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Author: Danielle Antosz

  • Americans waste $200/year on subscriptions they don’t use — and thanks to a recent federal ruling, that’s not likely to end. Here’s why and what you can do to take back control

    The "click-to-cancel" rule, which would have forced businesses to make it easier for consumers to cancel subscriptions, was blocked by a federal court days before it was set to take effect, the Associated Press reports.

    The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) pitched the new rule as a way to simplify the process of canceling a subscription, which can get tricky after free trials or limited-time offers expire and auto-renewals kick in.

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    “Too often, businesses make people jump through endless hoops just to cancel a subscription,” Commission Chair Lina M. Khan shared on the FTC’s website. “The FTC’s rule will end these tricks and traps, saving Americans time and money. Nobody should be stuck paying for a service they no longer want.”

    But with the federal court’s ruling, consumers hoping for a simpler unsubscribe process may have to wait.

    Why ‘click-to-cancel’ was canceled

    The U.S. Court of Appeals for the Eighth Circuit halted the rollout of the rule, stating that the FTC failed to conduct a preliminary regulatory analysis, which is required for new regulations expected to have an annual economic impact of more than $100 million.

    The FTC argued that such analysis wasn’t necessary because it estimated the rule would fall below that $100 million threshold. But a judge reportedly disagreed, saying the impact would likely exceed that amount.

    Meanwhile, subscription fatigue is real — and expensive. According to CNET, the average American spends $1,080 per year on subscriptions while wasting $200 annually on subscriptions they don’t use. These stats show how subscription creep can quietly drain your budget.

    Tennessee state Rep. Bob Freeman, who introduced a bill in his state to make it easier to cancel subscriptions, discovered two years ago that his daughter had signed up for several subscriptions with introductory rates. And since she wasn’t canceling the subscriptions when the initial offer expired, Freeman started getting charged full price for several app subscriptions he didn’t recognize.

    To cancel, Freeman had to email the company to schedule a follow-up call, during which the representative would try to talk him into keeping the subscription.

    “It was clear it was not meant for convenience,” said Freeman. “It was clear it was predatory.”

    Tennessee now has a state law that requires companies to give consumers notice of automatic renewals, and several other states have followed suit. However, the federal "click-to-cancel" rule would have standardized those protections nationwide, ensuring that — regardless of where you live — canceling a subscription would be as easy as signing up.

    Read more: You don’t have to be a millionaire to gain access to this $1B private real estate fund. In fact, you can get started with as little as $10 — here’s how

    How to avoid paying for unwanted subscriptions

    With click-to-cancel no longer taking effect nationwide, the burden of managing subscriptions remains on consumers. If you’re worried about paying for subscriptions you no longer use, here’s how to take control and avoid unwanted charges.

    Set a calendar reminder for free trials

    Before starting a free trial, ensure that you understand the terms and conditions, including the renewal details. Many subscriptions offer an “introductory” rate that is cheaper than the renewal rate. Do yourself a favor and set a reminder on your phone or in your calendar a few days before the trial ends. That gives you a few days to decide if the app is worth keeping and take action if it is not.

    Use a service to manage/cancel subscriptions

    Several budgeting apps, such as Rocket Money and Trim, can help you track subscriptions and flag charges you may not recognize. They can also cancel those subscriptions or request a discount on your behalf. While these services require a payment, you may find it’s less than you’re wasting on subscriptions.

    Watch out for sneaky auto-renewals

    Some subscriptions renew annually and may only provide a short window for cancellation. Always check the fine print and consider canceling shortly after signing up to avoid a surprise charge next year. If you find you use the subscription, you can always renew.

    Cancel in the app store or on your device

    If you signed up for an app through Apple’s App Store or Google Play, use those platforms to cancel your subscription. They often offer a more straightforward cancellation process than visiting the business’s website.

    Review your statements regularly

    Make it a habit to review charges on your credit or debit card monthly. Look for small, recurring charges, especially from companies you don’t recognize. Remember that the billing name may differ from the app or service that you signed up for.

    Recurring charges can quietly add up, but with a little organization and awareness, you can keep your subscription budget in check even without a federal rule forcing companies to make it easier.

    What to read next

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    This article provides information only and should not be construed as advice. It is provided without warranty of any kind.

  • ‘Let’s see what happens’: NYC store goes viral for selling $4 ‘mystery boxes’ — but some packages come with an extra shocking surprise. Here’s what you need to know to protect yourself

    ‘Let’s see what happens’: NYC store goes viral for selling $4 ‘mystery boxes’ — but some packages come with an extra shocking surprise. Here’s what you need to know to protect yourself

    A dollar store in the Bronx has gone viral after a TikTok video showcased its $4 “mystery packages.”

    The boxes, which contain returned merchandise from retailers like Amazon, Walmart and others, can hold anything from brand-new sandals to toilet plungers. The thrill of the unknown is part of the appeal — and business is booming.

