Author: Emma Caplan-Fisher

The U.S. Secret Service in New York has seized a second web domain tied to a growing type of cryptocurrency scam known as “pig butchering,” in which scammers build trust with their victims before financially gutting them through fake crypto investment platforms.

The Secret Service reports that from November 2023 to March 2024, the domain NFT-UNI.com was used in a scheme that defrauded a New York State victim out of $172,405.61. Other victims of the same site reportedly lost more than $4.5 million combined.

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“By seizing this website, we are able to strike a blow to a criminal organization that financially victimized numerous individuals, including a member of our community and senior citizens around the country,” said United States Attorney John A. Sarcone III.

This follows the seizure of another domain, OKEX-NFT.net, in May 2024. Both sites were part of a larger operation designed to lure victims into fake crypto investments that vanished without a trace once the funds were transferred.

What are pig butchering scams, and how do they work?

“Pig butchering” scams get their name from the process scammers use. Like fattening up a pig before slaughter, victims are groomed over time through fake online relationships, only to be financially exploited at the end.

Many people have lost a lot through these types of relationships, including their entire life savings and their homes.

Scammers typically initiate contact via social media, dating apps or messaging platforms. They create a friendly or romantic bond, slowly introducing the idea of investing in cryptocurrency. Once trust is gained, the scammer sends the victim a link to a professional-looking, but fake, trading platform — such as NFT-UNI.com in the New York case.

In this instance, the victim was led to believe they were participating in a legitimate crypto investment.

After they transferred money as instructed, the funds — more than $172,000 — were quickly laundered through numerous bank accounts to hide the source, ultimately becoming unrecoverable.

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The rise of pig butchering scams

Pig butchering scams are on the rise, particularly as cryptocurrency continues to become more mainstream and unregulated.

The FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) reported that investment scams cost victims more than $3.3 billion in 2022, with cryptocurrency-related schemes representing $2.57 billion — a 183% increase from $907 million the year before. Many of these were pig butchering cases.

Among these cases, older Americans are specifically targeted. The FBI’s 2023 Elder Fraud Report noted individuals over 60 experienced losses of $3.4 billion in 2023, an 11% increase from the previous year.

Tips to protect yourself from pig butchering scams

Keep these things in mind to protect yourself — and your aging loved ones — from pig butchering scams.

• Be skeptical of unsolicited online relationships, especially when conversations quickly shift to financial opportunities.
• Verify any investment platform through independent research. If a site isn’t listed on FINRA’s BrokerCheck or doesn’t have verifiable company information, it may be fake.
• Avoid apps or websites recommended by strangers, even if they look professional.
• Never send money or crypto to someone you’ve only met online.
• Consult a financial advisor or cybersecurity expert if you’re unsure about an investment opportunity.
• Report suspicious activity to the FTC or local law enforcement immediately.

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In a housing market that’s been pro-seller for a while, many Houston buyers have been scared off, choosing to rent instead. However, as things shift into buyer territory, Houstonians may soon see the scales tip in their favor, with more opportunities for discounts or other perks.

For instance, the Woolcoxes recently found their dream home. Despite expecting land and house prices to go up as they’d been seeing, the retired Houston couple decided to make an offer on a house they eventually got.

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A shifting Houston market

Wondering if they were "absolutely out of [their] minds," their kids advised against the purchase. Even as they were being told they should be downsizing, not upsizing, the Woolcoxes decided to put in on the house anyway. In an interview with KHOU 11, the couple shared, "If it’s really what you want and it feels right, just do it."

And there is indication their decision will pay off.

Kat Robinson, vice chair of the Houston Association of Realtors (HAR), told KHOU 11 that fear and — at times — frustration for potential buyers caused by the strong sellers’ market led many to give up, tipping the favour towards buyers.

"That negotiation fatigue is real," she said, and is something that led to an influx of housing inventory and the potential buyer’s market shift. Although technically, Houston is currently in a balanced market, "Right now we’re sitting on 4.5 months of inventory, which puts us leaning more towards that buyer’s market."

HAR confirms this tip when comparing property sales from February 2024 and February 2025, noting sales dropped 4.7%. According to Robinson, this means more opportunity for buyers, "To get a discount or more repairs done by the sellers or credits for those repairs."

