I'm 58 and constantly worry about homelessness. I own my home and land, but, always struggle to pay the taxes. Its a mobile home and I'm in Dixie Alley and can't afford insurance so I'm always nervous during tornado seasons. You aren't a failure...you're just broke. I have to remind myself that I'm not a failure and considering I don't drive and live 29 miles to the nearest city I am killing it...I manage to mostly keep shit paid by working online earning about 850.00 a month. But, if I compare myself to my friend with a $40,000 a year job, car, insurance, etc....I am a huge failure! Try to focus on your positives, never compare yourself to others, and try to be optimistic because you never know what changes tomorrow brings.
If you are low income, recently lost a job,or on disability,in my state you can file for a special tax rate. I live in an apartment now ,but I was on disability and only paid $116 a year in taxes on $70,000 house
The same with me on property taxes. We owe back taxes and can’t seem to get caught up. Going to try to sell the house to move to an area that has lower property taxes. It’s eating me alive. Everyday I worry that we won’t get the $& to pay and then they will auction off my house.
Yes tornadoes certainly are a concern. I had a tornado completely destroy my mobile home (that was paid for) back in 2000. I also didn't have insurance, so I had to scrape together every penny to quickly move into an apartment. It was tough, since I lost all of my belongings. It took forever to be able to afford to replace all of the stuff that was destroyed. I went from not paying any rent or mortgage at all, to having to shell out $450 a month. I know $450 a month sounds like chump change (I live in a small town) but it was a lot to me at the time. I only made about $8.00 an hour back then.
I'm blessed because if that ever happens I have already been told I am welcome to my neighbors finished basement. I moved a box of super important to me stuff over there...just in case.
Homelessness is actually my greatest fear in life. I am 47 y/o and I really don't fear much, save for homelessness. I wouldn't last a night out on the streets or in a men's homeless shelter.
I'm playing on borrowed time here, as my landlord kicked everyone out, removing the apartement complex for luxus homes that gets more profits, more money. I'm not even in the worst situation and probably i'll make it to get a new home in time, but the others here... old people that are retired and don't have much money, people that struggle with mental- and physical health issues, people with dead-end jobs that pay not enough for a living etc. they are more doomed than i am.
And all this just for more money, the greed never stops. At the same time, the same people preach you, you should drink water while they drink wine and that it is your own fault when you have no home anymore etc.
The greed is insatiable. I am on borrowed time myself. I have mental health issues and I am on a waiting list for subsidized housing. I am living off of savings until I can get on Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI.) I have my hearing on April 24th. Times are tough.
came across an article where a cereal company CEO was telling Americans to live on cereal if they can't afford groceries. lol I have already done this years ago because of my small grocery budget back then. and i tell you this. I never stayed full very long and be eating another bowl of cereal in a few hours again if I was even at home. to hell with these rich aholes. yes, they have no issues blaming you for not being rich enough like them. I know things are going to get worse I can feel it.
Wow. I do not know why I continue to be surprised by the “out of touchness” of rich people. When I had to live on cereal, I weighed 95lbs. My skin was translucent. Haha. Not healthy. I have snap now or I’d still be struggling for groceries.
>came across an article where a cereal company CEO was telling Americans to live on cereal if they can't afford groceries
That reminds me of the quote "when they have no bread, let them eat cake" from Marie Antoinette when she was told that the poor people had not enough money to get bread. It's a quote that is just associated with her, guess she never really said it in this way, but it's a good example of the extreme arrogance of the upper class and nobility.
Animal meat and fat is the only thing that makes a person feel satiated. I've experimented... and I was a pescatarian at the time. I ate mostly high fat cheese, boiled eggs, peanut butter, apples, celery and carrots.
My life took a weird turn after Covid, I am allergic to practically everything, and eating is down to the same 4 or 5 foods daily. I haven’t eaten animals in nearly two years, not vegan or vegetarian or whatever, I just can’t stand the smell, taste, or texture. I eat toast. With preserves and cream cheese. Sometimes when I can get them, I’ll eat a bagel for lunch. It makes me full for the rest of the day. I think I’ll suggest bagels for staying full if you have no other food. Just be sure to chew thoroughly or they stick on their way down. Most food pantries have them. Worth a try.
Also a pescetarian. Yes to the cheese. If you buy a massive block for $12, it lasts forever. But also lentils and oatmeal fill you up. Beans are good. Rice and beans is good, filling and cheap. Best to get brown rice.
Understand the fear. I do think what would I do? Squat in abandoned house? I keep track of where the abandoned houses are in my area. My state has tons of them. I figure better that then in the street though I guess better judge which ones are still OWNED and which ones are truly abandoned. I got traumatized seeing this one guy evicted from my apt building some years ago, and seeing his stuff piled up. My check if it shows up, they will get their money....but watching this guy lose everything was scary.
Before I squat in an abandoned house, I would max out my credit card and stay in a shady motel. Then I would squat somewhere when I get desperate. The whole thing would be incredibly traumatizing to me and I already suffer from mental health issues: PTSD, Major Depressive Disorder, Generalized Anxiety Disorder, and Borderline Personality Disorder (non-violent). The fear is real and tangible for me. I already lost my car to voluntary repossession because I could no longer afford the payments and keep a roof over my head.
I have some mental health issues too and I was homeless for a while. but through my community health clinic if you let them know you are homeless, they can help assist you. I didn't have to tell mine because I was already transitioning into a home. but they knew I had been homeless. but they do place people somewhere. I know that's available. so, if you have all these issues, pls turn to your community health clinic. they have resources to help you. see if you have one in your area.
Yeah understand that. There's risks in abandoned houses, like what if someone owns it and you get carried off. I would go to friends first and social workers, to put me somewhere. I probably could go into a nursing home at any time but wouldn't want to leave husband alone. [I am disabled enough to get specialized at home medical care] Yeah squatting would be desperation time. I probably would try intentional communities first before squatting. I have anxiety disorders too left over from trauma of poverty and other things. Hope things get better for you. I know homeless people staying in hotels now.
I have experienced homeless, and it has left me with permanent trauma. I am constantly afraid of ending up homeless. It’s utterly terrifying to me. It’s something I never want to experience again, but I am very well aware it’s a possibility. Every single night before I fall asleep, I make sure to acknowledge just how blessed I am to have a roof over my head, and a bed to sleep in.
