Here's your holiday gift guide for the home

Not sure what to get everyone on your list this year? You likely arent alone. After such a defining period, where most of us have ended up spending more time than ever at home, what could be more appreciated and useful right now than gifts for our living spaces? Whether you need to buy something meaningful to give family youre unable to visit this year, a unique piece of art, something luxurious to a new home-owner, or design-forward items for the home-chef, here are the best home and decor gifts to give and receive in 2020.

Rifle Paper Co Wireless Charger

Wireless not styleless

Everyone on your list needs to charge their smartphone, so why not do it in style?The Rifle Paper Co Wireless Chargerlooks chic on a nightstand, desk, or side table. It can easily be mistaken for a ring dish rather than a functional piece of technology. Available in two of the brand's beautiful print designs, Wildflowers and Garden Party Bluethis device is compatible with most smartphones and Airpods.

Dose Of Roses Burgundy Rose Bear

Cute but not hugable

This adorablycharming bearfrom Dose of Roses isnt for cuddling. Fourteen inches high, it looks beautiful on a shelf, bookcase, or even as a table centerpiece. Made from eternity roses, it lasts a lifetime, which is far better than a typical bouquet. Not into burgundy? Bears are also available in classic red, blue, and pink colors.

Paynes Gray Terrazzo Wine Cooler

Toast to terrazzo

For someone who appreciates wine and decor equally, its impossible to go wrong with theTerrazzo Wine Coolerfrom Paynes Gray. This useful accessory is very much on-trend right now and a great accent for a bar cart or simply to decorate the table during meals and celebrations. Not into wine? Terrazzo trays and platters as well as a picture frame are also for sale.

MOMA Store Color Accent Red Wine Glasses Set

Cheers to the holidays

If youre giving someone a bottle of wine for the holidays, why not level up your generosity and include a set ofMOMA Store Color Accent Red Wine Glasses? Designed by Matteo Monni, these glasses are handmade from borosilicate glass with colored accents that wont fade over time. Choose from two color schemes: Green/Yellow and Blue/Red.

Adorn Decor Jemma Charcuterie Board

Handmade and thoughtful

What good is a glass of wine without acharcuterie board? With a simple but beautiful aesthetic, the Jemma Charcuterie Board is handcrafted from olive wood. It can be used for serving as well as for decorative purposes, leaning against a kitchen backsplash as a an accent piece. Its an easy choice for a new homeowner or home chef who is likely to make use of this gift for years to come.

The Brooklyn Teacup Serving Stands

The Brooklyn Teacup's stands with Mini Melanie Dessert

If youve ever inherited a set of China, dont plan on using it, and dont know what to do, send it toThe Brooklyn Teacupby December 15th for Christmas delivery. They can upcycle old dishes into tiered serving pieces and ring holders. Then send each member of your family something special.

Or if you know someone who appreciates China or antiques, the brand already has a variety of pre-made items created from classic and rare patterns.

Elizabeth Sutton Fine Art Prints

All is calm, all is bright with these prints.

Artist Elizabeth Sutton launched a collection offine art printsjust in time for the holidays. Her whimsical style and vibrant use of color is a welcome addition to any room in the home. Several sizes, designs, and framing options are available. Any budding or experienced collector will appreciate the quality and style of this talented artists highly coveted work.

Betsy Enzensberger x ArtSugar Popsicle Sculptures

Betsy Enzensberger x ArtSugar Popsicle Sculptures make a sweet gift

If youre looking to give someone a one of a kind piece of art this holiday, look no further than Betsy EnzensbergersPopsicle Sculpturesfor ArtSugar. Made of ink, resin, and wood, each piece is unique with a colorful pop and garnishes housed in a stemless wineglass. Whether you prefer something bright pink to display all year long or perhaps a more classic holiday design, the difficult part is choosing which one.

Swirl Boutique Aura Cozy Candle

Create an instant ambiance of cozy

Its impossible to go wrong with a candle. Everyone appreciates them and theyre also worth stocking up on as an ideal last-minute gift for the person you (almost) forgot. TheAura Cozy Candlefrom Swirl Boutique is the perfect addition to any home. With a gourmand scent featuring notes of gingerbread, cinnamon, ginger, and cardamom, the warm vessel even has a bamboo top, which can be used to cover the candle or re-purpose as a coaster. With a 40-hour burn time, home can smell like the holidays all season long.

Tuxton Fry Pan Skillets

Cook in style

Were all cooking a lot more at home this year, so why not give the gift of better meals with a set offrying pan skilletsfrom Tuxton? This non-stick cookware is coated in ceramic and chemical-free to support a healthy lifestyle. Better yet, its truly design-forward with several colors available including Cobalt Blue, Blush Pink, Cayenne Red, Saffron Yellow, and Cilantro Green in addition to the classic black.

These pans add a decorative element to everyday cooking and particularly appeal to someone who stores their pans out on hooks in the kitchen or likes to post on Instagram. And unlike most nonstick cookware, this set is dishwasher safe.

Dyson Lightcycle Morph

Modern, smart, and chic.

Dyson is one of those brands that takes innovation to a new level through design. The modernLightcycle Morphis no exception. It is an essential lamp for anyone working from home, particularly in a room that doesnt have an abundance of natural light exposure.

