Insider Today: Real-estate status symbols

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On the agenda:

• Don't make these mistakes when visiting a high-end golf course.
• Everyone wants to live in a Nancy Meyers home, but it won't happen overnight.
• Real estate's next trend is Lamborghini and Dolce & Gabbana-branded homes.
• Unlimited PTO sounds like a dream. Is it?

But first: Parents, beware of August.

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This week's dispatch

Parents, it's not you. It's August.

Have you noticed that your family is on edge lately? Between the thunderstorms, the heat, the last of the summer vacations, and the long list of things to buy to go back to school, it's been a bit tense around the house.

A child psychologist told Business Insider, it's not you — or your family. It's August.

"New teachers, new classmates, new apartments, new separations, gathering school supplies and loading the car trunks. It's a time of great anticipation and worry," writes Jennifer Underwood.

This time of year brings different feelings for different families. While some parents are relieved they can opt out of back-to-school preparations since they homeschool their children, others are debating whether to post back-to-school photos on social media.

Regardless of your situation, August is still likely a tense time. Experts told BI there are four key ways to alleviate back-to-school stress on your children and family:

1. Validate your children's feelings.
2. Create a new school-friendly schedule.
3. Connect with your child's school or educational community.
4. Encourage your child to think about their long-term goals.

With these four tips, this time of year may still be stressful, but at least you and your family will be prepared.

Rookie mistake

When first-timers set foot on a fancy golf course, there are a few mistakes they're sure to make. At least that's according to a golfer who's written about the sport for the past 30 years.

After visiting more than 200 upscale golf courses, he's found that newcomers often forget to check the dress codes, and sometimes choose the wrong tee. Oh, and there's an important rule when it comes to packing for a golf trip.

See the rest of his advice.

Also read:

• Nine hours at the most unhinged hole in golf

Nancy Meyers' enchanting aesthetic

The homes in Nancy Meyers' films — think "Something's Gotta Give" and "The Parent Trap" — are known for their impeccable interior design. Her homes have become one of the go-to styles for social-media users trying to create their own dream homes.

Jon Hutman, a production designer and interior designer, has worked on Meyers' films. To create a similar look, he says to start with a clear idea of what you want your space to look like before buying decor.

How to achieve a Meyers home.

Also read:

• 9 'coastal grandma' decor items to make your home look like a Nancy Meyers movie

Branding is everything

What do Lamborghini, Nobu, and Baccarat have in common? They're all luxury lifestyle brands, and they're all expanding into the world of luxury real estate.

High-status brands from the worlds of fashion, food, and auto are all lending their names to swanky residential towers from Miami to Dubai. For brand loyalists, they're an added perk. For developers, they're a cash cow.

Coming to a condo near you.

To vacay or not to vacay

Unlimited PTO is a double-edged sword. Take too much time off, and you risk being secretly judged or punished. Take too little, and you could burn out. While some employees have mastered the balance, others have learned that pushing the limits doesn't always pay off.

BI spoke with employees who've tested the boundaries of their companies' PTO policies. They explain how they found the sweet spot.

Maximize your unlimited PTO.

What we're watching this weekend

• "Furiosa": The "Mad Max" prequel starring Anya Taylor-Joy and Chris Hemsworth is available on Max.
• "Immaculate": Sydney Sweeney is a terrorized nun at an Italian convent in one of the year's best new horror movies, now streaming on Hulu.
• "Emily in Paris": The frothy Netflix show is back for its fourth season.

See the full list.

Deals we love

• Yet another trendy bottle: The Owala FreeSip Water Bottle is making its rounds on social media, but is it really worth it? Our kitchen editor put it to the test.
• Rare sale on diamonds: Blue Nile, one of our top-recommended jewelry retailers, is having an anniversary sale that can save you hundreds on diamond rings, bracelets, and more. Here are our favorites from the sale.
• iPhone 16 is on its way: September is coming soon, which is when Apple typically announces its newest iPhone. We've explored and debunked predictions about the new device so you know what to expect.

More of this week's top reads:

• Olympian breakdancer Raygun is the internet's newest villain.
• A couple tested out life in Canada and Italy. Here's where they chose to move.
• "Shut-up rings" are relationship red flags.
• Why one writer hated her experience at the Paris Olympics.
• A millennial and her retired parents are living the digital nomad life.
• Barcelona is the latest city to effectively ban Airbnbs.
• Review: Nine hours in Qatar Airways' newest airport lounge.
• One bride explains why she opted for a solo bachelorette party.
• Locals say tourism is killing Costa Rica's Blue Zone lifestyle.
• Tips for visiting the Amalfi Coast during its peak tourism season.
• Here's what the wealthy are actually ordering at bars right now.

The Insider Today team: Jordan Parker Erb, editor, in New York. Dan DeFrancesco, deputy editor and anchor, in New York City. Lisa Ryan, executive editor, in New York. Amanda Yen, fellow, in New York.