Forget Florida — these two unexpected states are the new retirement hot spots, offering lower costs, tax perks and a better quality of life for retirees
Retirees are flocking to certain states in large numbers. While their motivations aren’t entirely clear, the growing cost of living — especially property taxes — is a likely factor. A John Burns Research and Consulting study ranked states based on their highest and lowest median property tax rates. While it can be tempting to save […]
This Chicago man did something wild when alleged squatters wouldn’t leave his home — he moved in with them. Here’s how his ‘nightmare’ unfolded and why you should never follow his lead
When Marco Velazquez, a Chicago homeowner, discovered squatters living in his South Side property, he didn’t leave. Instead, he stayed the night. “I couldn’t believe it,” Velazquez told ABC 7 News, after finding the home he was preparing to sell was already occupied. “It was like a nightmare.” Don’t miss I’m 49 years old and […]
The San Diego owner of this popular Asian grocery store is scrambling for alternatives to Chinese imports as a tariff loophole expires — here’s how grocers and consumers are feeling the pinch
Last year, more than 1.36 billion shipments entered the U.S. duty-free thanks to a long-standing trade exemption for low-value shipments of $800 or less. Not anymore. That exemption expired just as the Trump administration hiked tariffs on imports — including produce and other household staples. That leaves small businesses like San Diego’s Vien Dong Supermarket […]
‘I thought maybe it was the UPS guy’: Florida family woken up by alligator scratching at their front door — here’s how to safeguard your home from gator gatecrashers
In a startling incident showcasing the unique challenges of Florida living, Courtney Beck and her family were awakened by an unexpected visitor — a large alligator attempting to enter their home. “That was just not what I was expecting,” Beck recounted to WSVN 7News in a story published May 11. “I thought maybe it was […]
This Phoenix couple discovered termites, faulty pipes and a hole in the wall within days of closing on their dream home — despite it having passed inspections. Here’s their warning for buyers
A Phoenix couple’s homebuying joy turned into a cautionary tale after termites, burst pipes and a hidden hole in the wall surfaced just days after they closed on a property. Hailey and Alex Aguire were thrilled to return to Arizona from the East Coast and settle into a remodeled home they’d secured after a quick […]
‘It’s heartbreaking’: More than 100 victims banded together through Facebook to seek justice after Houston business owner defrauded them of $1M — here’s how to spot a sketchy builder
For the third time, Amanda Sparks, the owner of A&L Sheds, has been arrested — this time, in Montgomery County, Texas. Authorities allege she scammed more than 100 people out of more than $1 million by promising to build sheds and tiny homes that were never delivered. Sparks’ previous arrests occurred in Gray and Harris […]
I’m 36, with 2 kids, and in the middle of a divorce. I’m moving home to my parents’ for a bit to save money — and I want to invest at least $3.5K/month for my future. Where do I start?
As a 30-something, rebuilding your life post-divorce can feel daunting, especially if there are a couple of kids involved. However, if you’ve moved back in with your parents and you’re starting with no debt and a steady monthly savings goal of $3,500, you’re in an incredibly strong position. Don’t miss I’m 49 years old and […]
I’m 31, make $117K/year, cover all household bills — yet my fiance refuses to chip in. Insists his cash is for ‘fun’ while I handle ‘responsibilities.’ Can I fix this before we get hitched?
For some, the road to marriage can look financially lopsided. Those in their 30s earning their fair share — say, more than $100,000 a year — may be used to covering 100% of their individual household expenses. However, it doesn’t typically feel good when a fiance refuses to contribute, claiming their money is only for […]
After the storm: How to financially weather home repairs and rising insurance costs
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 […]
Dave Ramsey sided with this Tennessee man in dispute with ‘free spirit’ wife who he said wasn’t pulling her weight — until the caller admitted she’s not working because she has Stage 4 cancer
During a recent episode of The Ramsey Show, Adam, from Knoxville, Tennessee, shared his ongoing struggles to maintain a household budget with his wife, who is battling Stage 4 cancer. Adam began by explaining that "There’s a fight every time we try to set a budget." He added, “She feels like I just make the […]