Buying a Home

Hey all, We’re having a relaxed card games evening at Carlton Gardens ✨ There won’t be a planned activity this week - just a chance to hang out, play some games, and catch up. I’ll be bringing a few different card games so we’ll have some fun options to try. Come as you are, whether you’ve been around for a while or just joined the Social Threads community - you’ll be warmly welcomed 😊 📍 Carlton Gardens (pin -[https://maps.app.goo.gl/U3oaqAs5gAoz5EKV6](https://maps.app.goo.gl/U3oaqAs5gAoz5EKV6)) 📅 Friday 20 Feb ⏰ 6 - 8 pm If you can, bring a snack you'd like to share. See you there :))

Get ready to embark on a journey to undisclosed locations. We will be hiring a 24-seater bus with a driver for this adventure. This is our 5th surprise trip. We're setting off to explore locations we have not been as part of the group over the last 9 years. But here's the twist: the full itinerary stays under wraps until you're seated on the bus. If you are a youtuber or content creator, please message me before signing up. Please follow these two steps to confirm your spot: Step 1: Please RSVP to this event on meetup. Step 2: Please get your ticket via Trybooking ($99 - Lucky Bird, $109 - Early Bird, $119 - Regular) - [https://www.trybooking.com/DJMUM](https://www.trybooking.com/DJMUM) Payments are managed through Trybooking and not Meetup. You will see an **"Unpaid"** status on your RSVP. The only thing you need is the Trybooking ticket which you will receive by email. I will manually update the meetup payment status closer to the event date if the names on Trybooking and Meetup are the same. Trybooking payments are non-refundable. There is no option to transfer the ticket to a new date. Trybooking payments will be refunded only if the event is cancelled or moved to a new date. **Meeting Point:** Let's meet in Federation Square Bus & Coach Pickup Drop-off Zone (Corner of Russell and Flinders Street) at 9 AM. Please don't be late. We should be back to city around 9 pm. **[Google Map Link](https://www.google.com/maps/place/Federation+Square+Bus+%26+Coach+Pickup+Drop-off+Zone/@-37.8174106,144.9702863,15z/data=!4m2!3m1!1s0x0:0x9629c0ef7d056ab5?sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwiExo-b6taDAxVWslYBHbHtA2sQ_BJ6BAhYEAA)** Walking distance is flexible. Please follow us on Social Media for photos, videos & updates: [YouTube](https://www.youtube.com/@explore-melbourne) \| [Facebook Page](https://www.facebook.com/exploremelb) \| [Facebook Group](https://www.facebook.com/groups/exploremelb) \| [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/xpmelb/) \| [TikTok](https://www.tiktok.com/@exploremelbourne) \| [ExploreMelbourne.AU](https://exploremelbourne.au/) This is a rain-or-shine event. Please carry takeaway lunch, water, and snacks. We will make a stop on the way if you want to pick takeaway lunch. Cost: $99 - Lucky Bird $109 - Early Bird $119 - Regular Please follow us on Social Media for photos, videos & updates: [YouTube](https://www.youtube.com/@explore-melbourne) \| [Facebook Page](https://www.facebook.com/exploremelb) \| [Facebook Group](https://www.facebook.com/groups/exploremelb) \| [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/xpmelb/) \| [TikTok](https://www.tiktok.com/@exploremelbourne) \| [ExploreMelbourne.AU](https://exploremelbourne.au/) Explore Melbourne is the largest meetup group in Australia with more than 44,000 members. We know these group rules won’t suit everybody, and that’s okay—there are many other groups where you might feel more at home. To keep things safe, fun, and positive, we have 8 simple rules for people attending our events. Over the past 9 years, we’ve removed 342 people (around 0.8%) for breaking them—so please read carefully! ❌ Not a dating group – We’re here to make friends and share experiences, not find soulmates. 📵 No phone numbers – You’re welcome to swap social media if you both agree, but please don’t share or ask for phone numbers. Please don’t add people to WhatsApp or other groups. 🔞 Our events are only open to people aged 18 and older. 📢 No advertising – Please don’t promote other events, groups, or businesses here. 😅 Don’t be clingy – Give people space to mingle and chat with others too. 🚗 No carpooling – For safety reasons and insurance coverage, we don’t allow carpooling or ride-sharing through the group. 💰 No sales pitches – That means no selling, MLMs, pyramid schemes, or “life-changing mentorships.” Keep it scam-free. By joining an event, you agree to follow these rules. Breaking them means removal from all our groups—no exceptions. Thank you! **Liability Waiver:** The organizer of this group cannot accept any liability for any loss, damage, injury, or accident to participants or their property at this event. By participating in this event, you're taking responsibility for your safety and well-being. By joining this event, you agree to the liability waiver mentioned here: [https://exploremelbourne.au/explore-melbourne-liability-waiver/](https://exploremelbourne.au/explore-melbourne-liability-waiver/)

