10 Tips for a Stress-Free Apartment Move During the New Year

Moving to a new apartment is exciting, but it can also be overwhelming. From packing to organizing utilities, there’s a lot to think about. As a former apartment manager and leasing consultant, I’ve seen firsthand how preparation can make all the difference. Whether you’re moving across town or to a new 

1. Create a Moving Timeline 

Planning ahead is key to avoiding last-minute stress. Start by listing everything that needs to be done before, during, and after your move. Break tasks into weekly goals, such as notifying your current landlord, scheduling movers, and transferring utilities.  

2. Declutter Before You Pack 

Moving is the perfect opportunity to downsize. Go through each room and decide what to keep, donate, or toss. Less clutter means fewer boxes, which saves time and money on your move.  

3. Research Movers Early  

If you’re hiring movers, book them as soon as possible. Check reviews, compare prices, and ask about insurance coverage for your belongings. If you’re handling the move yourself, reserve a moving truck or enlist friends for help.  

4. Pack Like a Pro 

Start packing non-essential items weeks in advance, leaving daily essentials for last. Use labels to mark boxes by room, and add a brief description of their contents. Keep valuables, important documents, and a small box of essentials (toothbrush, change of clothes, snacks) handy for the first night in your new apartment.  

5. Notify Your Landlord and Update Addresses 

Give your landlord proper notice according to your lease agreement. This not only ensures you get your security deposit back but also helps you maintain a good rental history. Don’t forget to update your address with the post office, banks, and subscriptions.  

6. Take Photos Before Moving Out 

Document the condition of your current apartment before handing over the keys. Photos serve as proof if there’s a dispute about damages or your security deposit.  

7. Measure Your New Apartment

Before moving day, confirm the dimensions of doorways, stairwells, and elevators at your new place. Knowing whether your furniture fits will save you from moving day headaches.  

8. Set Up Utilities in Advance 

Ensure your utilities (electricity, water, internet) are ready to go on move-in day. It’s no fun arriving at a new place only to find you don’t have lights or Wi-Fi.  

9. Plan for Cleaning  

Schedule time to clean your old apartment after moving out and your new one before moving in. This can help avoid cleaning fees from your landlord and ensures you start fresh in your new space.  

10. Know the Policies of Your New Apartment 

Every apartment community has its own set of rules and policies. Review your lease agreement to understand parking, pet policies, and maintenance procedures. Staying informed helps you avoid surprises and ensures you’re a considerate neighbor.   

With a little preparation and organization, moving doesn’t have to be stressful. These tips will help you tackle your apartment move like a pro, ensuring a smooth transition to your new home. Remember to check your lease agreements and apartment policies to stay informed every step of the way.  

Happy moving!

Nicholl McGuire is the owner and manager of this blog. Feel free to check out many helpful posts for over a decade of experience.

Long-Time Renters Who Plan to Move Next Year

If you've been a long-time resident in apartments for years, it's a familiar cycle. Neighbors move in and out while the rent keeps increasing. You might have grown accustomed to the quirks of your living space – be it the squeaky floors or the draft coming in through the windows. I can understand that feeling of both anticipation and nervousness that comes with knowing a move is looming ahead now after settling into a routine for a long time. Moving always brings that sense of starting over even if you've been through it once or many times before. Here are some tips to help you ease into the transition and possibly even make it enjoyable. 

 

Give your property manager the required move-out notice. 

 

Your current space no longer fits your needs as before. Be sure that your landlord knows you aren’t planning to renew. The sooner you notify in writing, the better to avoid incurring fees. 

 

Perhaps you're looking for a better neighborhood, a peaceful location, or better amenities. It’s normal to feel sentimental, overwhelmed, or even angry about it depending on the reason why you must move. Remember that change often leads to something better ahead. 

 

Make things easier and tidier before moving.

