#Limits on Employer-Provided Education Benefits

[raven-at-the-writing-desk]

Hello hello! Long time follower!

I really like reading all your translations, theories and fanfics! It's really great to be able to read your thoughts about characters and cards because am a f2p so I have a very limited stash of gems to pull lol

So I was thinking about the rrcent jp update and I went back to read some of your work on Scarabia. I'll admit they weren't amongst my favorites before so I haven't paid too much attention to them. I was wondering then about the couple times you've said Jamil is well off? Maybe it's from one of his SSR cards of his home event, but I can't remember where he or maybe Kalim implies that?

That's it, just a silly question thanks so much for all that you do, I love so much all your theories and thoughts about the lore and the cast! Have a good day!

Hdsbskwhsk I’m glad that my blog brings you joy and makes your free to play experience more fun 🤩 Thanks for sticking with me all this time!

As for your question, I’m not actually sure if there's dialogue which explicitly states the Viper family's level of wealth. I couldn't find any when I combed through, so I had to go off of implications and my own interpretations of those. From what I’ve gathered, I see the Vipers as upper middle class, or at least middle class with a LOT of benefits (the benefits being present boost them to upper middle class due to the lifestyle the benefits afford them).

So firstly, I think there's a lot of debate surrounding Jamil's family income. Some fans seem to think that the Vipers must be destitute due to their position as servants and Jamil's disdain for how the Asims throw around their money and influence. However, perceived social status or class does NOT always equate to being low income. There are people irl who are technically "servants" and "hired help" that make a significant salary while working for much wealthier individuals. There is data for bodyguards, private chefs, executive assistants, and skilled nannies who earn six-figure incomes and/or excellent benefits working for celebrities, politicians, businessmen, etc. (Notably, guarding, cooking, scheduling/planning, and generally looking after Kalim are all a part of Jamil's duties.) Real world examples of this include employees of the White House and the British royal family.

Now, that all depends a lot on the type of people the employers are. There are many wealthy families who mistreat their staff and/or don't pay them well. From what I've seen of the Asims though, I definitely feel that this is not the case. To begin with, the Vipers don't just do one task for the Asims, they do a LOT. You're already aware of the constant work Jamil has to do around the clock to keep Kalim safe and satisfied, but his parents must do the same. They're described as experts in hospitality and are frequently hosting and entertaining guests from all over Twisted Wonderland. This is skilled labor, and that demands commiserate pay. Not only that, but Kalim describes his father as someone who is very generous (and the guy has plenty of money to spare). I don’t see why Mr. Asim would purposefully skimp on specifically paying the Vipers.

I would also imagine that the Vipers are afforded other benefits. Jamil has said many times that he has to look or act a certain way, as his behavior/appearance reflects on the family he serves. Therefore, the Asims may provide other things Jamil and the Vipers need to “look good” and to best represent and serve the Asims. This could mean food, clothes, transportation/travel expenses, education (like additional training, manners lessons, certification exams, etc.) all paid for on the Asim family’s coin. Jamil has mentioned that his parents gave him lessons in everything he’d need to know in order to serve Kalim, so this tells his parents are also well-educated and/or were at least able to pay for lessons for Jamil. And these lessons aren’t “normal” lessons either, it includes things like formal bodyguard training (you’d have to pay for this irl) and formal table manners (which most of us aren’t taught unless we seek it out).

We also recently learned in book 7 that the Vipers live on Asim property, which is very luxurious. Jamil states that his family would be on the streets should they lose their place serving the Asims—and this could be interpreted in a very literal sense if we think of as losing the roof over their heads. Yes, it's technically not land or housing that the Vipers own, but it is still free high-class lodging, nonetheless. It is a benefit that is afford to them (among others) because of their job(s), similar to those real life examples I mentioned before. One could make the argument that none of this wealth truly belongs to the Vipers. However, you could also argue that because these benefits come with the job, it technically is theirs as long as they keep their job (which is, in fact, how jobs irl work; if you stop working for an employer then naturally you’ll stop getting the benefits that come with that job eventually). It’s complicated. I suspect that, at the very least, part of the reason why the Vipers don’t want to depart from serving the Asims is because they don’t want to lose the pay and the perks that come with their work.

I want to add that the Vipers’ position also gives them the unique advantage of exposing them to tons of important individuals. They are able to meet and connect with these VIPs when most people could never even dream of meeting them, even if just from the viewpoint of a servant. It’s a similar to Lilia and Silver, who technically are not rich (money-wise) but still have ties with majorly influential people (members of the Draconia royal family).

Obviously, the Vipers still aren’t as rich as the Asims and probably will never be, but I believe they still enjoy a comfortable lifestyle. We never see Jamil worry about money or being short of it. He gives his VDC/SDC earnings away without batting an eye, unlike Deuce (from a single-parent income family) who keeps the money since it would really help out his mom. He doesn’t have to work a ton of odd jobs to make ends meet (unlike Ruggie). But Jamil does haggle and act frugal. I think that behavior comes from not a genuine need but Jamil being mindful and planning ahead to avoid being scammed. He’s shown to be a cautious individual who often is the one putting the breaks on Kalim’s extravagance, so I feel the skill also comes partly from having to be the one to curb his ridiculous spending and bring Kalim down to earth. Jamil is still the type of person who would tell Kalim when he’s buying too much or overdoing things, even when it’s not Jamil’s own money being spent and he knows Kalim can afford it. That’s what leads me to believe his frugalness isn’t necessarily the result of him being low income and “needing” to save. If that were the case, he shouldn’t care if Kalim throws his own money at buying diamond jewelry for all the dorm members as souvenirs.

I think the closest metric we have as a frame of reference for how wealthy Jamil is comes from the Tapis Rouge event. In it, Jamil forks out 500 thaumarks (or 50000 madol) to buy a jacket. He remarks that the price is fairly expensive but good quality so it’s worth it. Whether you consider this an indicator of his low or high wealth is really all relative to what your own perception is. Jamil had also previously remarked that what the Mostro Lounge charges is absurd. In Ruggie’s Ceremonial Robes vignettes, Azul quotes the price of one soft drink as 4 thaumarks/400 madol. Jamil responds with “Four? Talk about a markup.” It should be noted that the latter example doesn’t mean Jamil cannot afford a drink of that price; he’s complaining about how expensive Azul has made it to capitalize on the high demand. Do with this knowledge what you will.

Anyway, those are my thoughts! I hope I was able to explain myself well. If you have any thoughts, please feel free to express them ^^

[octuscle]

How times are changing….

2024, The Russian Tea Room: Lunchtime with the Masters of the Universe. John and Richard were at the peak of their powers. The sky was the limit. Whatever money could buy, these two had it. And they had a lot of it. And as soon as Trump was back in power, there would be much, much more.

John: Good afternoon, Richard. It’s been too long since our last lunch.

Richard: Good afternoon, John. Yes, it has. How have you been?

John: Very well, thank you. Busy as always, but things are moving in the right direction. How about you and your family?

Richard: We’re doing well, thank you. My son, Alexander, has just received his acceptance letter from Yale.

John: That’s excellent news! Congratulations to Alexander and to you. Yale is a fantastic institution. He must be thrilled.

Richard: He certainly is. We are all extremely proud of him. Yale offers unparalleled opportunities and will undoubtedly shape his future in the best possible way.

John: Absolutely. With a Yale education, Alexander will be well-prepared for any challenges he faces. Have you thought about how the current political climate might affect his future prospects?

Richard: Yes, quite a bit. We’re hopeful that the new government will adopt more protectionist policies and take a stronger stance on immigration. These changes could significantly impact the economic landscape.

John: I agree. A more protectionist approach could provide substantial benefits to our domestic industries. If the government prioritizes national interests over international ones, we could see a thriving local market.

Richard: Exactly. Limiting immigration and focusing on domestic employment could create a more favorable environment for our economy. This would be particularly advantageous for someone like Alexander, who will have the skills and knowledge to navigate such a market.

John: With fewer immigrants, there could be more opportunities for domestic workers, potentially leading to higher wages and better job prospects for citizens. This aligns well with our economic goals.

Richard: Precisely. Alexander is considering majoring in economics with a focus on international trade and policy. If the government shifts towards protectionism and stricter immigration controls, his expertise will be highly valuable.

John: That’s a smart move. Understanding the implications of protectionist policies on trade and the economy will be crucial. He could be at the forefront of developing strategies that align with national interests.

Richard: We’re certainly encouraging him to build strong connections at Yale, particularly with professors and industry experts. These relationships will be invaluable as he navigates his career.

John: Networking is essential, especially in such a dynamic environment. With potential policy changes, those connections could provide critical insights and opportunities.

Richard: Absolutely. It's an exciting yet uncertain time. However, with the right preparation and strategic thinking, Alexander could thrive in this new landscape.

John: Have you considered the political approaches of other countries, like Russia? They have implemented stringent immigration policies and strong protectionist measures with notable success.

Richard: Yes, we have. Russia’s policies have indeed bolstered their national industries and maintained a tighter control over their labor market. Their approach offers valuable lessons on how to prioritize national over international interests.

John: Exactly. If our government could adopt some of those measures, it could significantly strengthen our domestic economy. Alexander’s timing couldn’t be better.

Richard: I completely agree. It’s a critical moment, and with the right guidance and education, I believe Alexander will navigate it successfully.

John: I have no doubt about that. He has a solid foundation and your support. The future looks very promising for him.

Richard: Thank you, John. That means a lot. Here’s to hoping the new government’s policies will pave the way for greater opportunities and a stronger economy.

John: Cheers to that, Richard. To Alexander’s success and the promising times ahead.

2027, Brownsville Social Welfare Office: Alex and Mike were destined to follow in their fathers' footsteps. Oil barons and investment banking gods. But things don't always turn out the way you want them to…

Alexander: Hey there, Mike. Ain’t seen you in a coon’s age. What’s got you waitin’ at the social office today?

Mike: Hey, Alex. Just tryin’ to get some more assistance. Amy’s knocked up again, so I gotta sort things out. What about you?

Alexander: Same ol' crap. Need to see if they can help me get some dentures. Got my teeth busted in a brawl last month. Ain't lookin' too pretty.

Mike: Dang, man. That’s rough. Sorry to hear it. How’s things otherwise?

Alexander: Not too hot. After the market took a dive, had to drop outta Yale. Now I’m bustin’ my hump as a day laborer for that agribusiness. You know, the one that got snatched up by that Russian fella?

Mike: Yup, I know the one. Same deal here. Never thought we’d end up like this. Six kids now and no real job. That crash sure did us in.

Alexander: Tell me ‘bout it. I was this close to finishin’ my degree. Now instead of workin' in finance, I’m haulin' corn and doin' grunt work. Feels like some kinda bad joke.

Mike: I hear ya. I was studyin' to be an engineer. Now, I’m just tryin’ to get by. And since the Russian took over, it’s been even worse. Cut our hours and benefits to the bone.

Alexander: Yeah, I noticed. They don’t give a rat’s ass 'bout us. Just squeezin' every penny they can. It’s tough.

Mike: Sure is. And with another mouth to feed, it’s stressin’ me out. Amy’s worryin’ herself sick, and I ain’t got a clue how we’ll make it.

Alexander: Wish there was a way outta this mess. What’re we supposed to do? Every time I think I’m gettin’ ahead, somethin’ knocks me back down.

Mike: Same here. Feels like we’re stuck in mud. I keep hopin’ things’ll get better, but it’s like we’re just spinnin' our wheels.

Alexander: Worst part is knowin’ we had so much potential, ya know? We were supposed to have these big careers, and now we’re just tryin’ to make it day by day.

Mike: Sometimes I low-key ponder the insane what ifs if the freaking crash hadn't ruined everything. Like, imagine where we'd be RN. Rolling in that sweet juicy success, probs. We'd be slaying life, swagging out and straight up crushing it. Just living our best lives and probably having our dicks in…

Alexander: Yo, bruh, like legit, we'd be in a whole different stratosphere if we weren't chilling at this social welfare spot right now. But hey, we gotta keep on keepin' on, for the youngins and for us too. And if that lil' monster in your pants is acting up, hit me up anytime, I got your back!

Mike: Yo, bro! I was seriously starting to think you were never gonna bring it up... My urges are off the charts, I'm dying for some primo bootay to slam once more.

Alexander: Yo, like seriously, I gotta wait for a freaking eternity, like thirteen freaking numbers long. Dude, in that never-ending time span, you might as well give me a good ol' romp and suck fest, ya feel me?

Mike: Oh man, like seriously, watch out, but like, make sure you don't end up with a bun in the oven, okay? 'Cause, like, I'm totally the supreme stud around here when it comes to spreading my seed, ya dig?

Alexander: Yo, quit yapping and just slide through already! I'm totally gonna take this wild risk, no cap! Let's get this party started, fam!

