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South Burlington: America’s Safest City – A Model for Safety and Security

When it comes to safety, South Burlington, Vermont, is setting the standard for cities across the U.S. According to a recent study by personal finance company WalletHub, South Burlington has been named the safest city in America, with nearby Burlington also ranking impressively at No. 4.

What Makes South Burlington So Safe?

The WalletHub study analyzed several factors that contribute to a city’s overall safety, including traffic fatalities, assault rates, unemployment, and the percentage of uninsured residents. South Burlington scored particularly well across these categories, but its top ranking was largely driven by its low traffic-related risks.

One key highlight: South Burlington has one of the lowest pedestrian fatality rates in the country. Additionally, the city boasts the 13th-lowest percentage of uninsured motorists, meaning accidents are less likely to be financially devastating. With a strong network of first responders—ranking 9th in EMTs and paramedics per capita—the city is well-equipped to handle emergencies when they do occur.

Financial Safety a Key Factor

Beyond physical safety, South Burlington also excels in financial security, another crucial element of the WalletHub ranking. The city has the lowest unemployment rate in the country, standing at just 1.9%. Its real estate market is also strong, with the second-lowest percentage of seriously underwater mortgages and the third-fewest non-business bankruptcy filings per capita.

These factors help make South Burlington not only a safe place to live but also a financially secure one, adding another layer to its overall livability.

Natural Disaster Preparedness

Another advantage South Burlington has is its low risk for natural disasters, something WalletHub factored into the rankings. While many cities face significant threats from earthquakes, hurricanes, or floods, South Burlington and Burlington are both insulated from such hazards, making them safe havens in more ways than one.

The Broader Picture: New England’s Strong Safety Ratings

South Burlington isn’t the only city in New England making waves for its safety. Burlington, VT, ranks fourth on the list, adding to the region’s reputation for secure, community-focused living. This high ranking reflects the overall safety culture that Vermont has cultivated, offering residents peace of mind on both a personal and financial level.

Here’s a look at the top 5 safest cities in America, according to WalletHub:

1. South Burlington, VT

2. Nashua, NH

3. Yonkers, NY

4. Burlington, VT

5. Madison, WI

How WalletHub Measured Safety

WalletHub’s ranking was based on three major categories: home and community safety, financial safety, and natural-disaster risk. These factors were broken down into a total of 41 metrics, each weighted to create an overall score. South Burlington achieved an impressive score of 74.15, while Burlington followed closely with 69.55.

Join the Conversation

The recognition of South Burlington as the safest city in America is a testament to the city’s dedication to maintaining a high quality of life for its residents. But what do you think? Can other cities follow South Burlington’s lead? What steps could your city take to improve safety?

Let’s start a conversation about the future of safe, secure cities in America. Share your thoughts and ideas below!

IHG Breaks Ground on New Universal Boulevard Hotel, Expanding Its Presence in Orlando

IHG Hotels & Resorts has officially broken ground on a new hotel located on Universal Boulevard, marking another significant addition to the Orlando hospitality market. The seven-story, dual-branded EVEN-Staybridge Suites hotel is the first of three new IHG properties planned for the area, underscoring the company’s commitment to expanding its footprint in one of the nation’s most vibrant tourist destinations.

Designed by Baskerville Architects, this dual-branded hotel will incorporate some signature location-specific details to appeal to both business and leisure travelers. The project will feature IHG’s wellness-focused EVEN brand, combined with the extended-stay amenities of Staybridge Suites. This innovative concept promises to offer guests a unique blend of health-conscious amenities and the comforts of home.

IHG is also preparing to introduce two additional properties to the Orlando market: a 784-room InterContinental Hotel on International Drive and a Kimpton Hotel in downtown Orlando. The Kimpton will be a key component of a mixed-use tower within the Westcourt Sports + Entertainment District, located across from the Kia Center, while the InterContinental will replace the former Wyndham resort and convention center on I-Drive.

These three hotels are being developed by different partners, reflecting IHG’s diverse approach to collaborating with experts in hospitality development.

What Does This Mean for Orlando?

