1. Excess Furniture

In a smaller apartment, every square foot counts. Take a look at your furniture and consider what you really need. That bulky armchair you never sit in or that oversized coffee table taking up precious floor space? They might be better off finding a new home.

Opt for multi-functional pieces like a sofa bed or nesting tables that can serve more than one purpose and save some space.

2. Unused Kitchen Gadgets

Do you really need that avocado slicer or the fancy smoothie maker that’s been collecting dust in your cupboard? Downsizing your kitchen gadgets can free up valuable storage space and make meal prep a breeze. Stick to the essentials like a good quality knife set, cutting board, and pots and pans that you actually use on a regular basis.

3. Clothes You Never Wear

We’re all guilty of holding onto clothes that we think we might wear someday, but let’s face it – if you haven’t worn it in the past year, chances are you won’t wear it in your new apartment either.

Be ruthless and declutter your wardrobe, keeping only the clothes that you love and actually wear. Donate or sell the rest to make room for new favorites. Need some help decluttering? Here are some useful decluttering tips!

4. Unused Electronics

Old smartphones, outdated laptops, and miscellaneous chargers and cables – sound familiar? Electronic clutter can pile up quickly, taking up valuable space and causing unnecessary stress. Take stock of your electronics and get rid of anything you no longer use or need. If it’s still in good condition, consider selling or recycling it responsibly.

5. Paper Clutter

Receipts, bills, old magazines – paper clutter can quickly overrun your space if left unchecked. Invest in a filing system or go digital with online banking and document storage to keep your paperwork organized and clutter-free. Sort through your paper pile regularly and recycle anything you no longer need to maintain a tidy apartment.

By letting go of these five things, you’ll not only create a more spacious and clutter-free apartment, but you’ll also simplify your life and reduce stress. Downsizing to an apartment can be a liberating experience, allowing you to focus on what truly brings you joy and contentment in your new home. So, take a deep breath, embrace the change, and enjoy the freedom of living with less!

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1. More Availability

One big advantage of searching for an apartment in the winter is that there tends to be more availability. Since fewer people move during the colder months, landlords and property managers might have more vacant units to choose from.

This means you could have a wider selection of apartments to consider, giving you a better chance of finding one that fits your needs and preferences.

2. Lower Rent Prices

With decreased demand during the winter months, landlords may offer lower rent prices or special discounts to attract tenants.

This can potentially save you money on your monthly rent or even lead to additional perks such as waived application fees or complimentary amenities. So, if you’re looking to snag a great deal, winter could be the perfect time to do so.

3. Easier Scheduling

Since there are fewer people looking to rent apartments in the winter, you might find it easier to schedule viewings and appointments with landlords or property managers.

You won’t have to worry as much about competing with other potential renters or rushing to make decisions before someone else snatches up the unit you’re interested in.

4. Accurate Impressions

Viewing apartments in the winter can give you a more accurate impression of what it would be like to live there year-round. You’ll get to experience firsthand how well the heating system works, whether there are any drafty areas, and how the property handles snow removal and maintenance.

These factors are important considerations when choosing a place to call home, and winter provides the perfect opportunity to assess them.

5. Avoid the Summer Rush

By securing your apartment in the winter, you’ll be ahead of the game when the busy summer rental season rolls around. You won’t have to deal with the stress and competition that often comes with searching for housing during peak moving times. Instead, you can sit back and relax knowing that you’ve already found your ideal living space.

So, don’t let the cold weather discourage you from your apartment-hunting journey. Embrace the chill and take advantage of the many benefits that winter has to offer for renters. Happy apartment hunting!

The post Why Winter Is A Great Time For Apartment Hunting appeared first on Morgenson Realty Company Inc.

Before sealing the deal, be smart and follow these tips to make sure you are ready.

Visit the Property and Inspect Any Damages

It’s important to look at the apartment yourself and record any damages or issues that you’ll see so you could inquire about it and be on the same page with the landlord. Inspect all the appliances, and roam around the inside and outside of the apartment.

You should also check the wirings and lightings of the apartment, as well as the water pressure of the faucets, and all the locks. Should you encounter any problem, don’t forget to take note, and discuss it with your landlord.

Discuss about Maintenance and Customization

Before you settle in and make your apartment your new home, make sure to discuss what alterations you can make to the place. Is it okay to paint the walls? Or install stuff on the walls? What customizations can you do? And if something goes wrong with the apartment, what should you do? Understanding the maintenance process before you move in is important for you to know if the building does have a maintenance staff or not.