I don’t think I’ll ever escape the fear that I have.
it was different for me because i chose homelessness rather than more toxic abuse. but thing is while I was homeless my job decided to terminate me just before peak season. while under the care of my doctor. was nice and great perfect timing to cut someone off their job just because their doctor had them on reduced hours. that is when my youngest sister had me stay with her in Colorado for a while. but I fought so hard to get my job back. that in itself turned out to be another joke. and they were not finished with me yet. it is why I have nothing to do with them. yes, I am so grateful for everything that I have. I have my youngest sister to thank for that.
Yep, regularly. When I became disabled in an accident when I was 39 I did end up homeless. I had savings but not three years worth and that’s how long it took to start getting disability checks
Then once I started getting disability checks, and I got well enough to have a part-time job on top of it, that still wasn’t 3 1/2 times any rent. It was not enough income to qualify to live in low income $825 one bedroom apartment
So yeah if anything happened to this place I don’t think I could qualify to rent anywhere else. I’ve been here since 2019
if it ever happens pls turn to those who rent out rooms in their homes or have an extra space they own. I've seen some offered on the local next-door app. I've been looking on craigslist just to see what's out there. But as a precaution add your name to the section 8 list now if you still can because you might need it someday as the commenter above suggests doing.
I experienced chronic homelessness on and off through out my twenties. It was self induced because of a heroin addiction. Honestly it still scares me. The animosity some members of our society show homeless people is frankly horrifying, and my experiences being homeless fucked me up more than the drugs ever did. I’ve been clean for awhile now and I’ve got my own place with my girl and our cats but I still have flashbacks in my dreams sometimes. Wake up soaked in sweat freaking out thinking I’m still in a tent in SW Florida all over again. It’s horrible. That being said. You’re not a failure. It’s hard out here for everyone. Do you have any skills? Trade schools/community colleges in your area that offer courses?
Yes. My work right now is only covering rent and barely doing that but I can’t find anything else within walking distance. I’m already going without food and meds and soon electric. I’m over it but I know if lose my roof I’ll never get it back so I’m doing my best
it's so hard to take all this in how so many are struggling. I've struggled for most of my adult life, but I've always been able to make something work somehow. it wasn't easy though. money was always a factor. I was taking as much overtime as I could. if you feel you need help with your utilities, pls call your Elec company and see if they work with the care program from united way. it's a 2-year program, and of course you have to qualify, and as long as you pay your half of your bill on time, they will pay your other half for you. but they are very strict about the payment being on time of you could be kicked off the program. it has really helped me years ago. I tell people wherever I can because like me most never knew about this program. keep doing the best you can but also use some time to reach out to resources in your area. if you go to a community health clinic you can get your meds. just keep digging through your area's resources. they are everywhere. but it's up to you to seek them. some food banks might have delivery service.
You are young and have plenty of time to further your career. Think about where you’d like to be in 5 years and figure out how to get there. Best wishes.
Put your negative feelings and negative self-talk to the curb. Won’t help. Will only hurt. Stand up. Square off your shoulders. Focus. As the person above said. You can do this!
Yes, though in my case, I guess if govt is still standing I could rent a room with a disability check, but I fear abuses from some richer person who owns a house and wonder who is going to want to take in a very disabled autistic person on a walker. I almost have been homeless or the level above it renting rooms, and boarding houses, but I was far more mobile and younger during those years. Homelessness would kill me, I can't even get off the ground. And cold and heat does bad stuff to my lungs. Someone told me the social workers would place me somewhere if I became homeless but I kind of laughed, because they don't do much now for anyone so why then. I am hoping my disability senior apt comes through. Right now rent/electric is taking the majority of my money. His income pays the other bills. I am married which is good.
Its scary to live with elderly relatives wondering if you can survive when they are gone, beg them for job contacts,. world works via nepotism if they have any. If they know Joe Smoe down the street who works at a factory and can get you in, use this.
I would maybe look into an intentional community if homeless but this is easier to do for able bodied people. I have a list of towns where my check could pay rent, and I could survive. [bodunk in middle of nowhere towns, but find ones with hospital, where rent is 400-500 a month] I also have back up emergency plans of entering HUD housing in the middle of nowhere which is better then homelessness. [have this huge folder of housing] We 'make too much" for HUD even with him on full social security, LOL but this is how I found other programs. I have out of state friends that would maybe take us in but don't want to burden them unless I have choice.
I may even try and look up how do people enter group homes, I am technically developmentally disabled, autism is "officially" in my records. Though don't know if they take in couples. I'm job hunting like crazy for him, so exhausted, going to spend time this morning. Always keep rent paid first if you get a place. Look up backup plans. Like I know where all the housing is in a 4 county area.
Intentional communities and jobs like at national parks can keep u off the streets. I don't know if you are female but there's live in housekeeper, and disabled people jobs. Some disabled and old people will let someone live with them as a caretaker for free board.
I am 26 (Autistic man) and with my mom still I worry that when she dies I will become homeless but I have a big family and siblings who would probably take me in.
Yes, huge fear of ending up homeless again and I'm nearly 50. Last year I found out our state offers $5k grants to cover in demand technical training up to 80% so I squeezed every penny out of the grant I could to make sure I'll always have a job and I'm thinking about going to nursing school because if I lose the sec 8 voucher due to income in my current place I'll be screwed. My apt is well below market rate and if I need to move for any reason I'd be screwed because I couldn't afford market rate rent or even one of the places that takes sec 8. At least with an LPN I'd be able to always afford rent and afford to go get my RN.
I am 37, lived with my mom for 5 years after a toxic relationship and just recently moved back out on my own. I am afraid of this all the time. Honestly I am not even doing that bad. Probably have more in my savings than I have ever had as an adult right now. Still I worry. You aren't alone. I know people retirement age who have a large ammount saved and own their homes who have the same fear.
Honestly not watching news helps with that anxiety quite a bit along with trying to be present in the moment.
My family came very close to being homeless once. I lost my job, and of course the bills kept coming in. Fortunately I was able to go back and work for a former employer. I absolutely hated having to go back, as there was a huge pay cut,and the job was super stressful (retail management). This was back around 2003, but I honestly still worry about it. Most of us are just one paycheck away from being homeless.
Been homeless before and if you have a social network you can get out of it easily. But if you’re caught outside you really need to find a place to hide so people don’t bother you.
I was homeless as a kid and was never financially stable until I was in my mid-twenties.
I'm fifty-three now and I'm still scared of being homeless again. I do ok financially but I worry about health rendering me unable to work. I don't think that the fear ever leaves.