With these upcoming projects, IHG is capitalizing on Orlando’s status as a global tourism hub, strategically situating its new hotels in high-traffic, high-demand areas. From Universal Boulevard to International Drive, the company is making significant investments in properties that will cater to the diverse needs of travelers visiting Orlando for business, leisure, and everything in between.

Join the Conversation

What do you think about IHG’s ambitious expansion in Orlando? Will the new EVEN-Staybridge Suites, InterContinental, and Kimpton Hotel reshape the hospitality scene in the area? How do you see these projects influencing the local economy and tourism industry?

We’d love to hear your thoughts! Drop a comment below or connect with us on social media. Let’s discuss the future of Orlando’s hotel market and the broader impact of these exciting developments.

Offering Memorandum: Equinox Townhomes

Port Charlotte, Florida

Planned and Permitted for 82 Townhomes

Executive Summary

The Equinox Townhomes is a unique residential development opportunity in the growing community of Port Charlotte, Florida. This project has been fully planned and permitted for 82 modern townhomes, catering to the increasing demand for high-quality housing in the region. With a blend of contemporary design, thoughtful landscaping, and convenient amenities, the Equinox Townhomes will offer a premium living experience for future residents.

Investment Highlights

Location: Port Charlotte, Florida— a thriving community with a high demand for residential housing, conveniently located near schools, shopping, and major transportation routes.

Project Scope: Development of 82 two-story townhomes with modern, aesthetically appealing designs.

Permits: All necessary permits and approvals are secured, allowing for immediate construction.

Strong Market Demand: With Port Charlotte experiencing rapid growth, demand for new housing continues to outpace supply.

Proximity to Amenities: Close to public parks, schools, shopping centers, and recreational facilities.

Contemporary Design: The townhomes feature large windows, high-quality materials, and energy-efficient building practices, making them both attractive and sustainable.

Architectural Style: Modern two-story homes with stucco, stone accents, and landscaped front yards.

Parking: Individual garages and street parking for additional convenience.

Amenities: Includes landscaped common areas, a community pool, and easy access to nearby public parks.

Location & Market Analysis

Port Charlotte, Florida, is located in Charlotte County and has seen a consistent population growth in recent years due to its desirable weather, cost of living, and proximity to beaches and nature preserves. The area’s robust job market and affordable living have attracted families, retirees, and young professionals alike.

Contact: dan@danredevllc.com

Phone: 214-856-1599

Atlantic City Hotel Completes $55 Million Facelift, Strengthening Its Position in the Gambling Mecca

The Borgata’s Water Club hotel, part of the iconic Borgata casino complex in Atlantic City, New Jersey, has officially completed its $55 million transformation and rebranding as the MGM Tower. This upgrade marks the latest in a series of major investments aimed at enhancing Atlantic City’s status as a premier destination for both gambling and luxury accommodations.

The completion of this ambitious project comes just as the Borgata approaches its 20th anniversary. More than 700 rooms in the Water Club were revamped as part of the rebranding, with the addition of luxury “vista suites” featuring stunning wraparound views of the Atlantic City skyline. The redesign draws inspiration from the marina, incorporating nautical design elements with neutral and blue tones, deep wood finishes, and sophisticated coastal vibes.

East-facing rooms now offer floor-to-ceiling windows for breathtaking views of the Atlantic sunrise, while west-facing rooms highlight marshland vistas, adding a serene touch to the guest experience. The MGM Tower also includes a newly introduced 9,000-square-foot event space on the 32nd floor, replacing the former Immersion Spa.

A Major Investment in Challenging Times

This renovation arrives at a time when the national hotel occupancy rate is nearing pre-pandemic levels at 63%, according to STR, a division of CoStar Group. Despite economic concerns, including high interest rates and a slowing real estate market, MGM Resorts’ commitment to reinvestment underscores its confidence in Atlantic City’s long-term potential.

As Corey Sanders, MGM Resorts’ Chief Operating Officer, noted, “Introducing the MGM Tower connects Borgata with the unparalleled entertainment and resort experiences MGM Resorts is recognized for worldwide. We believe this significant reinvestment will drive visitation to Atlantic City well into the future.”

