Missouri’s claim to fame is Lake of the Ozarks and we are seeing what we can get for under $1 million, right on the water. Our latest Splurge vs. Steal looks at two waterfront homes, each with a great location and space to dock your boat, but with price points that are miles apart. Which would you choose, the sprawling two-story splurge or the family-friendly waterfront steal?
If you’re searching for a one-of-a-kind historic showplace in Berkeley, California, this 1926 treasure is a must-see. From the stunning 3,087-square-feet home to the naturesque 6,970-square-feet lot, every inch of indoor and outdoor living space is designed to dazzle the senses.
Located on a private cul-de-sac at 2772 Hilgard Avenue, the sprawling two-story home – nestled amid lush native greenery and old growth trees – has the secluded feel of an intimate compound although UC Berkeley and the Greek Theatre are just steps away.
Hawaii? Nope. California? Nope. Florida? Nope. Where is the hottest second home market in the U.S.? Ocean City, New Jersey.
According to an analysis of second home purchases by SmartAsset, Ocean City rose to the top of the list thanks to a whopping 79.38 percent of its mortgages were for secondary residences. The coastal town has 2,865 mortgages for second homes and 744 for primary residences.
By Deb R. Brimer
Contributing Writer
You can get lost in this 4,932-square-foot home and its rich Blue Grass history in Millersburg, Kentucky.
Located on a quarter-acre lot at 1001 Main Street, the two-story gem is filled with 19th century wow factors and current upgrades. A gorgeous wooden staircase winding from the front room is the centerpiece of the single-family home.
In addition to two more staircases, features range from a living room, parlor, formal dining area, and stainless-steel kitchen to four large bedrooms, two full baths, and stunning hardwood flooring. (more…)
Editor’s Note: Recently, MoneyWise revealed its list of the 40 most frugal and friendly places to retire. In a bid to provide an idea of what housing inventory is available in these cities and towns, we’re taking a look at listings in each of the cities on the list.
Not everyone can spend $1 million or more on a second home, even if it’s with the idea that eventually you’ll retire there. So when MoneyWise’s list of 40 places to retire that are more budget-friendly came out, we were curious — what kind of homes could you find in these towns?
Last week, we looked at the 23rd city on the list — Thousand Oaks, Calfornia. This week, we look at Richardson, Texas, and found three great homes — all for less than $410,000.
“Richardson, Texas, has hot summers and mild winters, and this friendly city has a low crime rate,” MoneyWise said. “The cost of living is a bit higher than in some of the other cities on our list: you’ll need an income of around $72.000 to live comfortably here.”
“Richardson is located near Dallas, so you’ll have big-city amenities while living in a small community of just over 100,000. Three hospitals and 15 medical centers ensure you’ll never be without healthcare when you need it.”
Want to see examples of what you can find in Richardson? Let’s jump! (more…)
Photo courtesy Wikimedia Commons
Editor’s Note: Recently, MoneyWise revealed its list of the 40 most frugal and friendly places to retire. In a bid to provide an idea of what housing inventory is available in these cities and towns, we’re taking a look at listings in each of the cities on the list.
Not everyone can spend $1 million or more on a second home, even if it’s with the idea that eventually you’ll retire there. So when MoneyWise’s list of 40 places to retire that are more budget-friendly came out, we were curious — what kind of homes could you find in these towns?
Last week, we looked at the 24th city on the list — Las Cruces, New Mexico. This week, we look at Thousand Oaks, California, and found in California “frugal” is relative, but still found three great homes — all for less than $500,000.
“The cost of living in Thousand Oaks is on the higher side, but for those with an income of about $100,000, this can be an amazing choice for California living,” MoneyWise said. “This city is green and home to many parks and outdoor activities.”
Photo courtesy Wikimedia Commons
“It’s located near Malibu and not far from Los Angeles,” the article continues. “Good healthcare is found in surrounding areas, so be prepared to travel to your doctor.”
Want to see examples of what you can find in Thousand Oaks? Let’s jump! (more…)
Downtown Cedar Rapids, Iowa (Photo courtesy Wikimedia Commons/Cory Munson)
Editor’s Note: Recently, MoneyWise revealed its list of the 40 most frugal and friendly places to retire. In a bid to provide an idea of what housing inventory is available in these cities and towns, we’re taking a look at listings in each of the cities on the list.
Not everyone can spend $1 million or more on a second home, even if it’s with the idea that eventually you’ll retire there. So when MoneyWise’s list of 40 places to retire that are more budget-friendly came out, we were curious — what kind of homes could you find in these towns?
Last week, we looked at the 26th city on the list — Springfield, Missouri. This week, we look at Cedar Rapids, Iowa, and found three great homes — all for less than $225,000.
“This small city of 128,000 is developing at a quick pace. Traffic can be heavy during rush hours, but you will find easy access to the interstate highway,” MoneyWise said. “Cost of living is low, with a median income of $53,000. Winters can be quite cold and long, while summers are hot and humid.”
“For people who are used to definite seasons and want to take advantage of investment potential in this growing city, Cedar Rapids is a great retirement option. This community has 16 healthcare centers and rates highly for medical access.”
Want to see examples of what you can find in Cedar Rapids? Let’s jump! (more…)
Photo courtesy Wikimedia Commons
Editor’s Note: Recently, MoneyWise revealed its list of the 40 most frugal and friendly places to retire. In a bid to provide an idea of what housing inventory is available in these cities and towns, we’re taking a look at listings in each of the cities on the list.
Not everyone can spend $1 million or more on a second home, even if it’s with the idea that eventually you’ll retire there. So when MoneyWise’s list of 40 places to retire that are more budget-friendly came out, we were curious — what kind of homes could you find in these towns?
Last week, we looked at the 27th city on the list — Charleston, South Carolina. This week, we look at Springfield, Missouri, and found three great homes — all for less than $350,000.
“Springfield is an inexpensive place to live: the median income is around $34,000, and rent can be less than $700 per month,” MoneyWise said. “Median home prices come in at just over $100,000.”
“You will see some snow in the winter and summers can be hot, but not extreme. The city has three hospitals, as well as extensive home care offerings.”
Want to see examples of what you can find in Springfield? Let’s jump! (more…)