 

When you've been in one spot for a while; chances are you've gathered quite a bit of stuff by now! Why not use this opportunity to tidy up? Give away those clothes you haven't used in ages. Go through drawers, boxes, and bins to find things you don’t mind selling or giving away. Consider selling furniture that won't work in your new place, or you simply don’t like anymore. Moving with old possessions is a hassle! There’s something liberating about letting go of the old to make room for something new and exciting!

 

Understand your new apartment requirements.

 

After spending years in apartments, you probably have an idea of what suits your needs by now. Are you craving sunlight or an additional bedroom perhaps a quieter environment is a priority for you this time around. Maybe you're in the market for conveniences like a fitness center or in-unit laundry facilities. Make a checklist of must-haves for your new home and things that you could do without. This will make it easier for you and your leasing consultant to narrow down your search. 

 

Relocating comes with a price tag. From deposits to hiring movers, you might overlook the full extent of the expenses involved in moving to a new place. Be sure to budget extra for costs such as buying furniture or stocking up on cleaning supplies. Those little essentials that only become apparent when you're knee-deep in unpacking can add up. 

 

Research locations.

 

When thinking about relocating to an area or neighborhood and feeling a bit uncertain, it's important to spend some time getting to know the surroundings by strolling around and checking out the nearby cafes to soak up the vibe of the community. Check community forums and interview current residents in person to find out the pros and cons of each location. You can learn a lot from the people who already live there. 

 

Make sure to prepare in advance.

 

Start packing early or procrastinating until the deadline approaches. Begin by packing items that are not essential and gradually move on to necessities. Organize boxes based on the room they belong to and have a box, for use during the move containing essentials such, as toiletries chargers, and basic kitchen supplies. 

 

Put your touch on it.

 

Once the dust settles from all the moving commotion it's important to add your touch to make your new place feel like home again. Prepare your mind before moving in and envision yourself hanging up some pictures, arranging items around the place, and creating an atmosphere for yourself. This makes transitioning into your space much smoother and more comfortable. 

 

Making a change could be challenging when you've been residing in the apartment for years; however, every relocation brings chances for development and new experiences– from getting to know different neighbors to discovering a new neighborhood or simply sprucing up your daily habits. There's much excitement ahead. 

 

Relocating might feel like a lot to handle at first glance; however, it also presents an opportunity for a fresh start. Approach it gradually. Always keep in mind that each move brings you closer to building the life and home of your dreams.

Nicholl McGuire is the blog owner and also contributes to this fun blog for bored people, see here.

Apartment Shopping Tips for Those Out of Practice by Nicholl McGuire

 Apartments come in all shapes and sizes, and renting the right one can be a challenge. However, with the right information and knowledge of the current market, you can find an apartment at a great price. Here’s what potential renters need to know when shopping for an apartment.

Renters should start by understanding rental costs across the United States. According to the latest report from Apartment List, rental costs have increased 2.6% year-over-year in July 2020, with a median two-bedroom rent of $1,233 per month. This is lower than the national average of $1,487 per month for two bedrooms but still significantly higher than other major cities like New York and San Francisco.

It’s important for potential renters to also understand the rental market in their area and how it is doing compared to other cities. Property management companies across the United States are seeing an increase in demand, with some areas experiencing a shortage of available apartments. It’s important for renters to research their local market before making a decision.

Once you’ve done your research, it’s time to start looking for an apartment. One of the best ways to find a great deal is by searching online. There are a variety of websites and apps that offer listings for available apartments in your area. These sites often have filters that allow you to narrow down your search based on criteria such as price range and amenities.

 It’s important to investigate the actual apartment before signing a lease. Pay attention to details such as noise levels in the neighborhood and safety features like security cameras or locks on doors. It’s also a good idea to check for any signs of damage, such as water leaks or mold.

By doing your due diligence and understanding the current market, you can find an apartment at a great price. With some research and knowledge of the available options, renting your first apartment doesn’t have to be a daunting task. 

