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  • Detroit cop suspended after being caught on his own bodycam stealing $600 from a suspect’s purse — but here’s who really pays the price for police misconduct

    Detroit cop suspended after being caught on his own bodycam stealing $600 from a suspect’s purse — but here’s who really pays the price for police misconduct

    A Detroit police officer has been suspended without pay after he was allegedly caught stealing $600 from a suspect’s purse. While he hasn’t been charged yet, the evidence is strong — it comes from his own body camera.

    “Our (internal affairs) lieutenant took a look at the video and immediately recognized that we had a criminal act here,” Commander Michael McGinnis told WXYZ Detroit.

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    The officer is a four-year veteran of the Detroit Police Department. Here’s what happened, and why it matters beyond one traffic stop.

    What happened

    On March 7, three officers — including the accused — pulled over a car involved in a suspected drug deal. After a search, they found illegal drugs and arrested the driver and passenger.

    When the suspects were later released, the woman in the passenger seat reported that about $600 was missing from her purse. She filed a complaint with the Office of the Chief Investigator.

    The theft was “obvious” on the accused’s body camera, McGinnis told WXYZ Detroit. An envelope of cash disappeared from the woman’s purse while the camera was recording. There’s no evidence the other two officers were involved or even aware of what happened.

    While police can seize possessions connected to illegal activity — a practice known as civil asset forfeiture — in this case, the missing money wasn’t mentioned in the police report, listed in inventory or placed into evidence.

    The department is now reviewing the officer’s other body camera footage to see if similar incidents have occurred.

    Commissioner Ricardo Moore, who oversees the department, told WXYZ Detroit that officers often fail to turn on their body cameras or shut them off during stops.

    “I’m just happy that the body-worn camera situation worked,” Moore said. “I’ve been lobbying because a lot of officers turn off the body-worn cameras.”

    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

    The financial toll of police misconduct

    Police misconduct doesn’t just erode public trust — it also comes at a cost to taxpayers.

    When lawsuits are filed against officers for misconduct, cities or counties typically provide legal representation. Whether a case settles or goes to trial, it’s the government, not the officer, that usually foots the bill.

    “Every year, taxpayers in cities and counties across the country pay hundreds of millions of dollars to settle lawsuits filed in response to police misconduct, lawsuits that are often settled in secret by municipalities to quietly bury criticism and controversy,” Rep. Don Beyer and Sen. Tim Kaine wrote in a 2021 op-ed for CNBC.

    At that time, Beyer and Kaine had introduced the Cost of Police Misconduct Act, which would have required law enforcement agencies to report annual spending on misconduct judgments and settlements to the Department of Justice. The bill, however, did not become law.

    According to their op-ed, taxpayers cover these costs through premiums on municipal liability insurance or, in many larger cities, through general or dedicated funds.

    “The money taxpayers spend on police misconduct has the potential to defund other municipal services, including those proven to prevent crime,” Beyer and Kaine wrote.

    In other words, millions of dollars in judgments and settlements can divert funds from education, infrastructure and other public priorities.

    A 2022 investigation by The Washington Post found that the 25 largest police departments in the U.S. had spent $3.2 billion on settlements over the past decade. In 2024 alone, Chicago taxpayers paid $107.5 million in misconduct lawsuits, while New York City paid more than $205 million, according to Window to the World (WTTW).

    Police misconduct also carries a wider cost when it damages community relations or leads to civil unrest.

    In 2020, after the death of George Floyd, protests in 140 cities were mostly peaceful, but some incidents of arson, vandalism and looting led to insured property losses estimated at $1 billion to $2 billion, according to Axios.

    And sometimes, all it takes is one incident to tarnish the reputation of an entire department.

    “I wouldn’t be doing my job if I wasn’t worried,” McGinnis said. “What worries me is that this is an officer wearing a police uniform stealing from the citizens.

    “I see it as just him doing it, but the rest of the world sees it as Detroit police stealing. And that’s just not the case.”

    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.

  • Indiana Pacers swoop in with buzzer beater to save local mom-and-pop bakery from losing thousands after being tricked by a scammer posing as a team executive — what to watch out for

    Indiana Pacers swoop in with buzzer beater to save local mom-and-pop bakery from losing thousands after being tricked by a scammer posing as a team executive — what to watch out for

    The Sweet Escape Cake Company in Indianapolis is warning other small businesses of new scam tactics after they were duped by a fraudster pretending to be connected to the Indiana Pacers.

    Styles McCorkle, a Sweet Escape employee, told local news station Fox 59 that the business was contacted by email, with the scammer pretending to be Dean Heaviland, the vice president of operations for Pacers Sports and Entertainment. As their company had done work for the Pacers before, and other teams such as the Fever and Indianapolis Colts, the email didn’t seem suspicious.

    The scammer offered the company a vendor booth at Game 4, and Sweet Escape’s owner reports that between labor and supplies, they spent $4,000 on preparing, only to find they got duped.

    Here’s how Sweet Escape was duped, and how you can avoid similar scams.

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    NBA finals fever sweeps the city

    The Indianapolis Pacers experienced an unprecedented surge in ticket demand following their remarkable showing in the NBA finals. On June 19, the team delivered a memorable performance in Game 6, which led to the first Game 7 finals matchup in nearly ten years. Despite their valiant effort, the Pacers ultimately fell short against the Oklahoma City Thunder in a closely contested championship decider.