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    “Just hope and pray, let’s see what happens,” said one shopper outside Dollar Universe.

    Store manager Luis Almonte sources the boxes from liquidators in Brooklyn and New Jersey, paying around $600 for pallets of roughly 400 items. The goods are customer returns from across the country, many originally sold by Amazon or Walmart, and resold in bulk through liquidation channels.

    But as the store’s popularity grows, so do the questions.

    Are these sales legal?

    Almonte insisted to WABC 7 Eyewitness News that he’s just trying to run a fun, affordable business. Still, he’s aware there may be legal or ethical lines he doesn’t want to cross.

    “I’m going to do an investigation to see, because I don’t want to do anything illegal that hurts myself,” Almonte said.

    To test the process, reporter Kemberly Richardson purchased one of the returned items and discovered the original buyer’s full name, phone number and home address were still on the box.

    She called the phone number, and the stunned buyer confirmed they had returned what was supposed to be a yoga mat. They were shocked to hear their personal information was still floating around on a resold package.

    Almonte said he normally uses a marker to obscure personal information and is willing to go further if needed.

    “I scratch the name dark that way nobody sees,” he said, adding that if that’s not enough, he’ll remove items from the packaging altogether.

    Walmart told Eyewitness News it requires all its liquidators to remove personal customer information before resale. Amazon said it’s now investigating the matter, including “the possibility that these products may have been delivered to customer addresses, were stolen and are now being resold by unauthorized third parties.”

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    What happens to those Amazon packages you return?

    Returned Amazon packages don’t always go back on the digital shelves. Many are routed to liquidation warehouses where they’re bundled into pallets and auctioned off to resellers. These buyers — like Almonte — often have no idea what’s in each box until it’s opened.

    While this resale model isn’t new, the viral popularity of $4 “mystery boxes” is raising fresh concerns about data privacy and consumer protection.

    If you return items online, you might assume your personal data is wiped — but that’s not always the case. In rare instances, as this story highlights, packaging labels with full names, phone numbers and addresses can end up in the hands of strangers.

    To protect yourself, make sure to:

    • Remove or deface shipping labels before returning items, when possible.
    • Avoid returns that include sensitive items or personal documents.
    • Monitor your accounts and credit reports for unusual activity, especially if you’ve recently made several returns.

    This incident doesn’t necessarily mean you need to stop shopping online, but it’s a reminder that once you send a package back, what happens next is often out of your control.

    Major retailers like Walmart and Amazon allow third-party liquidation of returns, and they typically have policies in place to protect customer privacy. But as this case shows, gaps can occur — especially when items move through multiple hands.

    What to read next

    Money doesn’t have to be complicated — sign up for the free Moneywise newsletter for actionable finance tips and news you can use. Join now.

    This article provides information only and should not be construed as advice. It is provided without warranty of any kind.

  • This Florida couple says they paid a landscaper $27K to transform their yard — but all they got was some dead grass. Now, they’re suing and warning others to avoid falling for slick scammers

    This Florida couple says they paid a landscaper $27K to transform their yard — but all they got was some dead grass. Now, they’re suing and warning others to avoid falling for slick scammers

    Nick and Susan Perfido of Seminole County, Florida, were looking forward to transforming their backyard into an outdoor paradise. They hired Florida Landscape Living LLC, a company based in Maitland, to do the job.

    “We’re going to have a fire bowl here — actually a fire table,” Nick told WESH 2 News while showing reporters a pile of dirt where the project was supposed to take shape.

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    But shortly after writing two checks totaling $27,654.25 in January and February, the couple says everything began to unravel.

    The couple is fighting to get their money back

    The Perfidos were initially impressed by Florida Landscape Living’s sleek website and polished pitch.

    “Everything looked really beautiful and was very glamorous,” Susan told WESH reporters. “It was all window dressing.”

    According to a complaint they filed with the Seminole County Sheriff’s Office, reports WESH, the only work completed was the destruction of grass along their property line. Beyond that, the couple says nothing else was done. When they requested a refund, they say the company demanded a “cancellation fee” of $22,185.60.

    “They were trying to do everything in their power not to answer questions,” Nick said. “That was really the big issue for us, and that’s why we pulled the plug.”

    Then, in March, the landscaping business appeared to vanish. Its Maitland storefront was cleared out, signage removed and inventory was gone. That’s when the Perfidos filed the criminal complaint with the Sheriff’s Office, alleging fraud, larceny and grand theft. They also filed a complaint with the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation.

    Now, they’re taking the company, including its five principals, to court. The couple is suing for “fraudulent misrepresentation” and “civil theft,” and is seeking $181,817 in total damages, reports WESH.

    The attorney for Florida Landscape Living, who has filed a motion to dismiss the claims, called them "a hodge-podge of wild-eyed accusations."

    While preparing their case, the Perfidos — working with a private investigator — say they found that the defendants were linked to dozens of inactive Florida businesses. They told WESH that they also uncovered indications that Florida Landscape Living may not have held the proper licenses.