This smart device connects through an app and tracks the local time and temperature to adjust brightness accordingly. It also has sensors that adjust when you leave the room, saving energy. With a variety of modes for different tasks, this also raises the bar for what smart lighting can be.

August & Leo 100% Silk 3-Piece Gift Set

A perfect gift for everyone

Looking for a thoughtful gift that will be appreciated equally by people youre close to like a best friend just as much someone you dont know as well? Designed by Giuliana Rancic and interior designer Lonni Paul, thisgift setfrom August & Leo is exactly what youre looking for. Packaged perfectly for gifting, it features a silk pillowcase (which is a game-changer for skin and hair) with a matching scrunchie and sleep mask. Its made in a variety of colors including White, Wine, Blue, and Mulberry.

Riley Baratta Percale Bundle

This bedding is an everyday luxury

Its impossible to find a more useful gift than luxury bedding. TheBaratta Percale Bundlefrom Riley has a minimalist, yet interesting design that compliments any style room from traditional to contemporary and even modern. Made from premium long-staple cotton percale, each set has a duvet cover, two shams, two pillowcases a fitted sheet, and a flat sheet. Choose from True Navy, Slate, and White.

Anaya Home Pink Tie Dye Throw Blanket

Tie dye is going from fashion to home

Tie-dye couldnt have been more popular this year for fashion and now the look is transitioning to home design. Made of 100 percent cotton, this boho-style throwadds a perfect pop of color to a sofa or bed with minimal effort. Who cant use an extra throw blanket?

FluffCo Pillows

Like clouds

If you cant go to a hotel this holiday season,FluffCopillows are the next best thing. Theyre made in the same factory as the pillows youll find at 5 Star hotels but cost approximately half the price. Not only are they incredibly comfortable, they automatically make your bed looks more luxurious. Choose from firm or soft pillows in feather down as well as vegan down alternative

Herman Miller Aeron Chair

This chair is a modern classic

Having a more comfortable chair in your home office can instantly boost productivity. TheAeron Chairfrom Herman Miller has a sleek modern design integrated with PostureFit SL technology to maximize ergonomics and improve posture. Several features are customizable including size, arm pad, tilt, back support, and color. With a 12-year warranty, this gift will be appreciated for years to come.

Mackenzie Childs Courtly Check Enamel Pet Dish

Kitty and pup approved.

Dont forget the furriest members of the family. TheMackenzie Childs Courtly Check Enamel Pet Dishfeatures the brands signature check design. Its a thoughtful gift to give someone with a more traditional to contemporary style aesthetic. Made of ceramic, but far more durable than the average pet dish, it has a heavy gauge steel underbody which helps it withstand the appetites of even the hungriest creatures.

Crate And Barrel 12 Days Of Christmas Appetizer Plates With Stand

Great for hosts or yourself

Start a new tradition with these cheerfulappetizer platesfrom Crate and Barrel. Equally chic and decorative, its the ideal gift or receive in 2020 because it prevents everyone from eating off the same platter or accidentally taking from another person's dish. The stand is a convenient bonus.

Knackshops Salad Gift Set

Knack Salad Course Gift Box

Knack is an excellent source for gift boxes across a variety of categories from the kitchen to spa and entertaining with go-to options that will make everyone on your list smile.

The Salad Courseis no exception. It has a large lemon print salad bowl as well two smaller ones, a matching tea towel, and bottles of oil and vinegar. Its a thoughtful present to send that person you wish you could see right now. But still, theyll think of you every time they use these bowls.

Spark Grills

A cream-colored Spark Grill

Most appliances dont exactly win points for design, but notSpark Grills. Innovative in every way, this charcoal and wood grill has the precision control of a gas grill for the best flavor possible. Better yet, they have a design-forward aesthetic with a variety of colors available including aqua, cream, and navy as well as black.

Read more:
The Best Home And Decor Holiday Gifts of 2020 - Forbes

SANTA ANA, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--First American Financial Corporation (NYSE: FAF), a leading global provider of title insurance, settlement services and risk solutions for real estate transactions, today released the September 2020 First American Real House Price Index (RHPI). The RHPI measures the price changes of single-family properties throughout the U.S. adjusted for the impact of income and interest rate changes on consumer house-buying power over time at national, state and metropolitan area levels. Because the RHPI adjusts for house-buying power, it also serves as a measure of housing affordability.

Chief Economist Analysis: Affordability Declines Nationally for Second Straight Month

Affordability declined month over month in September for the second month in a row, even as two of the three key drivers of the Real House Price Index (RHPI), household income and mortgage rates, swung in favor of increased affordability, said Mark Fleming, chief economist at First American. The 30-year, fixed-rate mortgage fell by 0.05 percentage points and household income increased 0.2 percent compared with August 2020. Rising household income and declining mortgage rates each boost consumer house-buying power.

However, rising house-buying power drives greater demand, and surging demand in a supply-constrained market fuels faster nominal house price appreciation. This is exactly what occurred in September, as nominal house prices, the third component of the RHPI, appreciated at its fastest monthly pace since 2013, said Fleming. The rapid house price appreciation was enough to overcome the benefit of increased house-buying power. But, real estate is local and house-buying power and nominal house price gains vary by city, so the national perspective may not tell us much about whats happening to affordability where you live.

