#there are other things that help first time home buyers that might work for those options too

[notanrp-wow]

Been talking with Mom about housing options when my lease is up. Might be looking into a tiny house or a modular house. I should be able to afford those with a pretty small bank loan.

[ponds-of-ink]

Wish Rewritten by Someone Who’s Never Actually Seen The Film (“Act” 1)

(But did do a bit of research so I got a better idea of how this could go)

Lengthy title aside, this is a concept I’m excited to work with. I might need to retool this “rough draft” later, but here’s what I’ve got so far.

-

Act 1 - “Introducing The Girl”

We open up with a book being set on some desk. The person setting the book down tells us about a legend that has recently been uncovered: “The Girl and The Living Star”.

Said person is our ‘opening narrator’ of sorts, giving us a fictional background of this discovery as some of the credits are displayed on the book’s first pages. The story that we’re about to see, as (s)he explains, has been adapted by these people for your enjoyment.

Soon, the camera fades into the first real page: A painted castle backlit by a sunrise. The camera moves closer to said castle, while also moving towards ground level. A regal voice booms out, being the first thing we hear from this faraway land.

That voice belongs to King Magnifico, who stands on the highest point of the castle courtyard. He welcomes the large crowd of people, practically congratulating them for attending Rosas’ annual Wish Ceremony.

(Side note: to be clear, said congratulations is not one out of geniune thrill and joy. It’s just out of duty and potential condescension… From the King, that is. His wife is a bit more thrilled, as we’ll see later.)

Regardless of his tone, travelers and citizens alike are thrilled to be here— And with good reason. Today is the day longheld wishes are to be granted.

Many a stranger eagerly rushes to Magnifico and his conjured, ball-like manifestations of wishes. However, only a few receive the spheres themselves before those too vanish— The only lingering sign being a literal glow of hope in the receiver’s eyes.

As more and more continue to try their hand, a few stay behind. Some linger because they are physically unable, others because are simply too nervous, and one girl in particular who has neither of these issues: Asha.

Asha attempts to aid those who are stuck with her. She becomes a crutch for the limping and a practical adviser for the uneasy…

But then she slips away after helping the last person. Turns out she doesn’t even have a wish to grant. She just wanted to see what the ceremony was like, since she’ll be training for it once she becomes a sorcerer-in-training.

King Magnifico does notice, but quickly brushes it off. He finishes the last few wishes, wraps up the ceremony, then joins his wife inside.

However, we don’t follow them just yet. Instead, we rejoin Asha in the main village. She goes about her day while everyone else is—to varying degrees—celebrating Wish Day. Musicians sing with some of their fellow townsfolk, the craftsmen are building their most extravagant works, and even the market sellers are greeting buyers with a genuine smile.

And, though Asha does like the morale, she is uninterested in joining the village’s big number. To her, the only thing that matters is getting through the day… As well as something that may make or break it.

A few hours later, Asha returns to the castle with items in tow. Scrolls, a satchel of trinkets, and a ribbon-laced necklace for good luck.

King Magnifico greets her at the front steps, though his tone remains as regal and stoic as ever. Queen Amaya, on the other hand, is estatic. She eagerly welcomes the puzzled girl inside, offering her all sorts of things to make her feel at home. Asha, always erring on the side of caution, refuses her offers.

The royal couple leads her to the Sorcerer’s Tower, then Amaya takes her leave. Magnifico and Asha, now alone, begin the Sorcerer’s Exam.

Asha does fairly well, though it’s clear something is holding her back. Magnifico notices, but says nothing until her exam is complete. Asha explains that it’s herself that’s holding her back (because of course it is), then proceeds to pack her things.

“These things can be remedied in time,” Magnifico retorts. “I have decided that you are my apprentice, and my word is final.”

Asha is dumbfounded, then absolutely delighted. Her? His apprentice? In this very tower?? This is the best news she’s ever gotten!

Under the condition of returning by midnight. Asha runs back home. She tells the news to her family, packs her belongings, and says goodbye to the family pet Valentino (even though he can’t talk).

Though the reality of leaving home makes her emotional, she tries to brush it off the best she can. “At least I’ll be away from all the hustle and bustle down below,” she reasons with herself as she sets out that night. “No more talking about dreams that can’t come true. No more singing about made-up things on Wish Day. Just me, my books, and the wise words of King Magnifico to help me.”

She then encounters the King and Queen talking and laughing in some distant room. Far too tired to investigate, she ascends the Sorcerer’s Tower and calls it a night.

The next month or so—represented by a few short scenes—is busy for Asha. She adjusts to the castle, both in and out of lessons. Her sleep schedule is switched from dusk ‘til dawn to dawn ‘til dusk. She has to endure the court jesters and their mischievous antics. And, arguably worst of all, King Magnifico has her do extra chores to prove that she’s learned certain spells. Needless to say, Asha is tired. And done.

It doesn’t help that King Magnifico himself is being ominous while Queen Amaya is being overbearingly chatty and friendly.

One night in particular, Asha stumbles across the royal couple dancing and singing in the ballroom as if their personalities weren’t at odds half the time. This sets off a chain of thoughts in her mind as she ascends the tower. What if it’s all a trap? What if their only goal was to get another cleaning servant? What if she had failed the exam after all, but the king had pitied her for a moment?

Out of options, she pulls out the ribbon-laced necklace and puts it on her neck. She looks to the night sky, shuts her eyes, and mutters two words: “I wish…”

…But the rest of the wish she keeps to herself.

With this act of desperation done, she prepares for the long night ahead. We the audience are left in the dark as the screen fades to black.

End of Act 1

—-

Bonus Notes

I imagine this act a bit like a few moments of The Polar Express. This Asha is left out of the Disney-tied stuff that the other villagers seem to already have— Which is especially true in Act 1’s musical numbers (even though they’re diegetic). She just refuses to sing or participate in them.

And, by consequence, we the audience are left to think of this as semi-background music until the soundtrack gives the other perspective.

This does also mean the tone, though still Disney, is a bit more… Grimms-like? Somber and harsh on Asha’s end? Like, yes, she still has her moments of relief— Especially with her family and Queen Amaya (weirdly on her end). This doesn’t mean that the overwhelming sense of “I do not trust anything, not even my own self” is going away anytime soon. (More on that in Act 2, don’t worry)

Though, now that I’m writing these notes, I did mention in an earlier post that I imagine her to be more like Meg from Hercules. If I failed to convey that in the above synopsis.. O o p s. Hopefully, a ‘second draft’ down the line might fix that error.