    Read more: You don’t have to be a millionaire to gain access to this $1B private real estate fund. In fact, you can get started with as little as $10 — here’s how

    How to avoid hiring a scam company

    The Perfidos’ story is an alarming reminder of how convincing bad actors can be. If you’re considering hiring a contractor for landscaping or home improvement work, here are steps to help protect yourself:

    • Verify licensing. Always check with your city, county or state licensing board, like the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR), to confirm the company has the proper credentials.

    • Search for complaints. Look up the company on the Better Business Bureau (BBB) and your local clerk of courts. Public records may show lawsuits, liens or past business violations.

    • Read reviews and ask for references. Look beyond testimonials on the company’s website and use third-party review sites and ask to speak with past customers.

    • Review the contract carefully. Understand the cancellation policy and payment schedule. Be wary of large upfront payments or vague language about fees.

    • Avoid cash payments. Pay by credit card, if possible, as it offers more consumer protection. At a minimum, make sure you have a paper trail of all payments, such as cancelled checks or proof of bank transfers.

    If you’ve already handed over funds to a company and you suspect fraud, take action quickly. File a police report and submit a complaint to state agencies that oversee businesses. In Florida, that is the DBPR. If the amount is significant, you may be able to pursue a civil case for breach of contract.

    Finally, warn others. You can file a complaint with BBB. You can also leave an online review, a post on social media or consider reaching out to local news stations to get your story heard and help others avoid being taken advantage of.

    While the Perfidos have since hired a new contractor to finish their yard, their legal fight continues. “This is about bringing these people to justice,” said Nick.

    What to read next

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    This article provides information only and should not be construed as advice. It is provided without warranty of any kind.

  • Maryland man lost $40,000 to ‘evil geniuses’ in ‘polished’ scam — with over 36,000 reported incidents that cost Americans $1 billion in 2024, here are the patterns you need to watch out for

    Maryland man lost $40,000 to ‘evil geniuses’ in ‘polished’ scam — with over 36,000 reported incidents that cost Americans $1 billion in 2024, here are the patterns you need to watch out for

    In just the first four months of 2025, people in Prince George’s County, Maryland, have lost at least $1 million to scams, according to police.

    One person lost $700,000. Another area resident lost $40,000 after being tricked by fraudsters who posed variously as a Microsoft tech support agent, a rep from his bank and even a federal agent.

    “I was dealing with people I would call evil geniuses,” he told WTOP, asking not to be named. “At the time, I thought I was actually safeguarding the money.”

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    While he may not get his $40,000 back, he’s sharing his story in the hope that he can protect other people from falling for the same con.

    Rehearsed responses and fake credentials

    It started when the man saw a pop-up on his computer saying his computer had been hacked. The pop-up message included a phone number to call for tech support.

    He called the number and was soon speaking with someone he thought was a Microsoft employee. He was then transferred to a woman who claimed to be from his bank. Then he was connected with another person impersonating a federal official.

    Despite his skepticism, each of the imposters had rehearsed responses and fake credentials.

    He recalled actually saying to one of them, “This is exactly what a scammer would do.”

    “But something about her polished rhetoric came back and convinced me otherwise,” he said.

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    The scammers warned him not to use his phone, laptop, or email, claiming that all his devices were compromised. He was told not to speak to friends or even Google the word ‘scams’— as that could be a red flag.

    Believing his accounts were at risk, he handed over $40,000 to someone he thought was a legitimate carrier. That’s when the Prince George’s County Police Department stepped in.

    So when Gyoung Lee, 47, of Flushing, New York, arrived at the victim’s home expecting more cash, officers with the Financial Crimes Unit (FCU) arrested him on the scene.

    Officers also arrested Parmveer Parmveer, 25, of Grove City, Ohio, in connection with the case involving a $700,000 loss.

    Sgt. John Quarless of the Prince George’s County FCU said it’s important for victims not to be embarrassed because these kinds of tech scams are so common.

    “What I encourage, no matter how much information you have, is to call the police and report it,” he told WTOP. “Let us do our due diligence.”

    The tech scam and red flags

    According to the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3), Americans lost $1.4 billion to tech support scams in 2024, with more than 36,000 reported incidents.

    While most victims of such scams are over 60, scammers target people of all backgrounds: young and old, rich and poor, highly educated or not.

    What is consistent is the con artists’ approach.

    “They’re going to create a sense of urgency, a sense of privacy and don’t want you to talk to anybody about it,” Sgt. Quarless said.

    It’s how scammers gain control. Don’t let them. Here are red flags to watch out for.

    A sense of urgency

    Scammers often claim your money is in immediate danger or your account has been compromised. They’ll push you to act fast, hoping you don’t slow down and think it through. Don’t fall for it. Instead, hang up the phone and talk to someone you trust. Visit the bank in person if you’re worried about calling in.