How to take advantage of a buyer’s market

Even if you’re not in Houston yourself, a buyer’s market is the perfect time to purchase a home because supply exceeds demand — just as Houston is experiencing. This gives you more power in negotiations, including the ability to be pickier, take your time and strategize on price.

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If you feel the time might be right, maximize your opportunity with these tips:

Negotiate your price aggressively

Sellers in a buyers’ market may struggle to get offers, making them more open to price reductions. Take time to research comparable properties sold recently in your choice areas to determine a fair offer, and don’t be afraid to submit a bid below asking. If the home has been on the market for an extended period, you may have even more room to negotiate.

Ask for seller concessions

In a competitive market, buyers often cover many closing costs, but in a buyers’ market, you can ask the seller to help with expenses, which could save you thousands. These may include loan or appraisal fees, title insurance or even a home warranty. Why not put that money towards new furniture, or even in your nest egg, emergency fund or other investments? Even relatively small savings can make a meaningful difference, so ask for them.

Request home repairs or upgrades

Sellers eager to close a deal may be willing to make needed repairs, or even extra upgrades. When issues are identified after the home inspection, negotiate to have major concerns fixed before closing, or request a credit to cover the cost of repairs you oversee later.

In addition, consider taking advantage of these strategies:

Get pre-approved for a mortgage to move quickly

With more buyers competing for deals, getting pre-approved for a mortgage shows sellers you’re serious and financially prepared, which can make your offer more attractive.

Work with a local agent for market insights

A knowledgeable real estate agent can help you identify motivated sellers, hidden deals and properties that have been on the market too long, giving you an edge in negotiations. Agents also provide insight into fair pricing and trends in your area of interest.

Secure favorable loan terms

Lenders may offer better mortgage interest rates and terms when fewer buyers are in the market. You could potentially secure a lower mortgage rate, reducing your monthly payments and overall loan cost.

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Managing money isn’t just about staying on top of what you earn. It’s also about getting all the money you’re entitled to, including refunds.

That includes getting your security deposit back — no questions asked — when it comes time to move out of a rental unit.

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That’s sometimes easier said than done, even if your place is pristine on moving day. Maybe your deposit is withheld because you snuck a cat in or overlooked another building bylaw.

Perhaps your property manager arbitrarily decided he didn’t want to return your deposit, even though he’s legally obligated to do so.

It’s a good idea to be proactive to mitigate the risk that your deposit is withheld.

Understand your rights as a renter

Start by brushing up on your tenant rights. Be sure to look up your state’s laws and read your lease agreement thoroughly to understand all terms related to the security deposit.

This includes:

Maximum deposit amounts. Some states limit how much landlords can charge for a security deposit, capping it at one or two months’ rent.

Timeframe for return. Many states require landlords to return security deposits to tenants within 30 days of move-out, though some states give landlords up to 60 days to do so.

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Valid reasons for withholding. Landlords can only take a deduction out of your deposit for specific reasons, such as unpaid rent, property damage beyond normal wear and tear or excessive cleaning costs.

How to protect your security deposit

Here are some ways you can be proactive in protecting your security deposit.

1. Document the state of the property when you move in — and when you move out. Take high-resolution photos and videos of walls, floors, ceilings, appliances and fixtures in every room. Ensure the timestamp feature is enabled to prove when the images were taken. These images can serve as evidence in a dispute with your landlord. Some states require landlords to provide tenants with a move-in and move-out inspection checklist, which can further protect you.

2. Maintain open communication with your landlord about maintenance issues. If something needs fixing, notify your landlord promptly in writing and keep records of all correspondence. That way, you can prevent minor problems from escalating into costly repairs that could be deducted from your deposit.

3. Avoid damaging the property, and repair what you’re responsible for. Use furniture pads to prevent scratches on hardwood floors, avoid using nails or adhesive hooks on walls unless permitted and be cautious when moving furniture to avoid dents or chips. If you’re living with roommates, establish ground rules to ensure shared responsibility in maintaining the space, since everyone can be liable for damages.

If you do cause damage, consider fixing it yourself before moving out. Minor repairs are inexpensive and can prevent large deductions from your security deposit. Just get approval from your landlord first. Some may prefer to handle the repairs themselves, and unauthorized fixes could violate your lease.

4. Request a pre-move-out inspection. Many states give tenants the right to request a pre-move-out inspection, during which the landlord identifies any damages that could result in a deduction from the security deposit. This allows tenants the chance to address issues before they vacate.

