Tips On Apartment HuntingTiming is Crucial

The housing market is competitive, especially for affordable apartments. Be prepared to make decisions quickly and be flexible by a week or two with your plans. Start your search no earlier than four weeks before your desired move-in date since tenants are not required to give landlords more than 30 days’ notice of their move-out dates. Make apartment hunting your life for two or three weeks - that should be enough time to get familiar with the market and find what you are looking for.
Focus Your Search According to Your Budget New York City is an expensive housing market and you will likely be forced to make compromises in your choice. Monthly rents will vary depending on several factors; the most important of which is location, followed by apartment size and then amenities.
Decide if You Are Willing to Share an Apartment – You can cut costs by sharing a large one bedroom. To find a roommate, check the listings for apartment shares in the OCHA Housing Registry. Consider Where You Can Afford to Live - Manhattan apartments are in the greatest demand and consequently rents are the highest here compared to other boroughs or nearby suburbs. In most areas of Manhattan, you will have great difficulty finding a studio apartment for less than $1,300-$1,400 per month. In contrast, there are areas just outside Manhattan (within a 30-40 minute commute) where you can find a decent studio apartment to rent for $850-$1,000 per month. Determine What Size Apartment Fits Your Budget and What Amenities You Can Do Without - Squeezing into a smaller apartment than your ideal and a willingness to accept some commonly perceived flaws such as street noise or lack of view or natural light may save you some money. In addition, rents will vary with the type of building in which the apartment is located such as whether or not the building has a doorman or an elevator.
Methods of Searching - Fee v. No Fee Rentals If you can afford to pay a broker's fee, searching with a broker is highly recommended for convenience. Brokers can give you an overview of the market, guide you in your search, and facilitate the paperwork for you. Some landlords list apartment availabilities exclusively through brokers.
Brokers charge a commission for their services. In Manhattan, expect to pay between `12%-15% of the year's rent. That means if your rent is $1,000 a month, the broker's fee works out to $1,000 x 12 x 15%, or $1,800. Fees outside of Manhattan are usually less, ranging from one month's rent to 12% of the year's rent. The fee is payable only at the time of lease signing. OCHA maintains a list of real estate brokers, many of whom will give a discount on their fees to CU students and affiliates. The larger firms have Web sites where you can search their listings in advance of contacting them. You can also check their most updated listings in the classified ads in The Village Voice, The New York Times and LOOT. Don't forget to ask if a student or Columbia corporate discount is available.
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Apartment Visit Tips

Apartment rental is big business, and showing the property to potential new residents is part of the bottom line. Rental agents are trained to promote the best aspects of the place you might soon be living, but you don't want to take their word for everything.
"Different strokes for different folks" definitely applies to apartment living. The features that actually determine whether you enjoy living someplace will be particular to you, so there's no way they can be included on a generic tour. To make sure you get the information you really need for an informed decision, you have to stay focused.
Your Rental Representative and YouRental representatives are trained to be friendly and informative. They have a list of features to promote and a list of answers prepared for common questions. There is no reason to assume a rental agent will be dishonest about anything, but their job is to sell you on the place, which means they will spend most of the time talking.
It's important to concentrate on what you see, not on what they say. A good rental agent will give you some quiet time to look around. If they don't, simply ask them to stop talking for a few minutes. It's a reasonable request.
Security concerns may require the person to stay with you during your visit, but there's no reason you have to talk to them the entire time -- it's an apartment visit, not a first date! Make sure you look at every feature of the apartment and the surrounding property, not just the parts they are pointing out.
Divide and Conquer If possible, take a friend with you. An extra set of eyes can be helpful for spotting important details. If necessary, your friend can engage the rental agent with some elaborate questions that will give you time to look around without distraction.
Taking NotesA list of priorities is the best way to stay organized. Get a notebook and write down your questions in advance -- the ones you want to ask as well as the ones you want to answer for yourself by looking around. Write down the results for each place you visit, since different properties may run together after a couple of visits, especially if you are visiting more than one property owned by the same company.
Along with your notebook and writing instruments, consider packing a camera, a tape measure, something to drink, and maybe even a small flashlight. If you take a friend along, make sure they have read your list, or give them a copy to make their own notes on.
The Main EventThe most important part of the visit is the apartment itself. Make sure you get plenty of time to look around. Even if it means sitting in the middle of the living room floor for ten or fifteen minutes, you want to get a feel for the place.
Try lying down on the bedroom floor in the spot where your bed might go. Imagine getting up in the morning and going through your daily routine. Check the water pressure, and look at the quality of the appliances. Take note of any pros and cons you notice about the layout or the size of the rooms.
Take your time -- if you are going to commit to at least a year of living there, the rental agent can give you half an hour or so to check the place out.
Touring the AmenitiesMost properties put a great deal of emphasis on the tour of amenities. Whether you plan to use all these facilities or not, the chance to see them is extremely valuable because it gives you an opportunity to observe people already living there.
Chances are, you'll spend at least part of the visit riding around the property in a golf cart. Don't be lulled into distraction by the rental agent's chatter - this is your best chance to get a feel for the "neighborhood."
What kinds of cars are in the parking lot, and how well are they maintained? Do the people walking around look happy? Do residents smile or wave when they see the golf cart go by? You can't please all the people all the time, but hopefully most of the residents on the property will look happy to be there.
Online ResearchIf you see people making faces when you pass by in the golf cart or otherwise get the impression there are disgruntled tenants, it might be an important warning sign. You might want to follow up your visit with some online research.
Many consumer websites allow residents to review the conditions of rental properties. Look for specific complaints about poor maintenance, security issues, or slow response to repair requests, as any of these could affect your quality of life if you moved in.
Just Have FunIt's important to have the right attitude when visiting potential apartments. If you view it as a horrible chore, it will be tough to get a good impression anywhere. Don't plan more than a few visits in a day -- more than that would lead to rapid burn-out, and it may take a few days to find the right fit.
Try to schedule visits at times that won't force you to sit in traffic getting stressed out. See the visit as a chance to play detective, and remember that a few days of hard work now could lead to several years of living happily in your new apartment.

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Leases

Leases are important for clarification of the responsibilities of the landlord and tenant. If you don't have a lease, the landlord could ask you to leave or raise your rent on short notice. In addition, factors, such as when your rent is due, if pets are allowed and who is responsible for maintenance need to be clear. The type of lease you will be asked to sign can vary with the type of apartment and building in which it is located. OCHA has samples of different leases. Any changes to the standard lease are usually included in a separate lease rider. Leases are for one or two years and generally begin on the 1st or the 15th of the month.
Typically, the apartment will be unfurnished and will be located in a rental building that is owned by the landlord. Some apartments may be protected by rent regulations. A rent-regulated apartment is subject to limits on the amount that owners can raise the rent for vacant apartments and renewals of existing leases. Tenants in rent-regulated apartments have the right to renew the lease provided they’re in compliance with all lease terms and conditions. Rent-regulated tenants have the right to sublease the apartment with the landlord's permission.

