Latest news with #Thumbtack
Axios
15-07-2025
- Business
- Axios
Boulder startup Ridley aims to revolutionize home sales with AI
A Boulder entrepreneur who sold his own house without a real estate agent — and went viral doing it — is launching a startup Tuesday to help others do the same. Why it matters: Real estate commissions, typically 5%-6%, remain stubbornly high, even after last year's landmark antitrust settlement was supposed to shake up how agents get paid. Driving the news: Mike Chambers is debuting his AI-fueled agent-free platform Ridley in Colorado. He made national headlines earlier this year when he successfully sought to prove he could sell his house without an agent after taking to social media with the handle @realtorshateme to chronicle the DIY process. He says most sellers don't need an agent — just the right tools. Ridley aims to be that toolkit. What he's saying: "The No. 1 mission of this company is to empower consumers to take control of this process on their own and save tens of thousands of dollars in unnecessary fees in the process," Chambers told Axios Denver. How it works: Ridley's desktop-only platform breaks the home-selling process into stages with checklists, AI guidance and human support. Tools include: Pricing guidance using AI that factors in upgrades, defects, features and market data. A property page builder for direct offers and showings. MLS access via partner brokerages, plus syndication to Zillow, Redfin and A document center with smart pre-filled forms and highlighted explanations. A vendor scheduler via Thumbtack for photographers, inspectors and more. By the numbers: It's $999 for the base service, with add-ons available for MLS access and legal support. Between the lines: Despite his cheeky Instagram handle, Chambers insists he's not "anti-agent" — just anti-system. He's also not naive. He "100%" expects industry backlash. What's next: Chambers plans to expand Ridley to other states. He's also building out an agent mode for professionals who want to use the same tools or offer à la carte services to sellers who still want a hand.
Business Wire
18-06-2025
- Business
- Business Wire
Redfin and Thumbtack Team Up to Help Homeowners Find the Right Professional for Every Project
SEATTLE--(BUSINESS WIRE)--(NASDAQ: RDFN) — Redfin, the technology-powered real estate company and Thumbtack, a technology company helping millions of people confidently care for their homes, are partnering to help homeowners find and hire the right professionals for their home projects. Homeowners can now browse popular services, connect with trusted pros, read reviews from past customers, and get cost estimates—all by simply claiming their home on Redfin and visiting their Owner Dashboard. This new feature will help homeowners more easily tackle home improvement projects, especially those preparing to sell in a market that increasingly favors buyers. 'Today's buyers are more selective about the homes they'll offer on,' said Connie Durnal, a Redfin Premier agent in Dallas. 'Nearly everyone is looking for something move-in ready, and if they think they'll have to paint a room or replace a faucet, they may move on to the next home. That's why I'm encouraging all of my sellers to go the extra mile and make their home the shining star.' The feature is also useful for homeowners completing seasonal maintenance or planning larger renovations. In just a few clicks, they can discover and book services like painting, landscaping, or even simpler tasks like window and carpet cleaning to help them get the most out of their home. 'Millions of people will use Redfin to find a home this year, and our partnership with Thumbtack helps them care for that home long after they move in,' said Ariel Dos Santos, Redfin's senior vice president of product and design. 'By recommending trusted pros for home improvement projects, we're saving customers time and hassle while helping them maximize the value of their home. It's just one way we make the homeownership journey smoother from start to finish.' 'We're excited to partner with Redfin to support homeowners through their entire home journey—from the buying and selling process to managing, maintaining, and improving their homes,' said Michael Kim, Thumbtack's vice president of strategy and business development. 'Through this partnership, Redfin users will have access to Thumbtack's community of trusted pros to accomplish all of their home goals. From inspections to repairs, improvements, and ongoing upkeep, homeowners can now confidently navigate homeownership at every stage.' To find a local pro, owners can claim their home on Redfin and visit their Owner Dashboard. Under 'Home Improvements,' they can search for a variety of projects—from house cleaning to HVAC maintenance—and Thumbtack's AI-powered system intelligently connects them with the right pros for their specific needs. Owners who need more project inspiration can also browse a list of trending services in their area. Additionally, the Redfin Owner Dashboard helps homeowners track the latest estimate of their home's value, learn about local market trends, and connect with a local Redfin agent to initiate the selling process. The feature is currently available on and the Android app. To learn more about the partnership and how to connect with trusted pros in your area, visit: About Redfin Redfin ( is a technology-powered real estate company. We help people find a place to live with brokerage, rentals, lending, and title insurance services. We run the country's #1 real estate brokerage site. Our customers can save thousands in fees while working with a top agent. Our home-buying customers see homes first with on-demand tours, and our lending and title services help them close quickly. Our rentals business empowers millions nationwide to find apartments and houses for rent. Since launching in 2006, we've saved customers more than $1.8 billion in commissions. We serve approximately 100 markets across the U.S. and Canada and employ over 4,000 people. Redfin's subsidiaries and affiliated brands include: Bay Equity Home Loans®, Rent.™, Apartment Guide®, Title Forward® and Walk Score®. For more information or to contact a local Redfin real estate agent, visit To learn about housing market trends and download data, visit the Redfin Data Center. To be added to Redfin's press release distribution list, email press@ To view Redfin's press center, click here. Redfin-F About Thumbtack We're Thumbtack, a technology company helping millions of people confidently care for and improve their homes. Our homeowners get personalized guidance on what to do and when to do it as well as who to hire from our growing community of 300,000 local service businesses. Every day in every county of the U.S., people turn to Thumbtack to complete small fixes, routine maintenance, and major improvements. With over 12 million 5-star projects and counting, we empower homeowners to take control and local businesses to grow. Accomplish more with Thumbtack.