    Isolation tactics

    Victims are frequently told not to talk to anyone — not friends, not family, not even their bank. That’s a major red flag. They’re worried that if you ask for help, someone will stop their scam in its tracks. Instead, make sure you ask for help. Talk to a trusted friend, financial advisor, or bank employee.

    Demands for untraceable payments

    Any request for money through cash couriers, wire transfers, crypto or gift cards is a giveaway. Real businesses and agencies don’t work this way. Never send money to someone you don’t know through these methods.

    Offering to protect your money

    Federal regulations already protect most bank accounts. Pulling the money from your account won’t protect it in most cases. If someone offers to protect your money from a scam, there’s an excellent chance they are the scammers. They’ll say you’re moving the money to a ‘safe account,’ but that account belongs to them.

    If you’re being scammed, officials recommend slowing down, hanging up the phone and calling your bank. Look on the back of your debit or credit card for the legitimate customer service number; don’t trust online pop-up ads.

    Many victims stay silent, feeling ashamed that they were fooled. But speaking up like this victim did helps law enforcement track down suspects and potentially warn others before they’re targeted.

    What to read next

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    This article provides information only and should not be construed as advice. It is provided without warranty of any kind.

  • North Carolina residents called the cops over noise at a nearby mansion — but instead of the owners, police found the ‘lawn guy’ hosting a party. And he insists he ‘didn’t break the law’

    North Carolina residents called the cops over noise at a nearby mansion — but instead of the owners, police found the ‘lawn guy’ hosting a party. And he insists he ‘didn’t break the law’

    A massive party at a $4.3 million mansion in Weddington, North Carolina — allegedly held without the owner’s permission — landed one man in jail. WSOC-TV reports that 37-year-old Michael Brown broke into a client’s home and held a graduation party for his son while the owners were away. Brown was charged with breaking and entering, property damage and obtaining property by false pretenses. He has since posted a $10,000 secured bond.

    Brown, however, maintains his actions weren’t criminal. "I didn’t break the law, I just broke some rules, probably, with my owners…but I didn’t break the law," he told WSOC-TV reporters.

    Officers say they were called to the million-dollar mansion on Twelve Mile Creek Road last Saturday night after neighbors reported blocked roads, loud noise and a traffic hazard. When they arrived, they say Brown first claimed to be the homeowner, then the homeowner’s grandson, before finally admitting he was the landscaper.

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    Landscaper defends actions, but family say he crossed the line

    Brown claims the party was a graduation party for his son and his son’s friends. He told reporters that they were aiming to create a "positive environment" and generate a little income.

    But deputies found far more than just a wholesome celebration. “It was mostly teenagers and young adults. We estimate anywhere from three to four hundred people were at the house, and a lot of underage drinking was going on,” Lieutenant James Maye stated.

    Deputies also seized more than $3,000 in entrance fees, which Brown says was used to cover security costs. He strongly denied charging a cover fee or telling police he owned the home.

    “I never spoke to them about anything, about who stayed there or who owned the place. It wasn’t my right to tell them that, because it’s private property,” Brown told reporters.

    The homeowners’ son, Jante Burch, claims Brown has taken advantage of his parents’ generosity and insisted his parents didn’t know about the party, saying, "He’s a liar, number one; clearly he told multiple stories to the officers.”

    While Brown insists he won’t lose the Burch family as a client, Burch disagrees.

    “In fact, not only has he lost a client, he’s probably lost all of the other clients that he had gotten in that neighborhood,” Burch [told reporters}(https://www.wsoctv.com/news/local/homeowners-son-speaks-out-after-massive-unauthorized-party-familys-mansion/LRDCKMMRZBBJJHAITWL3JKOSLU/).

    Brown has since posted a $10,000 bond and faces charges of breaking and entering, property damage, and obtaining property by false pretenses. There’s no public record yet of any court appearance or scheduled hearing date; the case appears to still be in the pre-trial phase.

    Read more: You don’t have to be a millionaire to gain access to this $1B private real estate fund. In fact, you can get started with as little as $10 — here’s how

    How to vet in-home service providers

    Incidents like this raise big legal and financial questions for homeowners. If a party is thrown at your home, who is responsible if something goes wrong? If a party is thrown on your property without your consent, you’re typically not liable for damages or illegal behavior that occurs, as long as you didn’t authorize it or turn a blind eye to it.

    Still, proving that you didn’t know can be difficult, which is why vetting service providers is so important. And this situation highlights just how quickly trust can be abused when the wrong person gains access to your home. Here are a few ways to protect yourself when hiring someone to work in your home:

    • Check references: Ask for references and search for online reviews. A legitimate business should have a visible online presence and a verifiable track record.
    • Verify licenses and insurance: Landscapers and contractors are usually required to carry liability insurance and may need a license. Double-check the requirements in your state and verify they have the required documentation.
    • Be cautious: Just because someone seems friendly and trustworthy doesn’t mean they are. Don’t provide more access than needed, and set up security cameras when you’re away.
    • Watch for red flags: Avoid anyone who pressures you for cash payments, can’t provide references, doesn’t have a business name, or seems evasive when you ask about past clients.