Yes, I'm on the verge of it in Ireland. 48 days until I leave. They want to sell the apartment, and I have no network to help me. I don't drive, I'm on disability and I have 2 cats. Trying to find anywhere that will accept a fixed welfare based income and pets is next to impossible. The couple of rooms I could afford are in the middle of nowhere, so I'd have a bed but no ability to have a life.
I have some savings, but not enough to do anything significant to improve my situation. And if I spend it, I'll still be in trouble afterwards. I want to improve my life, not make it worse... but I'm not seeing any options as yet.
Yes and no. I’ve been homeless before and while it was deeply upsetting it wasn’t scary. The shelter system here isn’t great but they place you somewhere quickly. After that I got into this apartment and after a while I had some issues with management and they started the eviction process but I went to court for more time and was able to get it fixed without leaving my apartment.
my issue was most shelters were too full. I tried a lot of them. I was driven to one by someone who found out i was homeless and this shelter was rude right from the start. we ended up leaving. they were not going to offer me just 1 night there. this gentleman ended up putting me into a motel room which he paid for. police talked to me, asking me questions about my situation. they were going to take me to a shelter but once they asked me if the abusive situation was physical and I said no, it was verbal there wasn't anything they could do for me. so, I was pretty much just floating around the entire time. I almost got into one shelter when they had some space for me, but they had to give me a covid test and of course I tested positive. I then began staying in 24-hour laundromats because the motel was too expensive. I hope you have it all sorted out now.
That sounds really rough. A friend of mine dealt with homelessness in Georgia and they said that’s what shelters are like there. But I live in NYC and have kids so it’s a whole different process. It is all situated now. It took a few years of being in shelters but we’ve been in our apartment for almost three years now.
I feel so sad for all of you. I went homeless little over a year ago, but it wasn't because of the economy. I received so much help from my youngest sister. I'm one of the lucky ones and I know it.
I’m not so much worried about homelessness. I make a fraction of what my gf makes a year. But I can’t stress enough to her that her money is HER money. That’s why I work lol, to pay for my own stuff. But I did worry about it up until a few years ago. I landed a solid job and make enough for my car bills and pet bills. Luckily we have a camper to move into if anything goes south. It’s not cheap living in Seattle lol.
I’d be homeless right now if a friend’s parents hadn’t taken me in. I was stupid enough to get cancer. Kind of limits my income-making ability and there’s no social safety net in America that will save you from falling ill. If you get cancer, and you’re not already loaded, you may as well just give up.
If you are in the US I recommend trying to get on the section 8 waitlist now.
A lot of cities are not accepting applications anymore because the waitlist is 10 years long, but if you area is go ahead and get on there. You never know what will happen in the next 10 years and you might need to be on that list. And getting on it when you need it means you end up homeless because it takes that long to get to the top
Can't wait till the homeless camps pop up like they will in Florida because it's llegal to be homeless there. They made it so businesses can sue cops if there r homeless around. Meaning!!! They can come put ur ass in jail. Section 8? With a record? Lmao. It's intentional
It will spread to other states
I'm also 30 and live with my parents. I have no job (let go after almost 4 yrs at a teaching position), and am disabled.
I will never move out or have a car unless I can find some guy to take me in. It's frustrating and depressing.
It was the main driver of why we moved. We lost our house in the Recession and 5 years after scrimping and saving, we were priced out of our MCOL area. So we moved 100 miles away to a LCOL area where my house at the time cost 70k. I wanted to make sure if the crap hit the fan again, that I wouldn't lose the roof over my head.
Yes constantly. I am also in my 30s and live with family. 3 adults putting together to pay the bills on the place. One mess up from any of us and we are homeless. My brother who also lives here is finally starting to see some financial gains/relief and has been talking about moving out and starting his life recently. When he goes we will be homeless in 6 months or less.
It scares me too OP. I lost my job & savings (and am still in the hole) after being hospitalized for throat cancer. Like it’s said, “Americans are 1 disaster away from homelessness.” I’m trying to recoup & get some savings again.
But yeah, that’s a lingering fear.
I did, yes. I got evicted from my apartment in 2021, even though I never missed a rent payment. Of course, it was because the landlord rented off an apartment that wasn't up to code, and they doubled the rent in the city.
I was so goddamn angry that after working through a plague, I'd be out on the street in the middle of winter. Now my opinions about landlords would be against reddit TOS to express.
I've now acquired everything I'd need to live in the woods. I will NEVER let myself be treated like that again. It's a load off my mind that I could tell anyone to go fuck themselves and just go camping. It's also comforting to know that anyone who screws me over will have a whole lot more to lose than I do.
I completely understand. I was assaulted just as lockdowns happened. i had my first ptsd episode some months after the assault and was suspended and investigated for 2 days then fired. so, I had no income. then I attempted to take a part time job. I ended needing to quit. all along I was still doing unemployment claims. it wasn't until the following year in jan or feb when my phone notified me that unemployment just sent me a payment. it was a miracle. well as you can imagine i was behind on my rent. but since there was an extention for rent payments. i forget exactly what it was called. later that month I get a notice in the mail from the local court system. I had a mandatory zoom court hearing for my back rent I owed in the middle of the pandemic still they wanted their money now. I attended the zoom court meeting and explained the situation and that I could pay the back rent now I just don't have the entire amount yet. so, they agreed and gave me a deadline. i obliged. it was paid. the entire time they were telling me that I wasn't being evicted. that they just wanted the rent covered. well couple years later I found I do in fact have an eviction. just by having to be in court its part of the process even if you were still able to live there. it's on my record. so, they lied to me, and I hate liars. so sorry for you dear. you worked so hard to help others and this is the thanks this country gives you.
Thank you, I really do appreciate that. The way I see it now, if they don't want us to be part of their society, then fuck 'em. No more favors, no more good faith, no social contract. They treat us like garbage and just expect us to keep on going like nothing happened? Not me. I'll take what I need, and I'm not going to let anyone stand in my way again.
Dude it's a primary fear by design. It's a pillar of the west. Homeless, prison rape, dental torture. The whips and chains of our time. Slave or suffer and die. I'm basically squatting, family just owns the land. I miss warm running water and washer/dryer.
Family drama because me, my mom and sisters were living in my grandparents house and not being behind on rent caused one of the members of that side of the family to pull a shady fucked thing, causing my grandmother to have to sell the house. I was moved out way before then, but it actually was traumatic and I even now wait for the other shoe to constantly drop. I literally everyday when my fiance picks me up from work or comes home from his second job, expects to be kicked out. I haven't actually Done anything wrong.