    The opportunity to have a booth at a major game was too good to pass up, according to Sweet Escape employees. What’s more, the scammer offered the booth for only $400.

    “So, we were super excited for an opportunity like this,” McCorkle said. “So next day, we take that opportunity and decide we are going to go through with it, paid our invoice for the spot and everything, nothing was too inconvenient.”

    Upon replying to the email to inquire about their booth location, they received a bounce-back notification. They soon realized they had fallen victim to a scam perpetrated by someone impersonating Dean Heaviland. The business had already prepared numerous Pacers-themed treats, adding significant strain to their already busy schedule of Father’s Day orders.

    “I came into work the next day, I was devastated,” McCorkle said. “Like we were really excited to have this opportunity to put our face out there and be in front of Gainbridge Fieldhouse.”

    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

    A sweet ending

    The disappointment at Sweet Escape didn’t last long. Upon learning about the situation, Pacers executives stepped in and purchased all the Game 4 products that had been prepared. This generous move ensured the small, family-owned bakery wouldn’t suffer any financial losses.

    “It gives me goosebumps because when my dad told me the next day, ‘Hey, by the way, I just got off the phone, Megan said they are going to buy everything,’ it was like a weight lifted off the chest and none of it was in vain,” McCorkle said. “We even got refunded for our initial deposit so, it was only gain.”

    “For an organization as big as the Pacers to care about a small business like us, and have that attention, like ‘Hey we understand the situation, we like you guys already, so we are going to take this off of your hands, like whoever did the scam, thank you for that,” McCorkle said. “Like, it worked out for us in the end.”

    How to spot scams

    Today’s fraudsters employ increasingly advanced techniques. In this incident, the scammer exploited Sweet Escape’s existing relationship with the Pacers to appear legitimate. According to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), criminals frequently impersonate trusted contacts, making it essential to verify email addresses against previous communications from your clients or business partners. To confirm someone’s identity, consider requesting a phone conversation or in-person meeting to ensure you’re communicating with an authentic representative.

    The FTC also advises small business owners that scammers will often ask for payment through unusual means, such as wire transfers, cryptocurrency, or gift cards. Asking for payment in this way is a red flag, especially from an established company.

    Scammers create a false sense of urgency to force quick decisions. In the Sweet Escape incident, the fraudster leveraged the upcoming Game 4 as pressure, possibly claiming the vendor booth would be reassigned if the team didn’t act immediately. This pressure tactic prevents victims from carefully considering the situation. In contrast, legitimate business relationships typically provide reasonable timeframes for decision-making without applying excessive pressure.

    To protect your small business from scams, it’s essential to stay informed about the latest fraud prevention guidance from government agencies and ensure all staff members receive comprehensive training on recognizing scam attempts. Many businesses that fall victim to fraudsters don’t recover as successfully as Sweet Escape did.

    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.

  • Dave Ramsey just issued a blunt reality check to people under 40: ‘If you don’t retire a millionaire, that’s no one’s fault but yours.’ Here’s the math to hit $11,600,000 at 65

    Dave Ramsey just issued a blunt reality check to people under 40: ‘If you don’t retire a millionaire, that’s no one’s fault but yours.’ Here’s the math to hit $11,600,000 at 65

    While the headlines have been dominated by a rollercoaster in the stock market, financial guru Dave Ramsey isn’t going doom and gloom.

    In fact, the radio host believes every young North American has a shot at becoming a millionaire.

    “If you’re under 40 years old and you don’t retire a millionaire, that’s no one’s fault but yours,” the 64-year-old said on X, formerly known as Twitter..

    Here’s a closer look at the math behind his exhortation.

    Everyone can be a millionaire

    Despite the economic challenges facing young Canadians, Ramsey believes that the average 25-year-old needs to save just a fraction of their annual income to retire at 65 with over $1 million.

    However, his thesis assumes that this 25-year-old invests in “good growth stock mutual funds.” According to his calculations, diligently investing just $100 a month into such growth funds could create a $1,176,000 nest egg within 40 years.

    Ramsey doesn’t mention any specific growth funds, but his calculations imply a roughly 12.85% annual growth rate.

    For example, the Vanguard S&P 500 ETF (TSX: VFV) has delivered a compounded annual growth rate of 16.93% since its inception in 2012.

    In fact, the S&P 500 has delivered an average annual return of 10.13% since 1957, according to Investopedia.

    Given the long-term performance of these index funds, Ramsey’s assumption doesn’t seem unreasonable, even when you take into account the recent volatility in the stock market in response to U.S. President Donald Trump’s tariff announcements. There have been many shocks, dips, corrections and outright crashes in the past 100 years, and the market has always eventually bounced back.

    If you want to begin your investing journey but aren’t sure where to begin, Wealthsimple Invest creates a smart investment portfolio tailored to your needs to help you achieve your financial goals.

    With low fees, these expert-managed portfolios are designed to withstand market fluctuations, helping you make the most of your money.

    What’s more, you can automate your monthly contributions through RRSPs and TFSAs, and Wealthsimple takes care of the little things, like asset allocation, rebalancing your portfolio, and reinvesting dividends.

