wellness Archives - Page 14 of 53

Apache is functioning normally

September 7, 2023 by Brett Tams

College is an exciting time: You’re surrounded by new people, new opportunities, and a chance to dive into the next chapter of your academic career. But this transition also comes with different financial realities—and the need to develop new skills around spending and saving money.

Along with navigating your new campus and sharpening your study skills, there’s another key lesson to learn: how to create a college student budget. When done right, a budget can help you limit debt, build some savings, and accomplish your goals. Need to make sure you have enough for textbooks, rent, food—and some left over for a little fun? Want to spend a semester abroad? Creating a college student budget can help with these goals and more.

Whatever financial issue is giving you trouble, Katie Waters, CFP®, founder of a financial planning firm, has tips for how to set yourself up for success. Here’s how to get started.

Assess your income and expenses

As you begin building your college student budget, you first need to figure out how much money you have coming in and how much you have going out. You can use anything from a simple spreadsheet to a budgeting app to track your income and expenses.

How should students pay for monthly expenses? Start by writing down all the sources of after-tax money you get each month, Waters says. That includes money from a part-time job, financial aid, stipends, grants, loans, or a monthly allowance from your parents.

Next, figure out how much you’re spending each month. Waters recommends looking back at three months’ worth of your expenses. To do that, refer to your debit and/or credit card statements, plus any record of money sent through payment apps.

You should account for every dollar you’ve spent, Waters says, separating expenses into common categories such as:

Cell phone
Food
Entertainment (movies, fun with friends, streaming services)
Clothing
Internet
Transportation (airfare, bus tickets, car insurance, gas)
Tuition
Room and board or rent
Textbooks and school supplies

The point is to add up everything, Waters says. “We want a line item for it all.”

If you’ve gotten this far and you already realize that your expenses weigh in heavier than your income, consider ways you could start giving your income a leg up. Check out these tips to help you make money as a college student.

Create your college student budget

Making and following a college student budget is the best way to ensure you have enough money to pay for the things you need while still having some money left over for the things you want. Here’s how to budget as a college student:

1. Create your spending categories.

Your budget should contain categories for all your major spending groups. (Refer to the list of expenses you created when assessing your expenses.) Then decide how much you must spend for each and assign a dollar amount or percentage to that category.

2. Choose a type of budget.

There are different budgeting styles, and Waters notes that one might fit your specific situation better than another. You could try the 50/30/20 rule, which allocates 50% of your money toward needs (food, textbooks, tuition); 30% toward wants (entertainment, clothing); and 20% toward savings.

You can also go with the envelope system, which involves setting aside a limited amount of money for each spending category. Once you hit the limit in a given category by running through money in its envelope—whether literal or digital—you can’t spend any more in that category until the next budget period begins.

3. Optimize your budget regularly.

Once you’ve set a budget, keep track of it. If you’re consistently under or over, see if there are areas where you can save more or spend less. As your needs change, so should your budget.

Checking with cash back and no monthly fees

Discover Bank, Member FDIC

Prioritize essential expenses

Whichever kind of college student budget you choose, make sure necessities such as your tuition payment (if you’re paying for school yourself) or things like bus fare to get to your part-time job are covered. To make that easier, Waters says you can find ways to reduce your expenses, such as:

Renting, borrowing, or buying used textbooks
Buying snacks in bulk or cooking meals that are large enough that you’ll have leftovers
Asking for student discounts when shopping in person or looking for online discounts
Opening a cash back checking account or using a cash back rewards credit card to earn rewards¹ for purchases you already make.

Focusing on what you must pay for first can help to lessen the debt you acquire, Waters says. Bonus: If you can do that, you’ll also reduce the amount of interest you’ll have to pay while in school or after you graduate.

Manage your fixed and variable expenses

Certain expenses, such as your cell phone or car insurance bill, typically stay the same every month. Those are fixed expenses. Variable expenses include costs that can change from month to month, like food, gas, or entertainment, depending on your behavior. Variable expenses can be tougher to budget for, but they can also provide more flexibility to your budget.

The envelope budget method can help you learn to budget more accurately for variable expenses when making a college student budget. For example, let’s say you spent $140 dining out in month one, $175 in month two, and $120 in month three. Take the average of the three—$145—and set that as your “dining out” monthly line item that you shouldn’t exceed.

“The biggest ‘don’t’ for college students is saying yes to everything,” according to Waters. Instead, it’s important to set limits. “Get to know your town and find ways to hang out that are free or low cost.”

Save for emergencies

College might not seem like a natural time to save money, especially if you’re not making much to begin with—but it can be done. And saving money will be a critical skill you can continue to use throughout your life.

Often, the easiest way to save is to make it automatic, Waters says. You can automate your savings by opening a savings account and setting up regular transfers from your checking to your savings account. You can choose how much is socked away based on a percentage of your income, as with the 50/30/20 rule, or you can set aside a chunk of your remaining balance at the end of each month.

It’s also important to try and build an emergency fund, even if it’s small, Waters says. An emergency fund is money you use for unexpected expenses—think paying to fix a flat tire, covering medical bills, or repairing a malfunctioning laptop. A good goal for the amount to save in an emergency fund is three to six months of your expenses. That might sound like a lot, but you can build your savings slowly over time.

Waters notes that a savings account or emergency fund is also a great place to stash cash you weren’t expecting to receive—like birthday money from Grandma. Think of it this way: If you save $25 a week, in just six months, you’ll have saved $600. This is also a great chance to learn how to invest as a college student. By keeping your savings or emergency fund money in a high-yield savings account, you can watch how your savings grows over time with interest.

Start building your financial foundation today

Once you’ve set a budget that you feel comfortable with, make sure to regularly check in with yourself about your spending. One trick that’s great for budgeting for college students is a financial checklist, which helps you look closely at your spending habits and whether your needs have changed. Earning more or less money, a change in your rent, or a tuition hike can make it necessary to reassess your budget and tweak as needed, Waters says.