The Five Cities Where Affordability Declined the Most

Declining mortgage rates increase affordability equally in each market as mortgage rates are generally the same across the country. However, household income levels and nominal house prices vary by market, so the affordability dynamic varies as well, said Fleming. Of the 50 markets we track, affordability declined in 41 of them month over month. The five markets with the highest month-over-month decline in affordability were:

Affordability Story Differs Based on Local Dynamics

In September, Kansas City, Mo. had the greatest month-over-month decrease in affordability, mostly due to of the 1.7 percent monthly decline in household income, the largest household income decline relative to the other four markets, said Fleming. Las Vegas and Philadelphia both had faster nominal house price appreciation than Kansas City, but their household incomes did not decline by nearly as much.

Finally, the remaining cities on the list, Pittsburgh and Portland, demonstrate the intricate dance between house-buying power and nominal house price appreciation. Pittsburgh and Portland both experienced a 1.6 percent decline in affordability in September, but for different reasons, said Fleming. Pittsburghs decline in household income was marginal and not enough to offset the affordability boost from lower mortgage rates, so house-buying power improved in the steel city. Yet, Pittsburghs nominal house price appreciation was the fastest of the five cities, outpacing house-buying power, so affordability waned. While Portlands nominal house price appreciation was slower than Pittsburgh, house-buying power declined significantly more due to falling household income, resulting in the same decline in affordability as Pittsburgh.

What Will Drive Housing Affordability in 2021?

The good news is that on a year-over-year basis affordability declined in only 13 of the top 50 markets, and housing remains 5 percent more affordable nationally than a year ago. However, the list of markets with declining affordability on an annual and monthly basis has swelled in recent months, said Fleming. The growing number of markets where affordability is declining demonstrates the dynamic we expected to see the strong growth in house-buying power in 2020 has boosted demand in a historically supply-constrained market, putting tremendous upward pressure on nominal house price appreciation.

Faster nominal house price appreciation can erode, or even eliminate, the boost in affordability from lower mortgage rates, especially if household income growth doesnt keep up, said Fleming. With mortgage rates expected to remain low in 2021 and supply expected to remain constrained, affordability trends will be closely tied to shifts in household income in the months ahead.

September 2020 Real House Price Index

September 2020 Real House Price State Highlights

September 2020 Real House Price Local Market Highlights

Next Release

The next release of the First American Real House Price Index will take place the week of December 28, 2020 for October 2020 data.

Sources

Methodology

The methodology statement for the First American Real House Price Index is available at http://www.firstam.com/economics/real-house-price-index.

Disclaimer

Opinions, estimates, forecasts and other views contained in this page are those of First Americans Chief Economist, do not necessarily represent the views of First American or its management, should not be construed as indicating First Americans business prospects or expected results, and are subject to change without notice. Although the First American Economics team attempts to provide reliable, useful information, it does not guarantee that the information is accurate, current or suitable for any particular purpose. 2020 by First American. Information from this page may be used with proper attribution.

About First American

First American Financial Corporation (NYSE: FAF) is a leading provider of title insurance, settlement services and risk solutions for real estate transactions that traces its heritage back to 1889. First American also provides title plant management services; title and other real property records and images; valuation products and services; home warranty products; property and casualty insurance; banking, trust and wealth management services; and other related products and services. With total revenue of $6.2 billion in 2019, the company offers its products and services directly and through its agents throughout the United States and abroad. In 2020, First American was named to the Fortune 100 Best Companies to Work For list for the fifth consecutive year. More information about the company can be found at http://www.firstam.com.

Excerpt from:
Top Five Cities Where Affordability Declined the Most, According to First American Real House Price Index - Business Wire

We can get product and service warranties on just about anything we buy these days. So, why not on a house? Whether you are selling a home, renting it out, or buying one, a home is one of the largest investments anyone can make. With a home warranty plan, you can help preserve that investment. The best home warranty providers offer 24/7 customer support and a wide range of plan coverage. Check out reviews of AFC Home Club to help narrow down your search. If youre still unsure why a home warranty plan is worth the investment, continue reading to learn more about its advantages.

The same goes for many renters who may not have the extra funds for such expenditures. A home warranty is undeniably a good incentive for you as a seller to offer. You can give your potential buyers or tenants peace of mind since they dont have to worry about the integrity of the appliances, systems, and other materials covered by the warranty plan.

A home warranty plan can help you anticipate these out-of-pocket expenditures. Instead of wild-guessing how much the system or appliance breakdown will cost, youll now have a better idea of what expenses to anticipate. This will help you with household budget planning. Some companies offer a one-time annual payment, while others provide an option of dividing the cost, allowing you to pay monthly. You will also know the repair or replacement amount in advance when the service contractor arrives at your home to check the covered problem and fix it.

It doesnt matter if you own a home and plan to sell it soon or if youre looking to buy a new one. A home warranty plan can greatly benefit you. Its an excellent complement to a standard homeowners insurance. While both give you more financial control, the two are separate entities. Its important to understand that a home warranty is not a substitute for home insurance. A home warranty plan will protect your homes major systems and appliances as they age. It lets you save money when your dishwasher or water heater suddenly stops working. These kinds of repair and replacement will not be covered by standard home insurance. The insurance policy will protect you from unforeseen events, such as home invasion or fire damage.