Meanwhile, King Magnifico and Queen Amalya.. umm.. Let’s just say that they’re not only a loving couple, but they’re also supposed to represent different eras of something. (I want to spoil this so badly, but I gotta wait until Act 2)

And, for those wondering about Valentino, don’t worry. He’ll be back soon. :]

[luthwhore]

i am buying a house, and (maybe) you can too!

so... you want to buy a house, but you don't make a lot of money and you have no way to save up the recommended 10% recommended downpayment on a mortgage, which means you're basically going to be stuck renting forever, right?

well... actually, maybe not!

this post is going to be very US-centric, so i cannot speak to the homebuying experience in other countries, but if you live in the united states... you might be able to buy a house for much less up front than you might think!

this is gonna get long, but the main things you'll need are:

a credit score in the low- to mid-600s. this can vary by program, but most down payment assistance programs require somewhere between a 620 and 660. (i might make a second post at some point about credit scores bc fixing my credit score was a long and arduous process.)

enough in savings to cover a few up-front expenses. there are a couple of things that the down payment assistance programs won't cover. for me, we ended up having to pay ~$1500 up front total, which - to put it in perspective - is less than the deposit and move-in fees were going to be at most apartments in our area.

that's basically it! if you can do those two things, you might be able to buy a house!

let's talk about the details.

programs vary by state, but most states have down payment assistance programs of one kind or another. there's also a federal USDA loan program which is $0 down as well, but is only available in rural areas.

these programs WILL usually require you to have a certain credit score, usually somewhere in the 600s. (the particular program my housemates and i are using requires a minimum 640, but some require a higher or lower credit score than that.)

usually your first step is speak to a mortgage lender. the mortgage lender i'm working with is only available in the state of tennessee and not all mortgage companies accept all down payment assistance options, so i would research options in your state and then check to see if the programs have a list of preferred lenders and/or loan officers.

this sounds scary, but my loan officer has been a life-saver during this process. generally your loan officer wants to help you succeed, particularly when they know you're a first time home owner. tell your loan officer that you're going to be a first time home owner and you're interested in a $0 down payment program. they can run the numbers and see if you qualify, and if so, how much you can qualify for.

you can have multiple people on the mortgage with you, but everyone on the mortgage has to meet the credit score requirement.

if you do qualify, also talk to your loan officer about how much you can pay per month for a mortgage, too, since this might also impact what price range you're shopping in.

you'll also want a real estate agent. (trust me on this. you want a real estate agent.) my loan officer recommended a real estate agent to me and we quite literally could not have done this without him. your real estate agent does a lot more than just help you find houses to look at. they will also point out things that you might not know to look for and will also help negotiate with the seller for you.

when you talk to your real estate agent, tell them you are using a down payment assistance program and that you will need the seller to cover your closing costs. closing costs, for reference, are a bunch of small expenses that are paid when you officially sign the mortgage. typically both the buyer and the seller have separate closing costs, but it's fairly normal for buyers to ask the seller to pay for their closing costs for them in the current market. your real estate agent can then negotiate for this for you.

if the seller covers your closing costs and you can get approved for down payment assistance, there are only three things you will probably have to pay for out of pocket:

"earnest money." this is a small sum of money you pay to hold the house after the seller accepts your bid. (in our case, we paid $500 for our earnest money.)

the home inspection. our home inspection was also about $500, though the price of this could vary based on where you live.

the home appraisal. for us this was also about $500, though again, this could vary based on where you live.

and that's basically it! obviously talk with your loan officer and real estate agent about the cost of these things bc they might not be the same cost for you as they were for me, but for us, this ended up actually being cheaper than moving into a new apartment!

[thetruearchmagos]

The Aircraft Carriers Of The UC Civil Defence Service

Hey folks! Felt bad about not releasing any Worldbuilding content recently, wanted to do something nice to get me back into the rhythm of things. Enjoy!

Tagging @lividdreamz @athenswrites @theprissythumbelina @thatndginger @the-stray-storyteller @hessdalen-globe @caxycreations @writeblrsupport

The Warp's Rescuers

For as long as the great Warp between the 12 Worlds has been plied - and that is a longer time than modern history knows - those who have sailed its depthless and endless expenses have faced death, destruction, and simple and utter disappearence as a simple risk of the mariners trade. Even the safety of the Contours is not a complete one, and it can never truly be known just how many ships have gone down with their crews in the ages past.

In the modern day, though, the business of inter-World communication and movement is a much safer one for all involved. Developments in the ships and crews themselves have certainly helped, but the creation of a truly - for the most part - international and wide reaching institution of at-sea search and rescue has saved the lives of thousands of mariners at sea. The United Commonwealth, acting primarily though its Navy and Civil Defence Service, has committed itself to this transnational endeavour with all its usual vigour, and in all its might and wealth hs provided for one capability no other state could dream of; the Rescue Carroer.

What Do You Do With A Fleet Of Spare Ships

The first trans-Warp 'Rescue Carriers' were a relatively recent development, borne out of the helpful confluenbce of two seperate events. Going into the 140s A.S., the Navy had found itself with the unprecedented luxury of having more carrier hulls than it either wanted or needed. Caught in the middle of a mass rearmament initiative on a scale not seen since the Chainbreaker War, and which would similarly find its conclusion in the 1st Great War, the Service had been inclined to retire in large numbers its previous class of 'Fleet' carrier, the Union's, in order to make room on the yards, docks, and crew and squadron rosters for the newer Valorous-class to take over. Many of the newer Union's would remain in naval service as true carriers or converted for work as amphibious vessels, but a sizeable portion of the fleet was "too old to service aircraft that weren't obsolete, too new to scrap without pissing off Parliament, too useful to consider selling to our allies, and present in too large numbers to convert". That would have left the Directorate of the Navy with quite the challenge, if an alternative and interested buyer had not made itself known.

UC-CDS Goes Inter-Global

As part of a more general bonanza towards the expansion of UC foreign policy and influence abroad, a number of schemes had been trickling in that saw the domestically minded Civil Defence Service see its purview expand well beyond Commonwealth soil. The Police Service had been in the business of overseas deployments for a century by then - and in existence for about that much longer than the CDS - but it would pose a massive challenge to the already behemoth institution to grow its reach so far. At home, CDS covered everything from the ambulance service to firefighting, and had indeed already provided assistance in a limited capacity to disaster relief operations beyond Commonwealth border. This new initiative, however, would see a far greater expansion of the CDS's resources and mandate than that, from providing full scale vaccination, medical, and firefighting services to foreign nations which lacked those services, to participating in the training of foreign recruits on UC-pattern exported equipment for their own use. It was quite a tall order, but bar one it would have been manageable.