College can be the perfect time to start your financial future off on the right foot. Things like building credit, saving for retirement, and creating a thriving savings account all come from making the right choices early—and regularly. Getting a handle on your finances in college with a college student budget is one of the best first steps you can take.

Creating a budget and learning to manage your finances as a college student can put you in a stronger financial position when you graduate. Here are some of the first steps you can take to ensure your long-term financial wellness.

Articles may contain information from third parties. The inclusion of such information does not imply an affiliation with the bank or bank sponsorship, endorsement, or verification regarding the third-party or information.

¹ ATM transactions, the purchase of money orders or other cash equivalents, cash over portions of point-of-sale transactions, Peer-to-Peer (P2P) payments (such as Apple Pay Cash), online sports betting and internet gambling transactions, and loan payments or account funding made with your debit card are not eligible for cash back rewards. In addition, purchases made using third-party payment accounts (services such as Venmo® and PayPal®, who also provide P2P payments) may not be eligible for cash back rewards. Apple Pay® is a trademark of Apple Inc. Venmo and PayPal are registered trademarks of PayPal, Inc. Samsung Pay is a registered trademark of Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. Google, Google Pay, and Android are trademarks of Google LLC.

Source: discover.com

Apache is functioning normally

September 6, 2023 by Brett Tams

Like many tech workers, Jing Guo and Gabriel Taylor Russ left Chicago during the COVID-19 pandemic in search of warmer weather.

“We were working remotely,” Guo says of their move to the Bay Area. “We thought ‘at least we can be outside.’”

However, a few months after settling in, the couple realized how difficult it would be to buy a home in San Rafael, where housing inventory is low and the median home price is around $1.4 million. “It was just too expensive,” says Russ, 37, a director of engineering for Ritual Wellness.

A tiny vestibule created inside the front door adds order.

(Mariah Tauger / Los Angeles Times)

It’s not like they were being picky, either. They didn’t want a modern house or something that was move-in ready. They simply wanted to find a house with character that they could make their own.

“Our dream was to own our own home and design it our way,” says Guo, 33, who works as a product designer for Two Chairs, a mental health company.

As self-proclaimed nomads — Russ is originally from Australia and Guo immigrated to Chicago from China when she was 12 — they decided to look in Los Angeles, where they could continue to enjoy the outdoors.

The Eagle Rock home before it was remodeled.

(Precision Property Measurements)

But they quickly learned that Los Angeles is no different from the Bay Area: When they bid on a home in South Pasadena, theirs was one of 63 offers.

“We were outbid by $200,000,” Russ says of the bidding war, shaking his head. “And we bid over the asking price just like everyone else.”

So when their real estate agent sent them a listing for a bungalow in Eagle Rock that needed work, the couple fell in love with the 1923 home’s Spanish architecture.

The quiet tree-lined street near Occidental College contributed to the bungalow’s charm. Although the listing described the house as needing “a little polishing” — a euphemism for remodeling — the couple saw great possibility. “I told our realtor while FaceTiming, ‘This is it!’” said Guo. “When you know, you know.”

The Eagle Rock house met the couple’s requirements: It had character, needed to be updated and had the potential for an accessory dwelling unit, or ADU, to add value to the property.

The ADU was designed to complement the main house’s Spanish architecture. Right, the one-car garage before it was turned into an ADU. (Mariah Tauger / Los Angeles Times; Precision Property Measurements)

The living room inside the ADU.

(Mariah Tauger / Los Angeles Times)

This time, their offer of $1,025,000 was accepted after only three others bid on the house.

When they saw the house in person, however, they realized how much work would be required before they could move in.

“We had to hire someone to rip out the urine-soaked flooring from the previous tenants’ cats,” Guo says, wrinkling her nose as she recalled the aroma. “But the only way we could afford to renovate the house was to live in it first.”

Architect Barrett Cooke added 100 square feet to the front of the house to enlarge the living room and brighten the interiors.

(Mariah Tauger / Los Angeles Times)

The narrow living room, before it was remodeled.

(John Christopher)

With temporary flooring in place, the couple moved in and learned there was no working heat. The kitchen range wasn’t functional. Cooking on a hot plate with renovations on the horizon, Guo says they felt like they were camping in the house.

After living in the house for a year, they hired architect Barrett Cooke of Arterberry Cooke to help them rethink the bungalow and turn the one-car garage into a tenant-friendly ADU on a budget of $230,000.

“The house needed some love,” Cooke said diplomatically, “but we worked with the existing details and tried to enhance what was already there.”

Cooke added an arch in the ADU in keeping with the main home’s Spanish architecture. Right, the custom-made front door of the main home. (Mariah Tauger / Los Angeles Times)

The kitchen and dining room of the main house open to a front porch that overlooks the park-like front yard.

(Mariah Tauger / Los Angeles Times)

Although living in the house before renovating it could have been better, it ultimately helped the couple rethink the interiors. “We realized the living room was too small and the lighting was bad,” Guo says.

When it came time to renovate the 1,258-square-foot house, the couple says Barrett and contractor Antonio Blanc stayed true to the footprint — with one exception.

“We added 100 square feet to the front of the house and raised the roof in the living room,” Cooke says. “That completely transformed the function of the house.”

Cooke also removed the wall between the kitchen and dining room to create an open living area and added skylights in the hallway, brightening the dark interiors.

The kitchen and living room of the ADU.

(Mariah Tauger / Los Angeles Times)

Jing Guo and Gabriel Taylor Russ chose simple, durable materials for the ADU’s kitchen.

(Mariah Tauger / Los Angeles Times)

A set of black aluminum-clad French doors off the dining room let in further sunshine and provide easy access to a new front porch.

“We wanted to orient the house so that their yard space was the front yard,” Cooke says. The porch maximizes the views toward the street and the front yard’s park-like setting. “People often want to connect the kitchen to the backyard,” Cooke explains, “but that wasn’t an option with a small yard and ADU in back.”

In a move that transformed the front of the house and added curb appeal, Cooke relocated the front door from the middle to the side, just off of the porch. She also installed arched doorways and windows that emphasize the home’s Spanish architecture.