Hi Radiant Ladies, Join us for a refreshing Saturday walk at Ruffey Lake Park. 👭 Walk at your own pace 🐕 Dogs welcome ☕ Coffee after 🌦️ We walk every Saturday (unless it’s pouring) New ladies welcome. See you! 
Leanne & Lyn 💕

Want to try something different? Get some exercise with good company, maybe challenge yourself in a team environment? Come paddle with us! Join us - **Southern Storm Paddle Club** - for a Saturday morning session to give Dragon Boating a go! **Introduction session** We host an introduction session regularly on Saturday mornings — 8.30 to 10.30.am at 912 Collins St, Docklands VIC 3008. For the first part of the session, we will provide you a safety briefing and some demonstrations on basic paddling technique. Then you will join our club for their regular \*on water\* training session. There will be a small coffee catch up after the session at the nearby café. Once you complete the introduction session, you can join us on regular weekday trainings and ***paddle for free for 30 days*** (with a valid Dragon pass - free to register). **To join us**, simply RSVP to the event on Meetup and email/message your contact details (email or phone number) to our host if this is your first time attending the session. We will provide a PFD (life jacket) and paddle. We recommend you bring a drink bottle, sun protection and clothes for change as you may get wet in the boat. There are shower facilities and lockers at the boat hub. More specifics will be provided to you the day before the event! **Can't make it** on Saturday session? We also train on Tuesday and Thursday evening at 6pm. Contact us and see what we can arrange. **Southern Storm Paddle Club** trains all year around in Docklands, weather permitting. (Rain is not an issue!) If you have any questions, please get in touch with us on Facebook, meetup or email on [southernstormpaddleclub@gmail.com](mailto:southernstormpaddleclub@gmail.com) Follow the team on Social Media @ [http://www.southernstorm.com.au](http://www.southernstorm.com.au) [https://www.instagram.com/southernstormpc/ ](https://www.instagram.com/southernstormpc/)[https://www.facebook.com/southernstormpaddleclub/](https://www.facebook.com/southernstormpaddleclub/)

Instagram: @findyourtribemelb Take a pause from the hustle and join us for **The Monthly Reset** \- a space for **driven and ambitious people** to reflect on the past month, set fresh goals, and connect with other growth-minded individuals. This months theme is all about **alignment.** There’s something powerful about sharing your reflections and intentions with other growth-minded individuals. When you're surrounded by people who value progress, purpose, and self-awareness, it creates a natural sounding board for ideas, clarity, and encouragement. These kinds of conversations can help you see things differently, feel more supported, and stay aligned with the goals that truly matter to you. 🌿**MEETING POINT** Let's meet outside Botanic Gardens Visitor Centre at 9.00am. Anyone who would like to grab a coffee can do so, then at 9.15am, we'll take a walk around the Tan. 🤝**CONNECTION ACTIVITY** During the walk, you’ll be invited to participate in structured conversations with different partners as we rotate every 15ish minutes. We’ll provide reflection prompts to guide your discussions. This month we will take the time to set and share intentions for 2026 together. This is a space to connect authentically, think intentionally, and feel supported by others who care about growth and alignment - both professionally and personally. 👋**NEW HERE?** Welcome! Find Your Tribe Melbourne is a community mostly around 25-40 who are passionate about connection, purpose, and personal development. We’re open-minded, respectful, and always excited to welcome new faces. Whether you come solo or with a friend, we’ll make sure you feel included and supported. Pushing outside your comfort zone can be tough—but it's where growth and friendship begin. 🌱 If you have any questions or just want to say hi before the event, feel free to message me! ⚠️**LIABILITY DISCLAIMER** By attending this event, you acknowledge that you are participating voluntarily and are responsible for your own health, safety, and well-being during the walk and any related activities. *Find Your Tribe Melbourne* and its hosts are not liable for any injury, loss, or damage that may occur. Please take care, be mindful of your surroundings, and participate within your own comfort level. **PHOTO AND VIDEO DISCLAIMER** Please note that photos and videos will be taken throughout the event and may be used on our social media channels or other platforms. If you prefer not to be photographed or filmed, kindly inform one of the hosts at the beginning of the event. Instagram: @findyourtribemelb