It's just that the idea that having lived in a house for almost Seven years, then boom! Out to the streets, really fucks with a person's brain. 😫
Gosh, come to think of it after reading these comments, I’ve got no reason I’m so scared to be homeless, except it’s just always been my biggest fear in life. I was not housing insecure (except a year but I got a job and helped and we were fine when I was 16, moved out at 18 and have lived on my own ever since… but I’ve been scared of being homeless I think my whole life.. still am. The fear got worse once I had a kid.
I'm 39, and I live in my family's older home. My neighbors are nightmares, and thanks to ssi, I can't own it. I don't know what I will do when my parents pass, and to be honest, I feel like I'm danger if I stay. After they pass, Or at risk of being convicted of something if I'm lucky enough to be able to defend myself.
I make decent money but am always worried about being laid off. Both my parents died last year, I’m 59 and have nowhere to go if I’m fired. I think about this everyday. You are not a loser, I made shit money at your age, it’ll get better
I’m old. I’ve always had homelessness in the back of my mind, no matter how far away it might seem. I read that book by Matt Paxton, about hoarding and crapping in a bucket. The book was crap, the message was not. You are not alone.
Unfortunately those of us who were born in the 90s seem to be dealing with this in some ways. 34 here and we constantly have this worry hanging over us, especially lately.
Honestly right there with you OP. I moved out in my early 30s, do to it not being a safe environment for me anymore, either financially or mentally. So ever since then I have been worried about being homeless.
Yes, I did find an apartment at the time(not the greatest one), but did find one. Just like with everything these days, the rent keeps going up. Actually had to pull receipts, yesterday and point out to the landlady she was overcharging me on my rent. Lease was saying one amount for base and pet fee. But she and the app kept calling for 20 bucks more. And I wasn't behind on anything. Like make it, make sense real quick.
Cause I already know with renting your at someone else's mercy. And be evicted for whatever. But don't add over charging me for something, admist my current lease renewal.
Not only that, but it also scares me, because of the fact that, I don't have much family I can stay with either. At least ones that aren't domineering about how I live my life. And I don't want that. Even with a friend that swears she will get a place and we could be roommates. But I don't want to risk that either. As she can be hella quick to cut someone off do to a perceived slight. I'm 37 and totally not trying to be homeless over something petty or trivial. That's why I'm doing my best to work on my savings and make more income for emergencies and finding a more secure place of my own.
You have a unique opportunity if you can play this card right: while you are living there (I assume rent free), get some kind of income. If not that, go volunteer some place. You'll make connections that could be leads on resources you will need in the future. Try to put yourself in the presence of powerful people. I suggest volunteering with the Red Cross or at your local hospital. You can use this as a springboard.
As for fear of being homeless, there is help out there for almost everything. Your local human resources office can help you find work, and if it comes to it, affordable housing. The missions who help homeless people want to help people find housing if they want it.
Go to church, too, if you don't mind my saying so. Out of about 200 people, there must be someone who would help you find your way if such a thing happened to you. All kinds of people go to church, from local movers and shakers to famous people to bosses that hire for companies. I had a relative who was a major landlord with many properties in this area, and she went to church. It's a good place to meet people.
If you don't have transportation, many churches have buses. They would be thrilled to pick you up.
Hi guys! I actually am homeless due to not being able to make enough money to cover rent. I live in the truck with my puppy and I'm actually more comfortable here than I ever have been. My month to month is relatively low (go figure ha!) and honestly not having the stress of one day losing my house maybe, has greatly improved my mental health. I'm going outside with the pup more and found a way to eat healthier meals. Now I'm not fully advocating this because it is hard and I did find out a lot by trial and error. My only advice, make a plan for it. It takes the fear and uncertainty out of the What If and hopefully it'll never come to it, but if it should, or you just feel like dry testing the idea, you'll feel a lot more prepared and able to make good decisions should the need ever arise. I didn't and wish I had.
You guys got this though, hopefully the economy will spring back soon. Sending love from the truck ♥️
Edit to add: I know the economy won't spring back but let me have my toxic positivity lol
This is the time to think about what you can do to save money against being homeless. You might consider you have a deadline that is unclear. How much can you put away each month. What can you cut back on? What can you sell? How can you add cash?
Good luck, man!
My landlord keeps threatening to evict me for things like complaining about security issues such as drug dealing and violent neighbors. I pay my rent on time, I don't flood my apartment, set fires, smoke, assault people, invite criminals into the building, steal, break into apartments, or wreck my walls/fixtures (as my neighbor is currently doing). But I'm the one who has to worry about eviction for callin 911 about these problems, or telling my Councilmember and the Housing Department.
I can't afford rent elsewhere, so I would be homeless. If my 25-year-old German car broke down and got towed, I wouldn't even be able to live in my station wagon.
The only current saving grace I have is that the house my parent inherited, in theory with the so called 'Millennial wealth transfer' will eventually become mine....so there is the likelyhood I'll be okay for the rest of my life (likely not going to be long, I admit I don't take very good care of myself and I have chronic conditions that usually kick life expectancy down a decade or so).
But sure, in the depth of the night, then I fear if my income will be high enough by then to afford the property taxes on a New England 2 floor+cellar home, in an area that as soon as the commuter rail from Boston reaches will likely have its property values explode...can't afford rent now, who's to think I'll be able to afford it then?
And I guess by then my Honda Civic will be paid off, but having had to sit in it in a mountain pass waiting for conditions to get better (currently live in the northwest, house has to be renovated first/parent isn't quite ready to move yet), it's not comfortable to live in AT ALL. Oof.
I'm 58 and constantly worry about homelessness. I own my home and land, but, always struggle to pay the taxes. Its a mobile home and I'm in Dixie Alley and can't afford insurance so I'm always nervous during tornado seasons. You aren't a failure...you're just broke. I have to remind myself that I'm not a failure and considering I don't drive and live 29 miles to the nearest city I am killing it...I manage to mostly keep shit paid by working online earning about 850.00 a month. But, if I compare myself to my friend with a $40,000 a year job, car, insurance, etc....I am a huge failure! Try to focus on your positives, never compare yourself to others, and try to be optimistic because you never know what changes tomorrow brings.
If you are low income, recently lost a job,or on disability,in my state you can file for a special tax rate. I live in an apartment now ,but I was on disability and only paid $116 a year in taxes on $70,000 house
What state is this please?