In the open living area, European French oak engineered hardwood floors contribute to the home’s clean look. A vestibule with a bench and coat rack at the entrance to the living room adds order and feels like a private space.

The entryway of the ADU.

(Mariah Tauger / Los Angeles Times)

The bedroom of the ADU features room for side-by-side closets and a desk.

(Mariah Tauger / Los Angeles Times)

The bathroom in the ADU features simple subway tile. (Mariah Tauger / Los Angeles Times)

“I’m naturally anxious,” Guo says, appreciating the home’s soothing interiors. “I need a house where I can feel calm.”

When it came to transforming the one-car garage, Cooke designed the 480-square-foot ADU to correspond to the architecture of the main house with a similar roofline, red tile awnings and black aluminum-clad windows.

“It’s very clean and simple,” Cooke says. “The two structures play off each other quite nicely.”

Like the main house, Cooke raised the ceiling of the original garage to bring in more light.

Steps from a charming entry where guests can store their shoes, coats and laptops, the main living area has a living room and full kitchen with simple white subway tile and custom mint green cabinets.

The bedroom has enough room for a desk and plenty of storage courtesy of side-by-side closets. To accommodate long-term tenants, Cooke installed a washer and dryer in the pass-through bathroom, which connects the bedroom to the living area and kitchen.

Jing Guo and Gabriel Taylor Russ inside the kitchen of the main house.

(Mariah Tauger / Los Angeles Times)

The couple rents the ADU as a furnished midterm rental, which generally lasts three to nine months, for approximately $4,000 monthly. “We were always banking on the ADU for its earning potential,” Russ says.

Now that the finishing touches are complete, the couple loves the results: a character home that has been beautifully remodeled to honor its Spanish heritage and an ADU that covers their construction loan.

Over the last few years, the couple went from living in a construction zone in a new city with few friends to hosting Dungeons & Dragons game nights in their elegant, sun-filled dining room.

On a sunny day earlier this month, they took a break from their Zoom meetings and sat outside on their new patio.

As neighbors walked by and said hello, the couple discussed future home improvements, including landscaping, in the shade of a majestic Chinese elm in the front yard.

“I’m so excited to hang out here,” Guo says. “I still can’t believe we live here.”

The two homes exude peace and calm.

(Mariah Tauger / Los Angeles Times)

Source: latimes.com

Apache is functioning normally

September 5, 2023 by Brett Tams

Will Grimes closed 34 deals as a new real estate agent without buying any leads. On today’s Real Estate Rockstars, we dissect a different approach to winning business as a new Realtor. Listen and learn how Will won dozens of new clients via social media and his simple, authentic approach to SOI. Plus, you’ll hear how to create content that converts, get tips on building a real estate brand, and more.

Listen to today’s show and learn:

About Will Grimes [1:36]
How inexperience can be a blessing [4:10]
Why Will decided to get into real estate [8:32]
Eliminating distractions to ensure success [13:16]
Running a business based solely on SOI [17:06]
Creating content as you close deals [22:42]
What all Realtors need to understand [26:54]
Will Grimes’ YouTube course for Realtors [31:47]
Advice on building a real estate brand [34:17]
How to ensure your real estate content converts [36:39]
Creating CTAs for your content [39:45]
How real estate marketing differs from traditional marketing [41:34]
The next step for Will Grimes: coaching [48:08]
Where to find and follow Will Grimes [51:38]

Will Grimes

Will Grimes is the Owner of a Top 1% National real estate company, for Berkshire Hathaway. He is Owner/host of the “DayOneDollarZero” podcast. Prior SOCOM Marine. Will is an experienced Director Of Operations with a demonstrated history of working in the health wellness and fitness industry. He is skilled in Law Enforcement, Leadership, Business Development, Fitness, and Fitness Training. Strong operations professional graduated from Metropolitan State University of Denver.

Related Links and Resources:

It might go without saying, but I’m going to say it anyway: We really value listeners like you. We’re constantly working to improve the show, so why not leave us a review? If you love the content and can’t stand the thought of missing the nuggets our Rockstar guests share every week, please subscribe; it’ll get you instant access to our latest episodes and is the best way to support your favorite real estate podcast. Have questions? Suggestions? Want to say hi? Shoot me a message via Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, or Email.

-Aaron Amuchastegui

Source: realestaterockstarsnetwork.com

Apache is functioning normally

September 4, 2023 by Brett Tams

In our latest real estate tech entrepreneur interview, we’re speaking with Marshall Beck from BrokerAssist. He’s a recent addition to the Geek Estate Mastermind.

Who are you, and what do you do?

Marshall Beck here, Co-founder and CEO of BrokerAssist, and I do lots! Currently, my main focus is to add great value in helping real estate professionals manage and grow their businesses, with the BrokerAssist collaboration and referral network. I also write unscripted television shows and have a few projects in the works with a production company. I co-host quarterly wellness seminars and promote a vegan lifestyle; for the health and happiness of ourselves, the planet, and animals.

What problem does your product/service solve?

Think gig economy for real estate. As a real time, mobile marketplace for agents and brokers to collaborate on fractional assistance and referral needs, BrokerAssist solves the logistical problems brokers face with last minute showings, coverage while on vacation, referral needs, and more.

How do agents grow their businesses? By building teams. BrokerAssist is a cost-effective solution for the agent trying to grow their business without the budget for a full or part time assistant. It’s for the agents who would rather knock out a few more listing appointments than sit at an inspection, which could easily be covered for them by a fellow quality, licensed agent or broker. It’s also for the agents who have some free time to earn extra cash, and maybe a newer agent who’d like more experience at these tasks.

There is no industry wide platform for fractional assistance and referral networking where independent and national firms may collaborate for business growth. Agents and brokers are resorting to Facebook groups, email threads, phone/text, and other outdated and non-integrated payment options.