Treaties

That 'one' was Article XXI of the Conference on Maritime Conduct. A triumph of UC statecraft, among a bevy of other treaties, Article XXI forced an absolute commitment by all signatory states to do all in their power to save a stricken vessel and its crew of any nationality or background in time of need. To meet this commitment, the rest of the government decided to dump the job onto the backs of the CDS, which had a long-running obligation to do the same for vessels nearer to UC waters as a coast guard. This would be different, however, as the treaty and the UC's chosen interpretation of its requirements meant that the CDS would need to provide coverage as much as possible to the waters of foreign states where it had never before operated as well as almost the entirety of the open oceans, and most daunting of all, the the vast and unknowable expanses of the Warp, so large that only the UC Navy itself could come close to being able to claim the ability to project assets and activity across it.

Clearly, CDS would need their help.

Old Ships Learn new Tricks

At sea SAR operations were an intensive, expensive process, and to cover the vast stretches of both the oceans pf the 12 Worlds and the surface of the Warp it was believed that only aircraft would suffice. Able to patrol vast stretches of open waves from high up and move quickly to respond to ships in need, CDS had already retained a sizeable ground-based aviation fleet larger than some state's air forces before its new mission had been shoved onto its lap. While a slight expansion of that terrestrial force could suffice to aid in near-shore overseas missions to provide maritime SAR, in the open ocean and the Warp sea based aviation would be required. Aeroships flying off the decks of CDS cutters were useful, but mostly lacked the range, endurance, or speed needed, though their ability to stay stationary while airborne at low altitudes meant they could be useful. For the issue of long-range patrolling, however, they would have to approach the masters of finding small things in a big sea with aircraft.

Smelling a potential publicity bonanza for the Service, in addition to all the actual strategic benefits behind a partnership when it came to the foreign policy of the UC, the Directorate of the Navy and Directorate-Generale of Defence quickly agreed to the proposal put forwards by the CDS. Two middle-aged Unions were first selected, the former UCS Dynamic and Dauntless who'd already had a fair decade under each of their belts. These would serve as initial training and experimentation ships, meant to allow the CDS to get some experience in the field of non-combat related carrier operations. A suite of demilitarised, and quite obsolete, aircraft was also provided to see which of them would make good patrol birds or which might fill some other useful role, such as aerial tankers or controllers. These initial tests would conclude in 145 A.S., and quite satisfactorily for all involved. It was eventually decided that a total of twenty Unions would be provided, with modification costs to be shouldered by a special Parliamentary allowance, with the ships themselves to be based in adapted civilian ports and serviced in civilian yards to take pressure off the needs of the Fleet. The first ship of this new breed, UCS Umbrage, would conclude these works in early 147, and the last, UCS Marvel, at the turn of the decade.

In addition to the ships themselves, entire new wings of the Civil Defence Academy would be created for the purposes of training the new skills these operations called for, and the Navy itself would have to impart skills and doctrines created over generations and adapted to the CDS's needs to the organisation on a wide scale. From the deadly dance of open-ocean underway refueling to the near-mystical intricacies of Warp navigation, it is a testament to their cooperation and professionalism of both organisations that in the first three years of CDS carrier operations, only fifteen major accidents occured a backdrop of near continuous and frenetic activity, none of them fatal for CDS personnel or those they were rescuing.

Good Service

The fruits of this investment, as great as it was, would quickly make themselves known. Four ships operating on the Warp's 'Layer 5' in 148 A.S., the industry preferred and officially mandated Layer for merchant commerce, would conduct an average of sixteen major missions every month each. Ranging from collisions to the wrath of an errent Warp Storm, such incidents in the past had proven easily fatal, but thanks to the timely arrival of rescue professionals guided by the flying eyes of the CDS's new carrier pilots these sailors more often than not made it out alive. Over a hundred sailors would be rescued directly by aircraft and aeroships flying from the three carriers' decks by years end, and the over two thousand saved across the Warp by the CDS and third-party ships providing assistance owed much of their survival to the crucial air provided by CDS patrol aircraft even if the carriers were not directly taking part.

Diplomatically, the knowledge that thousands of families across the 12 Worlds owed their loved-ones lives to the efforts of the United Commonwealth was quite the boon, and more broadly symbolised the UC's commitment to 'good-faith acting on the international stage' in a manner no other polity could match. The public credibility of the UC more broadly in the period was mostly on the uptick across the decade, with the exception of a few crises, and such visible policies as this were key in maintaining that credibility on the world stage.

In conclusion, it was with good reason that Foreign Commissioner Konrad Krantz, the United Commonwealth's senior diplomat across almost forty years, the architect of almost the entirety of the UC's modern insitution of statecraft, and the victor of three Great Wars, would refer to this particular piece of almost spontaneous policy as "one of the best things the Commonwealth had ever done for itself, and the rest of the 12 Worlds too I'd imagine."

[tjpunkchef]

Oh my...

I honestly do not know what compelled me. I don't know why it happened today. I just know that it did.

I am alone for the holiday. My family is away and I have stayed behind. I was feeling under the weather but I also just needed a bit of alone time. I've spent the past few days in a NyQuil coma and have watched a few movies.

I awoke this morning feeling better. After taking a shower, I remembered that I have wanted to revisit something I haven't done in a few decades. I went to the drawer and pulled out an older pair of womens underwear.

Over the past few years, I have been dealing with questions of gender. I know I'm queer. I know I'm pansexual. I have come to terms that I am non-binary, but haven't taken too many steps to explore that more. I wear a pronoun pin at work (He/They) but don't really discuss it with anyone. I have also realized that I would like to have a vagina where my scrotum is. I've researched this and daydreamed about having the surgery. I'm not sure that I will, but I do think about it a lot. In a way, I have truly felt more like a transmasc man than a non-binary person. I don't know why, but it has been the best way for me to describe to myself how I feel. I don't know what that means and haven't been in therapy long enough to breach my questions of gender.

What I haven't thought about were the times that I have worn womens underwear. It has only been a few times over the span of my almost 50 years. The first time I was a child. My sister and I were in our bedroom and I asked her to trade underwear with me. She wouldn't so I went into her dresser when she fell asleep, pulled out a pair, and went to the bathroom to try them on. They were light blue, cotton, and had some sort of design on them. I wasn't worried about any of that. I just had to know how they felt on me. I can vividly remember pulling them up my legs and feeling them rest snugly against my buttocks and front side. I remember how wonderful they felt compared to the white boys briefs I was accustomed to wearing. I then remember my mother busting into the bathroom after my sister had woken her up to tell her what I was doing. I was made to feel ashamed of what I was doing. I was told that boys don't do those sorts of things. I was told to never do this again.