**Only ticket holders purchased prior to the event time will be accepted. Get your ticket now so that you don't miss out on the day.** **Singles Dating Walk – The Tan track walking circuit around the Botanical Gardens.** Tickets here! [https://www.eventbrite.com/e/1981511576466?aff=oddtdtcreator](https://www.eventbrite.com/e/1981511576466?aff=oddtdtcreator) If you are lost, please message Kris at 0422467134 We will meet at 11:00 am and depart at 11:15am, so please try to arrive at 10:45 am to make sure that you don't miss us. This is a ticketed event. Tickets are purchased through Eventbrite. It is necessary for this to be a paid event as it assures us of the numbers that are attending and also helps you commit to attending as well. If you get in early $9 Early bird tickets are available. **Don't miss out!** Tickets will be monitored and released according to demand and guided to maintain gender balance. Step into nature and open your heart to new possibilities. Our *Singles Dating Walk* offers a refreshing way to meet like-minded people while strolling along the beautiful Tan track walking circuit. Throughout the walk, you’ll be gently guided to connect with someone new every so often, creating opportunities to meet a variety of potential matches in a warm and relaxed atmosphere. To make conversations flow with ease, we’ll provide thoughtful dating questions designed to inspire connection and meaningful dialogue. This event is ideal for singles who are ready to move beyond apps and experience the magic of face-to-face chemistry in a natural, uplifting setting. By the end of the walk, you’ll have shared genuine moments, discovered new connections, and perhaps even taken the first steps toward something special.

Are you looking for something different, if so, I would like to invite you to come on a healing journey to discover peace and harmony within yourself and life. If this is of interest to you, the first class is free, as it's an introduction to the explorations of mindfulness/meditation with a spiritual flavour. If you choose to return (no obligation), then a small amount is asked of $5 per class. What a wonderful opportunity to explore your physical, emotional, mental and soul bodies and how they are all inter-related and all can be greatly affected with the stresses and challenges of everyday life. Through engaging with an energetic hygiene process that I facilitate, you will be able to cleanse your energy field on a daily basis. With the event/class there is a variety being presented each week, always a guided meditation, followed by either reflection on self-care through working with a variety of gentle approach resources (which will be given to you to take, if you choose), as well as, listening to different short mindfulness cds. All you need to bring is yourself and a crystal, if you like.

We will meet at the starting point. Take a round trip to St. Kilda Botanical Garden, hang for a coffee/ bite in between, then loop back to the start. If you don’t feel like coffee/bite, you are welcome to just join us for a walk. Take it slow and start from there. Come join us for a chilaxing catchup! **\-\-\- Running Late \-\-\-** If you are running late, please message at least 30mins in advance. We will wait up to 15mins before heading off. Once we start, we won't be able to keep track with messages. **\-\-\- RSVP/ Change of Plan \-\-\-** If you change your plan or decide not to attend. Please update your RSVP, so others can attend. **\-\-\- Intro \-\-\-** Kudos to Friends….Expand Your Social Circle Meetup group is a community of individuals who prefer to take it slow to get to know people over time in Melbourne. Join us on a fun journey as we explore cafes, restaurants and bars, including drinks, meals, outings, chilling, culture exchanging, etc. Above all, we’d like to celebrate the importance of friendships. So if you are looking to expand your social circle and explore new adventures and venues in Melbourne, come join us! **\-\-\- WhatsApp Group \-\-\-** We use WhatsApp for more fluid communication, including ideas, interest groups, questions etc. Please let the organizer know if you would like to be added to the WhatsApp Group at the event. We will send an invite to attendees to the group. (give us some time) **\-\-\- Rules \-\-\-** Admin will only add members to the group with a clear profile picture. (No hidden behind sunglasses, masks, drawings) **You might be removed from the group in the case of…** * no show * without a clear profile picture * anti-social behaviour (i.e. acts rude / disrespectful regularly) * taking advantage of individuals for personal gain(s) **\-\-\- Privacy \-\-\-** Do not disclose your contact number in this post comment. We will delete your comment/info as soon as we see it to protect your privacy.