Further, keep in mind that many rental companies offer discounts or additional incentives for signing a lease. Be sure to ask about any available offers and take advantage of them to get the best deal. Additionally, many rental companies offer temporary leases or flexible payment plans that can help renters save money in the long run. Don’t be afraid to negotiate with the landlord or property manager for additional amenities or a lower rent. Doing so can help you get a great price on your next apartment.

Finally, make sure to budget for additional costs such as move-in fees, deposits, and other expenses that may come with renting an apartment. Taking the time to plan ahead can help you stay within your budget and get the most out of your rental experience. With a little bit of research and understanding of the current market, you can find a great apartment at a great price. 

Check out more useful tips on our blog about apartment rentals. This article has been around since 2011!

Apartment Shopping in the City? What You Need to Know about City Rentals

Shopping for an apartment can be a daunting process, especially in a bustling city. Finding your ideal apartment in the concrete jungle can feel like a needle in a haystack. And the numerous options and factors involved in the process can be overwhelming. However, knowing the common challenges that you might face when searching for an apartment in the city can help you prepare and approach the process with confidence and clarity.

Limited Space: One of the biggest challenges of searching for an apartment in the city is the limited space availability. The high demand for urban living often translates to a tight market for apartments, leading to limited options and smaller living spaces. Don't expect to find your dream spacious apartment with a balcony that overlooks Central Park if you're not willing to spend a fortune on it. However, with the right mindset and expectations, you can find an apartment that meets your needs without breaking the bank.

High Rental Prices: City rents can be shockingly high compared to other places, and it's no secret that the cost of living in cities is higher. Therefore, budgeting for your apartment search is crucial. Determine your affordability range and stick to it. Researching different neighborhoods and their rental prices can help you make better choices. And remember, it's not just about the apartment's rental price; utilities, moving costs, and other living expenses also factor into your budgeting.

Finding Pet-Friendly Accommodations: If you're a pet owner, finding a pet-friendly apartment in the city can add an extra layer of stress to the already complicated hunt. Many buildings and landlords have restrictions on pets, such as a certain weight limit or type of pet. Be upfront about your pet when inquiring about potential apartments to save yourself from wasting time on places that are a no-go. Some landlords may also require pet deposits or additional fees, so factor that into your budget too.

Timing and Competition: In cities where the demand for apartments is high, rental properties can go fast. It's important to consider the timing of your apartment search. Certain times of the year, such as summer or the end of the year, can be peak rental seasons, making it harder to find an available apartment. Additionally, you'll be competing with other hopeful renters who are also searching for their ideal home, so be prepared to act quickly when you find an apartment you like.

Transportation and Parking: Living in a city means that owning a car may not be necessary. However, if you do own a car, you'll need to consider parking and transportation options. Depending on where you live, you may have to pay a monthly fee for parking, or there may not be any street parking available. Alternatively, you might have to rely on public transportation, which can be a convenient and cost-effective option, but it also has its downsides. Do your research and consider all your options before choosing the best transportation method for your lifestyle.

Although shopping for an apartment in the city comes with its fair share of challenges, with the right mindset and research, it doesn't have to be overly problematic. Evaluate your budget, needs, and lifestyle preferences and start your search armed with knowledge. Keep your expectations realistic, and be prepared to act fast when you find something that fits the bill. Remember, this is the place you'll be calling home, so take your time, ask questions, and don't settle for less than what works for you. Happy hunting!

Have you ever rented in the city? Feel free to share your thoughts. If you would like to be featured on this blog, feel free to fill out the contact form. 

Check out a great blog for those who are in relationships or dating, here.

Apartment Decorating - Shop with Our Small Business Partners

 Over the years we have partnered with many businesses looking to meet the needs of those who are moving once again! We know how you don't want to bring your past with you so off it goes to the local donation center. So if you are starting anew or you know one of your favorite people that is doing just that, feel free to check out the cool artwork of our partners. Your purchase goes along way in helping their businesses and showing our blog some support, happy shopping and many thanks from all of us!