Read this article:
Advantages of a Home Warranty - The Union Journal

If you own a home, you know a house is a big commitment. You have a commitment to your town, your neighbors, and yourself to keep your property presentable. You likely have a commitment to the bank as well. When you rented, your landlord was responsible for this mess of responsibilities. As a homeowner, you inherit this mess as well as the house. Homeowners are expected to maintain the lawn, deal with pests, regularly maintain and repair the property, and pay for it.

Lawns vary as much as houses. The amount of work you do to your yard depends on the size of the lawn and whether or not you have extensive landscaping duties. All yards require regular cutting, weed pulling, and litter control. Some yards are filled with shrubs, trees, and maybe a garden that also needs maintenance. Gutters need cleaned to avoid roof damage. You owe it to your community (and your house) to keep up with your lawn and any plant life that thrives (or dies) in your yard.

No one wants pests wandering around their homes. Some are just an annoyance, and others wreak havoc to the property itself. Termites, for instance, eat away at the structural wood of the house. If they are allowed to continue, termites can go so far as to eat away at your furniture. Rodents are notorious for chewing on insulation around electrical wiring, thereby increasing the likelihood of a fire. Homeowners must pay for everything to remove the pests and repair the damage they did while they were visiting. Regularly inspect your home for pests, so you know the moment they move in.

Properties decrease in value when they are ignored and neglected. No matter the size of your property, every homeowner should do routine maintenance. Appliances like refrigerators, clothes washers, and water heaters are your responsibility. You will have to replace furnace filters, air conditioner filters, and circuit breakers. You must pay to resolve plumbing issues, and you'll probably need to pay to empty your septic tank on occasion. You'll also need to monitor your home for water damage, weather damage, and a whole host of safety hazards like a fire. You must maintain your property to keep it valuable, but you must also keep up with it to keep it standing.

You should have a fund ready to be put to good use. First of all, you'll have to pay your taxes. You might also have mortgage payments, and you'll definitely have to pay for any home repairs. Home maintenance and home repair can be costly, but cost is less when you take care of it right away. You can remove some of the burden when you make payments to a warranty provider. Home warranty companies in Missouri, Montana, Mississippi, Maine, and every state in between help you handle home repair costs. You must have a fund set aside to pay for your home, whatever that entails.

Owning your home is a big commitment. Homeowners must maintain the property. There's the lawn, extermination of pests, home maintenance, home repairs, taxes, and mortgage payments. Warranty providers can help remove some of the burdens, but it's ultimately your responsibility. You should know what to expect from owning your home and be willing to take on the challenge.

Read more:
Blog: Your Responsibilities as a Homeowner (10/21/20) - Southeast Missourian

Nestled in an idyllic serene setting in the gated community of Falling Waters this stunning Ranch boasts 4 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms, & open floor plan perfect for day to day living & entertaining. This custom home features a grand entrance, formal dining, cathedral ceilings, 8ft doors, TONS of natural lighting, backyard oasis w/covered porch, inground pool, private deck, & more. This carefully & thoughtfully crafted home sparing no expense is sure to help you decide, this is the one! The eat-in kitchen features beautiful soft close cabinetry, a custom backsplash, granite counter tops, & built-in SS appliances. Off the kitchen rests the hearth room, where you will enjoy the most amazing views while relaxing by the fireplace. Retreat to the master bedroom, w/a beautiful executive style en-suite bath, & private access to porch. The finished basement includes a study, 4th bedroom, bath, wet bar, & amazing recreational space. 2x6 wall construction, Andersen Windows, 3 zone HVAC, & irrigation.

View Listing

See more here:
30 of the Most Expensive Homes for Sale in Northwest Indiana - nwitimes.com

Picking a new mattress can feel confusing, overwhelming, and downright expensive. But, its still important to make a great decision that suits your individual needs as a sleeper and its surprisingly possible to do so on a budget.

Many mattress companies offer mattresses with a luxurious feel at an affordable price point. We researched the best on the market to help you find an amazing mattress at an amazing price.

Pricing for mattresses depends on what size youre looking for. We based our price comparisons on a standard queen size mattress.

The Nectar Memory Foam mattress packs in a bunch of luxury features at a great price, such as a quilted cover made from super soft and sustainable Tencel fibers, as well as a gel memory foam layer to promote airflow and keep you cool. Its great for nearly every sleep position since the gel memory foam provides close body contouring and great pressure relief. The all foam construction is also good for motion isolation, so you wont get woken up by a partner or pet.

Not to mention, Nectar has an industry-leading 365-day trial period and a lifetime warranty, a huge perk when selecting a new mattress.

Buy the Nectar Memory Foam Mattress online.

A 2015 study found that medium-firm mattresses can help reduce back pain and promote sleep comfort. Most mattress companies call their medium-firm mattresses luxury firm or say they fall between a 5 to 7 on a 10-point firmness scale. The Saatva Classic Mattress has a luxury firm option, making it a good choice for those with back pain.

Even better, Saatva mattresses are specifically designed for a pain-free sleep, and this hybrid mattress is even approved by the Congress of Chiropractic State Associations. It has a unique memory foam layer designed to relieve lumbar tension. Reviewers with back pain and arthritis say this mattress balances softness and support.

This mattress is one of the more expensive options on our list likely due to the hybrid construction and different materials used. Even so, its still priced lower than many luxury hybrids on the market.

