SC Adventure

Well, its a Wednesday afternoon in Aiken, SC. I'm here with work, but I've found myself with some free time. I've been to Aiken several times before, but I'm always so shocked at how hot it is. I grew up three hours from here, and I don't remember September being so warm! But I digress, Aiken is a nice change from Texas. The past few months have seen me spend a lot of time in the Lone Star State. 

I'm sitting in a little cafe on the main street. It looks like I've walked into Stars Hollow. I almost expect to see Rory Gilmore to walk past the window. As I look out across the square, I can understand why people could be drawn to small town life. It's charming and relaxed. One could easily spend hours just strolling down the tree lined streets. I'm only spending a few days here. It's long enough for me to enjoy a change of scenery, but not get tired of the environment. It was nice to get a little break from my normal travel schedule. 

Russian Homeowners and their Feline Friends

The first thing I think of when I think of mortgages is paperwork and a new home! But, for homeowners in Russia, many will now think of cats. Russia’s largest bank has decided to fall back on a traditional superstition to bolster mortgage sales. According to the superstition, it is good luck to have a cat cross your threshold of a new home, before the family does. So, Russia’s largest lender, Sberbank, is offering a free cat with every mortgage they sell. Now, the feline comrades are only temporary guest, but they are with each customer long enough to grant luck to the entire home.  Buyers can pick out the cat that they like on the bank’s website, and have it delivered right to their door, ready to give their blessing. On the website, each cat has a profile with their name as well as the number of blessings they have done.

House hunting and acquiring a mortgage can be stressful and overwhelming. Throwing in a furry friend is definitely a wonderful way to make the process more enjoyable, as well as garner interest. What a fun way to promote a company! Happy house hunting, meow!

Check out the video below to see how people in Russia are responding! 

 Sources: BBC News, Bank Webpage, Prime Time RU