It’s time to move on from the expensive industry referral models that take as much as 33% of broker and agent commissions. These platforms have lengthy processes and are not on-demand as agents and broker expect, to ensure their referral opportunities are not lost. BrokerAssist solves this as the free on demand referral connection service for real estate professionals. We help keep brokers and agents at the center of their transactions.

What are you most excited about right now?

The BrokerAssist team is deep in QA, wrapping up some development features and starting the Beta testing process. These are exciting times as we move closer to our national launch to android and iOS app stores very soon! I am most excited to see how our technology is adopted and to learn from brokers and agents on how we can improve and expand our products and services as we grow.

What’s next for you?

Growth is next with a deep dive into building a robust BrokerAssist network. Our team has so many great ideas on next generation features and how to expand this platform into other real estate horizontals for additional application. To accomplish this, our next move involves fundraising among friends/family and angel investors.

What’s a cause you’re passionate about and why?

I am a vegan wellness and lifestyle advocate because I care deeply about our responsibility to sustain the happiness and health of ourselves, the planet, and the animals. It’s as simple as supply and demand. We vote with our dollars, and conscious consumption with a vegan lifestyle is a part of the future as we learn to live in harmony with Mother Nature during these modern times.

Thanks to Marshall for sharing his story. If you’d like to connect, find him on LinkedIn here.

We’re constantly looking for great real estate tech entrepreneurs to feature. If that’s you, please read this post — then drop me a line (drew @ geekestatelabs dot com).

Source: geekestateblog.com

Apache is functioning normally

August 30, 2023 by Brett Tams

An oasis of sandy beaches, nature preserves and restaurants with stunning views, Key Biscayne offers all the allure of South Florida on a tiny sliver of land.

Just minutes from downtown Miami, Key Biscayne feels a world away from the city’s bustle and South Beach’s party vibe. The tiny island is home to 2 state parks, as well as quiet, palm-tree-fringed beaches, bike paths, and high-end accommodations (including the sprawling Ritz-Carlton on Key Biscayne).

The homes that line Key Biscayne’s streets are just as impressive as the natural beauty that surrounds them.

And one in particular — which hit the market just a couple of weeks back — embodies the ‘Island Paradise’ vibe of Key Biscayne to perfection.

^{Photo credit: Virtuals 1 courtesy of Coldwell Banker Realty}

The $20 million Mariner Dr. property was custom-built built in 2013 by world renowned architect Cesar Molina of CMA Design Studio, known for his signature “tropical modern’ designs.

^{Photo credit: Virtuals 1 courtesy of Coldwell Banker Realty}

Molina combines the clean lines and muted color palette of contemporary design with the warm, natural materials of exotic woods and stones typically found in island environments, and incorporates wellness and resort-like amenities into his projects.

The Key Biscayne house on Mariner Dr. is no exception, featuring beautiful natural stone and wood throughout, and incorporating the perfect amenities to make residents feel like they’re living in their own private resort.

^{Photo credit: Virtuals 1 courtesy of Coldwell Banker Realty}

The waterfront home sits on a canal with ocean access, and offers resort-style living at its finest — including 9 covered balconies, 4 covered terraces, and infinity lap pool, and even a private yacht dock behind the house.

With a generous 5,760 square feet of elegant living space, including a two-story living room, 5 bedrooms, 6 full baths and 1 half bath, the Key Biscayne house was fully refreshed and rejuvenated in 2022 with many upgrades and luxury finishes.

^{Photo credit: Virtuals 1 courtesy of Coldwell Banker Realty}

It’s now being offered for sale with a $20 million price tag. Carmen D’Ambrosio with Coldwell Banker Realty, Key Biscayne holds the listing.

And we wouldn’t be at all surprised if a celebrity moves in. The area is quite popular among A-listers, who’ve been flocking to South Florida in recent years.

Rapper Rick Ross recently splurged $37 million for a waterfront home in the nearby Star Island, and rumor has it that soccer superstar Lionel Messi is also looking at Key Biscayne as a place to settle down following his move to Miami.

Messi is no stranger to Key Biscayne. Just a couple of years back, he rented a 5-bedroom waterfront mansion here, the former Matheson estate, known as the Mashta House — the most expensive house in Key Biscayne, which last sold for $47 million. Let’s hope the $20 million Mariner Dr. house is on his radar!

More stories

A $22 Million penthouse unit lists at the famed Fontainebleau Resort in Miami Beach

This $59.9 million mansion is on track to become Boca Raton’s most expensive house — again

Larry Ellison’s house, the $173M Gemini Mansion in Florida

Source: fancypantshomes.com

Apache is functioning normally

August 14, 2023 by Brett Tams

In a city renowned for its glamor and extravagance, luxury living reaches new heights, enticing potential homebuyers with an array of exquisite features that redefine modern sophistication. If you’re thinking about moving to the city and you’re in the market to buy a luxury home in Los Angeles, you’ll find this city offers a wealth of luxurious properties that seamlessly blend elegance, comfort, and functionality.

But what are the most sought-after luxury home features in the Los Angeles housing market? From views of the iconic skyline to the seamless integration of smart technologies, the City of Angels boasts an array of luxury home features that elevate homes to unparalleled heights. In this Redfin article, we unveil the most coveted home features in Los Angeles, providing an exclusive glimpse into the world of high-end living that awaits.

Top neighborhoods with luxury home features in Los Angeles

While Los Angeles already has a high median sale price, coming in at nearly one million in June, almost $500K higher than the national median, there are several neighborhoods renowned for their luxury homes and exceptional features where homebuyers are willing to pay premium prices.

North of Montana tops the list with a median sale price of nearly five million in June 2023. With tree-lined streets and a serene atmosphere, these residences often feature traditional or Mediterranean-inspired designs, spacious interiors, upscale finishes, and well-manicured yards. The neighborhood offers a refined, upscale living experience in a prestigious enclave.

Venice saw a median sale price of over two million. Homes in Venice exude eclectic charm, ranging from beachside villas to contemporary designs, often featuring modern amenities, open layouts, and outdoor spaces. Artistic flair, diverse architecture, and a vibrant community atmosphere define Venice’s unique residential landscape.