    Wealthsimple’s advisors are fiduciaries — meaning they are legally required to put your financial interests first.

    The best part? You’ll get $25 bonus when you open your first Wealthsimple account and fund at least C$1 within 30 days.

    Ramsey’s path to $11.6 million

    The four variables of the compound growth calculation are time, initial investment, regular investment and growth rate. Of these, the only variable you can somewhat control is regular investment.

    Investing $200 or $300 a month could help you create a nest egg significantly bigger than just $1 million. Ramsey recommends setting the bar even higher at 15% of gross annual income.

    “The average household income in America today is US$79,000. If you invested 15% of that (US$11,850 a year), you would retire with around US$11.6 million,” he said on X.

    The average household income for Canadians is C$70,500. Following Ramsey’s rule, you would need to invest C$10,575 per year to maximize your retirement fund.

    However, most Canadians are saving significantly less than Ramsey’s target. In the third quarter of 2024, the average household savings rate in Canada was 6.10%, down from 7.30% in the third quarter of 2024. The rising cost of living, stagnant wage growth and debt servicing costs are barriers most families face regardless of age.

    One common financial mistake is keeping your money in low-interest savings accounts. High-yield savings accounts can offer returns up to 10 times higher than those from traditional banks, according to NBC Select and Dynata Banking Behaviors.

    If you’re looking for the best bank for your savings, you can open a high-interest savings account with Simplii Financial and earn 4.25% APY on eligible deposits for the first four months. Plus, Simplii Financial charges no account, monthly, or transaction fees.

    Unlike Guaranteed Investment Certificates (GICs), you can access and withdraw funds anytime you want from your Simplii Financial account.

    Leveling up your investments

    Amid the ongoing market volatility and escalating tensions between the U.S. and Canada, it’s crucial to protect your portfolio against risks.

    Diversifying your investments across multiple asset classes — such as stocks, bonds and ETFs — can help you significantly hedge against market risk.

    Opening a discount brokerage account with CIBC Investor’s Edge can help you diversify your portfolio without having to pay exorbitant commissions on trades.

    Plus, you don’t have to pay any account or maintenance fees for RRSPs with a balance of over C$25,000, and TFSAs and non-registered accounts with a balance higher than C$10,000.

    CIBC Investor’s Edge charges a discounted commission rate of C$4.95 per trade for active traders making over 150 trades in a quarter.

    If you open your CIBC Investor’s Edge account before Sept. 30, you can get up to 100 free equity trades and over $200 in cash back.

    Other paths to become a millionaire

    Homeownership can be a key stepping stone to reaching millionaire status by retirement. Once you’ve decided on the kind of house you want to purchase, shop around and compare mortgage rates offered by reputable lenders near you through Loans Canada.

    Here’s how it works: Select the kind of loan you want to get and submit an application, and Loans Canada will sort through its network and display the best possible offers for you.

    Those who want to refinance their existing mortgage can compare refinancing rates offered by leading lenders through Loans Canada.

    Refinancing your home loan through Loans Canada could help you pay off your mortgage early in two ways. By securing a lower interest rate, you can either maintain your current monthly payment while more of it goes toward the principal, or you can opt for a shorter loan term to accelerate your path to homeownership.

    The best part? You can apply for a mortgage or refinance loans even with poor credit — and it’s 100% free.

    Sources

    1. X:@daveramsey

    2. Investopedia:S&P 500 Average Returns and Historical Performance (Dec 26, 2024)

    3. Statistics Canada:Quality of life Indicator

    4. Trading Economics:Canada Household Savings Rate

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

  • ‘It’s just a little backyard’: Neighbors say this Florida home appears to be running an unlicensed restaurant out back — complete with propane tanks, industrial fans and cocktail tables

    ‘It’s just a little backyard’: Neighbors say this Florida home appears to be running an unlicensed restaurant out back — complete with propane tanks, industrial fans and cocktail tables

    It’s not exactly strange to hear noise coming from a neighbor’s home. Maybe they’re hosting a birthday party or firing up the grill for a family barbecue. That’s just part of suburban life.

    But what’s happening on Northwest First Court in Miami Gardens is something entirely different.

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    On an otherwise peaceful residential street, one single-family home has transformed into what appears to be a takeout restaurant.

    “There’s no drive-thru window, but the orders are flying out the door,” one neighbor, who asked not to be identified, told Local 10 News. “It could be in the early morning, around this time. It could be at night. It’s constant.”

    Those who spoke with Local 10 asked to stay anonymous, but they described the same thing: a steady stream of cars, takeout containers being handed off like clockwork and a home that’s more kitchen than living space.

    But is this just a savvy home chef cashing in on a side hustle, or could it pose a bigger problem for the community?

    Off the books but on the radar

    To get a better sense of what’s going on, Local 10 spent several hours outside the home and observed a constant flow of customers picking up food.

    One man, spotted walking around the side of the house, told reporters he wasn’t a customer — just a friend. Still, he admitted he was there to pick up food, listing off items like oxtail, rice and peas, as well as chicken. When asked if the house was operating as a restaurant, he denied it.

    “No, it’s not a restaurant. It’s just a backyard,” he said, adding that the food was not free when pressed by reporters.