5. Don’t forget to ask for your security deposit back. It may sound obvious, but make sure you ask for the deposit back. Be sure to put your request in writing and keep a copy.

By taking these steps, you can address problems ahead of time and take your security deposit with you when you move out.

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The heart of San Francisco’s Chinatown is under siege — not by bulldozers or policy bans, but by something just as destructive: the trade war.

The neighbourhood’s small shops are feeling the pinch from U.S. tariffs on China, which are now at 145%. The owners have weathered economic downturns for generations, shifting demographics, and even the pandemic. These businesses operate on small margins, face tight competition, and serve a largely elderly clientele living on fixed incomes.

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Edward Lau, who owns a shop selling China-imported herbal products and supplements for pain relief, is among the business owners worried about the impact. Raising prices to offset higher costs could drive customers away, gravely impacting their livelihoods. However, absorbing these increased costs indefinitely isn’t sustainable.

"It’s becoming more expensive so people will start thinking of alternatives or simply won’t use it … They’ll be hit really hard," Lau told CBS News. "The uncertainty makes it really hard to do business."

Although over 90% of North American manufacturers moved at least some of their production out of China between 2018 and 2023, small mom-and-pop businesses like Lau’s will continue to struggle under current conditions.

The impact of tariffs on small businesses

Tariffs are directly increasing the cost of imported goods — such as merchandise, food items and supplies — that small businesses rely on, both in San Francisco’s Chinatown and across the country.

Beyond higher costs, supply chain disruptions caused by tariffs can make some imports scarce or only available at steep prices.

As a result, owners struggle with strained cash flow and lower profit margins. Without financial reserves or a buffer, many have no choice but to raise prices or adjust their pricing strategies.

The longer these challenges persist, the greater the impact on customers. Many may turn to larger competitors, which benefit from economies of scale and can keep prices down.

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How consumers can cope — and help

If rising costs are affecting your go-to products, it can sting. The good news? There are ways to cope with the shift while also supporting small businesses.

• Buy locally sourced alternatives and make direct purchases from small businesses. This eliminates intermediaries, helping to keep costs down.
• Compare prices and hunt for discounts. Taking time to comparison shop, use coupons and plan around sales can make a difference.
• Consider generic brands or bulk purchases when they offer better value.
• Use a cash-back credit card. Many credit cards offer rewards based on spending categories. If you can pay your balance in full each month to avoid interest, you can turn everyday spending into extra savings.
• Consider vintage, refurbished or like-new its. Gently used or vintage goods are often more affordable. Many retailers also sell certified refurbished electronics and furniture at a fraction of the price of new ones. Just check for warranties and authentication where needed.
• Adjust your budget and lifestyle. Small tweaks — like dining out less, finding free or low-cost entertainment or hosting friends at home — can help absorb rising costs on essential purchases.

By making strategic choices, you can ease the financial strain while helping small businesses stay afloat.

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Some Florida homeowners hardest hit by hurricanes Milton and Helene must now also see their homes completely demolished or, if they’re lucky, elevated.

This follows a federal mandate that impacts majorly damaged homes — those impacted by natural disasters. Federal Emergency Management Agency’s (FEMA) 50% rule dictates that if a house is in a flood zone and local building officials deem it to be substantially damaged, straightforward repairs may not be sufficient.

The complex regulation kicks in when the repair costs exceed 50% of the home’s market value (the test for “substantially damaged”), amounting to hundreds of thousands of dollars for the homeowners.

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The impact of hurricanes Milton and Helene

Hurricane Milton took at least 24 lives in Florida and caused over $34.3 billion in damages last October, while just days prior, Hurricane Helene’s aftermath killed 34 in the state and caused over $78.7 billion in damages across the U.S.

The west coast barrier islands of Pinellas County were one of the state’s most impacted areas. Redington Shores resident Derek Brunney has lived in his home for over 20 years and has had to contend with it being demolished.

“You start seeing different events you had on the property. Weddings, birthdays, things like that. It just rehashed everything," Brunney told WFLA News Channel 8 On Your Side about the aftermath. "It’s one step forward, two, or three steps back. You get punched in the eye at the same time.”

The trouble for many homeowners like Brunney is that they still must pay for their insurance and utilities. But he — and many other Florida homeowners — still hold out hope for a better future.