Buy the Saatva Classic Mattress online.

Side sleepers need a balance of pressure relief and support for their ideal mattress. Both the Helix Midnight and Midnight Luxe are made specifically with side sleepers in mind and have targeted support for the hips, shoulders, and neck.

The top memory foam layer relieves pressure and keeps your spine aligned, while the middle wrapped coil layer is designed to cradle and support your body. The result is an award-winning, but still affordable mattress.

Buy the Helix Midnight online.

Casper is a leader in the affordable bed-in-a-box marketplace, and their entry-level mattress is a simple, yet versatile, option. The top layer of foam in the Casper Element is perforated, promoting airflow to reduce heat. The second layer is a dense base to provide support.

Reviewers rave about the unbeatable price and smart packaging of the Casper Element, as well as the great motion isolation. But, this mattress may be too soft for stomach sleepers, who might feel extra pressure in their hips and lower back when sinking into a softer mattress.

Buy the Casper Element Mattress online.

The Cocoon Chill is a bed-in-a-box option from Sealy, one of the oldest and most reputable mattress brands. Its unique stretch-knit cover is designed to respond to temperature changes, dissipating heat when your body feels hot and retaining heat when it feels cool. This three-layered mattress adapts to your body and sleeping style while still bouncing back and allowing movement.

The medium-soft option is best for combination or side sleepers, while the extra-firm option is best for back sleepers. Even though this mattress gets great reviews, some reviewers complain that this mattress doesnt have the best edge support which is how supported a mattress feels when you sit on or lie near the edge of it.

Buy the Cocoon by Sealy Chill Mattress online.

Latex mattresses are known for their bounce and responsiveness, conforming to your bodys contours while also snapping back to shape when you roll over or get up. They can also be great for reducing pain: A 2017 study showed that latex mattresses can be better than foam mattresses at reducing pressure on the torso and backside.

The Elements Latex has impressive features at a stellar price point for a latex mattress. It comes in two thicknesses and three firmness options, all made with OEKO-TEX class 1 certified Talalay latex over a dense foam base. Reviewers liked this alternative to an all foam mattress for its firmness and gentle bounce.

Keep in mind that this mattress does not have an inner-spring system, so some people with higher body weight may not get the support they need.

Buy the Dreamfoam by Brooklyn Bedding Elements Latex here.

A high quality, affordable mattress with Prime shipping? Say no more. This adaptive foam mattress has over 10,000 reviews on Amazon with a 4.5 star overall rating. Its proprietary foam adjusts to your sleep position throughout the night and helps distribute weight evenly, making it an excellent choice for back sleepers. This medium firm option provides good support for your back, shoulders and neck.

Tuft & Needle offers the same 100-night sleep trial on Amazon that they offer through their site, which isnt always the case among other mattress brands.

Buy the Tuft & Needle Original Mattress online.

Every Avocado mattress is Greenguard Gold certified, meaning that they meet strict third-party emissions standards for chemical exposure and pollutants. The Green Mattress also features organic latex, cotton, and wool and comes in a vegan option without wool.

This hybrid mattress has a latex top layer and a second layer of individually pocketed coils, arranged in five ergonomic zones. Both the latex and coils provide bounce and support for your shoulders, hips, spine and knees.

The Green Mattress comes in a standard 11-inch style and a 13-inch pillow top version, which many reviewers say adds the necessary cushioning for side sleepers.

This is also another higher-priced option on our list this tends to be typical of organic mattresses, due to the high quality nontoxic materials used in their construction.

Buy Avocado Green Mattress online.

Hybrid mattresses are made with both foam and innerspring elements. These are great for all body types because the springs offer more support than a simple all foam mattress.

The Allswell Luxe Hybrid is made of two top foam layers designed to relieve muscle and joint pain. The top memory foam layer is even antimicrobial and infused with copper to reduce heat. The third layer is made of 8-inch individually wrapped coils that provide great support, including exterior rows for extra edge support.

This mattress could be an excellent option if youre a back or stomach sleeper, since the firmness will help to keep your back and hips elevated and help with alignment. Reviewers also say it works well for combination sleepers and partners with different sleeping styles.

Buy The Allswell Luxe Hybrid online.

View original post here:
9 Best Affordable Mattress of 2020 - Healthline

SCOTTSDALE, Ariz., Oct. 21, 2020 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Meritage Homes Corporation (NYSE: MTH), a leading U.S. homebuilder, reported third quarter results for the period ended September30, 2020.

Summary Operating Results (unaudited)(Dollars in thousands, except per share amounts)

MANAGEMENT COMMENTS

"Our third quarter of 2020 results continued to outperform and reflect the current strength in the homebuilding market. Meritage had many remarkable achievements this past quarter: We delivered our highest quarterly sales orders, our strongest absorptions since 2005, record quarterly home closing revenue, and our best quarterly gross margin since 2014 - while also achieving our lowest net debt to capital in our company's history, said Steven J. Hilton, chairman and chief executive officer of Meritage Homes. These strong results are the combination of existing favorable market factors including historically-low mortgage interest rates and increased demand for healthier, safer homes, and Meritage's strategy of focusing on affordable entry-level and first move-up homes that allowed us to capitalize on that demand.