Check these awesome gift shops still growing, still building, do follow for their latest creations:

1) Something for the children especially those refrigerator magnets, so cute! You will love what you see, see here: Imagine If 

2) Something for those who love stillness and quiet, Stillness Gifts. We love the artwork that provokes thought, imagination and raises those energy vibrations, stop by and enjoy! 

3) Something for those who love mom and any other lovely ladies that bring out the best in you! We found the artwork and journals very pretty and useful too adding on to our decor! Take a moment to check out both stores: Gifts for Her and Something4Mom

4) Something for those who love fast and strong animals like the tiger and cheetah. Our guys liked some of these eye-catching designs, show off your strength! Also mad respect, for bringing awareness to the slow extinction of the tiger. check it out! Eye of the Tiger

5) Something for those who love God, Jesus...these bold and beautiful designs are for those who are serious-minded about their faith, see EGP Gift Shop

6) Something for those who have a sense of humor and love fun stuff like we do! Take a look: 

Say What You Mean

How to Get an Apartment if You Don't Meet the 3x the Rent Rule - Adulting Shouldn't Suck

FAQs from Apartment Shoppers Answered by a Former Multi-Family Housing Property Manager

Looking for a new apartment can be daunting. Between finding the right neighborhood and sorting through all of the different floor plans, it's easy to feel overwhelmed. That's why we've put together this list of FAQs specifically for apartment shoppers, answered by our very own blogger, Nicholl, former property manager. Keep reading to learn everything you need to know about renting an apartment! 

 Q: How do I know if an apartment is right for me? 

 A: The best way to figure out if an apartment is right for you is to schedule a tour and see the unit in person. This will give you a chance to get a feel for the layout of the apartment and the surrounding neighborhood. Once you've toured the apartment, ask yourself if it feels like somewhere you could see yourself living happily for the next year or two. If not, keep looking! 

 Q: How can I tell if an apartment complex is well-maintained? 

 A: During your apartment tour, be sure to take note of the condition of common areas like the lobby, hallways, and laundry room. These areas should be clean and in good repair. If you see any signs of neglect, it's a good idea to move on to another apartment complex. 

 Q: How do I know if an apartment is safe? 

 A: The best way to gauge the safety of an apartment complex is to speak with the property manager. They should be able to tell you about any security features that are in place, like gated entryways or on-site security guards. You can also ask your tour guide about the neighborhood surrounding the apartment complex and whether they feel it is safe to walk around at night. However, they will not provide any specific information.  They are trained to say things like, "Crime has no address."  They cannot guarantee your safety.

Q: What kind of maintenance or repair assistance can I expect from my apartment complex? 

 A: Most apartment complexes have staff members who are responsible for taking care of common areas and responding to maintenance requests from residents. If you have a specific question about what kind of assistance you can expect, be sure to ask the property manager during your tour. They should be able to give you a clear idea of what kinds of services are available. 

 Q: How do I know if an apartment is pet-friendly? 

 A: Some apartment complexes allow pets but with breed restrictions and some do not, so this is definitely something you'll want to clarify before signing a lease. If you do have a pet, be prepared to pay an additional deposit as well as pet rent each month. You may also be required to provide proof of vaccination and take your pet through a meet-and-greet with the property manager. 

 Q: How do I apply for an apartment? 

 A: The first step in applying for an apartment is to submit a rental application. This will include your contact information, employment history, and rental history. If you have no job, you will need to provide a substantial savings, proof of lottery winnings, or an impressive retirement portfolio.  Since each property management company has different requirements, call before you visit to find out what is acceptable proof of income. You may also be required to provide a credit report and background check. Once your application has been approved, you'll sign a lease and pay any required deposits or fees.  Most property management companies expect you to move in within two weeks of receiving approval. 