Enhancing the Atlantic City Experience

The Borgata, located off the Boardwalk in Atlantic City’s Marina District, already boasts its own 43-story hotel with nearly 2,000 rooms. The adjacent MGM Tower, with its 43 stories and 757 guest rooms, has long been a fixture of the Atlantic City skyline. The recent renovation aligns the property with other high-profile improvements in the area, including Showboat Resort’s $50 million upgrades and Caesars Entertainment’s $400 million revamp of three local properties.

The Borgata remains the leader in in-person gambling revenue in Atlantic City, posting $58.4 million in revenue this January, a 21% increase over the previous year. With the completion of the MGM Tower’s redesign, Borgata aims to strengthen its appeal to both leisure travelers and business groups. The tower’s 27,000 square feet of meeting and event space, along with its indoor and outdoor pools, high-end boutiques, and proximity to entertainment and nightlife, ensure a top-tier experience for guests.

Looking Ahead: A Bright Future for Atlantic City

As the MGM Tower opens its doors to guests, the future of Atlantic City’s hospitality industry looks bright. With major investments continuing to flow into the city, Atlantic City is positioning itself for long-term growth and renewed visitor interest.

“As we approach the resort’s 20th anniversary, we are more committed than ever to remaining a leader in hospitality and entertainment by continuing to evolve the Borgata experience,” said Travis Lunn, Borgata’s president and chief operating officer.

The MGM Tower’s completion is a testament to Atlantic City’s resilience and its commitment to delivering world-class experiences to visitors from around the globe.

Is Atlantic City Real Estate the Next Big Investment? Projections Say Yes!

Looking for the next hot spot to invest in real estate? According to a recent analysis by GOBankingRates, Atlantic City is emerging as one of the most promising cities for real estate investments over the next decade. In fact, it ranks second among the top cities projected for the strongest property value growth, just behind Columbia, Missouri.

Here’s why Atlantic City is catching attention: the city’s real estate values are expected to rise by 4% over the next year—more than double the national average of 1.7%. By 2033, Atlantic City’s home prices are anticipated to be over 20% higher than the national average. That’s significant growth in a relatively short time, especially for a city with current home prices below the U.S. median.

Why Atlantic City?

GOBankingRates identified Atlantic City as an attractive investment by looking at key factors like affordability and growth potential. With a median home value currently at $325,013, the city is predicted to reach a value of $351,534 by 2025 and soar to $481,098 by 2033. That’s a 20% growth rate over the national average, making it one of the fastest-growing real estate markets in the country.

A Strategic Approach to Affordable Real Estate

The study focused on metros with homes priced below the national median of $333,910 and forecasted growth rates exceeding the 1.7% national average. Cities like Atlantic City offer buyers an entry point into an affordable market with high growth potential, making them attractive not just for real estate investors but also for first-time homebuyers and families looking to build equity.

While home prices don’t always follow a straight path upward, these projections indicate that Atlantic City’s housing market is moving in a positive direction, making it an ideal place to buy now and hold for future gains.

The Bigger Picture: Nationwide Trends

GOBankingRates’ research took into account Zillow’s projections for U.S. median home values over the next decade and compared them to the 250 largest metros. They aimed to highlight areas where home prices are likely to surpass the national median, which means buyers who invest now could see their properties appreciate significantly.

Only Columbia, Missouri, is expected to outpace Atlantic City, with a projected one-year growth rate of 6.4% and a 50% increase by 2033. But Atlantic City’s combination of affordability and strong growth potential makes it a compelling option for those looking to get into a market on the rise.

What’s Next for Atlantic City?

Whether you’re an investor or someone looking to buy your first home, Atlantic City offers an opportunity for substantial growth over the next decade. With home prices set to rise well above the national average, it’s shaping up to be a market where buyers can build long-term value.

Is now the time to invest in Atlantic City real estate? Join the conversation and let us know what you think! Is this seaside city ready for a real estate boom?