“It’s slow,” he said. “It’s daunting. It’s exhausting, but it’s the only way you’re going to move forward right now until you get to the end of it.”

How to budget for the unexpected

When it comes to home repairs and rising insurance costs, you often can’t anticipate when they’ll hit. The key is to be prepared. While this isn’t a simple feat for many, there are some practical things you can start doing today to budget for the future and any rebuilding efforts.

Set aside emergency savings. Aim to save what you can each year for emergency repairs and maintenance. Ideally, your fund will cover three months worth of minimum monthly expenses, but if you’re in a disaster-prone area, you’ll need to prepare for more than the bare minimum because such expenses fall beyond the parameters of regular expenses. To get a sense of what you’d need to put away, you can try using a savings goal calculator, or plain old pencil and paper. While those funds sit tight, invest them independently in something that earns interest yet keeps them separate and accessible, like a high-yield savings account.

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Understand your insurance plan and exactly what you are and aren’t covered for. Review your home insurance policy in detail every year, and don’t hesitate to contact your agent to clarify terms. Ask questions. Document answers. Make sure you understand deductibles, exclusions and any limits on claims.

Prepare and save for increased premiums. Track trends in local insurance rates and adjust your budget accordingly. Even if you aren’t in an area of direct impact when it comes to natural disasters like fires and hurricanes, you may be surprised to learn, your premiums may still be going up. Others in “high-catastrophy states” may also need to prepare. Understand why this may be the case, and prepare to shop around for the best rates for the coverage you need, if necessary.

Future-proof your home against natural disasters. Start with small projects like installing storm shutters and sump pumps, reinforcing your roof and replacing lighter materials with more durable alternatives. Then, consider larger upgrades like hurricane resistance or seismic retrofits, and flood barriers. Fireproofing his home made all the difference for this California resident.

Look into state-wide programs to help offset costs. For example, Elevate Florida, the state’s first elevation mitigation program, was designed to "enhance community resilience by mitigating private residences against natural hazards." It provides eligible homeowners with at least 75% of their costs for structure elevation, mitigation reconstruction, acquisition/demolition or wind mitigation. Research and use all the programs and funds available to you.

With these measures, you can rest assured you are being proactive in protecting your home and your future.

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In November, just before Thanksgiving, Ben Phillips called Box Appliance, a San Francisco Bay Area appliance repair company he’d used before, to fix a leak in his 22-year-old refrigerator.

But this time around, after several visits and a $4,000 bill, the technician not only upsold him to replace the compressor, but they also didn’t actually fix the leak.

That’s when Phillips noticed there was not one but two Box Appliances online.

"I go, I’ve been taken here," he told ABC 7 News. "I can’t believe I fell for it."

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Phillips was later told by a real Box Appliance technician that the refrigerator couldn’t be repaired and, worse, that they wouldn’t have even taken the job. "That would have saved me," Phillips, whose temporary solution became a shower pan and paper towels, had responded.

The appliance scam

Box Appliance is fully aware someone is impersonating them, stealing thousands of dollars from their customers and not fixing their appliances.

"It’s really hard explaining to these customers that they were swindled, basically," Stephanie Chapman, Box Appliance customer service manager, told 7 News.

The scammers buy domains and domain extensions similar to their own, including "box-appliance" or "boxappliances.co," Chapman explained.

Then, according to Box Appliance president Ryan Bergo, they use sponsored ads to rank higher on Google, getting exposure and appointments. While he and his team have tried to have the fake sites removed, Bergo described it as playing whack-a-mole.

"We take one down and another one goes right back up," he told 7 News.

Regardless, the company is warning customers to ensure they’re on the correct website and calling the right phone number. Bergo also says real Box Appliance technicians have vans with Sub-Zero logos on them, whereas the impersonating technicians come in unmarked vehicles.

Victims have filed reports, and the Santa Clara County Sheriff’s Office is one agency investigating the issue — and trying to find those posting the fake sites. They want to hear from anyone in the county who’s been impacted.

"We’re seeing this not only in the Bay Area but across the state," Brooks Jarosz, senior communications officer with the Santa Clara County Sheriff’s Office, told the news channel.

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How to protect yourself and avoid financial losses

Although Phillips wasn’t so lucky, there are things you can do to protect yourself and avoid falling victim to similar scams.

• Verify service providers through trusted sources, like the Better Business Bureau. You can also use the Bureau of Household Goods and Services or other similar resources to verify the license of a repair company and confirm their legitimacy.