 We hope this list of FAQs has been helpful as you start shopping for your new apartment! Remember, the best way to find the perfect place is to take your time, tour several units, and ask lots of questions. To your success in finding a great place to stay!

Take your internet searches to the next level!  Discover websites you may not have ever thought of and learn how others are saving time, money, and using the latest innovative apps.  Get your copy of What Else Can I Do on the Internet? today!

What to Do When a Landlord Refuses to Make Apartment Repairs?

Rent escrow is a process where a tenant withholds rent payments from their landlord in order to pressure the landlord into making repairs to the apartment. This can be an effective way to get a slum landlord to make necessary repairs, but it can also lead to eviction if the tenant does not follow the proper procedures. In most cases, the tenant must first notify the landlord of the needed repairs and give them a reasonable amount of time to make the repairs. If the repairs are not made within that time frame, the tenant can then begin withholding rent. The withheld rent is typically placed in an escrow account, and once the repairs are made, the tenant will release the funds to the landlord. While this process can be effective, it is important to note that it should only be used as a last resort after all other attempts to get the landlords to make necessary repairs have failed.

If you're a tenant in an apartment that's in need of repair, it can be difficult to get your landlord to take action. After all, it's in their best interest to keep costs low and maximum profits high. However, there are a few things you can do to try and get the repairs you need. First, it's important to document the problem. Take pictures or videos of the issues and keep a log of when they occurred. This will be helpful if you need to take legal action later on. Next, reach out to your landlord in writing and request that they make the necessary repairs. If they don't respond or refuse to take action, you can contact your city's housing inspection department and schedule an apartment inspection. The inspector will assess the apartment and if they determine that it's not up to code, your landlord will be required to make the necessary repairs. Finally, if all else fails, you can reach out to a lawyer or file a lawsuit against your landlord. While this may seem extreme, sometimes it's the only way to get them to take action. So, if you're struggling to get your landlord to make repairs, don't give up – there are still options available to you.  The following is a move-in experience that some of you might relate to.

After a month of waiting for her landlord to address the issues in her apartment, the resident started to feel frustrated and uncomfortable. The sink was clogged and creating a foul odor, the ac was dirty, loose fixtures were falling off, the washer and dryer weren't working properly, and there was a leak underneath the sink. She tried to reach out to her landlord, but he wasn't responding to her requests. So, she turned to a rent escrow service to help her get the repairs done.

Notice, she waited.  How long have you been waiting?

If you're renting an apartment, it's important to be aware of your rights when it comes to repairs and maintenance. According to the law, landlords are required to keep their rental properties in habitable condition. This means that they must make sure that the apartment is safe and clean and that all essential services (like heat, water, and electricity) are working properly. Once again, if your landlord doesn't want to make repairs, you have a few options. First, you can try to speak with them directly and explain why the repairs are necessary. If that doesn't work, you can contact your local code enforcement office or apartment association. In some cases, you may even be able to withhold rent until the repairs are made so do review your lease contract. However, it's always best to consult with a legal professional before taking any drastic measures.

How Do You Know You Have Outgrown an Apartment?

Like children, we outgrow some things in life and some of you are outgrowing your rentals.  You are giving everyone grief around you.  Driving through the apartment complex parking lot like a bat out of hell, you practically run to your apartment praying the whole way that no one stops to talk to you.  You are arguing with your roommates.  Talking badly about your neighbors.  You have thoughts of suing the landlord, the property management company, the contractors, and anyone else you meet almost weekly.  Yes, one has outgrown his or her rental dwelling.  So now what?  You start looking for a place like yesterday!  Stop talking yourself into staying at the rental, talk yourself out of it!

1) You know you have outgrown the apartment when more people have moved in since you first signed the lease.  You also know that you are breaking the rules when the leasing office is unaware that you have others living there.  You might be out sooner rather than later depending on the type of manager or management company that is running the place.  