Our sales orders of 3,851 homes this quarter were 71% more than the third quarter of 2019 and surpassed our previous quarterly record set in the second quarter of 2020. Over just the first nine months of this year, we sold a total of 10,550 homes - well over the full year 2019 sales volume. We also closed 24% more homes than we did in the same quarter of the prior year. Home closing revenue increased 21% year-over-year to $1.1 billion for the third quarter of 2020, which combined with a 21.5% home closing gross margin to drive a 56% increase in our net earnings compared to the third quarter of 2019."

He continued, "To meet the surge in demand we are experiencing, we are investing significantly for additional growth. We spent nearly $300 million on land acquisition and development and put a record near 9,000 new lots under control this quarter, bringing the total lot supply to nearly 48,000 lots, as we increase our market share in our existing geographies and push toward our 300 community count goal by early to mid 2022."

Mr. Hilton concluded, "Based on our performance through the first three quarters of 2020 and confidence in our ability to deliver our backlog, we are projecting 11,200-11,500 total home closings for approximately $4.2-4.4 billion total home closing revenue and home closing gross margin of 21.0-21.5% for the full year 2020. We expect that to translate into approximately $10.25-10.50 diluted earnings per share, a year-over-year increase of more than 60%."

THIRD QUARTER RESULTS

YEAR TO DATE RESULTS

BALANCE SHEET

CONFERENCE CALLManagement will host a conference call to discuss the results at 8:00 a.m. Arizona Time (11:00 a.m. Eastern Time) on Thursday, October 22. The call will be webcast live with an accompanying slideshow, both of which will be available on the "Investor Relations" page of the Company's web site at https://investors.meritagehomes.com. For those unable to participate via the webcast, telephone participants can dial in to 1-800-437-2398 US toll free on the day of the call. The international dial-in number is 1-929-477-0577.

A replay of the call will be available beginning at approximately 10:00 a.m. Arizona Time (1:00 p.m. Eastern Time) on October 22 and extending through November 5, 2020, on the website noted above or by dialing 1-800-437-2398 US toll free, 1-929-477-0577 for international and referencing conference number 1805364.

Meritage Homes Corporation and SubsidiariesConsolidated Income Statements(In thousands, except per share data)(Unaudited)

Meritage Homes Corporation and SubsidiariesConsolidated Balance Sheets(In thousands)(Unaudited)

(1) Real estate Allocated costs:

Supplemental Information and Non-GAAP Financial Disclosures (Dollars in thousands unaudited):

Meritage Homes Corporation and SubsidiariesConsolidated Statements of Cash Flows(In thousands) (Unaudited)

Meritage Homes Corporation and SubsidiariesOperating Data(Dollars in thousands) (Unaudited)

Meritage Homes Corporation and SubsidiariesOperating Data(Unaudited)

About Meritage Homes CorporationMeritage Homes is the seventh-largest public homebuilder in the United States, based on homes closed in 2019. Meritage offers a variety of homes that are designed with a focus on first-time and first move-up buyers in Arizona, California, Colorado, Texas, Florida, Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina and Tennessee.

The Company has designed and built over 135,000 homes in its 35-year history, and has a reputation for its distinctive style, quality construction, and award-winning customer experience. Meritage is the industry leader in energy-efficient homebuilding and a seven-year recipient of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agencys ENERGY STAR Partner of the Year for Sustained Excellence Award since 2013 for innovation and industry leadership in energy efficient homebuilding.

For more information, visit http://www.meritagehomes.com.

The information included in this press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Such statements include statements regarding health of the housing market and the potential adverse impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, and projected full year 2020 home closings, home closing revenue, gross margins and diluted earnings per share.

Such statements are based on the current beliefs and expectations of Company management and current market conditions, which are subject to significant uncertainties and fluctuations. Actual results may differ from those set forth in the forward-looking statements. The Company makes no commitment, and disclaims any duty, to update or revise any forward-looking statements to reflect future events or changes in these expectations, except as required by law. Meritage's business is subject to a number of risks and uncertainties. As a result of those risks and uncertainties, the Company's stock and note prices may fluctuate dramatically. These risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to, the following: disruptions to our business by COVID-19, fear of a similar event, and measures implemented by federal, state and local governments or health authorities to address it; the availability and cost of finished lots and undeveloped land; shortages in the availability and cost of labor; the ability of our potential buyers to sell their existing homes; changes in interest rates and the availability and pricing of residential mortgages; our exposure to information technology failures and security breaches; legislation related to tariffs; inflation in the cost of materials used to develop communities and construct homes; the adverse effect of slow absorption rates; impairments of our real estate inventory; cancellation rates; competition; changes in tax laws that adversely impact us or our homebuyers; a change to the feasibility of projects under option or contract that could result in the write-down or write-off of earnest or option deposits; our potential exposure to and impacts from natural disasters or severe weather conditions; home warranty and construction defect claims; failures in health and safety performance; our ability to obtain performance and surety bonds in connection with our development work; the loss of key personnel; failure to comply with laws and regulations; our limited geographic diversification; fluctuations in quarterly operating results; our level of indebtedness; our ability to obtain financing if our credit ratings are downgraded; our compliance with government regulations, the effect of legislative and other governmental actions, orders, policies or initiatives that impact housing, labor availability, construction, mortgage availability, our access to capital, the cost of capital or the economy in general, or other initiatives that seek to restrain growth of new housing construction or similar measures; legislation relating to energy and climate change; the replication of our energy-efficient technologies by our competitors; negative publicity that affects our reputation and other factors identified in documents filed by the Company with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including those set forth in our Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2019 and our Form 10-Q for the quarter ended June 30, 2020 under the caption "Risk Factors," which can be found on our website at http://www.investors.meritagehomes.com.