    Starting a business or side hustle today isn’t easy. According to LendingTree, over 1 in 5 private sector businesses that launched in March 2023 had failed by March 2024.

    With inflation holding steady at 3.5% year over year, it’s no surprise some entrepreneurs are looking for ways to cut overhead costs — skipping storefronts altogether and finding more creative (and quiet) ways to keep the money coming in. Even if that means operating out of a backyard.

    But just because it makes business sense doesn’t mean it sits well with the neighbors.

    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

    Cooking up trouble

    With inflation squeezing household budgets, many Americans are turning to unconventional income streams — even if it means bending a few rules.

    Neighbors say the backyard setup includes propane tanks, industrial fans and cocktail tables — signs that this isn’t your average weekend cookout. Behind the house, there’s reportedly a shed that’s been converted into a kitchen, suggesting a much larger operation than what’s legally allowed in a residential area.

    According to Florida’s Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, running a food business from a private home is prohibited. This property has never passed a food safety inspection and isn’t licensed for commercial use — a red flag for both consumers and the neighborhood.

    “If there is a fire, God forbid, my house is gone,” one neighbor said. “I’m very concerned. It is dangerous right now.”

    Property records show the home belongs to Mardelle Gitters, a former restaurant owner whose Opa-locka business has since closed. While several neighbors claim they’ve reported the issue to city officials, Miami Gardens Assistant City Manager Tamara Wadley said there are no official complaints on file with police or code enforcement.

    For now, the operation continues. But while side hustles can be a smart financial move, cutting corners on safety and legality can end up costing more than it’s worth.

    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.

  • I’m 52, putting away at least 10% of my paycheck for retirement — but my husband isn’t saving anything and has no plans to. What should I do?

    I’m 52, putting away at least 10% of my paycheck for retirement — but my husband isn’t saving anything and has no plans to. What should I do?

    We adhere to strict standards of editorial integrity to help you make decisions with confidence. Some or all links contained within this article are paid links.

    Jada, 52, is facing the existential dread of retirement. She doesn’t even plan to clock out until she turns 65, and she’s been saving for her golden years since her mid-20s.

    But her husband of 20 years hasn’t put aside anything for retirement, and he doesn’t plan to. He’s relying on his pension and Social Security retirement benefits — along with Jada’s savings — to finance their golden years.

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    Jada worries he doesn’t understand how much they’ll need in retirement, and feels resentful that she’s making all the sacrifices for their future. Now, she’s left wondering what to do next, and if they’ll be alright.

    What if your spouse isn’t saving for retirement?

    First things first, you’ll want to have a conversation about your expectations. But that can be easier said than done with one in three Americans (32%) saying they’re uncomfortable discussing finances in their relationship, according to a Talker Research survey.

    In Jada and her husband’s case, they should start by ensuring they’re on the same page with their goals. Not to mention, how much they’ll need to reach those goals. A general rule of thumb is to aim for about 60% to 80% of your pre-retirement income. If Jada and her husband are finding it difficult to talk or even crunch the numbers, they may want to enlist the help of a financial adviser.

    They know the right questions to ask to help you figure out your shared retirement goals.

    With Advisor.com, you can find a vetted financial advisor that offers personalized advice, guiding you towards the right choices for the retirement you’ve always dreamed of. They can help you get your retirement mapped out today.

    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

    Strategies for saving for retirement later in life

    Once you’re aligned on your goals, it’s time to work together to make them happen. That might look like a spousal IRA (aimed at helping a non-working spouse), 401(k)s and IRAs as individual accounts.

    Jada’s husband would greatly benefit from opening a 401(k) and funding it to the maximum amount — especially if his employer matches his contributions.

    Jada’s husband could also contribute to a Roth IRA, which uses after-tax dollars and grows tax-free. That means, as long as he follows the withdrawal rules, those withdrawals aren’t taxed as income.

    To take advantage of the benefits of diversification, Jada and her husband could also open a gold IRA with the help of Priority Gold.

    Gold IRAs allow investors to hold physical gold or gold-related assets within a retirement account, which combines the tax advantages of an IRA with the protective benefits of investing in gold, making it an attractive option for those looking to potentially hedge their retirement funds against economic uncertainties.

    To learn more, you can get a free information guide that includes details on how to get up to $10,000 in free silver on qualifying purchases.

    They’d also benefit from her husband beginning to invest as soon as he can. The power of compound returns means that the longer they give their money to grow, the more they’ll benefit.

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    Open your account today and receive a $50 bonus to jumpstart your investment journey. Whether you’re saving for retirement, a home, or building generational wealth, Wealthfront’s low-cost, automated investment strategy can help you achieve your financial goals.

    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.

  • This North Carolina woman paid $320K for a custom home only to end up with 2 partial, rotting walls — and her real estate agent is suffering the consequences, too

    Following years of complaints, North Carolina real estate agent Joy Cotto had her real estate license suspended for two years, reports Queen City News. Homeowners allege Cotto sold them land lots and hired her husband, Mario Cotto, to build new construction houses, but these were never completed.

    “Joy is selling lots and new construction homes with her husband acting as the [general contractor], but he is not a general contractor,” said fellow real estate agent Frankie Gonzalez, Jr., in a complaint dated May 8, 2023.