[boxoftheskyking]

So you might want to buy a house

DISCLAIMER: all of this is based on my own experience, and I am in no way a real estate professional. This is just some stuff that I’ve learned and some steps that I wish I’d known more about in advance, in hopes that it might be helpful for some people. I might get some terminology wrong, or make mistakes, but hopefully the general info is at least kind of helpful

ABOUT ME: because real estate stuff is specific. I am 33, single, employed, and live in a city in Minnesota, USA. This is my first home purchase, so most of this is specific to being a first-time buyer. I’ve been renting in this area for 15 years. I closed on my house in August 2023.

NOTE: The real estate market is super weird, and varies hugely from region to region, neighborhood to neighborhood, and week to week. What shook out for me will not be what shakes out for you.

This is SO LONG, so it’s under a cut, and I hope you will take it with the good faith in was intended!

Where do I start?

So you want to get started but want to talk things over first. This is a good idea! Even if you have friends and family who have bought before, it’s nice to talk to official type people where you can ask any and every question and know they’ve heard way dumber questions than you could ever come up with over the course of their career.

Employee Assistance Program -If you work a job that has benefits, you might have what’s called an Employee Assistance Program (EAP). Some companies get it along with their health insurance as kind of a bundle, but a lot of people don’t talk about it or know about it. -EAPs are all different, they’re basically a resource hub that you might have access to if your employer covers it. Some things they offer are limited therapy/counseling sessions (usually around a specific need like a breakup/death/life transition), consultation about adoption, personal financial advising, and consultation on housing and buying property. -I used my EAP to find a bunch of organizations that work to support first-time home buyers. The one I went with, NeighborWorks Home Partners, is specific to my area, but there were other options listed. -I didn’t actually talk to anyone related to the EAP, I just logged in to a site that had a bunch of links. But I could have talked to someone if I wanted -If you work a job and have benefits like health insurance, retirement, dental, etc it’s worth asking whoever does your benefits (and HR person, general manager, office manager, etc) if there is an EAP. Again, a lot of people don’t really talk about it.

Homebuyer Education -There’s a bunch of different organizations that provide homebuyer education. I didn’t know many of the details about homebuying, and it’s super confusing and anxiety-inducing, so I found it helpful -There’s a few ways to do this—I did both a one-on-one consultation and an online class -The one-on-one consultation was free from the org I chose. We talked on Zoom and went over monthly budgets (which I didn’t really need to do, I make budgets for a living lolllll), a soft credit pull (will talk more about this below) and talk about what goes into a credit score, and all the different expenses that go into a house and what that might look like. At the end of the day, it gave me the first sense of what my budget for a house might be.  -They did a soft credit pull (see below), which gave me a sense of my credit. It was more accurate than a thing like Credit Karma or my bank. -One note about the consultation - my down payment assistance program (will talk more about this later) required me to redo it, because I did it over a year before closing. So depending on your programs you might need to pay attention to the timeline. I also got a certificate saying I did it that I submitted to my assistance program. (Redoing it meant like a 10 minute call where the guy just helped talk me through my closing documents) -It cost me $75 to take an online class that took a few hours. It was in 8 parts and included watching some videos, reading some short articles, and then taking quizzes. You had to get 80% right to pass, and you can redo it if you need to. It went over most of the things to know and had links to read more. I also got a certificate for that to submit, and it didn’t matter how much time had passed for my assistance program. 

Credit -I’m not going to explain everything about credit, because it is complicated -A soft credit pull is when they check the three major credit reporting agencies to get a general sense of your score. It’s not 100% accurate. -A hard credit pull is what lenders will do when you actually go in for a preapproval (more below). It will be the most accurate. A hard credit pull will have an affect on your credit score, so if you’re ever doing something that involves a hard credit pull, it’s best to do all of that within a month so that it only really hits once. -There are 3 credit reporting agencies, and your score will be different from each one. Why? no idea. They all have a different maximum number that your score can be. Why? again, no idea. It’s around 850 though. -Generally things get easier to do if your score is above 680ish. It’s not like you can’t get a house with a lower score, but sometimes there are other hoops to jump through. -I’m not very useful when it comes to buying a house with low credit, but I bet there are people who are!  -You build credit by owing money and paying it regularly. It’s annoying and dumb, but it’s the way it is. Paying rent on time builds your credit, having a credit card that you pay off every month builds credit, paying utility bills that are in your name builds credit. (Note: This stuff has to be in your name for it to count, so if you pay your roommate every month for the electric bill and it’s in their name, it won’t count. So if you’re in that situation, you may want to put something in your name like a card to build your score). Paying off a car or phone or student loan also helps. -I have really good credit, and I’m neither rich nor special. I just set everything to autopay, including my credit card bill. I use my credit card for most things that I just shop for in the world like groceries, etc, and then I have all my bills autopay from my checking account. How did people do this shit before autopay? I have no idea.

Mortgage vs. Rent -The benefit of paying a mortgage vs rent is that you’re building equity if you pay into a mortgage. This is a surprise tool that will help you later. Which means that if you are in a situation where you need money, you can borrow from what you’ve paid into your mortgage. So like if you get very sick or have a kid going to school or want to throw a big party, you could get a loan based on your equity -Equity is confusing, don’t ask me about it -For me, I pay a bit more per month than I did in rent at my last place. BUT mostly that’s because I’d been living in the same place for many years and my rent hadn’t gone up that much. One of the first things I did when considering buying is look at how much it would cost to rent a house like the kind I would want to buy. And those rents are over what I ended up paying monthly to my mortgage. -Keep in mind that you will be taking on some extra expenses that you don’t have as a renter (like maintenance, repairs, etc). Note: if you’re buying a condo, that’s different. I don’t know shit about that. -So for me, paying my landlord every month for him to occasionally (half-assedly) fix stuff (on his schedule, where he decides who to hire or how to do the work, where he is a stranger in my space for the duration) was not as appealing as me paying the bank every month so I can have some equity  -The first 6 months of owning a house feels like hemorrhaging money out of every orifice, but the majority of these expenses are one-time or rarely-reoccurring things. But I didn’t quite prepare for this the way I wish I had, so when you’re thinking about building your savings to buy a house, you’ll want to consider things like furniture, small repairs, pest control, duct cleaning, gutter cleaning, many many visits to a hardware store, realizing some of your stuff doesn’t fit the way it did in the old place and you have to get new things.... etc. 

The Money Stuff

Lenders -It might be appealing to start by looking at properties, but especially in a hot market that’s not what you want to do first -The first thing to do is to look at lenders! Lenders are basically the institutions that give you the loan to buy your house, and the ones you will be paying monthly for the 30 years of your loan (or until you sell) (or die I guess) -I talked to like 13 lenders, because I love an excuse not to move forward on scary things, so I just do research and research and research until I run out of steam. So i don’t necessarily recommend doing that. But you definitely want to talk to at least a few. -Lenders can be banks (like Bank of American, US Bank, Wells Fargo, etc), credit unions (like Affinity, RCU, etc), or smaller mortgage companies. -You can also talk to mortgage brokers, which are companies that have agreements with different banks or companies and can shop around on your behalf. -I got my list of people to talk to from: my consultation (above), friends who had bought/were buying, friends who like their bank/credit unions for other things -You’ll have a specific person you’re working with, so who that person is matters. -Things you’ll want to ask about 1. How is their communication? How big is your team? If you see a house on a Saturday and they need offers by Sunday afternoon, how likely is it that they will get your preapproval letter ready in time?  2. Are they good at explaining things to you? Do they work with first-time homebuyers a lot? Do you feel dumb talking to them? Are they mortgage nerds and genuinely seem like they care about finding you good deals and cool programs? 3. What are their interest rates at the moment? Know that this will change between now and the time you have the option to lock in, so don’t put too too much weight on this 4. Most importantly: What assistance programs do they have access to? Everyone has different ones, which we’ll talk about below. Don’t assume that because a bank is huge that they have a ton of assistance. Some small places have really great programs. Likewise, some of the banks that are more well-known for big ticket mortgages (like Jumbo loans for mansions, etc) actually have crazy good programs for low-income and first-time home buyers, because they need to show that they also work for the little guy -I ended up going with a small local mortgage company because they had a kickass program ($10,000 in down payment assistance that is forgivable in 5 years. So as long as I don’t sell my house in 5 years, I don’t have to pay that back). -You may be tempted to solely base your decision on who to get a mortgage from on the politics of the lending institution. This is a lovely instinct. HOWEVER, your mortgage can be sold to anyone at any time. Within a month of moving in, my mortgage was sold to Freddie Mac. I still pay the credit union that is the servicer of my loan, but it all goes back to the big guy in the end. So basically you have no control of where your money ends up. (or maybe you do somehow, ask someone else about that) -At the end of the day, you should apply to like 2-4 different lenders. Once you fill out your application, they’ll do a hard credit pull and look at all your income, bank accounts, etc, and they’ll pre-approve you for a certain amount of money. -This is really where you’ll get your house-hunting budget. There can be a pretty big range in what you’re approved for! One lender approved me for $220K (”maybe $225K” they said). Another approved me for $280K. You’ll want to pick a lender based on all the above information, along with the amount you’re approved for. Being approved for $280K doesn’t mean that’s what you should spend (you can, but I don’t recommend it), but it does mean that your budget can be more like $250K, compared for $225K. You’ll want to look around at your area to see what’s reasonable for you.

Downpayment Assistance -for a lot of first-time buyers, the downpayment (and closing costs) is the thing that’s standing between you and being a homeowner. So that’s what a lot of organizations focus on -The more you put down (i.e. pay right off the bat), the lower your loan will be, and therefore the less your monthly payment will be. So it’s worth it to try and pay down as much as possible -(Likewise, if you buy and house and then get a windfall and are like What do I do with all this cash, paying down your mortgage will save you money) -This is because you pay MORE in interest than you pay for your house, so the less your loan is, the less you’re paying in interest. If you find a way to pay off your loan early, you end up paying less interest! And you win against the bank! If you get a raise and are able to put even like an extra $100 towards your mortgage each month, that can cut years off your loan and build your equity more quickly, thereby cutting down on the interest you end up paying. So unlike paying more money to a landlord who will eat it with a spoon, maybe more in your mortgage early is helpful for you. -Lots of downpayment assistance (hereinafter DPA) is stackable! So you can qualify for multiple programs and use them all -Many have an income requirement (for one of mine, I need to make 80% of the median income in my area or less). -Many are location specific. Some of those you can look up in advance and try to focus on properties in those areas. Some are super super specific, like this block only, or these specific addresses. That’s true for one of my programs—whenever I was considering making an offer on a house, I’d email my lender and she’d tell me if that specific address counts for the assistance program -At the end of the day, I got $30K in assistance. $10K of that is forgivable in 5 years (so I don’t have to pay it back unless I sell in that time). The other $20K is from two separate no-interest loans. This means that if I sell the house, I have to pay back that amount. Ideally by that time I’ll have enough equity in my house that will cover that. -Interest rates are super high right now, so if you’re buying now you want to think about refinancing. Refinancing is basically when you negotiate a new deal with your lender. There are fees and things (I’ve never done it so IDK), but the benefit of doing that is getting a lower interest rate. So my rate is 6.25%, and in 5 years if the rate goes down to like 2.3% I may want to refinance so I’ll be paying less in interest over the course of my loan. -If you’re getting DPA that’s a loan, you will want to ask what happens when you refinance. They’ll probably tell you either you have to pay it back when you refinance (so don’t get stuck in that situation if you don’t have that $$$ on hand) or they’ll say it’ll be subordinated -this took me like weeks to get a straight answer on wtf is subordination. Basically, you pay your loans off in order, right, so you pay your mortgage and then after that you pay off your DPA loans. So if you refinance, then your mortgage ends up being “newer” I guess. So in order to put the mortgage back “on top” of the pile to pay off, so to speak, you pay that (and it’s interest) first, the DPA loans get shoved down underneath the mortgage on the list. 

Interest Rates -You can’t control interest rates. Honestly markets are so volatile and the world is so close to ending, I would say it’s not worth waiting for them to go down. Maybe they will, maybe they won’t. No one fuckin knows -So many global, political, circumstantial things affect these, and who knows what might happen. My friends happened to be closing during the time the debt ceiling almost freaked out, which was outside of their control, so they got screwed with a super high rate.  -After you get an offer accepted and you’re working on setting up your loan, you’ll usually get the offer to “lock in” an interest rate. Basically, if you have reason to believe rates will go down before you close, don’t do it. if you think they’ll go up, then do it. Who fuckin knows. I did it bc I didn’t think it was likely stuff would go down. And I haven’t looked it up bc if they did I don’t want to know -There are more complicated things you can do with interest rates, like “floating down” and APRs and other shit. Don’t ask me about them, I do not know.