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Meritage Homes reports record third quarter 2020 orders 71% higher than prior year; 56% increase in net earnings with 21% revenue growth and 21.5%...

The Extended Warranty Service market report offers a detailed investigation of the primary growth catalysts, limitations, and constraints which are deemed critical to the progression of the industry over the forecast period. Moreover, the report offers a holistic analysis of the various market segments in order to assist readers in understanding the top revenue prospects of this industry vertical.

As per credible estimations, the Extended Warranty Service market is anticipated to accumulate notable returns, exhibiting a CAGR of XX% during 2020-2025.

Taking into the account the latest updates on the business scenario, the emergence of the COVID-19 pandemic has plummeted the global economy and has affected demand and production across several industries by disrupting the entire supply chain. While some of the businesses have shown signs of immunity against this crisis, others are expected to face challenges even after the pandemic ceases. Our comprehensive study of this business sphere aims to answer all the client queries, thus allowing stakeholders to make well-informed decisions and indulge in revenue generation sprees.

Request Sample Copy of this Report @ https://www.express-journal.com/request-sample/230124

Key pointers of the Extended Warranty Service market report:

Extended Warranty Service Market segments covered in the report:

Regional bifurcation: North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, South America, Middle East & Africa, South East Asia

Product gamut: Standard Protection Plan and Accidental Protection Plan

Application scope: Automobile, Consumer Electronics, Home Appliances and Others

Competitive landscape: Asurion, Allianz Global Assistance, Allstate (SquareTrade), American International Group (AIG), Ally Financial, Assurant, Endurance Warranty Services, American Home Shield, Amtrust, Automobile Protection Corporation (APCO), CarShield, CARCHEX and Corporate Warranties India

Major aspects enlisted in the report:

Influence of the Extended Warranty Service Market report:

The huge assortment of tables, graphs, diagrams, and charts obtained in this market research report generates a strong niche for an in-depth analysis of the ongoing trends in the Extended Warranty Service Market. The report also looks at the latest developments and advancement among the key players in the market such as mergers, partnerships, and achievements.

Extended Warranty Service Market Research Reports Includes PESTLE Analysis:

Extended Warranty Service Market Drivers Affecting:

In short, the Global Extended Warranty Service Market report offers a one-stop solution to all the key players covering various aspects of the industry like growth statistics, development history, industry share, Extended Warranty Service Market presence, potential buyers, consumption forecast, data sources, and beneficial conclusion.

MAJOR TOC OF THE REPORT:

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Research Report and Overview on Extended Warranty Service Market, 2020-2025 - Express Journal

After over a week of heavy criticism from the backcountry community surrounding potential malfunctions with the Pieps DSP Pro and Sport avalanche beacons, Pieps has released an updated statement on the matter on their Instagram channel. If you own a Pieps DSP Pro/Sport and are at all concerned about the functionality of the device, you should send it in to their warranty department and Pieps will offer an upgrade to the latest generation of their product. In North America, this will go throughBlack Diamond Equipment.There is still no official recall of the product.

RELATED: What's Going On With the Pieps DSP Pro and Sport?

We know that confidence in your equipment is key. If you have any concerns about your DSP Pro/Sport, please contact us. We will offer you an upgrade to the latest generation of our avalanche transceivers.

Contact us at: dsp@pieps.com

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Pieps Provides Update on Beacon Warranties and Upgrades - Teton Gravity Research

Cadillac has a couple key goals as it battles to maintain its share of the luxury market, and ultimately grow.

First, it has to stand out against a wide array of luxury competitors (Acura, Tesla, Audi, Lexus, Infiniti, Lincoln, Benz and BMW among them). This alone is a daunting task.

The other goal is to capture the next generation of luxury car buyers, with the goal of getting them in the Cadillac family so they remain loyal as they buy or lease luxury vehicles in the future. In order to do this, you need new vehicles that will garner attention that are also somewhat affordable for entry-level buyers.

With that in mind, Cadillac developed the XT4, a compact SUV that debuted in 2019 and sees minor changes for 2020. This vehicle sits on the low end of the Cadillac luxury crossover lineup, and is priced to sell to first-time luxury buyers.

I recently spent some time in a 2020 Cadillac XT4, and Im back with a full review on how it compares in a segment where you really need to shine to stand out.

2019 Cadillac XT4 Sport

LOOKS

The 2020 Cadillac XT4 offers the usual aggressive but stylish design that Cadillac fans have learned to love over the years.

The XT4 is part of the family of crossovers which also includes XT5 and XT6, the new naming convention which hopefully will stick around since I can't keep track of all the changes anymore. The XT4 features LED headlamps and tail lamps, with front cornering, as well as LED turn signals, passive entry and keyless start.

2019 Cadillac XT4 Sport

The exterior of my test vehicle featured a silver metallic paint job, while the interior was jet black with cinnamon accents.

The interior design of the XT4 was well thought-out by Cadillac. Up front, seats are extremely roomy, and back seat leg room is also strong for the segment. Seating is available for up to five people.