🏡 Equinox Townhomes | Port Charlotte, FL 🏡

Ready to invest in a prime development? The Equinox Townhomes project is 100% shovel-ready, with 87 modern townhomes in a phenomenal location. All infrastructure and permits are in place, making this a perfect opportunity for quick development and fast lease-up! 🌟

💡 Key Features:

100% Utility Agreement Completed ✅
100% Civil & County Permits Acquired ✅
Prime location with easy access to I-75 and US-41 🚗
Spacious units with private garages and backyards 🏡
Amenity-rich with a pool, dog park, and more 🌿
Close to the new Sunseeker Resort and other major developments 🌴

With high nearby occupancy rates and growing demand in Port Charlotte, this development is set for success! 🏘️

✉️ dan@danredevllc.com

Developers Eye Miami’s First Supertall Neighborhood and Tallest US Skyline South of New York

Miami is on the cusp of a historic transformation as developers race to build the city’s first supertall skyscrapers, ushering in a new era for its skyline. After years of stalled plans, seven supertall towers, each soaring over 984 feet, are now in various stages of development across the city. The Waldorf Astoria Hotel and Residences Miami, reaching a staggering 1,049 feet, is the most advanced, already climbing skyward. This marks the beginning of what could soon be the tallest section of skyline in the U.S. south of New York City.

A New Era for Miami’s Skyline

Fueled by an influx of new companies and wealthy individuals migrating to South Florida, Miami is undergoing rapid change. Billions of dollars have poured into the city in recent years, providing the necessary capital to finally pursue supertall towers. According to Dan Kaplan, a managing principal at PMG, “Miami is the center of the world right now, with a real estate market that has never been hotter.”

Developers, like those behind the Waldorf Astoria, are now selling condos for over $4 million, making these expensive projects financially viable. “The type of capital and the experience of developers involved is different,” said Juan Arias, CoStar’s director of market analytics for South Florida. Investors from New York and other major cities with similar skyscrapers are now setting their sights on Miami.

Miami Joins the Supertall Club

While Miami has flirted with tall buildings before—boasting Florida’s current tallest structure, the 868-foot Panorama Tower—the city has yet to break the elusive 1,000-foot mark. That, however, is poised to change. With developers eyeing higher ground, Miami is set to join an exclusive club of cities with supertall buildings, standing shoulder to shoulder with New York and Chicago.

Projects in the pipeline include RFR Realty’s 1,049-foot tower along Biscayne Boulevard and Florida East Coast Realty’s long-planned One Bayfront Plaza. Gencom and Hyatt’s Miami Riverbridge, featuring a skydeck 700 feet above the city, and the nearly 1,000-foot One Brickell City Centre, are also set to reshape the skyline. Even luxury brands are getting involved—JDS Development Group is teaming up with Dolce & Gabbana for a first-of-its-kind branded condominium-hotel, 888 Brickell.

Challenges of Building Tall in Miami

Despite the excitement, building supertall towers in Miami comes with unique challenges. The city’s limestone bedrock, high water table, and hurricane risks all make construction more complicated and costly. Developers must employ advanced engineering techniques like deep soil mixing and drive structural pylons deep into the ground to ensure stability.

Adding to the complexity, Miami’s proximity to Miami International Airport means developers must navigate strict Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) height restrictions. The FAA enforces a hard cap of 1,049 feet to avoid potential risks to flight paths, limiting the area zoned for supertalls to just over a square mile in downtown Miami and the Brickell district.

A Tall Future on the Horizon

While Miami’s supertall skyline won’t rival New York or Chicago’s immediately, the groundwork is being laid. In a few years, Miami could become a city where the offices, hotels, and residences soar into the sky, offering sweeping views and cementing its place as a global metropolis.

For now, Miami’s skyline is rising—quite literally. Once completed in 2028, the Waldorf Astoria will serve as the brand’s global flagship property, and with several other towers in the works, the city is poised to create one of the most striking skylines in the U.S.

Stay tuned as Miami reaches new heights, both physically and economically, and follow our blog and social media for updates on this exciting transformation!

