wealthfront will also manage your account using a small number of ETFs spread across various asset classes. But on larger accounts, they’ll also add individual stocks to get greater benefit from tax-loss harvesting.
Like Betterment and virtually all robo advisors, Wealthfronts basic investment strategy is based on Modern Portfolio Theory (MPT), which emphasizes asset allocation over individual security selection.
Similar to Betterment, and really all robo advisors, your account will receive full investment management for a very low annual fee. Your only responsibility will be to fund your account on a regular basis.
Unfortunately, Wealthfront has a Better Business Bureau rating of F, due to unanswered complaints. However, the company gets 4.9 stars out of 5 from more than 9,000 users on the App Store, and 4.8 stars out of 5 by more than 2,700 users on Google Play.
Investment Strategies Betterment vs Wealthfront
Betterment Investment Strategy
Betterment offers two plan levels, Digital and Premium. Premium is available for minimum account balances of $100,000, while Digital is open to all account balances. Like many robo advisors, Betterment has evolved past building and managing a basic portfolio comprised of a mix of stocks and bonds.
For example, if you choose the Premium Plan, you’ll have access to live financial advisors. But there are many other services and plans to choose from.
Read More: Betterment Promotions
Basic portfolio mix
Your portfolio will be invested in as many as six stock asset classes/ETFs and eight bond asset classes/EFTs.
Stocks:
US Total Stock Market
US Value Stocks Large Cap
US Value Stocks Mid Cap
US Value Stocks Small Cap
International Developed Markets Stocks
International Emerging Markets Stocks
Bonds:
US High-quality Bonds
US Municipal Bonds
US Inflation-Protected Bonds
US High-Yield Corporate Bonds
US Short-term Treasury Bonds
US Short-term Investment-Grade Bonds
International Developed Markets Bonds
International Emerging Markets Bonds
Use of value stocks
Notice that three of the six stock asset classes involve value stocks. This is a specialization of Betterment and represents a time-honored stock market investment strategy. Value stocks are investments in companies with stock prices that are low in relation to their competitors by various standard measurements. But the companies are deemed to be fundamentally sound, and therefore likely to outperform the general market once the investment community realizes the true value of the stocks.
In this way, Betterment makes an attempt to outperform the general market, such as the S&P 500 or even some broader indices.
Smart Beta
This is another investment strategy Betterment uses with the potential to outperform the general market. This specific portfolio is managed by Goldman Sachs. Smart Beta is a form of active portfolio management, which seeks high-quality companies with low volatility, strong momentum, and good value.
Since its a higher risk/high reward type of investing, it requires a minimum portfolio of $100,000.
Socially responsible investing (SRI)
This is an investment option increasingly being offered by robo advisors. However, with Betterment only a portion of your portfolio will be invested in SRI. They replace the ETFs in the International Emerging Market Stocks and US Value Stocks Large Cap with ETFs that specialize in socially responsible investing in those sectors.
Learn More: The Pros and Cons of Socially Responsible Investing
Flexible Portfolios
If you want more control over your investment portfolio, you can choose this option. It allows you to adjust the individual asset class weights in your portfolio allocation. Its also designed for more advanced investors and gives you an opportunity to increase allocations in asset classes you believe are likely to outperform the market.
BlackRock Target Income
For investors looking for income and safety of principal, Betterment offers this portfolio, which consists of 100% of bonds. There is some risk of principal in this portfolio but it’s designed to be minimal. You can even choose the level of risk and return you want. It won’t provide the type of long-term gains you’ll get from a stock portfolio, but it will offer the kind of steady income that will work especially well for retirees.
Tax-loss Harvesting
Tax-loss harvesting is a year-end strategy in which asset classes with losses are sold (and later replaced with comparable ones) to offset gains in winning asset classes. The strategy helps to defer taxable capital gains on growing asset classes.
Betterment makes this strategy available on all account balances. However, it’s only offered on taxable accounts since it’s completely unnecessary for tax-sheltered retirement plans.
Betterment Everyday Cash Reserve
If you’re looking to add a cash option to your investment portfolio, you can do it through Betterment Cash Reserve. The account is eligible for FDIC insurance up to $1 million. The minimum deposit is $10, and offers unlimited transfers, both in and out of your account.
Betterment Checking
The Betterment Checking account gives you the flexibility to manage your money in a way that best fits your financial goals. You’ll get this account with a debit card and you can use it to pay in person or online. You’ll also get FDIC insurance on your money.
The Betterment Checking account is an innovative way to manage your money. It’s faster, more secure, and requires zero minimum balance requirements. You can now deposit checks using their streamlined mobile app. Just take a picture and deposit checks will be there for you on the other side.
Wealthfront Investment Strategy
Unlike Betterment, Wealthfront has a single plan for all investors, with an annual management fee of 0.25% on all account balances. And like Betterment, Wealthfront has expanded its investment options menu in many different directions.
Basic Portfolio Mix
Wealthfront uses 11 asset classes in the construction of its portfolios, including four stock funds, five bond funds, plus real estate and natural resources.
The allocation looks like this:
Stocks:
US Stocks
Foreign Stocks
Emerging Market Stocks
Dividend Stocks
Bonds:
Treasury Inflation-Protected Securities (TIPS)
Municipal Bonds (on taxable investment accounts only)
Corporate Bonds
U.S. Government Bonds
Emerging Market Bonds
Alternatives:
Real Estate
Natural Resources
Use of Alternative Investments
Wealthfront includes real estate and natural resources in its portfolio composition. The real estate sector invests in companies that provide exposure to commercial property, apartment complexes, and retail space. Natural resources are held in ETFs representing that sector.
The combination of the two offers a stronger diversification away from a portfolio comprised entirely of stocks and bonds, largely because they offer protection in an inflationary environment. It’s possible for these sectors to perform well when the general financial markets are not.
Smart Beta
The Smart Beta option attempts to outperform the general financial markets. The strategy deemphasizes market capitalization in the creation of a portfolio. For example, rather than using the capitalization allocations of certain companies within the S&P 500, the strategy might increase some allocations and decrease others. It’s more of an active investment strategy and requires a minimum investment portfolio of $500,000.
Wealthfront Risk Parity
This is another investment strategy for investors with larger accounts and a greater appetite for risk. Its been shown to provide higher long-term returns, but it may use leverage to increase those returns.
Stock-level Tax-loss Harvesting
Tax-loss harvesting is available on all taxable investment accounts. But Stock-level Tax-loss Harvesting is available to larger accounts to provide more aggressive tax deferral.
This is a fairly complex investment strategy, but it involves the use of individual stocks to take greater advantage of tax-loss harvesting. The use of individual stocks will make it easier to buy and sell securities to minimize capital gains taxes. Depending on the specific plan, the required minimum investment ranges between $100,000 and $500,000.