Check Apartment Reviews and Tenant Feedbacks

Reviews and feedback tell you how satisfied the previous tenants are with how well they have been treated and what they can say about the property. Try to read the most recent reviews, and check for any problems they encountered with the property and how well the landlord handled these issues. This way you will have a proper expectation of what’s going to happen after you move in.

Read and Understand the Apartment Lease

Before you sign anything, make sure you’ve read it carefully and don’t sign if there’s anything you don’t understand. Find out if everything that you and the landlord agreed upon is included in the lease. Check for guests and pet policy if you think you will need that in the future. And don’t forget to discuss and negotiate with your landlord should you see any issues with the lease.

Know the Overall Cost and Rent

Does you rent cover your electricity, water, heat? How about internet, trash, maintenance? Confirm what is really included in the rent so you’ll know what else you must pay for and budget accordingly. Other repairs and costs that you should be looking at are snow removal, lawn care, or maybe even parking fees. Check to see if you will be able to afford all this when you move in and have some extra for emergencies.

After making sure you have gone through all these steps, you are finally ready to sign the apartment lease and start moving!

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Here are some tips to help you socialize and start making new friends in your new home…

Be Friendly and Introduce Yourself to Neighbors

Being polite can really go a long way, and a simple hello with a smile can do wonders. Whenever you are passing by, or grabbing your mail, or even enjoying the wonderful weather outside, try to say hi and make a conversation.

Just make sure you are not interrupting anyone, and you are respecting their personal space.

Spend Time in Community Areas

If your apartment community has a dedicated common space, then take advantage of it to get to know your neighbors. Bring a cup of coffee, or two, and share it with a possible friend. Or use the community fitness center to bond with neighbors who share your workout routine. Who knows? Maybe those who are also spending time in these communal spaces are also looking for a new friend, like you.

If you have a pet, it’s also the perfect opportunity to meet fellow pet lovers while you walk them around. Pets are lovely conversations starters, and you might just find someone who shares the same pet with you.

Attend Resident Events

Another great way to meet your neighbors and make new friends is by attending community resident events. It’s an amazing opportunity to share interests and hobbies with those who live near you. Aside from making new bonds, you can also witness collaborations from different local businesses in the area.

Host An Apartment-Warming Party

If you have the time and resources, why not host a gathering at your new apartment? It’s a fun and simple way to show your new neighbors that you want to meet them and make new friends. Ask them to come over for some outdoor barbeque weekend in your balcony or a mini tea party. You can post the invitation in the community announcement page or just choose who you’d like to invite, it’s totally up to you!

By following these tips, making new friends in your new neighborhood will be easier than ever. Start making your new place your new home.

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From managing your thermostat to purchasing rugs for cold floors, here are tips on heating your apartment without running up the bill.

1. Clean Your Air Filters

Throughout the year the filters in your heating system can get clogged with dust and other household grime. This forces the heat setting to work harder to push warm air through the filter. Keeping your filters clean will allow the heating unit to run more efficiently, thus saving you money. Don’t know where to locate your filters or how to clean them? Have no fear! We’ve created a video tutorial to help. “How to clean the filters of your heating and cooling unit.”

2. Add Rugs

If you have tile, hardwood, or vinyl floors in your apartment consider stocking up on a few rugs. Additional rugs can really help if your carpet is a bit on the thin side, as well. 

Something you may not have considered is stitch count. The stitch count of the rug you’re purchasing is more important than just the overall thickness. Stitch count tends to insulate the best.

Adding a pad underneathe your rug can double the insulation you receive too, plus it makes for a much more cushioned experience. 

3. Avoid Space Heaters

Sometimes the only way to beat the cold is to turn up the heat. Unfortunately, space heaters are typically pretty inefficient heating sources since they require a ton of electricity to heat a small amount of square footage.

4. Manage Your Thermostat

Do not turn off your heat when you leave your home. It will cost twice as much and take twice as long to get warm if you wait until you get home to crank up the dial. Leaving your heater running a few degrees lower than you are comfortable when you are gone for the day is the most cost effective way to manage your apartments temperature. Once you return home, bump it up to the temp your prefer.

5. Bundle Up

Winter isn’t the best time to live in your shorts and tshirt, at least not here in Wisconsin. If that’s your go-to outfit for comfort at home, you may have to pay a little more to keep the heat higher. We suggest creating a happy medium. Turn the thermostat up to a comfortable setting and wear cozier pj’s with thick socks or slippers. Winter is the perfect time to bundle up in a soft blanket or oversized robe, as well.

You can also keep yourself toasty at night by fluffing up your bedding with thicker duvet covers or comforters.

As the days get shorter and the cold sets in, biting the bullet and paying the extra heating costs can seem like a good idea. We’re glad you stopped by to research better, more cost-effective ways to save money and live comfortably throughout our brutal Wisconsin winters.

