Myrtle Beach, SC, is a coastal city that attracts thousands of visitors each year with its stunning beaches, fantastic weather, and diverse entertainment options. However, the city isn’t just for tourists, it’s also an excellent place to call home. So whether you’re searching for an apartment or looking to buy a home in Myrtle Beach, this Redfin article has 7 great reasons why you should consider moving to the area and why you’ll love it.
1. Miles of Beautiful Beaches
Myrtle Beach’s biggest draw is undoubtedly its beautiful beaches. With over 60 miles of coastline, residents can enjoy sunbathing, swimming, and surfing in the Atlantic Ocean. The city has some of the most pristine and well-maintained beaches in the country, and the stunning views of the ocean make it a paradise for beachgoers.
2. Year-Round Activities and Entertainment
Myrtle Beach has plenty of activities and entertainment options to keep residents busy all year long. The city has several amusement parks, museums, theaters, and water parks. The Myrtle Beach Boardwalk and Promenade offer beautiful ocean views and are home to many restaurants, bars, and shops. With a range of activities available, residents will never run out of things to do.
3. Outdoor Recreation
In addition to its beautiful beaches, Myrtle Beach offers many outdoor recreation opportunities. The city has many parks and nature preserves, including the Myrtle Beach State Park, where residents can enjoy hiking, camping, and fishing. The Intracoastal Waterway is also a popular spot for boating and fishing. If you’re thinking about moving to Myrtle Beach, you’ll love the abundance of outdoor activities available in this coastal city.
4. Affordable Cost of Living
Myrtle Beach, SC is renowned for its affordable cost of living, with expenses 8% lower than the national average. In comparison to neighboring Charleston, SC, and the bustling city of Charlotte, NC, Myrtle Beach offers a 6% lower cost of living. Additionally, with a median sale price of $237,000, Myrtle Beach homes are significantly more affordable compared to the national median of $407,500. This affordability makes Myrtle Beach an enticing destination for individuals and families seeking a cost-effective and comfortable lifestyle in a picturesque coastal setting.
5. Mild Climate
Myrtle Beach’s mild climate is one of its most significant draws for newcomers, making it an ideal place to live for those who love outdoor activities and spending time at the beach. The subtropical climate ensures warm temperatures all year round, with average temperatures ranging from the high 50s in the winter to the mid-80s in the summer. The warm water temperatures and ample sunshine make it a popular spot for swimming, surfing, and kayaking. Even in the cooler months, the beach is a popular destination for walks, picnics, and enjoying the beautiful ocean views.
6. Rich history and culture
Myrtle Beach boasts a rich history and culture that can be explored through its museums, galleries, and landmarks. The Horry County Museum offers insights into the area’s Native American and colonial past, while the Franklin G. Burroughs-Simeon B. Chapin Art Museum showcases local art and music. The city’s vibrant cultural scene also includes events such as the Myrtle Beach International Film Festival and the Carolina Country Music Fest.
7. Southern Hospitality
If you’re considering moving to Myrtle Beach, you’ll appreciate the city’s reputation for friendly locals and Southern hospitality. From the moment you arrive, you’ll feel right at home in this welcoming and inclusive community. With its laid-back lifestyle and warm-hearted residents, Myrtle Beach is an exceptional place to live and experience true Southern hospitality.
Myrtle Beach, SC, is a wonderful place to call home, offering residents miles of beautiful beaches, a range of year-round activities and entertainment options, and ample opportunities for outdoor recreation. The city’s affordable cost of living, mild climate, and rich history and culture add to its appeal, making it a popular destination for those looking to make the move. In addition, Myrtle Beach’s welcoming and inclusive atmosphere and the Southern hospitality makes it easy for newcomers to feel at home almost instantly. If you’re considering a move to Myrtle Beach, be aware you might just fall in love with living in this beautiful coastal city.
Property consultancy Fisher German has appointed a new leader of its IT operations to help drive the firm’s ongoing growth.
Fisher German, which has offices in Banbury, Hereford, Hungerford, Thame, and Worcester, has appointed Carl Stirland as IT Director.
Carl will oversee more than 20 in-house professionals in teams specialising in software development, project management, business change, IT infrastructure and IT service management.
Carl joins Fisher German with 30 years of IT experience across the construction, housebuilding, engineering, manufacturing, and distribution sectors.
This included 20 years of service at a multi-million-pound construction and development group, where he played an instrumental role in laying the digital foundations for key projects to be carried out efficiently, ranging from supermarket developments through to mass housebuilding.
He also spent two years at a FTSE 250 construction firm to help them overhaul their cloud migrations, network, and telecom systems for around 6,000 users.
Carl has recently worked for a leading multi-national plc supplying insulation, roofing, commercial interiors, and specialist construction products as the UK IT business partner to develop the firm’s technological efficiency across 580 distribution centres and trade counters.
Carl said: “Joining a progressive firm such as Fisher German is a brilliant challenge for me to be able to put my three decades of IT experience into practice to help accelerate the firm’s ongoing growth.
“I am passionate about working for a business that is focused on providing great client satisfaction, and my role is to ensure that Fisher German’s IT platforms enable the business to maintain this and improve even further.
“Another key aspect of my role is striking the balance between future proofing the business’s IT portfolio – both for our colleagues and through the services we provide to clients – whilst also ensuring the company’s digital and operational strategies are aligned.”
Carl, who is also a chartered engineer and chartered IT professional, will be based at the firm’s Ashby-de-la-Zouch headquarters with nationwide responsibility for developing the firm’s IT capabilities across its 29 offices.
Managing Partner, Andrew Bridge, added: “We are excited for Carl to join us and to oversee our continued investment in sophisticated and market-leading IT solutions for our colleagues, to help deliver a first-class client service.”
You’re interested in buying a home, but due to the crazy uncertainty of the current real estate market, you’re not sure if now is the right time. Since this is likely one of the biggest purchases you’ll ever make, you’re taking the time to make an informed decision.
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As of March of this year, the median sale price of a home in the U.S. is $400,706 – actually down 3.3% from this time last year. Sounds good, right? Well, that number was $303,201 in March 2020 (meaning 32% two-year growth). Perhaps unsurprisingly, 441,631 homes were sold during the month, marking a -20% year-over-year decrease.