2019 Cadillac XT4 Sport

One area where the XT4 does fall short is cargo space, as numbers are lower than some rivals with the rear seats up or down. On a positive note, the rear does have a 60/40 split to boost storage options depending on the number of rear passengers.

The interior design emanates luxury better than many of this segments offerings. The high-quality seating was plush and cozy and features lumbar support for both front seats, and driver settings can be saved via the memory package.

Drivers in colder climates would be wise to opt for the cold weather package, which includes front heated seats, rear outboard heated seats in rear, and a heated steering wheel.

2019 Cadillac XT4 Sport

Buyers who choose the Sport trim level will get attractive design features including a gloss black mesh grille, gloss black window moldings and specific Sport alloy wheel options.

Luxury and Premium Luxury models will get you a grille featuring bright metallic accents, satin aluminum window moldings and satin chrome-accented door handles.

HOWS THE RIDE?

A 2.0-liter, 4-cylinder turbo engine powers all trim levels of the 2020 XT4. This power plant brings a boost in fuel efficiency, and is paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission. It offers 237 horsepower and 258 lb.-ft. of torque.

2019 Cadillac XT4 Sport

FWD and AWD versions of the XT4 are available. My test vehicle featured all-wheel drive, a four-wheel independent suspension, selectable driving modes, stability control and traction control.

Driving modes included Touring, Snow/Ice, and Sport, and can be adjusted based on your driving situation and how you want to get around. There is also an available Active Sport Suspension featuring Continuous Damping Control.

I was happy with the acceleration, handling and overall power of the XT4. Though it is not best in class in any of these categories, it is one of the better performers overall and will satisfy most drivers. The overall ride quality was also extremely smooth, as a luxury ride should be.

One small gripe is that Cadillac uses a unique shifter design that most people wont be used to maneuvering. It doesnt take long to learn it though, so not a huge deal in the long run.

TECHNOLOGY, SAFETY

I have long questioned the quality and user-friendliness of the Cadillac User Experience (CUE) system that was in place for many, many years. And it looks like Cadillac finally got the hint from so many frustrated users, and has made an upgrade to the infotainment setup in the XT4, a truly positive change.

While it still has its quirks, this new CUE system is nowhere near as dramatic and unreliable as the former system was. Better late than never, and Im curious to see future evolution to make it even better.

The updated infotainment system features an 8-inch color display, and is compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto for smartphone mirroring. It now offers a rotary infotainment controller, which is much easier to use than the touch controls on the previous system.

Satellite radio comes as a trial and then you must subscribe. OnStar services are available on the vehicle, and you can choose a Wi-Fi hotspot in the vehicle. You also get a hands-free liftgate, universal home remote, and rain-sensing windshield wipers.

Safety ratings are another huge benefit of the XT4. Almost every government rating is at 5 stars with a couple at 4 stars. It may be a smaller SUV, but is still very very safe.

Safety and Security features on the XT4 include: Automatic Emergency Braking, Front Pedestrian Braking, Lane Change Alert with Side Blind Zone Alert, Rear Cross-Traffic Alert, Safety Alert Seat to warn you when you're exiting your lane, Front and Rear Park Assist, and Forward Collision Alert. All of the systems worked very well in my experience and were not overzealous.

An optional feature is an embedded navigation system, which also includes real-time traffic reports. This feature also includes an upgrade to a Bose Centerpoint surround-sound 13-speaker audio system.

An optional driver assist package includes: Advanced Adaptive Cruise Control, Enhanced Automatic Emergency Braking, and Reverse Automatic Braking. Wireless phone charging is also an option. Cadillac Connected Apps are available, as are Teen Driver controls, and the vehicle is loaded with air bags. An HD Rear Vision Camera (which looks and works great) and Rear Park Assist are standard features on the XT4.

MPG

Official fuel mileage numbers on the AWD version of the XT4 come in at 22 city/29 highway/24 combined. The FWD version can reach 30 mpg on the highway.

These numbers, courtesy of the new fuel-efficient engine, are near the top of the class in the luxury compact SUV category, and were confirmed during my time driving the vehicle. If fuel economy is a key box for buyers to check, theyll have a lot to like in the XT4.

PRICE

My test vehicle with a good number of add-ons was priced just over $48,000, and the XT4s base price starts about $36,000. These are very competitive numbers in the luxury segment, and will help to attract new buyers who may have a lower budget.

When you consider that the XT4 competes well in most categories against more expensive alternatives, it comes across as a steal.

Warranties include a 4-year/50K mile bumper-to-bumper limited warranty, and 6-year/70K mile powertrain limited warranty.

2019 Cadillac XT4 Sport

BOTTOM LINE

SUVs are the segment where auto companies will make their money going forward. And Cadillac should see success attracting new luxury buyers to the brand with a vehicle like the XT4.

The price is right, its more stylish than many of its rivals inside and out, and the drive is enjoyable. Add to that a bevy of tech and safety features, and you have a truly competitive package.

Especially if someone is looking to buy domestic, they now have a compelling reason to do so.

Matt Myftiu can be reached via email at matt@autotechreviews.com. His past reviews can all be seen online at autotechreviews.com.

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Cadillac XT4 targets next generation of luxury buyers - The Oakland Press