Looking for houses

Realtors -Who your realtor is MATTERS y’all. Here is what a realtor will do: 1. Give you access to a Super Awesome online listing of properties (much better than Zillow! Updates constantly). They will set your search filters based on what you specifically want and your specific budget. That includes size, amenities, location, school district, garage, yard, etc etc 2. Arrange showings for you. Sometimes you might want to go to open houses, but you don’t have to wait for those to see a house. You tell your realtor what you’re interested in and they can set up a time for just you and them to see the place 3. Access houses with funky lil lockboxes. Heist teams should include realtors—I’ve seen my guy get into the weirdest of devices in no time 4. Recommend places to you 5. Talk on your behalf with the seller’s agents or the sellers themselves 6. Take you all the way through your offers, acceptance, all the way to closing (basically, most of the rest of this post) -I am really lucky that a friend of mine is one of the best realtors in town (in my humble opinon). It really worked out for me, because when it came to negotiating price and terms with sellers and their agents, people already respected him and his expertise because he was a known fixture in the field. I’m not saying that an early-career or unknown realtor is bad, but reputation can do a lot of heavy lifting for you (as you’ll see later) -My realtor, S, is not only a friend, but also someone who has owned, rented, built, remodeled, bought, and sold everything from high rise condos to alpaca farms to tiny houses built in shipping containers. That experience was super useful to me for a few reasons: 1. He was very very good at looking at a roof, foundation, or basement, and saying “absolutely not, this is a mess” —I could only rarely see what he was talking about because I know nothing 2. If I looked at a space and said “what if I wanted to add a shower there?” or “could I make this basement area a bedroom?” S was able to pretty accurately estimate what that would cost. So that became part of the math as we looked at places, which was really useful and saved me so much time doing research on my own 3. He’s a queer artist who grew up in a nontraditional family and has lived many fascinating and non-standard lives. I only mention this because when I wanted to talk about my future and what my home could look like, I didn’t have to worry about S making assumptions about what “family” consists of or what my “role” would be. And as a single woman who is looking to adopt, that really meant a lot to me! -(side note if you’re in the Twin Cities and want S’s info, hit me up) -The most important thing about working with S, for me, is that he never made me feel foolish. I gradually got really good at talking about and looking at houses, but even when I asked questions that were obviously, or made incorrect assumptions, he never treated me like I should have known the answers, or like the process was supposed to be easy. And the guy genuinely loves houses!

What to Look For -You’ll want to find a house that fits what you want your life to be, not necessarily what it is at this moment. So think about what you want your day to day to be like. Will you be working from home at all? Do you have or want kids or pets? Do you want to be a person who hosts out of town guests? Do you want to have band practice at your place? Do you want to host D&D? Large holiday meals? Do you want to garden? Grill? Have a firepit? Do you have a car, or do you think you will? Do you have physical access needs based on your body, like particular types of doorways, floors, stairs, size of spaces, etc.? Are there furniture pieces that are important to you that you want to plan around? (For me, I have an electric piano, and placing that was super important).

-I’m a single person, and I want to adopt a kid, and I know I’ll need a roommate in order to afford my mortgage. So it was vital for me to find a house that either had 3 bedrooms, or had 2 bedrooms and a 3rd could be easily finished/added. it was also important that my roommate would have their own private space that was decent size for me to charge rent -Think about all year round. I live in Minnesota, and you better believe snow was top of mind at every house. As a renter, my landlord was supposed to deal, with anything over 3 inches (did he always? of course not). Now it’s my responsibility. What kind of trees are around? Do you have big storms? You need to pay attention to big branches and power lines. Is it getting super hot where you live? You probably want to prioritize central air, or shade.

-On the topic of central air - It’s pricey to add it to a house that doesn’t have forced air heat, because you have to add all the ductwork. If that’s the case and you don’t have that $$$, you can either go with window units or something called a mini-split. It’s basically mini air conditioners that heat floors separately, but have a better range than a window unit. -Does the house have a yard you want to deal with? How about a sidewalk you have to shovel (woe unto you in corner lots) -How does bussing work for the schools in your area, if that matters to you? -Some houses will be empty. Empty rooms look smaller than rooms that have shit in them -Some will be staged. People who stage houses don’t fill them with STUFF, so you’ll notice few bookcases, coatracks, etc. Think about the stuff you have, not the stuff they put in the house. -You will be AMAZED at how some people live. Seriously. Some people have a giant ass oak tree literally leaning on their roof and just deal with it. Some people have 3 bedroom houses, and the only bathroom is only accessible by going through one of the bedrooms. Some people have their fridge down a flight of stairs from the kitchen. Some people have their laundry in the basement, but the only access to the basement is through an outside door. In some climates that’s fine, but I live in fucking Minnesota -I had the instinct when I started looking that I needed to be entirely open to everything, and not be too picky. After about two weeks of looking (and S had me going to like 4-9 showings a day some days), I got real picky real fast. This was helpful for S and helpful for me, so we weren’t wasting time on houses that weren’t contenders. I learned that the houses’ feelings did not get hurt by me not wanting to buy them -Likewise, I started out being entirely open about where I wanted to live. Anywhere in the Cities or near suburbs, I said. But then I went to see houses in these places and realized I did not want to drive that far to work, or that the only way to access places was by the highway, so if it shuts down or there’s a bad snowstorm, I’m stuck. -To that end, i found it really helpful to make myself a Google map (you can make some and save them) of where I go. I included work, church, my bandmates houses, bars I like to go to, and my friends’ houses. Then whenever I was considering a house I’d plunk it on the map and see how it lined up with the realities of my life. -We’ll talk about offers in a sec, but remember that people can technically list their house for whatever number they want. So it’ll be up to you and your realtor to decide what’s fair. I mention this here, because a house may be listed way cheaper than others on your list—there’s likely a reason for that, but if it looks promising, give it a try! It could be that the reason it’s listed low doesn’t matter to you (i.e. it’s next to an annoying business that you don’t mind, or doesn’t have a garage but you don’t have a car, or the other houses int he neighborhood have yards and this doesn’t). Or it could be the seller needs to move it FAST and you can take advantage of their situation. -If you’re a handy person, a cheaper house might be a great option if fixing it up to be what you want is affordable for you. (Again, this is where a realtor like S can be super helpful to come up with those costs). For me, I didn’t want to do jack shit to the house, and I knew I’d be paying for that. (not that I don’t have a whole spreadsheet of eventual projects....but that’s invevitable) -Likewise, it can be helpful to set your filters to include houses a bit above your budget. Some people list their houses WAY higher than they should, so if you see a property that’s been on the market for a while (when I was looking the market was hothothot, so “a while” could mean anything over a week/10 days. In a slower market, you’ll want to look at those that have been listed for 30+ days), it might be worth checking out and then offering low. Chances are the seller will need to reduce the price anyway if they’re not getting any bites, and you could get a good deal by jumping in before they do that. -IDK where else to put this, but measure the garage. I didn’t, and I discovered like a month ago that my car (a little compact Toyota) is too long for my damn garage. It’s not that I wouldn’t have bought the house because of that, but I could have included it in some negotiations.

Offers -So you found a house you like! Now the scary part. 

-You’ll get a sense of the market from your realtor, and they can usually advise you about how quickly you need to move on a potential offer. Sometimes a seller will give a deadline themselves: they call this “best and highest.” So they’ll say “we’re hearing offers at 3pm tomorrow” or “we’re asking for best and highest on Monday.” Generally that’s the cutoff for receiving viable offers. -In the market when I was buying, it was pretty common for houses to sell for 20-40K over the asking price. Again, some houses would be listed too high or too low, as I mentioned before, but on average that’s what I was working with. There were also a TON of offers on all the properties I liked. The lowest number of offers on a house I tried to get was 5, the highest was 19. That is kind of insane. In a slower market, when you’re not competing with that many people, you can offer closer to the asking price (or some people just say “asking” as in “20 over asking”) -The first thing I did when I decided to put in an offer, was to talk to my realtor so he could start getting the paperwork together. You can’t just email the seller and say “i want your house,” there are legal documents that have to be drawn up to make it a binding agreement if it’s accepted. -My folks bought their house without a realtor and did all the negotiating, etc, themselves, but they still needed a realtor friend to do the paperwork for them. If you go that route, you can probably do more informal offers, but IDK how that works. -The next thing I did was contact my lender for the following things: 1. I gave them the address and asked “Does this fall within certain DPAs?” 2. I asked them to run some numbers for me. Usually it was a version of: “What would my monthly payment be if I offered $240K and put down $5K in earnest money, and if I had $20K of downpayment assistance? How about if I offered $245K or $250K? What if I only put down $2500?” This helped me figure out what kind of offer I could reasonably make, and what it would actually cost me monthly if I got the house. 3. Then, when I decided what I wanted to offer, I would ask for a preapproval letter that includes the address of the property, basically saying “hey we’re a lender and we will give Jay a loan of $XX to buy this house, pinky promise” -I copied S on all my communications with the lender, so he knew what I was considering and he could give advice -(sometimes I saw a house on Friday and had to make an offer by noon on Saturday, leading to me trying to call my lender at 9am on a Saturday morning, which sucked. This is why knowing who’s on your lender’s team and how to contact them matters) -There’s no hard and fast way to decide on a good offer, because you won’t know how many you’re competing against. Sometimes your realtor might be able to chat with the sellers agent and find out how many people saw the property, if they have a sense of how popular it is, but sometimes you want. You want to be able to afford it, but also not go so low that you won’t even be considered. -Usually, your realtor will ask you to write a love letter to the house to include in the offer. “Dear seller, I love your house because of blah blah blah, I can see myself doing blah blah blah, specifics specifics.” Do these matter? I don’t feel like they do but whatever. Make a template and update it for each offer. -One thing to note about this is that you DO NOT want to give information about yourself regarding your status in a protected class (i.e. “we’re a young queer couple; I’m a neurodivergent person; I’m an immigrant/veteran/belong to X racial group”). It might seem like that would be helpful in certain areas, but sellers aren’t legally allowed to pick a buyer based on those things, so it ends up working against you.  You can talk about what you do as a job or as a hobby, if you’re an artist, if you’re a parent, if you have pets, if you know who else will be living int he house with you, etc. You can hint at things. But S was very clear with me about keeping it pretty general and about the house. -Once you’ve decided on the $$$ you’re offering, you need to decide if there’s anything else to add to “sweeten the pot.” For some people, that’s saying “my timeline is totally flexible, so if you need to close in a month that’s fine, and if you need to close in 4 months that’s fine.” A lot of people choose to waive inspections. -OHHHHHH Ye olde inspection. Dear God. -The inspection is basically a thing where you hire a professional to look at the house before you officially seal the deal, and they tell you if there are things you need to be concerned about. So if the inspector comes in and says “yeah this roof is going to cave in in a year,” you can use that in your negotiation and say “look, I’m going to lower my offer by $15K, because I will need a new roof in a year.” then it’s up to the seller to decide if they want to agree to that, or if they want to try again to find a buyer who hopefully would not get an inspection. -to “waive an inspection” means that you’re agreeing to skip this step -OK so my instinct was always “I will NEVER waive the inspection,” and a lot of people feel that way. HOWEVER, I did not get certain houses because the people who did offered exactly what I did and waived the inspection. There was a buyer who had made SEVENTEEN OFFERS and beat me out on a house, and they got that house after SEVENTEEN OTHER TRIES because they waived an inspection. -I did get an inspection with my house, which was lucky and also thanks to S being a great negotiator. -I waived it on one of my offers -I would say I’d be comfortable waiving an inspection if: 1. You or your realtor knows shit about buildings, codes, etc. S knew a lot, so was able to look at things like furnaces, windows, basement beams, foundations, etc etc. 2. The important parts of the house are easily visible. Usually this means an unfinished basement. if the basement is finished, you probably can’t see all the structural things you’d need to 3. You’re already planning to do a bunch of work on a house, so you’re offering a lower bid and budgeting to do renovations anyway -At the end of the day, it’s your call. More about inspections below. -Most people who buy houses have mortgages, meaning that they can’t just drop $250K on a house. However, some people got it like that, so they make what is called a cash offer. Cash offers will win out every time, because they are usually higher, are easier for the sellers, and will often waive inspections. Depending on your region and your budget, you may or may not see this. I got screwed SO MANY TIMES and so did my friends, by all-cash, no inspection offers. The majority of these are from people who are buying properties to rent out or Airbnb - they won’t live there so they don’t really care if it’s solid, and my budget range seemed to be about where rich people who don’t want to flip a house felt comfortable buying. It was annoying. -but hey if you got it like that, go for it. -Once you have all the terms of your offer figured out, your realtor will send you the official offer paperwork that you’ll sign (prob. digitally). Then they’ll send it over to the seller and be in charge of all that communication. If the seller comes back with a counter, or with questions, your realtor will bring that to you. They may advise you, but at the end of the day it is up to you what you’ll offer and what you’ll accept.