Luxury homes in Ocean Park, epitomize coastal living, and with a median sale price of almost $1.9 million, these residences showcase a fusion of contemporary design and beachside charm. Expansive windows, high-end finishes, and proximity to the ocean create a harmonious blend of upscale comfort and the laid-back vibe of the neighborhood.

Mar Vista, known for its blend of modernity and neighborhood charm, showcases a blend of modern style and casual elegance. These residences often feature open layouts, high-end finishes, and inviting outdoor areas. Mar Vista’s neighborhood charm combined with upscale living creates a unique and appealing residential experience in the heart of Los Angeles. Homes in Mar Vista are also set at premium prices, with a median sale price of almost $1.8 million.

Lastly, with a median sale price of almost $1.6 million, Sunset Park offers upscale living in a laid-back coastal setting. Characterized by a mix of architectural styles, these residences boast modern amenities, stylish interiors, and inviting outdoor spaces.

1. Smart home technology

Luxury homes are typically equipped with smart home technology to enhance convenience, comfort, and security, and luxury homes in Los Angeles are no exception.

Luxury homes will usually have smart home features like Nest control, a dual-zone climate management adjustable via phone or central systems, showcasing a seamless blend of comfort and innovation. The incorporation of Cat 5 Ethernet connectivity ensures high-speed communication, meeting the demands of present-day digital requirements and enabling efficient data exchange, streaming, and connectivity. You’ll also find enhanced security solutions, such as SimpliSafe and Ring capabilities, to offer peace of mind for homeowners. These technologies create a futuristic, efficient, and comfortable living experience that redefines the way you interact with your home.

2. Modern and contemporary style

Modern and contemporary design is popular among luxury homes in Los Angeles as it offers a harmonious blend of form, function, and visual appeal.

Picture a home that seamlessly blends modern and contemporary styles. Its exterior showcases clean lines, with a mix of materials such as glass, metal, and wood creating a dynamic facade. As you step inside, you’re welcomed by an open floor plan, emphasizing spaciousness and fluidity. Neutral color palettes dominate, punctuated by vibrant accents. Large windows invite abundant natural light, and smart technology seamlessly integrates into the design. Throughout the space, you’ll find a mix of textures, from smooth surfaces to tactile fabrics. Sleek lines, recessed lighting, trendy materials like Quartz and LVP, and minimalist design create an ambiance of refined elegance.

3. Floor-to-ceiling windows

Floor-to-ceiling windows are a growing luxury trend, meeting the rising demand for ample natural light. Luxury residences commonly feature expansive glass windows and doors, welcoming ample sunlight, and offering captivating views, harmonizing with the surroundings by embracing nature’s beauty indoors.

Beyond its aesthetic appeal, this design element transforms living spaces into inviting spaces, fostering a connection with the outdoors. The interplay of sunlight and architectural design blurs indoor-outdoor boundaries, creating an environment that enhances the visual allure of interior spaces.

4. En-suite bathrooms

The desirability of en-suite bathrooms in most or all rooms reflects a premium standard of luxury living. This feature offers unparalleled privacy and convenience, catering to the personal needs and preferences of each occupant. Luxury homeowners value this feature for its capacity to enhance comfort and accommodate guests with an upscale experience akin to a private retreat.

Luxury homes in Los Angeles typically have elaborate glass showers or open areas near soaking tubs that provide a spa-like experience. You’ll also find high-end materials such as marble or granite countertops, exquisite tile work, and premium fixtures. Features such as spacious walk-in showers with multiple shower heads, soaking tubs, heated floors, and smart technology for lighting and temperature control are often included to enhance the experience.

5. Backyard oasis

In the bustling landscape of Los Angeles, homeowners prize the “backyard oasis” as an escape from the city’s energy. With features like artificial grass, a cabana, and a pristine pool and spa, homeowners and their guests can forget their daily stresses and relax. A pergola adds an inviting touch, while a dry sauna and ice bath elevates the wellness experience. With LA’s pleasant year-round climate, a backyard oasis is the perfect place for homeowners to create their own personal sanctuary within the privacy of their backyard.

6. Open floor concept

Open floor concept typically merges the kitchen, living room, and dining area into one expansive area. This layout enhances the sense of openness, encourages natural light to flow freely, and fosters a more social and interactive environment. Open floor plans are known for their versatility, enabling easy movement and facilitating communication between family members and guests. They have become popular due to their modern and spacious feel, allowing for creative interior design and adaptable use of space.

The allure of the open floor concept, complemented by expansive sliding glass cantina doors leading to the backyard, is a top luxury home feature in Los Angeles. This design blurs the boundaries between indoor and outdoor spaces, capitalizing on the city’s mild climate and creating an effortless connection with nature. The doors create an expansive, light-filled ambiance, while the fluid transition enhances the sense of space.

7. Garage conversion

Customizing a garage gives homeowners the opportunity to tailor the space to their desire, whether that’s creating a private gym, a home theater, an art studio, or an ADU. Repurposing the garage allows homeowners to optimize their property’s functionality and aesthetics, often adding unique features like custom cabinetry, high-end finishes, and integrated technology.

If you’re planning to buy a home in LA, a local Redfin Premier agent will provide invaluable insights into the market, including an in-depth understanding of the neighborhoods, pricing trends, and available luxury properties. Their expertise ensures you find a home with the perfect blend of desired amenities. Or, if you plan to list your luxury property, a Redfin agent can guide you in making informed decisions to maximize its appeal and value, tailoring it to attract the most discerning buyers.

Source: redfin.com

Apache is functioning normally

August 14, 2023 by Brett Tams

More Than a Third of Americans Say Uncertainty About Their Finances Keeps Them Up at Night at Least Monthly Northwestern Mutual’s 2023 Planning & Progress Study finds Americans feel stronger about their friendships, mental health, physical health and job stability than they do about their finances An arc of financial anxiety emerges – peaking for … [Read more…]

Apache is functioning normally

August 12, 2023 by Brett Tams

The Summit Club is undoubtedly the epicenter of luxury living in Las Vegas.