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Turn Your Balcony Into a Retreat

Turn Your Balcony Into a RetreatA crispy fern flanked by a flapping towel and a bike with two flat tires—sound like a balcony near you? As close as your own French doors, perhaps?If what you really want is a cozy place to barbecue, or an enchanted and enchanting retreat—no problem. With just the tiniest bit of attention and effort, you can transform even a swath of bleak and cheerless concrete into almost anything.First, figure out what kind of weather your balcony has to withstand, said Elizabeth Blome of Open Window Designs in Houston. A northern exposure will limit plant choices to shade-tolerant varieties, while a west-facing patio will be hard on decorative objects like wreaths and topiaries, which can crack and fade in the hot summer sun.As for that bike—you get to keep it."Our feeling is that if you want something, we can make it work," Blome said. "So if the bike is a part of your life, it stays—behind a screen or a lattice or a nice big plant."Decide how you want to use the space, said Helene Schultz, an interior decorator who recently tackled a patio in New York and a balcony in the Virgin Islands. And have fun. Whether you're making a private retreat, an outdoor dining room or dividing a large area into several rooms, an outdoor space should spring from your imagination.Jimenez built an Asian garden for moments of reflection."In some ways, the space in a balcony or patio is a bonus, it's unexpected," Schultz said. "You can go with something as simple as plants and a few chairs, or you can unleash your fantasies and be bolder or more playful than you might inside the home."Bold and playful were Edward Jimenez' bywords when designing the spacious balcony of his Los Angeles condo over the course of six years. At 11-feet wide and 25-feet long, Jimenez had a space large enough to be daunting. He solved the problem by dividing it into rooms—one for dining, one for a garden, another as a sitting room."I wanted it to look like it had always been there, that it was a place that had been cared for by a family over a period of years," said Jimenez, a hair stylist and makeup artist with a large celebrity clientele. He started with a tree and several plants, then added a seating area. When something didn't work, he gave it away and tried again."I went through so much furniture," Jimenez said, and laughed. "My family loves it—I keep giving them stuff that doesn't fit or doesn't work."For apartments in New Jersey go to Raritan Crossing. They are pet friendly apartments and New Brunswick NJ apartments. Rentals near Metropark and apartments in Middlesex county. For apartments in central NJ this is the place for you with Apartments in Middlesex County NJ. Raritan Crossing has apartments near metropark, apartments near Rutgers and apartments near Robert Wood Johnson.

Reducing Energy Costs

You don't have to buy a lot of expensive gadgets or live without luxury to conserve energy. Environmentally friendly activity is just a matter of habit. By using only what you need, when you need it, you can help the environment and save on your power bill at the same time.
Being conscientiousEver fall asleep with the TV on? Ever wake up and realize you left the computer on all night after checking your email the night before? Thinking consciously about the resources you use can be an important first step in saving power -- and money.
Most home electronics and appliances have energy-saving features. Televisions have timers that can be set to shut off after a few hours. If you like to fall asleep with the TV on, use the timer and don't waste electricity all night. All modern computers come with power saving functions, but these have to be set by the individual user to be effective. Make sure you understand how these features work and set them up to go along with your own habits.
Home theater sound systems allow networking of stereo, TV, DVD and even computer accessories, often through the same remote control. The downside of this convenience is that even the unused items are often switched on at all times. Be sure to turn off the CD player when you're watching a movie, and power down the whole system when you're going out.
Light up your life the smart wayMake sure your lights have energy-efficient compact fluorescent bulbs installed, which will have a positive impact on the environment and your power bill. These bulbs are more expensive initially but last much longer than older, less efficient bulbs, saving you the cost and time of frequent replacements.
Reconsidering how much light is needed, and where and when you need it, can also make a big difference in power use. Turn the lights off when you leave the room or home and only use a minimum of low watt lights overnight. Better yet, look for motion activated night lights or low output LED lights for nighttime navigation.
Batteries are piling up in landfills from coast to coast. For your emergency lighting needs, consider a shake-up flashlight, which provides LED light through a magnetic induction process powered by shaking the light for a few seconds before each use -- no batteries required! Good old-fashioned candles can be a nice way to set the mood on a stormy night when the power goes out, but be careful -- make sure they won't set off your smoke alarms, which run on batteries and work even during a blackout!
Keeping cool and keeping warm In the summer and winter, keep heat and air at reasonable temperatures. Close doors to unused rooms and leave the vents shut to increase air flow to busier parts of the home. Ceiling fans can be used year round to help air circulation.
Take a few minutes to set up a programmable thermostat that will shut off the air conditioning when you're gone during the day.
As the seasons change, keep an eye on the temperature. Take advantage of mild days to turn off the air conditioning and open up the windows, even if you can only do it for the morning. A little effort goes a long way!
While there are expensive energy conserving gizmos on the market, cutting electricity cost isn't about making a special shopping trip or ordering products from TV. A little extra attention to everyday habits is all you need!
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Don't Overpay For Rent

On my post warning against overpaying on rent, James poses this question:
Is it better to rent an apartment or buy a manufactured home? I found a good location where they are selling a 2 bedroom manufactured home for $170K. The mortgage calculator says, for a no downpayment for 30 years at 6.12% interest, I pay $1,032.39 monthly.
Today, Im renting a studio at $1,000 a month. So I thought would the mobile home be better? I mean in 3 years, I would have paid out 36,000 (more if the rent goes up). That money goes away. But I buy that mobile home, I can sell it in 3 years for a super discounted deal, say, 80,000. I would not be only be able to regain the 36,000 but also would have made money.
First, I think you’re getting too exotic by thinking about saving money by purchasing a mobile home and reselling it, recouping some of the equity and thus paying out less in rent. It’s certainly a very interesting decision and analysis but ultimately I think your assumptions are going to be your undoing on this one.
If all your assumptions go through, that you can purchase the mobile home and resell it at the stated prices, it sounds like your plan will work. Your assumptions, however, are very difficult to support and I am clearly not qualified to give you an advice on that. All I know is that there is a social stigma associated with mobile homes and I have no experience selling one, either first hand or anecdotally. What I do know is that you’ll have to put that mobile home somewhere and generally mobile home parks charge some sort of land usage fee that you didn’t figure into your calculation. You also have closing costs and selling costs that you haven’t factored into your equation which may make the decision less financially attractive. Then again, your extra low price of $80k may have accounted for all of this in its fudge factor, who knows.
All that being said, I go back to the beginning where I said this is probably making it too complicated and potentially putting yourself in a bad spot, especially if you experience difficulty selling it and have on your hands a depreciating asset that you can’t sell. Would I do this? Probably not. I don’t like committing myself to debt larger than my fist unless it’s a pretty sure thing and I don’t think your trade off necessarily is. It’s definitely an interesting question though.
Anyone else care to weigh in?