Wealthfront Path
This is a software-based financial advisory, providing you with financial planning tools. They can help you plan for retirement or saving for the down payment on a house or a college education for one or more of your children. The apps run what-if scenarios, that can make projections based on various savings levels for each of your specific goals.
Though it doesn’t offer live financial advice, the service is free to use.
Wealthfront Cash
You can open an interest-bearing cash account with Wealthfront Cash Account with just $1. There’s no market risk, no fees, unlimited free transfers, and your account is FDIC insured for up to $5 million. The account currently pays 4.30% APY and provides a safe, cash investment to go with your stock portfolios.
And now, Wealthfront Cash allows you to get your paycheck up to two days early when you set up a direct deposit. They’ve also implemented the ability for you to invest directly into the market within minutes, straight from your Wealthfront Cash account. That means you can get paid early and immediately invest – giving you about extra days of investing each year.
Read more: Wealthfront Cash Account review
Wealthfront Portfolio Line of Credit
Much like a home equity line of credit, the Wealthfront Portfolio Line of Credit is secured by your investment account. You can borrow up to 30% of the value of your account for any purpose. There’s no prequalification since the line of credit is completely secured by your investment account.
The line of credit is automatic if you have a non-retirement account balance of at least $25,000. You can request funds against the line on your smartphone and receive them in as little as one business day.
Current interest rates paid on the line range between 2.45% and 3.70% APR, depending on the size of your account.
Retirement Planning Betterment vs. Wealthfront
One of the most common uses of robo advisors is the management of retirement accounts. Both Betterment and Wealthfront can manage all types of IRA accounts, similar to the way they do with taxable accounts. But each also offers some level of retirement planning.
Read More: Best Robo Advisors Find out which one matches your investment needs.
Betterment Retirement Planning
Betterment is strong in this category because in addition to their regular portfolios, they also offer income-specific investment options, like their BlackRock Target Income and Everyday Cash Reserve. The Target Income option in particular focuses on maximizing interest income, which is exactly what most people are looking for in retirement.
One of the advantages Betterment offers is that you can connect your 401(k) with your investment account. Betterment cant manage the 401(k) (unless chosen to do so by your employer through their 401(k) management plan), but they can coordinate your Betterment retirement account(s) with the activity in your employer plan.
And of course, if you have at least $100,000 in your Betterment account, you can enroll in the Premium plan and have access to live financial advisors.
But Betterment also offers its Retirement Savings Calculator to help you know if you’re on track for your retirement. By answering just four questions, they’ll be able to determine if your current retirement plan will provide the income you’ll need in retirement, taking your projected Social Security income into consideration. If it isn’t, it’ll let you know how much more you need to invest on a regular basis.
Wealthfront Retirement Planning
You can take advantage of Wealthfront Path to help you with retirement planning. You’ll start by linking your financial accounts so the program can get a better understanding of your finances. Recommendations to help you reach your goals are made based on the amount of regular contributions you’re making and the income you will need in retirement.
Path will analyze your spending patterns, your average annual savings rate, the interest you’re earning on those savings, as well as your investment and retirement contributions. It will also analyze the fees you’re paying on your investment and retirement accounts. Loan accounts are analyzed as well.
The information is assembled, and future projections are made. You’ll be given advice on any needed increases in savings for retirement contributions, as well as asset allocations. And perhaps best of all, since all your financial accounts are linked to the service, it will provide continuous updates on your progress toward your retirement goals.
Betterment Pros & Cons
No minimum initial investment or account balance requirement.
Reduced fee structure on larger account balances.
Use of value stocks seeks to outperform the general market.
Unlimited access to certified financial planners on account balances over $100,000.
Comprehensive retirement planning package.
Limited investment diversification, excluding alternative asset classes, like real estate and natural resources.
The annual management fee rises from 0.25% to 0.40% if you select the Premium plan.
The reduced fee structure on large account balances doesn’t kick in until you reach a minimum of $2 million.
Wealthfront Pros & Cons
Your account includes alternative investments, like real estate and natural resources. This offers greater diversification than a portfolio invested only in stocks and bonds.
The minimum initial investment is just $500. That’s not zero, but it’s an amount most small investors can comfortably start with.
Flat-rate fee of 0.25% on all account balances.
Larger accounts get the benefit of more efficient tax-loss harvesting strategies through Wealthfront Risk Parity.
The Wealthfront Portfolio Line of Credit lets you borrow up to 30% of the value of your non-retirement accounts at very low interest and with no credit check.
There’s no reduced management fee for larger account balances.
The retirement planning tool (Path) is an automated system and does not provide advice from live financial advisors.
Poor rating from the Better Business Bureau.
Bottom Line
We’ve covered a lot of territory and details in this side-by-side comparison of Betterment vs Wealthfront. The summary table below should help you to be able to compare the various services each offers with a quick glance.
Category
Betterment
Wealthfront
Minimum initial investment
Digital: $0 Premium: $100,000
$500
Promotions
Up To 1 Year Free
First $5,000 Managed Free
Management fees
Digital: 0.25% up to $2 million, then 0.15% above Premium: 0.40% to $2 million, then 0.30%
0.25%
Available accounts
Individual and joint taxable accounts; traditional, Roth, rollover and SEP IRAs; trusts and nonprofit accounts
Individual and joint taxable accounts; traditional, Roth, rollover and SEP IRAs; trusts and 529 accounts
Rebalancing
Yes
Yes
Dividend reinvestment
Yes
Yes
Tax-loss harvesting – on taxable accounts only
Yes
Yes
Socially-responsible investing
Yes
Available through Smart Beta ($500,000 minimum) and Stock-level Tax-Loss Harvesting ($100,000 minimum)
Smart Beta investing
Yes
Yes, minimum $500,000
Interest bearing cash account
Yes
Yes
Line of credit
No
Yes
Financial advice
Yes, on Premium Plan only
Automated only
Mobile app
Yes
Yes
Customer service
Phone and email, Monday through Friday, 9:00 am to 6:00 pm Eastern time
Phone and email, Monday through Friday, 10:00 am to 8:00 pm Eastern time
You’ve probably already guessed were not declaring a winner between these two popular roboadvisors. Both are first rate and you can’t go wrong with either. More than anything, your decision will likely come down to specific details–what features and benefits one offers that better suits your own personal preferences and investment style.
But one advantage that’s undeniable with both Betterment and Wealthfront is that not only is each a first-rate service, but they provide enough investment options and related services that they can accommodate your growing financial capabilities and needs well into the future.
For example, while you may start out with a basic managed portfolio, you’ll eventually want to get into higher risk/higher reward options as your wealth grows. As well, you’ll like the flexibility of having high-interest cash investment options, as well as low-cost or free financial or retirement advice.
We like both these services and are certain you can’t go wrong with whichever one you choose.