    Above all, trust your instincts. If something feels off, it likely is. Installing security cameras while you’re away and changing the locks after ending a relationship with a service provider can help limit your risk and ensure your property remains secure.

    What to read next

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    This article provides information only and should not be construed as advice. It is provided without warranty of any kind.

  • Oakland residents flocking to homesteading amid the high cost of living and fears over political unrest — but does this type of self-sufficiency really make financial sense?

    Oakland residents flocking to homesteading amid the high cost of living and fears over political unrest — but does this type of self-sufficiency really make financial sense?

    The corner of 28th Street and Martin Luther King Jr. Way in Oakland isn’t where you’d expect to find fruit trees or beehives. Yet nestled between the historic apartments and storefronts, the intersection is now host to a compact urban homestead.

    Novella Carpenter transformed part of the property into a garden with pomegranate and almond trees plus beehives. She’s among a growing number of Oakland residents taking food production into their own hands.

    "People are getting excited about urban homesteading again," Carpenter told CBS News reporter Kara St. Cyr. "They feel like maybe there will be nobody to help; it’ll only be you helping yourself and your neighbors."

    Homesteading is growing, but is it worth the cost?

    A 2022 study by Homesteaders of America found that 40% of current homesteaders started in the past three years. When asked why, 59% cited food security, 58% wanted healthier food and 52% pointed to political unrest and changing government policies.

    Carpenter said she sees her homestead as a fallback.

    “Just in case,” she said. “It’s kind of like a backup plan.”

    The timing makes sense. Grocery prices jumped 5.8% in 2023, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, after an 11.4% spike in 2022. Tariffs and climate-related disruptions add more pressure.

    "Security is a concern," Carpenter said. "You can kind of relax a little bit. You can be like, ‘Oh, okay, I’ve got at least this covered.’ And the thing is, you can barter with honey.”

    Getting there isn’t cheap, however. Carpenter spent $2,000 to $5,000 to set up her homestead, not counting upkeep or her labor. The payoff comes in stages: seasonal fruit, honey to sell or trade, and — most of all — peace of mind.

    Whether that math works for you depends on your goals, said Robert Eyler, an economics professor at Sonoma State University.

    “The trick is, for those who are thinking about replacing what they would buy at the grocery store with something to do at home, is what’s the cost for you to do that, versus what you can buy from the store?” he said.

    Thinking about homesteading? Keep these tips in mind

    Urban homesteading has emotional and practical perks, but it’s not always a money saver. Take backyard chickens: when egg prices soared, many people bought hens. Even a small flock costs at least $200 for a coop, plus heat lamps, brooder plates, feed and water systems. Hens need six to nine months before they lay, and often slow down in winter. Spending hundreds on eggs may not pan out unless you scale up.

    If you want to try homesteading:

    • Start small. Begin with a couple of fruit trees, a few garden beds or a small flock of chickens.
    • Tap local knowledge. Join community groups, attend workshops or talk with neighbors who have already homesteaded.
    • Share the load. Eyler suggests trading with neighbors: one grows herbs, another keeps bees, another raises chickens. "It’s almost like creating a little economy in your neighborhood,” he said.
    • Look for used or shared tools. Items like tillers or brooder plates are often only needed temporarily, and borrowing or buying used can save hundreds.

    For Carpenter, the payoff goes beyond dollars.

    “You want to create a sense of self-sufficiency,” she said. In a time of economic anxiety and rising prices, that feeling alone may be worth the investment.

    This article provides information only and should not be construed as advice. It is provided without warranty of any kind.

  • Florida’s mobile home communities, once an ‘affordable’ refuge, now charge up to $1,000/month in fees — but these residents have found a way to take control

    Florida’s mobile home communities, once an ‘affordable’ refuge, now charge up to $1,000/month in fees — but these residents have found a way to take control

    Finding affordable housing in Florida has become increasingly difficult, even in mobile home parks, which were once considered a low-cost option. While apartment rents remain high, some mobile home residents now pay nearly $1,000 a month just to rent a lot.

    But in Fruitland Park, a community about an hour outside of Orlando, one mobile home park is bucking that trend. Nancy Hurt has lived in Harbor Oaks Homeowners Cooperative, Inc., for more than 30 years. Unlike residents in corporate-owned parks, she pays just $125 a month, which includes trash collection, water and yard maintenance — a rate that’s near-mythical in today’s rental market.

    “Our maintenance fee does not go up,” Hurt told News 6. “They manage to get income from different sources in the park, which allows us to pay the $125.” Those sources include dock rentals and boat trailer parking, thanks to the park’s location along Lake Griffin.

    The secret? Cooperative ownership.