Revitalizing History: How Adaptive Reuse Transformed a Sears Store into 6 Corners Lofts, a Luxury Mixed-Use Development

In the heart of Chicago’s historic Six Corners shopping district, a remarkable transformation has taken place. Once the bustling site of a Sears department store, the property at 4714 W. Irving Park Road has been given a new lease on life as 6 Corners Lofts—a luxury, mixed-use housing development designed to meet the evolving needs of urban living.

From Retail Giant to Residential Haven

The Sears store, which opened its doors on October 20, 1938, with more than 99,500 eager customers, served as a retail hub for the community for 80 years. When it closed, it left behind not only a significant void in the neighborhood but also a landmark structure rich with potential. In 2024, this historic site reemerged as 6 Corners Lofts, a 394,000-square-foot adaptive reuse project that seamlessly blends modern living with the building’s storied past.

Designed by MG2, the project embraces the existing architecture while adding contemporary touches. The development offers 206 luxury units, featuring 38 distinct floor plans, each offering outdoor access—an element rarely found in city living. The design includes a five-story addition and a new rooftop, creating a dynamic residential environment.

A Blend of Luxury and Functionality

The architectural team faced the challenge of maintaining the historical integrity of the building while introducing modern conveniences. By punching windows into the original structure and adding balconies, they created bright, airy living spaces that still respect the building’s roots. High ceilings—up to 16 feet in some units—bring a sense of openness, while modern amenities such as stainless steel appliances, in-unit laundry, and luxury finishes make each unit feel high-end yet comfortable.

Residents have access to a variety of on-site amenities, from a rooftop pool with sweeping city views to a fitness room, a speakeasy-style lounge, a dog park, and co-working spaces designed for the remote-work era. These features are crafted to foster community and convenience, making 6 Corners Lofts more than just a place to live—it’s a lifestyle destination.

Revitalizing Retail with Target and More

On the ground floor, 6 Corners Lofts offers 50,000 square feet of retail space, anchored by a Target store that serves both residents and the surrounding community. The inclusion of retail ensures that the development continues to function as a commercial hub, helping to restore the vibrancy of the Six Corners district.

As the area around 6 Corners Lofts continues to evolve, there’s hope that this project will once again establish the location as one of Chicago’s most active shopping centers—bringing renewed economic energy and opportunity to local businesses.

A Positive Impact on the Community

The adaptive reuse of this historic site has been widely applauded for its positive impact on both the local economy and the broader community. In addition to luxury living, 6 Corners Lofts includes six units set aside as part of Chicago’s Affordable Requirements Ordinance (ARO), ensuring a portion of the development remains accessible to those who qualify for affordable housing.

As the project nears completion, it’s clear that 6 Corners Lofts is not only preserving a piece of Chicago history but also helping to shape the future of the city’s urban landscape. By blending old and new, this development stands as a model of how adaptive reuse can revitalize communities and breathe new life into iconic buildings.

A Bright Future for Six Corners

With its mix of high-end residential units, modern amenities, and ground-floor retail, 6 Corners Lofts is poised to become a cornerstone of the neighborhood’s renaissance. As the Six Corners area continues to grow and develop, projects like this will play a key role in shaping its future—creating vibrant, sustainable communities that honor the past while looking toward the future.

The Federal Reserve is About to Cut Interest Rates: What It Means for You

Big news is brewing at the Federal Reserve. For the first time since 2020, the Fed is preparing to cut interest rates. But the big question on everyone’s mind: How much will they cut?

It’s a tough call. For over a year, the Fed has held borrowing costs at their highest in over two decades, making everything from car loans to credit card balances more expensive. Now, as they look to ease things up, they face a difficult choice. Should they go for a modest quarter-percentage-point cut? Or should they take more aggressive action with a half-percentage-point reduction?

This uncertainty has made the upcoming meeting one of the most highly anticipated in recent memory. But before we jump into predictions, let’s break down the three things you need to know as we await the Fed’s decision this Wednesday.

1. What’s Really at Stake?

First, let’s get one thing straight: a rate cut is happening. Fed Chair Jerome Powell has been clear about that for weeks. The real question is how big the cut will be.

It’s a tricky balancing act. Inflation has cooled considerably since its peak in 2022. Consumer prices are now rising at an annual rate of 2.5%, a sharp drop from the 9.1% we saw last June. But inflation still isn’t where the Fed wants it to be.