Located just 15 minutes from the Strip, this exclusive neighborhood and golf community is spread across more than 600 acres of stunning desert landscape and features a Tom Fazio-designed golf course, unique wellness and recreation programs, and 260 luxurious residences.

Celine Dion just sold a house here for $30 million, setting a new local real estate record and making a killer profit in the process. The singer reportedly paid $9.2 million for her then-freshly-built Las Vegas manse back in 2017, heavily renovated the place in the years since, then tripled her initial investment by selling it in an off-market transaction for $30 million.

Actor Mark Wahlberg recently bought a $14.5 million bungalow in The Summit Club, while waiting for his mansion to be built on a separate 2.5-acre lot in the same community, which he purchased last year for $15.6 million.

Now, a new $23.5 million property recently hit the market at The Summit Club — and it’s as impressive as you’d expect.

^{Photo credit: Stephen Morgan courtesy of Coldwell Banker Premier Realty}

The modern, minimalist abode at 11051 Witchcraft Court was designed and built by renowned luxury homebuilder, Blue Heron, and is nestled on a premium corner homesite with unparalleled views of the golf course, mountains, and the world-famous Las Vegas Strip.

“This architectural gem spans an impressive 9,827 square feet which includes the attached five-bedroom casita with private entrance,” said Lillie Shines of Coldwell Banker Premier Realty Global Luxury with whom the property is exclusively listed.

Completed in 2022, the luxury residence offers 9 bedrooms and 9 baths, and is lined with expansive pocket sliders to create an indoor-outdoor living experience.

^{Photo credit: Stephen Morgan courtesy of Coldwell Banker Premier Realty}

“The sophisticated, single-story design of the main house features retractable glass walls which open to create a seamless indoor/outdoor living experience that beautifully incorporates the home’s captivating exteriors and natural surroundings,” Shines added.

The gourmet chef’s kitchen, equipped with top-of-line appliances, an oversized quartz island with waterfall edges, and custom white cabinetry, is the hub of the home and makes it easy to access all the other areas, including the flex room, secondary bedrooms, pool area, elevator to the deck, gym, or even the attached casita.

^{Photo credit: Stephen Morgan courtesy of Coldwell Banker Premier Realty}

“The temperature-controlled wine wall is a centerpiece of the designer kitchen promising to elevate every celebration to new heights,” said Shines. “There’s also an elevator to easily serve your guests on the rooftop deck.”

^{Photo credit: Stephen Morgan courtesy of Coldwell Banker Premier Realty}

The primary bedroom features a private sitting area with direct access to its own spa. The primary bathroom too comes with a luxury spa vibe, boasting an “outdoor oasis with dual showers”, per the listing.

^{Photo credit: Stephen Morgan courtesy of Coldwell Banker Premier Realty}

Not to be outdone, the casita on the property stands as a private two-story retreat, complete with 5 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms, and a separate 2-car garage. The first floor of the casita features a gathering room with a kitchen and a primary suite, while the second floor offers 4 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms.

^{Photo credit: Stephen Morgan courtesy of Coldwell Banker Premier Realty}

Originally intended to be a multi-generational space, there are endless possibilities on how to maximize this unique area.

Heading outside, we find a resort-style backyard with not one, but TWO zero-edge pools, and plenty of outdoor amenities that add to its appeal. This includes a spa, an outdoor kitchen equipped with a pizza oven, and a bar.

^{Photo credit: Stephen Morgan courtesy of Coldwell Banker Premier Realty}

And just in case the future owners need even more space for entertaining, they can take the party to the roof, where a stylish rooftop deck with a bar offers jaw-dropping views of the Las Vegas strip and city lights.

^{Photo credit: Stephen Morgan courtesy of Coldwell Banker Premier Realty}

Listing agent Lillie Shines has witnessed the complete transformation of this property as she has been working with the home sellers since 2019 when they first selected this parcel of land at The Summit Club.

From its inception, Shines was integral in both the transaction and coordinating the design of the custom build as her sellers had to communicate with her from overseas while international travel was halted during the pandemic.

“Exceptional properties deserve representation of an equally exceptional caliber and that is what the Global Luxury program and sales professionals like Lillie bring to the table,” said Bob Hamrick, chairman and CEO of Coldwell Banker Premier Realty. “This extraordinary property will charm even the most discerning buyers.”

More stories

Step inside a Las Vegas mansion that Michael Jackson once called home

Carolina Hurricanes’ Max Pacioretty Hits a ‘Bar Down’ with $11M Las Vegas house sale

Tour the house that won Season 1 of HGTV’s ‘Rock the Block’ competition

Source: fancypantshomes.com

Apache is functioning normally

August 11, 2023 by Brett Tams

Most people want to save for the future, whether that means a short-term goal like a vacation in Bali next year or a longer-term aspiration, such as retiring by age 50. To fund these dreams, many experts recommend putting aside at least 20% of your paycheck.

However, each person’s financial situation is of course different. One person might have student loans they are paying off on a lower income while another might be earning a lofty salary with minimal debt. And yet a third might have a moderate income, some student loans, and they just closed on a home and are spending on major renovations.

So exactly how much you should save will depend on a variety of factors, such as your goals, your current income and debt, and your cost of living. Here, some guidelines to help you know exactly how much of your paycheck to save.

What Percentage of My Paycheck Should I Save?

Most of us know that saving money is important, but how much should you regularly whisk out of your checking account and into a savings vehicle? When it comes to what percentage of income to save for future expenses, financial advice can vary depending on where you look. Some experts suggest saving as little as 10% of each paycheck, while others might suggest 30% or more. A figure of 20% often seems a comfortable compromise.

The 50 20 30 Rule

According to the 50/30/20 rule of budgeting, 50% of your take-home income should go to essentials, 30% to nonessentials, and 20% to saving for future goals (including debt repayment beyond the minimum).