Clearly, the market is in a strange place – demand has fallen significantly, but prices have not yet fallen to meet the reduced demand. This can make it hard to decide whether to keep renting or buy a home of your own because you don’t want to overpay if prices will soon be trending downward.
“The challenge right now with the housing market is that prices are still high, and mortgage rates are on the rise. House affordability is down, which makes renting more attractive in many areas,” said Jay Zigmont, Ph.D., CFP® founder of Childfree Wealth.
Jenna Lofton, a New York City-based stock trader and investor said, “I generally recommend people buy or rent depending on what they value most — security or flexibility.”
In terms of not wanting to overpay for a house, she said the decision to buy or rent depends on where prices are going. Lofton believes buying might be a good idea if you’re financially secure and want a stable housing situation, but warned not to forget about maintenance expenses and other costs associated with homeownership.
“Renting makes sense for people who worry about their financial security,” she said. “If the market changes, then they won’t be stuck with something they can’t afford, which is [a] valuable peace of mind.”
Fear of overpaying for a house in the current real estate market is a very valid concern, so Cynthia Kellogg, a San Francisco Bay Area-based real estate agent with Avenue 8, said to think about how long you can see yourself living in it. In most markets, she said real estate is a long-term investment.
“If your answer is less than five years, depending on your market, then renting might be a safer option,” she said. “But if you’re planning on staying in a home for more than that, your home will likely appreciate and you will make money when you go to sell.”
However, if you’re looking to invest in the real estate market and you have the financial ability to do so, she recommended buying and holding onto the property for as long as you can. “There’s no such thing as timing the market,” she said. “The only real thing that matters is your time in the market.”
To avoid overpaying, she advised looking for properties that have been on the market for longer than average and working with a real estate agent who can help you find a great investment.
“This might mean you make some trade-offs,” Kellogg said. “Perhaps buying a bit outside your desired neighborhood or being willing to commit to some work and potential home improvement projects.”
Clearly, the decision to start shopping for houses right now or continue renting for a while depends on your unique circumstances. The best choice for you might not be the same as a friend or family member in the same predicament.
It’s worth noting that while interest rates have risen sharply – 6.3% for a 30-year fixed-rate mortgage as of April 25 (a massive increase from the all-time low of 2.65% in January of 2021), the average rate since 1971 is 7.75%, implying that rates aren’t likely to go up that much more.
If you’re ready to put down long-term roots in a home and you feel like you can afford a sale price that might be more than what you originally expected, now might be a great time to buy. On the other hand, if you’re not sure you’ll live in the house very long or feel uneasy about spending more than planned on a home, it might be better to keep renting for at least a while.
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Anchorage, AK is a vibrant city with many positives including its stunning scenery, no sales tax, and friendly community. However, the city also has its downsides, such as limited job opportunities and challenging traffic and transportation conditions. The short summer season and long winter nights can also be factors that potential residents need to consider. So, is Anchorage a good place to live? Whether you’re looking to rent an apartment in Anchorage on Redfin or purchase a home in the area, the answer may depend on your priorities and lifestyle preferences. In this diverse and complex city, it’s important to consider the benefits and drawbacks before making a decision about living in Anchorage.
Pros of Living in Anchorage
1. Scenic beauty
Anchorage, Alaska, is known for its breathtaking scenic beauty with its picturesque mountains, stunning glaciers, and expansive forests. One of the most popular attractions is the Chugach State Park, which covers over half a million acres of wildlands, including glaciers, lakes, and forests. The park offers many activities including hiking, camping, and wildlife viewing. The Tony Knowles Coastal Trail, a scenic 11-mile trail along the coast, is another must-visit destination. It offers incredible views of the Cook Inlet, the Chugach Mountains, and even the occasional glimpse of beluga whales. Anchorage is also home to several beautiful gardens, such as the Alaska Botanical Garden and the Anchorage Coastal Wildlife Refuge, where visitors can admire the region’s distinctive flora and fauna.
2. No sales tax
One unique aspect of Anchorage is that there is no sales tax on goods and services. This is due to the city’s reliance on property taxes and other revenue streams, such as fees and licenses, to fund city services and operations. The lack of a sales tax in Anchorage can be a significant draw for residents. Additionally, businesses in Anchorage can benefit from the lack of a sales tax, as it can make their products more affordable and competitive compared to businesses in other states with sales tax.
3. Outdoor recreation opportunities
Anchorage, Alaska, is a hub of outdoor recreational activities. One of the most popular activities in Anchorage is hiking. The Tony Knowles Coastal Trail is a popular trail for visitors and locals alike, offering incredible views of the Cook Inlet and surrounding mountains. In the winter, cross-country skiing and snowshoeing are popular activities, with several groomed trails in and around Anchorage. Downhill skiing and snowboarding are also available at Alyeska Resort, located about an hour’s drive from Anchorage. During the summer months, visitors can go kayaking, fishing, or take a wildlife viewing cruise. Anchorage is also known for its incredible wildlife, including moose, bears, and bald eagles, which can be spotted on many outdoor excursions.
4. An abundance of daylight during the summer months
Anchorage is known for its long summer days, which are characterized by an abundance of daylight. From late May to early August, the sun remains above the horizon for up to 19 hours a day, giving residents plenty of time to enjoy the outdoors. This phenomenon is due to Anchorage’s location at a high latitude, which means that during the summer months, the sun never sets below the horizon.
5. Access to fresh seafood and other locally sourced food
Anchorage, Alaska, is known for its access to fresh seafood, thanks to its location on the shores of the Cook Inlet and proximity to the Gulf of Alaska. The city is home to several seafood markets and restaurants that offer a variety of fresh seafood options, including salmon, halibut, crab, shrimp, and more. In addition to local markets and restaurants, Anchorage also hosts several seafood festivals and events throughout the year, such as the Anchorage Salmon Daze Festival.
6. Friendly community and welcoming atmosphere
Anchorage is a city that is renowned for its friendly community and welcoming atmosphere. Despite being the largest city in Alaska, Anchorage has managed to maintain a small-town feel. The community is made up of people from all walks of life, and this melting pot of cultures creates a unique community. Anchorage residents are known for their warm hospitality and welcoming nature, which is reflected in the numerous community events and festivals that are organized throughout the year like the Iditarod Sled Dog Race, Anchorage First Fridays, and the Anchorage Market.