2)  You understand since the early days of your moving there, you just aren't getting along with anyone such as: family members, the office staff, and your neighbors.  That's not a "they" problem, that's a you problem!

3) You look around and the place is just too small, too big, too something.  Yes, you need to make plans and get gone, Goldilocks!

4) When you go from room-to-room every time you use or look at something, it is broken and there is no getting anything fixed.  Now why are you paying rent again?  You might want to put your next rental payment in escrow while you're still under contract.

5)  You simply hate driving to and from the community.  You find yourself passing by the apartment complex with a sigh of relief on some days only to come back and say, "What the...?"  It's just too much going on at your spot, I get it.  

6) You have fantasized about doing awful things to the management.  Okay, let's not get carried away, to jail that is!  It's simply not worth it.

7) You know it's time to move when you find yourself spending more time everywhere else than where you stay.  

When you or someone else you know is thinking and doing things that scream, "Get me out!" It is safe to say that one has outgrown the apartment.  Time to go all out and find something that you really like.  In the meantime, until the lease is up or you have the money to pay the lease break fee, try to get some things done in your humble abode that will make you feel a bit at ease.

Nicholl McGuire is the owner of this blog and the author of What Else Can I Do on the Internet?

What to Expect When Renting a Terrace Level Apartment or Lower Floor Unit for a Great Price

You see an apartment rental available and you are amazed at the price!  What, it can't be?  You are overjoyed with your discovery!  You don't care that it is terrace level maybe you don't even know what that is.  A terrace level unit is a ground level apartment complete with either a street view, garden view or a neighboring building--ugh.  Yes, you are starting from the bottom, but hey, one day you will be on top!  

Now I get that you want that bargain, that deal, a steal that is going to save you lots of money and make possibly a parent or partner proud.  However, are those headaches in the future worth it.  Shall I be your apartment rental prophetess?  Let's take you on a journey of what your challenges renting this unit might bring you!

1) Overhead noise, next door, and street level.

Loud walking, running or jumping might send you over the edge one day!  Without thick flooring in between floors and even thicker cement or brick walls separating you from your neighbor's boom tv, ear-splitting yells from children, frequent disputes with a partner, you will hear the noise!  

Before you rush to see the unit or sign a lease contract at the prompting of the friendly staff at the leasing office, notice what is around the rental unit's location.  Are there trees and bushes and no recreational areas?  Then maybe this might work out if you want that quiet secluded feeling, but there's still that neighbor overhead and possibly next door.  If there is street level parking, sporting areas or an active pool community, you will hear the noise but not so much if the windows are double-pane glass and if the communities are further away.  

Most leasing consultants and apartment managers will either downplay noise or will not speak on it at all, because they know you wouldn't lease especially if you already told them, "Listen, I don't do a lot of noise!"  However, if the price is right, they are hoping the noise won't be so bad after all for you.  "Wow, the unit is a few hundred dollars less!" you say. Yes it is, keep in mind there are plenty of not-so good reasons for this and you need to uncover what they are! 

2) Insects and rodents.

You live close to the ground so why wouldn't they visit?  The water and food source are conveniently located to possibly their nests, tunnels and other places they like to hide.  The last neighbor might have seen their ugly faces a little too much and so they ran him or her off!  So if bugs bother you, you will need to do your part to ensure they avoid your apartment as much as possible.  (I talk about this on the blog, look up my bug-proofing tips).  Do you have the time, money and energy to invest eradicating these critters long after pest control just walks through the apartment doing their money-grabbing quick spray?  Constant bug vistors need constant attention and the most powerful bait known to man.  Sure, get your bargain basement unit, but be prepared to fight bugs in the kitchen, bathroom and anywhere they plan to let you know who was here first!  

3) Neighbors who litter.