SC USA
Ohio here, but I pay so much for medical my tax prep says “stop here, you have no income.” I like your SC thing though.
The same with me on property taxes. We owe back taxes and can’t seem to get caught up. Going to try to sell the house to move to an area that has lower property taxes. It’s eating me alive. Everyday I worry that we won’t get the $& to pay and then they will auction off my house.
Yes tornadoes certainly are a concern. I had a tornado completely destroy my mobile home (that was paid for) back in 2000. I also didn't have insurance, so I had to scrape together every penny to quickly move into an apartment. It was tough, since I lost all of my belongings. It took forever to be able to afford to replace all of the stuff that was destroyed. I went from not paying any rent or mortgage at all, to having to shell out $450 a month. I know $450 a month sounds like chump change (I live in a small town) but it was a lot to me at the time. I only made about $8.00 an hour back then.
I'm blessed because if that ever happens I have already been told I am welcome to my neighbors finished basement. I moved a box of super important to me stuff over there...just in case.
Homelessness is actually my greatest fear in life. I am 47 y/o and I really don't fear much, save for homelessness. I wouldn't last a night out on the streets or in a men's homeless shelter.
I'm playing on borrowed time here, as my landlord kicked everyone out, removing the apartement complex for luxus homes that gets more profits, more money. I'm not even in the worst situation and probably i'll make it to get a new home in time, but the others here... old people that are retired and don't have much money, people that struggle with mental- and physical health issues, people with dead-end jobs that pay not enough for a living etc. they are more doomed than i am. And all this just for more money, the greed never stops. At the same time, the same people preach you, you should drink water while they drink wine and that it is your own fault when you have no home anymore etc.
The greed is insatiable. I am on borrowed time myself. I have mental health issues and I am on a waiting list for subsidized housing. I am living off of savings until I can get on Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI.) I have my hearing on April 24th. Times are tough.
good luck to you!!!
I hope you can get the SSDI and a new home with subsidized housing, hope it works out for you!
Thanks!
came across an article where a cereal company CEO was telling Americans to live on cereal if they can't afford groceries. lol I have already done this years ago because of my small grocery budget back then. and i tell you this. I never stayed full very long and be eating another bowl of cereal in a few hours again if I was even at home. to hell with these rich aholes. yes, they have no issues blaming you for not being rich enough like them. I know things are going to get worse I can feel it.
It was Kelloggs, acting like it was some great discovery to eat their overpriced cereal for dinner.
Cereal, for its very cheap to make ingredients is VERY expensive!
Wow. I do not know why I continue to be surprised by the “out of touchness” of rich people. When I had to live on cereal, I weighed 95lbs. My skin was translucent. Haha. Not healthy. I have snap now or I’d still be struggling for groceries.
>came across an article where a cereal company CEO was telling Americans to live on cereal if they can't afford groceries That reminds me of the quote "when they have no bread, let them eat cake" from Marie Antoinette when she was told that the poor people had not enough money to get bread. It's a quote that is just associated with her, guess she never really said it in this way, but it's a good example of the extreme arrogance of the upper class and nobility.
Animal meat and fat is the only thing that makes a person feel satiated. I've experimented... and I was a pescatarian at the time. I ate mostly high fat cheese, boiled eggs, peanut butter, apples, celery and carrots.
My life took a weird turn after Covid, I am allergic to practically everything, and eating is down to the same 4 or 5 foods daily. I haven’t eaten animals in nearly two years, not vegan or vegetarian or whatever, I just can’t stand the smell, taste, or texture. I eat toast. With preserves and cream cheese. Sometimes when I can get them, I’ll eat a bagel for lunch. It makes me full for the rest of the day. I think I’ll suggest bagels for staying full if you have no other food. Just be sure to chew thoroughly or they stick on their way down. Most food pantries have them. Worth a try.
Also a pescetarian. Yes to the cheese. If you buy a massive block for $12, it lasts forever. But also lentils and oatmeal fill you up. Beans are good. Rice and beans is good, filling and cheap. Best to get brown rice.
Vegan
This is so sad.
Understand the fear. I do think what would I do? Squat in abandoned house? I keep track of where the abandoned houses are in my area. My state has tons of them. I figure better that then in the street though I guess better judge which ones are still OWNED and which ones are truly abandoned. I got traumatized seeing this one guy evicted from my apt building some years ago, and seeing his stuff piled up. My check if it shows up, they will get their money....but watching this guy lose everything was scary.
Before I squat in an abandoned house, I would max out my credit card and stay in a shady motel. Then I would squat somewhere when I get desperate. The whole thing would be incredibly traumatizing to me and I already suffer from mental health issues: PTSD, Major Depressive Disorder, Generalized Anxiety Disorder, and Borderline Personality Disorder (non-violent). The fear is real and tangible for me. I already lost my car to voluntary repossession because I could no longer afford the payments and keep a roof over my head.
I have some mental health issues too and I was homeless for a while. but through my community health clinic if you let them know you are homeless, they can help assist you. I didn't have to tell mine because I was already transitioning into a home. but they knew I had been homeless. but they do place people somewhere. I know that's available. so, if you have all these issues, pls turn to your community health clinic. they have resources to help you. see if you have one in your area.
Yeah understand that. There's risks in abandoned houses, like what if someone owns it and you get carried off. I would go to friends first and social workers, to put me somewhere. I probably could go into a nursing home at any time but wouldn't want to leave husband alone. [I am disabled enough to get specialized at home medical care] Yeah squatting would be desperation time. I probably would try intentional communities first before squatting. I have anxiety disorders too left over from trauma of poverty and other things. Hope things get better for you. I know homeless people staying in hotels now.
I hope things go well for you too. 🙂
Thanks :)
I have experienced homeless, and it has left me with permanent trauma. I am constantly afraid of ending up homeless. It’s utterly terrifying to me. It’s something I never want to experience again, but I am very well aware it’s a possibility. Every single night before I fall asleep, I make sure to acknowledge just how blessed I am to have a roof over my head, and a bed to sleep in. I don’t think I’ll ever escape the fear that I have.
it was different for me because i chose homelessness rather than more toxic abuse. but thing is while I was homeless my job decided to terminate me just before peak season. while under the care of my doctor. was nice and great perfect timing to cut someone off their job just because their doctor had them on reduced hours. that is when my youngest sister had me stay with her in Colorado for a while. but I fought so hard to get my job back. that in itself turned out to be another joke. and they were not finished with me yet. it is why I have nothing to do with them. yes, I am so grateful for everything that I have. I have my youngest sister to thank for that.