Join Us for Physio-Led Outdoor Mat Pilates! To our Abbotsford & Kew community 💚 Bring your mat, bring a friend, and join us this Sunday. Whether you donate or simply attend, you’re helping create something meaningful. A 45-minute Physio-Led Pilates for a Cause 🧘‍♀️ session on Sunday, Feb 22 at Yarra Bend Park, Kew. It’s a gentle outdoor Pilates class guided by Gemma, a physiotherapist and founder of Micromovements. The session supports mental health awareness, with all proceeds going to SANE Australia 💚 Let’s move together 🌿No pressure at all — just sharing in case it sounds like something you’d enjoy 😊 (Please bring your own mat!)

Hello book lovers, Our book for February is "James" by Percival Everett When Jim overhears that he is about to be sold to a man in New Orleans, separated from his wife and daughter forever, he runs away until he can formulate a plan. Meanwhile, Huck has faked his own death to escape his violent father. As all readers of American literature know, thus begins the dangerous and transcendent journey by raft down the Mississippi River toward the elusive and unreliable promise of the Free States and beyond. Brimming with nuanced humor and lacerating observations that have made Everett a literary icon, this brilliant and tender novel radically illuminates Jim's agency, intelligence, and compassion as never before. *James* is destined to be a major publishing event and a cornerstone of twenty-first-century American literature. https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/173754979-james

**Understanding the Columbus Housing Market: Let’s Talk Downsizing for Seniors** Understanding the Market to Make Your Best Move Yet Thinking about downsizing or helping a parent prepare for a move? Join us for a friendly, educational seminar designed specifically for seniors in Central Ohio. We’ll break down what’s happening in today’s Columbus housing market, explore timing and planning for downsizing, and discuss easy ways to prepare a longtime home for sale—without overwhelm. You’ll also learn about low‑maintenance housing options, financial considerations, and simple steps to make your next move smooth and stress‑free. This is a relaxed, no‑pressure event where you can ask questions and get practical advice tailored to seniors and their families. Hosted by: Katie McCartney, Broker & Senior Real Estate Specialist® (SRES)

#### Turning Rentals Into Income: How Investors Pay Off Properties Faster #### **Featuring Guest Speaker: John Blackburn** **👉 Get your FREE TICKET [HERE](https://www.eventbrite.com/e/turning-rentals-into-income-how-investors-pay-off-properties-faster-tickets-1980492192461?aff=cicmeetupapp)** #### A lot of people get into real estate because they want freedom. Then they buy a rental…and realize most of the rent goes straight to the bank. They technically own property, but the mortgage controls the income. And waiting 30 years for properties to be paid off doesn’t feel realistic. This meetup is about understanding a different way to think about rental properties… one that focuses on paying them off sooner so the income is actually usable. **Featured Guest Speaker: John Blackburn** We’re excited to welcome John Blackburn as our guest speaker for this event. John has been actively investing in real estate since 2006 and has: * Been involved in **5,000+ real estate transactions** * Helped investors **acquire over $150 million in rental property** * **Raised more than $100 million** in private capital John didn’t start with family money or shortcuts. He built his portfolio by focusing on clear systems, real numbers, and long-term strategy. For this meetup, John will walk through how investors shift their focus from simply owning rentals to building properties that eventually pay them…without a mortgage attached. **What You’ll Learn** John will break down, in simple terms: * Why most rental properties don’t produce much usable income early on * Why buying more rentals isn’t always the answer * How investors structure their properties to pay off mortgages in a fraction of the time * How properties can work together to eliminate debt faster * What changes once rentals become free and clear This approach is often referred to as an accelerated paydown strategy — using rental income intentionally to reduce debt sooner, rather than waiting decades for mortgages to run their course. John will also share a simple calculator you can use to see how this works with real numbers and realistic scenarios. **The Core Idea** When a rental has a mortgage, the rent has one job: **pay the bank.** When a rental is paid off, the rent has a different job: **pay you.** Most people only see one timeline…30 years. This session shows how investors shorten that timeline and gradually increase their income as properties become free and clear. **Who This Event Is For** This event is for people who want more than just “owning rentals” on paper. * Rental owners who are tired of most of the rent going to the bank and want a clearer path to real, usable income * New investors who want to understand how rental properties actually build wealth over time before jumping in * People with capital who want to invest in real estate with intention and a long-term plan * Anyone serious about freedom and curious how rental properties transition from debt-heavy assets into income-producing ones **Event Details** **Location:** Ohio Brewing Company - 421 E 2nd Ave, Columbus, OH 43201 **Date & Time:** January 25th, 6–8 PM (Doors open at 5:30) **Cost:** Free (Seats are limited - RSVP required) **👉 Get your FREE TICKET [HERE](https://www.eventbrite.com/e/turning-rentals-into-income-how-investors-pay-off-properties-faster-tickets-1980492192461?aff=cicmeetupapp)** If you’ve ever wondered how rental properties actually turn into freedom —this is the room to be in.