Betterment Cash Reserve Disclosure – Betterment Cash Reserve (“Cash Reserve”) is offered by Betterment LLC. Clients of Betterment LLC participate in Cash Reserve through their brokerage account held at Betterment Securities. Neither Betterment LLC nor any of its affiliates is a bank. Through Cash Reserve, clients’ funds are deposited into one or more banks (“Program Banks“) where the funds earn a variable interest rate and are eligible for FDIC insurance. Cash Reserve provides Betterment clients with the opportunity to earn interest on cash intended to purchase securities through Betterment LLC and Betterment Securities. Cash Reserve should not be viewed as a long-term investment option.
Funds held in your brokerage accounts are not FDIC‐insured but are protected by SIPC. Funds in transit to or from Program Banks are generally not FDIC‐insured but are protected by SIPC, except when those funds are held in a sweep account following a deposit or prior to a withdrawal, at which time funds are eligible for FDIC insurance but are not protected by SIPC. See Betterment Client Agreements for further details. Funds deposited into Cash Reserve are eligible for up to $1,000,000.00 (or $2,000,000.00 for joint accounts) of FDIC insurance once the funds reach one or more Program Banks (up to $250,000 for each insurable capacity—e.g., individual or joint—at up to four Program Banks). Even if there are more than four Program Banks, clients will not necessarily have deposits allocated in a manner that will provide FDIC insurance above $1,000,000.00 (or $2,000,000.00 for joint accounts). The FDIC calculates the insurance limits based on all accounts held in the same insurable capacity at a bank, not just cash in Cash Reserve. If clients elect to exclude one or more Program Banks from receiving deposits the amount of FDIC insurance available through Cash Reserve may be lower. Clients are responsible for monitoring their total assets at each Program Bank, including existing deposits held at Program Banks outside of Cash Reserve, to ensure FDIC insurance limits are not exceeded, which could result in some funds being uninsured. For more information on FDIC insurance please visit www.FDIC.gov. Deposits held in Program Banks are not protected by SIPC. For more information see the full terms and conditions and Betterment LLC’s Form ADV Part II.
DoughRoller receives cash compensation from Wealthfront Advisers LLC (“Wealthfront Advisers”) for each new client that applies for a Wealthfront Automated Investing Account through our links. This creates an incentive that results in a material conflict of interest. DoughRoller is not a Wealthfront Advisers client, and this is a paid endorsement. More information is available via our links to Wealthfront Advisers.
“Combined with our capital, it will make us one of the best-capitalized players in the marketplace,” Garg told MPA in an interview via Zoom. “It will allow us to continue to double down on ‘one day mortgage’ which has become our flagship product, greater access to capital and something we’re really excited about being able … [Read more…]
When it comes to buying a home, most individuals choose to purchase something already on the market. However, in some situations, it can sometimes be advantageous to buy raw land and have a home built for you from the ground up.
For instance, in a seller’s market when there aren’t too many homes on the market but a huge demand for home purchases, you can bypass the costly process of haggling with sellers and paying way above the asking price for a home. And, of course, you’ll get to design a home that’s exactly the way you want it.
CNBC Select rounded up four of the best construction loan lenders to consider if you’re thinking of building a brand-new home or doing a major renovation of your existing home. We evaluated lenders based on a number of factors including the types of loans offered, customer support and others (see our methodology below).
Best construction loan lenders
Best for in-person service
TD Bank Mortgage
Annual Percentage Rate (APR)
Apply online for personalized rates; fixed-rate and adjustable-rate mortgages included
Types of loans
Fixed-rate, adjustable-rate mortgage, jumbo loans, construction-to-permanent loan, VA loan, FHA loan, medical professional mortgage
Terms
Up to 30 years
Credit needed
Not disclosed
Minimum down payment
Options as low as 3%
Pros
Carries loan option that allows for a slightly smaller downpayment at 3%
Has both online and in-person service
Online support available
Mobile app available
Refinance options available
Cons
Doesn’t offer USDA loans
Who’s this for? TD Bank is a household name in the banking industry, even calling itself “America’s Most Convenient Bank.” In addition to offering service online and through a mobile app, TD Bank has over 1,100 physical branches throughout the U.S., making it an ideal lender for those who prefer an in-person process.
This lender offers what’s known as a construction-to-permanent loan option. This means that your construction loan converts into a regular mortgage upon completion of the build. This loan option is typically advantageous for many aspiring homeowners since you only have to submit one application and pay one set of closing costs.
TD Bank’s construction loan has fixed-rate and adjustable-rate options and can be used for primary residences of 1 to 4 units and for second or vacation homes.
Best for loan variety
Flagstar® Bank
Annual Percentage Rate (APR)
Apply online for personalized rates; fixed-rate and adjustable-rate mortgages included
Types of loans
Conventional loans, FHA loans, VA loans, USDA loans, jumbo loans, adjustable-rate mortgages, construction loans, professional loans and Community Loans
Terms
8 – 30 years
Credit needed
Minimum down payment
0% if moving forward with a USDA loan
Pros
Offers a wide variety of loans to suit an array of customer needs
Fixed-rate and adjustable-rate mortgages available
Borrowers who qualify for a jumbo loan can apply for up to $3 million
Has an online process but also in-person branches
Cons
Home equity loans are only available in limited geographic areas
Who’s this for? Flagstar Bank offers a couple of different construction loan options: It offers a renovation loan, a construction draw and a one-close construction loan. The renovation loan is meant for those who are purchasing a property that needs significant repairs; instead of applying for two loans (a mortgage and a separate renovation loan) this option lets you roll both expenses into one loan. This way, you’ll pay just one set of closing costs and have just one monthly payment.
The construction draw option lets you pay only interest during the phase where your home is being built (the build must be completed within 12 months, though). Once your build is complete, you’ll need to apply for a mortgage to cover the principal payments plus the monthly interest. This is called an end loan. With this option, you’ll have to submit more than one application and pay more than one set of closing costs.
With the one-close construction loan, you’ll pay interest during the home’s building phase (similar to the construction draw option) except your construction loan will convert to a traditional mortgage upon completion of the build. This means you only have to submit one application and pay one set of closing costs.
Best for a longer construction period
Citizens Bank Mortgage
Annual Percentage Rate (APR)
Apply online for personalized rates; fixed-rate and adjustable-rate mortgages included
Types of loans
Fixed-rate mortgage, construction loans
Terms
15 – 30 years
Credit needed
Not disclosed
Minimum down payment
Not disclosed
Pros
0.125% mortgage rate discount available to existing customers in New Hampshire, Vermont, Massachusetts, Rhode Island, Connecticut, New York, New Jersey, Delaware, Pennsylvania, Ohio and Michigan
Has both online and in-person service
Online support available
Cons
Mortgage rate discount isn’t available in all states
Who’s this for? Citizens Bank offers a construction-to-permanent loan option, which means borrowers will only submit one application and pay for one set of closing costs. But the most appealing feature of this loan is that borrowers can take up to 18 months to complete construction on their homes. Typically, construction loan lenders only allow borrowers 12 months to finish construction, so the extra time allows your project to recover from any snags in the plan or delays.