Approximately 15 years later, I did do it again. At the time I was dating and living with an older man. He was 20 years my senior and I myself had only 20 years under my belt. I don't know what came over me that morning. He was at work, I had the day off. I hopped into my car and went to the closest discount store. Nervously, I stepped into the womens department and quickly walked to the rows of panties; some neatly folded, others hanging on a large display wall. I didn't know what size I might need, so I found a nondescript black pair with no frilly stuff that looked my size and added them to my cart. This was a time before self checkout lanes, so I found some other items to put in the cart to hopefully distract the cashier from noticing that one of these things were not like the buyer, but I probably gave everything away with the sweat pouring from my brow and the nervous small talk that I tried to engage them in. Nevertheless, I made it out of the store and headed back to our home. Once I arrived, I bolted into the house, undressed, and pulled the fabric up my legs and over my buttocks and genitals. I had only known of what tucking might be from watching Silence of the Lambs, so I awkwardly pushed my genitals back between my legs and stood looking at myself in the mirror. I remember feeling good, but full of shame. I remember being transported back to that bathroom as a kid and hearing my mother scold me. The same mother that asked me to keep my voice down when I was asking for her help after a former boyfriend had assaulted me. I removed the panties from my body, and put them in a bag of miscellaneous items to hide until discarding them a year later when I met a woman that I would end up marrying at the age of 21.

Almost 30 years later, married for a second time, with kids, a job, a mortgage, the desire to try on a pair of underwear that wasn't gendered toward men came to me again. It's been in the back of my head for months, but in a passing way, not something that if felt I HAD to do. As I was drying off from my shower, the thought popped into my head again and I allowed myself to be open to it. I walked over to the dresser and found a pair of black panties. I did not think they would fit, but decided to go ahead. I pulled them up my legs, feeling the fabric grab at hair along the way. When I reached my midsection with the garment, I stopped, did a proper tuck, and pulled them up to secure everything in place. They felt nice. It wasn't an Earth shattering moment, but I didn't feel any shame. I felt normal.

It was at this moment that I saw a bra in the drawer. I have never tried on a bra. I have never had the desire. I'm not sure why I reached for it and slipped it over my chest, but I did. It did not look weird, it did not look out of place, it did not look bad. It felt good. I rubbed the fabric over my chest, i felt it move back and forth over my useless nipples. It felt good.

What followed was more than an hour of me trying on womens clothes from our closet. I have never had a desire to wear womens clothes. I loved how I felt in these garments. I had moments of audible gasping as I looked at myself in the mirror. I had feelings that I can only describe as euphoric. I kept saying "oh, my" , in shock of how I looked and felt, the rush of feeling new, and pretty....I felt, pretty. I've never wanted to feel pretty, but I felt pretty today in skirts and blouses and dresses, and I really liked it.

I was turned on wearing the clothes, but it was in a way that I haven't felt before. I wasn't purely sexual, although I did have an erection for a while and kept pulling the dresses and skirts up to show my imaginary masculine suitor the panties underneath. I wanted them to see how cute my flat pubic area was and how cute my belly looked in the full coverage panties that I was wearing. I felt desirable.

After I tried on everything that I could, I looked in the mirror and asked myself out loud "am I trans?". I asked myself over and over again, but the answer did not come. "Am I just a crossdresser?" followed. I didn't have the answer to this either.

I have to wonder if this was always there and I just never allowed myself to even think of donning a female gendered wardrobe. I have to wonder if not understanding what transgender is has stunted my looking into whether I could be myself. I am still unpacking all of this. I am also researching sizing and planning to go to a thrift store tomorrow. I don't know if I will purchase anything, but I want to. I also want to talk to my wife. She asked me if I was trans once before. I answered no, but told her that I have always wanted a vagina. I had never told anyone else that before (still haven't).

If anyone out there has gone through the same emotions, scenarios, etc. and has some advice or guidance, I would love to hear from you. I will have an interesting appointment with my therapist this week.

[nsrealestate]

Planning To Sell Your House in 2025? Start Prepping Now

If your goal is to sell your house in 2025, now’s the time to start prepping. Even though it might seem like there’s plenty of time between now and the new year, you should get a head start on any updates or repairs you want to make now. As Danielle Hale, Chief Economist at Realtor.com, says:

“ . . . now is the time to start thinking about what you need for your next home and then taking those steps to prepare to list . . . We have survey data that says 47 percent of sellers are taking longer than a month to get their home ready to sell, so getting them to start that process early can mean more flexibility.”

By starting your prep work early, you’ll give yourself plenty of time to get your house market-ready by the end of the year. But be sure to partner with a great agent before you get started, so you have expert insight into what repairs are worth it based on your local market.

Why Starting Early Is Key

To get the best price and sell quickly, it’s important that your home looks its best. And that means it’s up to you to make the necessary repairs, declutter, and even consider updates that could add value as part of getting your house ready to list.

By starting now, you can tackle things one task at a time. Whether it’s fixing that leaky faucet, refreshing your landscaping, or painting a room, getting an early start gives you the flexibility to do the job right and with as little stress as possible. Because, if you wait to knock items off your list later on, they could quickly stack up and get overwhelming. As Realtor.com explains:

“There are some important repairs to make before selling a house, so don’t be in too much of a hurry to get your home listed … if you move too fast, buyers see right through the fact that you skipped important home renovations. And this . . . might end up costing you time and money.”

What Should You Focus On?

Feeling motivated to start chipping away at that to-do list, but not sure where to start? Here’s a look at the most common improvements other sellers are making today (see graph below):

The Importance of Working with a Local Agent

And while that data gives you a starting point, it shouldn’t be seen as a comprehensive list. What buyers want in your area may be different, and only a local agent will have this in-depth understanding.

For example, if homes in your area are selling quickly with updated kitchens, your agent might suggest focusing on minor kitchen improvements rather than spending money on other areas that won’t offer as much return. They’ll also help you figure out if tackling larger projects, such as replacing your roof or upgrading your HVAC system, is worth it based on other recently sold homes. As Point says:

“Not all renovations are created equal, and focusing on upgrades that offer the highest potential for increasing your home's value is key.”

And remember, it’s not just big-ticket items that can have an impact. Your agent will also speak to some of the smaller details – like cleaning up your yard, adding fresh mulch, or painting your front door – to make a real difference in how buyers feel about your home. This type of expert eye is crucial to help your house sell fast and for top dollar.

Bottom Line

Thinking of selling your house next year? Don’t wait until the last minute to get it ready. By getting a head start now, you can ensure everything is in place by the time the new year rolls around.

Need advice on what to tackle first? Let’s connect. 

[loanslte]

How Mortgage Brokers Help First-Time Homebuyers In Melbourne?

Did you know that in Melbourne, the median house price reached $909,000 in December 2023?

This huge figure often leaves first-time homebuyers feeling dazzled and uncertain about their prospects of entering the property market.