The right amount for you to save from each paycheck will depend on your income, your fixed expenses, as well as your short- and long-term financial goals.

For example, if the cost of living is high in your area, you may need to spend more than half of your take-home pay on living expenses, making it hard to put 20% of each paycheck into savings.

On the other hand, If your goal is to buy a home in two years, you may need to put more than 20% percent of your paycheck into savings in order to have your down payment in that timeline. If you want to retire early, you may need to put more of your income towards retirement every month than the average worker.

💡 Quick Tip: An online bank account with SoFi can help your money earn more — up to 4.50% APY, with no minimum balance required.

The Pros and Cons of Saving More or Less

While 20% is a good guideline, how much of each paycheck to save is a personal decision.

If you are trying to decide just how much of your paycheck to save, consider these points. Being aggressive with savings can have its benefits. You might also consider these the advantages that you miss out on if you save less.

• By saving more, you reach your goal faster.

• By maximizing the money you put away, you may rein in your spending and manage your money better in general.

• If your company offers a match for retirement savings, you can basically get free money by saving at the stipulated rate.

• Some savings vehicles offer tax advantages.

However, there are also downsides to saving as much as possible. You could avoid these by saving less. In other words, these are the benefits of saving less.

• By saving less, you might avoid living paycheck to paycheck, which is stressful.

• You can put more money towards paying down high-interest debt which can enhance your financial situation.

• You have more money for discretionary spending and enjoying your life.

Here’s how this stacks up in chart form:

Pros of Saving More/Cons of Saving Less	Cons of Saving More/Pros of Saving Less
Saving more means reaching financial goals faster	Saving aggressively can lead to money stress
Saving more can rein in spending and lead to better money management	Saving more can mean less money free to pay down debt
Saving more can potentially reap a company match via employee savings plan	The more you save, the less you may have for discretionary or “fun” spending
Saving more can mean tax advantages

Recommended: Cost of Living Index by State

4 Potential Savings Goals to Work Toward

Socking away money can be a good idea, but it is undoubtedly difficult to save. It can be helpful to really think about what it is you are saving for. Having a few specific goals in mind can help you determine how much you need to save each month and also help keep you motivated to maintain the discipline it takes to save.

Here are some common savings goals that can help you build financial wellness.

1. An Emergency Fund

Do you have a healthy reserve of cash you could tap to get through a difficult time or cover a large, unexpected expense?

If not, you may want to start saving up for an emergency fund that could help you handle a financial curveball, such as a job loss, medical emergency, or big ticket car or home repair.

Having this back-up fund in place can help ensure that you never have to rely on high-interest credit cards to make ends meet.

Ideally, an emergency fund will contain enough money to cover your living expenses for three to six months, but how much you’ll want to put aside will depend on your situation.

If you are married with no children, for example, you may only need to cover three months of expenses. If you have kids or you’re single, you may want to have an emergency fund that could cover at least six months’ worth of expenses.

It can help to keep the money in an account that earns more interest than a standard savings account, but allows you to easily access your money.

Some good options include: a high-yield savings account (online banks tend to offer good rates) or money market account.

2. Paying Off High-Interest Debt

Another important thing you could consider doing with your savings is paying off any “bad” or high-interest debt you may have. Some ideas for a debt management plan:

• A debt payoff strategy you may want to consider is the debt snowball method. With this approach, you start by paying off the debt with the smallest balance and put all your extra payments towards that until it’s paid off (while continuing to pay the minimum on your other debts).

You then put extra payments toward the debt with the next highest balance, and so on. This can give you a sense of accomplishment which can help motivate you to continue your aggressive repayment.

• Another approach is the debt avalanche method. This Involves putting all your extra payments towards the debt with the highest interest rate, while paying the minimum on the others.

When that debt is paid off, you then focus on the debt with the next-highest interest rate. Since you are concentrating on the debt with the highest interest rate, this strategy can end up being the most cost-effective.

3. Saving for Retirement

One of the key things to save for each month is your future. Exactly how much of your paycheck should go to retirement savings will depend on your age and when you want to retire.

If your company offers a 401(k) with matching contributions, it can make sense to put aside at least as much of your paycheck as your company will match (since this is essentially free money).

If you don’t have access to a 401(k) or want to contribute beyond that fund, you may want to open a Roth or Traditional IRA. Both types of IRAs have different tax benefits.

When you invest in a Roth IRA the money is taxed at the time of contribution but then in retirement, you can withdraw it tax free. Contributions made to a traditional IRA might not be taxed at the time they are made but are taxed when they are withdrawn in retirement.

When choosing how much of your paycheck to put into retirement savings, you may want to keep in mind that the IRS sets restrictions on how much you can contribute to your retirement funds each year.

4. Saving for Other Goals

After establishing plans for debt repayment, an emergency fund, and retirement savings, you may also want to consider working toward your other financial goals, like buying a house, saving for your kids’ future education, or going on a great vacation.

How much of your paycheck you should save for these goals will depend on what you want to accomplish and when you want to accomplish it.

When you’re saving for a big purchase, for example, you may want to start by determining how much money you’ll need and when you want to have the money.

You can then break that dollar amount down into the amount you need to save each year and month. This can help you determine how much of each paycheck you may want to put aside to help you achieve that goal.

• For savings goals you want to accomplish in the next three to five years, you may want to consider putting the money in a safe account that earns higher-than-average interest (such as a high-yield savings account or a CD).

• Longer-term savings goals, such as your children’s college education, can be invested more aggressively, since you’ll have more time to ride out the ups and downs of the securities markets. For college savings, you may want to consider opening a 529 savings plan.

💡 Quick Tip: Fees can be a real drag when you’re trying to save money. SoFi’s high-yield checking account has no account fees, including overdraft coverage up to $50.

Saving a Percentage vs. an Amount

There are different ways to look at saving: Some people follow the percentage method, while others prefer to think in terms of a dollar amount that gets socked away.

For many people, a percentage is a good way to go.