    The state’s Real Estate Commission handed down the suspension after multiple homeowners said they lost hundreds of thousands of dollars on homes that were never completed. One of the most vocal homeowners, Lisa Labelle, says she lost more than $320,000 after purchasing a lot and hiring Mario to build a house on it. Today, her dream home is just a few framed walls, some rotting wood and broken promises.

    Labelle, too, filed an ethics complaint with Canopy Realtor Association in Charlotte, alleging that Joy Cotto hid the fact that the company her husband owned, Distinctive Homes and Development Group, had not completed a single home before Labelle contracted it to build hers.

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    What the complaints against the real estate agent allege

    Labelle bought a lot near Lincolnton, NC, from Joy and Mario Cotto and signed a contract for Mario to build her custom home. She wired them $158,000 to purchase the land and an existing foundation. Between that payment and when she fired Mario months later, only two partial walls were standing.

    The build was supposed to be complete by April 1, 2024, but Labelle says he barely started it.

    According to Frankie Gonzalez Jr., a broker who filed one of the first complaints, “The new construction homes do not progress, her communication is terrible and Mario Cotto, her husband, is non-communicative.”

    A Queen City News ‘Unfinished Business’ investigation found at least two dozen additional homeowners had come forward, citing similar stories. In Lincoln and Mecklenburg counties, entire housing developments were littered with unfinished or rotting homes — all of which were connected to Joy and Mario Cotto.

    The Canopy Realtor Association determined that Joy Cotto violated the Realtor Code of Ethics. The organization fined her $3,000 and ordered her to complete a 4-hour ethics course within 30 days. She complied, but it wasn’t enough to stop a North Carolina Real Estate Commission (NCREC) investigation.

    NCREC Asst. Dir. Regulatory Affairs Charlie Moody told the commission, “The complaining witnesses allege that Cotto was aware that her husband was not completing the construction of the lots that they had purchased. But she continued to list the lots and sell them without any explanation or notification that there were issues with the construction.”

    Even more astonishing is that Cotto served in a similar role with her previous husband. “So, we would present to you a case where we say that she should have known that these lots were not — these homes were not going to be built,” Moody said.

    In May 2025, the NCREC voted to accept Cotto’s agreement to a two-year suspension of her license in exchange for the dismissal of all additional allegations. She did not admit guilt and can reapply for her license on May 21, 2027. However, Cotto must start her licensing process over, as though she was never licensed.

    Labelle called the outcome “a victory,” from the perspective that no one else can become a victim but added the outcome could have gone further: “Two years’ suspension for the amount of evidence that was provided, I think it really warranted… her license being revoked and her not being able to ever sell real estate in North Carolina again,” Labelle said.

    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

    Here’s what to do to avoid a similar situation:

    • Verify licenses: Use your state’s online license lookup tools to confirm the contractor or realtor is licensed and in good standing.
    • Check complaints: Look for disciplinary history through state boards or associations.
    • Read reviews and ask for references: Talk to recent clients, not just the ones they offer up. Asking friends or family for a recommendation can be a good starting point.
    • Watch for red flags: High-pressure sales tactics, vague contracts and upfront demands for large payments are all warning signs.
    • Get it in writing: Always insist on detailed contracts that clearly outline timelines, costs, materials and responsibilities. Include what happens if something goes over the proposed time, if possible. And ensure any updates or verbal agreements are reflected in the most recent version of the contract.

    How to hold a shady contractor accountable

    If you’ve paid a contractor and the work stalls or stops altogether, you do still have options:

    Document everything

    Keep a paper trail, including contracts, texts, invoices and photos of progress (or lack thereof). You’ll need this proof if you file a complaint or go to court.

    Send a formal demand letter

    Before escalating legally, send a written demand asking the contractor to complete the work by a specific date within reason. This shows you gave them a chance to fix things.

    File a complaint with your state licensing board

    If the contractor is licensed, report them to the relevant authorities. In North Carolina, complaints can be filed with the Licensing Board for General Contractors.

    Consider small claims court

    If the amount is under your state’s small claims limit, you can sue without hiring an attorney. This process is generally easier and more accessible for smaller claims. In North Carolina, the Small Claims Court is for disputes between $5,000 and $10,000, depending on the county.

    Whether you’re building a home or buying one, the best way to protect yourself is to do your homework before hiring a realtor or contractor.

    Joy Cotto’s story is a reminder that credentials alone aren’t always enough. Before you hand over your life savings, do your homework and trust your gut.

    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.

  • Minnesota homeowners claim their HOA is forcing them to pay $17,000 for repairs they didn’t need — or risk losing their homes. Now they’re suing in the hopes of getting answers

    Minnesota homeowners claim their HOA is forcing them to pay $17,000 for repairs they didn’t need — or risk losing their homes. Now they’re suing in the hopes of getting answers

    Residents in Lakeville, Minnesota are calling for more oversight and accountability after their Homeowner’s Association ordered expensive roofing repairs they say they didn’t need.

    Five of those residents have decided to sue their HOA and its Board members after being stuck with roofing bills totalling $17,000 each. While the HOA claims that extensive damage following a hailstorm in July 2023 necessitated repairs for each property, the residents say that independent assessments of their homes found that their roofs were in good repair and not damaged by the storm.