However, there's a valuable resource that can turn this tough journey into a manageable and even exciting process: mortgage brokers in Melbourne.

The Role Of Mortgage Brokers In The Home Buying Process

Melbourne mortgage brokers act as intermediaries between homebuyers and lenders, offering a range of services that can significantly simplify the home-buying process. Their expertise is particularly beneficial for first-time buyers who may find the mortgage landscape confusing and intimidating.

Key Services Provided By Mortgage Brokers

Service

Description

Loan Comparison: Access to a wide range of lenders and loan products

Needs Assessment: Evaluation of financial situation and home-buying goals

Application Assistance: Help with the paperwork and submission process

Negotiation: Liaising with lenders to secure better terms

Ongoing Support: Guidance throughout the entire home buying journey

How Mortgage Brokers Benefit First-Time Homebuyers?

First-time homebuyers benefit significantly from the services of a mortgage broker. 

Here are a few of the most important benefits:

1 Access To A Wider Range Of Loan Options

One of the great benefits of working with the best mortgage broker Melbourne offers is their access to a wider range of loan options. Such a network also includes major banks, credit unions, and even specialist lenders that a first-time buyer would never know or be able to access independently.

2 Correct Advice 

A mortgage broker in Melbourne will consider your financial life, such as your income, credit score, and other personal details. They will then present professional advice on how much one can borrow and what kind of loan can be ideal for that particular individual.

3 Simplifying Complex Terminology 

Jargon abounds in the mortgage industry. Mortgage brokers really help cut through the jargon and bestow clarity upon first-time buyers of what they actually do have as options and what they are committing to.

4 Guidance Through the Application Process 

Loans application process can be very complicated with many forms, paperwork, and legal requirements to be fulfilled. Mortgage brokers simplify it by guiding you through each step and making sure you provide all the necessary documentation, speeding up this process for your loan to be approved.

5 Time and Stress Savings 

Loan research, rate comparisons, and dealing with lenders is a chore in tedium and stress. Mortgage brokers can take care of all these things so that a first-time buyer need not bother with all this tedium of searching for a dream home.

6 Improved Chances of Loan Approval

Because of their in-depth knowledge of lender requirements, mortgage brokers can guide first time buyers to those lenders who are more than likely to approve their loan application so the shock of rejection is not felt.

How Mortgage Brokers Save Time And Money?

For first time homebuyers, time as well as money saved are the most important things for them. Here's how mortgage brokers can help you save time as well as money. They will offer you:

Comparative Loan Options: A broker reduces the time you would spend otherwise researching various options compared with the available lenders as well as loans in one go.

Mortgage brokers have experience with the lending process and consequently avoid simple mistakes such as submitting incomplete applications or misunderstanding the terms on a loan.

Better Deals: Most of them offer special rates or deals from lenders that might not be within public reach. Discounts from loans can cut down dramatically on the overall cost of your loan.

Handling Government Grants And Schemes

For first-time buyers in Melbourne, governments operate schemes, for example, First Home Owner Grant and stamp duty concessions. However, the eligibility for accessing these grants and how to apply for them may be a bit tricky. Mortgage brokers know of all these grants and will walk you through this process so that you financially benefit in the best possible way.

Require Expert Assistance To Start Your Home Buying Journey?

I'm looking for a mortgage broker who can give you the best deal on your home loan. You don't need to worry, for there are many mortgage brokers available that can advise you on getting the right loan according to your needs. 

They have easy access to other lenders and expert knowledge at every step of the way, so you are sure to make an informed decision that best suits you. Contact LTE Loans today and arrange a consultation to get started on securing your dream home with ease and speed.

References And further reading

Avoid First-Time Home Buying Mistakes: Mortgage Broker Tips and Tricks

The Role of a Mortgage Broker: What You Need to Know:

Complete Guide for Home Loan from Mortgage Broker

Why Use A Mortgage Broker Instead Of A Bank? 

Reduce Your Mortgage Burden: Smart Refinance Home Loan Mortgage Broker Melbourne

[thelistingteammiami]

Secrets To Selling Your House Quickly

Secrets To Selling Your House Quickly

Seeing your house sit on the market without any bites is the ultimate frustration. And unfortunately, some sellers are in that tricky spot today.

According to data from the National Association of Realtors (NAR), the average time a house spends on the market has increased over the past few years (see graph below):

A recent post from Realtor.com notes a similar trend:

“During the week ending Sept. 14, homes stayed on the market eight days longer compared to last year. With more choices available and mortgage rates expected to fall, buyers are taking their time, which means sellers will need to be patient and flexible.”

Some of that is because inventory has gone up, so buyers have more options. And higher mortgage rates have definitely slowed demand over the past two years, and that’s out of your control. But here’s the secret. There’s something you can control – it's also where those other sellers missed the mark. They didn’t work with the right agent.

Make no mistake, with the right strategy and agent partner, your house can still sell quickly, even today.

If time matters to you, you need to partner with an agent who understands this shifting market. That agent will be your go-to resource on what buyers are looking for right now, and how to position your home to hit the mark.

Here are just a few tips a great real estate agent will walk you through. They may seem simple, but advice like this can make all the difference.

1. Competitive Pricing: One of the most critical factors in selling your home quickly is setting the right price. A local real estate agent will do a competitive market analysis by reviewing recent sales and current listings for your area. Then, they’ll use that data to make sure your home is priced accurately for today’s market. This strategic pricing approach is the best way to make sure you’re hitting the sweet spot on price. If you don’t lean on an agent for this, it can really slow your process down. As U.S. News says:

“. . . setting an unrealistically high price with the idea that you can come down later doesn’t work in real estate . . . A home that’s overpriced in the beginning tends to stay on the market longer, even after the price is cut, because buyers think there must be something wrong with it.”

2. The Home’s Condition: Homes that are well maintained, have great curb appeal, and are updated with modern finishes tend to sell faster. So, if speed is a priority, make sure your house makes a great first impression. An agent is a key resource on what buyers will be looking for, if staging is worthwhile, and what repairs you need to tackle before you list. Ramsey Solutions offers this advice:

“In the spirit of selling your home fast, take care of things now that will be a problem in the closing process. Talk to your agent about fixes you’ll need to make to pass the home inspection, like: plumbing problems, roof damage, electrical issues, HVAC glitches. . . These are issues you’ll be expected to take care of before any buyers close on your house—you might as well get ahead of the game to help your home sell faster.”

3. Incentives and Extras: If you want to stand out from those other homes on the market, offering incentives or concessions, like help with closing costs, a home warranty, or including additional items (like appliances or furniture) with the sale can sweeten the deal for buyers. A real estate agent can suggest the right incentives to offer based on current market conditions and buyer expectations, so you can close the sale even faster.