For your permanent financing, you can choose from fixed or adjustable-rate options.
Best for lower credit scores
Cardinal Financial Mortgage
Annual Percentage Rate (APR)
Apply online for personalized rates; fixed-rate and adjustable-rate mortgages included
Types of loans
Conventional loan, FHA loan, VA loan, USDA loan, jumbo loans and construction loans
Terms
Not disclosed
Credit needed
Minimum of 550 for some loan types
Minimum down payment
Not disclosed
Pros
Wide variety of home loan options
More accessible loan options for borrowers with low credit scores
Online support available
Down payment assistance available in all 50 states
Cons
Doesn’t offer HELOC’s
Who’s this for? Cardinal Financial is an online lender that boasts low credit requirements for its various home loan options. According to one blog post on the company’s website, it accepts credit scores as low as 550 for VA and FHA loans. FHA loans typically require a credit score of at least 580. Jumbo loans typically have a credit score requirement of 700 but Cardinal Financial considers jumbo loan applicants with a minimum credit score of 660.
This lender offers construction loans for both home renovations and brand-new home construction.
FAQs
What is a construction loan?
A construction loan is a short-term loan that can be used to cover the cost of building a brand-new home. Typically, the funds get disbursed in increments as the home-building project progresses, and the construction must be completed within 12 months.
This option can be ideal for individuals who want a home that’s extremely customized to their liking, but the process can often be very costly since you’ll need to purchase land to build on.
How do construction loans work?
Once you’re approved for a construction loan, the funds get disbursed to your checking account incrementally as your construction progresses. An appraiser will usually check in during different stages of the build to approve more fund disbursements for you.
During the building stage, you’ll typically only pay interest on the loan. Once the build is complete, the loan converts to a traditional mortgage (if you choose a construction-to-permanent loan) and you make payments toward both principal and interest. If you chose a construction-only loan, you’ll need to apply for a separate mortgage (called an end loan) to pay off the principal on the construction loan, or you can pay the principal off out of pocket in one lump sum.
What is the best credit score for a construction loan?
Most lenders consider a credit score of at least 680 for a construction loan. Some may actually require a minimum of 720. As with any other form of credit, though, a higher credit score means you’re more likely to get approved for your desired funding amount. Plus, you’ll be able to qualify for some of the lowest interest rates offered by the lender.
If your credit score isn’t yet considered to be in a healthy range, it’s recommended that you take steps to improve your score before submitting loan applications.
What is the difference between a construction loan and a regular loan?
A construction loan is used to finance the cost of a property that hasn’t been built yet. A regular or traditional mortgage is used to purchase an existing property. Construction loans are also meant to be short-term loans, lasting only up to 12 months before you’ll have to conclude your build and convert the loan into a traditional mortgage. Regular mortgages, though, are long-term loans, which are typically meant to be paid off in as little as 10 years and as long as 30 years.
Will I pay a fixed rate on my loan?
Various lenders offer both fixed-rate and adjustable-rate loans for new builds. Once you lock in a rate for the construction phase of the project, that same rate typically carries over into the traditional mortgage payment phase as long as you choose a fixed-rate loan.
Can you act as your own general contractor/builder?
Construction loans require a licensed contractor or builder to carry out the construction phase (plans for the home and for the contractor must be confirmed and submitted before you can be approved for a loan). If you are not a licensed contractor, you cannot act as your own general contractor for the construction of your home.
Bottom line
Building a home can be a very exciting but taxing process, especially since construction loans can sometimes be tougher to come by. Still, borrowers should do their homework to make sure they agree with all the terms set forth by a lender and that the loan they ultimately go with is best for their needs.
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Our methodology
To determine which construction loan lenders are the best, CNBC Select analyzed dozens of U.S. mortgages offered by both online and brick-and-mortar banks, including large credit unions, that come with fixed-rate APRs and flexible loan amounts and terms to suit an array of financing needs.
When narrowing down and ranking the best construction loans, we focused on the following features:
Fixed-rate APR: Variable rates can go up and down over the lifetime of your loan. With a fixed rate APR, you’ll lock in an interest rate for the duration of the loan’s term, which means your monthly payment won’t vary, making your budget easier to plan.
Types of loans offered: The most common kinds of construction loans include construction-to-permanent loans, construction-only loans and renovation loans. Having more options available means the lender can cater to a wider range of applicants.
Fees: Common fees associated with mortgage applications include origination fees, application fees, underwriting fees, processing fees and administrative fees. We evaluate these fees in addition to other features when determining the overall offer from each lender. Though some lenders on this list do not charge these fees, we have noted any instances where a lender does.
Flexible minimum and maximum loan amounts/terms: Each mortgage lender provides a variety of financing options that you can customize based on your monthly budget and how long you need to pay back your loan.
No early payoff penalties: The mortgage lenders on our list do not charge borrowers for paying off the loan early.
Streamlined application process: We considered whether lenders offered a convenient, fast online application process and/or an in-person procedure at local branches.
Customer support: Every mortgage lender on our list provides customer service via telephone, email or secure online messaging. We also opted for lenders with an online resource hub or advice center to help you educate yourself about the personal loan process and your finances.
Minimum down payment: Although minimum down payment amounts depend on the type of loan a borrower applies for, we noted lenders that offer additional specialty loans that come with a lower minimum down payment amount.
After reviewing the above features, we sorted our recommendations by best for in-person service, loan variety, a longer construction period and lower credit scores.
Note that the rates and fee structures advertised for mortgages are subject to fluctuate in accordance with the Fed rate. However, once you accept your mortgage agreement, a fixed-rate APR will guarantee your interest rate and monthly payment remain consistent throughout the entire term of the loan, unless you choose to refinance your mortgage at a later date for a potentially lower APR. Your APR, monthly payment and loan amount depend on your credit history, creditworthiness, debt-to-income ratio and the desired loan term. To take out a mortgage, lenders will conduct a hard credit inquiry and request a full application, which could require proof of income, identity verification, proof of address and more.
Catch up on CNBC Select’s in-depth coverage of credit cards, banking and money, and follow us on TikTok, Facebook, Instagram and Twitter to stay up to date.
Editorial Note: Opinions, analyses, reviews or recommendations expressed in this article are those of the Select editorial staff’s alone, and have not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any third party.
You may have noticed that the Republican presidential candidates are starting to up the ante ahead of the 2024 elections, with one man leading the way in the polls. But with that in mind, the White House issued a statement on Wednesday expressing concern over former President Donald Trump’s proposal to implement new tariffs on all foreign imports, asserting that such a move would adversely affect American working families, disrupt the economy, and contribute to inflation.