7. Opportunities for northern lights viewing
Anchorage is one of the best places in the world to view the northern lights, also known as the aurora borealis. The city’s location within the auroral oval, a band of light around the Earth’s magnetic poles where auroras occur most frequently, makes it an ideal spot for viewing this natural phenomenon. The northern lights are most visible during the winter months, from late September to early April when the nights are long and dark. Anchorage has numerous locations where residents and visitors can view the northern lights, such as the Chugach Mountains, the Arctic Valley, and the Knik River Valley.
Cons of Living in Anchorage
8. Limited job opportunities
Anchorage offers fewer job opportunities compared to other cities. This is due to government agencies, the healthcare sector, and the oil and gas industry being the primary employers, leaving limited prospects for other industries. The Ted Stevens International Airport, Providence Alaska Medical Center & Hospital System, and Fort Richardson US Army Base are among the largest employers in Anchorage.
9. Isolation
Anchorage is located in a remote area, separated from the rest of the United States by vast stretches of wilderness, which can make it difficult to access goods, services, and resources that are readily available in other cities. In fact, Anchorage is around 350 miles from Fairbanks and around 850 miles from Juneau, two of Alaska’s major cities.
10. Traffic
Despite having a relatively small population, Anchorage has limited road infrastructure, which can lead to congestion during peak travel times. During rush hour and other busy periods, the city’s main roads can become congested, resulting in long delays and frustrating commutes. The harsh winter weather conditions can also exacerbate traffic conditions, as snow and ice can make roads slick and difficult to navigate.
11. Cold weather
Anchorage is known for its bitterly cold weather, which can make daily life challenging for residents. The winter season in Anchorage can last from October to March, with average temperatures ranging from 5 to 25 degrees Fahrenheit. The cold weather can be exacerbated by wind chill, making it feel even colder.
12. Limited Public Transportation
The city’s public transportation system is relatively small and primarily consists of the People Mover bus system. However, the frequency and coverage of these routes can be limited, making it difficult for residents to rely on public transportation to get around the city. Anchorage residents typically rely on People Mover if they choose not to drive themselves.
13. Short summer season
While summer in Anchorage can be beautiful and enjoyable, the season is relatively short compared to other parts of the country. The summer season typically lasts from mid-June to mid-September, which means that residents have only a few months to enjoy the warm weather and outdoor activities before the cold winter months set in. Additionally, the weather during the summer months can be unpredictable, with rain and cold temperatures still possible even in the heart of summer.
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They’re the go-to people in every crisis, and they’ve boomed in recent years. Management consultancies helped design vaccination programs during the pandemic and are currently providing advice on how to rescue one of the world’s biggest banks.
But they’re now in retreat as the economy slows, laying off thousands of people, and facing renewed criticisms about some of their work and the impact they have on the ability of governments and companies to solve their own problems.
The $230 billion management consulting industry is a broad church: it includes companies offering everything from project management expertise to designing new organizational structures. Within that, strategy consultants offer clients their take on how to build and improve their organizations.
Many big firms — think EY and KPMG — also conduct audits and advise on their clients’ tax issues, though these services are generally seen as distinct from their consulting work.
Last week, the Swiss government awarded a contract worth 8.7 million Swiss francs ($9.8 million) to Alvarez & Marsal Switzerland, a management consultancy, to help with aspects of the emergency takeover of Credit Suisse by its bigger rival UBS.
But this type of professional problem-solver has come under strong criticism as of late.
In The Big Con, published in February, prize-winning economist Mariana Mazzucato and her co-author Rosie Collington argue that management consultancies “infantilize” governments by keeping them dependent on their services.
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Mariana Mazzucato, professor of economics at University College London, photographed on March 7, 2023
National administrations have “become reliant on consultants, and the problem is the consultants take advantage of that,” the University College London professor told CNN. “They have no incentive to make governments better; otherwise they won’t get a future contract.”
Officials farm out some of their most interesting work to consultants who, she argues, often lack the necessary skills and experience to do it well.
“Governments have stopped investing in their own brains,” Mazzucato said. “They’ve become… inertial, not very capable, because they don’t invest in their own capacity.”
The professor, who also advises policymakers around the world, reserves much of her ire for the United Kingdom — a key provider of public and private sector work for consultancies, although the United States, Canada, France and Germany are also big markets.
Many of the criticisms are not exactly new. The stereotype of the overpaid and underqualified consultant advising an organization on how to cut costs (read: headcount), or simply rubberstamp a decision it has already made, has long hung over consulting firms like McKinsey & Company and Boston Consulting Group.
An article published in 2013 in the Harvard Business Review noted that “consulting has long inspired some degree of the-emperor-has-no-clothes skepticism,” citing books such as The Witch Doctors and The Management Myth.
Even so, demand for consultants’ services grew last year, with overall revenue up 10.7%, according to Source, a consulting sector think-tank.
The global consulting industry also enjoyed an “exceptional” period of growth in the wake of the pandemic, said Fiona Czerniawska, chief executive of Source. Between late 2020 and the first half of 2022, companies and governments hired consultants to work on a glut of new projects while many of their own staff were off sick.
Consultancies are on shakier ground now. In recent weeks several major players have announced thousands of layoffs as the outlook for the global economy darkens.
Consultancies hired “aggressively” because of “all the restructuring work coming out from the pandemic, which is now ending,” according to Nicholas Bloom, a research fellow at the London-based Centre for Economic Policy Research and an economics professor at Stanford University.
Layoffs are concentrated in back-office functions, Czerniawska also notes, rather than among client-facing consultants.
“We don’t see any shortage of demand from clients,” she said, referring to both governments and businesses.
Source forecasts total industry revenue will rise between 6% and 10% in 2023.
Mazzucato is not opposed to governments’ use of consultancies in principle. Yet, all too often, she argues, these firms don’t deliver on their promises.
While some companies do have credible experience, she calls a lot of their work “expertise-free.”
Similarly, UK lawmaker Meg Hillier, who chairs the parliamentary Public Accounts Committee, says there has been “a mushrooming” of big consultancy firms that can do “sort of anything you ask,” but some consultants “haven’t got the experience.”
The committee has raised concerns about the UK government’s reliance on consultancies over a number of years, including conducting an inquiry in 2019 into the tens of millions of pounds spent on these firms to prepare the country for leaving the European Union.
