Tag: tips

How one resident transformed their townhome for fall

Posted on by abenson

How one resident transformed their townhome for fall

Fall is here and with it comes cooler temperatures, cozy sweaters, and weekend excursions to the local pumpkin patch. But there is no better way to get in the mood for the season than to start decorating your home with fall foliage, acorns, plaid throw blankets, and colorful pillows. One resident from Maple Ridge Townhomes let us into their home to see how they were able to transform it for the season. . . and needless to say, we loved it.

Fall Inspired Coffee Station

This resident used small touches to give this space an autumn feel: wooden trivets, candy corn filled jars, and orange flowers for a pop of color. All white mugs and bowls were used, making it easy to change decorations between the seasons.

Fall Foliage

From kitchen pantries to entryways, this Maple Ridge Townhome had the perfect amount of fall foliage. For a low budget wreath, consider visiting the dollar store and picking up all the materials you need to make your own perfect fall wreath.

Pumpkins!

Pumpkins, pumpkins, and more pumpkins! Fall decor is never complete without a pumpkin or two. This resident had pumpkins and gourds strategically placed in all the major living areas including the kitchen, living room, and dining room.

Cozy Fireplace

While this fireplace doesn’t require any wood, this renter placed a decorative basket of birch sticks next to their fireplace to giving the area an extra touch while also making it more versatile for the coming winter season.

The perfect color scheme

This resident focused on mixing patterns and using hues such as oranges, browns, yellows, and reds to make this corner of the home extra cozy. Ledges and windowsills can be great spots to add color to your home and this renter did just that by placing a piece of wood with gourds on it and strategically placing some fall foliage. We love how they combined rustic and chic.

Awe-worthy kitchen

This resident filled in the empty space above her cabinets by using windows, letters, flowers, plants, pumpkins and jars to bring her kitchen to life.

Want to see more? Go on the virtual tour of this beautiful home by visiting the Maple Ridge Townhomes website./p>

10 tips for getting your security deposit back

Posted on by abenson

10 tips for getting your security deposit back

A security deposit is given to the company or landlord at the start of a new lease to make sure that the company can cover the costs in the event of a lease being broken or in case damage was done to the property. To get as much of your security deposit back as possible, start doing some of these things today.

1. Clean regularly and take care of appliances

Simple cleaning habits will pay off in the long run. Vacuum your carpet, clean your oven, remove scum build up from tiles and the shower tub, scrub the floors.

2. Be careful when moving items around your home as to not make large scratches or dents

Moving couches, dressers, cabinets, and tables can cause dents and scratches. While some normal wear and tear isn’t a big deal, consider using a dolly when moving the larger items.

3. If you have a pet and they make a mess, clean up after them as soon as possible

When your pet has an accident, be sure to clean it properly and quickly after it happens. If it soaks through the carpet and into the flooring beneath, the repair costs could take your entire deposit.

4. Use nails or monkey hooks

Instead of using large screws, use nails or monkey hooks. These will create smaller holes, making them easier to fill.

5. Avoid using  large wall stickers as they remove paint

6. Report any damages that occur during your lease

If any mistakes happen while living in your apartment or townhome, let your property management company know as soon as possible. If something needs to be fixed, fill out a maintenance request.

7. Don’t remove anything or replace hardware without permission

It is good habit to always check with your management company before making any drastic changes to your home.

8. Document what your apartment looked like before you moved in and after you moved out

Take pictures and/or videos of your apartment or town home before you move in and after you have moved everything out. It is best to document everything.

9. Fulfill your lease

If you don’t fulfill your lease, you will lose your security deposit and will have to pay rent until the unit is re-rented. Additionally, any incentives you received would have to be paid back.

10. Pay rent and utilities in full

If rent or utilities aren’t paid in full, the remaining balance gets taken out of your security deposit.

Bonus tip: Clean your apartment after you leave

After you have moved everything out of your home, dedicate a couple of hours to cleaning the whole place. The apartment or townhome should be close to the same shape it was in when you moved in. Usually management companies will provide you with a cleaning list making it easier for you to make sure you don’t miss anything.

Apartment security tips you should know about

Posted on by abenson

Apartment security tips you should know about

It may seem simple, but basic apartment security measures are often overlooked by renters. To feel safe and secure in your apartment or townhome, consider using some of these simple tactics as they may just prevent an intruder.  

Install an apartment security camera

Now a days there are plenty of security cameras that are wireless and connect to your mobile device, making it easy to keep a watch on your apartment or townhome. Some cameras notify you immediately when someone walks by or comes to your door. Before installing a security camera, check with your management company to see if any rules are in place that need to be followed.  

Always lock your windows and doors

Anytime you leave your apartment or townhome, make sure all your windows and doors are locked. Even if you are only going to be gone for a minute or two. If you have a sliding glass door, use a security bar to help provide further protection.  

Use a safe

To ensure your valuable belongings are protected, use a safe or lock box.  

Make your apartment appear occupied

Many intrusions happen in the middle of the day when people are at school or work. Make it appear that you are at home by leaving the radio playing or leaving a light on. This could run up your monthly utility cost, so consider using something that is battery operated or has a solar panel. If it looks like you are home, it may scare off any intruders.  