According to reports, Trump convened a meeting with his key economic advisors at his private golf club in New Jersey last Wednesday, dedicating two hours to outline an economic plan with a focus on trade for his potential 2024 presidential campaign. This initiative was detailed in an article by the Washington Post on Tuesday.
During the meeting, one of the proposals discussed was Trump’s intention to establish a comprehensive baseline tariff on nearly all imports to the United States, should he be reelected, as outlined in the report.
In response to these developments, White House spokesperson Andrew Bates remarked, “Combining a sweeping tariff tax on the middle class with more trickle-down tax welfare for rich special interests would stifle economic growth and fuel inflation,”
Bates emphasized that President Biden is firmly opposed to such a strategy, citing concerns that it would result in elevated prices and increased inflation. The Biden administration remains committed to collaborating with international allies to address “trade abuses committed by countries like China.”
Brokerages often have promotions for new account sign ups. Most also have commission free trades and a full spectrum of investment options.
Depending on how much you have to invest you could get a bonus up to $10,000.
Best Brokerage Promotions
M1 Finance – Earn Up to $10,000
M1 Finance will give you up to $10,000 for opening an investment account. Your bonus amount depends on the amount you deposit.
A deposit of $50,000 – $249,999 will get you a bonus of $250
A deposit of $250,000 – $499,999 will get you a bonus of $1,000
A deposit of $500,000 – $999,999 will get you a bonus of $2,000
A deposit of $1,000,000 – $1,999,999 will get you a bonus of $4,000
A deposit of $2,000,000+ will get you a bonus of $10,000
Unlike a lot of brokers on this list, retirement accounts are not included in this promotion.
M1 Finance uses preset portfolios known as “pies.” You can choose premade pies or you can set up your own. Each investment of the pie is set a percentage of your portfolio and as investments are made to the account they are distributed based on asset allocation. So, if one of your “slices” is less than the preset your new investment will buy more of that slice to bring it up to its appropriate percentage allocation.
Offer ends 3/31/2023
Get started with M1 Finance here. Or read our full review of M1 Finance.
E*trade – Earn Up to $3,500
With E*Trade new customers can earn up to $3,500 depending on how much you have to deposit. To qualify, you must make the deposit within 60 days of opening the account and use promo code BONUS23.
A deposit of $5,000 – $19,999 will get you a bonus of $50
A deposit of $20,000 – $49,999 will get you a bonus of $100
A deposit of $50,000 – $99,999 will get you a bonus of $200
A deposit of $100,000 – $199,999 will get you a bonus of $300
A deposit of $200,000 – $499,999 will get you a bonus of $600
A deposit of $500,000 – $999,999 will get you a bonus of $1,200
A deposit of $1,000,000 – $1,499,999 will get you a bonus of $2,500
A deposit of $1,500,000+ will get you a bonus of $3,500
Existing customers can also get in on the action.
A deposit of $500,000 – $999,999 will get you a bonus of $600
E*Trade doesn’t have any account minimums to open or account maintenance fees. They also have $0 commissions for online domestic stocks, ETFs, and mutual funds. There is a fee for options that is between 50 and 65 cents depending on your trading volume. Bonds are $1 and futures are $1.50.
Offer ends 4/18/2023
Get started with E*Trade here. Or read our full review of E*Trade.
Charles Schwab – Earn Up to $1,000
Charles Schwab will give you up to $1,000 for opening a new investing account. The catch is that you’ll need to be referred to Schwab by a current client. If you know someone who is already using Schwab they will need to send you a link you can use that will qualify you for the bonus.
Also, how big your bonus will be depends on how much you deposit into the account.
A deposit of $25,000– $49,999 will get you a bonus of $100
A deposit of $50,000 – $99,999 will get you a bonus of $300
A deposit of $100,000 – $499,999 will get you a bonus of $500
A deposit of $500,000+ will get you a bonus of $1,000
To receive the offer you will need to make the deposit to the account within 45 days of account opening.
Charles Schwab has $0 commission online trades for stocks and ETFs. Options are 65 cents per contract. There are no account minimums to open but you’ll need to deposit at least $25,000 to receive a bonus.
Get started with Charles Schwab here. Or read our full review of Charles Schwab.
JP Morgan Self-Directed Investing – Earn Up to $700
You can get up to $700 by opening a self-directed brokerage account with JP Morgan. How much you’ll receive depends on how much you deposit into the account:
A deposit of $10,000 – $24,999 will get you a bonus of $50
A deposit of $25,000 – $99,999 will get you a bonus of $150
A deposit of $100,000 – $249,999 will get you a bonus of $325
A deposit of $250,000+ will get you a bonus of $700
You will have to fund the account within 45 days of opening and keep the account funded for 90 days to qualify. The money needs to be “new” to JP Morgan and Chase to qualify.
You can open a taxable investment account or either a Traditional or Roth IRA.
JP Morgan offers commission-free online trades and a wide variety of investments including stocks, ETFs, mutual funds. They also offer options which are charged 65 cents per contract.
Offer ends 4/13/2023
INVESTMENT AND INSURANCE PRODUCTS ARE: NOT A DEPOSIT • NOT FDIC INSURED • NO BANK GUARANTEE • MAY LOSE VALUE
Get started with JP Morgan here.
Merrill Edge – Earn Up to $600
At Merrill Edge you can get up to $600 by opening a new self-directed brokerage account or IRA. The amount of your bonus depends on how much you deposit into the account.
A deposit of $20,000 – $49,999 will get you a bonus of $100
A deposit of $50,000 – $99,999 will get you a bonus of $150
A deposit of $100,000 – $199,999 will get you a bonus of $250
A deposit of $200,000+ will get you a bonus of $600
To receive your bonus, you’ll need to make your deposit within 45 days of account opening and then maintain that balance for at least 90 days. The money you deposit has to be “new” money to Merrill Edge which includes money that is currently with Bank of America or a 401(k) that is currently managed by Merrill Edge.
Merrill Edge has $0 stock and ETF trades. Options are 65 cents per contract.
Also, funds in your Merrill Edge account go towards your status as a Bank of America Preferred Rewards member, which gives you preferred pricing on many of their products. You can learn more about the Preferred Rewards program here.
Get started with Merrill Edge here. Or read our full review of Merrill Edge.
Fidelity Investments – Earn $100
With the Fidelity you can earn $100 just by depositing $50 within 15 days of opening the account. Use code FIDELITY100 when signing up to qualify.
There are five account options included in this promotion.
The Fidelity Account
The Fidelity Account is Fidelity’s brokerage account. There are $0 commissions for online US stock, ETF, and option trades.
Investment choices include both domestic and international stocks, ETFs, options, over 3,700 mutual funds, bonds, CDs, and precious metals. It even allows margin borrowing and extended trading hours.
The vast majority of Fidelity’s mutual funds do not have any transaction fees and they even offer a few funds that have no fees at all, not even management fees. These fee-free funds are called Fidelity ZERO funds.