You got accepted!

-Holy cats, they said yes to your offer and your terms! This is a huge moment to celebrate! I cried! And obsessively looked at pictures of the house over and over -The seller may come back to you with some proposed adjustments. In my case they wanted to round the selling price up by $1K, which I agreed to. (IDK why they cared, but in the grand scheme that was fine). They also wanted to change some of the verbiage in the offer that didn’t actually affect anything. -The first thing you’ll need to do is put down the earnest money. That is usually held in a trust or something similar until closing. But basically, if you said you’d put down $5K of your own money in the offer, you have to prove you have it right away. So don’t offer to put down earnest money that you don’t have! -The higher this number, the more appealing your offer generally is -There are a lot of things that will need to wait until you close, so this period of time feels really weird -You’ll have a purchase agreement (along with any addendums or changes) that basically says “I’m Jay and I offer $XX, the seller agreed to the price and the terms, we’ll see how it goes from here and if it all goes well, this deal will go through” -I’m gonna say it now, don’t ask me about escrow. Escrow is basically like an account where money lives between you and the bank. You pay extra into this account so that if something happens and you can’t pay what you agreed, the bank still gets the money for a certain period of time. or something like that, I don’t know, it gives me a headache. I’m sure other people understand it better.

Next steps

Inspection -If you included an inspection in your offer/purchase agreement, you’ll want to set that up within a few days. (Don’t worry about booking “last minute,” inspectors pretty much always work on that kind of schedule. Very few people are booking inspectors weeks in advance. This was something I felt bad about, but it’s okay)

-Inspections are pricey, and usually have different packages that include different things. I chose to do the sewer scope bc I had a friend who found some crazy sewer issues and I didn’t want to deal with it. Your realtor can probably give you advice on what you might need. -Inspector look at a lot of things: all your systems (like heating, cooling, pipes, electricity, etc),  your windows, roof, foundation, gutters, attics, floors, plumping, appliances, etc. -They do NOT open walls/ceilings/floors, etc. So if it’s not visible, they won’t be able to report on it.  -They’ll send you a big ol’ report, and if you can be there with them they’ll do a walk through with you to talk over big issues. Your realtor should come to that as well, as they might have good questions. -After you have the information, you have to decide if there are any big issues that need to be addressed. The inspector will flag things that are a problem legally, but it’s up to you how much you care about them. Some will be easy fixes. Others might be deal breakers that mean you decide to walk away from the property entirely. Most things will be in the middle.  -Note that some things are legally “issues” but practically may not matter. There are certain outlets on the outside of my house that aren’t right, but I don’t intend to use them much and if it turns out I need to, it’s not that expensive to switch them out. My basement stairs are an absolutely death trap, but my laundry is upstairs and so i dont really need to use them much. I could spend like $4K to replace them, but I don’t care at this point, and it’s not a big issue for me. But legally they are terrible. -Some things may be an absolute problem that the seller needs to deal with before you’ll agree to by the house. -You and your realtor will come up with a list of things you want to tell the seller to fix before closing. They might fight you on some of them, and again that’s why the realtor being a good negotiator matters. -Generally, you want to ask for fixes on the important things, without asking for every little thing, so the seller doesn’t decide you’re too much trouble and they could probably back out and get a better offer that wouldn’t cost them as much in repairs. -for me, the garage door was busted so they defnitely needed to fix that. There was a pipe that was put in wrong that was a quick fix. And there were birds in the attic, so they needed to clear those out and go through and block up all the entry points in the room. All of these requests were reasonable, and the sellers agreed to them. -At this point, it’s up to you if you want to pay for a re-inspection (i.e. the inspector coming back to verify that they did all the work they were supposed to). I didn’t—instead I had them give me all the receipts from the work that was done along with photos and video of the work. That way if something is a problem in the future, I can contact the companies that did the work and take advantage of warranties, etc.

Home Service Warranty -Speaking of warranties! There’s a thing called a Home Service Warranty that you’ll need to decide on. Mine is through American Home Shield. Basically this is a warranty that covers things in your house. There are different levels of coverage, so some just cover the big things like windows/roof/furnace/water heater/etc. As you upgrade, it’ll include things like stoves, fridges, dishwashers, etc. -If you’re getting your own warranty, you basically pay a certain amount per month for the coverage. Then if any of the covered things break down, it get’s fixed for free (plus a small service charge. For me that’s $125). So if your inspector tells you “hey, you’ve got about a year left on this water heater” or “the furnace has some issues that might come up in a few years” you could save a BUNCH of money by having this coverage. -My realtor got this warranty included in my purchase agreement, so the seller is actually paying for a. year of my coverage at he upgraded level. This is SICK AS HELL and not every realtor will think of it—definitely mention it to yours. I didn’t even think of it as an option. Basically what this means is that if any of my stuff breaks this first year, I can get it replaced for very cheap AND I don’t even have to pay the monthly coverage fee. -When I moved in, my shower was broken. I tried to fix it, but the called AHS and I only paid $125 for a plumber to come look at it, order parts (which would have been pricey since my house is pretty old), and fix it for me. I hate my fridge, so I have a goal to break it this year so I can get a new one for free.

Appraisal -Okay, so you got the seller to agree to your fixes, everything is moving apace. It is time for the GOD DAMN APPRAISAL -(for many people, the appraisal is fine and is not GOD DAMN anything. For me, it was a nightmare and I didn’t sleep for like 2 weeks) -Okay so what is an appraisal. Basically, the seller said “my house is worth $XX” you said “I’ll pay $XX for it.” Your lender said “we’ll give Jay a loan for $XX.” But now someone else has to look at the house and determine if it’s a fair price for the house. This is what really determines the loan you’ll get (this is also why what you’ve gotten so far is a pre-approval. They’ve basically said “you’re capable of paying back a loan of $XX, but we need an outside agency to determine if this house is worth is”) -The appraiser will look at the house, inspection reports, and other sales of similar houses in your area. Ideally, this helps them determine if the price you and the seller have agreed on is in line with what is reasonable. -Banks are not going to give you a $400K loan on a potting shed in a ditch -It’s all complicated and this is where a lot of shit in the Housing Crisis came from -Basically, you want the appraisal to come at or higher than your purchase price. (if it comes in higher, do a little dance bc you got a deal) -If it comes in lower, you can be in trouble. That’s what happened to me. -A note about rules & regs - lenders cannot talk directly to appraisers. This is because of the housing crisis and all the shady backroom deals that were happening (i.e. if you appraise this house at this price, we’ll give you Mr. Appraiser Guy some kickbacks from the extra money we’re making in mortgage interest or whatever). In practical terms, this means it takes FOREVER to get messages to all the parties involved.  -If the appraisal comes in low, you can ask for a reappraisal. It’s up to the appraiser if they agree. There are rules about this. -What Happened To Me: OK so my house is in a historically Black and immigrant neighborhood (read, historically redlined). This means a lot of the properties here are undervalued based on other locations. In a hot market, even undervalued properties can go up in price in a big way. In a slow market, that doesn’t happen so much. My appraiser only wanted to pull comps (meaning comparable sales of similar houses in the same area) in my exact neighborhood. However, there hadn’t been any sales of similar size/age/etc houses in my exact neighborhood since last winter. Guess what the market is like in the winter in Minnesota! Fucking SLOW boy. So these comps were coming in like $20K lower than my agreed price. So my realtor and lender took a look and said “look, if we widen out a little bit to these nearby neighborhoods, we can see all these more recent sales that are closer to our price.” It took two weeks of back and forth to get the appraiser to agree to add some of these comps to the appraisal. He was really reluctant to look outside my immediate area, because my neighborhood is of “lower value” than the surrounding areas. Structural racism, baby. Not against me, but against my neighbors and everyone who’s lived in this area for the past 150 years. Hooray. Finally, I got a re-appraisal that was $8K lower than my purchase price. So I was in a pickle. I had an agreement with the seller saying I’ll pay $XX, while the bank is now saying “we’ll only give you a loan for $XX-minus-$8K.” So either I need to come up with $8K MORE of a down payment in earnest money, or I need the purchase price to go down. Or i need to find more assistance. HERE IS WHERE HAVING S MADE ALL THE DIFFERENCE. He went to the seller and basically used his status and significant experience to say “Look, you can either agree to lower the purchase price by $8K, or we all walk away. If we walk away, this means you have to re-list the house, wait for more offers. And then even if you get an offer as good as or better than Jay’s, that person will still need to go through the appraisal process. So...  you’ll probably be right back here. The only chance you have of skipping appraisal is if someone comes in with a cash offer, meaning they won’t need a loan and no bank is involved. But for a lot of the reasons the appraisal is low, those types of buyers (who often want rentals/vacation rental properties) ain’t looking to buy in this neighborhood.”

(or that’s what I imagine he said. It was probably smarter)

ANYWAY, all that to say a MIRACLE occurred, and the seller agreed to lower the purchase price of the house by $8K. I can tell you the whole story of how I found out over a drink sometime, but let me tell you I wepttttttt

-Anyhow, once the appraisal is good and you’re pretty sure the deal is going through, you gotta get insurance. call a bunch of places, figure out what coverage you need, see if it’s cheaper or easier to put car/life/etc in the same place. You have to have insurance if you have a home loan - basically the bank owns the house, so it’s in their interest to have it covered in case of disaster.

Closing

-I’m going to be quick on this, because it’s super technical and I only kind of understand it. -Closing is basically the day where you sign all the paperwork, after which the house is yours! Then you can start moving, renovating, decorating, whatever you want. -One of the things that’s part of closing is the Title and Title Insurance. Basically, you need to pay to have the paper that says you own the house, and then you have to pay for insurance on that piece of paper. Why. IDK.  -At this point there’s so many random fees and charges, I just kind of looked at the totals and made sure nothing was way out of range of what I expected.  -A few days before closing, you should have the following: 1. receipts/evidence from any fixes made to the house or a re-inspection report 2. Closing disclosures, which basically means any information that’s attatched to the deed for the home. This can include unpaid property taxes, any weird liens on the property, any easement agreements with neighbors you should know about, etc. 3. All the paperwork you will sign! -It is in your best interest to read ALL OF IT if you can. (the title person was surprised I’d read mine, which I found super worrying lol) -If you are buying a house by yourself, you will not BELIEVE how many times you will read “Jay, A SINGLE PERSON, is buying a house ALONE AND BY THEMSELF, as a SINGLE UNMARRIED ALONE PERSON” Very judgy. What are you, my grandma? -One thing about disclosures—it’s up to your title company to do research on weird shit that might be attached to your property. You can technically choose your title company, but I wouldn’t not recommend looking for the cheapest option if the company doesn’t have much of a track record. I had an issue come up with a payment the seller owed that was delayed, and my title company had to be the one that caught that. My friend and his husband got in trouble because some seller 5 years ago didn’t pay property taxes, and so the IRS came for THEM. The title company should have caught that before they closed and had it dealt with. They won’t end up paying it, but it’s a huge pain and they have to argue with the IRS which is never fun. -On closing day, you’ll do a final walk through with your realtor. This is your last chance to bring up any issues! You DEFINITELY want to do this walk through. If the seller left the door unlocked and an entire family has taken up residence in the living room, you need to know! If the contractor they hired to fix the plumbing knocked a new whole in the wall, you need to know! Don’t expect that the seller will tell you about any new issues that they caused. -This is your last chance to say “Hey, there’s a new major issue that wasn’t reporting, i ain’t signing shit until we re-negotiate” -If you find yourself in this situation (hopefully you won’t!) PLEASE don’t be afraid to say something! Don’t worry about how much time and money has already been put into it, or about calling out a seller who is acting in bad faith or fucked somethign up. This is your house! It matters! And your realtor should have your back. -But most of the time, the final walk through is fine! Then you go somewhere to sign all the paperwork. If you’re like me and have 3 different types of DPA, it will be two giant folders worth of paperwork.  -Once you sign the paperwork with the Title Company, they’ll put the paperwork through. After that happens, the bank should transfer the whole ass agreed amount to the seller. Also, if your DPA is in the form of other smaller loans from other sources, those should be paying to the seller at the same time. -in MY case, one of my DPAs took 3 hours to process for some reason, so I had the most anti-climactic closing ever. I signed everything, waited for an hour and a half, and then they were like “you can go, we’ll email you when you officially own the house” So I just awkwardly hung around and ate pancakes until I got the email. -Let’s say you have a relative who wants to help you out with your downpayment (Yay! Every little bit counts!) Or let’s say you’re living with someone who doesn’t want the house to be in their name, but they want to contribute to these initial costs. You’ll want to talk to your lender about this as soon as you know about it. There is special paperwork for “gifts” that basically let’s it go directly to you downpayment but it doesn’t count towards your income. So if Grandma Bob says “I got $10K for you” and you just deposit the check in your account and plan to pay $10K more in earnest money, that will suddenly look like you have $10K more money to your name, so might change how your loan and DPA shake out. But if you get Grandma Bob to sign a particular document and give you a certified check, you can just give that right to the Title person and it goes right to making your downpayment bigger, therefore making your loan smaller! Thanks Grandma Bob! -”Cash to close” is essentially what you are paying at closing via all sources. So that’s your downpayment (including all assistance) any gifts, your earnest money, etc. Sometimes you have additional closing costs. They may be covered by DPA, or you may be on the hook to write an additional check. You’ll know this in advance. -Hey, check it out, you own a house now! -(keep all your paperwork0 -They’ll give you a document you have the file with the city called Homestead filing, basically telling the city that you own a house and you live there.