I’ve always seen renting as “temporary” and buy as permanent. So the two years I spent renting in the Baltimore, MD area, I hardly ever took any time to decorate the place and I tried to pay as little as possible. From my point of view, because it was temporary, not actually mine, and something whose cost I wanted to reduce as little as possible, it made no sense for me to pay more than the average rent in the area or even spend money on decorating it. Now, I didn’t pick the absolute cheapest rent (though I had a roommate and am fairly certain I was paying a pretty good price for rent) but I was pretty close to it and I did very little upkeep outside of vacuuming. As the saying goes, who washes a rental car?
Now, I don’t entirely agree with the idea that renting is “throwing your money away,” as many homebuying proponents espouse, but I do see it merely as an expense that should be reduced to as little as reasonably possible. The reason why it’s not throwing your money away is because the housing market has always been difficult to predict, though the trends were always pointing up in the long run as they are even now, and because a house isn’t always a winning proposition even if the value goes up. You’re throwing a lot of money away in interest payments (a small part of which you get back), you’re throwing a lot of money away in maintenance, and you’re throwing a lot of money away in taxes, insurance, etc - all of which are not concerns (though they’re integrated into your rent price) for a renter (I bring these up in the Devil’s Advocate post Rent Forever, Don’t Buy A Home).
So, when friends of mine talk about how they can get this awesome apartment with all these incredible amenities for the low low price of something like a thousand dollars per person, I wonder to myself why they would pay so much for rent when cheaper options, though with fewer amenities, exist. Granted, part of this is in perception, some people like to rent in nicer areas with great amenities and are willing to pay that price, I certainly would pay a higher price for a nicer area (from a crime, convenience perspective, etc. within reason); but sometimes the numbers are exorbitant - I know people paying at least twice what I paid in rent!
Are you the stingy renter like me? What are your thoughts? Or are you on the other side, willing to spend the money for a really nice place, please share your perspective!
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Shoestring DecoratingSense of adventure

Shoestring DecoratingSense of adventure, planning are keys to a great lookIf a new sofa isn't in the budget, transform your old couch with a luxurious slipcover. (Photo Courtesy of Sure Fit Inc.)Good taste is expensive, right? Whether you're a first-time apartment-renter fresh out of college, newly single, a single parent on a budget or you're simply not Rockefeller, trying to make your home resemble the pages of House Beautiful can be a sobering experience. Window-shopping often is discouraging, as you realize that walking into a showroom and saying "I'll take that" is an impossible dream. Being on a budget doesn't mean that you have to resort to orange crates, cinder blocks and plastic dorm-room cubes, however. Indeed, there are bargains to be found, and here's where the fun begins. All it takes is a sense of adventure – and a little advance planning.First, take a look at your living space, whether it's a cookie-cutter apartment, condominium or a single-family home. What is your favorite part of your home? (Saying that you don't have a favorite part is not an answer.) Is it a large window that lets in the morning light? A window seat? A garden window? Some built-in shelves? You'll want to capitalize on this and make it the focal point of that room.
If it's the shelves, for example, you'll want to be on the look-out for some interesting objects d'art. And they don't have to cost you an arm and a leg, either. By the same token, if you've been hanging on to something that you don't like simply because you felt you didn't have any other options due to budgetary constraints, get rid of it if you can. If you can't, can you hide it? Enhance it? How about selling it and using the money toward what you really want?Create a dream book Next, head to your library or book store. If your library has a used magazine sale (many libraries take magazine donations and then sell them for $.10 or $.25, for example), buy yourself a stack of decorating publications. Peruse them, and clip pictures of rooms and design elements that you like. Do you see some paint in a magazine photograph that you like? Clip that, too. Compile everything in one place, whether it's a photo album or photo box, and write the name of each room on the appropriate clippings. When you're on the hunt for items for a particular room in your home, bring the clippings with you.Before you begin purchasing anything, think about your intended purpose for each room in your home. Do you want your home to be a soothing contrast to your stressful job? Muted colors and neutrals will be your best bet. Or do you want to feel energized by your surroundings? Then you might want to consider brighter and bolder colors. Do your tastes lean toward the casual side or the more formal side? That might depend on the surroundings in which you work (for example, if you work in a rigid, ultra-corporate environment, you might wish to keep your home surroundings deliberately more casual), your personality, whether or not you have children and whether or not you entertain frequently.For apartments in New Jersey go to Raritan Crossing. They are pet friendly apartments and New Brunswick NJ apartments. Rentals near Metropark and apartments in Middlesex county. For apartments in central NJ this is the place for you with Apartments in Middlesex County NJ. Raritan Crossing has apartments near metropark, apartments near Rutgers and apartments near Robert Wood Johnson.

Shoestring DecoratingSense of adventure

Shoestring DecoratingSense of adventure, planning are keys to a great lookIf a new sofa isn't in the budget, transform your old couch with a luxurious slipcover. (Photo Courtesy of Sure Fit Inc.)Good taste is expensive, right? Whether you're a first-time apartment-renter fresh out of college, newly single, a single parent on a budget or you're simply not Rockefeller, trying to make your home resemble the pages of House Beautiful can be a sobering experience. Window-shopping often is discouraging, as you realize that walking into a showroom and saying "I'll take that" is an impossible dream. Being on a budget doesn't mean that you have to resort to orange crates, cinder blocks and plastic dorm-room cubes, however. Indeed, there are bargains to be found, and here's where the fun begins. All it takes is a sense of adventure – and a little advance planning.First, take a look at your living space, whether it's a cookie-cutter apartment, condominium or a single-family home. What is your favorite part of your home? (Saying that you don't have a favorite part is not an answer.) Is it a large window that lets in the morning light? A window seat? A garden window? Some built-in shelves? You'll want to capitalize on this and make it the focal point of that room.
If it's the shelves, for example, you'll want to be on the look-out for some interesting objects d'art. And they don't have to cost you an arm and a leg, either. By the same token, if you've been hanging on to something that you don't like simply because you felt you didn't have any other options due to budgetary constraints, get rid of it if you can. If you can't, can you hide it? Enhance it? How about selling it and using the money toward what you really want?Create a dream book Next, head to your library or book store. If your library has a used magazine sale (many libraries take magazine donations and then sell them for $.10 or $.25, for example), buy yourself a stack of decorating publications. Peruse them, and clip pictures of rooms and design elements that you like. Do you see some paint in a magazine photograph that you like? Clip that, too. Compile everything in one place, whether it's a photo album or photo box, and write the name of each room on the appropriate clippings. When you're on the hunt for items for a particular room in your home, bring the clippings with you.Before you begin purchasing anything, think about your intended purpose for each room in your home. Do you want your home to be a soothing contrast to your stressful job? Muted colors and neutrals will be your best bet. Or do you want to feel energized by your surroundings? Then you might want to consider brighter and bolder colors. Do your tastes lean toward the casual side or the more formal side? That might depend on the surroundings in which you work (for example, if you work in a rigid, ultra-corporate environment, you might wish to keep your home surroundings deliberately more casual), your personality, whether or not you have children and whether or not you entertain frequently.For apartments in New Jersey go to Raritan Crossing. They are pet friendly apartments and New Brunswick NJ apartments. Rentals near Metropark and apartments in Middlesex county. For apartments in central NJ this is the place for you with Apartments in Middlesex County NJ. Raritan Crossing has apartments near metropark, apartments near Rutgers and apartments near Robert Wood Johnson.