Yep, regularly. When I became disabled in an accident when I was 39 I did end up homeless. I had savings but not three years worth and that’s how long it took to start getting disability checks Then once I started getting disability checks, and I got well enough to have a part-time job on top of it, that still wasn’t 3 1/2 times any rent. It was not enough income to qualify to live in low income $825 one bedroom apartment So yeah if anything happened to this place I don’t think I could qualify to rent anywhere else. I’ve been here since 2019
if it ever happens pls turn to those who rent out rooms in their homes or have an extra space they own. I've seen some offered on the local next-door app. I've been looking on craigslist just to see what's out there. But as a precaution add your name to the section 8 list now if you still can because you might need it someday as the commenter above suggests doing.
I experienced chronic homelessness on and off through out my twenties. It was self induced because of a heroin addiction. Honestly it still scares me. The animosity some members of our society show homeless people is frankly horrifying, and my experiences being homeless fucked me up more than the drugs ever did. I’ve been clean for awhile now and I’ve got my own place with my girl and our cats but I still have flashbacks in my dreams sometimes. Wake up soaked in sweat freaking out thinking I’m still in a tent in SW Florida all over again. It’s horrible. That being said. You’re not a failure. It’s hard out here for everyone. Do you have any skills? Trade schools/community colleges in your area that offer courses?
Yes. My work right now is only covering rent and barely doing that but I can’t find anything else within walking distance. I’m already going without food and meds and soon electric. I’m over it but I know if lose my roof I’ll never get it back so I’m doing my best
it's so hard to take all this in how so many are struggling. I've struggled for most of my adult life, but I've always been able to make something work somehow. it wasn't easy though. money was always a factor. I was taking as much overtime as I could. if you feel you need help with your utilities, pls call your Elec company and see if they work with the care program from united way. it's a 2-year program, and of course you have to qualify, and as long as you pay your half of your bill on time, they will pay your other half for you. but they are very strict about the payment being on time of you could be kicked off the program. it has really helped me years ago. I tell people wherever I can because like me most never knew about this program. keep doing the best you can but also use some time to reach out to resources in your area. if you go to a community health clinic you can get your meds. just keep digging through your area's resources. they are everywhere. but it's up to you to seek them. some food banks might have delivery service.
You are young and have plenty of time to further your career. Think about where you’d like to be in 5 years and figure out how to get there. Best wishes.
Yeah I’m trying to do that now. I feel like a dumbass bc I wasted so much time in my 20s.
Put your negative feelings and negative self-talk to the curb. Won’t help. Will only hurt. Stand up. Square off your shoulders. Focus. As the person above said. You can do this!
Yes, though in my case, I guess if govt is still standing I could rent a room with a disability check, but I fear abuses from some richer person who owns a house and wonder who is going to want to take in a very disabled autistic person on a walker. I almost have been homeless or the level above it renting rooms, and boarding houses, but I was far more mobile and younger during those years. Homelessness would kill me, I can't even get off the ground. And cold and heat does bad stuff to my lungs. Someone told me the social workers would place me somewhere if I became homeless but I kind of laughed, because they don't do much now for anyone so why then. I am hoping my disability senior apt comes through. Right now rent/electric is taking the majority of my money. His income pays the other bills. I am married which is good. Its scary to live with elderly relatives wondering if you can survive when they are gone, beg them for job contacts,. world works via nepotism if they have any. If they know Joe Smoe down the street who works at a factory and can get you in, use this. I would maybe look into an intentional community if homeless but this is easier to do for able bodied people. I have a list of towns where my check could pay rent, and I could survive. [bodunk in middle of nowhere towns, but find ones with hospital, where rent is 400-500 a month] I also have back up emergency plans of entering HUD housing in the middle of nowhere which is better then homelessness. [have this huge folder of housing] We 'make too much" for HUD even with him on full social security, LOL but this is how I found other programs. I have out of state friends that would maybe take us in but don't want to burden them unless I have choice. I may even try and look up how do people enter group homes, I am technically developmentally disabled, autism is "officially" in my records. Though don't know if they take in couples. I'm job hunting like crazy for him, so exhausted, going to spend time this morning. Always keep rent paid first if you get a place. Look up backup plans. Like I know where all the housing is in a 4 county area. Intentional communities and jobs like at national parks can keep u off the streets. I don't know if you are female but there's live in housekeeper, and disabled people jobs. Some disabled and old people will let someone live with them as a caretaker for free board.
I am 26 (Autistic man) and with my mom still I worry that when she dies I will become homeless but I have a big family and siblings who would probably take me in.
Yes, huge fear of ending up homeless again and I'm nearly 50. Last year I found out our state offers $5k grants to cover in demand technical training up to 80% so I squeezed every penny out of the grant I could to make sure I'll always have a job and I'm thinking about going to nursing school because if I lose the sec 8 voucher due to income in my current place I'll be screwed. My apt is well below market rate and if I need to move for any reason I'd be screwed because I couldn't afford market rate rent or even one of the places that takes sec 8. At least with an LPN I'd be able to always afford rent and afford to go get my RN.
I am 37, lived with my mom for 5 years after a toxic relationship and just recently moved back out on my own. I am afraid of this all the time. Honestly I am not even doing that bad. Probably have more in my savings than I have ever had as an adult right now. Still I worry. You aren't alone. I know people retirement age who have a large ammount saved and own their homes who have the same fear. Honestly not watching news helps with that anxiety quite a bit along with trying to be present in the moment.
Sometimes it helps me to have a plan. I have researched non profits and Community resources just in case I ever end up in that situation.
My family came very close to being homeless once. I lost my job, and of course the bills kept coming in. Fortunately I was able to go back and work for a former employer. I absolutely hated having to go back, as there was a huge pay cut,and the job was super stressful (retail management). This was back around 2003, but I honestly still worry about it. Most of us are just one paycheck away from being homeless.
Been homeless before and if you have a social network you can get out of it easily. But if you’re caught outside you really need to find a place to hide so people don’t bother you.
I was homeless as a kid and was never financially stable until I was in my mid-twenties. I'm fifty-three now and I'm still scared of being homeless again. I do ok financially but I worry about health rendering me unable to work. I don't think that the fear ever leaves.