    Now, these homeowners have until the end of July to make the payment, or risk losing their homes for an association lien closure.

    Don’t miss

    What the lawsuit alleges

    According to a report from KSTP, the five plaintiffs allege that the HOA did not properly verify damage to each individual unit, and instead approved a sweeping, multimillion-dollar repair job. They also say the board has failed to provide promised documentation of the damage.

    Attorney Steven Little, representing the five homeowners, believes the agreement was made to benefit the roofing contracting company, Gittleman Construction and Maintenance Corporation, which is an affiliate of FirstService Residential, the property management company for the Avonlea Townhome Association — both of which are named as defendants in the lawsuit.

    “Most of these roofs have no damage at all,” Little told KSTP. “We have independent roofing contractors’ reports that show there’s nothing wrong with these roofs. These are people’s homes, and now they’re being threatened with losing their homes for an association lien closure if they’re not able to come up with the $17,000.”

    Little has filed a motion to put the payment process on hold on until the HOA shares more information about the roofing assessments and work.

    “My hope is that we get a court hearing,” Sarah Conlow, one of the plaintiffs, said. “That they look at all the evidence that we have from across the community and hold off charging homeowners the assessment until we get answers.”

    The HOA’s response

    In a letter to homeowners dated June 5, the HOA stated that repairs were necessary following “extensive storm-related damage”, and that the total cost of replacing or repairing roofs on 32 buildings would amount to $2.5 million, to be split among all 147 homeowners.

    “Yeah, it was shocking to get that notice,” homeowner Raj Logama Naidu told local news station KSTP. “My insurance only covers $1,000.”

    Under Minnesota law and the association’s governing documents, the board is “legally obligated to repair the damaged roofs,” and this obligation “is not optional and cannot be waived or subjected to a vote,” according to the spokesperson.

    However, KSTP reporters learned that the board committed to providing a report on the damage done to each home. Instead, a report that showed photos of an unidentified home was delivered, totalling only 12 pages.

    Utilis Vinson, HOA Association Board President, said to KTSP that “it’s possible” that the HOA board did not do their due diligence in sharing photos or documentation of damage with homeowners.

    FirstService Residential did not respond to a request for comment from the KTSP team.

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    Do HOAs have to get approval for major repairs?

    When you buy a home in a community governed by a homeowners association (HOA), you agree to follow its rules — including those covering property appearance, structural modifications and maintenance responsibilities. You also agree to pay regular dues, which can vary widely: from $859 a month in New York to just $64 in Idaho, according to a 2024 estimate in the 2024 Condominium Assessments Analysis by the Foundation for Community Research.

    But in addition to monthly or quarterly dues, HOAs can also impose special assessments for large-scale repairs or improvements. In most states, board approval is all that’s needed — not a majority vote from homeowners.

    That said, HOA members do have rights. You can:

    • Request documentation of damage or project necessity, including inspection reports and bids
    • Attend board meetings to ask questions and formally raise concerns
    • Ask to inspect financial records and review how past dues have been used
    • Request a delay or payment plan for costly assessments
    • File a legal complaint if you believe the board acted improperly, such as failing to document decisions, choosing affiliated contractors without transparency or acting in bad faith

    If you’re considering buying into an HOA, ask for a copy of the association’s financial reports, bylaws and reserve fund details before you sign. And if you already live in one, stay involved. Attending meetings and reviewing financial decisions can help you push back before major and costly changes are made.

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

  • One year after wildfire, Jasper still rebuilding

    One year after wildfire, Jasper still rebuilding

    When multiple wildfires tore through Jasper National Park on July 22nd, 2024, the result was one of the most destructive fire events in Canadian history, destroying 358 properties and causing around $1.2 billion in insured damages. Thousands were forced to leave their homes, not knowing whether they would ever get the chance to return.

    Residents, like Nancy Addison, who lost her home and has spent the past year living across Canada, say the delay has taken a deep emotional toll. “It makes you feel very far away… without support,” she told CBC. “There are lots of people that won’t come back.”

    As the town of Jasper prepares to commemorate the one year anniversary of the wildfire, the Insurance Bureau of Canada (IBC) is calling for national reform to help prevent prolonged rebuilding delays after catastrophic events.

    “Canada needs a federal coordinating agency to guide emergency preparedness and recovery so that Parks Canada, and other jurisdictions, don’t have to create unique playbooks after each catastrophic event,” Craig Stewart, IBC’s vice-president for Climate Change and Federal Issues, said in a statement.

    Federal funding, federal friction

    To date, only 56 properties — or 15% of those destroyed — have received permits to rebuild. According to the latest Jasper Recovery Coordination Centre report, 260 households have moved into interim housing.

    “Over the past year, the people of Jasper have shown tremendous resilience, and insurers will continue to be there every step of the way to support recovery efforts," Aaron Sutherland, IBC’s vice-president, Pacific and Western, said in a statement.

    By contrast, Fort McMurray — which suffered Canada’s most costly wildfire in 2016 at around $9.9 billion — saw reconstruction begin within months, well before the one-year mark.

    The substantial delays in Jasper have been attributed largely to the town’s unique location within a national park. Federal environmental remediation standards, including soil testing and cleanup, have added significant complexity, cost and time to the rebuilding process. Crucially, these are costs that also typically fall outside the remit of standard insurance coverage.