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Here are our top 5 tips for getting packages delivered to your apartment…

Community Storage or Mail Room

If you live in an apartment community that offers a package delivery storage room, use it! This is a space where we keep your packages until you arrive home to collect them. Delivery drivers typically have access to this room through management.

It’s extremely convenient and makes for a seemless package delivery option!

Delivery Alerts

The fastest way to track your package in real time, is by signing up for alerts. Most shipping companies offer text or email alerts letting you know where your package is or when it’s being delivered. This option will allow you to atleast know the date and time frame of delivery, so you may be able to be home.

During checkout, Amazon offers a scheduled day for delivery. If you know you’ll be home a certain day of the week, try getting your packages all delivered on that scheduled date.

“Hold for Pick-up” Option

This is available via USPS and FedEx. Simply have the item held at your local post office or nearest FedEx location where you can pick it up within the specified amount of time.

Pick Another Location

Direct your deliveries somewhere else where you know they’ll be secure until you pick them up.

Friends with any neighbors? Perhaps they’re home and available when you’re not? If you’re comfortable with your coworkers knowing what you’re receiving, consider having your packages shipped to your office. What are friends and family for, if not to help when in a bind, right? If you’ve got family or friends who live nearby, try asking them if it’s okay to send your deliveries to their door, at least for the holiday season.

Ship to the Retail Location

When checking out, request the item(s) be shipped to the retailer’s nearest store for pick-up. Most retailers do not charge a fee for shipping to one of their locations. Plus, they usually hold your package for 3-5 days until you’re able to make it into the store.

We hope you enjoy each and every present that arrives at your door this holiday season. Happy shopping!

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Flameless Candles

These are a simple and safe way to introduce both October and November holiday’s to the outside of your apartment. Perfect for standing solo in lanterns, candle holders, and pumpkins alike. Avoiding any concerns with actual flame, candle wax damage or staining, and exterior sprinkler heads is just an added bonus. In addition, these always look gorgeous inside window sills all throughout December too.

Pumpkins

Nothing says autumn is finally here quite like pumpkins. If you’re looking for a cost effective way to spice up your patio or balcony, pumpkins are a must have décor item. Try buying pumpkins of all shapes and sizes, the uglier the better. Fill a bowl on your outdoor table with small pumpkins as a centerpiece. Toss in different colors like white with sage green, and a little orange. Pumpkins add versatility to your outdoor space, no matter which ones you choose. So have fun with it!

Apartment renter note – make sure you’re checking your pumpkins regularly, and dispose of any that start rotting.

Outdoor Pillows

Decorations are fun, but they’re even better when they’re functional. The chillier it gets, the more we all embrace fall as the season to start snuggling for warmth. Now is the time to whip out and layer cozy throw pillows.

Select traditional prints like dark red, mustard yellow, or plaid. For an intimate outdoor patio or balcony, choose different textures and add a few neutral tones to add more warmth. Since this space is an extension of your apartment home, the inside of your apartment will feel more comfy with this added view too.

Decorating your apartment can be a great mood-booster for yourself, and also for your neighbors. We hope you try out some of our outdoor fall decorating ideas and can’t wait to enjoy them with you while visiting our different Southeastern Wisconsin communities!

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Luckily, living at either our Hidden Ponds or Foxtail Meadows communities brings you an abundance of locations to wet your whistle. Whether you want a fancy cocktail or something more casual, there is definitely something for every taste!

Let the drinks and good times flow at any these happy hour recommendations in Pewaukee.

Curly’s Waterfront Sports Bar & Grill | Happy Hour Monday-Friday 3-6pm

There’s nothing like a good drink with an amazing view! Stop by Curly’s Waterfront Sports Bar & Grill to take in the beauty of Pewaukee on their wrap around deck. Can’t make it for happy hour? Curly’s is packed with amazing opportunities to have fun with family and friends. Between live music, bar games, and delicious food specials, there’s never a bad time to visit.

Thunder Bay Grille | Happy Hour Monday-Friday 3-6pm

Rose Sangria? Bourbon Smash? Some yummy cocktail with tasty rum and fruit puree? No matter your flavor or vibe, this place has your back. Specializing in hand crafted cocktails, local beer, and an incredible selection of wine, it can become a favorite spot after just your first visit. Thunder Bay is the perfect place for a nice meet-up with friends or for a professional dinner. If you visit on a Monday, you’ll also be able to take advantage of their half price wine bottles. Monday’s don’t have to be dreadful anymore! Thanks, Thunder Bay Grille!