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    Resident-owned communities offer more control — and lower costs

    Harbor Oaks became a resident-owned cooperative in 1996. That means residents collectively own and manage the park through a board of directors, rather than paying rent to a corporate landlord looking to make a profit.

    “Resident-owned means that you control the park,” said fellow Harbor Oaks resident Geno Moser. “No corporation comes and just takes over and runs you in the ground.”

    Even non-shareholders living in Harbor Oaks pay less than residents of corporate-owned parks. Paul Nowak, president of the homeowners association, told News 6 that renters pay around $400 a month, which includes the $125 maintenance fee.

    It’s a major difference from the rising trend in corporate ownership of mobile home parks across Florida, where many residents report that monthly lot fees have increased sharply. According to a News 6 investigation, there are now more than 700 resident-owned parks across the state, giving residents more options.

    In Florida, mobile home communities generally fall into one of three categories:

    • Full-rental parks, where a company owns both the home and the land and residents are tenants.
    • Land-lease parks, where residents own their homes but rent their land. This can create challenges if the house is old and unable to be moved when the rent increases.
    • Resident-owned cooperatives where homeowners collectively buy and manage the park.

    While all models have their pros and cons, many residents and experts say cooperatives offer more control, better stability and lower costs.

    “They’re not here to make money,” said Betsy Barbieux of Florida CAM Schools LLC, which trains managers of homeowners associations. “They’re here to pay bills and so you have a more conservative approach to the budget.”

    Read more: You don’t have to be a millionaire to gain access to this $1B private real estate fund. In fact, you can get started with as little as $10 — here’s how

    How to join or become a resident-owned mobile park

    Most resident-owned parks start as traditional rental communities. However, when an owner decides to sell, Florida law grants tenants a right of first refusal, allowing them to band together and make an offer before the park hits the market.

    “The landlord wants to sell the park. The law protects the owner-renters by giving them the right of first refusal to purchase the park,” explains Barbieux. That means the owners can purchase the park and manage it themselves.

    If you’re looking for a co-op park, search online using terms like "resident-owned mobile home communities" or "co-op mobile home parks." This model can be a lifeline for retirees or working-class residents trying to manage costs on a fixed income or cope with the rising costs of food and daily necessities.

    Barbieux recommends that prospective mobile home residents ask plenty of questions before signing a lease and consider a co-op over a corporate-owned park whenever possible.

    “Just ask a lot of questions and be sure. They should very definitely consider a co-op rather than a rental park."

    What to read next

    Money doesn’t have to be complicated — sign up for the free Moneywise newsletter for actionable finance tips and news you can use. Join now.

    This article provides information only and should not be construed as advice. It is provided without warranty of any kind.

  • ‘It’s not my fault’: Oakland Chinatown businesses say they’re fed up with the city for fining them thousands after vandals repeatedly graffiti their properties. Now they’re fighting back

    ‘It’s not my fault’: Oakland Chinatown businesses say they’re fed up with the city for fining them thousands after vandals repeatedly graffiti their properties. Now they’re fighting back

    Shop owners in Oakland’s Chinatown are fed up with vandals who repeatedly graffiti their stores and with city officials who keep fining them for it. It’s a never-ending cycle: the walls are spray-painted and employees paint over it, only for the tags to reappear.

    But the city doesn’t seem to be going after the taggers. Instead, it’s penalizing the businesses themselves.

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    “We cannot control [it]. We clean up and they come again. So many times, but the city — I don’t know why they are charging me money,” Shirley Luo, manager of Won Kee Supermarket, told ABC7 News Bay Area in a story published April 9. “It’s not my fault. Not our fault.”

    A day earlier, Luo tried to pay a recent $500 fine — but the city told her she actually owed $3,000, including late fees, according to the local broadcaster.

    Locals are fighting back

    Luo’s story isn’t unique. Businesses across the city’s Chinatown say they’re receiving thousands of dollars in fines for not painting over graffiti fast enough.

    “We close at 4 o’clock when we go home, and we cannot watch people do things like that. We can’t. So, the city has to help,” Susan Lam, another local business owner, told ABC7 News.

    In an effort to help tackle the problem, the Oakland Chinatown Improvement Council (OCIC) set up a program to paint over tags it spotted last August, per the broadcaster. It had limited success, but the group isn’t giving up.

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    “We are going to continue to go over the taggers and continue to put murals on until we get to a point where we have made significant improvement,” Tony Trinh, the council’s executive director, told ABC7 News.

    Businesses also want city officials to take action.

    What are business owners asking for?

    Shop owners want the city to shift its focus from fining property owners to penalizing vandals.

    “The city should go after the taggers. Like they did in Seattle,” Stewart Chen, president of the OCIC board of directors, told ABC7 News. “I won’t say prison or incarceration but at least a fine, so they know there are consequences to their actions. If they just let them come and tag us and leave without any consequences, of course they will come back.”

    Seattle has reportedly spent millions of dollars to control its graffiti problem and employs around 15 full-time employees for removal. The city also aims to hold vandals accountable.