• Check for official certifications. If a company claims they hold a certification, look it up. Spend time researching the certifying body’s website or calling the organization to verify what their certification means and that the business in question is being honest.

• Check company reviews. There will always be poor reviews and less-than-happy customers, but the red flag to watch for is if the company is consistently low-rated across the board. Be sure to look at reviews not only on their website but also on third-party sites, like Google or Yelp.

• Understand how to report fraud. If you do end up victimized by a scam, visit the Federal Trade Commission’s site, ReportFraud.ftc.gov, to report it and see if you are eligible for available support. You can also check your state’s consumer protection office for additional information and resources.

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A Reddit post that went viral spurred debate around seat-swapping on flights and issues of fairness, entitlement and airplane etiquette.

The "finally said no" poster in the "r/delta" forum shared their experience with a couple asking to swap seats so they could sit together.

Describing themselves as a lifelong "people pleaser," the poster explained they’d often agreed other times. But this time, they weren’t interested in giving up their aisle seat for a middle one.

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“I looked at this woman and her husband and simply said, ‘no thanks,’” they wrote.

“The look on her face! You would’ve thought I slapped her.”

Despite some initial guilt, the poster maintained their decision as the couple’s behavior and comments "steeled my nerves." The woman, on the verge of tears, stated that her trip would be "absolutely awful" without her husband beside her.

The debate

The story drew significant attention. Commenters applauded the decision and shared similar experiences, suggesting that the couple could have paid for seat selection and that there should be mutual benefit when switching seats. One commenter also wrote, “If you’re brave enough to ask, you have to be brave enough to handle a NO."

The post highlights how passengers broadly view personal boundaries on flights. While some view these requests as innocent and situational, others argue they’re presumptuous — especially when made without offering a comparable seat or when the seats weren’t selected in advance. It’s often about asserting personal comfort and agency in a high-stress, confined environment.

"The person making the request has no right to expect [this] or make a scene when they don’t get their way,” etiquette expert Rosalinda Randall told Fox News.

Randall pointed out the circumstances when it might be reasonable or only mildly inconvenient to switch: during a short flight, when there’s a comparable seat elsewhere or if you’d prefer to sit apart from your current neighbor.

Similarly, a commenter said they would only give up their seat for a person bumped from another flight and consequently split up from their child or someone with special needs.

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Secure ideal seats and avoid the swap dilemma

To avoid the discomfort of being asked to switch seats or feeling pressured to ask someone to switch for you, it’s important to plan ahead. Remember, while consumer rights vary by airline, typically, seat assignments aren’t guaranteed unless reserved.

Here are some tips to get your preferred seating arrangement:

• Book early. The earlier you book your flight, the better your chances of selecting desirable seats, especially when traveling with others.
• Use seat selection tools. Most airlines offer online seat maps from which to choose seats during booking or check-in.
• Join loyalty programs. Frequent flyer status can offer you early seat selection access, preferred seating options or complimentary upgrades.
• Pay for preferred seats. If sitting together is important, consider the upgrade fee for guaranteed adjacent seats.

How to navigate the conversation smoothly

Despite best efforts, the switching question can still come up. But seat-swapping doesn’t have to be tense. Come from a place of humility and understanding. If you’re asking, do so politely and, obviously, never with the assumption that someone is obligated to accommodate you.

Likewise, if you’re asked and feel uncomfortable responding, remember, you’re entitled to the seat you booked. Standing your ground and advocating for yourself will bring you peace of mind.

You can be kind and respectful yet firm and assertive, without guilt. Short, direct responses are usually best, and you don’t owe anyone an explanation. Here are a few polite yet assured things to say:

• “No, thank you — I prefer to keep this seat,” is concise and clear.
• “I specifically booked this seat,” indicates your choice wasn’t random.
• “Sorry, but I’m not comfortable switching,” courteously sets a boundary.

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In a housing market that’s been pro-seller for a while, many Houston buyers have been scared off, choosing to rent instead. However, as things shift into buyer territory, Houstonians may soon see the scales tip in their favor, with more opportunities for discounts or other perks.

For instance, the Woolcoxes recently found their dream home. Despite expecting land and house prices to go up as they’d been seeing, the retired Houston couple decided to make an offer on a house they eventually got.