NOW WHAT?

-Now I’m done telling you things. Feel free to DM me if you want to talk more, but also talk to professionals in your region who know things. -I started writing this post before I closed in July 2023. It’s now mid-November, and I’ve been living here for 3 months. Here’s some stuff I’ve learned that might be helpful: 1. It’s good to know what kid of walls you have (drywall vs. plaster and lathe, etc) because that determines how you can hang things on them. Also if you have plaster walls, just get a cheap magnetic stud finder. The fancy electronic ones often don’t work 2. It’s good to have a drill. It just is. 3. If there’s a big project you need done (say your garage is too short for your goddamn car), you may qualify for a home improvement loan from the same kind of orgs that give DPA. I’m doing it just because I don’t want to drop $3K in one go. Technically I have 4 years to pay it off, but I’m going to make larger monthly payments and pay it offer quicker than that.  4. We can talk about contractors and permit and zoning all day. Suffice to say, it’s good to look up who to talk to at the city about construction permits, and they can be both incredibly confusing and very nice. Often at the same time. 5. If you’re gonna have a roommate or partner or non-child family member who is paying you monthly to help with the mortgage, DRAW UP A LEASE. You want shit in writing, and they have rights as tenants that need to be respected. Many a relationship has been saved by PUTTING SHIT IN WRITING. (there are templates you can find) 6. FEELINGS: People always tell you “You won’t know how you feel about X until you do it.” Getting a dog, moving away from your folks, living with a partner, whatever. I am here as an old man to tell you, they are right. I had no idea I would have such BIG FEELINGS about this lil old house. When I come home and my roommate has the lights on and it has a glow, I feel so much that sometimes I cry! Setting things up, making decisions about organization, learning how to be in my space, means so so much more to me now than it ever did when I was renting. The stress is greater, too, because I have to make all the decisions! It’s exhausting! But every day in my house I am so happy to be here, I’m so glad my other offers weren’t accepted, because this is the best of the houses I looked at. It is my 117 year old baby and I love it forever.

Also I never want to do this again lol I’ve decided to die here.

[labourmarketanalysis]

Wage Inequality and Labour Market

By Sraddha R

In this blog post, we'll look at three compelling studies that shed light on wage disparities in Europe and India, as well as the critical role of labour market institutions. Take a seat, and let's get started!

INTRODUCTION

The labour market serves as a barometer for trends in employment, economic well-being, and the broader societal challenges posed by wage inequality. Our investigation begins with an acknowledgement of the modern global economy's profound impact on globalisation, technological advancements, and evolving work structures. These seismic shifts reshape industries, redefine skill requirements, and, as a result, affect wage structures. Wage inequality, which reflects the unequal distribution of earnings across gender, ethnicity, education, and occupation, is at the heart of this complex issue.

Study 1: The Structure of the Labour Market and Wage Inequality in European Countries

This study focuses on France, Germany, and Italy, meticulously analysing changes in wage inequality from 2005 to 2013. The findings show distinct patterns, such as a decrease in wage inequality in Germany, a decrease in France with explicit job polarisation structures, and a significant increase in Italy. Using a decomposition approach, the study considers variables such as gender, marital status, health, experience, education, contract type, economic status, and job categories.

The study emphasises the role of national labor-market protections, historical policy spending, and broader socioeconomic and political factors in shaping wage inequality trends. Tailored policy recommendations are emerging, urging France and Germany to implement policies that promote women's participation and improve job-related careers. In contrast, Italy faces challenges such as a lack of a legal minimum wage and political instability, necessitating specific policy responses.

Study 2: Recent Trends in India's Wealth Inequality

Using data from the Annual Income and Expenditure Surveys, this paper investigates wealth inequality in India using decomposition analyses. The study differentiates contributions from within and between group components, identifying sources of wealth concentration and drawing parallels between wealth and consumption inequality trends.

According to the study, increasing wealth concentration in India is linked to neoliberal growth, emphasising the failure to address employment and earnings disparities. While the study provides valuable insights, it is suggested that a more explicit discussion of policy implications and interventions be included. A complex policy framework is required to guide future research and inform effective policy decisions.

Wage Inequality and Low Pay: The Role of Labour Market Institutions, Study 3

The impact of labour market institutions on low-wage employment in OECD countries is investigated in this study. It seeks to comprehend the impact of trade unions, collective bargaining, and wage regulations on wage distribution, particularly in low-wage industries. The study distinguishes between different wage distribution segments, recognising variations in the analysis through the use of bivariate correlations and incorporating various control variables such as minimum wages and unemployment benefits.

According to the study's findings, labour market institutions account for more than 60% of cross-country differences in low pay. According to the study, strong unions protect against low pay, whereas centralised bargaining systems effectively limit wage disparities at the top. Minimum wages and welfare systems have varying effects across wage distribution segments. Governments, according to the study, can address rising earnings disparities and low-wage employment by supporting effective labor market institutions.

Comparative Evaluation

Our comparative analysis reveals the distinct perspectives provided by each study, shedding light on various dimensions and dynamics in different countries. The in-depth examination of economic inequality ranges from changes in wage inequality in European countries to wealth dynamics in India and the impact of labour market institutions on low-wage employment in OECD countries.

Conclusion

Taken together, the studies emphasise the interconnectedness of factors influencing income distribution and the importance of nuanced, context-specific policy decisions. The journey has shed light on labour market dynamics and economic outcomes, emphasising the complexities of addressing wage inequality in our pursuit of an equitable future where the benefits of economic growth are shared by all.

[eternalistic]

The stark brutality of chattel slavery is absent in today's world, but the systemic inequities and hidden forms of economic control persist, albeit in different forms. By comparing the conditions of historic slaves with modern working-class people it becomes apparent that economic exploitation and wealth disparity need to be at the forefront of today's political discourse.

Continuities:

Labor exploitation: Both systems extract disproportionate value from a specific group's labor for the benefit of others. Slaves were forced to work without compensation, while many modern workers face low wages, precarious employment, and limited bargaining power, leaving them susceptible to exploitation.

Wealth disparity: Both systems exacerbate wealth inequality. Slaves had no ownership of their labor or its fruits, while the wealth generated by modern workers often concentrates at the top of the economic pyramid, creating a widening gap between rich and poor.

Limited mobility: Both systems restrict upward mobility for the exploited group. Slaves were legally bound to their owners, while modern systemic barriers like discriminatory hiring practices, inadequate education, and debt-based control can confine individuals to lower economic strata.

Psychological impact: Both systems can inflict psychological harm. Slaves endured constant dehumanization and fear of violence, while modern workers can face chronic stress, anxiety, and powerlessness due to precarious employment and economic insecurity.

Transformations:

Formal freedom: Modern workers have legal freedoms and autonomy denied to slaves. They can choose their employers, negotiate wages, and participate in civic life.

Social mobility channels: While limited, some avenues for upward mobility exist in modern society through education, skills training, and entrepreneurial ventures, which were largely unavailable to slaves.

Social safety nets: Modern societies typically have some form of social safety net, albeit often inadequate, providing limited protections like unemployment benefits or healthcare access, which were absent for slaves.

Transformation of control: Control in modern systems is often more subtle and diffuse, operating through debt, lack of ownership, and market forces rather than overt coercion.

Hidden "Economic Slavery":

The concept of "economic slavery" suggests that modern systems can still perpetuate forms of exploitation similar to historical slavery, albeit less visibly. This can manifest in:

Debt traps: Predatory lending practices and high-interest rates can trap individuals in cycles of debt, effectively controlling their labor and choices.

Wage theft: Employers who deny overtime pay, minimum wage, or other earned wages essentially steal from their workers.

Exploitative labor practices: In some industries, migrant workers or marginalized groups face unsafe working conditions, low wages, and limited legal protections, resembling forms of forced labor.

Limited ownership: Lack of access to affordable housing, land, or productive assets limits economic agency and perpetuates dependence on wage labor.

Unveiling and Addressing Systemic Inequities:

Acknowledging the continuities and transformations is crucial for addressing the enduring legacies of economic exploitation. We need to:

Strengthen workers' rights: Promote fair wages, secure employment, and protections against exploitation.

Reduce wealth inequality: Implement progressive taxation, address wage gaps, and promote wealth-building opportunities for marginalized groups.

Increase social mobility: Invest in education, training, and infrastructure to provide equal opportunity for upward mobility.

Challenge systemic biases: Address discriminatory practices in hiring, lending, and access to resources.

Support worker movements: Encourage worker organization and collective bargaining to empower workers and advocate for their rights.

By recognizing the hidden forms of economic control and tackling their root causes, we can work towards a more equitable future where everyone has the opportunity to benefit from their labor and participate fully in society.

[sureuncertainty]

i'm actually so livid right now. i work for disney and one of the biggest perks they offer (well, used to offer) is what's called the Aspire program, which funds tuition for higher education completely. So I decided to pursue a master's degree with the understanding that it would be fully funded by my employer. and now they've just decided (with NO warning) to change that, effective immediately, and introduce a funding cap for what they'll provide tuition. which does not cover the literal THREE classes that I have left to graduate. that i cannot afford. I am literally almost done with my program, I've been in it for over a year, worked my fucking ass off with the understanding that it's paid for and now suddenly it's not

the fact that they're taking away this benefit is already shitty enough but that they're doing it to anyone who is like. in the middle of a program is like. what the ACTUAL fuck. because now I get to choose between paying out of pocket for classes I cannot afford, when I can barely even afford rent, (and if I did have extra money i'd be using it for other things), waiting another year or possibly two to finish my program to stay under the yearly funding limit, or just cutting my losses and dropping out, essentially throwing away the months of work I've already dedicated to this degree

and like. man i wanna look at options but I kinda wanna just say fuck it and quit my studies, spend that time working on silence agenda, which i ACTUALLY want to do, and then also quit my job and work somewhere else since i'm getting burnt out at work anyway. like i have homework due in a few days but why does it fucking matter now why should I sink MORE time into this degree that i might never even be able to get. I was so fucking close.

so yeah. feeling pretty scammed and cheated right now. apparently they did try this once in the past and ended up reversing it due to public pressure? so I've been holding out hope that they'll do that again but it's looking pretty unlikely at this point.

[disabilityepicenter]

SSDI Approval Rate by Age: How Age Influences Your Social Security Disability Claim

Applying for Social Security Disability Income (SSDI) is a critical step for many individuals who find themselves unable to work due to a disabling condition. While several factors contribute to the approval or denial of an SSDI application, age plays a significant role in how the Social Security Administration (SSA) evaluates claims. Understanding how SSDI approval rates differ by age can help applicants better navigate the process and, when necessary, seek the assistance of an SSDI attorney to increase their chances of success.

How the SSA Evaluates SSDI Claims by Age

The SSA uses a five-step evaluation process when determining whether an applicant is eligible for SSDI benefits. While medical evidence, work history, and the severity of the disability are crucial factors, age is a variable that can significantly influence the outcome. Why? The SSA considers how age affects a person's ability to transition into other work.

Younger Workers (Under 50 Years Old)SSDI approval rates for younger individuals tend to be lower than for older applicants. This is because the SSA assumes that younger people are more likely to adapt to new types of work, even if their disability prevents them from continuing their previous job. For example, if a 40-year-old construction worker becomes disabled, the SSA may assess whether they can be retrained for a less physically demanding job, such as administrative work.

This can make it harder for younger applicants to get approved without significant medical evidence that shows they are unable to perform any substantial gainful activity (SGA). Many younger claimants find that working with an SSDI attorney can improve their chances of approval by building a stronger case.

Middle-Aged Workers (50-54 Years Old)For applicants aged 50 to 54, the SSDI approval rate tends to increase. The SSA recognizes that transitioning to a new career becomes more difficult as workers age. Therefore, individuals in this age group may have an easier time getting approved for SSDI if they can demonstrate that they cannot perform their past work and that it is unlikely they could adjust to other types of work.