Tenant Screening

Why is the occupant show such a important tool for anybody who deal in the hire possessions? Tenant screening can also save you the lot of cash, as well as heartache. A reputable background ensure company that can screen all your tenants for you, as well as the results can assist you to make a decision whether or not you desire to rent to tenants who have applied.
What does the good tenant make sure consist of? You must ask for, with receive the following information from any of the potential tenant - addresses as well as telephone numbers of their current as well as prior landlords,
their communal Security number, the current address as well as telephone number, their cause for moving, their position of employment, the bank reference, as well as at least two nature references.
Also, have the individual sign the statement agreeing to the criminal background verify, reference as well as credit check. All of this data can be collected on the comprehensive application form that you will provide. Make definite you include all the questions on this application, which you deem essential to check out the potential tenants. This is very necessary so that company you select to do a tenant screening that can have enough information to do through investigation.
Ideally, all information on the application must be verified, and where a tenant screening can also save you the lot of time. If for a few reason company doing screening cannot by verify some of the facts, this must send up the red flag as far as tenant is worried. You would be astonished at how often populace will get the creative with the rental application! Obviously, they also have no idea how through the background verify can be, and that their dishonesty will be found out.
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Make Your Rental "your home"

Make Your Rental "your home"

Just because it's a rental doesn't mean it can't be home. Add your own stamp to each and every room giving it personality. Bring out those family photos, use that rug you made in the third grade as a seat cushion, or hang your Grandmothers costume jewelry from your chandelier. Use creativity, and learn to use your home to express yourself

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Even if the apartment

Even if the apartment you are living in is the one of your dreams, you may at some point need to break the lease. Job promotions, caring for ill parents and getting married are all things that may cause you to need an "early out" from your rental. The conditions that guide any penalties for breaking the lease are normally outlined in the document itself.
Here are some things you can do to make this an easier situation for both you and your landlord:
If you suspect you may need to end a lease early, see if the landlord would be willing to set you up with a shorter-term rental or a month-to-month lease. You can also look into an early release clause and see if that might be a solution.Let your landlord know as soon as possible about the need to move and see if they are willing to discuss options with you. Remember, the goal isn't just to get out of the lease, but to avoid leaving on bad terms or getting a mark on your credit history.Breaking a lease puts your landlord in a bad position. Try to be conscious of what you can do to make it easier. Subletting the property may be an option, but make sure you understand your responsibilities in this situation before agreeing to it. For apartments in New Jersey go to Raritan Crossing. They are pet friendly apartments and New Brunswick NJ apartments. Rentals near Metropark and apartments in Middlesex county. For apartments in central NJ this is the place for you with Apartments in Middlesex County NJ. Raritan Crossing has apartments near metropark, apartments near Rutgers and apartments near Robert Wood Johnson

Escape Routes

Escape Routes

Finally one of the most important things to do is to prepare an escape plan. Apartments are fairly small when compared to large office buildings, schools, or houses, but it is still imperative that you memorize the floorplan of the unit.

When you move into your apartment home, take some time to become familiar with the exit paths. One exit would be the main door, but some apartments also have fire exits next to windows or balconies.

You should also become familiar with the whole apartment building and take note of emergency stairwells or fire escapes. Many apartment complexes conduct emergency fire drills, so be sure you attend those sessions.

For more information on fire safety and prevention, go to the Dallas Fire-Rescue and view their comprehensive guide.

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Your Neighborhood Dumpsters or Curbside

As you take a walk around your neighborhood, keep your eyes open for furniture pieces left on the curb. The end of the month is a good time, since that's when people are clearing out their homes to get ready to move. "One man's trash is another man's treasure," as the saying goes. I found a great wrought iron table and bench on the curb once--both at the same house. I sanded off the rust and painted the pieces with rust-proof finishing paint. The table is on my patio and the bench at the end of my bed.

For apartments in New Jersey go to Raritan Crossing. They are pet friendly apartments and New Brunswick NJ apartments. Rentals near Metropark and apartments in Middlesex county. For apartments in central NJ this is the place for you with Apartments in Middlesex County NJ. Raritan Crossing has apartments near metropark, apartments near Rutgers and apartments near Robert Wood Johnson.

It has been said that moving is one of life's most stressful adventure, and that only child birth and death bring more pain. But if you take a few minutes to read this, your next move may not be stressful at all. All that is needed to have a stress free move to plan and follow the plan.
The first thing to do is make a list of everything that you are taking. With this list break it off in two. First list items in your apartment that you are not going to use in the near future. Like, if it is summer you will not be using your winter blankets. So this item can be listed on the side of items not using. Once the list is complied, all items that you are not going to use, start looking around for boxes so you can pack these items. Since these are out of season items label the boxes and put them out of the way. Now the hard part is that you can not open these boxes, note that there is nothing in these boxes that you need. But going back and forth in these boxes you are just creating double work for yourself.
The nex thing to do is to make a list of all your bills. If any of these bills that are going to be moving with you create a change of address list. This is a list of all bills, credit cards, magazines, and any other bills that need to know where you are going. If you don't change your address you are going to be in trouble with the Visa people.
You have to decide if you are going to move on your own or if you want someone to move for you. To decide this you must know your budget and how much money you can spend. Each method have their advantages and disadvantages and only you can decide. Things to take in consideration. 1)the size of your apartment 2)your physcial shape. if you out of shape moving boxes up and down the steps is not healthy. 3)your budget 4)the season.if it is winter time moving it yourself may not be wise 5)the area you are moving to. if you moving out of state the drive may not be worth it to move yourself.
Before you get to the new apartment you need to have the phone on, the lights on, the water running and the cable installed. You can get the names of these companies from a phone book or a local real estate or rental office.
The weeks before the move start to pack towels, sheets, and other linens. It may not be glamourous but wash the sheet on your bed to avoid going into the boxes. Start packing any glassware and dishes that you don't use. Even better, start packing all your dishes and use paper and plastic, it is only for a short while.
Remember to label the boxes correct. Place what in the box. Just don't label the box kitchen, but label it glasses, and pots. This way you know exactly what you are unpacking.
Two weeks before the move reconfirm with people that their services are going to be connected as requested. Remeber to get the name of the person you spoke with in case their is a problem.
With the move coming up, check you list and make sure you are right on point. If not re-track and get on point fast. The day of the move pray everything goes right.
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Hosting an Apartment Warming Party Congratulations!

Hosting an Apartment Warming Party Congratulations!
You’ve just moved into your new apartment and you’re starting to sink your feet in. O.K., maybe your boxes aren’t unpacked and you have yet to put out the welcome mat, but give yourself a break! Moving can be a stressful yet adventurous task. To relieve some of the tension and allow your legs to breathe from carrying boxes up flights of steps, consider throwing an apartment warming party for you and some friends.
There are numerous reasons for apartment warming parties. First and foremost, to show off your new pad! Invite friends over to see how you just bought the apartment of your dreams and maybe bounce some ideas off them as to how you will fill those spaces. Secondly, you can use the party to get to know those who will be living around you. If you plan on staying here for a while, it might be a good idea to invest some time in getting to know those down the hall. Your living situation will be a whole lot better if you can walk the halls and greet your neighbors by name. Thirdly, it can be a short break from the whole process. Packing your things, moving them, loading them into the new place and unpacking them is a long and strenuous process. Give yourself a short breather. Set out some finger foods, a couple of drinks and surround yourself with friends. That will help things go a lot easier.
The first part of the party will be sending some invitations out a week and a half to two weeks prior. If you are inviting the people next door, you don’t even need to mail the invites. You can simply knock on doors and hand them invitations or slip them under the door. If you are inviting friends from out-of-town that would be here for a couple days for the event, give them a couple pieces of information about the town so they don’t feel like complete strangers. List some good places to eat, cheap places to stay and where all the nightlife lives. No matter who you are inviting, it is important that you give good directions to your new place. If they need to buzz in, give them that number and an alternative phone number they can call if you’re not there. Be specific!
Next on your agenda should be the shopping. You’ll want to provide your guests with some food and drink for the gala affair, so make a list. Get cans or small glass bottles of beverages so unused portions can be shoved into the fridge instead of going to waste. For food, consider getting finger foods that are easy to make. Get a good variety of cold and hot so you don’t have to do much cooking beforehand. Don’t forget plates, cups and utensils. Make sure to buy more than you have people invited. They’ll be sure to leave a drink somewhere and forget it.
You’ll want to assemble a small team to pull off the party. Guests will be arriving and leaving off and on. If you plan on giving tours to your guests, be sure to gather a couple friends to either play host while you’re showing guests around, or to act as tour guides. You can even allow guests to tour at their own bidding. Depending on how many people are slated to show up, you may want help cooking your delectable snacks earlier in the morning. Finally, you should have a go-to friend in case you run out of ice or food that can make a jaunt to the store to pick up more.

