Monopoly and Money Woes: A Guide to Mortgaging Your Way to (Hopefully) Victory
Ah, Monopoly. The game of ruthless capitalism, questionable deal-making, and the ever-present threat of landing on Boardwalk with three hotels staring you down. But fear not, fellow player down on your luck! This handy guide will equip you with the knowledge (and maybe a dash of cunning) to navigate the murky waters of mortgaging your properties.
 |
| How To Mortgage Monopoly |
When Mortgages Become Your Best Friend (or Least Terrible Enemy)
Let's face it, nobody wants to mortgage their beloved properties. It's like putting your childhood teddy bear up for pawn – a last resort. But here's the thing: mortgages can be your saving grace when you're staring bankruptcy in the face (and that monocle you bought on impulse isn't exactly helping your cash flow).
Tip: The middle often holds the main point.
Here are some signs it's mortgage time:
QuickTip: Scan for summary-style sentences.
- Rent Day is More Like "Dread Day": Landing on Park Place after blowing all your dough on hotels? Yeah, that stings. If rent payments are leaving you shivering like a chihuahua in a snowstorm, a mortgage might be the warm blanket you need (metaphorically speaking, of course).
- The Dreaded Cash Advance: Be honest, how many times have you resorted to that pesky "get out of jail free" card to avoid a hefty loan from the bank? If you're constantly one roll away from financial ruin, some strategic mortgaging can help create a safety net (without the questionable ethics of, well, you know, using that card every other turn).
- The Art of the Deal: This one requires a sprinkle of Monopoly magic. If you see an opportunity to snag a coveted property from a cash-strapped opponent at a bargain price, mortgaging another property can free up the funds you need. Just remember, with great deals comes great responsibility (and the 10% interest on unmortgaging later).
The Fine Art of the Flip (or Not Flipping Out)
So you've decided to mortgage. Now what? Here's a crash course on the nitty-gritty:
Tip: Read slowly to catch the finer details.
 |
- Property Prep: You can only mortgage properties that are unimproved (no houses or hotels). So, if you've gone all-in on Park Place and Boardwalk, prepare to dismantle your mini-monopoly and sell those houses back to the bank (at half price, boo hoo).
- Flipping the Script (Literally): Turn your property deed card face down. This signals to everyone (and the ever-watchful banker) that you've mortgaged the property. In exchange, you'll receive a loan from the bank, which is the mortgage value printed on the back of the card (usually less than the purchase price).
- The Great Un-Mortgaging: When you're feeling financially flush again, you can un-mortgage your property. But here's the catch: you'll need to pay back the original mortgage value plus 10% interest. Ouch. That's why it's important to only mortgage properties you're confident you can redeem later.
Pro Tip: If you see another player land on a property you own (mortgaged or not), brag a little! Psychological warfare is a key Monopoly tactic.
Tip: Reading in chunks improves focus.
The Moral of the Mortgage?
Mortgaging can be a strategic tool in your Monopoly arsenal. Used wisely, it can help you stay afloat during rough financial patches and snag those dream properties. But remember, mortgage responsibly. Don't go overboard or you might find yourself permanently attached to "Go" collecting a measly $200.
Now go forth, and may the odds (and the dice rolls) be ever in your favor! Just try not to lose any friendships along the way (unless your friend keeps stealing your railroads – then all bets are off).
 |