Sunset Grill – Pewaukee Lake | Daily Specials

Day drinkers and night drinkers unite, in this recently updated hangout. Come by car or boat and you’ll be greeted by friendly staff ready to serve. Our Pewaukee apartment homes are comfy, but slipping away to the lake side and enjoying mouth watering deals all week long is an added perk to our locations. The drink menu is full of hometown favorites you’ll be sure to love, plus yummy breakfast cocktails served up every Saturday and Sunday between 8-11am.

After all this, if you’d prefer to keep happy hour just in your apartment at Hidden Ponds or Foxtail Meadows with their stunning views and convenient locations, we couldn’t blame you. Cheers!

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1. Skipping Cleaning

When heading to check a tenant out of their apartment – finding it in good, clean condition is a landlords dream. Usually, there is only 24 hours to turn an entire apartment before a new tenant is going to move in. Skipping this step is time consuming and landlords charge for cleaning by the time.

How can you avoid this issue? Make sure you leave enough time to clean thoroughly before your meeting to move out with your landlord. Most renters make the mistake of rushing at the last minute or assuming their apartment isn’t “that dirty”. If you’ve ever moved before, you already know that everything is A LOT dirtier than it seems on the surface.

Thankfully, our tenants never have to worry about what our standard of clean is or what we will be looking for during their move. 60 days prior to their move out date, we provide them a digital copy of a cleaning packet full of tips and tricks! The month of their big move, we leave them a printed paper copy to use as a checklist too. This packet is packed with beneficial information like what cleaning products work best, a room-by-room guide, and even the cost of simple things like a lightbulb replacement. If your landlord does not provide you with a similar move out packet, try requesting one prior to your scheduled move. You’ll be happy you did!

2. Damages

There are obvious forms of damage that are not debatable, right? Finding a large hole in a door or bleach stains on the carpet. Both are examples of damage that a tenant could be charged for, and those charges would be taken from their security deposit. Not-so-clear forms of damage may look more like a broken refrigerator drawer or busted blinds. The best way to avoid losing any money from your security deposit for damages would be to treat your apartment home well. Be mindful that the space and appliances are owned by someone else who has to maintain them over a reasonable amount of time.

If you aren’t sure who would be responsible in the event that damage occurs in your apartment, call your landlord and discuss those items. Oftentimes, renters mention they didn’t leave a scratch in a drawer or a scuff on the wall. Those are probably things a landlord would mark as normal wear and tear. Items like burnt out light bulbs however, would be something they charge to replace.

3. Missing Rent

The security deposit is not your first month’s rent or your last month’s rent. Renter’s are expected to pay their last month’s rent in full and their security deposit will be returned to them, minus any charges, once they move out. Most landlords follow state or federal requirements dictating the amount of time they have to return the security deposit balance. Make sure you know and provide a correct forwarding address to your landlord upon your move.

When it comes to maintaining your security deposit – preperation and dedication are key! Keeping your apartment in nice condition throughout your tenancy is crucial. Leaving enough time during your big move is super important too! We hope these 3 tips leave you feeling confident that you’ll avoid any concerns with your security deposit returns in the future.

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Storage Decor

The perfect piece of furniture for loft-styles and ranch floor plans alike is the coffee table with hidden storage. Round, square or even rectangular in shape, these gems are the best way to hide items you want close by but out of sight. Things like throw blankets, pillows, television remotes, gaming controllers, and more!

Storage ottomans are also great options for similar reasons. These can be used in place of a coffee table, side table, or at the end of your bed. We find residents love to utilize them in our spiral loft floor plans especially. Amazing space savers, plus they add a homey element to any room. Win win!

Mirrors

Using mirrors is another fantastic way to create faux space in an apartment. They give the illusion that the room is much bigger and brighter. Picking one the suits your vibe adds both function and a pop of personal decor to your walls.

Floating Furniture

Pick pieces that are a little higher off the ground and have open bottoms. The gap between the floor and furniture will make any room seem more spacious. Pair a light colored area rug to create perimeters that section off the space, as well. We highly suggest this combo to our renters in ranch layouts. Since the apartment home is already one level, breaking up the square footage into sections creates a more natural warm and inviting living space.

C-Tables

These space savers come in a range of different designs, patterns, and materials. You can even build your own – like seen here. Why are they so convenient? They can be tucked under a coffee table, hugging your arm rest, or as a dinner tray. They are the new and improved side table! Plus, they’re extremely light weight and can be moved around several times daily without being a nuisance.

Want more inspo? There are tons of resources for furniture inspiration to be found just a few clicks away on your smart phone or laptop. Search Pinterest or even hashtags on Instagram for versatile options to fit your apartment home. Be sure to check back here for more blogs on apartment decorating ideas and more!

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