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Improving infrastructure with nature in mind, including building wildlife crossings that save animal and human lives.

TheStreet aims to feature only the best products and services. If you buy something via one of our links, we may earn a commission.Why we love this dealElectronics are always going to be one of the more expensive items to purchase. The technology that makes smartphones, tablets, and laptops so convenient and easy to use comes at a price, but that doesn’t mean you have to settle on spending a fortune when it comes time to buy a new one. In this day and age, even those who aren’t tech savvy, know that nine times out of ten, you need access to some sort of device for education, employment, and other essential tasks. Ultimately, for most of us, it’s an inevitable purchase. Thankfully, just because it’s a must-have doesn’t mean you have to splurge on something expensive to get those essential tasks done. In fact, Walmart has a ton of great discounts on a variety of laptops to help you stay under budget and tackle all your tech tasks. The Akocrsiy 15.6-Inch Laptop originally retails for $500 but is now 43% off as part of a Walmart Flash deal, meaning you can get it for just $283. Of course, we understand $283 isn’t exactly a bargain bin deal, but when considering that you can save $217 and still get a quality computer, it’s a pretty phenomenal deal. Akocrsiy 15.6-Inch Laptop, $283 (was $500) at Walmart

Courtesy of Walmart

Shop at WalmartWhy do shoppers love it?Most laptops on average have a diagonal screen size between 13.3 inches and 15.6 inches, and this one gears toward the larger side at 15.6 inches exactly. The computer has an Intel Pentium Gold 6500Y processor, which means it has an average, entry-level dual-core system that helps it run efficiently. The dual-core and four threads that it contains means it can handle basic multitasking — i.e. operating more than one window or system at a time — but that it’s not ideal for heavy gaming or intense content creation. It’s a solid system that’s perfect if you just want something that runs efficiently and effectively without all the bells and whistles. If you’re someone who uses a computer for work a lot or school, it might be best to look at another model. With a four megabyte (MB) cache, the laptop has a high-speed memory pool directly built into that processor which acts as a short-term storage space and it’s what helps the system operate at the speed and pace that it does. It operates on 16 gigabytes of lower-power double data rate 3 memory (GB LPDDR3) RAM which, combined with the 512 GB solid state drive (SSD) storage, is what allows multiple platforms to run at the same time seamlessly and store documents, files, and more easily. As a Windows 11 system, you get immediate access to programs like the AI-assistant Copilot and Smart App Control, as well as help with multitasking, organizing, documenting writing, editing, and basic content creation. The laptop also comes pre-installed with but not limited to Microsoft Office apps like Word, Powerpoint, Excel, Outlook, and OneNote for lifetime use. All this is easy to access and read thanks to the 1920 x 1090 resolution screen with crisp, clear visuals.Related: Walmart’s bestselling Lenovo tablet is on sale for $146With a 5,000 milliampere-hour (MAh) battery, the device can offer between four to 10 hours of battery life with moderate use before needing a recharge. It’s typically a more efficient battery designed for budget-friendly, slimmer models. You have access to a camera with a sliding privacy switch to cover it when it’s not in use, as well as an HDMI port, two USB 3.2 ports, a Type-C Power Connecter, a micro SD card slot to expand storage, a USB 2.0 port, an audio jack, and a lock slot. What to expect from a $283 laptop: Pros and consProsEfficient systems: The laptop has a 16GB LPDDR3 RAM, 512 GB SSD for storage, and operates with an Intel Pentium Gold 6500Y processor. Pre-installed lifetime apps: The Windows 11 system comes with pre-installed Microsoft Office applications like Word, Powerpoint, Excel, Outlook, and OneNote. Superior screen: The 15.6-inch big diagonal screen offers crisp, clear visuals thanks to the 1920×1080 resolution.ConsWeak battery: The 5,000 mAh does not last long on a full charge.Shoppers appreciate that this computer is easy to set up and easy to travel with. It has a sleek design that’s lightweight and an intuitive setup that makes navigating the various pre-installed apps a breeze even if you aren’t the most tech-savvy person. Shoppers say it “runs smoothly” and although the battery life isn’t super long lasting, it does charge very fast. “It’s not a fancy name, but it works really well. It’s fast and reliable,” one shopper said. Shop more deals Mingdaln Smart Watch, $24 (was $160) at WalmartSamsung 75-Inch Class Crystal Smart TV, $448 (was $649) at WalmartHP Stream 14-Inch Win 11 Laptop, $199 (was $229) at WalmartLaptops are an area where the most wallet-friendly option isn’t always the most effective option. However, with discounts on models like the Akocrsiy 15.6-Inch Laptop, you can still get quality for a decent cost and without spending a fortune. 