Meanwhile, the job market is beginning to show some signs of strain. Hiring has slowed, and the unemployment rate has ticked up to 4.2%. With this mixed bag of data, it’s tough to say whether a smaller or larger rate cut is the right move. Economists are split, with some advocating for a more significant cut to prop up the job market, while others recommend a more cautious approach.

2. What’s Wall Street Expecting?

Wall Street has been on a rollercoaster trying to predict the size of the cut. Investor sentiment has swung back and forth between betting on a quarter-point cut and a half-point move. By Tuesday afternoon, a larger cut seemed twice as likely.

One thing is certain, though: Wednesday’s cut won’t be the last. Investors are betting that the Fed will continue trimming rates in the coming months, marking the start of a new era for the U.S. economy after a period of aggressively raising rates to curb inflation.

But that’s not the only factor at play. Wall Street is also juggling fears of a volatile tech sector, concerns about the upcoming presidential election, and the dreaded September slump—a historically tough month for the markets. With so much on the line, investors are bracing for a bumpy ride and urging patience.

3. How Will Rate Cuts Affect You?

Here’s what really matters: What does all of this mean for your wallet?

If the Fed cuts rates, borrowing will get cheaper. Interest rates on car loans, business loans, and credit cards are likely to drop. Mortgage rates have already begun to fall in anticipation of the move, with the average rate on a 30-year home loan down to 6.2%. While that’s still higher than the pandemic-era lows, it’s a substantial improvement from last year’s peak of nearly 8%.

On the flip side, if you’ve been enjoying higher interest rates on your savings account, brace yourself for a dip. When the Fed cuts rates, the return on your savings typically follows suit.

But here’s the catch: Don’t expect these changes to happen overnight. Whether the Fed opts for a quarter-point or half-point cut, it may be a while before you really feel the difference.

What’s Your Take?
As we wait for the Fed’s announcement, there’s plenty to think about. Will a rate cut give the economy the boost it needs, or are we in for more uncertainty ahead? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

Introducing My Place 3.0: The Next Generation of Hospitality from My Place Hotels of America

At My Place Hotels of America, we’re redefining the future of affordable, comfortable lodging with the introduction of our innovative new prototype: My Place 3.0. This exciting upgrade is designed to elevate the guest experience while maximizing value for franchise owners across the country.

After extensive collaboration with industry experts—including developers, operators, and city planners—My Place 3.0 is a thoughtfully crafted, four-story prototype featuring 71 units. We’ve combined practical design with modern aesthetics, allowing for ultimate adaptability to meet local needs and preferences. Whether your property requires a pitched roof or a flat one, or whether the exterior is finished with premium panels or advanced applied systems like Dryvit, our flexible design ensures this prototype can seamlessly fit any location.

A Concept Built Around Franchisee Success

At the heart of My Place 3.0 is our commitment to franchisees. Every design decision was made with their success in mind. We engaged directly with property owners and operators to ensure the new prototype enhances efficiency and profitability. As a result, we’re introducing a range of improvements, including expanded maintenance areas, additional laundry facilities, and more storage space to streamline operations.

Even the guest experience has been enhanced. My Place 3.0 includes a cozy lounge featuring soft half-booths for added comfort, creating a welcoming space for guests to relax. And with our new My Place Business Suite, we’ve developed the perfect accommodation for both business travelers and small families. This 470 square foot suite offers a king bed and state-of-the-art climate control to ensure the highest level of comfort.

Growing Our Presence Across the U.S.

As part of our brand’s continued growth, we are thrilled to announce the opening of My Place Hotel-Randolph, Vermont, marking the 73rd My Place property in the U.S. and the very first in Vermont. This expansion is just the beginning of what’s to come as we roll out My Place 3.0 across the country.

With installations for our new prototype set to begin next year, we are excited to lead the charge in delivering a new level of hospitality excellence. We look forward to welcoming more guests—and helping our franchisees thrive—as we embark on this exciting new chapter.

Stay tuned for more updates as we continue to grow and innovate at My Place Hotels of America!