Copts Today
17-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Copts Today
Celebrate Your LA Graduation with an Exciting Hibachi Catering Party
Graduation is one of lifes biggest accomplishments, marking the end of an academic journey and the start of a new adventure. If youre in Los Angeles and looking for a unique, fun, and delicious way to celebrate, why not throw a Hibachi Catering party? Combining mouthwatering Japanese cuisine, live entertainment, and a vibrant atmosphere, a Hibachi party will make your graduation celebration unforgettable. Los Angeles is known for its diverse food scene, and Hibachi stands out as an interactive dining experience thats perfect for celebrations. Heres why a Hibachi party is ideal for your graduation: Entertainment & Dining Combined Unlike a typical buffet or plated dinner, Hibachi chefs put on a showflipping shrimp, creating fiery onion volcanoes, and engaging guests with their skills. Fresh, Customizable Meals From juicy filet mignon and teriyaki chicken to seafood and vegetarian options, Hibachi caters to all tastes. Plus, LAs top Hibachi chefs use high-quality, fresh ingredients. Great for Groups Big or Small Whether youre hosting an intimate gathering in your backyard or a larger event at a venue, Hibachi catering adapts seamlessly. Instagram-Worthy Moments Between the chefs tricks, sizzling grill action, and beautifully plated dishes, your party will be full of photo ops. LA has many talented private Hibachi chefs who can bring the experience to your home, venue, or even a scenic outdoor spot. Some top-rated options include: Private Hibachi Chefs (available on platforms like Thumbtack or Yelp) Local Japanese Steakhouses (some offer off-site catering) Pop-Up Hibachi Experiences (great for unique locations like rooftops or beaches) 2. Pick the Perfect LA Venue If youre not hosting at home, consider these fun LA spots: Backyard BBQ Setup Ideal for a relaxed, private celebration. Beachside Grill Party Some chefs will set up near Santa Monica or Malibu for a sunset Hibachi experience. Rooftop Lounge Many Downtown LA venues allow private Hibachi catering with skyline views. 3. Enhance the Theme with LA Flair Since youre in Los Angeles, why not blend Hibachi with some local vibes? Decor: Mix Japanese lanterns with palm leaves or Hollywood-themed centerpieces. Music: Play a mix of upbeat tracksmaybe some city-inspired hits or chill lo-fi beats. Drinks: Serve signature cocktails like matcha margaritas or sake spritzers. 4. Customize the Menu for Your Guests Work with your Hibachi chef to create a menu that includes: Appetizers: Spicy tuna rolls, crispy tempura, or miso-glazed eggplant. Main Grill Options: Garlic butter shrimp, ribeye steak, or tofu for vegetarians. Dessert: Green tea tiramisu or mochi ice cream for a sweet finish. 5. Add Personal Touches Graduation Caps as Table Decor Use mini caps or diploma scrolls as place settings. Photo Booth Set up a fun backdrop with props like samurai swords or chef hats. Speech or Toast Thank your guests and share a few words before the chef starts the show. Why LA Hibachi Catering Stands Out Los Angeles is a city that loves good food and great vibes, and a Hibachi party delivers both. The sizzling grill, the chefs playful interactions, and the delicious flavors make it a far more exciting option than a standard graduation dinner. Plus, with LAs amazing weather, you can host it outdoors for an even more memorable experience.