Mazzucato packs her book full of examples of high-profile blunders. One is Britain’s £37 billion ($46 billion) test-and-trace program, designed to limit the spread of Covid-19, but which, according to Hillier’s committee, failed to make any “measurable difference.” Deloitte, one of the Big Four accounting firms, was paid about £1 million ($1.2 million) a day for its work on the program.
The author also cites the case of the US federal health insurance website, which ran into technical problems in 2013 shortly after its launch. President Barack Obama’s administration largely took the flak, she writes, despite the participation of 55 contracted companies, including consultancies, in the project.
Tamzen Isacsson, chief executive of Britain’s Management Consultancies Association, counters with other examples: consultants were involved in the successful rollout of the Covid-19 vaccine in the country, she told CNN, and have helped the UK National Health Service speed up its screenings for breast cancer.
“The results speak for themselves,” she said. “We bring in short-term, specific, technical expertise to our clients, and we leave them in a better place.”
Isacsson vehemently rejects the charge that consultants often lack relevant expertise. Mazzucato is trading in “outdated stereotypes,” she says, adding that firms are bound by contracts to deliver specific results.
Czerniawska of Source also argues that consultants’ expertise is not in question. Nearly 80% of firms surveyed globally have told the think-tank that consultants’ work is either of high or very high quality, she noted.
But Czerniawska acknowledged that some “really big, complex projects” were not delivering “the kind of success that taxpayers would expect.”
Thomas Coex/AFP/Getty Images
McKinsey & Company’s stand at the 2023 Mobile World Congress in Barcelona
Bloom at Stanford University, who is a former McKinsey consultant, argues that “the big question is what is the average impact of consulting?”
“From the data I’ve seen it’s positive, although it’s hard to know if they earn their fees,” he told CNN, noting that consultancies do not share relevant information on that.
And Mari Sako, professor of management studies at Oxford university, points to the “revolving door” between governments and management consultancies, with many former civil servants now working for these firms.
That can be a strength, she said.
“You need very contextual knowledge [to work in government], and if that’s done well, then I think that consultants, as part of a team, would add value.”
The UK government is hiring more digital, procurement and finance specialists, in part, to become less reliant on consultants, according to Hillier, the lawmaker.
“There can be a very high cost to consultants,” she told CNN. “Sometimes, some of the consultancy work, you wonder why they’re paying quite so much for it.”
Ultimately, Mazzucato argues, only by doing more of the work themselves can governments become better at solving problems, devising economic strategy and innovating.
“You learn how to ride a bike by falling off, and getting up again.”
Environment Analyst study rates consultants on their climate and ESG efforts and urges further action to maintain client, employee and investor trust.
Our new report, ESG Strategies: Accelerating Impact and Net Zero Goals in Consultancy, provides a unique assessment of how the world’s major environmental & sustainability (E&S) consultants are responding to the rapidly evolving climate and ESG disclosure landscape, gauging their progress using sector-specific ratings criteria and industry carbon intensity benchmarks developed by our analyst team.
Find out about the Net Zero Journey & ESG Impact ‘leaders’ and ‘innovators’…
DOWNLOAD FREE SUMMARY REPORT HERE
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[PRESS RELEASE]
*****AECOM, BCG, Jacobs and WSP are five-star rated firms*****
Environment Analyst (www.home.environment-analyst.com, Shrewsbury, UK), the independent market intelligence partner and advisor to the global consulting and professional services industry, has published an assessment of how the world’s major environmental & sustainability (E&S) consultants are responding to the rapidly evolving climate and ESG disclosure landscape.
The report, ‘ESG Strategies: Accelerating Impact and Net Zero Goals in Consultancy’, finds that while the drivers and pressures for action are proliferating, some consultancies have been slow to respond – in spite of being on the front line when it comes to advising businesses and governments on how to engage. Others are leading in advancing the agenda, innovating solutions and making measurable progress that will ultimately benefit their clients and supply chains, as well as people, planet and society.
Environment Analyst developed a unique, stakeholder perception analysis and ratings system, assessing how fifty leading E&S consultancies (‘C50’) are reporting and acting on the climate and ESG imperative, based on their public disclosures and reports. Firms were scored against industry-specific carbon intensity benchmarks, as well as a range of other factors including their alignment to gold standard frameworks and initiatives – such as the SBTi, CDP, TCFD and UN Global Compact – and their net zero and sustainability goals, governance and progress.
Only four of the fifty consultancies achieved the top five-star rating across the Net Zero Journey and ESG Impact Leadership metrics: AECOM, Boston Consulting Group (BCG), Jacobs and WSP. A further twenty firms were identified as ‘innovators’ – including the highest-scoring small (<2k full-time equivalent employees) and medium-sized (2-10k FTEs) consultancies: Anthesis, ERM, ICF, Ricardo and TRC (see figures).
“At Environment Analyst, we believe organisations in need of ESG and carbon advisory support will increasingly turn to those that have the expertise, the experience and have demonstrated leadership to do it first; those who have walked the talk,” says Ross Griffiths, Environment Analyst Managing Director. “We also believe these firms offer investors a credible, low-risk option for their sustainable portfolios, while others still have further to go in their journeys.”
“This industry, just as any other, must guard against greenwashing claims given the myriad of frameworks, standards and pledges being made, as well as ESG data limitations. This report highlights best practices and promotes real advancements being made by the consulting industry’s frontrunners and innovators who are living, breathing, and advising on the sustainable transition.”
The report finds that 62% of the C50 firms have set science-based climate targets under the SBTi. However, only three of the companies have aligned to the higher-ambition SBTi Corporate Net Zero Standard to date, which requires faster and harder absolute emissions reductions.
The total carbon footprint for the C50 is estimated at 11.7 million tCO2e over the last reporting period (based on disclosures for FY21/FY22). This is equivalent to ~4.5 million return flights from London to Cape Town. Environment Analyst’s carbon accounting analysis found that there was a 15% rebound in the industry’s average emissions during the last year thanks to the post-pandemic return to normal working practices, but some firms were able to buck this trend through hardening business travel policies and other decarbonisation initiatives.
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Media enquiries: emily.ridge@environment-analyst.com
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CORRECTIONS: We strive for accuracy, but with deadline pressure, mistakes can happen. If you spot something, we want to know, please email us at: news@environment-analyst.com
We also welcome YOUR NEWS: Send announcements to news@environment-analyst.com
Generating leads is one of the most important skills an agent can master, and it’s often one of the most difficult, especially for newer agents. Some find it difficult to create the relationships needed to generate leads, while others find the task too expensive, because they think they have to purchase lists or spend a ton of money on marketing.