In this age range, the SSA applies a set of "Grid Rules," which take into account age, education, and work experience. These rules are more favorable to individuals aged 50 and older. An SSDI attorney can help applicants in this age group understand how these rules apply to their case and assist in gathering the necessary documentation to meet the SSA’s criteria.

Older Workers (55 Years and Older)For individuals 55 and older, SSDI approval rates are significantly higher. The SSA understands that retraining older workers for new types of employment is often unrealistic, especially for those with limited educational backgrounds or specialized skills. In many cases, applicants in this age group only need to prove that they cannot return to their previous line of work, and the SSA will not expect them to adjust to a new career.

The "Grid Rules" become even more favorable at this stage, as the SSA is more lenient with older applicants. However, older workers should still ensure they provide comprehensive medical documentation and proof of their inability to work. Consulting with an SSDI attorney may not always be necessary at this age, but it can certainly streamline the process and increase the likelihood of approval.

Why SSDI Approval Rates Vary by Age

Several factors explain why SSDI approval rates increase as applicants get older:

Diminished Ability to Transition to New Work: As workers age, their ability to learn new skills or switch to a different line of work diminishes. The SSA recognizes this, which leads to higher approval rates for older applicants.

Cumulative Health Issues: Older individuals are more likely to have multiple health problems, which can make it more difficult for them to maintain employment. These cumulative issues strengthen their SSDI application.

Favorable Grid Rules: The SSA’s Grid Rules, which consider age, education, and work experience, are more lenient for applicants over 50. This gives older workers an advantage when applying for SSDI benefits.

How an SSDI Attorney Can Help at Any Age

Regardless of your age, the SSDI application process can be complex and challenging. Even younger applicants with clear disabilities can face hurdles due to the SSA’s stringent criteria. Hiring an experienced SSDI attorney can improve your chances of a successful claim, particularly if:

Your initial SSDI application is denied.

You need help gathering medical evidence or completing the paperwork.

You are unsure how to navigate the appeals process.

An SSDI attorney can help ensure that your claim is filed correctly and that all necessary documentation is provided. This can be especially beneficial for younger applicants, who face higher scrutiny, but is also helpful for older applicants who want to ensure they meet all the requirements for approval.

Final Thoughts

SSDI approval rate by age are influenced by many factors, with age being one of the most significant. Younger applicants may face a more challenging path to approval, while older workers often benefit from more favorable evaluation criteria. Whether you are 30 or 60, understanding how age impacts the SSDI process can help you better prepare your SSDI application. For those facing difficulties, consulting with an SSDI attorney can make all the difference in securing the benefits you need.

[pilawturkey]

Turkish Citizenship by Investment

Turkish Citizenship by Investment has been a matter of discussion for particularly every single Turkish immigration lawyer and Turkish business lawyer. There are several discussions and arguments over the years. Therefore, we will analyze that matter here.

What is Turkish Citizenship by Investment? 

Fundamental feature of Turkish Citizenship by Investment is that it is seen the fastest and safest route for gaining citizenship.

Turkish Immigration lawyers or Turkish citizenship lawyers are very good at evaluating legitimate reasons for each program.  There is a clear procedure that should be carried out carefully. Therefore, a professional help by Turkish citizenship lawyer may be very helpful for each state.

Is Turkish Citizenship by Investment worth it?

Turkish Citizenship by Investment is designed for granting individuals citizenship by means of local investment in a relevant country or region. Citizenship by investment programs (CIPs) currently offered by most jurisdictions across the world. Individuals apply to CIPs with a view to traveling freely, starting up a new business and or benefiting from educational or occasional opportunities in a different part of the world. Turkish Citizenship by Investment has been a matter of discussion in Turkey over the years.

What are the rules for Turkish Citizenship by Investment? 

In the case of Article 20 of the Regulation on the Implementation of the Law on Turkish Citizenship (No:5901), there are limited ways of obtaining Turkish citizenship through investment. In summary, Turkey citizenship by investment is possible through investment in Turkey for citizenship:

Citizenship by property purchase

Citizenship by capital investment

Citizenship by employment

Is it hard to get Turkish Citizenship by Investment?

According to some reports, more than 7.000 foreigners obtained Turkish Citizenship by Investment thanks to home purchase only between 2014-2017. Citizenship by investment in Turkey is seen very attractive by foreign nationals as a way of foreign direct investment. Because of challenging aspects of each programme, an embracing legal guidance by Turkish citizenship lawyer may be very useful for a right conclusion.

Can you get Turkish Citizenship by Investment based on a capital transfer? 

Under the Turkish citizenship by investment rules, foreign capital investors may be eligible for citizenship by investment in Turkey. In this context, making a minimum of fixed capital investment of USD 500.000 or equivalent foreign currency or Turkish lira, as attested by the Ministry of Industry and Technology may provide alien investors with citizenship in Turkey. Once needs to bear in mind that Turkey venture capital lawyers are very skillful to manage the process. Minimum level of venture capital in Turkish law is 500.000 USD.

Can I buy property in Turkey and get Turkish citizenship by investment? 

In the recent decade, the economic downturn has been a matter of concern facing the international community all over the world. As a response to economic hardships, new amendments are designed for attracting direct foreign investments. Granting citizenship owing to any kind of property purchase is a leading method.

How much does it cost to invest in turkey to get Turkish Citizenship by Investment? 

Turkish government took a new decision increasing the minimum real estate investment to qualify for citizenship, from the previous USD 250.000 to USD 400.000. The said decision enters into force following the Official Gazette publication in May 2022.

You can find more information about Turkish citizenship by investment for 2024 at https://www.pilc.law/turkish-citizenship-by-investment/

[thecpdiary]

The Unseen Costs of Brexit

Brexit has undeniably altered the UK’s relationship with the EU and had significant consequences on various aspects of daily life, from travel and living abroad to education and employment opportunities. Through writing, I focus on the points that drive home the message of the tangible impacts of Brexit and the need for progressive leadership.

A Call for Change Brexit was sold as a move to reclaim sovereignty and control, but the reality for many has been a profound loss. As we navigate the aftermath, it becomes increasingly clear that the promises made have led to unforeseen consequences for all citizens.

Political Reaction

Immigration became a central issue in political debates. Parties and movements advocating for Brexit, such as the UK Independence Party (UKIP) and the Leave campaign, capitalised on public concerns about immigration. They argued that leaving the EU would allow the UK to regain control over its borders and immigration policy.

Loss of Freedom to Travel and Live Abroad

The ability to travel and live freely across EU countries has been curtailed. For many, this has meant giving up dreams of retiring in sunny Spain, pursuing careers in cosmopolitan cities like Paris or Berlin, or even just experiencing the richness of European cultures firsthand. Travel Restrictions

Visa requirements and limited stays in EU countries have replaced our previously seamless travel experience.

Relocation Barriers

Moving abroad now involves complex immigration processes, impacting those who once planned to retire, study or work in the EU. Education and Employment Opportunities

Younger generations, who were just beginning to explore their futures, have been particularly hard hit. The opportunities to study, live, and work in the EU, which were once easily accessible, have become complicated and prohibitively expensive. Erasmus Withdrawal

Students have lost access to the Erasmus+ programme, which provided opportunities to study across Europe, enriching their academic and cultural experiences.

Job Market Challenges

Employment in the EU now comes with additional hurdles, limiting career prospects that were once easily accessible and attainable. Economic and Social Impact

Brexit’s economic fallout has led to job losses and business closures. The promise of newfound economic prosperity seems hollow as industries struggle and communities face financial uncertainty. Trade Barriers

New tariffs and regulations have disrupted supply chains, increased costs and have created many challenges for businesses, especially small enterprises.

Social Division

The referendum and its aftermath have deepened societal divisions, with communities becoming polarised and national discourse often mired in conflict. Politicians' Disconnect

While many politicians who championed Brexit continue to lead comfortable lives, still enjoying the benefits of EU residency or citizenship, ordinary citizens are now facing the brunt of the fallout. The Hypocrisy of Brexit

David Cameron, Nigel Farage, and Boris Johnson who appear to remain unaffected, highlighting a glaring disparity between the rhetoric used to amass votes, and the reality for the average person. There is a growing need to hold leaders accountable for the promises made versus the outcomes delivered. A Call to Action: Make Your Vote Count

As we approach the General Election, it is crucial to advocate for politicians who recognise the damage done and are willing to pursue policies that can repair and rebuild our connections with the EU. We need leaders with vision and a commitment to reversing the detrimental impacts of Brexit. Support Forward-Thinking Leaders

Choose candidates who are focused on restoring opportunities, enhancing economic stability and fostering unity both within the UK and with our European neighbours; advocate for policies that will ease travel, education and employment barriers, ensuring that future generations do not miss out on the opportunities we have taken for granted. Brexit has undoubtedly changed the landscape of the UK. By voting and demanding accountability, we can strive towards a future that reclaims the lost freedoms and opportunities, ensuring a brighter and more inclusive path moving forward. This approach underscores the concrete impacts of Brexit while appealing to a sense of agency and the need for action, encouraging us to vote for much needed change in the upcoming election.

Informed Writing for Democracy I hope my efforts to write about these issues will contribute to a more informed electorate. Writing about important topics can inform and educate the public, which is essential for a healthy democracy. By sharing my perspectives and insights, I aim to spark conversations, challenge prevailing narratives and encourage others to think critically about the issues that matter when choosing the party they vote for.

For more relatable, inspirational and lifestyle blogs, please check out my site https://www.thecpdiary.com

[harmonyhealinghub]

Embracing Neurodiversity: World Autism Awareness Day and Month Shaina Tranquilino April 30, 2024

Diversity should be celebrated, and it's crucial to recognize and understand the spectrum of human experiences. World Autism Awareness Day, observed on April 2nd, and Autism Awareness Month throughout April, serve as vital reminders to promote acceptance, understanding, and inclusion for individuals on the autism spectrum.

Understanding Autism: Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a complex developmental condition that typically appears during early childhood and affects a person's communication, social interaction, and behaviour. However, it's essential to remember that autism is a spectrum disorder, meaning it manifests differently in each individual. Some may have exceptional abilities in certain areas, while others may face significant challenges in everyday tasks.

Breaking Stereotypes: One of the critical goals of World Autism Awareness Day and Month is to break down stereotypes and misconceptions surrounding autism. People with autism are often portrayed in the media in limited and sometimes inaccurate ways. By promoting awareness and understanding, we can challenge these stereotypes and foster a more inclusive society.

Celebrating Neurodiversity: Neurodiversity emphasizes the idea that neurological differences, including autism, are natural variations of the human experience. Just as we celebrate cultural and ethnic diversity, it's equally important to embrace neurodiversity. Each individual, regardless of their neurological makeup, brings unique perspectives, talents, and contributions to society.

Promoting Inclusion: Inclusive practices benefit everyone, not just individuals with autism. By creating environments that accommodate diverse needs, we foster a sense of belonging and respect for all. Schools, workplaces, and communities can implement strategies such as sensory-friendly spaces, clear communication techniques, and inclusive policies to ensure that individuals with autism can fully participate and thrive.

Supporting Families and Caregivers: World Autism Awareness Day and Month also highlight the importance of supporting families and caregivers of individuals with autism. Raising a child with autism can present unique challenges, from accessing appropriate services to navigating social stigma. Providing resources, support groups, and access to inclusive education and healthcare services can make a significant difference in the lives of families affected by autism.

Advocating for Change: While progress has been made in raising awareness and promoting inclusion, there is still much work to be done. Advocacy efforts are essential in advocating for policies that protect the rights and dignity of individuals with autism. This includes advocating for accessible healthcare, education, employment opportunities, and accommodations to ensure equal participation and opportunities for all.

Taking Action: As individuals, we can all play a role in promoting autism awareness and acceptance. Whether it's educating ourselves and others, volunteering with autism organizations, or simply being more inclusive in our daily interactions, every action counts. Together, we can create a more understanding and supportive world for individuals with autism and their families.

World Autism Awareness Day and Month serve as important reminders to celebrate neurodiversity, promote inclusion, and advocate for the rights and well-being of individuals with autism. By raising awareness, challenging stereotypes, and fostering understanding, we can create a more compassionate and inclusive society where everyone is valued and respected for who they are.

[adrianodiprato]

+ "The limits of my language mean the limits of my world." ~ Ludwig Wittgenstein

My Journey with Chat GPT

In a rapidly evolving world where technology reigns supreme, my six-month-long voyage with Chat GPT has been nothing short of transformative. This experience has provided me with valuable insights into the potential of artificial intelligence, the impact of technology-rich learning environments, and the profound significance of connecting individuals through the integration of cutting-edge tools. In this blog post, I will share my journey, explore the innovative capabilities of AI, and advocate for a technology-rich approach that enhances human potential, allowing all learners to test what's possible, both individually and collaboratively.