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Finding an Apartment

The quest to find an apartment can be both fun and stressful. There are so many exciting possibilities and as many potential obstacles. This article will guide you through the process, so you can find an apartment with confidence.
First, you must decide how long you will live in this space, which will dictate what kind of apartment to look for. Most leases require at least one year's commitment, so if this is too long for you, consider a sublet or a month-to-month apartment.
For apartments in New Jersey go to Raritan Crossing. They are pet friendly apartments and New Brunswick NJ apartments. Rentals near Metropark and apartments in Middlesex county. For apartments in central NJ this is the place for you with Apartments in Middlesex County NJ. Raritan Crossing has apartments near metropark, apartments near Rutgers and apartments near Robert Wood Johnson

Financial Requirements and What to Bring on Your Apartment Search

Financial Requirements and What to Bring on Your Apartment Search

In order to rent an apartment, you will be asked to complete an application, by your prospective landlord. You may also be required to pay between $50-$200 for credit reports and/or application fees. Landlords want to see evidence of steady income and good credit.
Financial Requirements - Most landlords require that the prospective tenant have an income equal to 40-45 times the monthly rent in annual salary (combined income is used for roommates). You and your roommate will need to have all of your income verification paperwork readily available upon application for an apartment. If you are a full time student or do not meet all the financial requirements, most landlords will require a lease co-signer or guarantor. A guarantor is an individual, typically a family member, who lives in the U.S., preferably in New York, New Jersey, or Connecticut. Guarantors are asked to disclose detailed financial information and have a credit report run on them as part of the approval process. The guarantor's income needs to be at least 75 times the monthly rent and they will also need to submit the paperwork listed below.
Funds - When the landlord approves your apartment application, be prepared to pay the first month's rent and the security deposit upon lease signing. Most landlords require that these funds be paid in the form of separate certified checks or money orders. Landlords will not accept personal checks or credit cards. An additional certified check or money order will be required at the time of lease signing to pay the broker's fee, if applicable. Necessary Documents - Bring the following items with you when you start looking for apartments: Letter from your current employer stating your salary or from a CPA if you are a freelance worker or a business owner First two pages of last year's tax return Most recent bank statement(s), bank account numbers and credit card numbers Most recent pay stub(s) Names, addresses and phone numbers of previous landlords Names, addresses and phone numbers of personal and business references Photo I.D. such as driver's license or passport

For apartments in New Jersey go to Raritan Crossing. They are pet friendly apartments and New Brunswick NJ apartments. Rentals near Metropark and apartments in Middlesex county. For apartments in central NJ this is the place for you with Apartments in Middlesex County NJ. Raritan Crossing has apartments near metropark, apartments near Rutgers and apartments near Robert Wood Johnson.

How to pick art to fit the room.

How to pick art to fit the room.
Size and color are the two major criteria for selecting art to fit its surroundings. For any particular space, art that is too large will overwhelm, and art that is too small will be lost and look out of proportion. The bolder the art, the more room it needs to breathe. For apartments in New Jersey go to Raritan Crossing. They are pet friendly apartments and New Brunswick NJ apartments. Rentals near Metropark and apartments in Middlesex county. For apartments in central NJ this is the place for you with Apartments in Middlesex County NJ. Raritan Crossing has apartments near metropark, apartments near Rutgers and apartments near Robert Wood Johnson

Last Word

Last Word Just some other things to think about…
If the landlord decides to sell the house (which is actually a pretty common event), by law he must give you a certain amount of time to vacate the property. Oftentimes, the new owners will want you to continue to rent from them. Check your local laws to see how much time you are allotted to vacate. In some areas, you have until your lease is up.
If you decide to install anything (such as a new light fixture, a ceiling fan, satellite dish, etc), you must get your landlord’s permission first. Often enough, the landlord might mind, but sometimes they don’t want their property altered in any way.
You might want to consider renter’s insurance. If something happens to the house, you want your stuff to be insured. The landlord should already have his own homeowners insurance protecting the property as well. You should ask him.
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Decorate Your Studio Apartment on a Budget

Decorate Your Studio Apartment on a Budget!By Kathy Wilson Decorating a studio can be a challenge. You are dealing with small spaces and little storage, and you are usually dealing with a small budget as well!
Here are some great low cost tips for maximizing that small living space while minimizing the damage to your wallet!
*Create dual use furniture. A twin bed pushed against a wall can easily double as a sofa during the day. Add bolster pillows for armrests, and a row of throw pillows along the back to lean against. A small dining table can double as a work desk, and short bookshelves can make wonderful end tables!
*Pick up colorful wire baskets or wastebaskets from the dollar shop and screw them to the bathroom wall or hang them over the shower rod with a shower ring for storing all your makeup, sundries, and personal items.
*Pick up inexpensive door mirrors from the discount store, and mount them on walls or doors facing the living area. It will visually expand the space. Try making them part of a wall arrangement with framed prints to help them blend into your décor.
*Keep clutter under wraps! Hang fabric over cluttered bookshelves or entertainment centers, keep the toaster under the counter, and have a basket or drawer to store those little items you use every day.
*Let's face it, no decorating trick is ever going to make a studio seem like a mansion…so why not just work with it? Add a cozy feeling with bright colors, and your place will at once feel homey and interesting. Add bright throw pillows, cushions for the dining chairs, and a collection of framed art on the walls.
*Small throw rugs can help define different areas in a small space. If you use several rugs in the room, have them match in color to create flow and expand the space.
*Don't have any art for your new place? Tight budgets call for creative thinking. Pick up 12 matching frames at the dollar shop, and frame anything from CD covers, to cut outs from magazines or catalogs to brightly colored fabric. Arrange in rows gallery style on your focal wall, and you have art! No matter what you frame, placing it in matching frames in an organized grouping gives it importance.
For apartments in New Jersey go to Raritan Crossing. They are pet friendly apartments and New Brunswick NJ apartments. Rentals near Metropark and apartments in Middlesex county. For apartments in central NJ this is the place for you with Apartments in Middlesex County NJ. Raritan Crossing has apartments near metropark, apartments near Rutgers and apartments near Robert Wood Johnson

Decorating Baby's Room

Decorating Baby's Room
Decorating The NurseryIn recent years as the economy has boomed, a certain sector of the retail industry has enjoyed a remarkable explosion: products for babies and kids. In days of old, the prevailing attitude most people had toward clothing and furniture for their kids was one of economy–after all, kids outgrow everything in a just a couple of years. But nowadays it's more common for parents to go all out for everything. All the very latest fashions for their little one, right down to the label on their jeans, and the indulgence doesn't stop with outfits. The home decorating sector for kids has had a boom as well. For many families, hand-me-downs are a thing of the past.There's now an absolutely vast selection of not just the usual wallpaper and bed linens aimed at the little people, but serious furniture–club chairs and ottomans, sofas–scaled down to kid sizes; things that they used to have to grow into are now being made just for them. Some say it's great: kids are finally being catered to on their own terms, even in the furniture world. Some others say the trend only encourages people to spend more money on things they don't need.
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UNDERSTANDING YOUR LEASE BEFORE YOU MOVE IN