And some agents think lead generation should be quicker and easier than it is.
“Lead generation is not always about getting a ready, willing and able buyer and seller. Lead generation is about building your network,” says Ronnie Glomb, CEO of Your Town Realty in Morristown, N.J. “The toughest part is always keeping your eyes open for an opportunity,” noting that essentially, real estate agents are matchmakers who have to stay vigilant and aware in order to make connections.
Generating leads doesn’t have to be expensive, he adds. He believes it’s about giving value that other real estate professionals aren’t providing, being creative to attract inquisitive potential clients and staying authentic to one’s unique personality.
If your agents have expressed issues with lead generation and don’t want to spend a ton of money, there are still some great ways they can find clients.
Reach Out to Human Resources Departments
“This is one of the really inexpensive ways of getting leads,” Glomb, EPRO, SFR, C2EX, says. You meet with the HR people and bring along your marketing package to show what you can offer new hires or those relocating to that area.
Some companies, especially hospitals, says Glomb, bring in talent from other areas, but don’t necessarily use a relocation company to help that talent settle in. Forming a relationship with the HR department and offering services could lead agents to a lasting relationship as the go-to person for the company or organization to field incoming employees to when they need help securing housing.
Find a Cause, Get Involved
JJ Devore, a former New Yorker who was in the city during 9/11, witnessed the incredible sacrifice and dedication of the first responders who showed up after the terrorist attack. She wanted to give back to those who give their all during a crisis, so in 2016 she joined Homes for Heroes as a real estate affiliate. The organization helps first-responders, military personnel, veterans and teachers achieve the dream of homeownership by offering a nationwide network of affiliate real estate, mortgage and local business specialists to help navigate the home buying process. To become an affiliate, the service professional pays a monthly fee of $189 or an annual fee of $1,500. Devore, AHWD, EPRO, designated managing broker-owner of Green Acres Real Estate, which operates out of four offices in Illinois, was then added to a database and when Homes for Heroes clients in her area need assistance, they’re referred to her. Representing the Homes for Heroes client as their real estate agent is not guaranteed by becoming an affiliate, but Devore says she didn’t get involved with the organization to gain leads. Whether she represented them or not, she wanted to help first-responders find their path to homeownership.
Still, the veterans she’s counseled through Homes for Heroes often refer her to their friends and family, and she does end up with referral clients that way. Devore chooses to pay it forward on any lead that turns into a sale. “Whenever I help a hero buy a house, I donate 30% of my commission check. Twenty-five percent goes back to the hero after closing, in a reward check, and 5% goes to the Hero Foundation,” says Devore,
Even if you don’t volunteer with an organization that offers a built-in affiliate program, being a part of your community in a service-oriented way can help you meet people, learn about what your community needs and help you make connections.
Network, Network, Network
“Networking will always be important,” says Kama Burton, AHWD, C2EX, broker-owner of CMB Realty Services in Moreno, Calif. “Whether it’s social media or face to face, building relationships will never be replaced.” You never know where the relationships you build will bring you.
In many cases, it’s as easy as an active social media presence, says Burton. Stay active on social media by posting pictures, commenting on others’ posts, and staying current with new social media outlets.
Try a Giveaway
Glomb still uses this lead generation tactic by giving away free vacations. Anyone attending one of his company’s open houses and providing their information on the sign-in sheet is entered into a contest that can get them a free two-night, three-day hotel stay, choosing a location from a list of options he provides. He says that, at around $100 per contest, the cost for him is relatively minimal and allows him to build up a roster of people.
He’s able to provide this kind of contest by working with a company that offloads excess hotel and timeshare reservations. “People will come to the open houses just to sign up,” noting that everyone who signs up can be treated as a potential lead.
Use Scripts for Everything
In his early years, if Jeff Glover didn’t have an appointment scheduled each day, he would put on a suit and knock on doors of For Sale By Owner properties or contact those whose contracts had expired with other real estate professionals. His broker taught him to write scripts every day, chant them, and role play until he had them down. “Just sound like you have been doing this a long time, and no one will question your experience,” his broker advised.
At 19 years old, Glover sold 30 properties that way. Today, Glover leads the Glover Agency, a seven-office brokerage in Michigan affiliated with Keller Williams. He also runs a coaching company called Glover U. Scripts got him to where he is today, and he makes those available to other agents through a free download called Jeff’s Prospecting Scripts, which includes scripts for FSBO sellers, expired listings, seller and buyer objections, pricing presentations and more.
Get That Camera (Phone) Out
Video is one of the top-performing media types out there, and every real estate professional can benefit from creating video content to share with prospects and social media followers.
“Video creation is important,” Burton says. “Don’t feel like it always has to be perfect or real estate–related. Find a hobby or a subject you love to talk about, and people will draw to you.” It’s free. If you have a phone and camera, you are set. Later, you might want to look into upgrading to buying some ads to gain a bigger audience, she suggests. “If done right, it will sustain your business and keep you current.” Glover agrees, and believes every real estate agent should have a YouTube channel.
Use longer videos on YouTube and repurpose that same video content for social media, Glover adds. “You can chop up a [longer] video and turn it into three- or four-minute-long videos for Instagram or TikTok.”
Focus on How You Can Help
“Karma is very real if your heart is in the right place,” says Devore. “REALTORS® can never be replaced by technology with their human compassion for others.” She focuses on meeting her clients where they are in the process, and helping them in whatever way they need to secure a home.
“You take their hand and tell them, ‘We will get you there.’” Whether that’s saving a little more for a down payment or working on their credit so they can become mortgage-ready, Devore guides them through the process and ensures her clients have what they need to be successful homeowners. This personalized, service-oriented approach often leads to referrals.
Offer HUD Seminars
Glomb has been certified by the Department of Housing and Urban Development and offers free seminars to teach people how to buy a HUD home for as little as $100 down. He says he packs the house every time. “Everybody that walks into the door is a buyer. That person that comes in might need some credit repair or guidance on saving a little more for closing costs. You get those people ready, willing and able to buy with some education.” He has the seminars in library meeting rooms, which are free to use, keeping costs low.