You can also buy fractional shares in your brokerage account. This is a great feature for those who want to own a piece of a company but don’t have the funds to buy a whole share.
Fidelity Cash Management Account
The Fidelity Cash Management Account works similar to a checking account but it keeps the funds in your Fidelity account for easy access when you are ready to invest.
Your funds are FDIC insured and you can access them all the ways you would normally use your money in checking account, including debit card, online bill pay, paper checks, and online transfers.
Your balance also earns a competitive interest rate so it will work as a savings account as well.
Fidelity Starter Pack
The Fidelity Starter Pack comes with both The Fidelity Account and the Fidelity Cash Management Account.
Neither account has fees or minimum balances to open, keep in mind to get the $100 bonus you’ll need to deposit $50 within the first 15 days.
In the brokerage account there are $0 commission for online US stock, ETF, and option trades. The cash management account is similar to a checking account, the cash is available for easy investing but it is also available for easy spending and is FDIC insured.
Traditional and Roth IRAs
Both Traditional and Roth IRA’s also qualify for the $100 promotion. These are both retirement accounts, but they are taxed slightly differently. When you make contributions to a Roth you contribute after tax money, meaning you don’t get a tax break when you contribute, but you can make tax free withdrawals. So, your money grows tax free.
With a Traditional IRA you make pre-tax contributions but are taxed on all the money when you withdraw in retirement.
Within these accounts you will have access to the full suite of investments offered through Fidelity.
Here’s more information about how IRAs work.
Get started with Fidelity here. Or read our full review of Fidelity here.
Webull – Earn Up to 12 Free Fractional Shares
You can earn two free fractional shares just by opening a Webull brokerage account. Then deposit any amount of money into the account for an additional ten free fractional shares.
Which shares you get will be determined at random, but all companies are listed on the NYSE or NASDAQ and have at least $20 billion capitalization and have share prices between $3 and $3,000. You will most likely receive between $3 and $30 worth of stock. Once the shares are issued you have 30 days to claim them.
Webull offers commission-free trades and no minimum deposit is required to open an account – although you will need to make a deposit to qualify for your bonus. They offer fractional shares, crypto, ETFs, options, OTC, and paper trading.
Offer ends 3/31/2023.
Get started with Webull here. Or read our full Webull review.
Robinhood – Earn Up to $200 in Free Stock (But Probably $5)
With Robinhood you can earn a free stock by opening an investment account and linking your bank account.
Once you are set up you will receive a “specified amount” that you can use to choose a fractional share of from a list of 20 S&P 500 companies. Your bonus amount will range between $5 and $200 — but most likely between $5 and $10.
New Robinhood customers are eligible, but existing customers can also claim the bonus if they refer a new customer to Robinhood. You can sell the free stock after three days but you can’t withdraw the cash for 30 days. You can use it to reinvest in something else if you’d like.
Robinhood’s key feature is no fees. They don’t even have fees on options which most brokerages charge for. Robinhood offers stocks, ETFs, crypto, and trading on margin.
Get started with Robinhood here. Or read our full review of Robinhood.
Betterment – Up to One Year Free
Betterment is a popular robo advisor offering up to one year free depending on how much you deposit into your new account.
A deposit of $15,000 – $99,000 will get you 1 month free
A deposit of $100,000 – $249,999 will get you a bonus of 6 months free
A deposit of $250,000 will get you a bonus of 1 year free
You must deposit the funds within one month of account opening; does not apply to crypto.
So, in order to get the full year free, you have to deposit at least $250,000 to your account. However, that’s a substantial savings when you consider even the 0.25% annual management fee.
Get started with Betterment here. Or read our full review of Betterment.
What is a Brokerage Account?
A brokerage account is a type of investment account that allows individuals to buy and sell various securities, such as stocks, bonds, mutual funds, exchange-traded funds (ETFs), options, and more. The account is managed by a brokerage firm or financial institution, which acts as an intermediary between the investor and the securities markets.
When an investor opens a brokerage account, they deposit funds into the account, which they can then use to buy securities. The brokerage firm will typically charge fees for each transaction made in the account, which can include commissions, fees for account maintenance, and other charges.
Brokerage accounts can offer a range of features and benefits depending on the firm or institution that manages them. For example, some accounts may provide access to research and analysis tools to help investors make informed investment decisions, while others may offer margin trading, which allows investors to borrow funds to make larger trades.
How to Choose a Brokerage Firm
Choosing a brokerage firm or platform that meets your needs can be an important decision when it comes to managing your investments. Here are some factors to consider when choosing a brokerage firm or platform:
Fees: Look for a firm that charges competitive fees for trades, account maintenance, and other services. Some firms may offer commission-free trades, which can be an attractive option for frequent traders.
Investment products: Consider the range of investment products offered by the firm, including stocks, bonds, ETFs, mutual funds, and other securities. Make sure the firm offers the products you want to invest in.
Research and tools: Look for a firm that provides access to research and analysis tools to help you make informed investment decisions. These tools may include market data, stock analysis, financial news, and more.
Trading platform: Consider the trading platform provided by the firm, including its ease of use, features, and functionality. Some platforms may offer advanced tools and customization options, while others may be more streamlined and user-friendly.
Customer support: Look for a firm that provides responsive and helpful customer support, whether it’s through phone, email, or live chat. Make sure the firm has a good reputation for resolving issues quickly and efficiently.
Security: Consider the security measures taken by the firm to protect your account and personal information, such as two-factor authentication, encryption, and other security features.
All the platforms in this article are reputable, safe, and have low fees.
What is the Minimum Deposit to Open a Brokerage Account?
The minimum deposit required to open a brokerage account can vary depending on the brokerage firm or platform you choose. Some firms may not require a minimum deposit at all, while others may require several thousand dollars or more.
In general, discount brokers and online platforms tend to have lower minimum deposit requirements than full-service brokers.
Also, keep in mind that to receive the brokerage account bonus, you will have to meet the minimum deposit requirements. While there may not a minimum deposit required to open the account, there will be one to qualify for the bonus.
Are Brokerage Account Bonuses Taxable?
Yes, brokerage account bonuses are generally considered taxable income and must be reported on your tax return. Make sure to consult with a tax professional to understand the tax implications of any brokerage account bonuses you receive.
Final Thoughts
Choosing a place to invest your money is going to depend on a variety of factors including how much money you have to invest, how much investing experience you have and the type of investments you are looking for. You want to make sure your choice is the best fit for your financial situation so be sure to check out our list of Best Online Discount Brokers for 2023 for additional options.
“The first few years, my children were still young and under 16, so I did not do it full time,” she said. “I would do a loan for family members, but not go out marketing myself as fully doing the job. It took me probably two or three years.” Broumand noted she didn’t get into … [Read more…]
The co-owners of a Yakima-based online business offering home décor, gifts and other hosting and kitchen items have opened a brick-and-mortar location in Glenwood Square.