This is not just a money class. This is a restoration space. The I AM Worthy of Ownership™ Path is a 12-step, sister-centered journey for women who are ready to build financial stability without shame, fear, or pressure—and to do it in a way that honors both wisdom and the spirit. Many women don’t struggle with money because they lack discipline or intelligence. They struggle because of unhealed experiences, survival patterns, and the quiet belief that they are “behind” or “disqualified.” This series gently challenges those beliefs while offering practical tools for peace, clarity, and long-term planning. Together, we will talk honestly about: Releasing shame and money anxiety Building stability as a form of self-respect and spiritual discipline Understanding money as a tool, not a source of worth Managing debt with clarity instead of condemnation Preparing for life’s unexpected moments without fear Laying a calm foundation for future ownership and legacy Each session blends practical financial education with reflection, conversation, and encouragement. There is no pressure to share personal numbers or experiences. You are welcome to speak, journal quietly, or simply listen. This is not about hustle. This is not about perfection. This is about alignment, wisdom, and peace. Who this series is for: Women who are starting over or rebuilding Women who want stability without stress Women preparing for future ownership or housing decisions Women who want their financial lives to reflect wholeness, not fear No prior financial knowledge is required. Come as you are. Bring a notebook. Leave a little lighter than you arrived. Light refreshments will be served along with 30 minutes of networking.

Communication is everything in life You are only as successful as your ability to communicate. \- What if you could confidently talk to anyone? \- What if you had the ability to calmly control every conversation? \- What if you could close that sale\, ask for that date\, make new friends\, repair problematic relationships\, get that raise\, or effortlessly express any idea with confidence? You can! The secret to success relies on your ability or inability to effectively communicate. Attend a free seminar and gain a better ability to communicate. Hosted by the Church of Scientology of Central Ohio 1266 Dublin Road, Columbus, OH 43215 For more information, contact Rhiannon, the Event Host at 614-221-5024

If you are interested in selecting investment choices for your 401(k) or other workplace savings plan, minimizing your income tax liability, or identifying the most effective investments for your brokerage account, we are the group for you. We are a local chapter of Bogleheads**®**, whose investment strategy can be found here: https://www.bogleheads.org/wiki/Bogleheads%C2%AE_investment_philosophy Or you can peruse the Boglehead forum here: https://www.bogleheads.org/index.php I look forward to seeing you there. Mark Vonder Haar

How do you feel happier with people? How do you get into the spirit of group activities? How do you get rid of the anxiety of communicating in front of people? In this meeting, you will learn the secrets of how to connect with people, open yourself up to people, and have a grand time being yourself. This meeting will be led by an expert who has been working with people just like you to feel happier and improve communication skills for over 10 years. Be sure to click on the red "Attend" button below to come to the event. We look forward to seeing you there. This group is created by the Dianetics & Scientology life improvement center.