When it comes to generating leads, many options are available. It’s important, though, not to get too bogged down trying several new approaches at once. Glover says that many real estate professionals get overwhelmed that way. “You need to double down and go all-in on one or two sources instead of spreading yourself too thin,” he adds.
Property consultancy Vail Williams has appointed surveyor Arabella Macrae in response to growing business demand.
Arabella has joined the Thames Valley agency team in its new offices at the heart of Reading town centre.
She was previously at residential and commercial agent Oakley Property in Brighton for two-and-a-half years where she was commercial lettings and sales coordinator.
Her Vail Williams responsibilities include commercial agency, acquisitions and disposals and data analysis.
Key specialisms include ‘flex space’ office disposals, digital marketing and property campaigns throughout the Thames Valley region.
She said: “I was gratified to be appointed by Vail Williams and I am looking to utilise my skill sets and experience in my new role as a Surveyor to ensure clients continue to receive a second-to-none service.”
Arabella, a psychology graduate from the University of the West of England in Bristol, added: “I am relishing being part of such a progressive and professional agency team in an exceptional firm.”
David Thomas, Thames Valley regional managing partner, said: “Arabella is a great addition to our agency team with her diligence, people skills and great communication attributes.
“We welcome her to the agency team as business continues to expand. She has a friendly and happy-to-help approach and I am expecting her to thrive in her new role.”
Vail Williams’ full-service property advice includes commercial agency, investment and development advice, building consultancy, property valuation, planning, lease advisory, property asset management, business rates and occupier consultancy.
As remote work continues to be a viable option for many people, it has opened up opportunities for people to live and work from anywhere without being tied to a physical office location. With this flexibility, many individuals have started to explore new cities and states to call home. But before you make a snap decision and pack up for the road, did you know that some cities and states have created incentive programs for relocation? That’s right – there are a number of cities and states that will pay you to move there. But is it true? And if it is, which states will pay you to live there? And how much do they pay?
The truth is that many states and cities could benefit from a larger tax base. So, to attract more people to their city, local governments are paying remote workers to move to their area. Plus, a few states will even pay you to live there if you accept a local job, so you don’t necessarily have to be a remote worker, either.
Whether you’re moving across the country for a change of scenery or the financial incentives of these programs sound appealing, there may be a few locations on this list that could be the ideal next step for you. Find out more about places that pay you to live there and the incentives they offer.
States that pay you to move there
1. Alaska
If moving closer to the great outdoors sounds appealing to you, nothing beats the rugged, beautiful landscape of Alaska. But with Alaska being so far away, you may wonder: how much does Alaska pay you to live there and why?
Simply put, the state needs people. So much so that Alaskans will receive an annual dividend simply for living there for a full calendar year and plan on becoming a resident indefinitely. To see if your forever home is in Alaska, look up homes for sale in Alaska and Alaska rentals in popular cities like Anchorage and Fairbanks.
But if you’re still on the fence about living in Alaska, consider this: there’s no state tax, so you won’t have to pay any income or sales tax, and the median home price is $352,900, compared to the national median price of $400,528. Plus, you’ll be surrounded by stunning scenery and wildlife and have access to some of the world’s best seafood.
Initiative | Permanent Fund Dividend (PFD) |
Benefits & information | Variable, depending on what the government in Alaska approves each year. 2022’s dividend was $3,284 per person. |
Program requirements | To receive the PFD, you must:
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How to apply | Visit the PFD’s website and apply between January 1-March 31 after you’re eligible. |
2. Vermont
If you currently work remotely or want to work for the state of Vermont, you may want to put the Green Mountain State at the top of your list. As one of the smallest states by population, with just over 625,000 residents, the state is enticing young remote workers to move there by offering two remote worker grants with awards up to $7,500. While this attractive relocation incentive won’t cover your moving expenses, it’s worth noting that the median sales price of homes in Vermont is $373,000, lower than the national median of $428,379.
But if you plan on visiting the home state of Ben & Jerry’s before committing, there are plenty of short-term rentals in Vermont to consider. With its beautiful outdoor space and affordable housing, remote work in Vermont is a great option.
Initiative | New Relocating Worker Grant |
Benefits & information | Up to $7,500 |
Program requirements | To qualify for the New Relocating Worker Grant, you’ll have to fill a qualified position with a state employer. |
How to apply | Visit Think Vermont’s Relocation Incentives page |
Initiative | New Remote Worker Grant |
Benefits & information | Up to $7,500 |
Program requirements | To qualify for the New Remote Worker Grant, you have to work remotely with a company located outside of Vermont |
How to apply | Visit Think Vermont’s Relocation Incentives page |
3. West Virginia
Famous for more than just “country roads,” West Virginia is offering one of the most lucrative programs to attract new residents to the state. This West Virginia moving incentive is called Ascend West Virginia, and they’re currently accepting applications from people who want to get paid to move to West Virginia, specifically The Greenbrier Valley, Morgantown, and East Panhandle communities.
In addition to a huge chunk of change, new transplants can also receive outdoor recreational equipment along with other benefits to sweeten the pot. Housing is also very affordable even without receiving the money to move there, with the median home sale price in West Virginia 31% below the national median at $291,600.
This program has already started to generate some buzz so get a head start on some house or apartment hunting by scoping out West Virginia rentals and homes for sale in West Virginia before applications fill up.
Initiative | Ascend West Virginia |
Benefits & information | If you qualify for Ascend West Virginia, you can expect to receive up to $12,000 cash, plus other benefits such as free outdoor recreational equipment, professional development opportunities, and co-working space.
The package offered with Ascend West Virginia is valued at $20,000 total. |
Program requirements | Like other programs, you’ll have to meet some requirements to apply for Ascend WV:
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How to apply | Check out https://ascendwv.com/ |
4. Arkansas – Northwest Arkansas
Arkansas’ moving incentive program is set to attract top talent to move to the region, and they’ll even throw in a mountain or road bike to explore the area’s vast number of outdoor spaces. Plus, with the average median home price of $251,400 and a low cost of living, it’s no wonder it’s known as one of the best places to live in America.
All this to say that if calling Northwest Arkansas your new home state has a nice ring to it, check out homes for sale in Arkansas or apartments in Arkansas to see if your next dream home is available.