• That percentage can be “set it and forget it.” It can help guide you if, say, you get a raise. The amount you are saving will automatically rise with your salary.

• Similarly, if you are a seasonal worker, the amount you are saving will go down during your slow season. Say you earn $15,000 a month during the busy season and save 20%. That would be $3,000 a month. If your pay dips to $5,000 during the quiet season, only $1,000 per month would go into savings.

However, other people may find that putting aside a set amount, perhaps $1,000 a month, is a good way to save.

• That might make it easier for them to calculate and track their savings. It can be a way that people feel they are in control of their money.

• When their income rises or falls, they would have the opportunity to be hands-on with their money and determine whether to adjust the amount or not.

Here’s a look in chart form:

Saving a Percentage	Saving an Amount
“Set it and forget it” convenience	Can be simpler to remember and track
Automatically adjusts savings when your income changes	Can get you to check in with your money and adjust your savings amount regularly

💡 Quick Tip: When you feel the urge to buy something that isn’t in your budget, try the 30-day rule. Make a note of the item in your calendar for 30 days into the future. When the date rolls around, there’s a good chance the “gotta have it” feeling will have subsided.

Starting to Save With SoFi

Interested in opening an online bank account? When you sign up for a SoFi Checking and Savings account with direct deposit, you’ll get a competitive annual percentage yield (APY), pay zero account fees, and enjoy an array of rewards, such as access to the Allpoint Network of 55,000+ fee-free ATMs globally. Qualifying accounts can even access their paycheck up to two days early.

Better banking is here with up to 4.50% APY on SoFi Checking and Savings.

FAQ

Is it good to save 50% of your salary?

If you can afford to save 50% of your salary, that can be a habit that can help you reach financial stability quickly. However, many people will save less than that, with 20% of one’s take-home pay being a solid figure to aim for.

Is saving 10% of your paycheck enough?

Saving 10% of your paycheck is a good start and is certainly better than not saving at all. If you are just starting out, have a high cost of living, or have considerable debt, it can be a good move to start with 10% as your savings goal. However, many financial experts encourage people to save at least 20% of their take-home pay.

What is the 50 20 30 rule?

The 50/30/20 budget rule is a formula to help people manage their finances. It says that, of your take-home pay, 50% should go towards basic living expenses (the needs in your life); 30% should go to spending (the wants in life); and 20% should go towards saving for the future (including debt repayment beyond the bare minimum).

SoFi® Checking and Savings is offered through SoFi Bank, N.A. ©2023 SoFi Bank, N.A. All rights reserved. Member FDIC. Equal Housing Lender.

The SoFi Bank Debit Mastercard® is issued by SoFi Bank, N.A., pursuant to license by Mastercard International Incorporated and can be used everywhere Mastercard is accepted. Mastercard is a registered trademark, and the circles design is a trademark of Mastercard International Incorporated.

SoFi members with direct deposit can earn up to 4.50% annual percentage yield (APY) on savings balances (including Vaults) and 0.50% APY on checking balances. There is no minimum direct deposit amount required to qualify for the 4.50% APY for savings. Members without direct deposit will earn up to 1.20% annual percentage yield (APY) on savings balances (including Vaults) and 0.50% APY on checking balances. Interest rates are variable and subject to change at any time. These rates are current as of 8/2/2023. There is no minimum balance requirement. Additional information can be found at http://www.sofi.com/legal/banking-rate-sheet.

Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.

SoFi Invest®
The information provided is not meant to provide investment or financial advice. Also, past performance is no guarantee of future results.
Investment decisions should be based on an individual’s specific financial needs, goals, and risk profile. SoFi can’t guarantee future financial performance. Advisory services offered through SoFi Wealth, LLC. SoFi Securities, LLC, member FINRA / SIPC . SoFi Invest refers to the three investment and trading platforms operated by Social Finance, Inc. and its affiliates (described below). Individual customer accounts may be subject to the terms applicable to one or more of the platforms below.
1) Automated Investing—The Automated Investing platform is owned by SoFi Wealth LLC, an SEC registered investment advisor (“Sofi Wealth“). Brokerage services are provided to SoFi Wealth LLC by SoFi Securities LLC, an affiliated SEC registered broker dealer and member FINRA/SIPC, (“Sofi Securities).

2) Active Investing—The Active Investing platform is owned by SoFi Securities LLC. Clearing and custody of all securities are provided by APEX Clearing Corporation.

3) Cryptocurrency is offered by SoFi Digital Assets, LLC, a FinCEN registered Money Service Business.

For additional disclosures related to the SoFi Invest platforms described above, including state licensure of Sofi Digital Assets, LLC, please visit www.sofi.com/legal.
Neither the Investment Advisor Representatives of SoFi Wealth, nor the Registered Representatives of SoFi Securities are compensated for the sale of any product or service sold through any SoFi Invest platform. Information related to lending products contained herein should not be construed as an offer or prequalification for any loan product offered by SoFi Bank, N.A.

Tax Information: This article provides general background information only and is not intended to serve as legal or tax advice or as a substitute for legal counsel. You should consult your own attorney and/or tax advisor if you have a question requiring legal or tax advice.

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Source: sofi.com

Apache is functioning normally

August 7, 2023 by Brett Tams

Northwestern Mutual’s $2.5 million investment in higher education will support 136 diverse students over the next five years Nine students in Milwaukee awarded Northwestern Mutual inaugural HBCU Connection scholarship to further their education at historically black colleges and universities 100 students will be awarded in All-In Milwaukee grants and scholarships to underserved or first-generation college … [Read more…]

Hanover Mortgages

The Refined Mortgage Lending Company & Home Loan Lenders

wellness

Apache is functioning normally

Assess your income and expenses

Create your college student budget

1. Create your spending categories.

2. Choose a type of budget.

3. Optimize your budget regularly.

Prioritize essential expenses

Manage your fixed and variable expenses

Save for emergencies

Start building your financial foundation today

Apache is functioning normally

Apache is functioning normally

Apache is functioning normally

Apache is functioning normally

Apache is functioning normally