UNDERSTANDING YOUR LEASE BEFORE YOU MOVE IN
Month-to-Month Agreement: This agreement is for an indefinite period of time, with rent payable monthly. A month-to-month agreement continues until either the landlord or tenant gives proper notice to end it.
Long-Term Lease: During the term of the lease, the rent cannot be raised or the rules changed unless both landlord and tenant agree. Leases for more than one year are exempt from the Landlord-Tenant Act, but only if the tenant’s attorney has approved such an exemption. A lease must be in writing to be valid.
Understand The Rules: Before making a decision on what apartment to rent, consider your needs. Make a checklist of what your place must have and those qualities that are not so important. Contact your Better Business Bureau for a reliability report on the property management company or apartment owners you are planning to use.
Once you’ve found your ideal apartment, make sure you understand your responsibilities as an apartment tenant. Carefully read your lease and be aware of the legal terms and conditions before signing the contract.
Your Lease Should Contain:
How all maintenance and repair concerns are handled. The conditions under which your rent can be increased during that term. Who is responsible for the repair of all appliances, fixtures and furnishings that come with the apartment. How many people may occupy the apartment. Whether pets are allowed. The conditions of your security deposit, including what it covers and conditions for a refund. Security deposits are usually required and offset the landlord’s cost of repairing any property damage. For apartments in New Jersey go to Raritan Crossing. They are pet friendly apartments and New Brunswick NJ apartments. Rentals near Metropark and apartments in Middlesex county. For apartments in central NJ this is the place for you with Apartments in Middlesex County NJ. Raritan Crossing has apartments near metropark, apartments near Rutgers and apartments near Robert Wood Johnson

Renters Insurance

Renters Insurance FAQAnswers to Frequently Asked QuestionsBy Jennifer Lai, About.com
Apartments Insurance What is renters insurance?For those who rent, renters insurance covers damage to or loss of your personal property. Whether you rent from a house owner, a property manager, or a university (as a student living in a dorm), consider purchasing renters insurance. Why do I need renters insurance?Landlords insure the physical apartment building against damage from occurrences such as fire, hail, and vandalism. But their insurance policy does not cover your belongings, so don't expect the landlord to owe you payment should anything happen. Another reason to get renters insurance is to protect yourself against any accidents caused by other tenants.
Renters insurance can also protect against liability lawsuits or medical bills of guests injured in your apartment.
Some landlords require you to purchase renters insurance. If so, this would be stipulated in your lease or lease riders. What kinds of loss of or damage to property does renters insurance cover?There are many types of loss that insurance will cover, plus additional options. It depends on the institution. In addition to cost, this can help you choose from where you want to get rental insurance. For example, some of the better known places do not cover damage from floods, unless you pay an extra charge. If you live in an area prone to floods, it makes better sense to search for options where flood protection is included. How does renters insurance work when you need to replace your property?There are two kinds of payouts: actual cash value and replacement cost coverage.
Actual Cash Value. This type of coverage pays an amount equal to the current cost to replace your items minus the depreciated value.
Replacement Cost Coverage. This type of coverage pays you the amount it would cost to replace your lost or damaged property. You only get the money if you replace the items. There is also usually a limit on how much money you receive, and the premiums tend to be higher.
Deductibles. This is the amount you pay for the lost or damaged goods, before the insurance company would begin paying. Typically, the higher the deductible, the cheaper your policy will cost. What other protection can I get from renters insurance?Liability protection. Some renters insurance protects you against a lawsuit if someone or their property is damaged on your apartment's premises. For apartments in New Jersey go to Raritan Crossing. They are pet friendly apartments and New Brunswick NJ apartments. Rentals near Metropark and apartments in Middlesex county. For apartments in central NJ this is the place for you with Apartments in Middlesex County NJ. Raritan Crossing has apartments near metropark, apartments near Rutgers and apartments near Robert Wood Johnson

Apartment Listings

Apartment Listings
How to Spot Suspicious Apartment ListingsBy Jennifer Lai, About.com
Apartments Locator Reading apartment listings is like navigating a jungle. There are many sneaky elements to look out for. Though some degree of trust is required when reading an apartment listing, it's wise--as a savvy adventurous renter--to be on the look out for the following suspicious ads. The glitzy apartment listing
These ads are filled with overly colorful descriptions that are designed to entice you. "Most beautiful!" "Stunning!" "Best location ever!" Oftentimes, they're posted by apartment brokers whose main goal is to lure you into their office so they can show you their inventory. Clearly not every single apartment in their portfolio is going to be the best, biggest and nicest. This doesn't mean you should avoid them. They may have good apartments. But be on guard for overselling. Always cut through their pitch and see the apartments for what they really are.
The ad that spins round and round
Some ads will take the attributes of an okay apartment and spin them around to make it sound nicer or more romantic. For example, a small studio becomes a cozy apartment. A neighborhood with lots of traffic noise and sirens becomes a bustling or exciting area. These ads take the defects of an apartment and attempt to romanticize them. If you like smaller apartments or a busy location, that's fine. But remember that you, the renter, decides what's cozy, not the ad.
The barely there apartment listing
These ads say very little. Maybe just the number of bedrooms, the rent and a vague description. It's really difficult to discern what these mean. They could mean the apartment is really bad and nothing good could be said about it. Or it's a fake ad. Or the person is lazy or inexperienced at writing listings. Because of their ambiguity, don't waste your time and look at these only as a last resort.
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Decorating your Home to Sell

The process of showing and selling your home can go much more smoothly if you get everything ready. Find out how to get your home ready to impress buyers for the best offers and the top price for your home. Preparing your home for sale is a bit like designing a stage for a play. Everything is in just the right place, perfectly arranged, and comfortably set.
There are television shows like Designed to Sell focused exclusively on, not decorating a home, but getting an otherwise drab, cluttered, boring house ready for a quick and profitable sale. Homes that are properly prepared sell faster and at a higher price than similar, unprepared homes.
The professional organizaton, Staged Homes trains real estate professionals and other interested individuals in the art of "Home Staging" and issues a certificate as an "Accredited Staging Professional ™."
Just what do "Home Stagers" do and how can their theory help you sell your home?
Get out the cleaning supplies, boxes, and get ready to sell your home fast! You'll love how easy it is to transform a languishing, slow-moving home into a quick sale with just a bit of elbow grease and an eye for beauty.