Initiative | Life Works Here Initiative in Northwest Arkansas |
Benefits & information | $10,000 in cash or cryptocurrency
The Life Works Here Initiative also offers support in finding community, housing, and jobs. |
Program requirements | To qualify for the Life Works Here Initiative, you’ll have to meet a few requirements:
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How to apply | Visit https://findingnwa.com/incentive/ |
Cities that pay you to move there
5. Tulsa, OK
Oklahoma is paying to relocate remote workers through a program called Tulsa Remote. With a lower cost of living, a thriving remote community, and countless opportunities to explore the city, it’s no wonder why Tulsa is attracting a steady stream of new residents. And if you’re looking to buy a house in Tulsa, it’s worth noting that the median home sale price in Tulsa is $220,000 – *58% below the national median price. Plus, you’ll receive cash and other benefits for your Oklahoma relocation.
But if you’re not ready to make the leap to homeownership, no worries. Consider renting an apartment in Tulsa or checking out houses for rent to get a feel for what it’s like to live in Tulsa before putting down roots.
Initiative | Tulsa Remote |
Benefits & information | $10,000 relocation incentive
You’ll receive $2,500 up front and the rest of the $10,000 within your first year after moving to Tulsa. Tulsa Remote stipend recipients also receive a one-year membership at a city co-working site and housing and community resources. |
Program requirements | To qualify for Tulsa Remote, you have to meet a few requirements:
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How to apply | Visit Tulsa Remote’s website |
6. Topeka, KS
Known for its family-friendly atmosphere, moving to Topeka, KS, could be a decision that pays off big time. The Choose Topeka Initiative offers cash funds to remote workers moving from out of state for a “on site” position, as well as to remote workers as long as their employer is located outside of Shawnee County.
New applicants with “on site” positions, where your employer is a participant in a relocation incentive and located in Shawnee County, are eligible to receive up to $10,000 for renting and up to $15,000 for buying a home.
Remote workers, where your employer is located outside of Shawnee County, can receive up to $5,000 for rent in the first year and up to $10,000 in funds towards a home purchase.
There’s also no denying the savings that come with living in Topeka compared to other major cities. The median home price in Topeka is $147,000, well below the national median sales price, and the city boasts a 92% lower cost of living compared to the national average. So if you’re wondering how much home you can afford on your budget, this is too good of a deal to pass up.
Ready to make the move? Start your home search by looking up apartments for rent in Topeka, as well as homes for sale in Topeka.
7. Lincoln, KS
Take your dream home from blueprint to construction by making the move to Lincoln. Instead of cash incentives, the city is taking a unique approach to attract new residents by offering free land to those looking to put down roots. Each lot ranges from 14,000 to 35,000 square feet and is located within a fully decked-out residential development within the city limits, but keep in mind that you’ll bear the costs associated with building a new home.
But if building a home isn’t for you, Lincoln is made even more attractive by its affordable housing market. The median sales price for homes for sale in Lincoln is even lower than Topeka’s at $79k.
Initiative | Free Home Site Program |
Benefits & information | Variable, plots of land range from 14,000-35,000 square feet |
Program requirements | While the Free Home Site Program doesn’t offer a stipend, they do offer free tracts of land.
In order to qualify, you must be an individual or family relocating to or flipping a home in Lincoln, KS. |
How to apply | Visit Lincoln Housing to apply |
8. Newton, IA
The city of Newton is attracting new residents to settle into their community for the long haul with a major housing initiative. With the Get to Know Newton program, you’ll receive a stipend amount based on the value of the home you buy. So, if you pay $190,000* or more for a home, you’ll receive a $10,000 cash incentive.
Choosing Newton as your home also means more affordable housing. The median home price for homes for sale in Newton is $133,500 – below the national median. But if you’re looking to scope out the city before making your decision, there are plenty of short-term rentals in Newton to consider.
Initiative | Get to Know Newton |
Benefits & information | Up to $10,000, plus extras if you qualify |
Program requirements | In order to qualify for Get to Know Newton, you must purchase property in Newton, Iowa, which is just outside Des Moines. |
How to apply | Visit https://newtongov.org/ |
9. The Shoals – Florence, Muscle Shoals, Sheffield, and Tuscumbia, AL
If you’re a remote worker looking for a change of scenery, vibrant food scene, outdoor activities, and more, consider The Shoals area in Alabama. The Shoals is made up of four different cities: Florence, Muscle Shoals, Sheffield, and Tuscumbia, and all four are accepting applications for new residents interested in participating in the Remote Shoals program.
Can’t part with the hustle and bustle of urban life? No worries. The Shoals is only a two-hour drive from Birmingham, Nashville, and Memphis, and an hour flight to Atlanta via Boutique Airlines, giving you easy access to major cities.
With low property taxes and the typical home in Alabama selling for $270,300, the overall cost of living in these cities is significantly lower than other similarly sized metro areas in the state. But if you’re having trouble picking, you can also consider renting an apartment in Florence, Muscle Shoals, Sheffield, or Tuscumbia if you want to test drive one of these cities to find the right fit.
Initiative | Remote Shoals |
Benefits & information | $10,000
You’ll receive 25% of the stipend before your move, another 25% six months after you relocate, and the remaining 50% one year after your move. |
Program requirements | To qualify for Remote Shoals, you must:
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How to apply | Visit https://remoteshoals.com/ |
10. Hamilton, OH
Hamilton has a great program to offer if you’re one of the many college graduates seeking remote work out of state. With student loans being the biggest deterrent to growth for college graduates, the city is offering to pay down debts to boost its college-educated workforce.
The affordable housing market is also one of the perks of moving to the city. The median sale price for homes in Hamilton comes in at $160,000, but if you want to see what else the city has to offer before moving there, you can always rent an apartment in Hamilton to see if it’s the right fit for you.
Initiative | Talent Attraction Program (TAP) |
Benefits & information | If your application to TAP is accepted, you’ll receive $400 per month up to $15,000 total. That’s almost three years’ worth of monthly payments. |
Program requirements | Requirements for TAP are unique. To qualify, you must:
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How to apply | Check out TAP’s website |
Final thoughts
With the option to work remotely still a possibility for many people, many states are upping the game and offering enticing financial incentives for people looking to relocate. If you’re a remote worker moving out of state or looking for a fresh start and new job, you may find that moving to one of these places could be a decision that pays off – literally. And with the lower cost of living and median home prices in many of these cities, you’ll likely experience many more economic benefits in addition to the money you receive for moving.