Forbes
28-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Forbes
The Year Of The Backyard: Creating An Outdoor Entertaining Hub
Photo courtesy of Last year, Thumbtack proclaimed 2024 as The Year of The Backyard, but has that trend still relevant? 'In 2024, we saw a rise in homeowners focusing on projects that improve their outdoor spaces, and as more people choose to stay put and invest in their current homes, that trend shows no signs of slowing down,' says Morgan Olsen, Thumbtack's interior design expert. In 2025, she tells me that homeowners are far more likely to focus on the home projects that bring them joy. 'Having a personalized outdoor space makes it easier to host, enjoy meaningful moments with family, and relax,' she explain. Tese are some tips to help you create an outdoor entertaining hub. Photo courtesy of A thoughtfully designed outdoor retreat maximizes aesthetics and function. In the design above, Catherine Trudeau, partner at The Outdoor Design Studio, tells me that every detail was considered to create distinct yet cohesive spaces for dining, entertaining, and relaxing, all while maintaining a degree of privacy. 'A raised deck provides a graceful transition to the elevated rear entry, while a wooden slat wall offers seclusion for intimate meals,' she says. 'Below, a bluestone patio under a pergola becomes the heart of the space, anchored by a fire table and framed by hornbeams and cedar fencing for a warm, secluded feel.' Photo courtesy of For this project, Trudeau weaved hardscape and softscape togetter to create a seamless and inviting retreat. 'Working closely with the interior designer and client, we crafted a landscape that feels both lush and intentional, serving as an extension of a home designed for comfort, beauty, and everyday living,' she explains. Trudeau recommends the use of plantings to establish soft boundaries between zones in outdoor spaces. 'A screen wall offers privacy from neighboring homes, while surrounding greenery gives the impression of being fully enveloped in nature, ideal for lively outdoor gatherings,' she says. Photo courtesy of One thing that can ruin outdoor entertaining in the summer: insects. Leigh Spicher, national director of design studios for Ashton Woods, acknowledges that no one wants to share space with bugs. 'If you screen in a small patio, you are not only keeping bugs out, but creating a defined room and area for your outdoor relaxation,' she says. Photo courtesy of Screening in your pool can also make it a more comfortable place to entertain and relax. 'Screened-in pool Screenspaces are ideal for entertaining, especially with both a pool and a hot tub,' says Rafi Friedman, president of Coastal Luxury Outdoors. In addition to protection from bugs, Friedman explains that there's some protection from the sun. 'And the pool deck provides room for seating and access to the house,' he adds. Photo courtesy of Friedman says he's also seeing more demand for at-home sports surfaces. 'Putting greens, basketball courts, and pickleball courts are especially popular, and make for great entertaining space.' And if you're on a budget, Friedman says you can get a similar effect; however, he notes that a properly built-in playing surface can elevate your backyard barbecue experience. Photo courtesy of Many people only consider the front yard when thinking about curb appeal. However, Sue Kim, director of color marketing at Valspar, tells me that homeowners should think about giving some love and attention to the back of the house as well. 'Consider statement paints and stains formulated for outdoor wood decks and concrete or stone patios for colorful backyard appeal,' she says. If you have a traditional home featuring neutral siding, Kim recommends making a bold statement on wooden decks and shutters by tinting semi-transparent stain to dark, rich colors like Very Black 5011-2. This hue's cool undertone pairs well with homes painted in light to medium grays and light blues,' Kim explains. Photo courtesy of 'Contemporary style homes are style chameleons and offer a chance to go bold on the exterior and energize an outdoor hangout space with a fiery color, like using a solid stain on a deck or porch in red, such as Cut Ruby 1009-4,' Kim says. Photo courtesy of According to Kevin Lenhart, design director at Yardzen, flexibility is an asset in entertaining spaces. 'You want to be able to accommodate a range of different users, group sizes, and activities, especially if you are limited on space or budget,' he says. Lenhart admits that it's possible to go too far and design a space that's just blank. 'The trick is to be forward enough with your design to establish character, to make a real place, but not to limit your functional breadth,' he tells me. Photo courtesy of Lenhart also recommends committing to a single aesthetic. 'You don't want your ice cream to be every flavor, you want it to be your favorite flavor.' People respect authenticity and originality, and he says you don't have to reinvent the wheel, but says you shouldn't be afraid to make your space a reflection of you. 'Your own personal tastes, artifacts or references to your personal story, homages to places you love, or things you hope to do, these are all fertile ground to build a space that has a truly compelling an unique character,' he explains. Photo courtesy of However, as a general rule, Lenhart warns against barriers – using such examples as built in seating, sealing up patio boundaries, or cosmetic grade changes introduced to divide up spaces. 