Home Ownership Archives

Rent Rebellion—11 Power Moves to Crush Your Lease Renewal Negotiation

April 17, 2025 by Riley Clendenin

Your landlord is counting on you not knowing these negotiation tricks.

Landlords expect most tenants to sign lease renewals without a second thought—just a signature and a rent bump you feel powerless to argue. But the truth is, you have way more leverage than you think. With rising housing costs and higher vacancy rates in many areas, property owners don’t want a good tenant walking away. That’s where a little preparation, a strong mindset, and a few smart tactics come in handy.

You don’t need to go full courtroom-drama mode to negotiate a better deal. It’s all about knowing your rights, showing your value, and being bold enough to ask for what you deserve. These power moves aren’t just for renters in big cities or luxury apartments—they work in small towns, suburban complexes, and everything in between. If your lease renewal is around the corner and your landlord is trying to push the price up, this is your chance to push back. Here are 11 strategic moves that can help you crush your lease renewal negotiation and keep more money in your pocket.

11 Ways Boomers Crushed the Housing Dreams of Gen Z and Millennials

April 8, 2025 by Riley Clendenin

Buying a home used to be normal—now it feels like winning the lottery.

Boomers didn’t set out to ruin housing for everyone else, but the combination of timing, policy influence, and a heavy dose of “I got mine” thinking helped create a landscape where younger generations are now priced out, boxed in, or forced to rent forever. It wasn’t just about luck—though they had plenty of that, too. Boomers came of age when wages could actually keep up with housing costs, and many have spent decades defending systems that kept those advantages locked in.

What’s surprising isn’t just how good they had it—but how hard they’ve fought to keep it that way, even as the world changed. Younger generations are dealing with inflated prices, limited inventory, and a housing market that seems rigged against them. And while not every Boomer is hoarding wealth or blocking development, the cumulative effect of their decisions—and inaction—has reshaped the American dream into something most people can’t even touch. Here are 11 ways Boomers unintentionally (or very intentionally) helped crush younger generations’ shot at owning a home.

Ditch the High Rent: 9 Ways to Make Living in a Work for You

March 24, 2025 by James Clendenin

Rent doesn’t have to be a financial dead end if you learn how to make it work for you.

Renting can feel like throwing money into a black hole—especially when prices keep rising and ownership feels out of reach. But with the right strategies, your rental can be more than just a monthly expense. It can actually become a tool for saving money, building side income, or adding long-term value to your lifestyle. It’s not always about paying less—it’s about getting more out of what you’re already paying for.

That starts with thinking creatively about your space, your schedule, and your spending habits. By tapping into the full potential of your living arrangement—whether it’s a studio or a multi-bedroom flat—you can start reclaiming your budget. These nine practical strategies go beyond the usual “get a roommate” advice and show you how to transform your rent into something that works for you, not against you. You’re already paying for the space—now it’s time to make it earn its keep.

Game-Changing Housing Laws: 13 Cities That Are Redefining Urban Living

March 24, 2025 by Riley Clendenin

These forward-thinking cities are rewriting the rules on how we live, rent, and own.

Cities aren’t waiting around for federal reforms—they’re pushing ahead with bold housing laws that challenge the status quo. With rising rent, growing populations, and housing shortages pushing people to the edge, these 13 cities are shaking things up. They’re introducing creative zoning changes, loosening restrictions, and making room for new types of living spaces that didn’t fit traditional molds.

Some of these changes are subtle, others are seismic—but all of them point toward a new vision of urban life. These places aren’t just reacting to housing issues—they’re getting ahead of them. Whether you’re a renter tired of outdated rules or a homeowner curious about what’s possible, these cities are worth watching. The future of housing might already be happening in your backyard.

15 Cities Where New Housing Laws Will Change How We Live

March 21, 2025 by James Clendenin

These cities are changing the game with bold housing reforms.

Housing laws are evolving across the country, and these changes will reshape how we live, work, and interact in urban spaces. From zoning shifts to innovative housing models, cities are paving the way for increased affordability, sustainability, and accessibility.

This list spotlights 15 cities where transformative policies are taking effect, redefining the meaning of home and community in ways that might surprise you.

Struggling With Rent? These 13 Cities Offer Affordable Housing for Young People

March 21, 2025 by James Clendenin

Finding an affordable place to live doesn’t have to feel impossible.

For young people trying to get ahead, high rent prices can feel like a never-ending battle. In major cities, the cost of housing keeps rising, making it tough to save, invest, or even enjoy basic financial security. While many urban areas seem out of reach, some cities are still offering affordable rent, strong job markets, and a decent quality of life without draining your bank account.

These 13 cities stand out for their lower cost of living, reasonable rent prices, and opportunities for young professionals looking to build their future. Whether you want a bustling downtown scene, a laid-back vibe, or a mix of both, these places provide a financial break while still offering everything you need.

If you’re tired of spending most of your paycheck on rent, it might be time to consider packing up and moving to a city where your money stretches further.

14 Hot Cities Where Real Estate Prices Are Climbing Fast

March 21, 2025 by Riley Clendenin

Buying a home in these cities could cost you way more if you wait too long.

Real estate prices are rising across the country, but some cities are experiencing a faster surge than others. Whether it’s due to booming job markets, an influx of new residents, or increased demand for housing, these places are becoming more expensive by the day. What used to be affordable is now slipping out of reach, and if you’re thinking about buying, waiting could mean paying tens of thousands more.

It’s not just big coastal cities seeing skyrocketing prices. Many smaller and mid-sized metros are becoming hot real estate markets, with bidding wars and shrinking inventory driving up costs. While this can be great news for homeowners looking to sell, it’s making it harder for buyers to find good deals. If you’re hoping to invest in a home or relocate to one of these high-growth areas, you’ll want to move fast. Here are the cities where real estate prices are climbing at record speed.

10 Countries That Solved Their Housing Crisis—Lessons America Needs to Learn

March 21, 2025 by Riley Clendenin

Some countries fixed their housing problems—so why hasn’t America?

Housing shortages, skyrocketing rents, and unaffordable home prices have made stable housing feel out of reach for millions of Americans. While policymakers debate solutions, other countries have already tackled similar crises with innovative policies, strong government action, and creative urban planning. These nations prove that housing doesn’t have to be a luxury—it can be a right, an investment in the economy, and a foundation for stable communities.

The U.S. isn’t the only country to struggle with housing affordability, but it is one of the few that hasn’t implemented large-scale, lasting solutions. Meanwhile, countries across Europe, Asia, and even South America have turned things around with bold policies that put people before profit. Whether it’s mass public housing, rent control, or incentives for affordable construction, these 10 countries have found ways to make housing work—and their successes offer important lessons America can’t afford to ignore.