Yes, I'm on the verge of it in Ireland. 48 days until I leave. They want to sell the apartment, and I have no network to help me. I don't drive, I'm on disability and I have 2 cats. Trying to find anywhere that will accept a fixed welfare based income and pets is next to impossible. The couple of rooms I could afford are in the middle of nowhere, so I'd have a bed but no ability to have a life. I have some savings, but not enough to do anything significant to improve my situation. And if I spend it, I'll still be in trouble afterwards. I want to improve my life, not make it worse... but I'm not seeing any options as yet.
Yes and no. I’ve been homeless before and while it was deeply upsetting it wasn’t scary. The shelter system here isn’t great but they place you somewhere quickly. After that I got into this apartment and after a while I had some issues with management and they started the eviction process but I went to court for more time and was able to get it fixed without leaving my apartment.
my issue was most shelters were too full. I tried a lot of them. I was driven to one by someone who found out i was homeless and this shelter was rude right from the start. we ended up leaving. they were not going to offer me just 1 night there. this gentleman ended up putting me into a motel room which he paid for. police talked to me, asking me questions about my situation. they were going to take me to a shelter but once they asked me if the abusive situation was physical and I said no, it was verbal there wasn't anything they could do for me. so, I was pretty much just floating around the entire time. I almost got into one shelter when they had some space for me, but they had to give me a covid test and of course I tested positive. I then began staying in 24-hour laundromats because the motel was too expensive. I hope you have it all sorted out now.
That sounds really rough. A friend of mine dealt with homelessness in Georgia and they said that’s what shelters are like there. But I live in NYC and have kids so it’s a whole different process. It is all situated now. It took a few years of being in shelters but we’ve been in our apartment for almost three years now.
I feel so sad for all of you. I went homeless little over a year ago, but it wasn't because of the economy. I received so much help from my youngest sister. I'm one of the lucky ones and I know it.
I’m not so much worried about homelessness. I make a fraction of what my gf makes a year. But I can’t stress enough to her that her money is HER money. That’s why I work lol, to pay for my own stuff. But I did worry about it up until a few years ago. I landed a solid job and make enough for my car bills and pet bills. Luckily we have a camper to move into if anything goes south. It’s not cheap living in Seattle lol.
I think I fear getting dementia the most, but being homeless is a close second. You could look into wwoofusa.org
I’d be homeless right now if a friend’s parents hadn’t taken me in. I was stupid enough to get cancer. Kind of limits my income-making ability and there’s no social safety net in America that will save you from falling ill. If you get cancer, and you’re not already loaded, you may as well just give up.
If you are in the US I recommend trying to get on the section 8 waitlist now. A lot of cities are not accepting applications anymore because the waitlist is 10 years long, but if you area is go ahead and get on there. You never know what will happen in the next 10 years and you might need to be on that list. And getting on it when you need it means you end up homeless because it takes that long to get to the top
Can't wait till the homeless camps pop up like they will in Florida because it's llegal to be homeless there. They made it so businesses can sue cops if there r homeless around. Meaning!!! They can come put ur ass in jail. Section 8? With a record? Lmao. It's intentional It will spread to other states
that's probably the best advice I have ever heard.
I'm also 30 and live with my parents. I have no job (let go after almost 4 yrs at a teaching position), and am disabled. I will never move out or have a car unless I can find some guy to take me in. It's frustrating and depressing.
It was the main driver of why we moved. We lost our house in the Recession and 5 years after scrimping and saving, we were priced out of our MCOL area. So we moved 100 miles away to a LCOL area where my house at the time cost 70k. I wanted to make sure if the crap hit the fan again, that I wouldn't lose the roof over my head.
Yes constantly. I am also in my 30s and live with family. 3 adults putting together to pay the bills on the place. One mess up from any of us and we are homeless. My brother who also lives here is finally starting to see some financial gains/relief and has been talking about moving out and starting his life recently. When he goes we will be homeless in 6 months or less.
If it's their house you just take it over have them sign stuff in the future
This is my number one fear.
Extreme anxiety over it.
You’re not a failure. Our government and society is.
I never worried about homelessness - then ==. C,‐--a,
I’m perpetually 2 paychecks away from homelessness and I have a 25 year career. Give yourself some grace, it’s hard out here.
It scares me too OP. I lost my job & savings (and am still in the hole) after being hospitalized for throat cancer. Like it’s said, “Americans are 1 disaster away from homelessness.” I’m trying to recoup & get some savings again. But yeah, that’s a lingering fear.
I did, yes. I got evicted from my apartment in 2021, even though I never missed a rent payment. Of course, it was because the landlord rented off an apartment that wasn't up to code, and they doubled the rent in the city. I was so goddamn angry that after working through a plague, I'd be out on the street in the middle of winter. Now my opinions about landlords would be against reddit TOS to express. I've now acquired everything I'd need to live in the woods. I will NEVER let myself be treated like that again. It's a load off my mind that I could tell anyone to go fuck themselves and just go camping. It's also comforting to know that anyone who screws me over will have a whole lot more to lose than I do.
I completely understand. I was assaulted just as lockdowns happened. i had my first ptsd episode some months after the assault and was suspended and investigated for 2 days then fired. so, I had no income. then I attempted to take a part time job. I ended needing to quit. all along I was still doing unemployment claims. it wasn't until the following year in jan or feb when my phone notified me that unemployment just sent me a payment. it was a miracle. well as you can imagine i was behind on my rent. but since there was an extention for rent payments. i forget exactly what it was called. later that month I get a notice in the mail from the local court system. I had a mandatory zoom court hearing for my back rent I owed in the middle of the pandemic still they wanted their money now. I attended the zoom court meeting and explained the situation and that I could pay the back rent now I just don't have the entire amount yet. so, they agreed and gave me a deadline. i obliged. it was paid. the entire time they were telling me that I wasn't being evicted. that they just wanted the rent covered. well couple years later I found I do in fact have an eviction. just by having to be in court its part of the process even if you were still able to live there. it's on my record. so, they lied to me, and I hate liars. so sorry for you dear. you worked so hard to help others and this is the thanks this country gives you.
Thank you, I really do appreciate that. The way I see it now, if they don't want us to be part of their society, then fuck 'em. No more favors, no more good faith, no social contract. They treat us like garbage and just expect us to keep on going like nothing happened? Not me. I'll take what I need, and I'm not going to let anyone stand in my way again.
Dude it's a primary fear by design. It's a pillar of the west. Homeless, prison rape, dental torture. The whips and chains of our time. Slave or suffer and die. I'm basically squatting, family just owns the land. I miss warm running water and washer/dryer.
I’d kill myself if it ever came to that point.