'Barriers separating spaces inhibit the ability to spill out of one area into an adjacent space, and in so doing, limit the amount of people that can fit in a space.' And he notes that they also pinch flow between spaces, and make areas seem smaller. Instead of lining an entire path or patio edge with plants, Lenhart recommends drop-in pockets of planting. 'Leave large gaps between to facilitate easy flow and a strong sense of interconnection between adjacent spaces,' he says. Photo courtesy of When creating an outdoor space for entertaining, keep in mind that people love options. 'An ideal entertaining yard will have a range of spaces, each offering something unique,' Lenhart recommends. 'Include spaces that feel expansive, others that are cozy and enclosed; spaces for big, medium, and small groups, as well as nooks for intimate conversations.' Another tip is to have polished and upscale spaces, along with earthy and casual space. 'Every part of the design should fit within the poles of whatever aesthetic identity you are going for, but within those poles, roam around.' These are some of the items that can help you create an outdoor entertaining hub. Photo courtesy of Impress and delight your guest with the Ninja Swirl by Creami Ice Cream Maker. It can make everything from frozen yogurt and spft serve ice cream to frozen custard to sorbet, gelato, and milk shakes. And since you can control the ingredients, you can make the treats as healthy or as decadent as desired. In addition, three's an option to scoop the treats out of the container (on the right side of the machine) or dispense single servings into ice cream cones (on the left side of the machine). Photo courtesy of The Nebula X1 Triple Laser 4K Projector will allow you to compete with your local movie theatre. The 4K projector has 3,500 ANSI lumens, and the ultra-high contrast performance (5,000:1 native contrast, 56,000:1 dynamic contrast) lets you see every shade of darkness. Google TV provides access to Netflix, Prime Video, Apple TV, Hulu, and more. The projector includes Dolby Audio, 40 watts of sound, 55 Hz of bass, and 87dB of loudness for clear, realistic, and immersive sound. Photo courtesy of You'll be the mixologist in chief with the Bartesian Cocktail Making Machine. Merely insert a capsule, select a strength, and then press a button to create a cocktail, such as a martini, daiquiri, and more in just a few seconds. The capsules are sold separately, and some of the many capsules include strawberry lemon drop, blueberry lemon drop, 19th hole, cupid's arrow, Manhattan, blackberry margarita, espresso martini, passion fruit margarita, Long Island iced tea, and more. Photos courtesy of Keep the party going with the Ultimate Ears Megaboom 4 Portable Speaker. The Bluetooth speaker is waterproof – and can actually float on water. It has a 24-hour battery life, provides 360-degree bass, and is available in several colors. Another option is the Klipsch Detroit Portable Speaker, which has an IP67 dust and waterproof rating, and the removable strap makes it easy to transport. With a built-in microphone, you can also pause the music and take phone calls. Photo courtesy of Quickly prepare food for your guests with the Cuisinart Air Fryer Toaster Oven and Grill. The large capacity interior can air fry up to 3 pounds of food, bake a 12' pizza, and more. It can roast, toast, bake, air fry, grill, broil, and keep food warm until your guests are ready to eat. Photos courtesy of Keep a breeze going outdoors with a high-powered portable fan. The Shark FlexBreeze Fan with InstaCool Mist Attachment is designed to adjust in height from a tabletop to a pedestal fan. It can be used corded or cordless (20 hours), and the misting attachment can keep you up to 10 degrees cooler. If you prefer a tower fan, the Dreo Smart Tower Fan Pilot Max S can cool guests up to 27 feet away, and has 12 speeds. It's a quiet fan that can be controlled via your smartphone or you can use voice control. Photo courtesy of Your adult guests will enjoy sampling the Laithwaite's Grilling & Chilling Wine Collection, which includes rich BBQ reds and cool whites. Some of the choices in the collection are a 93-point Cabernet, gold-medal Rhône red, and more rich reds to drink with grilled treats. Guests can also enjoy 92-point New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc, a vibrant Italian white blend. and more. Photo courtesy of For karaoke, the Soundcore Rave 3S AI Karaoke Party Speaker helps guests loosen up. The 200 watt speaker has dynamic lights that sync with the music. Two wireless microphones let your guests sing duets as well. Also, the AI removal feature can remove the original vocals from any song selected from an app. Photo courtesy of You may prefer to engage in indoor grilling and then take the food outside. The Hammacher Schlemmer BBQ Grill Pan evenly distributes heat and reduces cooking time by up to 20%. It has a nonstock surface and is oven safe to 500 degrees F - and also dishwasher safe. Photo courtesy of Guests who prefer non-alcoholic drinks will enjoy Ghia Apertif Non-Alcoholic Drinks. Free from alcohol, added sugar, caffeine, and artificial flavors, some of the options include Ghia-Ginger, Ghia Soda (citrusy and earthy), Sumac and Chili, and Lime and Salt. Photo courtesy of If you prefer to serve ready-made ice cream to your guests, pints of McConnell's Fine Ice Cream are sure to please, Some of the many flavors include Mint Cookies & Cream, Cookie Butter, Orange Cream Sherbet, Strawberries and Shortbread Cookies, Coffee with Molasses Chips, and Dark Chocolate Sorbet. The company also sells gigantic cookies.