TheStreet aims to feature only the best products and services. If you buy something via one of our links, we may earn a commission.Why we love this dealWe all know how lovely it is to snuggle up in bedding that not only looks good, but feels good as well. However, it’s all too common that the combo comes with a hefty price tag. Luckily, we’ve spotted some great discounts on bedding recently, whether you want a new duvet or a completely new comforter set. Our latest discovery is a terrific find, and you’re going to want to add it to your cart immediately.The U by Bedsure 3-Piece Boho Comforter Set is on sale at Walmart right now, and it’s an incredibly affordable way to refresh your bedroom. Originally $76, you can get this queen-size set for $53, which is a 34% discount. U by Bedsure 3-Piece Boho Comforter Set, $53 (was $76) at Walmart

Courtesy of Walmart

Shop at WalmartWhy do shoppers love it?This comforter set perfectly blends beauty and comfort. It comes with three pieces, including a 90-by-90-inch queen comforter and two 20-inch-by-26-inch pillow shams. But rather than an ordinary design, the set leans boho with eye-catching embroidered details that add just the right amount of texture to your bedroom. Related: Amazon is selling a 7-piece bedding set for $37 that comes in 24 colorsThe set is incredibly soft, according to shoppers, as each piece is made from brushed polyester microfiber. It’s lightweight yet warm, making it ideal for all seasons. The material is also moisture-wicking and breathable, so you won’t overheat. Use the set with cooling sheets during the summer or pair it with a throw blanket and a set of flannel sheets during the winter for extra warmth. Cleaning the set is also easy, as it’s machine-washable. Use a gentle cycle with cold water, then you can line dry or tumble dry it on low. It was originally available in five colors, but this set is practically flying off the shelves. Right now, you can get three colors in the queen size, but availability varies depending on the size and color you choose.Details to knowMaterial: Polyester.Sizes: Twin, full, queen, and king.Colors: Five, but only three are still available.According to Walmart shoppers, this set is “so luxurious” with a beautiful design and feel. One shopper says it looks light and airy, and another adds that it’s the perfect weight to use regardless of the season, whether it’s summer or winter. Others share that it’s “so soft and comfortable,” but it is also durable and holds up well after washing.Shop more dealsU by Bedsure &-Piece Bed in a Bag, $50 at WalmartRegency Heights 7-Piece Comforter Set, $50 (was $160) at WalmartRegency Heights 3-Piece Boho Comforter Set, $36 (was $150) at WalmartThe U by Bedsure 3-Piece Boho Comforter Set is on sale for $53. With all the pieces you need to give your bed a stylish and relaxed look, it’s quite the steal. But act fast! Colors are selling out quickly, so it’s only a matter of time before the rest do, too.

Lieutenant Governor Juliana Stratton is now likely to be the next Senator from Illinois, after defeating Rep. Raja Krishnamoorthi, who enjoyed major backing from crypto PAC Fairshake.

TheStreet aims to feature only the best products and services. If you buy something via one of our links, we may earn a commission.Why we love this dealVersatility is one of the best factors of travel items. Packing light, whether you’re travelling out of the country or going on a weekend hiking trip, can be the difference between a fun time and a not-so-great time. If you’re walking for hours with too much to carry, it can be difficult to enjoy the sights and experience. REI has a versatile, roomy, and compact tote pack that’s perfect for day packingThe Patagonia 24-Liter Tote Pack offers tons of space for essentials and extras, including clothing, snacks, water bottles, umbrellas, and more. Originally $99, this quality pack is now just $69 at REI for a limited time. Patagonia 24-Liter Tote Pack, $69 (was $99) at REI