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A shifting Houston market

Wondering if they were "absolutely out of [their] minds," their kids advised against the purchase. Even as they were being told they should be downsizing, not upsizing, the Woolcoxes decided to put in on the house anyway. In an interview with KHOU 11, the couple shared, "If it’s really what you want and it feels right, just do it."

And there is indication their decision will pay off.

Kat Robinson, vice chair of the Houston Association of Realtors (HAR), told KHOU 11 that fear and — at times — frustration for potential buyers caused by the strong sellers’ market led many to give up, tipping the favour towards buyers.

"That negotiation fatigue is real," she said, and is something that led to an influx of housing inventory and the potential buyer’s market shift. Although technically, Houston is currently in a balanced market, "Right now we’re sitting on 4.5 months of inventory, which puts us leaning more towards that buyer’s market."

HAR confirms this tip when comparing property sales from February 2024 and February 2025, noting sales dropped 4.7%. According to Robinson, this means more opportunity for buyers, "To get a discount or more repairs done by the sellers or credits for those repairs."

How to take advantage of a buyer’s market

Even if you’re not in Houston yourself, a buyer’s market is the perfect time to purchase a home because supply exceeds demand — just as Houston is experiencing. This gives you more power in negotiations, including the ability to be pickier, take your time and strategize on price.

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If you feel the time might be right, maximize your opportunity with these tips:

Negotiate your price aggressively

Sellers in a buyers’ market may struggle to get offers, making them more open to price reductions. Take time to research comparable properties sold recently in your choice areas to determine a fair offer, and don’t be afraid to submit a bid below asking. If the home has been on the market for an extended period, you may have even more room to negotiate.

Ask for seller concessions

In a competitive market, buyers often cover many closing costs, but in a buyers’ market, you can ask the seller to help with expenses, which could save you thousands. These may include loan or appraisal fees, title insurance or even a home warranty. Why not put that money towards new furniture, or even in your nest egg, emergency fund or other investments? Even relatively small savings can make a meaningful difference, so ask for them.

Request home repairs or upgrades

Sellers eager to close a deal may be willing to make needed repairs, or even extra upgrades. When issues are identified after the home inspection, negotiate to have major concerns fixed before closing, or request a credit to cover the cost of repairs you oversee later.

In addition, consider taking advantage of these strategies:

Get pre-approved for a mortgage to move quickly

With more buyers competing for deals, getting pre-approved for a mortgage shows sellers you’re serious and financially prepared, which can make your offer more attractive.

Work with a local agent for market insights

A knowledgeable real estate agent can help you identify motivated sellers, hidden deals and properties that have been on the market too long, giving you an edge in negotiations. Agents also provide insight into fair pricing and trends in your area of interest.

Secure favorable loan terms

Lenders may offer better mortgage interest rates and terms when fewer buyers are in the market. You could potentially secure a lower mortgage rate, reducing your monthly payments and overall loan cost.

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Managing money isn’t just about staying on top of what you earn. It’s also about getting all the money you’re entitled to, including refunds.

That includes getting your security deposit back — no questions asked — when you move out of a rental unit.

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That’s sometimes easier said than done, even if your place is pristine on moving day. Maybe your deposit is withheld because you snuck a cat in or overlooked another building bylaw.

Perhaps your property manager arbitrarily decided he didn’t want to return your deposit, even though he’s legally obligated to do so.

It’s a good idea to be proactive to mitigate the risk that your deposit is withheld.

Understand your rights as a renter

Start by brushing up on your tenant rights. Be sure to look up your state’s laws and read your lease agreement thoroughly to understand all terms related to the security deposit.

This includes:

Maximum deposit amounts. Some states limit how much landlords can charge for a security deposit, capping it at one or two months’ rent.

Timeframe for return. Many states require landlords to return security deposits to tenants within 30 days of move-out, though some states give landlords up to 60 days to do so.

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Valid reasons for withholding. Landlords can only take a deduction out of your deposit for specific reasons, such as unpaid rent, property damage beyond normal wear and tear or excessive cleaning costs.

How to protect your security deposit

Here are some ways you can be proactive in protecting your security deposit.

1. Document the state of the property when you move in — and when you move out. Take high-resolution photos and videos of walls, floors, ceilings, appliances and fixtures in every room. Ensure the timestamp feature is enabled to prove when the images were taken. These images can serve as evidence in a dispute with your landlord. Some states require landlords to provide tenants with a move-in and move-out inspection checklist, which can further protect you.