    While the federal government has committed to covering these additional remediation costs for leaseholders, recovery remains sluggish.

    Time and money may be running out for some Jasper residents

    The Municipality of Jasper will host an official commemoration on July 22nd in Commemoration Park, supported by a week of social events that encourage residents to gather, reflect, and most importantly, participate in Jasper’s rebuild.

    "We appreciate that this is going to be a difficult time for many people in our community," Jasper’s chief of administration, Bill Given, told CBC.

    "We want to ensure that they have access to a way to commemorate the events of the past year in a way that’s meaningful, but also that they have an opportunity to look forward to a brighter future."

    In light of the difficulties in Jasper, the IBC is urging the federal government to lead a national conversation on how Canada responds to catastrophic events like the Jasper Wildfire Complex. According to Stewart, the country lacks a central agency responsible for coordinating disaster response, unlike every other G7 nation.

    Insurers are also warning that these continued delays may exhaust policyholders’ coverage for Additional Living Expenses and Business Interruption.

    Many residents and business owners could soon face further financial hardship without additional support. Policyholders are being encouraged to speak with their insurers to determine their options.

    Could Jasper spark a national shift?

    The Jasper fire destroyed roughly one-third of the town’s buildings and forced thousands to evacuate the place they called home. Tragically, twenty-four year old firefighter Morgan Kitchen lost his life while battling the blaze. The incentive to prevent another such disaster, for insurers and residents alike, is huge.

    With wildfire risk increasing in both frequency and severity across the country, Canada’s insurers are calling for a series of preventative measures, including:

    • Greater investment in FireSmart Community Wildfire Protection Plans
    • Limitations on new development in high-risk areas
    • Mandatory fire-resistant building codes
    • Enhanced wildfire response and suppression

    As insurers continue to support residents through the long road to recovery, the hope is that Jasper’s unique challenges can serve as a catalyst for stronger, more coordinated disaster preparedness nationwide.

    For updates on Jasper’s recovery, visit jasper-alberta.ca/p/jasperwildfire.

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

  • An eye-popping $1.65 trillion is stuck in lost or forgotten 401(k)s — here’s why it took this Brooklyn man 4 years to get his money

    An eye-popping $1.65 trillion is stuck in lost or forgotten 401(k)s — here’s why it took this Brooklyn man 4 years to get his money

    Jose Valentin worked hard throughout his life, both in the Air Force and in law enforcement.

    Most recently, the Brooklynite was a dispatcher for an armored car company for 15 years until pancreatic cancer suddenly cut his life short in 2021.

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    “My dad, he worked his butt off,” Jose’s son, Allen Valentin, told WABC’s investigative team 7 On Your Side. “It’s like my dad put in his time for the city, for the state and also for the country.”

    The Valentins suffered a terrible loss, but little did they know that things were about to go from bad to worse.

    Following Jose’s passing, the Valentins found themselves locked in a four-year battle to gain access to the $26,535 that Jose left for them.

    Fighting for a 401(k)

    Allen takes care of his grandmother full-time and also helps out his mom, Esperanza.

    “I feel like it’s part of my duty as the eldest,” Allen told 7 On Your Side, crediting the work ethic and big heart that he inherited from his dad as motivation for putting his family first. “He was the one who had to provide for her and for all of us.”

    When he passed away, Jose reportedly left behind a 401(k) worth more than $26,000, but Allen has been unable to access the money because Rapid Armored — the company that Jose worked for — failed to send the correct documentation to get the funds released.

    “He worked with them for almost 15 years and it’s like they don’t want to lift a finger,” said Allen.

    Meanwhile, Esperanza is in dire need of the money in her late husband’s 401(k).

    “I feel very bad, because I need that money,” she said. Without it, maintaining the family home in Brownsville, Brooklyn — which has been in the family for generations — may be impossible.

    Desperate for help, the family called 7 On Your Side’s Nine Pineda, who then contacted Rapid Armored. And while the company had no comment, the funds within Jose’s 401(k) were finally delivered in full to the Valentin family within three business days.

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    This situation is all too common

    Unfortunately, the Valentins are not the only American family struggling to access a deceased family member’s retirement funds in a 401(k). As USA Today reports, sometimes 401(k) accounts are lost or forgotten.

    “People who are leaving a job, and especially if they’re moving to another one, usually have a bunch of things going on,” David John, senior strategic policy adviser at the AARP Public Policy Institute, told USA Today. As John explains, it’s not all that difficult for someone who’s worked at a company for just a year or two to lose track of their 401(k) after transitioning to another job.

    According to Capitalize, a fintech company that helps consumers find and consolidate retirement savings, there were 29.2 million forgotten or left-behind 401(k) accounts carrying approximately $1.65 trillion in assets as of May 2023.

    If your parent worked at a company several years ago but there doesn’t seem to be any record or correspondence related to a 401(k) with that employer, then you may be facing this situation. Finding these assets can be a lot of work, but a good place to start is the National Registry of Unclaimed Retirement Benefits.

    Another common reason why some people can’t access a deceased parent’s 401(k) is that a beneficiary wasn’t designated for the plan. In this case, the funds can go into probate — a legal process for validating a will and distributing the deceased person’s assets.

