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.

Rent is Due - Avoid the Hassle, Pay as soon as possible

Something that I didn't focus on as much as I do now (mind you over a decade later) money!  I am back as an assistant manager in property management and the focus these days, rent collection!

You see, I didn't have that issue back in the day.  People simply paid their rent and mostly on time.  But these days, we have our share of renters who don't stay on top of rent payments (sigh).

Here's what some of you who rent apartments can do to save yourself a lot of headache in the future especially with the holidays coming up!

1)  You know you can't pay the full amount well in advance, contact your landlord/manager.
Why do that to yourself, mentally worry about the rent?  If you have no way of paying all your rent by deadline, you know what to do, call or stop by the Leasing Office.

2)  Cut your personal spending at least two to four weeks weeks prior to rent being due.  (You really don't need another thing on Amazon when your rent is due like next week.)  There is no one or nothing as important as having a roof over your head.  Stop caring about holidays and gift-giving and pay your rent on time every time!  If you must do it all, consider additional sources of income like a part-time job for starters.

3)  Have a list of helpful resources in case you need assistance paying rent.  Reach out to charities online, support groups, nonprofit organizations and even places that provide rental assistance based on your profession or club association.  Explore those options before calling the office once again saying, "I'll be late with rent..."

4)  Watch your communication with your landlord and neighbors whether online or offline.  Interesting how people want some understanding when they are in a tough situation, yet they will talk disrespectful, complain, and downright act rude.  You never know what connections your landlord might have to help you, it would make sense to be professional and polite, now wouldn't it?

5)  Lastly, if all else fails, start shopping around for a cheaper place to stay.  Some community managers will cut you a break if you must end your lease early.

Things to do to be sure your rent is on time next month:

1) Take a portion of your first check (at least 40% and put it toward the rent in a separate account).  Your second paycheck put aside 60%.

2)  Calculate all utility expenses and set that amount aside each month.  You can get an estimate of what upcoming utilities might be by looking at a ledger that details how much you have paid in the past.

3)  Don't allow any adult to stay at your place, eat from your fridge, or use your water without making a contribution to your household.

4)  Avoid paying for a pet when you know you can't make ends meet.  Find out if someone else can care for your pet until you can get on your feet.

5)  Research ways to make additional money.

6)  Consider making a home purchase if you can afford it.  The monthly mortgage payments might be a better option for you, but keep in mind you will need to save more money in the event an appliance needs to be replaced or something needs to be fixed.

7)  Consult with a financial planner and a debt consolidation agency to assist with your current debt and investments.  You will find you are probably paying too much interest on credit cards and spending far more money than you can afford.

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

Rodents and Insects Looking for a Place to Call Home

I started to notice the influx of insects and rodents coming in homes during the latter part of August, September and October especially spiders.  Residents don't often think of the bugs and rodents until they show up in number.  It is never too late to start safeguarding your home especially during those times when the weather is temporarily great, but then makes a major shift back to cold.

Look around your home where insects and rodents might potentially hide.  Under refrigerators, behind furniture near heating vents, and in cabinets near floors are cozy places for them to experience a bit of warmth, comfort and food.  Store edibles in higher cabinets and on shelves.  Clean underneath and behind furniture periodically.  Notice trails of rodent droppings (typically black in color and very small) and also spider webs.

Stock up on insect spray and bait, mouse traps, bait, and repellents before things get out of control.  Take trash out and clean dishes often.  Sweep and mop flooring at least two or three times a week especially if you have a lot of food preparation going on in the kitchen and entertaining in the living and dining room areas.  Seal food well and don't leave it out overnight.  Clean counter-tops and cabinets well with a disinfectant particularly when there are spills.

A common problem that residents make is leaving front and patio doors open without closing screens securely.  Mice will find their way in wherever there is an opening.  They also don't bother to report holes around their apartments including under the sink or cracks along floors, baseboards, and other places.  Fireplaces aren't closed when not in use and neither are windows without screens either.  So it isn't any wonder that visitors come in and stay for awhile.

Take precautions and do your part to ensure that your home is insect and mice free!  You can call the leasing office at your location or landlord to make arrangements for pest control to spray your place.

Have a pest-free fall season!

Nicholl McGuire

6 Things to Do Before You Agree to Rent

1)  Walk the apartment that you will be staying in.

Look for things like mold, mildew, dead insects, mouse droppings, and soft spots on the flooring and walls.  Turn knobs, pull out drawers, and open doors.  By doing these things you will know if housekeeping, maintenance, and pest control are on top of their jobs.  If they can’t get a vacant right, then imagine what it would be like if a problem arises while you are living there.

2)  Be sure you are renting the apartment that you saw (not the model).

Sometimes what you see isn’t always what you get.  So if you toured a vacant apartment, be sure that is the one that you get.

Photo by Hans Eiskonen on Unsplash

3)  Note any unsightly appearances and problems with appliances prior to move in.

Be sure all issues are dealt with prior to move-in.  If you don’t, those problems might not be addressed during your stay.  Document your findings and send to the property manager and/or create a work order online if that service is offered.