Courtesy of REI

Shop at REIWhy do shoppers love it?This lightweight pack offers two ways to carry it, including as a normal backpack or as an over-the-shoulder tote bag with handles. The main compartment features a zipper and drawstring closure that keeps your items extra secure, and has a large slip pocket for your tablet, plus a zippered pocket. The outer includes a zip pocket and two mesh side pockets, perfect for water bottles or snacks, and a hidden pocket.  Related: Amazon is selling a $105 anti-theft backpack for only $30 that’s perfect for your next spring tripThe lightweight construction makes it easy to carry, and it can fold up into its own pocket for an easy-to-store option when traveling. The backpack straps fold into the bag when using it as a tote, preventing them from getting in the way. The lining includes a polyurethane coating to prevent water damage, and a ripstop top and bottom for durability. It fits 24 liters overall, and measures 16 inches by 10 inches by 8 inches, but weighs just 14.8 ounces. The material is Fair Trade Certified and contains recycled materials. The Dried Vanilla color is on sale, but they also offer black, Smolder Blue, and Aqua Stone at the normal retail price. The Patagonia tote pack: Pros and cons of a $69 toteProsStorage: This pack has four main compartments, plus hidden pockets and zipper pockets. Security: The double closure on the main compartment offers extra security while walking around.Durability: This pack has a 70-denier ripstop upper and bottom for extra durability. Cons Packing bag: The totepack may be difficult to stuff into its own storage pocket.Handles: The tote bag handles aren’t padded.One buyer said, “Love this tote/pack. It weighs so little, yet carries so much. Comfortable to wear even when full. Fits two larger water bottles (one on each side). Zips shut. I can use it as a backpack or a tote bag, which can fit over the shoulder or be carried by hand. This one bag does it all.””It has a well-thought-out design and appears to be very well made,” another buyer said. “It’s a backpack, tote, and collapsible, which is a win-win.”Shop more dealsOsprey Daylight Pack, $75 (was $100) at REIPatagonia Atom 20-Liter Tote Pack, $62 (was $89) at REIPatagonia Mini Hip Pack, $24 (was $35) at REIThe Patagonia 24-Liter Tote Pack offers versatility, comfort, and an easy way to travel with your necessities and more. It fits water, snacks, clothing, overnight items, and more, and has a double closure on the main compartment for extra security. The ripstop bottom and top offer extra durability. Shoppers can save 30% on this Patagonia pack, offering a quality name-brand pack for a fraction of the price.

TheStreet aims to feature only the best products and services. If you buy something via one of our links, we may earn a commission.Why we love this dealSpring weather is finally here, making me fantasize about gatherings in my backyard and lazy afternoons reading in my favorite lounge chair. But as a person who burns to a crisp in the sun without an adequate amount of sunscreen, I always have to be careful. My warm-weather adventures always include sun hats and umbrellas. That’s why I’m eyeing Amazon’s Prime-only deal on its bestselling Blissun 9-Foot Patio Umbrella, which is 27% off.This generously-sized umbrella has a handy crank so you can open and close it with ease. It also features a tilt function, which is necessary for those late afternoons when the sun starts to sink in the sky and threatens to blind you. It just might be the perfect outdoor accessory for my patio set.Blissun 9-Foot Patio Umbrella, $44 (was $60) at Amazon