Bottom Line

Selling a home quickly in a shifting market requires a strategic approach and an in-depth understanding of what buyers want. That’s why partnering with a local real estate agent is so important. As Forbes says:

“When time is of the essence, you can’t afford to take a chance on an inexperienced housing professional. Instead, you’ll want to work with a real estate agent who knows your market and has helped sellers in your situation before.”

Let’s connect to make sure you’re set up for success.

[coreyleblancrealty]

St. Albert Homes for Sale: A Growing Real Estate Opportunity

St. Albert, located just northwest of Edmonton, is one of Alberta’s most sought-after residential areas. Known for its family-friendly atmosphere, scenic beauty, and tight-knit community, St. Albert offers an ideal balance between urban amenities and a peaceful lifestyle. For potential homebuyers, St. Albert homes for sale present a great opportunity, whether you're a first-time buyer, a family looking to upgrade, or someone seeking a long-term investment.

Why Choose St. Albert?

St. Albert boasts a perfect blend of nature and convenience. Nestled along the Sturgeon River, the city is surrounded by beautiful parks, trails, and recreational areas. With a population of just over 65,000, the city is large enough to offer essential amenities but still small enough to maintain a close-knit community feel.

One of the main draws to St. Albert is its exceptional quality of life. The city consistently ranks as one of the best places to live in Canada, thanks to its low crime rates, excellent schools, and abundant recreational facilities. The thriving arts and culture scene, combined with a wide variety of shops, restaurants, and community events, makes St. Albert a vibrant and welcoming place to call home.

Types of Homes for Sale

When it comes to real estate in St. Albert, there is something for everyone. The local housing market is diverse, offering options ranging from cozy starter homes to luxury estates. Here are some popular types of homes for sale in St. Albert:

Single-Family Homes: Ideal for families or those seeking more space, single-family homes are the most common type of property in St. Albert. Many feature large yards, multiple bedrooms, and modern amenities, making them perfect for growing families.

Townhomes: For buyers looking for a low-maintenance lifestyle, townhomes are an excellent option. These properties typically come with smaller yards and shared amenities, such as playgrounds or recreational facilities, making them ideal for busy professionals or retirees.

Condos: Condominiums in St. Albert provide an affordable entry into the housing market. They are also popular with downsizers and those seeking convenience and community living. Condo developments in St. Albert often come with amenities like fitness centers, social rooms, and secure parking.

Luxury Homes: For those seeking an upscale lifestyle, St. Albert has a selection of luxury properties. These homes often feature high-end finishes, spacious floor plans, and breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. Whether you’re looking for a riverfront property or a modern mansion, luxury homes in St. Albert cater to the discerning buyer.

What to Consider Before Buying

While St. Albert is an attractive location, there are a few things to consider before purchasing a home. The local real estate market is competitive, especially in desirable neighborhoods. It’s important to work with a qualified real estate agent who is familiar with the area and can help you navigate the market effectively.

Location is another key factor. Affordable St. Albert Homes for Sale has a variety of neighborhoods, each offering unique features and amenities. For example, newer developments on the west side of the city are popular with families due to their proximity to schools and parks. On the other hand, downtown St. Albert is ideal for those who prefer to be close to shopping, dining, and cultural activities.

Finally, think about your long-term needs. While a smaller home might be perfect for now, consider whether you’ll need more space in the future if your family grows. Likewise, if you’re close to retirement, a low-maintenance property like a condo or townhome might be the best fit.

[monsterkong]

Mastering the Art of Property Valuation: How to Negotiate Like a Pro

Hello, fellow property moguls! 🏠 Today, we're diving into one of the most critical aspects of real estate investing: property valuation and negotiation. Whether you're a seasoned investor or just getting started, understanding how to accurately value a property and negotiate the best terms is key to your success. Let's get into it! 🚀

The Case of the Overpriced Property

Recently, I encountered a situation that’s all too common in the real estate world. A property on the market for over 75 days, listed at $341K, but based on comparable sales, it was realistically worth around $285K. The sellers were stuck on their price, and potential buyers were avoiding the property like the plague. 😓

So, what do you do when a property is overpriced? You negotiate, but not just any negotiation—you need to negotiate like a pro.

Step 1: Understanding Market Value

The first step in any successful negotiation is understanding the true market value of the property. This means looking at comparable sales, also known as "comps," in the area. For this property, a similar home nearby had sold for $325K, but it was newer and in better condition. This immediately told me that the $341K asking price was way off. 📉

But here's the thing: knowing the market value isn't just about numbers. It's about understanding what those numbers mean for the seller and how you can use that information to your advantage.

Step 2: Building Your Case

Armed with the facts, I approached the seller’s agent. I laid out the comparable sales, highlighted the property's condition, and pointed out that the longer it stays on the market, the harder it will be to sell. This approach isn't just about lowering the price; it's about showing the seller why their current strategy isn't working and how my offer is their best option. ���

I also made sure to discuss the additional costs associated with holding onto a property—like property taxes, maintenance, and the risk of further price drops. By doing this, I positioned myself as a problem solver, someone who could help them get out of a tricky situation.

Step 3: Leveraging Seller Motivations

One of the most powerful tools in negotiation is understanding the seller's motivation. Why are they selling? Are they in a hurry? Are they holding out for a specific number, or are they flexible? In this case, the sellers were an older couple, and the property was an inheritance. They were more concerned with getting the most out of the sale than with the timeline. 💼

By understanding their motivations, I was able to tailor my offer to meet their needs. I suggested creative financing as an option, where they could get close to their asking price, but on my terms—terms that would allow me to manage cash flow better and potentially increase the property's value over time.

Step 4: Presenting the Offer

When it came time to present the offer, I made sure it was clear, concise, and backed by data. I offered $300K, with the possibility of seller financing, explaining how this could actually benefit them in the long run. I made it clear that while they might not get the full $341K they were hoping for, they would likely end up with more money in their pocket by avoiding immediate capital gains taxes and earning interest on the seller-financed note. 📈

Step 5: Negotiating Like a Pro

Negotiation isn't just about the offer; it's about how you present it. I remained calm, confident, and focused on the value I was bringing to the table. I listened to their concerns, addressed them directly, and made sure they understood that my goal was a win-win situation. 🤝

One of the most important aspects of negotiation is knowing when to walk away. I made it clear that while I was interested in the property, I wasn't desperate. This put me in a strong position because the sellers knew that I had other opportunities and that my offer was based on solid market analysis.