The Power of Chat GPT

Chat GPT, powered by the state-of-the-art GPT-3.5 architecture, has fundamentally altered the way I approach my work. Its remarkable capacity to generate human-like text and provide accurate information has proven to be an invaluable asset. With Chat GPT augmenting tech solutions, digital literacies, and human potential, the margin for error has significantly diminished, instilling trust in its ability to consistently deliver reliable results. This groundbreaking AI tool has not only boosted my productivity but has also encouraged creative thinking, as it handles routine tasks efficiently, freeing me to focus on higher-order problem-solving.

Beyond Conventional Wisdom

While Chat GPT may initially seem like a conventional AI text generator, it transcends expectations by encouraging exploration of contrarian ideas. This unique feature has enriched my perspective, encouraging me to challenge the status quo and approach problems from unconventional angles. Chat GPT has become a trusted companion in my quest for innovative solutions and groundbreaking insights, fostering an environment where learners can test what's possible.

The Ecosystem Effect

The integration of AI technologies, like Chat GPT, exemplifies the ecosystem effect—a phenomenon that recognises technology's indispensable role in contemporary society. Without embracing technology, traditional educational institutions risk becoming obsolete in an era where knowledge is readily accessible. The rapid evolution of technology has rendered time fluid, making continuous learning possible from any location and at any time, enabling individuals to explore the bounds of their potential.

"The rapid evolution of technology has rendered time fluid, making continuous learning possible from any location and at any time, enabling individuals to explore the bounds of their potential."

Balancing the Scales: The Critical Perspective on AI

While my experience with Chat GPT has been overwhelmingly positive, it's essential to recognise that no technological innovation is without its challenges and criticisms. Let's take a moment to explore some of the concerns and considerations regarding artificial intelligence:

Bias and Fairness: One of the foremost concerns with AI is bias. Machine learning models like Chat GPT can inadvertently perpetuate biases present in the data they are trained on. This bias can lead to discriminatory or unfair outcomes, which is a critical issue that requires continuous vigilance and improvement.

Job Displacement: The rapid advancement of AI technology has raised questions about its impact on employment. While AI can enhance productivity, it also has the potential to displace certain jobs, particularly those that involve routine tasks. Balancing the benefits of automation with job preservation is a critical societal challenge.

Privacy and Security: AI systems often require access to vast amounts of data to function effectively. This raises concerns about data privacy and security. Striking the right balance between utilizing data for AI's benefit and safeguarding individuals' privacy rights is an ongoing challenge.

Educators on the Right Side of History

Educators have a unique opportunity to be on the right side of history. By harnessing the value of tools like Chat GPT, they can unlock powerful new learning capabilities and tap into the full spectrum of learner possibilities. This approach has the potential to prepare students to navigate a world in which artificial intelligence becomes the curve, and our inherent human skills are the vital threads of a bold ecosystem for schooling, society, and all future human endeavors.

"This approach has the potential to prepare students to navigate a world in which artificial intelligence becomes the curve, and our inherent human skills are the vital threads of a bold ecosystem for schooling, society, and all future human endeavors."

Embracing a technology-rich approach to education is no longer a matter of choice but a necessity. We are compelled to lead the way in utilising technology to cultivate a sense of belonging, unlock human potential, and promote values that are virtuous and just. Our mission is to use technology as a bridge between learner minds and the character-building facets of education, enabling learners to test what's possible in collaboration with others.

Leading for Connection and Agency

In today's society, we must lead with a vision that harnesses technology to connect individuals and amplify their agency. Chat GPT and similar AI tools empower learners to take control of their education, providing personalised learning experiences tailored to their unique needs and preferences. These tools enable educators to engage with students on a deeper level, guiding them toward realizing their full potential and pushing the boundaries of what they can achieve together.

Conclusion

My journey with Chat GPT has been undeniably transformative. This AI-powered tool has not only enriched my work but has also illuminated the vast potential of AI in education and beyond. In a society driven by technology, the time is now to embrace these innovative solutions and lead the way in fostering connection and agency. This path ensures that every individual has the opportunity to thrive and contribute positively to society.

The future belongs to those who can harness the power of AI, and Chat GPT has undeniably positioned me to be at the forefront of this exciting journey towards a more connected and empowered world. Balancing the benefits of AI with responsible development and addressing its challenges will be key to achieving this vision, where technology augments human potential and enables all learners to explore the limitless possibilities of tomorrow.

Educators have the opportunity to shape this future, unlocking the full potential of their students in a world shaped by AI and human ingenuity.

Adriano Di Prato is a best-selling author, broadcaster and the Academic Operations Manager at LCI Melbourne, a progressive art + design private higher education institute.

[thefuturewewant]

We all deserve to live in a world where women and girls are respected as full members of society and treated equally to their male counterparts in terms of their rights, opportunities for employment and education, control over their own health, and ability to contribute to society. This simply isn't the case elsewhere in the world. To enable all women and girls to live their lives to the fullest, the United Nations has included gender equality as one of its 17 Sustainable Development Goals, which it hopes to accomplish by the year 2030. When girls have access to shelter, clean water, sanitation, education and safety, and are given the freedom to do simple things in life, like play with friends, read books and travel, they become empowered to think for themselves, act for themselves, and determine their own destinies. When this happens, girls are much more likely to attend school, become skilled, get jobs, have families, buy homes, fulfil their ambitions and make a positive impact on the world around them. Gender equality should be a fundamental right, but girls and women are not treated equally in countries all around the world for all sorts of reasons. Society plays a big part in how gender roles are assigned. The values, core beliefs, and inherited customs that govern how people behave can be discriminatory and limit how women live their lives. In some countries, laws prevent women from owning property or receiving an inheritance from a family member. In many cultures, child marriages are still acceptable, with some girls as young as 8 promised to men twice, three, or four times their age. This leaves the girl open to abuse, neglect and complications during childbirth. Even in places where men and women technically have equal rights, there still may be a gender gap in pay, leadership and representation in government. Great people continue to make progress worldwide: exposing systemic abuse toward women in the film and television industries with powerful social media campaigns, investing in female entrepreneurs to reduce the current funding gap between women and men, providing women and girls with equal access to education, healthcare and decent work. And the number of women leaders has doubled since 2000, so that their say in political and economic decision-making processes can fuel sustainable economies and benefit societies and humanity at large. We can all work together to achieve gender equality and empower all women and girls worldwide by 2030.

[thxnews]

Unveiling the Timeless Masterpiece: The Canterbury Tales - A Window into Medieval Life

  The Canterbury Tales by Geoffrey Chaucer is one of the greatest literary works of the Middle Ages and is considered a masterpiece of English literature. Written in the late 14th century, this enlightening work of fiction provides readers with a unique window into life during Medieval England. This collection of 24 stories is written in verse and is set in the context of a pilgrimage to Canterbury. The stories are told by a group of travelers, who are on their way to visit the shrine of Saint Thomas Becket in Canterbury. We will now explore the historical context of The Canterbury Tales, delve into some of the most famous tales, and the impact that the work has had on literature and culture. So, come join us on this journey as we explore the Canterbury Tales.  

Canterbury tales volume set and Jeffery Chaucer. Photo by the British Library. THX News.  

Context of Medieval England

Political Context Medieval England was characterized by a feudal system where the king held supreme power and granted land to nobles in return for their loyalty and military service. The peasantry, which comprised the majority of the population, worked on the lands of the nobles in exchange for protection and a share of the produce. The political instability of the period, due to frequent wars and disputes over the throne, led to growing dissatisfaction among the common people. The Canterbury Tales reflect this political context in several ways. The tale of the Knight, who is an embodiment of chivalry and loyalty, represents the idealized image of the nobles. The Pardoner, on the other hand, who cheats people for money, is a critique of the corrupt practices of the Church and State officials.   Social Context The rigid social stratification of the Medieval period placed the aristocracy at the top and the peasantry at the bottom of the social ladder. Medieval society was patriarchal, and women had limited opportunities for education and employment. The Church played a significant role in the social structure and exerted its influence over all aspects of life, including education, law, and morality. Chaucer’s work reflects this social context in significant ways. The Miller and the Reeve, who are portrayed as buffoons, represent the lower classes, and their crude behavior contrasted with the refined and cultured qualities of the Monk and the Nun’s Priest.   Religious Context Religion played a crucial role in the medieval society of England. The Church was viewed as the moral authority and was responsible for providing spiritual guidance to the people. Religious festivals, pilgrimages, and prayer were an integral part of everyday life. Christianity was the dominant religion, and other faiths were not tolerated. The Canterbury Tales reflects this religious context through the character of the Parson, who embodies the virtues of Christianity and represents the ideal spiritual guide. At the same time, the Friar and the Pardoner, who were both connected with the Church, are depicted as greedy and corrupt individuals who exploit the faith of the people for their own benefit.  

A highlight of Decorated Gothic art the outer north porch c.1325 of St Mary Redcliffe, Bristol, England. Photo by Spencer Means. Flickr.  

Overview of The Canterbury Tales

Historical Background The Canterbury Tales was written in a time that saw a significant transformation of English literature. In the late 14th century, English replaced Latin and French as the main language of literature. It was due in part to the efforts of writers like Chaucer, who sought to make literature accessible to all, regardless of their social status and education. Chaucer’s work marked the emergence of English as a literary language, which further contributed to the English language’s development.   Themes and Style The Canterbury Tales is a complex work that incorporates various themes. The tales told by the characters bring out fundamental human endeavors, such as love, greed, and power. Chaucer’s views on social hierarchy and morality also permeate the tales. Humor and satire are other striking elements of the work, which add to its appeal. Each character’s tale is narrated in a distinct style that reinforces their characterization, making The Canterbury Tales a prime example of the art of characterization in literature.   The Structure of The Canterbury Tales The structure of The Canterbury Tales is crucial to its style and thematic content. The work comprises 24 stories in total, broken down into tales told by twenty-three pilgrims, along with two tales told by the host. The pilgrims are representative of various sections of medieval society, from the high-ranking aristocrats to the working-class characters like the plowman and the miller. This range of characters and their tales effectively portrays medieval English society.  

The Knight of The Knight's Tale. Photo by Ben Sutherland. Flickr.  

Characters

The Knight The first character that comes to mind is the Knight, who is the epitome of chivalry and honor. He is described as "a worthy man" and has fought in many battles over the course of his life. His tunic bears the emblem of St. George, suggesting that he is a devout Christian. The Knight's tale is one of adventure and romance, and it explores the themes of love and loyalty. The significance of the Knight's character lies in his representation of the ideal of chivalry, which was highly valued during the Middle Ages.   The Wife of Bath Another memorable character is the Wife of Bath, who is a self-proclaimed expert on marriage and love. She has been married five times and is not ashamed of it. In fact, she sees marriage as a means of achieving control over men. The Wife of Bath's tale is a feminist retelling of the story of King Arthur and his queen, and it explores the themes of power and gender roles. The significance of the Wife of Bath's character lies in her representation of unorthodox views on marriage and women's rights, which were radical in the Middle Ages.   The Miller The Miller is another colorful character in The Canterbury Tales. He is a rude and vulgar man, who enjoys drinking and stealing. He is described as having a "red beard" and a "wide nostril" and is always ready to pick a fight. The Miller's tale is a bawdy one, which involves a love triangle and a lot of sexual innuendo. The significance of the Miller's character lies in his representation of the lower classes, who were often overlooked in Middle English literature.   The Pardoner The Pardoner is a fascinating character, who is both repulsive and alluring. He is a religious figure who sells indulgences, which are supposed to reduce the time spent in purgatory. However, the Pardoner is a fraud, and he often makes up stories to convince people to buy his wares. He is described as having "hair as yellow as wax" and a "smooth, hairless face." The Pardoner's tale is a moral one, which explores the themes of greed and corruption. The significance of the Pardoner's character lies in his representation of the corruption within the Church.   The Summoner The final memorable character we will discuss is the Summoner, who is a repulsive and grotesque figure. He is a religious official whose job is to summon sinners to appear before the Church courts. However, he is corrupt and often accepts bribes to let people off the hook. He is described as having a "fierce red face" and a "face full of pimples." The Summoner's tale is a scathing critique of the corruption within the Church, and it explores the themes of hypocrisy and greed. The significance of the Summoner's character lies in his representation of the corruption and moral decay within the Church.  

The Two Noble Kinsmen, Palamon and Arcite. Photo by Ben P L from Provo, USA. Wikimedia.  