All glossy-eyed still over that price knowing you don't like noise and bugs, but hey, you got a plan, right?  However, the biggest bugs of them all are disrespectful neighbors who have a disregard for the environment.  Some of them sincerely believe that the ground is their trash can, so over the balcony they throw their cigarette butts, water bottles, uneaten food, wrappers, and some of you know the rest because you do it.  What a shame!  So the guys and girls in the leasing office didn't tell you that if the groundskeeper doesn't make it to your location on a daily basis or maybe not at all, that's right, you will be picking up after your nasty neighbors!  So there you go, saving money on renting the place, but taking on another role other than renter, trash picker-upper!

4) Sewage and water drainage systems and foundational cracks.

You're not a structural engineer and you don't know jack about drainage systems.  So guess what you are going to do, you're not going to inspect the building's exterior at ground level for foundational  cracks.  You will be too busy looking at the pretty stuff to see any mold and mildew while your ignoring your God-given gift of smell.  You most likely will casually stroll by the nearby pipes coming out of the ground covered or uncovered while your talking to the leasing professional about what, "I want...I need..."  You just might miss the plastic hoses that are suppose to redirect water away from the terrace level apartment.  They are just strewn here or there above ground.  Further, who cares about those drain downspouts starting to come off the building or those plastic rain gutters that are constantly moved by the landscapers.  

The next rainfall at that cheap unit just might bring more than you bargained for and maintenance knows it even if the leasing staff claims, "I'm so sorry, I didn't know." They probably really didn't know, they were thinking of their commission.  Fast forward you are living in that terrace apartment with the issues but you got it for a steal, you look out your window, "Is that freakin' poop on the patio, baby wipes and what the #@%$& is that?" you yell.  Yes, it is a sewage drain backup and I think you also have a leak coming from somewhere too!  Now who is going to clean that mess up?

5) Low-level windows

Ever feel insecure, watched scary movies, worried someone is going to see your open window and come right in.  The villain is there seated at your table eating a sandwich and drinking your favorite beer?  If the very thought of that scares you, then why are you even considering getting a lower unit?  But if you are that guy or gal who has protection waiting for the villain, then no worries there just secure your spot with all sorts of locks and alarms.

6) Poor lighting.

Unfortunately, with some apartment complexes, the terrace levels are just not well-lit--shadows in the breezeway, behind the building and elsewhere.  If there is ever a power outage with no emergency lighting, it can be pitch black walking down those stairs and sidewalks.  Keep your phone or a flashlight handy at all times especially if you work at night.

7) Flooding from above.

Oh yes, nothing like waking up to your neighbor's "issues" showering down on you--hope it wasn't the toilet overflowing!  It happens and you don't fully realize what you have gotten yourself into until you can't get a hold of maintenance or a plumber to help you in that moment!  You start to think back to when you toured the place and didn't pay attention to those old water markings or maybe they had been there the whole time but a little splash of paint prior to your arrival and it made yesterday's troubles just disappear.  Keep a bucket handy and a mop and/or a shopvac just in case you just got to get the unit, because there just isn't anything else out there, are you sure?

Now after all of that and you know what to expect, you may have no choice but to go forward until your money is right!  I get it, so with that said, invest in everything you need to bring you some comfort.  The leasing staff will not meet your every need.  Let me say that again for the stubborn one who thinks he or she can and will be happy forever and always after repeated phone calls and visits, the leasing and maintenance staff will not meet your every need especially if it costs alot and your issues are not what they consider an emergency!  Yeah, I know sucks.  So do your part, put your concerns in writing, record the unit, and reach out to a trusted friend who can be that second pair of eyes for you to see what you don't want to see!

Happy hunting!

Nicholl McGuire is the owner of this blog and the author of What Else Can I do on the Internet?  

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Bug Proofing Tips: On Keeping Your Apartment Bug Free - Be Vigilant!

 Calling pest control is not enough!  When there are holes, cracks and crevices, bugs and rodents will find a way in!  Whether you have a utility closet with space between the door and wall or a window with a hole in a screen, the key is to not only treat the area, but seal it off.  Check out door draft stoppers or make your own.

