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
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.
Monday, June 30, 2008
Monday, June 23, 2008
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.
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.
Wednesday, June 18, 2008
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.
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.
Tuesday, June 17, 2008
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.
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.
Thursday, June 12, 2008
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.
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.
Wednesday, June 4, 2008
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.
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.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)