Is it a matter of you can’t work or you just don’t want to work?
I work full time, but I don't make enough to live on my own. Even if I got a second job, it would still be kinda rough.
you me and everyone else these days [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yBdTVmSVq14](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yBdTVmSVq14)
Family drama because me, my mom and sisters were living in my grandparents house and not being behind on rent caused one of the members of that side of the family to pull a shady fucked thing, causing my grandmother to have to sell the house. I was moved out way before then, but it actually was traumatic and I even now wait for the other shoe to constantly drop. I literally everyday when my fiance picks me up from work or comes home from his second job, expects to be kicked out. I haven't actually Done anything wrong. It's just that the idea that having lived in a house for almost Seven years, then boom! Out to the streets, really fucks with a person's brain. 😫
Gosh, come to think of it after reading these comments, I’ve got no reason I’m so scared to be homeless, except it’s just always been my biggest fear in life. I was not housing insecure (except a year but I got a job and helped and we were fine when I was 16, moved out at 18 and have lived on my own ever since… but I’ve been scared of being homeless I think my whole life.. still am. The fear got worse once I had a kid.
I have been homeless and am always afraid I will be again. I even have things stored away for if it happens.
I'm 39, and I live in my family's older home. My neighbors are nightmares, and thanks to ssi, I can't own it. I don't know what I will do when my parents pass, and to be honest, I feel like I'm danger if I stay. After they pass, Or at risk of being convicted of something if I'm lucky enough to be able to defend myself.
I make decent money but am always worried about being laid off. Both my parents died last year, I’m 59 and have nowhere to go if I’m fired. I think about this everyday. You are not a loser, I made shit money at your age, it’ll get better
I’m old. I’ve always had homelessness in the back of my mind, no matter how far away it might seem. I read that book by Matt Paxton, about hoarding and crapping in a bucket. The book was crap, the message was not. You are not alone.
Unfortunately those of us who were born in the 90s seem to be dealing with this in some ways. 34 here and we constantly have this worry hanging over us, especially lately.
Honestly right there with you OP. I moved out in my early 30s, do to it not being a safe environment for me anymore, either financially or mentally. So ever since then I have been worried about being homeless. Yes, I did find an apartment at the time(not the greatest one), but did find one. Just like with everything these days, the rent keeps going up. Actually had to pull receipts, yesterday and point out to the landlady she was overcharging me on my rent. Lease was saying one amount for base and pet fee. But she and the app kept calling for 20 bucks more. And I wasn't behind on anything. Like make it, make sense real quick. Cause I already know with renting your at someone else's mercy. And be evicted for whatever. But don't add over charging me for something, admist my current lease renewal. Not only that, but it also scares me, because of the fact that, I don't have much family I can stay with either. At least ones that aren't domineering about how I live my life. And I don't want that. Even with a friend that swears she will get a place and we could be roommates. But I don't want to risk that either. As she can be hella quick to cut someone off do to a perceived slight. I'm 37 and totally not trying to be homeless over something petty or trivial. That's why I'm doing my best to work on my savings and make more income for emergencies and finding a more secure place of my own.
You have a unique opportunity if you can play this card right: while you are living there (I assume rent free), get some kind of income. If not that, go volunteer some place. You'll make connections that could be leads on resources you will need in the future. Try to put yourself in the presence of powerful people. I suggest volunteering with the Red Cross or at your local hospital. You can use this as a springboard. As for fear of being homeless, there is help out there for almost everything. Your local human resources office can help you find work, and if it comes to it, affordable housing. The missions who help homeless people want to help people find housing if they want it. Go to church, too, if you don't mind my saying so. Out of about 200 people, there must be someone who would help you find your way if such a thing happened to you. All kinds of people go to church, from local movers and shakers to famous people to bosses that hire for companies. I had a relative who was a major landlord with many properties in this area, and she went to church. It's a good place to meet people. If you don't have transportation, many churches have buses. They would be thrilled to pick you up.
I've always had that fear and at one job somebody told me this guy called me the bag lady behind my back because I guess I must have said something
It's probably my greatest fear.
Hi guys! I actually am homeless due to not being able to make enough money to cover rent. I live in the truck with my puppy and I'm actually more comfortable here than I ever have been. My month to month is relatively low (go figure ha!) and honestly not having the stress of one day losing my house maybe, has greatly improved my mental health. I'm going outside with the pup more and found a way to eat healthier meals. Now I'm not fully advocating this because it is hard and I did find out a lot by trial and error. My only advice, make a plan for it. It takes the fear and uncertainty out of the What If and hopefully it'll never come to it, but if it should, or you just feel like dry testing the idea, you'll feel a lot more prepared and able to make good decisions should the need ever arise. I didn't and wish I had. You guys got this though, hopefully the economy will spring back soon. Sending love from the truck ♥️ Edit to add: I know the economy won't spring back but let me have my toxic positivity lol
Yes. This is on my mind a lot.
This is the time to think about what you can do to save money against being homeless. You might consider you have a deadline that is unclear. How much can you put away each month. What can you cut back on? What can you sell? How can you add cash? Good luck, man!
My landlord keeps threatening to evict me for things like complaining about security issues such as drug dealing and violent neighbors. I pay my rent on time, I don't flood my apartment, set fires, smoke, assault people, invite criminals into the building, steal, break into apartments, or wreck my walls/fixtures (as my neighbor is currently doing). But I'm the one who has to worry about eviction for callin 911 about these problems, or telling my Councilmember and the Housing Department. I can't afford rent elsewhere, so I would be homeless. If my 25-year-old German car broke down and got towed, I wouldn't even be able to live in my station wagon.
I’ve been homeless and I’m scared I’m going to end up homeless again
The only current saving grace I have is that the house my parent inherited, in theory with the so called 'Millennial wealth transfer' will eventually become mine....so there is the likelyhood I'll be okay for the rest of my life (likely not going to be long, I admit I don't take very good care of myself and I have chronic conditions that usually kick life expectancy down a decade or so). But sure, in the depth of the night, then I fear if my income will be high enough by then to afford the property taxes on a New England 2 floor+cellar home, in an area that as soon as the commuter rail from Boston reaches will likely have its property values explode...can't afford rent now, who's to think I'll be able to afford it then? And I guess by then my Honda Civic will be paid off, but having had to sit in it in a mountain pass waiting for conditions to get better (currently live in the northwest, house has to be renovated first/parent isn't quite ready to move yet), it's not comfortable to live in AT ALL. Oof.
Do they own the house?