Disclaimer: Program details as of April 17, 2023. This article is for informational purposes only. Redfin does not endorse any of the programs mentioned. Redfin strongly recommends that consumers make informed decisions, and independently verify a state, city, or financial offering will meet their needs. Median home sale price data from the Redfin Data Center during April 17, 2023.
Clearwater, FL, is an iconic Gulf Coast city. This Floridian city is known for many things, including its clear blue waters and miles of white beaches.
As more people move to Clearwater, it’s important to keep in mind that the median home sale price is $375,000, and the average sale price per square foot is $255. For renters, the average rent price for a 2-bedroom apartment in Clearwater is $2,121.
If those numbers are out of your budget, don’t worry. We’ve got options to help you find a home or apartment. We’ve rounded up a list of the 10 best affordable suburbs of Clearwater, FL, to consider living in – and they’re all under a 35-minute drive from the city. That way you can reside near the city and all its cool activities without paying the premium price of living in Clearwater.
#1: Holiday
Median home price: $251,895
Average sale price per square foot: $176
Average rent for a 2-bedroom apartment: $1,540
Driving distance from Clearwater: 35 minutes
Holiday, FL homes for sale
Holiday, FL apartments for rent
With a median home sale price of $251,895, Holiday claims the first spot on our list of affordable Clearwater suburbs. About a 35-minute drive away from downtown Clearwater, Holiday is home to roughly 24,900 residents. If you’re considering moving to this area make sure to check out everything that makes this suburb unique.
#2: Lealman
Median home price: $277,000
Average sale price per square foot: $240
Driving distance from Clearwater: 25 minutes
Lealman, FL homes for sale
Lealman, FL apartments for rent
Just a little more expensive than Holiday is Lealman. Just about 25 minutes from Clearwater, you can relax on Clearwater Beach and explore Pier 60 in just a quick drive. When living in this suburb of 21,200 people, you can spend time exploring the charming downtown.
#3: Pinellas Park
Median home price: $308,000
Average sale price per square foot: $228
Driving distance from Clearwater: 25 minutes
Pinellas Park, FL homes for sale
Pinellas Park, FL apartments for rent
Taking the third spot is Pinellas Park. Just 25 minutes outside of Clearwater, you’ll find the home prices are much less expensive. Even with a population of about 53,100, there are plenty of cool areas to explore in Pinellas Park. Make sure to explore Sawgrass Lake Park, visit the Pinellas Park Performing Arts Center, and play a round of golf at the Mainlands Golf Club if you move to the third most affordable suburb.
#4: Kenneth City
Median home price: $314,950
Average sale price per square foot: $243
Driving distance from Clearwater: 30 minutes
Kenneth City, FL homes for sale
Kenneth City, FL apartments for rent
A little more expensive than Pinellas Park is Kenneth City, the next suburb on our list. There are several top attractions you may want to check out in this suburb of Clearwater, FL.
#5: South Highpoint
Median home price: $318,750
Average sale price per square foot: $226
Driving distance from Clearwater: 20 minutes
South Highpoint, FL homes for sale
South Highpoint, FL apartments for rent
20 minutes away from downtown Clearwater is South Highpoint, another great suburb to consider moving to. With 5,000 residents, moving to this affordable suburb can keep you close enough to Clearwater, without paying the premium for a home there. Living in South Highpoint, you can and have easy access to all the attractions throughout the city of Clearwater.
#6: Town ‘n’ Country
Median home price: $340,000
Average sale price per square foot: $242
Driving distance from Clearwater: 35 minutes
Town ‘n’ Country, FL homes for sale
Town ‘n’ Country, FL apartments for rent
A recognizable Clearwater suburb is Town ‘n’ Country, where the median home sale price is about $30K less than in Clearwater. Town ‘n’ Country has about 86,000 residents and is a great suburb to consider renting or buying a house in. You’ll find there are lots of activities to do in this suburb. For example, you can visit Town N Country Nature Preserve, hike the Channel Park Trailhead, and take in the water views, among many other local favorites.
#7: Largo
Median home price: $350,000
Average sale price per square foot: $274
Driving distance from Clearwater: 15 minutes
Largo, FL homes for sale
Largo, FL apartments for rent
Claiming the seventh spot on our list of affordable suburbs of Clearwater, FL, is Largo, which is almost a 15-minute drive into the city center. With a population of roughly 82,500, Largo is a great area to live in that’s not nearly as big as Clearwater. Don’t miss out on exploring one of Largo’s many nature preserves and visit the Florida Botanical Gardens to look at the gorgeous flowers once living here.
#8: Seminole
Median home price: $359,900
Average sale price per square foot: $264
Driving distance from Clearwater: 25 minutes
Seminole, FL homes for sale
Seminole, FL apartments for rent
If you’ve lived in Clearwater for a while, chances are you know of Seminole. About 19,400 people reside in Seminole, so you’ll have a fraction of Clearwater’s population while remaining only 25 minutes from the city. Be sure to explore Lake Seminole Park and take in views or spend the day Blossom Lake Park once you move to Seminole.
#9: Palm Harbor
Median home price: $375,000
Average sale price per square foot: $272
Driving distance from Clearwater: 20 minutes
Palm Harbor, FL homes for sale
Palm Harbor, FL apartments for rent
Moving to Palm Harbor will give you access to downtown Clearwater in close to 20 minutes – as long as you don’t find yourself in traffic. Just about 61,400 people live in this suburb, but there’s plenty of activities to do in Palm Harbor.
#10: Oldsmar
Median home price: $399,900
Average sale price per square foot: $253
Driving distance from Clearwater: 30 minutes
Oldsmar, FL homes for sale
Oldsmar, FL apartments for rent
Claiming the 10th spot on our list of affordable suburbs of Clearwater, FL, is Oldsmar. Without traffic, you’ll find yourself in Clearwater in roughly 30 minutes. This suburb has a population of 14,900 and you can explore the trails at Sheffield Park, visit Empower Adventures Tampa Bay, and shop at the Oldsmar Flea Market. You’ll always find plenty to do on an afternoon or weekend while living in Oldsmar.
Methodology: Affordability is based on whether a suburb’s median home sale price or average sale price per square foot is less than Clearwater and under a 35-minute drive from downtown Clearwater. Median home sale price data from the Redfin Data Center during March 2023. Average rental data from Rent.com March 2023. Population data sourced from the United States Census Bureau.