2. Maintain open communication with your landlord about maintenance issues. If something needs fixing, notify your landlord promptly in writing and keep records of all correspondence. That way, you can prevent minor problems from escalating into costly repairs that could be deducted from your deposit.

3. Avoid damaging the property, and repair what you’re responsible for. Use furniture pads to prevent scratches on hardwood floors, avoid using nails or adhesive hooks on walls unless permitted and be cautious when moving furniture to avoid dents or chips. If you’re living with roommates, establish ground rules to ensure shared responsibility in maintaining the space, since everyone can be liable for damages.

If you do cause damage, consider fixing it yourself before moving out. Minor repairs are inexpensive and can prevent large deductions from your security deposit. Just get approval from your landlord first. Some may prefer to handle the repairs themselves, and unauthorized fixes could violate your lease.

4. Request a pre-move-out inspection. Many states give tenants the right to request a pre-move-out inspection, during which the landlord identifies any damages that could result in a deduction from the security deposit. This allows tenants the chance to address issues before they vacate.

5. Don’t forget to ask for your security deposit back. It may sound obvious, but make sure you ask for the deposit back. Be sure to put your request in writing and keep a copy.

By taking these steps, you can address problems ahead of time and take your security deposit with you when you move out.

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

Kay and Ryan Zin spent a year and more than $300,000 on permits and renovations before opening Bay of Burma restaurant in San Francisco’s South of Market area in 2023.

The business owners leased space on the ground level of a mixed-use building, with residences upstairs. The day after their grand opening, they learned the city was turning the residences into a homeless shelter for youth.

"We didn’t have any clue what is happening on the building," Kay told ABC7 News in San Francisco.

With the shelter slated to open April 2025, the Zins feel trapped. They want to relocate, but that would mean breaking their lease and losing the money they invested in their existing restaurant.

"We are the tenants, too,” Ryan said. “We don’t want to deal with everything that we don’t want to because we want to focus on our business, but our hands are tied."

Balancing social needs with business concerns

The city chose the location because it complements other city-run supports nearby, including an addiction treatment center, a sobering center and homeless shelter.

But area businesses are concerned about increased crime. The Zins’ restaurant has already been robbed twice — at gunpoint. Small businesses are worried would-be customers will stay away due to growing safety concerns.

"I just wanted to relocate to a safer place," said Kay.

For over a year, the Zins have been communicating with the city’s Homelessness and Supportive Housing (HSH) department about their concerns. They want the city to refund their $300,000-plus investment so they can move.

HSH supervisor Matt Dorsey told ABC7 News is willing to help the Zins and that he doesn’t “want to do anything that will hurt a small business.”

“They didn’t sign up for this,” he said. “They want out. I’m happy to have that conversation and bring my office in negotiating that.”

Dorsey added that the city will be providing round-the-clock “ambassador services” in the neighborhood to address concerns about safety. He said there will also be onsite security in the shelter overnight.

When local policy impact local businesses

Small business owners in situations like the Zins may feel stuck, but there are steps to mitigate risk, advocate for support and deal with risk.

Understand your rights. Before signing a lease, it’s critical to review any clauses about building ownership changes, city takeovers or early termination rights. If you’re already leasing, consult your lease agreement to see if the landlord violated any disclosure or notification requirements. Commercial tenants may have rights depending on lease terms and local ordinances.

Build alliances with other small businesses. You’re stronger together. Join or form a merchant association or collaborate with nearby businesses to share advocacy, safety initiatives and resources. Voice collective concerns to city officials or neighborhood councils.

Adapt to change. If your customer base shifts, consider adjusting your business model. This might include offering delivery or pickup to reach customers reluctant to visit in person, expanding your online presence or hosting community events to foster positive engagement.

Seek legal or financial advice. If you’re facing eviction, unexpected relocation or damages, consult a legal expert with experience in commercial property law. Additionally, a financial adviser can help you create a plan for relocation, recovery or assistance applications.

Apply for local or state grants and aid. Your municipality or state may offer grants to support small businesses facing displacement or hardship, covering things like relocation, lease assistance and infrastructure improvements.

Engage with city officials and local media. Make your voice heard by attending public meetings or speaking to local representatives. Raising awareness through media as the Zins did can also amplify your situation and potentially bring support or solutions.

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