Themes

Social Hierarchy Social hierarchy was a prominent aspect of medieval society. As a result, Chaucer subtly incorporated it into his writing. In the story, The Knight's Tale, the character of Theseus is used to provide us with a glimpse into medieval royalty. He is portrayed as a respected and noble leader that people look up to. His social status gives him power, but also adds a weight of responsibility to his actions. The Boy's Tale is another story that presents us with the importance of social position. This tale focuses on the story of two friends, Arcite and Palamon. The two men are both in love with Emelye, but because Arcite is of nobler birth, his aspirations to marry her are more likely to be approved. The story shows how social status played a role in love and marriage during medieval times.   Morality Morality plays a central role in many of the tales in the Canterbury Tales. Chaucer is seen as a master of his craft, capable of dealing with complex moral conundrums in a way that is relatable to readers. In The Pardoner's Tale, we see how greed can drive men to do terrible things. The tale exposes the corrupt nature of humans, who are always tempted by material things. The Wife of Bath's Tale teaches us about the importance of trust and compromise in relationships. She emphasizes how important it is to listen to each other's needs and desires. The tale also portrays a woman who has control over her own life. This was a revolutionary notion during the medieval era, when society was deeply patriarchal. Religion Religion is prevalent throughout the Canterbury Tales. People during the medieval era were devout believers and religion played a central role in everyday life. In The Man of Law's Tale, we see the story of a converted Jew who converts to Christianity. The story shows how religion can change a person's life and beliefs. The Friar's Tale, on the other hand, focuses on the immoral nature of some religious figures. The friar is portrayed as a corrupt individual who uses his position in the church for personal gain. This tale teaches us about the dangers of trusting those who claim to be religious simply because of their position.  

Structure

The Canterbury Tales is a frame narrative, with the frame being the pilgrimage to Canterbury. The narrative framework of the tales is a crucial element as it sets the stage for the stories and binds them together. The pilgrims represent all sections of medieval society, from the nobility and the religious to the commoner, making it a unique representation of contemporary medieval life. The structure of the pilgrimage narrative is partly designed to encourage us as readers not merely to observantly read, but to actively participate in the journey. The stories in The Canterbury Tales have multiple levels of meaning, serving as both entertainment and social critique. The tales range from the high-minded Knight's Tale, which deals with questions of honor, courage, and justice, to the bawdy Miller's Tale, which serves as a very down-to-earth contrast. As the tales come to us, we are passive listeners who are participants in the journey, and the storytellers invite us to join the discussion. The tales also reveal a great deal about the people who are telling them, providing rich character studies. For instance, the character of the Wife of Bath is revealed in her story as she justifies her lustful tendencies.   Classic Story Telling The story-telling structure is also a characteristic feature of the book's structure. The tale-tellers are introduced in the General Prologue, which provides a brief profile of each pilgrim. As the journey continues, each pilgrim tells one tale, resulting in 24 tales. However, it is the tale-telling structure that makes this book one of the most significant literary works of all time. The structure of the tales is both entertaining and educational, capturing the essence of medieval life. The tales in The Canterbury Tales exemplify the medieval genre of fabliaux, which means "little stories" in old French. Each story is a self-contained narrative, and the tales vary in length and complexity. Some reflect the traditions of romantic courtly love, while others satirize religious and secular institutions. The tales are all very different, and their distinctive storytelling style. The tales reveal the conditions of various medieval groups and offer insights into medieval ethics, morals, and religion. The variety of stories is a reflection of the wide diversity of society, which is a crucial feature of the overall narrative.  

FLINT, William Russell 1880-1969. Chaucer's 'The Canterbury Tales', Frontispiece, 1928.. Photo by Halloween HJB. Flickr.  

Significance to Literature and History

First and foremost, The Canterbury Tales is considered significant because it is considered a seminal work in the development of English literature. It was written in Middle English, which was the language spoken in England during the 14th century. The stories reflect the cultural and social norms of the time, allowing readers to get a glimpse into medieval life. This historic context provides a unique and insightful interpretation of one of the most significant pieces of English literature. Moreover, The Canterbury Tales is also considered significant for the way it challenges societal norms and the status quo. Chaucer’s works were known for being ‘bawdy’ and controversial. The Canterbury Tales, in particular, features characters who challenge societal norms, such as the Wife of Bath, who was seen as a feminist figure. The words and actions of the various characters in the stories also reflected a range of personalities and themes, providing a more nuanced interpretation of the medieval period.   The English Religious and Socio-political Views of the Time The Canterbury Tales were also a reflection of the religious and socio-political situation of England. During the 14th century, English society was undergoing a period of transformation. England was transitioning from a feudal society to a more centralized government. The book includes a commentary on the corruption within the clergy and the institutionalized practices of the church. Chaucer uses his fictional stories to provide social commentary on the injustices of his time, and this provides a unique perspective on a tumultuous period in English history. The Canterbury Tales is a treasure trove of historical information that can be studied and dissected for years to come. The tales provide ample insight into the cultural, religious, social, and economic aspects of medieval life. The figures in the book reflect the interests, conflicts, and priorities of the medieval people, and understanding these figures provides insight into the complex lives of those who lived in these times.  

Conclusion

The Canterbury Tales is a timeless classic that has endured for centuries and continues to influence literature, art, culture, and history. It serves as an important reminder of the values of Medieval England while also providing readers with insight into human nature. Through its tales of chivalry and romance, The Canterbury Tales offers us a glimpse into the lives of characters from all walks of life during this period in time. Those who read it come away with a better understanding of how society was structured during medieval times as well as what people valued most then. Whether you are looking for historical context or just want to get lost in some captivating stories, The Canterbury Tales will not disappoint!   Sources: THX News & British Library. Read the full article

[disabilityinsuranceforphysicians]

Protecting Your Medical Career: The Importance of True Own Specialty Disability Insurance for Physicians

Over the past decade, the medical field has undergone significant transformations, leading to a decline in self-employed physicians and a rise in physicians transitioning to employment within institutionalized medicine. Unfortunately, this shift has given rise to a common misconception among physicians regarding disability insurance coverage. Many doctors are either opting out of purchasing individual own specialty disability insurance for physicians or canceling their existing coverage, mistakenly relying on their employer’s long-term disability insurance. It is crucial to understand the limitations of employer-provided disability plans and the immense importance of true own specialty policies.

True Own Disability Insurance for Physicians vs. Employer Provided Group Disability

Although employer-provided disability plans may seem appealing due to their seemingly cost-free nature, they pale in comparison to the comprehensive coverage provided by own specialty policies. Typically, employer plans only cover the base salary, often capped around $10,000 per month, and the benefits received are subject to regular income tax when the premiums are paid by the employer. Moreover, these plans define total disability as the inability to work in the medical specialty with no alternative sources of income. Should a physician choose to work in a different occupation, they would no longer be considered totally disabled.

Most employer plans also incorporate a 24-month clause, which allows them to evaluate the physician’s skills after two years of benefit payment. If the insurance company deems the physician capable of performing another reasonable occupation, they will cease benefit payments. Additionally, many employer plans do not cover work-related injuries or illnesses, and they lack portability if the physician decides to switch employers. Furthermore, partial disability benefits are usually only granted after a consecutive period of at least 90 days of total disability, making it unrealistic to claim benefits for partial disabilities.

The Benefits of Own Specialty Disability Insurance

It cannot be stressed enough how critical it is for physicians to protect their income potential in the medical specialty they have worked so diligently to achieve. This protection can only be guaranteed by purchasing individual own specialty coverage offered by the six insurance carriers: Ameritas, Guardian, MassMutual, Mutual of Omaha, Principal, and The Standard. It is vital to note that organizations such as the AMA, ACOG, ACP, ACS, and Northwestern Mutual do not offer true own specialty disability insurance. Their plans fall short as they only pay physicians their full disability benefit if they have no other sources of income during a disability.

While there is a cost associated with owning own occupation disability insurance, the benefits are truly invaluable. Annual premiums typically range from 2% to 6% of your annual gross income, depending on the age at which the policy is purchased. However, if you cherish the effort you have invested in becoming a physician and depend on your income, going without True Own Occupation disability insurance is simply not an option. Relying solely on employer plans for protection is a risky decision. By investing in an individual own specialty policy, physicians can effectively safeguard their income potential and ensure unwavering financial stability in the face of unforeseen circumstances.

At InsuranceMD, thousands of physicians across the country place their trust in us to ensure they obtain True Own Occupation/Specialty disability insurance. What sets us apart is that we do all the shopping for you. We assess your needs and eligibility for coverage, while taking the time to educate you. We diligently compare the offerings of the six carriers, to find the most comprehensive policy at the best cost when providing disability insurance quotes. We employ state-of-the-art secure technology to ensure your information remains safe. Whether you choose to work with us or have your own trusted advisor, it is of utmost importance that you purchase disability insurance from one of the six own specialty carriers, ensuring you obtain their best definition of total disability in an own occupation context.

If you are unsure about what this means or how to determine if you are getting the best own occupation coverage available, please feel free to reach out to me at nick@insurancemd.com . I am more than happy to assist you in any way I can.

[devanaggarwal]

How You Can Help the Homeless

Helping the homeless can make a real and often immediate difference in the lives of those affected by poverty. It is vital to help people get out of poverty by establishing more permanent solutions like education, training opportunities, and job placement programs.

One thing people can do to help homeless people is to treat them with kindness and respect. Despite their plight, homeless individuals deserve dignity and compassion.

Whether donating money or goods to local charities or organizations, your donations can make a big difference in the lives of those who need it most. Look for groups in your area that help homeless people, like food banks, homeless shelters, and housing programs. These organizations often rely on donations to assist their clients.

Consider creating gift packages with items from your local market, like toothbrushes, bottled water, nonperishable food like canned soup or tuna packets, and clothes. This is an easy way to ensure the homeless have what they need when they cannot receive support. If this isn't possible due to time limitations or other factors, consider exchanging goods with friends or family members instead. Ask them if they have any extra supplies that could go into care packages for the less fortunate folks in our communities.

Many organizations need volunteers to assist with various tasks, such as preparing meals for homeless individuals and families, organizing fundraisers, and providing transportation services for those who need them. Volunteering your time is a great way to gain insight into how these organizations operate and how they help those in need.

Fundraising campaigns are one of the most effective ways to support the homeless. Whether you start one yourself or assemble a small team of volunteers, any money you raise can make a difference in someone's life. Consider organizing bake sales or other events such as car washes or craft days at schools, churches, or local businesses.

You can create an online donation page and spread awareness through social media campaigns. You can also spread awareness about homelessness by organizing events where you share information about organizations working with the homeless and strategies they employ to tackle root causes leading up to homelessness, such as poverty and mental health issues.

Reach out to your local representatives and let them know what changes you would like to see implemented at the state or federal level that could benefit those experiencing homelessness in your community. By advocating for change at the legislative level, you can ensure that more resources are available for those who need them most.

Finally, consider hiring those who are homeless when possible. This could be anything from providing employment opportunities at your business to something as simple as hiring someone for freelance work or offering odd jobs here and there for some extra money. Providing meaningful employment will not only give them more stability but offer dignity and respect that goes beyond just providing resources like shelter and food.

Any contributions, no matter how big or small, are important in the fight against homelessness. Donating money or commodities to charity, working at local shelters, or pushing for legislative reform will help homeless people. Everyone has the power to make their community a better place, so go out and start making a difference today.

[hoodoh]

Childcare VS Employment

While trying to provide for their children, single mothers also possibly have to deal with the stress of searching for employment opportunities. Childcare is very important while trying to seek employment. In some instances, women might not have access to childcare which makes it difficult for them to have jobs and provide. In Margaret et al. (1996) it states, “this reality creates a vicious cycle for low-income and poorly educated women; securing a low-wage job with limited benefits and child care and transportation difficulties typically leads a woman quickly back to welfare, a trend that accounts for numerous exits from, and returns to, welfare among this population” (p.524).  Limited resources for childcare makes it harder for the mother to seek interviews or obtain a job with regular work hours. There could also be barriers to educational and training opportunities that could lead to better employment options. Obtaining stable employment is difficult under these circumstances where it could be a pathway towards homelessness for mothers. From a public health perspective, income and social support networks are very important in these circumstances. The Homeless Hub (n.d) stated, “low-income families are not only more vulnerable to poor health than those earning a living wage, they use more healthcare resources because illness can make it harder to get out of poverty.” Without access to employment due to lack of child care, these families remain low-income which leads to health risks. Moreover, social support networks from family or friends could help mothers while they seek employment. Overall addressing this issue can prevent the risk of homelessness. 

References:

Brooks, M. G., & Buckner, J. C. (1996). WORK AND WELFARE: Job Histories, Barriers to Employment, and Predictors of Work Among Low-Income Single Mothers. American Journal of Orthopsychiatry, 66(4), 526–537.

Homeless Hub. (n.d). Poverty. https://www.homelesshub.ca/about-homelessness/education-training-employment/poverty