For apartments in New Jersey go to Raritan Crossing. They are pet friendly apartments and New Brunswick NJ apartments. Rentals near Metropark and apartments in Middlesex county. For apartments in central NJ this is the place for you with Apartments in Middlesex County NJ. Raritan Crossing has apartments near metropark, apartments near Rutgers and apartments near Robert Wood Johnson

Make your design creative

Make your design creative

Nothing screams 'boring décor' more than furniture that's flush against the walls. Even small spaces can use some angles for excitement. If you put a three-panel screen on an angle in a corner or angle a square table at the end of your sofa, you'll break up the monotony of typical apartment furnishings.You may not be in a mortgaged home, but that doesn't mean you can't inject trends into your decor. Keep it inexpensive, with a leopard-print pillow or a trickling, soothing, tabletop fountain.Also, don't fall into the trap of avoiding furniture you really want just because you're renting."It's silly to wait till tomorrow. You need something that's you, something that's going to anchor your décor," Meaney says. "Invest in one good thing that means something to you, something that will be a cornerstone in your future home."Short on space? Store your letters attractively with baskets attached to the wall. Photo courtesy of Pier 1 ImportsHe says you should postpone buying a suite, or set, of furniture just to make a room seem more finished."I'd spend my money on one really good piece that would be a focal point rather than trying to buy a whole set," he advises. "It's a common mistake thinking that if you have a real small apartment, you need to buy lots of small furniture. It ends up being very tchotchke. If you have a focal point and get rid of the clutter, that's what's going to set the tone for the home."Ward cautions apartment dwellers to avoid getting just one of anything."When you walk into a room that has pairs of things, it feels great. If there's one of everything, you're always looking around (subconsciously) for the other thing. So have a pair of urns, a pair of lamps," she says. "Better to have a sofa and two small occasional chairs than a sofa and a loveseat or one huge club chair."

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Herb Gardening in Your Apartment

Herb Gardening in Your Apartment
If you’re looking for a way to feel more at home in your new apartment, we have a solution for you. It’s economical, challenging (but not too difficult) and it allows you to explore your creative side. Herb gardening, either from a window box planter, on your kitchen counter or in an outdoor space is a great way to personalize your home with the look and smell of these useful plants. Some of the staff at Apartments.com find that herb gardening can save money, since buying new herbs from the store can really add up. Plus you’ll be getting fresher versions that can even encourage you to stay in and prepare your own meals more often. So grab a shovel and start planting today!Here’s how to get started:
Herbs for planting are purchased in small plastic containers. A nice collection that can be grown in the same container includes basil, oregano, thyme, rosemary and chives. You can drop this combination into a stew, soup or salsa for an amazing flavor burst. Starter kits are also available at most garden centers.
Choosing your container is no time to be boring! They come in a wide variety of sizes and shapes. Be resourceful and use an old mug or teapot. Be unconventional—herb gardens have even been grown in old hiking boots and shoes. Just be sure you can punch drainage holes into the base.Choose a potting soil mix (don’t use garden soil!) to ensure the healthiness of your plants. Your local garden center should have pre-mixed bags.
Most herbs require at least four hours of sunlight every day, so find a place in your apartment where your plants can flourish. If your apartment is especially dark, use a fluorescent light.
You can choose as many types of herbs as you like; just be sure that you have adequate planting room. You’ll be planting the seeds 2-3 inches apart. The best way to choose which herbs to plant is by seeing what dishes they compliment.
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Tips for Moving to a New Apartment

Tips for Moving to a New Apartment
Make sure you reward helpful friends with pizza and/or beverages for their efforts. Tip your movers accordingly--they work hard. (Just make sure that any damaged items are accounted for and returned at no cost to you.) Clean your old place as well as or better than when you moved in - you will likely get a nice and much-needed deposit in return for your efforts, not to mention a good future reference. Keep a number of rolls of tape, trash bags, and markers around. VERY IMPORTANT SAFETY ISSUE: drive by your potential new place at night, especially on the weekends, to see if the atmosphere is suitable to your lifestyle. (Is it too noisy? too much traffic? too quiet?) Make sure the last tenant of your new place does not still have the keys to your doors. If you have the opportunity to meet anyone who lives in your potential new residence, ask them what they think, but remember that is just their opinion. Always be aware of all aspects of your new manager-tennant contract, and know your rights--and don't abuse them! Your new landlord/manager will let you know what utility options are available to you. make sure you have given your previous apt. mgr. the required notice regarding your anticipated move--but only after you have found your new place If you're not sure where to move, ask friends, fellow employees, local real estate agencies, and of course your local Sunday paper. Get your utilities disconnected at your older home and connected at your new home - Gas, Electricity, Water, Internet, Cable, Telephone. Remember to keep track of any deposits you pay so that you can ensure that they are reimbursed at the time of your next move. Update your address information with any relevant institutions - Cellphone, Insurance, Loans, Financial (Credit Cards, Banks), Government (USPS address change, Car Registration, Drivers license), Employer When looking for a new apartment, be sure to look at the apartment and not a model. This way you can point out issues to the manager that should be addressed prior to your move-in date.
For apartments in New Jersey go to Raritan Crossing. They are pet friendly apartments and New Brunswick NJ apartments. Rentals near Metropark and apartments in Middlesex county. For apartments in central NJ this is the place for you.

Before you sign the lease…

Before you sign the lease…
If anything was amiss during the walkthrough or not up to standards, negotiate a lower price to make up for these problems. You can also use yourself as a selling point to knock $50-$100 off the rent. Many apartment owners are willing to accept a little less rent for a responsible, mature tenant who will pay rent on time and keep the place well-maintained. When is the rent due and what is the policy on late rent? What types of provisions are in the lease for excessive noise or overnight guests? Read every line and be sure you understand what your part of the deal is. Are you required to hold renter’s insurance? If so, how much will a policy cost? Is the neighborhood safe? Walk the neighborhood at night (with a friend) and observe your surroundings. Also check online to see if crime reports are available for your neighborhood. When can you move in your belongings? Check the move in/move out dates printed on the lease. If the 1st of the month falls on a Wednesday, can you move in the previous weekend or will you have to do a weekday move? Get a copy of the lease and keep it in a safe place
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Don't shove everything against the walls.

Don't shove everything against the walls.
The number one mistake apartment dwellers (and many homeowners) make is not spending enough time on furniture arrangement, says Mark McCauley, ASID, a Chicago-area designer. "People use the old standby of pushing the sofa against one wall with a chair on each end — all pushed against the wall because they think it provides more room." Instead, he says, it looks cramped and unwelcoming.
Better, he suggests, is to use furnishings to create a vertical line, not unlike the skyline of a city, and pull pieces away from the wall. "This creates movement in the space and makes it feel bigger," he says. "Consider the sofa angled off of a corner with a taller plant behind it. Also angling the chairs will help." The idea is to create a welcoming seating/living arrangement, not a wall display.
For apartments in New Jersey go to Raritan Crossing. They are pet friendly apartments and New Brunswick NJ apartments. Rentals near Metropark and apartments in Middlesex county. For apartments in central NJ this is the place for you.