    U.S. Rep. Lateefah Simon echoed the Oakland business community’s frustration and told ABC7 News she’s hopeful newly elected mayor Barbara Lee will do “everything possible to address this policy and others that continue to trouble our business owners. We’ve got to do everything possible to keep businesses stable, to make sure that they are safe and that they can afford to do business in Oakland.”

    Back at Won Kee Supermarket, Luo says the city’s current approach isn’t just frustrating — it’s unjust.

    “Touch my money. Touch the owner’s money, [it’s] not fair,” she said.

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  • California hotel guests awarded $2 million in bed bug lawsuit — they said the 1-night stay left them scarred, seeking medical treatment. How to protect yourself from bed bugs while traveling

    California hotel guests awarded $2 million in bed bug lawsuit — they said the 1-night stay left them scarred, seeking medical treatment. How to protect yourself from bed bugs while traveling

    Two men expecting a relaxing beachside stay ended up in a nightmare. They were “massacre[d] from bed bug bites” during a one-night hotel stay in Ventura, California, according to a lawsuit.

    The duo worked with lawyer Brian J. Virag of My Bed Bug Lawyer, Inc. to file the lawsuit in December 2021. A Ventura county jury recently sided with the pair, awarding them a total of $2 million in damages.

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    The Los Angeles Times reported on the verdict, calling it what “may be one of the largest known bed bug-related jury awards.”

    Here’s what happened.

    Forced to seek medical treatment

    Alvaro Gutierrez and Ramiro Sanchez booked a week-long stay at The Shores Inn in February 2020 but claimed they left after a single night due to a severe bed bug infestation. After the initial room was found to have bed bugs, the men were moved to another room, where the biting continued.

    According to their complaint obtained by USA TODAY, both men suffered “painful bed bug bites, severe skin rash, allergic reaction, scarring and personal injuries over the entirety of their bodies.” They also said they were forced to seek medical treatment.

    The lawsuit alleged that the hotel staff were aware of the infestation due to online reviews on Google and Yelp, but failed to resolve the problem.

    “The bed bugs latched onto the plaintiffs while they slept, sucked their blood until they were gorged, and resisted eradication,” the lawsuit claimed.

    USA TODAY says Gutierrez was awarded $400,000 for pain, disfigurement, grief, and emotional distress, while Sanchez received $600,000 for similar injuries. In addition to compensatory damages, the jury awarded each man $500,000 in punitive damages to hold the hotel accountable for its alleged negligence.

    The Shores Inn did not respond to media inquiries from USA TODAY or the Los Angeles Times. An appellate attorney recently hired by the hotel owners, Wendy Lascher, told the Times that they were considering appealing the decision, or moving for a mistrial or new trial.

    There are also concerns over juror conduct, according to the report. A note found inside one of the notebooks given to jurors suggests that jurors had been near the hotel during the trial and states that one told other jurors that the hotel was “an eyesore & should be tore down.”

    This is far from the only bed bug lawsuit. In April, tourists filed lawsuits against the Luxor hotel and the Treasure Island hotel in Las Vegas over this problem, reported KSNV.

    In a 2017 report, pest control company Orkin said almost half of all hotels have been the subject of litigation because of bed bugs, which according to their research cost, on average, $17,177 per incident.

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    How to avoid bed bugs at hotels

    While there’s no federal law requiring hotels to be free of bed bugs, most states and cities have health and sanitation codes that prohibit vermin or infestations. For example, Ohio’s code states, “No bedding which is infested with vermin or bedbugs shall be used on any bed in any hotel.”

    Bed bug exposure during travel is relatively common due to the number of guests in hotels, explains Allan Bossel, operations expert and professional bed bug exterminator at BBE Bed Bug Exterminator in Tampa Bay, Florida.

    “Large international events are the perfect opportunities for bed bugs to find new areas full of viable hosts,” he told Forbes.

    However, if a hotel fails to address known infestations or provide adequate care after a complaint, guests may have grounds for legal action.

    Here’s a practical guide on how to avoid bedbugs — and what to do if you find them.

    • Read reviews before you book: Check for recent reports of bed bugs or sanitation issues. A one-off complaint may not be a red flag, but repeated mentions are a concern.
    • Inspect the room before unpacking: Place your luggage in the tub or shower and check the bed. Look for reddish stains, tiny black dots, or live bugs near the seams of mattresses, headboards, chairs, and drawers.
    • Notify the hotel immediately: If you think your room has bed bugs, leave and notify the hotel as soon as possible. Hotels should act quickly to resolve the issue or reassign you.
    • Preserve evidence: Take photos of any visible bugs or bites. Save receipts for treatments and document interactions with hotel staff.
    • Treat your belongings: Wash and dry all clothes on high heat. If that’s not possible, seal items in plastic bags until they can be treated.
    • File a report: If the hotel fails to respond, contact your local or state health department or the state’s consumer protection office. Consider leaving an online review to warn other travelers.