Final Thoughts

Negotiating a real estate deal is as much an art as it is a science. It requires a deep understanding of market value, a keen sense of timing, and the ability to present your case in a way that resonates with the seller. If you can master these skills, you'll find that you can turn even the most challenging deals into profitable ventures. 💸

So, whether you're dealing with an overpriced property or trying to secure a creative financing deal, remember these steps: know the market, build your case, understand the seller’s motivations, present your offer clearly, and always negotiate like a pro. Your next big deal could be just a negotiation away! 🚀

Stay tuned for more tips and insights on how to navigate the exciting world of real estate. Until next time, keep building that empire and remember—every deal is an opportunity waiting to be seized! 💼💥

[peakmanufacturingau]

5 Reasons Why Weather Resistance Is Paramount in Roofing

Roofs have been a vital part of homes for ages. Without it, people would never have a shelter that can protect them from anything happening outside their homes. As a first line of defence against the weather and other furies from nature, choosing a roofing with weather resistance is necessary. With the help of professional roofing suppliers Sydney, here are some of the many reasons why weather resistance is paramount in roofing:

Protection from Elemental Damage

Rain, hail, and wind are just some of the many things people encounter. So, imagine your neighbourhood experiencing these and you are the only one that does not have a roof. It can be devastating to live in your home. With your roofing being weather-resistant, you can guarantee that you have protection against elemental damage.

Longevity

Weather-resistant roofing means it is made of high-quality materials. And when good tools are used in creating a product, you can expect that you can use it for a long time. The longevity of the roofing is what makes it worth it and phenomenal, so ensure that you spend your money on something worth it. Investing in good quality roofing will never go to waste, considering that it can make your home look good and everyone safe inside.

Prevention of Leaks

Leaks are one of the common issues you will see in roofing. And once they happen, you can either fix it or replace the roof. Sometimes, the former works, but only if the issue is not severe. However, the latter might be the only thing left if the leaks are everywhere in your home. To help you be aware of this problem, here are some of its causes:

Damaged or Missing Shingles

Damaged or missing roofing shingles can deteriorate after years of usage. Even if it receives maintenance, the time will come when you will need to replace them. So, if you notice that your shingles have issues, do not hesitate to ask for the assistance of professionals. Those missing or broken shingles can be the start of your headache.

Improper Installation

Sadly, improper installation is also another cause of roof leaks. Most of these cases happen when the installation was done DIY and the one who did it does not have enough knowledge, experience, and tools. Save yourself from the hassle by letting roofing experts do their job.

Clogged Gutters and Downspouts

Clogged gutters can become clogged because of leaves, twigs, and dirt. These things might look small and nothing at first, but having a buildup can cause clogging. And if those are not removed early enough, the leak will start to say hello to your home.

Ageing and Wear

Even if roofing can last for years, you need to accept that the time will come when you need to repair or replace them. Leaks can happen because of ageing and wear, but keeping them in that same condition can cause more pressing damage and issues in the future.

Storm Damage

Storms, strong winds, and falling debris can cause immediate damage to your roof, so ensure to invest in something sturdy that can withstand different weather conditions. Once the storm hits something on your roof and they are kept unchecked, expect leakage to come soon.

Prevention of Mould and Mildew

Weather resistance in roofing could mean preventing mould and mildew from occurring. When there is rain, you do not need to worry about roof water pooling. But even if you do not see or experience signs of mould and mildew in your home, always be mindful and perform regular cleaning.

Enhanced Property Value

If you ever decide to sell your property, one of the things buyers would check is the sturdiness and quality of your home. And with that, it includes the roof. If the shelter is weak and low-quality, do not expect them to accept the offer. Instead, before putting your house on the market, ensure that everything is fixed and in good condition.

Here are other reasons why:

Storm Protection

Preservation of Structural Integrity

Reduced Maintenance Costs

Peace of Mind

Protection of Belongings

Weather resistance in roofing has many significance, and these are just some of them. Always check the quality and materials of everything you invest in to see if it is worth it or not. May these factors guide you in knowing what is best for your property and how to maintain it.

[doorproplus]

Worried About Broken Glass - Get Glass Replacement Llano TX

Your garage is an important and essential part of your home. Besides being an entrance point, it's also a spot to park your vehicles and store things, but we can’t exactly be sure if it’s actually protected from extreme weather conditions or thefts. If your garage door has not been in use for a long time, then it is time to get a new Garage door installation Burnet TX.

Most garage doors last for a time period of anywhere between 15 to 30 years, although you as well have been using the same garage that you’ve seen you’re father use all his life, and in all this time, it’s bound to wear down at one point and stop functioning.

To prevent a situation where your garage door stops working, and you’re either stuck inside or outside of it in bad weather and can’t seem to make it through, it’s best to get your Garage door installation Burnet TX from a professional technician who knows the ins and outs of a garage door well.

Getting a new Garage door installation Burnet TX, will help to efficiently increase the value of your property. Most real agents agree that a new and attractive garage door attracts new buyers the most. Additionally, it quickly improves a home’s value and gets it ready for sale in no time.

Residential Glass Replacement Horseshoe Bay TX

Getting your household’s glass windows repaired and replaced at the right time is effectively beneficial and important for your own safety and also for the others living there.

A broken or cracked glass would pose a hazardous situation for everyone present around it this can lead to serious injuries. Windows are an integral part of our houses; they provide us with natural light, ventilation, and a chance to see what’s happening in the outside world.

Whenever there’s a broken or cracked window in your house, then that issue needs urgent attention. It’s best to get a Residential glass replacement Horseshoe Bay TX, to avoid any potential casualties and let the professionals handle this.

Getting a Residential glass replacement Horseshoe Bay TX, helps you to avoid and take precautions from any serious injuries that you or others around you might suffer from its damage.

Be Prepared And Be Safe With Glass Replacement Llano TX

Your household's current windows might seem normal to you now, but it seems fine and okay from afar; it has been there for years, and whether old or dated, it’s best to get those windows replaced with Glass replacement Llano TX for the benefit of you and your family. The sunlight that comes into the house first hits the window's outer panel, which makes the glass windows or any glass get warm, letting the heat pass

[acleanpressurecleaning]

How Cleaning Services Can Make Your Life Easier

Professional cleaning services have streamlined procedures and high-quality equipment. These factors help them finish jobs faster and more efficiently than their untrained counterparts.

They also have access to cleaning products that are safe for your home or office. Moreover, they can offer discounts for regular engagements. This is an effective way to build trust and loyalty among clients.

1.        Peace of Mind

Peace of mind is a state of inner calmness and tranquility that can help you feel more relaxed and content. It can be hard to find peace of mind in a busy and chaotic world, but there are ways that you can get closer to it.

Cleaning services can provide you with peace of mind by ensuring that your home or business is always clean and tidy. This can free up your time so you can focus on other things, like growing your business or spending quality time with your family.