Lexi Borton and Morgan Robinson began their online Table Envy “tablescape” rental business in 2020, just as the COVID pandemic shifted many gatherings from public places to private homes. It provided the items and décor necessary to host parties and other events.
That business led to Tavolo Shoppe, which offers many of the Table Envy rental items for sale. Those include charcuterie boards, dough boards, glassware, linens and pantry items.
Borton said other popular items at Tavolo, the Italian word for “table,” include candles, ceramics, spices and pillows.
After establishing Tavolo online in October, a physical location in Glenwood Square became available. The shopping center at 5110 W. Tieton Drive in Yakima is housed in a refurbished fruit warehouse and includes several restaurants, stores and services such as beauty salons.
“We love this space. We feel like it really fits our style,” Borton said of the Glenwood Square building. “Being in a place with a lot of restaurants and retail businesses has been fun. It allows us to meet a lot more people.”
Tavolo opened its Glenwood Square location in mid-June and is located on the first floor in Suite 220, immediately inside Entrance 1 on the west side of the building. It is open noon to 6 p.m. Tuesdays through Fridays and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturdays. Call 509-206-8766 or visit tavoloshoppe.com for more information.
After a demanding day, the allure of a tranquil bath is undeniable – bath bombs, candles, a drink in hand – but most traditional tubs fall short in offering the deep immersion you truly crave.. That’s where garden tubs come in – grand in size, increasingly sought after, and designed to redefine relaxation.
In this Redfin, we’ll explore how garden tubs can turn your bathroom into a peaceful, spa-like getaway. We’ll look at their designs, the benefits they offer, and how to integrate them into your space.Whether you’re considering installing one in your Louisville home, your condo in Sacramento, or are just curious about this luxury amenity, join us as we dive into all things garden tubs.
What is a garden tub?
Garden tubs, a staple of upscale bathrooms, offer a luxurious and relaxing soaking experience. These tubs are designed for comfort and spaciousness, providing ample room to stretch out and unwind after a long day. Often oval or rounded in shape, a garden tub stands as a freestanding centerpiece in your bathroom. Garden tubs also often come with various features such as jets for hydrotherapy, creating a spa-like environment within the confines of your own home.
Where does the name garden tub come from?
The name “garden tubs” might evoke images of lush outdoor settings, but their name actually stems from their intended purpose. Originally, garden tubs were used as indoor fixtures that could accommodate potted plants, creating a serene and natural ambiance reminiscent of a garden. Over time, this concept evolved, and while the plant aspect may have taken a back seat, the idea of a tranquil and spacious retreat remains.
What are garden tubs made of?
Garden tubs can be constructed from a variety of materials, each offering its own unique blend of durability and aesthetic appeal. Common materials include acrylic, fiberglass, and porcelain-coated steel. These materials are chosen for their ability to retain heat, ensuring your relaxing soak lasts as long as you desire. Modern garden tubs can also feature innovative materials like stone composites or even wood, which adds a touch of natural elegance to the bathroom.
How big is a garden tub?
Garden tubs typically measure around 60 inches in length, 42 inches in width, and 24 inches in height. However, the size can vary depending on the manufacturer and design. The spacious dimensions of garden tubs contribute to the comfort and luxury they offer, allowing you to stretch out and fully enjoy your bath.
How many gallons of water does a garden tub hold?
A standard garden tub typically holds between 100 and 150 gallons of water. These larger-than-average tubs are designed for luxurious soaking experiences and are popular in bathrooms where space allows for a more spacious bathing area. The exact capacity can vary based on the tub’s dimensions and depth.
Pros and cons of having a garden tub in your home
Pros
Spaciousness: Garden tubs are designed to be larger than standard tubs, allowing for a comfortable and immersive soaking experience.
Luxurious design: These tubs often come with elegant features such as built-in seating, armrests, and hydrotherapy jets.
Relaxation: The generous size and optional jet systems make garden tubs a perfect choice for a relaxing soak after a tiring day.
Cons
Space requirements: Garden tubs tend to be larger, requiring a spacious bathroom for installation.
Water usage: Due to their size, these tubs require more water to fill, which can lead to increased water consumption.
Installation challenges: The larger size and weight of garden tubs might necessitate professional installation, adding to the overall cost.
“Garden tubs are a great fit for certain bathrooms and are especially valuable for couples with kids or homeowners who really want to enjoy a nice soak,” says Brian Horton of Simplicity Bath & Shower. “On the flip side, these large tubs occupy a significant portion of your bathroom’s overall footprint, and require significant water to fill up, which can be taxing for smaller home water heater capacities. Before we suggest a bathroom remodel with this type of tub, we make sure to discuss the pros and cons of garden tubs with our clients.”
Garden tubs vs. standard tubs
Distinguished by their larger dimensions and greater depth, garden tubs facilitate full-body immersion, enabling a truly indulgent soak. Their freestanding design often incorporates elegant shapes and styles, making them a centerpiece in bathrooms that exudes both opulence and comfort. They also often come with features like jets for hydrotherapy, creating a personalized spa-like environment. Standard tubs, while more compact and suitable for smaller spaces, might not offer the same level of relaxation and comfort as garden tubs.
A final note on garden tubs
In conclusion, garden tubs provide an opulent and tranquil bathing experience, offering ample space and relaxation features. With a range of materials and designs available, these tubs cater to various tastes while delivering a lavish escape within the confines of your own bathroom.
Are you dreaming of settling down in a charming small town? Look no further – in this article, we’ll take you on a journey through some of the most delightful small towns in Texas, each with its unique character and attractions. From affordable living to picturesque landscapes, these towns have something special to offer.
We’ll explore their median sale prices and Walk Scores, giving you a glimpse into their real estate market and walkability. Join us as we uncover the beautiful towns of Sweetwater, Tuscola, Baird, and many more.
1. Sweetwater, TX
Median Sale Price: $300,000
Walk Score: 51
Nestled in the heart of West Texas, Sweetwater boasts a perfect blend of small-town charm and vibrant community life. Sweetwater is known for hosting the largest Rattlesnake Roundup in the world, an event that draws visitors from all over the country. If you’re a history buff, don’t miss the Pioneer City County Museum, where you can delve into the region’s rich past. Enjoy a leisurely stroll through Newman Park, or satisfy your sweet tooth with a visit to a local bakery.
Homes for sale in Sweetwater, TX
Apartments for rent in Sweetwater, TX
2. Tuscola, TX
Median Sale Price: $275,325
Walk Score: 31
Tuscola is a small town that exudes tranquility. The scenic views and open spaces make it a perfect place for nature lovers. Take a leisurely hike in Jim Ned Creek Park, and you’ll find yourself immersed in the beauty of the Texas countryside. Tuscola is known for its friendly residents who warmly welcome newcomers. Be sure to explore the local shops and savor some homestyle Southern cuisine at the charming restaurants.