Apartment or Rental Home Walk Through

Apartment or Rental Home Walk Through
What To Look For Before You Sign A Lease
When walking through the home or apartment you are thinking of renting or leasing, whether it’s brand new or used, here are a few things to check before signing a lease or rental agreement. Drywall, paint, baseboard, light fixtures, carpet, windows, roof tiles, doors, tile, granite, tubs, and appliances. A typical property management company will have a checklist with them during your move-in walk through, to note any preexisting conditions of the unit or home. When you decide to move from this rental, they will do a move-out walk through, comparing the condition of the property at move-out to what it was at move-in. It is in your best interest to have a move-in checklist of your own, to make sure the property manager notes all preexisting conditions, so you won’t have to pay for conditions you didn’t cause when it is time to move.
Drywall -Make sure you check this well. Look for marks made by door knobs and baseboard installation. Look also for holes.
Paint -When checking the paint look for uneven coloring and chips. Make sure the baseboard does not have any wall paint on it as well as wood handrails, kitchen counter tops, tubs, cabinets…etc. Look for any stains in the paint, especially on ceilings – this can be an indication of water damage. Baseboard -Baseboard is located at the bottom on the walls and surface of the floors. Check for damage such as scrapes or cuts in the baseboard (these are often caused during carpet installation). Also check for any places where baseboard is missing.
Light Fixture Locations -This is more common than one may realize and, unfortunately, is not caught on many walk-thrus. Wherever there is a light fixture, check to make sure cabinets and doors do not hit it when opening. Check to make sure all light fixtures are in working order.
Carpet -When checking the carpet look for stains, burns or holes. Check for stains caused by excessive amounts of traffic.
Roof Tiles or Shingles -Check for broken, missing or discolored tiles. This too is a commonly overlooked area.
Windows -For your benefit, make sure they are sealed well. Check for cracks and moisture between panels and by sliders, all windows should be tempered. Look for any stains on the window sills. This may be an indication that the windows were not sealed correctly, and, in cold weather, the windows may “sweat” on the inside.
Doors -All doors should be painted on all sides and there should be no scrapes or holes in them. Open and close doors to check for correct adjustment and alignment. Make sure all door knobs and locks are working correctly.
Tile -Check for uneven, loose, chipped or cracked tiles especially in corners where it can easily be disguised. Make sure grout is not cracked or missing.
Granite -When checking granite, new or used, check for cracks or chips; look at the granite in good lighting for faded shiney spots.
Tubs -Look for cracks and make sure it is sealed correctly. If a jet tub, make sure it works. Look for mold along the top edge of the tub or shower. This may be an indication of poor cleaning habits or poor ventilation.
Appliances -Examine the appliances and make sure they work, turn them on. The same thing goes for the gas, electricity, plumbing, garbage disposal and water. With the water, run 2-3 different faucets at a time and see if the pipes make any noise. These should all be tested.
We suggest you bring a walk-thru punch list with you when you walk through the home or apartment. This way you won’t forget any of these important items and this will let your property manager know that you are not only educated, but serious about the quality of your living environment. When it comes time for your move-out walk through, you won’t be paying for conditions you didn’t cause.

For apartments in New Jersey go to Raritan Crossing. They are pet friendly apartments and New Brunswick NJ apartments. Rentals near Metropark and apartments in Middlesex county. For apartments in central NJ this is the place for you.

From Dorm Room to Apartment

From Dorm Room to Apartment Save money in the long run by equipping your dorm room with investment pieces that will transition into your first apartment.
By Kaelin Tripp Splurge for the FutureAre you a "plan ahead" kind of person? Then think through your decorating choices for a dorm room.
Instead of choosing the kooky "Sponge Bob" comforter and a cheap canvas chair, select a couple of investment pieces for your room.
Dark woods and neutral chairs pair well with a photo-montage wall in brown, white, and green. At the desk, a simple leather chair is sturdy enough to transition easily into your first real place after graduation. Side Table with StyleFor your dorm room, pass on the funky milk crate nightstand. Go with something more stylish! Ours is a small round table in a dark wood stain. The style is simple enough to be a great addition to your first apartment.
For your apartment: This handy piece can find a home in nearly any room. Try it next to a reading chair, sofa, or guest bed.
Classy SeatingSchools rarely provide classy furnishings, so spruce up the standard college desk with a sleek leather dining chair. This chair will provide comfy seating for studying and guests who lounge around your room.
For your apartment: Your leather chair will look great in a living room, entry, or dining room area. Hide-Away StorageFor this dorm room, our "coffee table" is a pair of handy storage cubes that hide bedding, extra books, or CDs.
For your apartment: These units could transition into handy nightstands or side tables.
For apartments in New Jersey go to Raritan Crossing. They are pet friendly apartments and New Brunswick NJ apartments. Rentals near Metropark and apartments in Middlesex county. For apartments in central NJ this is the place for you.

Rethink Your Rental

Rethink Your Rental
Make a rental space your own on a modest budget by creatively updating your current wares and adding a few new items to the bunch. Check our tips and inspiration below.
Living Room
Think of your apartment as your own -- ask your landlord for permission to paint (offer to repaint when you leave), hang plenty of art, and install draperies. If wall color is off-limits, rethink the furnishings. Use large pieces, even in small spaces, to create interest in place of paint. Trying changing the shape of the room by placing a room divider in a corner -- it allows the eye to flow evenly across the room rather than interrupt it with abrupt corners.
Apple green is stylish without being too trendy. Pair it with a neutral brown sofa -- this custom design boasts clean lines and didn't cost much more than a retail sofa. A $99 IKEA coffee table makes a modern statement (and adds precious storage) in the small space.
It's the little things that make a white-box rental a home, such as adding graphic accent pillows for the couch and a rug to cover up standard apartment flooring. Even something as simple as placing a table lamp on top of a stack of books sends the message that the space belongs to you, not your landlord. If your living room must double as a home office, don't let the work space overpower the room. Opt for spacious filing cabinets topped with an inexpensive sheet of melamine for lots of storage space and minimal impact on the rest of the room. The lamp is a $10.95 thrift store find with a new shade.
Looking for another deal? These floor-to-ceiling drapery panels are sewn from silk shantung found online for only $11 a yard.
Keep office supplies from taking over your work area by storing them on a vintage tray. Adding personal trinkets affords you a moment's distraction while checking e-mail or paying bills.
For apartments in New Jersey go to Raritan Crossing. They are pet friendly apartments and New Brunswick NJ apartments. Rentals near Metropark and apartments in Middlesex county. For apartments in central NJ this is the place for you.

Decorate Walls Without Painting

Decorate Walls Without Painting - 5 Simple Wall Decorating Tips
Since painting unique wall images may not be an option for some renters, we pulled together 5 wall decorating ideas to help you decorate your cwalls for both your stylish senses and their personalized space!
1. Removable Wall Hooks - 3m makes wonderful wall hooks and other removable wall hanging products that are easily adhered to the walls without leaving behind residue when removed. With the variety of products they offer you can literally find whatever type of hook or gadget you need to make anything hang from a wall. These can be purchased are your local home improvement or hardware store.
2. Framed Posters & Art - When displayed properly, framed family photos can create warmth and most likely are the subconscious objects that make you feel at home in your space. Children love the familiar faces of their favorite book and movie characters. Using posters are a great way to bring these characters to life. The posters by themselves may be suitable, but to please the aesthetic senses, don't skimp on having the wall art framed. If you are interested in keeping costs down you may want to frame it yourself. When tastes change you can reuse the frame and change out the poster. For an added punch add colored mat board to the poster print. If you still need to select wall decor art try our Art & Poster shop.
3. Display Shelves - Thinking tall will also fill your wall space with visual appeal while creating extra storage. Carefully and thoughtfully arrange the objects you choose to place on each shelf, being sure to over crowd each space. Think of the eye flowing over the shelf in an "S" pattern by varying the heights and spaces.
4. Fabric & Starch Wallpapering - This removable technique gives decorating versatility! You can create textures and cover up the ugliest walls. Check out these do-it-yourself instructions for wallpapering with fabric.
5. Folding Screens - If you just don't want to hang anything on your walls, try adding texture by using folding screens. The come in almost every style from Shoji Screens for Asian design to chrome for ultra modern. These are wonderful for studio apartments as they create additional areas and promote privacy.

For apartments in New Jersey go to Raritan Crossing. They are pet friendly apartments and New Brunswick NJ apartments. Rentals near Metropark and apartments in Middlesex county. For apartments in central NJ this is the place for you.