The term peace of mind is often misspelled as piece of mind, but the two words are homonyms. The phrase is also sometimes used to refer to a specific mental health condition, such as anxiety or depression.

2.        Saves You Time

Hiring a professional cleaning service is one of the best ways to save time. They are experts in their field and can clean much faster than you could on your own. They also have access to high-quality equipment and products that you might not have.

In addition, many professional cleaning services have customer relationship management (CRM) programs that allow for more effective and efficient communication with clients. This can help to eliminate stress and reactive concerns and instead create a proactive dialogue between you and the cleaning company.

A clean environment is essential for workplace productivity. Employees who work in a dirty environment can become sick more easily and this leads to them missing work, costing you money and lost productivity. A trusted cleaning company will ensure your workspace is sanitized regularly to keep employees healthy and productive.

3.        Saves You Money

Many people think cleaning services are expensive, but they actually save you money and time. For instance, you will not have to constantly buy new cleaning supplies. The professionals bring their own, and they use quality products that ensure a deep clean. This is especially helpful if you have a large home or business.

Having a clean office or workplace also helps keep you and your employees healthy.

This can prevent sickness and reduce lost work days. It also gives a great impression to visitors and clients.

In addition, a professional cleaning company can handle all the details so you do not have to worry about things like trash removal and washing windows. This gives you more time to focus on your business. A great cleaning service will also provide customer-friendly communication and offer a customer portal to address any issues.

4.        Makes Your Home Look Better

Professional cleaners take the time to get to know your specific needs and requirements. They understand what cleaning products are safe to use on certain materials and how to treat them properly, ensuring that your furniture, tiles, and appliances last longer and look great.

They also know how to clean those hard-to-reach areas that you tend to overlook. A clean home gives a great first impression to guests and potential buyers and may even increase the value of your property.

Keeping your home looking good takes up a lot of your time and energy. But when you hire a cleaning service, you can save that time and spend it on other things. It’s a win-win situation for everyone! Moreover, cleaning services have access to special tools and supplies that make your house shine like never before.

5.        Makes Your Life Easier

A professional pressure cleaning service can make your life easier by taking the burden of housework off your shoulders. They have top-notch equipment and supplies, are more efficient at their job than you would be, and follow a streamlined process to get the job done quickly and thoroughly.

These types of services are perfect for homes with pets or kids, and focus on sanitizing and disinfecting surfaces that can harbor germs. They often use specialized products that are safe for your home and family, while also improving indoor air quality.

Businesses need janitorial services for their offices and other large spaces. These companies will clean the floors, walls, ceilings, and other areas of the building to keep it looking its best. They may also offer services like reorganizing and decluttering.

[chanceshirley]

A Golden Age

It’s been said (by Comics Buyer’s Guide editor Maggie Thompson, or maybe it was comic book writer Roy Thomas) that the golden age of comics is five. Meaning that no matter how comics historians might define the Golden Age of comic books (and the Silver and Bronze Ages), what really matters to the individual comic book reader is the time that they started reading comics. I was probably interested in comic books when I was five years old (this was the mid-1970s, and it seemed like comic books were everywhere then, but I particularly remember seeing them in grocery stores and convenience stores), but I didn’t actually read my first comic book till I was seven.

I wasn’t a great reader at that point. It took me hours to read that first comic book because I was still at the stage in my reading life where I had to sound out every word. (And I probably had to ask my poor parents to help me out with several words per page.) But having spent so much time with my first comic book, I remember it vividly 40-plus years later — it was the 180th issue of The Amazing Spider-Man, a story titled “Who Was That Goblin I Saw You With?” The DC superheroes (Superman, Batman, Wonder Woman, and pals) were on TV every Saturday morning back then on the Super Friends cartoon. And Super Friends was appointment television viewing for me, but I first saw Spider-Man on The Electric Company, a PBS educational show I watched every weekday afternoon. Spidey was on The Electric Company to encourage kids to read (this version of the character didn’t speak out loud — his words were all presented in on-screen comic dialogue balloons), but Marvel, the publisher of Spidey comic books, surely didn’t mind that seeing Spidey on TV probably encouraged a few kids to buy Spider-Man comic books.

That was certainly the case with me. One morning I asked my dad if he’d pick me up some comic books on his way home from work. He asked me which comic books, and I said “Spider-Man!” And that afternoon Dad brought me home Amazing Spider-Man no. 180. I think he also brought me home a Batman book and, possibly, a third comic. But this was a very long time ago — I don’t even remember if I bothered to read the other book (or books) he brought home that day. (Owning more books than they read is a thing that all book people do, right?)

I still love Spider-Man (and I am not alone — he’s a big movie star now), and I still love Spidey comic books, especially Spidey comic books from the late 1970s. Because that’s my golden age of comic books. I’ve been thinking lately about how, if I’d been enterprising enough to find a job that would hire a seven-year-old in the late 1970s, I could have read all of the Spidey books of the era plus most everything else that Marvel published at the time. These comic books were, after all, generally only 35 cents a piece (about $1.60 a piece in 2022 money). An hour or two of minimum wage work would earn you enough to buy a week’s worth of Marvel books.

They say you can’t go home again. But thanks to the internet (something we definitely did not have in 1978) and services like Marvel Unlimited and Comixology, you can read a whole lot of old comic books. So I decided it might be fun to go back to the month my first comic book hit newsstands (which according to the Fandom.com Marvel wikiis February 1978) and read all (or at least most) of the Marvel comic books of the era in the order of publication. And then I decided if I was going to read all of those comics, it might be fun to write a little about the experience. 

Based on a quick survey of a few months in 1978, Marvel was publishing (in the United States) around 40 titles a month in those days. My first thought was to write a comic-book-a-day column (with due respect to Brian W. Collins’ iconic Horror-Movie-a-Day blog) about my Marvel Time Warp, covering a month of 1978 books in a month of columns. But I’d need to read (and write about) approximately 1.3 comic books per day to keep up a month-for-month pace, and I’m probably not going to be able to manage that. Because, if nothing else, I have a bunch of other nerdy hobbies that I like to spend time on.

And I’m also not sure how much I will have to say about some of these comic books. I expect for the first month or two I will have a good bit to say because a lot of these books and characters (at least the 1978 versions of these characters) are new to me. But after that, who knows? Which is fine! So far I’m having a lot of fun (and learning a lot of new things about the comic books of my youth), and I’ll keep on with the reading (and with the writing about the reading) as long as it is fun.

And if you’re reading my writing about my 1978 comic book reading, hopefully you’re getting some entertainment out of this little adventure, too!

In the tradition of many comic book stories of the 1970s, I’ll close out this premiere column with a tease to (hopefully) get you to come back for my second column…