Homes for sale in Tuscola, TX
Apartments for rent in Tuscola, TX
3. Baird, TX
Median Sale Price: $330,000
Walk Score: 42
Baird is an attractive option for homebuyers seeking an affordable place to live in Texas without compromising on comfort. Baird’s pride lies in its memorable architecture and rich history, evident in the Baird Railroad and Historical Museum. For nature enthusiasts, Bonham Park is a great spot for a family picnic or a relaxing afternoon. With a welcoming community that embraces its past while moving towards the future, Baird embodies the true spirit of Texas hospitality.
Homes for sale in Baird, TX
Apartments for rent in Baird, TX
4. Potosi, TX
Median Sale Price: $408,000
Walk Score: 5
This small town in Texas offers a slice of countryside living. Although the Walk Score of 5 indicates a car-dependent lifestyle, residents here relish the tranquility and open spaces that the town provides. Potosi is a paradise for those who love the outdoors, surrounded by picturesque landscapes and scenic trails. Enjoy a day at the Possum Kingdom State Park, where you can swim, hike, or simply bask in nature’s beauty. This town may be off the beaten path, but its charm is seen throughout the community.
Homes for sale in Potosi, TX
Apartments for rent in Potosi, TX
5. Bellaire, TX
Median Sale Price: $1,200,000
Walk Score: 67
Bellaire effortlessly blends urban sophistication with suburban tranquility. The Walk Score of 67 is a testament to the town’s pedestrian-friendly streets, encouraging residents to explore its diverse dining and shopping options. Known for its top-rated schools and lush green parks, Bellaire is a haven for people seeking a vibrant community with a strong focus on education and recreation. Don’t miss out on the charming Bellaire Town Square, where locals gather for various events and festivities throughout the year.
Homes for sale in Bellaire, TX
Apartments for rent in Bellaire, TX
6. Southside Place, TX
Median Sale Price: $1,725,000
Walk Score: 85
From cozy coffee shops to high-end boutiques, Southside Place caters to a diverse range of tastes and preferences. Take a leisurely stroll through the immaculately maintained streets, and you’ll be charmed by the town’s architectural beauty. Southside Place is known for its strong sense of community, where neighbors come together for social gatherings and local events. For those seeking a sophisticated and upscale lifestyle, Southside Place is the epitome of refined living.
Homes for sale in Southside Place, TX
Apartments for rent in Southside Place, TX
7. Hedwig Village, TX
Median Sale Price: $1,560,000
Walk Score: 67
Hedwig Village is known for its excellent schools and friendly environment, making it a great place to settle down. For a delightful afternoon, head to the Hedwig Village Park, where you can enjoy a picnic and watch children play. With a welcoming atmosphere and a myriad of recreational opportunities, Hedwig Village is an inviting destination for those seeking a balance between luxury and community life.
Homes for sale in Hedwig Village, TX
Apartments for rent in Hedwig Village, TX
8. Galena Park, TX
Median Sale Price: $184,000
Walk Score: 35
Galena Park is dotted with parks and green spaces that make it a fantastic place for residents to enjoy outdoor activities. Explore the Galena Park Historical Museum, which showcases the town’s rich history and cultural heritage. The annual Galena Park Ole-Tyme Festival is a celebration of the town’s vibrant spirit, bringing together locals and visitors for a weekend of fun and festivities. Galena Park may be small, but its big heart makes it a wonderful place to call home.
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9. Bishop, TX
Median Sale Price: $176,000
Walk Score: 33
This small town is renowned for its annual Cotton Festival, where visitors can experience the region’s agricultural heritage through parades, pageants, and more. Bishop’s warm climate makes it an ideal location for outdoor activities like fishing, hiking, and birdwatching. Experience the joy of small-town living in Bishop, where neighbors become lifelong friends.
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10. Agua Dulce, TX
Median Sale Price: $105,000
Walk Score: 22
Agua Dulce is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, offering ample opportunities for horseback riding, hiking, and stargazing. Visit the Agua Dulce Vineyards for a taste of locally produced wine or explore the nearby Lake Corpus Christi State Park for a day of water-based fun. Agua Dulce’s friendly community and serene environment create an idyllic setting for those seeking a slower pace of life.
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11. Balch Springs, TX
Median Sale Price: $255,500
Walk Score: 52
Balch Springs prides itself on its strong sense of community, with numerous events and gatherings throughout the year. Visit the Balch Springs Historical Park to learn about the town’s past and its cultural significance. Outdoor lovers will enjoy the area’s lush green spaces, providing the perfect backdrop for picnics, sports, and family gatherings. Balch Springs embodies the essence of small-town charm with all the amenities and conveniences of modern living.
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12. Lancaster, TX
Median Sale Price: $288,000
Walk Score: 39
Lancaster, offers a thriving community with a rich historical heritage. Explore the Historic Town Square, where you’ll find charming boutiques, restaurants, and art galleries. The Lancaster Community Park offers a range of amenities, including playgrounds, sports fields, and walking trails. Lancaster is known for its commitment to the arts, with local theaters and community events celebrating creativity and culture. Discover the warmth and vibrancy of Lancaster, where past and present seamlessly coexist.
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13. Hutchins, TX
Median Sale Price: $281,000
Walk Score: 43
Hutchins provides an affordable living option close to the bustling city of Dallas. The Walk Score of 43 suggests a car may be necessary for daily errands, but the town’s proximity to major highways makes commuting a breeze.
Spend a relaxing afternoon at Grimes Park, or explore the nearby Trinity River Audubon Center, home to diverse wildlife and stunning landscapes. Hutchins offers the perfect balance between city conveniences and small-town charm, making it an attractive destination for those seeking a suburban lifestyle.
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14. Duncanville, TX
Median Sale Price: $340,000
Walk Score: 84
Duncanville is home to numerous parks, ensuring that residents have ample opportunities for outdoor recreation. The city’s vibrant downtown district boasts an array of shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions. Duncanville’s commitment to community engagement and its focus on arts and culture make it a truly special place to call home.
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15. Highland Park, TX
Median Sale Price: $2,610,000
Walk Score: 33
This town’s exquisite architecture and lush landscapes make it a picturesque retreat. Highland Park is known for its affluent community and proximity to Dallas’ cultural and recreational offerings. Visit the Dallas Country Club for a round of golf or unwind at the Katy Trail, a popular spot for joggers and cyclists. The town’s commitment to preserving its natural beauty and architectural heritage has earned it a reputation as one of Texas’ most prestigious communities.
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Wrapping up the small towns in Texas
From the tranquil charm of Sweetwater to the luxurious allure of Highland Park, these small towns in Texas have something for everyone. Whether you seek affordable living, close-knit communities, or upscale amenities, these towns offer a diverse range of experiences. Embrace the unique character and attractions of each town, and you’ll discover the true essence of Texas hospitality.