Meet your neighbors

Make friends with your neighbors. If they hear or see something while you aren’t home, they can let you and the police know.  

Be careful of what you share on social media

It is important to be careful of what you share on social media. Avoid posting images of your vacation while there. It could tip off an intruder that you aren’t home.

College Apartment Study Zone Tips

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Designing the right study space for your college apartment

The new school year is just around the corner. To keep you from getting stressed out about all the homework and tests, its important to have a place at your college apartment where you can get all your work done without distractions. We put together some tips to help put your college apartment study zone together so that you can start the year off on the right foot.  

Choose the space

When you are setting up your study zone, you want to pick a spot that will have minimal distractions, provides sufficient lighting, and isn’t an area that is used for social activities. If you are sharing an apartment with a roommate, consider creating your study area in your bedroom near a window so that you get natural light during the day.

Pick Furniture

When selecting furniture, think about what will work best for you. A desk doesn’t work for everyone, so if a bean bag chair, hammock, or exercise ball is your thing, go for it. Since you will be studying for long hours, find something to sit on that is comfortable but not so comfortable that you could fall asleep in it.  

Lighting is Important

Some nights you might be up late into the night, so it will be important to have a lamp that will provide ample light. During the day, try to use as much natural light as possible as it could boost your mood.  

Keep Your Space Organized

To stay focused and in the zone, you will want to keep your space organized and clean to keep your stress levels at a minimum. If there is clutter everywhere, your mind may start wandering elsewhere. Consider using floating shelves, organization trays, or drawers to organize your books, utensils, and assignments. Use a calendar or planner so that you can plan when you will start and finish your upcoming assignment.  Keep highlighters, pencils, and pens within an arm’s reach.  

Get Rid of Distractions

It’s fun to hang pictures of friends and family around your apartment but consider keeping them away from your study area as they could cause you to start reminiscing and losing your focus. Consider hanging a motivational quote or calendar instead. Find a place where you can keep your phone that is out of sight. If your phone is right next to you, it will be too tempting to scroll through Instagram or check that text about last Friday night.  

Personalize your Area

Ultimately, you should set your space up so that it works for you. Make your space a place where you feel calm and don’t get stressed about returning to. Add touches that make it an inviting area and help you feel your best.

Fun tip: According to a Huffington Post article, orange can help you concentrate. The color helps you focus, concentrate, and organize which makes it the perfect pop of color for your study space.
 

Looking for an apartment that is close to campus? Take a look out our apartments in Moorhead, Fargo/West Fargo, Jamestown, Mandan, Minot, Watford City, & Williston.

 

8 Tips for Living with a Dog in an Apartment

Posted on by abenson

8 Tips for Living with a Dog in an Apartment

Dogs bring joy and happiness to our lives, but when it comes to living in an apartment with them, things can get tricky. So, to make it easier on yourself and to keep your dog happy and healthy, follow some of these tips for living with a dog in an apartment.

1. Talk with your property management company

Most companies have rules that you need to follow when it comes to living with pets in your rental home. There are breed restrictions, weight limits, and fees that you should be aware of before deciding to live in an apartment with your pet.

2. Choose the right breed

Not all dogs are well suited to living in an apartment. While all dogs are fun and cute, some need more space to play or are more apt to bark. You don’t want your dog going stir crazy and destroying your entire apartment and you don’t want one that barks at every person that walks down the hallway. When choosing a pet, consider one that has a mellow and friendly personality.

3. Pay attention to your dog

To keep your dog from going stir crazy or destroying your apartment, pay attention to them. Give them the love they deserve. Bring them to one of the local dog parks or take them on daily walks to help them burn some energy.

4. Choose the apartment that fits your pet

If you already have a pet and are looking for a new home, choose an apartment that is more suitable to your animal. Consider a first floor apartment to make it easier for you to let your pet out for bathroom breaks and so that your pet doesn’t disturb those below you.

5. Train your pet

Training your dog is essential. If your dog is rambunctious and will destroy your apartment while you are away, consider crate training them. If you are having problems with when your dog needs to go to the bathroom, consider putting them on a bathroom schedule. If you pet ends up destroying apartment, it will result in hefty fees that you will be required to pay upon moving out.

6. Be aware of your neighbors

Be respectful and pick up after your dog right after they make a mess in common areas. Not everyone loves dogs, so keep your pet on a leash while in common areas. It is important to remember that this is your neighbor’s home as well.

7. Consider doggy daycare

If your dog is one that will bark while you are away at work or school, consider bringing them to a doggy daycare during the week. It will allow your pet to play and socialize with other dogs while also keeping your neighbors happy.

8. Keep your pet’s health up to date

Be sure your pet is up to date on all vaccines. If something happens that your dog bites someone, you will be required to show proof of vaccination. Overall, make sure you give your pet all the love they deserve! Train them, take care of them, and pay attention to them. Having a pet requires a little bit more planning, but if you follow some of these easy tips for living with a dog in an apartment, your pet can keep bringing joy and smiles to your life!