Courtesy of Amazon

Shop at AmazonWhy do shoppers love it?I’m fortunate to have some decent shade in my backyard already, thanks to the tall trees on my property. But they don’t cover everything, and I noticed I was getting some unwelcome sun exposure last year when I was sitting outside reading in the afternoon. This umbrella would easily solve that problem, which is why I’m considering buying one. This 9-foot umbrella has a powder-coated 9-foot iron pole with a 1.5-inch diameter and is made to fit most patio table umbrella holes. It supports the canopy with eight thick iron ribs built to last. There are two features that make it stand out from the average patio umbrella: the crank and the tilt function. The crank is used to open and close the umbrella with ease, so you’ll never have to manually open or close it by reaching above your head. The tilt function works at the touch of a button, allowing you to position the umbrella in the direction of the sun as it moves through the sky throughout the day.The shade is made of polyester, a durable fabric known for its resilience, and features an air vent at the top. The manufacturer recommends the 9-foot as an ideal size for a table between 42 and 54 inches that seats four. You can choose from seven striking colors, including tan, yellow, red, orange, blue, Seaglass, and Rust. The $44 deal is for the tan color, but several others are also on sale at varying prices.One thing worth noting is that this umbrella does not come with a base, so if you’d like to ensure it stays in place even on windy days, you may want to pick one up to go with it.Pros and cons of the $44 9-Foot Patio Umbrella Pros:A great price: $44 is an affordable price, especially for the features you get.The tilt feature: Allows you to block out the sun in any direction.27,000 five-star reviews: People really like the product and say it’s high-quality. Cons:Some buyers say theirs broke: A few buyers mention that the ribs broke.Limited colors on sale: Only the tan is available for $44. Related: Macy’s is selling a 3-seat porch swing with a sunshade and cupholders for 79% offAs we mentioned earlier, this umbrella has an enormous amount of five-star ratings. Shoppers love the crank and the tilt function, and several mention they’ve owned it for years, and it’s still going strong. “Compared to other market umbrellas, this one feels very reasonably priced for the size, build quality, and features,” one shopper wrote. “I’m very happy with this outdoor umbrella,” another shopper said. “The umbrella is not too heavy to manage, but sturdy enough to not blow away. I highly recommend it, especially for the price!”Shop more deals Patiokingdom 9-Foot Patio Umbrella, $56 (was $70) at AmazonMeway 9-Foot Patio Umbrella, $50 (was $60) at AmazonUS Weight 40-Pound Umbrella Base, $42 (was $44) at AmazonThe Blissun 9-Foot Patio Umbrella is a great deal for just $44. But that price is only for Amazon Prime members, so if you want to sign up to get the deal, you can do that here.

The New York Mets’ star infielder had a desire to play in the U.S., even while with the Toronto Blue Jays, according to Dante Bichette.

The operator of Disney’s upcoming resort in Abu Dhabi has reaffirmed its commitment to the blockbuster project in a message to the new head of the studio’s theme park division.