4)  Review lease slowly and be certain that everything is correct especially the monthly dollar amount.

Never sign without going over pricing in detail otherwise you are legally bound to the contracted amount for the duration of the lease.

5)  Walk the property during the weekend and at night.

Find out what apartments are coming available then walk by them during the evening and night.  You are listening for noise, checking for litter, and noticing odd smells.  Chances are the former residents may have moved due to neighbors, but maybe not. If you can’t immediately view the apartment, this is the least you should do until the apartment becomes available.

6)  Check to be certain all amenities illustrated are included.

Unfortunately, some companies claim to have enjoyable amenities available to all, but upon move-in you realize that some amenities are being worked on or altogether removed.  You also discover some fees you may not have noticed during lease signing.  Know whether the amenities still exist or not and if there are related charges by doing the following:  walking the community and checking them out for yourself, ask residents whether they work, find out if residents are paying a fee to use, and check review sites looking for any unfavorable report about the amenities.

You can never be too sure about whether an apartment community is right for you so do your due diligence!  Hopefully, the staff is transparent with you and others from that first encounter, but if you should discover they are not, move on!

Nicholl McGuire is the author of What Else Can I Do on the Internet? and other books.

New Year, New Location: The Apartment Shopping Plan

Whether you are comfortable for now where you live, but hope to move later in the year or you are ready like yesterday to move, but just can't at this time.  Either way, a comprehensive, yet simple plan for apartment shopping can be most helpful.

1) Consider what your interests might be.  People change.  What may have been most important when you were looking for a place about a year or so ago may not be now.  Re-evaluate what your apartment preferences are and write them down.

2) Check out the location you desire to live.  Will it be close to work or further away?  What does the area offer that would be beneficial to you and your family?

3)  If you are thinking about moving out of town, make plans to visit first.  Sometimes people do apply online for an apartment without seeing it first and all works out, but other times it doesn't.  If you are picky, sensitive to noise and smells, it is best to see the place in-person.  Plan those personal or vacation days so you can check the apartment community and the nearby city out.

Photo by Hans Eiskonen on Unsplash

4)  Don't seek out the cheapest, rather seek out quality.  Don't seek out a place with all the bells and whistles if you know you won't be utilizing everything.  You know what you can afford, but you don't have to settle for less and you also don't want to be at a costly apartment with little money left-over for groceries.

5)  If you haven't wrote out all your current expenses, you might want to do that before you sit down with a leasing professional.  It is embarrassing and a waste of time and money (application fees) when you view and apply for an apartment that is clearly out of your price range.  Although the professionals can be most helpful, they are also salesmen and women and their jobs are to get those vacant suites occupied.  

6)  Lastly, what is your timeline?  So many people don't have a clue when they are moving yet.  This can be a problem because the apartment you really like will not be held for you, the prices change often and you most likely won't get the best deal, and leasing professionals as well as prospects don't like to chase one another down for a response.  Know when you plan to move-in!

7)  Once you know your expenses, what you can afford, where you want to live and most of all your move-in date, schedule your appointments, stick to them and make a decision.  List which apartments you like best to least.  If you should be late or can't make it to a showing, communicate this to the staff.  First impressions can be lasting ones!  So be courteous and professional from the start!

Happy apartment shopping this year!

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

Don't Ignore Argumentative Neighbors, Loud Noises

With the weather cooling off and on again off again couples choosing to stay home rather than go outdoors as often, there is bound to be problems indoors.  Arguing, thumping, crashing sounds, and more go on in some apartments with emotional relationships and if you aren't too careful, you might be the nosy neighbor caught in the couple's cross-fire walking down the hallway.  So what to do about your noisy neighbors?

First, file a formal complaint with the leasing office.  Be sure you have typed or penned the letter with a copy saved for yourself.  Note the day and time each incident occurred and any other information that might be helpful to the staff.

Next, avoid confrontation with neighbors.  If you feel like you can't approach them about the noise, don't.  The last thing you need is for the pair to turn on you and cause problems.

Third, if others are complaining, encourage them to contact the office.  The more complaints, the more likely they will have to move.

Lastly, if the noise is very bad and you are concerned for someone's safety, call the police.  You never know you just might be the one who saves a life.

Ignoring turbulent couples who can't stand to live together, but can't stand being apart can be a neighbor's worst nightmare.  You don't know if they have guns or other weapons they plan on using.  You don't know if one or both is so intoxicated that someone might end up being murdered.  You can never be too careful, so be proactive and do what's right, but avoid approaching them in the heat of a battle especially when you don't know who or what is behind the door.

Nicholl McGuire maintains this blog and is grateful for the kind neighbor who over 20 plus years ago made a phone call that saved her life.

Is Renting Apartments Always A Waste Of Money?

6 Signs it Might Be Time to Enlist the Help of Apartment Search Services in Your Area

With so many people looking for cheap apartments, one and two bedroom apartments, and other affordable dwellings, when is it a good time to hire someone else to look for you? 

1)  When you are becoming increasingly irritated with yourself and/or roommates and can't seem to agree on anything.