    Probate laws vary by state, but this can be a complex, costly process that often takes months or even years to complete — and it can be further complicated and extended if someone challenges the will.

    When beneficiaries are designated, it’s not uncommon for a beneficiary trying to access the account to submit inaccurate or incomplete documentation. To access the 401(k), you’ll need copies of the death certificate, legal identification and the correct Social Security number for the account, among other information.

    Of course, sometimes errors or delays can happen with financial institutions. If that’s the case, confirm that the financial institution has received everything it needs and follow up regularly.

    An advisor can help — before and after death

    If you’re going through a situation similar to what the Valentins have experienced, a financial advisor or an estate attorney may be able to help.

    For example, after a loved one has passed away, an advisor can help ensure that all requirements are completed accurately, as well as take care of administration, communication and advocacy during what is likely a difficult time for you.

    But these advisors aren’t just useful for cleaning up a messy 401(k) situation. To ensure your loved ones are taken care of, working with a financial advisor or an estate attorney to prepare your estate can also help the process run more smoothly for your family when you pass away.

    For example, an advisor or an estate attorney can help you locate forgotten or missing retirement funds, outline clear beneficiary instructions and make sure all documentation is complete and accurate. They’ll also keep all necessary information on file for when your family needs it.

    Dealing with estate matters can be difficult and uncomfortable, but it’s necessary to ensure your family is able to inherit your legacy in the way you intend.

    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.

  • ‘People are fed up’: Michigan residents demand state utility provider stop raising rates as hike request to raise bills by $13/month heads for review — the 4th major increase in 5 years

    Residents who recently attended a Michigan Public Service Commission (MPSC) meeting have one unified message for DTE Energy: enough with the rate hikes.

    "People are fed up," Donavan McKinney, a Michigan state representative, shared with WXYZ Detroit. “They cannot afford more rate increases. People are struggling as is.”

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    Residents have expressed frustration over years of electricity rate hikes and are pushing back on DTE’s newest request: a 2026 rate increase that’s expected to produce $574 million in revenue.

    If approved, the rate increase would be the fourth major hike in five years. The Detroit Free Press estimates the rake hike would increase consumer bills by $13.50 per month.

    Residents denounce never-ending rate increases

    At the meeting, community members voiced their frustration directly to the MPSC, questioning why rates continue to rise year after year while DTE Energy’s executives receive large salaries and bonuses.

    “If you’re saying you need the increase for infrastructure and systems, why are your board members taking home so much profit annually?” one resident asked.

    The most recent increase took effect in January 2025, generating $217 million in additional revenue for DTE. Residents say it’s just the latest in a decade-long pattern of steady increases.

    Commission representatives explained that part of their job is to determine what constitutes a "reasonable profit" for utility shareholders. The current authorized return on equity for DTE stands at 9.9%, while the total return ranges from 5% to 6%.

    When WXYZ reporter Meghan Daniels asked whether those numbers could be reduced in light of the financial strain on families, a commission spokesperson said DTE is trying to balance consumer impact with the utility company’s needs.

    "The requirement we have under court precedent is we need to balance the interest of customers with the interest of the utility being able to access the capital that they need to reinvest in their business," the representative said.

    Still, many residents weren’t satisfied.

    "These rate increases are really choking our people," Roslyn Ogburn, a partnership coordinator for the Michigan League of Conservation Voters, shared with the Detroit Free Press. "We’re telling the Michigan Public Service Commission to stop the rate increase and come up with better solutions. Do not put another burden on the back of the people."

    DTE has defended its performance in a statement published by WXYZ Detroit. The company claims that strategic grid investments led to a 70% improvement in power reliability from 2023 to 2024. The company also says it’s working to provide “cleaner and more reliable energy” while keeping bills below the national average.

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    What options do residents have?

    For many in the Detroit area, DTE is the default — and often only — electricity utility provider. Michigan operates under a regulated monopoly model, meaning most residents have limited or no ability to switch providers for standard electricity service. While the state does have an Electric Customer Choice program, it’s capped and currently unavailable to most residential customers due to capacity limits.

    That leaves residents with two broad paths: managing rising energy costs or pushing for change. If you find yourself in a similar situation and switching providers in not an option, here are some ways to manage rising energy costs:

    • Reduce usage where possible: Switch to LED light bulbs, seal your windows and doors, and unplug unused electronics. It also helps to reduce your AC and heating usage when possible.
    • Invest in efficient renewable energy: While the upfront cost can be high, solar panels, smart thermostats and efficient appliances can help lower long-term energy costs. Check for rebates or local assistance programs.
    • Restructure your budget: If your energy bill has become a larger monthly expense, rebalancing your budget might be necessary. Look for ways to cut unnecessary spending.
    • Apply for assistance: DTE offers payment assistance and flexible plans for qualifying customers. If you live in Michigan, you can apply for help through programs like the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program or the Michigan Energy Assistance Program.
    • Make your voice heard: Michigan residents can file formal complaints through the MPSC, but Americans living in another state can attend public meetings or contact their state representatives.

    Whether change comes through new regulation, public pressure or alternative energy investments, many Michiganders say the current path is unsustainable.

    "[Residents] cannot take another rate increase," said McKinney. “It will literally bankrupt a lot of these families. They’re already playing catch-up.”

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