For three years, rising mortgage rates and elevated home prices locked millions of would-be buyers out of the market. Monthly payments climbed, budgets shrank, and starter homes slipped out of reach.Now, a shift is underway, the numbers behind it are bigger than most people realize. A new analysis from Zillow finds that a buyer’s purchasing power has jumped by more than $30,000 compared to a year ago. The calculation is based on real changes in mortgage rates and household incomes. The question is whether that extra room in your budget opens real doors. Here’s what you need to know before the spring homebuying season kicks into gear.Zillow reports a $30,302 jump in what buyers can affordA median-income U.S. household can now comfortably afford a $331,483 home with a 20% down payment, according to Zillow’s February 2026 analysis. That’s $30,302 more than a year ago and the highest level of purchasing power since March 2022. Three forces are driving the shift. Mortgage rates dropped from an average of 6.96% in January 2025 to 6.1% by January 2026, based on Zillow’s data. Household incomes edged higher. Home-price growth flattened.Together, those factors cut the typical monthly principal-and-interest payment by 8.4% year over year. The recent low point for affordability was October 2023, when rates hit 7.62%, and a median household could only afford a $272,224 home.How lower rates created room in your monthly budgetThe rate environment has moved meaningfully over the past year. On February 26 2026, Freddie Mac reported the 30-year fixed-rate mortgage averaged 5.98% and that was the first time in three and a half years it dropped below 6%.As of March 12, the 30-year rate averaged 6.11%, per Freddie Mac’s Primary Mortgage Market Survey. A year ago, the same rate sat at 6.65%. That half-point difference matters.What rate relief looks like in dollarsOn a $330,000 home with 20% down, moving from 6.65% to 6.11% saves you roughly $100 per month in principal and interest. Over a 30-year loan, that adds up to more than $36,000.Freddie Mac chief economist Sam Khater noted the market is responding. “Existing-home sales increased 1.7% in February,” Khater said. “Purchase applications also increased this week, a welcome sign as buyers enter the spring homebuying season.”The cities where buyers gained the most groundThe biggest dollar gains showed up in the most expensive housing markets. Even small rate drops translate into large budget differences in high-cost metros.Top metro areas by year-over-year purchasing power gain:San Jose, California: nearly $74,000San Francisco: $56,115Washington, D.C.: $48,881San Diego: $46,506Boston: $46,390Median household incomes in San Jose and San Francisco exceed $140,000, far above the national figure. The percentage gain in your budget matters more than the raw dollar amount when comparing markets.82,300 more homes now fit within your price rangePurchasing power is only useful if there are homes available to buy. Zillow found that roughly 82,300 additional homes have come within budget for median-income households compared to a year ago.More Real Estate:Why selling a home to your child for a dollar can backfireCommercial Real Estate Outlook 2026: Analysts See Signs of RecoveryRedfin says mortgage rates, profits are hitting real estate nowAbout 447,000 affordable listings were on the market in January 2026. That represents 40.3% of total listings, up from 34.8% a year earlier. Total housing inventory reached 1.1 million homes, a 6% annual increase.Markets with the biggest jump in affordable inventory:Houston: nearly 4,000 more homes within reach for median earnersPhoenix: more than 3,400 additional affordable homesDallas, Miami, and Atlanta also added thousands of qualifying properties.Markets where home values declined over the past year delivered a double benefit. You get both cheaper financing and lower prices in those areas, stacking the affordability gains.First-time buyers still face steep barriers despite the gainsThe affordability improvement is real but it hasn’t leveled the playing field for everyone. The National Association of Realtors’ 2025 report found that first-time buyers made up just 21% of all purchases. That’s the lowest share since tracking began in 1981.The typical first-time buyer is now 40 years old, another record high. Before the Great Recession, first-timers consistently represented about 40% of the market.Why the entry barrier remains high:All-cash purchases hit a record 26% of sales, favoring equity-rich repeat buyers over first-timers who need financing.A median-income household still devotes 32.3% of income to a typical mortgage payment, per Zillow.Zillow’s $331,483 figure assumes a 20% down payment, but the median first-time buyer only puts down 10%, according to NAR.NAR deputy chief economist Jessica Lautz put it clearly: the low first-time buyer share reflects a market starved for affordable inventory. A $30,000 gain in purchasing power helps. It does not solve the structural shortage.Zillow expects rates to keep falling through 2026Zillow forecasts that mortgage rates will continue drifting lower through 2026. The company projects existing-home sales rising 4% this year compared to 2025. Further rate declines would unlock additional purchasing power for home shoppers.But rates are not guaranteed to fall in a straight line. Geopolitical tensions, including the ongoing conflict in Iran, have pushed 10-year Treasury yields higher in recent weeks. That directly affects mortgage pricing. The 30-year rate ticked up from 6.00% on March 5 to 6.11% on March 12, per Freddie Mac.Related: Zillow predicts mortgage rate, housing market changeJ.P. Morgan’s 2026 housing outlook projects rates staying above 6% even with potential Fed cuts. The direction is favorable, but a fast return to the sub-5% environment of 2021 is not on the table.How to use this window before competition heats upImproved purchasing power creates opportunity. But only if you move strategically. Here’s how to position yourself heading into spring 2026.Steps to take now:Get preapproved, not just prequalified: Preapproval verifies your financials and shows sellers you’re serious. It also locks your rate for a set window.Use Zillow’s BuyAbility tool or a similar calculator: Plug in your actual income, credit profile, and current rates. Generic estimates often overstate what you can handle.Compare at least three lenders: Freddie Mac data shows that getting one extra quote saves an average of $600 over the life of the loan. Three quotes can save $1,200.Watch your debt-to-income ratio: Lenders typically cap this at 43%. Even if you qualify, stretching beyond 35% of gross income on housing leaves little room for emergencies.Don’t wait for a “perfect” rate. If you can afford the payment today, you can refinance later when rates drop further. But you can’t recover time spent sitting on the sidelines while prices and competition increase.The fine print behind the $30,000 headlineZillow’s headline number is powerful. But a few assumptions shape the math. You should understand them before making any decision.Key caveats:The analysis assumes a 20% down payment. Most first-time buyers don’t have that. With 10% down, your payment is higher, and you’ll owe private mortgage insurance.The calculation excludes property taxes and homeowners’ insurance. Both have risen sharply in many states. In some markets, insurance alone jumped 20–40% since 2022.A 32.3% income-to-mortgage ratio falls within lender limits. But financial planners generally recommend keeping total housing costs below 28% of gross income.Rates can reverse quickly. Inflation surprises, geopolitical escalation, or a hawkish Fed could push rates back above 6.5%.The $30,000 gain is real. Just make sure you’re calculating your personal budget before making a move. Your numbers may look different from the national median.Related: Iran war causes mortgage rate surge​

Indiana Pacers center Jay Huff has yet to miss a game for the Pacers. Can he reach 82 games played for the first time in his career?