    As this case shows, hotel guests have legal options if a property fails to address a known bed bug infestation, especially when management was previously informed and failed to act.

    “Evidence of negligence may include records of prior complaints, inadequate cleaning practices, or failure to inspect and treat rooms regularly,” says Shiner Law Group. “Negligence can also be established if the hotel or motel did not follow standard industry practices for pest control.”

    While many lawsuits settle out of court, this case sets a clear precedent, especially when victims allegedly suffer medical issues.

    If you’re considering legal action, consult with an attorney who specializes in premises liability, personal injury, or bed bug lawsuits.

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  • Disgraced ex-CEO of addiction treatment provider facing charges for $149M fraud now has detox center running out of his California home — neighbors say it’s ‘despicable’ it’s been allowed

    Disgraced ex-CEO of addiction treatment provider facing charges for $149M fraud now has detox center running out of his California home — neighbors say it’s ‘despicable’ it’s been allowed

    Sovereign Health Group, once one of the country’s largest addiction treatment providers, shut down in disgrace in 2018 — but former CEO Tonmoy Sharma appears to be back in business.

    As NBC4 Los Angeles reports, a detox and mental health facility called Dana Shores Recovery has opened in a home Sharma owns in San Juan Capistrano, a city in Southern California. The facility pays $10,000 a month to a business registered in Sharma’s name.

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    That leaves neighbors, addictions treatment advocates and at least one family whose son took his life at a Sovereign Health Group facility shocked.

    “I think all of the neighbors are really concerned,” one neighbor told NBC4 Los Angeles, noting that it is also of concern that a full-blown business is now operating 24/7 in a residential neighborhood.

    Laurie Girand, a driving force behind Advocates for Responsible Treatment in San Juan Capistrano, goes further.

    “This is completely despicable,” Girand said to NBC4. “How is it that the State of California, knowing everything it does know about Tonmoy Sharma, and about his history of Sovereign Health is allowing him to continue to profit off businesses that are related to addictions treatment or mental health?”

    Addictions treatment scandal

    This May, Sharma was arrested in connection with an ongoing federal investigation into the now-defunct Sovereign Health Group.

    He faces charges of wire fraud, conspiracy and $21 million in illegal kickbacks for patient referrals in connection with the now-defunct Sovereign Health Group. If found guilty on all counts, he faces up to 35 years in prison.

    Sharma’s former business is alleged to have submitted $149 million in false claims to private insurers.

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    These allegations have yet to be proven in court. But in 2022, Health Net Insurance won a $45-million fraud judgment in a suit against Sharma and Sovereign Health, as the Orange County Register reports.

    Meanwhile, Rose and Allen Nelson — who lost their son Brandon to suicide at Sovereign’s San Clemente facility in 2017 — settled with Sharma’s insurer for $11 million in 2024. They say they were lied to about the services the facility would provide.

    "It was marketed as, ‘He will have 24/7 oversight of psychologists, a house manager, psychiatrists would come in. They’d have group therapy,’” Rose Nelson told NBC4. “Nothing was provided…it was all lies.”

    Lack of licensing standards

    That Dana Shores Recovery could open in Sharma’s home despite his history shows a lack of licensing standards around mental health and addictions treatment, Girand argues.

    "There are virtually no standards,” she said. “No fingerprinting, there’s no review of criminal history. There’s nothing that will protect vulnerable individuals from being preyed upon.”

    She’s joining state legislators in calling for better oversight. California State Assemblymember Laurie Davies has introduced a number of bills designed to protect vulnerable families from predatory treatment facilities.

    If passed, these bills would set standards for licensed and certified treatment programs and increase transparency of state investigations into complaints around those programs.

    “These are common-sense measures that go straight to addressing the health, recovery, and safety of vulnerable patients,” said Davies.

    It’s a start — but critics say the system remains dangerously open to abuse.

    How to choose a legitimate treatment center

    With limited state oversight, families often bear the burden of vetting mental health and addiction recovery centers themselves. Here are a few steps that can help protect you or your loved one:

    • Check licenses and certifications. Verify the facility is licensed and has a clean track record.
    • Research the staff. Be wary if the facility doesn’t list the names or qualifications of its counselors and medical professionals. Legitimate providers are transparent about who’s on staff.
    • Watch for red flags. Vague answers, pushy intake staff, or promises of “miracle cures” all indicate shady operations. If it sounds too good to be true, take the time to dig deeper.
    • Get payment details in writing. Make sure any claims about cost coverage are spelled out clearly in writing and verified with your insurer.
    • Look up reviews and complaints. A web search, like this, can reveal lawsuits, disciplinary actions, or concerning patterns. Read both positive and negative reviews to get a balanced picture.

    For many families, the stakes couldn’t be higher. People entering treatment are often at their most vulnerable, and they deserve care from trustworthy professionals, not profiteers.

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