In the photo below, it is clear this is an old doorway wood frame, the resident sealed it with a transparent all purpose caulk (not the white in color). Bugs stopped coming in from the bottom of the wood frame and were also sealed off at the top.  If you spray pest control at the bottom of the frame, the bugs will eventually find their way at the top or redirect to other openings. So check every possible area they can run and show up later!

Now in this next photo below, depending on where the water source is located, you will want to consider sealing around the piping with an easy to remove plumber's caulk if permitted.  Some concerned residents will use steel wool which also works.  Easy to remove caulking is important if piping needs to be repaired.  

Bugs and rodents love warm places like underneath the refrigerator.  Wouldn't you want to keep these critters at bay?  So be sure you don't make it comfortable for them under the refrigerator.  Set traps and repellant.  You can use essential oils they don't like or bait for them to carry back to a nest.

Pests love under the dishwasher because that is a good water source especially if there are leaks.  

Once again make it uncomfortable for them!

Did you open the cabinet over the microwave where the power supply is?  What does the space look like up there?  If there is a significant opening, seal it off around the power cord.  

Behind the stove has much activity because that is a warm place with a ready food source.  What does the power supply back there look like?  Are there holes? Seal them off!

Didn't think about the space around light switches?  Bugs when on the run will not only come out around the outlet but inside it too!

The metal part around the shower comes loose over time and when it does, bugs don't mind visiting while you are in the shower! Yuck!

Around the toilet is a convenient place to run when the light comes on in the bathroom.  Be sure there isn't a lot of space for the bigger insects to hide and birth babies!

A baseboard cover is surely not enough particularly if it doesn't meet the floor tightly.  So grab that transparent caulk and start squeezing where the flooring has dips just be neat about it.

What do we have here?  A closed window, great.  However, even if the window is closed, 

be sure there are no cracks on the window seal and around it that is a breeding ground for small insects like those pesty gnats!

Now what are you looking at you might ask? Between a wooden door and a door frame along the side rather than the top and bottom.  There is a plastic rubber seal that seals along the sides because unfortunately there is a gap from the building shifting over time.

This vent was sealed off with a vent filter on the inside and outside and a homemade trap around it after the ducts had been cleaned out-- a just in case measure--lol. It isn't necessary to go to this extreme unless you have a severe problem.

A bug repellant is in the outlet and the openings are covered to prevent the smaller insects from visiting overnight.

Plenty of insect repellant was sprayed not just in the door tracks but along the sides and on the deck. No problems with insects reported.  You have to do this repeatedly over a series of weeks to all entry points before the insects and rodents finally realize, "Oh, I'm not welcome?"  Right, so stay away!

The front door has an additional wood frame secured at the bottom, weather stripping on the outside and inside for a tight seal at the bottom. Also a small piece of weather stripping on the inside was placed to cover a small section where there was an opening. 

A plastic draft guard that goes up the side of another door frame with a large hidden gap.

Top of the door frame closed off due to a gap at the top of the door where light had once came in which attracted some of the larger bugs.

Other tips to keep bugs away include: use light sources that don't attract bugs, use plug-in repellants, place plants that repel bugs and rodents in and around the home, drop essential oils such as: lavender, peppermint, eucalyptus and tea tree oil that bugs don't like on cotton balls and place around the home, use repellant or kill on contact sprays where problems persist corners, crevices, and entry points. Lastly, run a diffuser with the scents bugs simply don't like during key times when they are known to come out such as 9:30 p.m. to 11:30 p.m. 

 Consider using fly traps on windows and sticky traps suspended from known problem areas.  Rodent traps are helpful to catch the unwelcome visitor, but what good are they if you won't bother to search where the rodent showed up.  Fight for your peace of mind and your dwelling--unwelcome guests are strictly prohibited!  I hope these tips were helpful!

Nicholl McGuire

Blog Owner

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