Yahoo
17-05-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
4 Times When Spending Extra To Save Time Is Worth It, According to Rachel Cruze
Doing things yourself to save cash makes sense when you're on a tight budget or working on goals like paying off debt. But if your financial situation supports it, having someone else do the work can give you more time to do enjoyable things like exercise or visit loved ones, and reduce your stress. In a recent YouTube video, personal finance expert Rachel Cruze discussed four times she's found it worth spending extra to save time and have more balance. She recommended considering these ideas once you're debt-free with emergency savings. Cruze said hiring a house cleaner is great for reclaiming time, especially if you've got a busy schedule. She started with a monthly service and eventually moved to a weekly cleaning once her budget allowed for it. According to Angi, you can expect to pay about $25 to $80 an hour for a house cleaner, depending on your house's features and the level of cleaning. You might get a better deal if you set up more frequent cleanings or work with an individual cleaner. While the cost might seem high, not needing to buy certain cleaning equipment and supplies anymore can help offset the expense. There's also the satisfaction of having a clean home. Cruze discussed how ditching the lawn mower and hiring a professional gave her husband more time to enjoy Sundays with the family. She said, 'He still will do stuff for sure in the yard himself because he just likes it, but to get his time and energy back, it's worth it.' Besides saving yourself from doing a tiring outdoor chore, you wouldn't have to worry about maintaining a mower or buying fuel. Plus, using a professional can pay off when a nice lawn improves your home's curb appeal and market value. Angi noted that Americans pay $123 on average for a lawn mowing visit, with yard size playing a major role. Try getting quotes from local landscaping companies and checking service marketplaces like Thumbtack and TaskRabbit, which might be cheaper. While you might already pay for child care when you're working, Cruze said it was nice to have someone watch the kids occasionally at other times. You could use that time to run errands, go out with your partner or simply relax. A few options include hiring a babysitter, using a drop-in care center or sending your kids to special day programs. Consider your budget since care costs widely vary. The 2025 Cost of Care Survey found that parents paid $21.07 an hour on average for an after-school babysitter. However, your location, the care arrangement and other factors will affect the cost. Don't just go with the cheapest care option. Carefully vet any person or care center so that you know your kids will be safe. You can also ask your loved ones for trusted child care recommendations. Cruze said, 'This is one that I started during COVID, and I was using Instacart to do all my grocery deliveries.' While she's enjoyed saving time and avoiding stressful Costco runs, Cruze explained that cost concerns have led her to use delivery services less often. After all, you're not only paying for delivery or subscription fees, but you also must account for tips and potentially higher prices. To save some money, consider ordering directly from stores like Walmart and Kroger, which mentioned they don't mark up prices online, and look for deals and coupons. You can also compare service fees and check about promotions that waive fees on orders above a certain amount. More From GOBankingRates Here's How Much Cars Made in the US Cost Compared to Mexico, Canada and China I'm a Retired Boomer: 6 Bills I Canceled This Year That Were a Waste of Money 4 Grocery Items To Buy Now Before Tariffs Raise Prices This Summer The New Retirement Problem Boomers Are Facing Sources Rachel Cruze (YouTube channel), 'When Spending Extra to Save Time Is 100% Worth It' Angi, 'How Much Does Professional House Cleaning Cost? [2025 Data]' Angi, 'What Are the Average Prices for Mowing Lawns? [2025 Data]' 'How much to charge for babysitting' This article originally appeared on 4 Times When Spending Extra To Save Time Is Worth It, According to Rachel Cruze