2)  When you find yourself ready to make a rash decision, but you know deep within you really don't like the unit you have chosen that much.

3)  When you have no clue about the area you are moving into.

4)  When you keep finding apartments that are unsuitable.

5)  When you are far too busy doing other things to devote much attention to apartment searching.

6)  When your family member or friend has backed out of moving in with you.

These and other reasons will push you into seeking additional apartment search help.  You shouldn't go at it alone and become more stressed.  It is difficult enough looking for a place to stay especially in unfamiliar territory so why not seek a local relocation service to lighten your load. 

Nicholl McGuire is the author of What Else Can I Do on the Internet?

Apartments for Rent

This year you might be planning to relocate.  If so, you will need to search for an apartment.  There are those popular magazines to seek an apartment, but there are other tools and places to seek a rental.  Try the following search phrases below, happy apartment shopping!

property management companies include the state or city you plan on moving.

classified ads rentals include the state, city or both.

apartments in include the area of interest.

apartments for rent narrow your search.

Other keyword you might want to include:

town homes, town houses, desired rental rate, floor plan, how many bedrooms, add the word "near" if you want an apartment home by a freeway, park, restaurants, etc.

Websites to Help with Property Related Concerns

Renters' Rights

Renters' Rights & Tenants' Rights - Nolo.com

Rental Help, Resources

Renters Rights


Apartment Shopping

Apartment Ratings - Official Site

Apartment Reviews | Apartment Ratings | Apartments For Rent

Apartment Guide

Yelp

Apartments.com: Apartments and Homes for Rent

All Property Management


Apartment Maintenance

Can My Apartment Custodian Fix That?

3 Apartment Decorating Challenges (And How to Fix Them ...

How to Fix Common Damage Issues Before Moving Out ...

Skip the landlord: 5 quick apartment fixes you can do ...

The Fix For Slow Wifi - Apartment Therapy

A Tenant's Rights to Landlord Repairs - FindLaw

Stacked cargo containers in New Haven's "LEGO" apartments

Decorating Small Spaces, Studio and Efficiency Apartments| Tips & Ideas

Too Crowded, Too Loud at Your Residence?

It happens, you end up settling with a residence that is too crowded and loud.  You really wish you could be anywhere but where you are.  But for now, you feel stuck.  Some things you can do to relieve some stress:

1.  Plan activities so you are not always home especially on weekends.

2.  Sound proof a room and invest in some ear phones for radio, TV, computer, etc.

3.  Find instruments that you can play using headphones.

4.  Don't worry over problem neighbors who are too loud, file a complaint with the landlord or police.

5.  Always be on the look out for available apartments in your community or in a desired location.

6.  Save your money for an upcoming move and check your lease on when to give a notice.

7.  Don't invite family and friends over, rather go where they are or arrange to meet somewhere.

You can probably think of other ways to bring peace to your situation.  Try your best to look on the bright side especially when you see yet another homeless man or woman on the street.  Count your blessings!  Do check this site on ways to remedy problems from maintenance issues to pests.

Nicholl McGuire has lived in many different areas over 20 years including Ohio, Pennsylvania and California.  She has also managed and leased units.  Nowadays, she stays in a multi-family dwelling with amenities including a pool she will never use.  Enjoy this blog, feel free to subscribe today!

Calling All Apartment Shoppers, Leasing Consultants, Managers, Realtors

Share your real estate knowledge, resources, and other useful information with an audience that is often looking for apartments, homes, and more. 

We welcome business professionals, new renters, and others to this blog.  We have been around for years now showcasing some of the most interesting work about communities, people, and more.

We hope that you will consider sharing a blog post, resource, video, or something else related to the property management industry, your property, etc. 

Gain more exposure for your business, YouTube channel, and other social networking sites.  Send all correspondence to nichollmcguire@gmail.com to be featured on this site in the near future.  All the best to you!

Blog Owner Provides Tips and Features Fellow Organizers on Home Organization Site

It isn't just apartments that Nicholl McGuire, this blog owner, former community manager and leasing consultant talks about on and offline, but she features some of the best organizers and their useful ideas on a home organization blog.  If your place is in need of a serious make-over or a simple fix, then stop by http://organizerhome.blogspot.com  Receive the latest posts simply by subscribing today!

Tweet: Do something different with your bedroom, living-room, kitchen, basement, etc. http://ctt.ec/WbJYf+

The Serviced Apartments vs Hotels

The Serviced Apartments vs Hotels

Types of Apartments You Might Be Interested In

If you plan on moving this year, there are a variety of dwellings you may not have considered moving into, but for the right price, who knows?  Look up the following in your favorite browser window and include your desired location.  Happy shopping!

1.  Garage apartments
2.  Studio apartments
3.  Loft apartments
4.  Small apartments
5.  Bungalows (not an apartment more like a very small home).
6.  Basement apartments
7.  Flats
8.  Penthouse
9.  Single room occupancy
10.  Condo

If you plan on moving out to California, feel free to stop by this location site that features many cities in the state.

All the best to you with your apartment shopping experiences!

New Luxury Loop Apartments with Over-the-Top Amenities