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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What are apartment amenities? 

Your monthly rent isn’t always a flat rate that only includes the apartment rental itself. It can also include certain utilities like water, sewer, trash, and recycling. Utilities are typically attached to a service provider. For example, the electricity bill would come from WE Energies, here in Wisconsin. Oftentimes, landlords will consider cable and internet as a utility, as well. Perhaps one of the communities you visited offered free WiFi, that would be an included utility.

Pools, community rooms, and even granite countertops fall in the amenities category. These are usually things that bring convenience or extra comfort to your living experience.

When touring an apartment, it’s important to discuss the rent, amenities included, and the utility costs with the property manager. Additionally, all of these should be listed clearly on your lease paperwork. So ask your landlord to point those out when signing your lease.

Community Amenities

Your lease may be a year long or you may stay in your new apartment for years to come. Here are some of the most popular apartment amenities to consider when searching for that perfect place to call home.

Parking and Storage

Street parking in Wisconsin is more than just inconvenient. No one wants to worry about leaving their car exposed to snow plows, being snowed in, or any other accidents. Thankfully, a ton of communities offer on-site parking, underground parking, or personal garages.

If you’re lucky, you’ll find an apartment that includes both parking and storage in the total rent price. Storage is essential in apartment living. Christmas trees, bicycles, and even seasonal clothing can all be securely reserved until you need them again. Double check if a storage unit is included during your next showing, you’ll be happy you did.

Fitness Centers

Say goodbye to gym memberships and fees! Finding a community that offers an on-site fitness center could be a great option to save money every month. Don’t forget to discuss when the fitness center is accessible and when it’s closed. If you tend to exercise late at night, this may not be as big of a win as it seems.

Online Tenant Portal

What is a tenant portal exactly? It’s a fast and secure way to pay rent online, view payment history, submit maintenance requests, and perform a number of other important renter services. These options are available to access on any smartphone, tablet, or PC. Renter’s are prioritizing the ease of using these tools and having an online tenant portal has become a must-have feature!

Other community amenities to consider are things like a playground, pool, community room, and pet-friendly outdoor spaces.

In-Unit Amenities

Appliances

Standard appliances found in every apartment would include a refrigerator and stove/oven. Surprisingly, those could be the only appliances included at certain communities. While touring apartments, don’t assume that what you see is what you get. Oftentimes, community rooms are decked out with stainless steel and granite, but the apartment rentals are not. Shocking, we know.

Think – convenience. Dishwashers, for instance, are extremely convenient, but it’s possible to get by without them. Garbage disposals, microwaves, and laundry could be of higher importance.

In-unit washer and dryer are considered essential to certain tenants. There are renters happy to share on-site laundry facilities, or even provide their own washer/dryer if there are available hookups for them. When deciding for yourself, consider the building size you would be sharing the laundry facilities with or if you’re okay going to a laundromat down the street.

Security

You don’t have to live in a high-rise to have security features available at your community. It’s often overlooked, but asking about features like locked entry with in-unit intercoms, security cameras, and FOB access are extremely important. These can all help keep you safe and even keep your packages safe.

Patio or Balcony

Outdoor space usually takes the form of a balcony or patio attached to your apartment. There’s value to these private spaces that go way beyond the square footage they bring. They are extensions of your home. Enjoy grilling, a potted garden, and a hot cup of joe at sunrise. Amazing views make these apartment add-ons even more delightful. There may be a cost to having a balcony with your apartment. However, in these socially isolated times, it may well be worth it.

In-unit amenities could also include things like a fireplace, stainless steel appliances, and granite countertops.

Every renter is different and sometimes, you can find everything you want, just not all within the same community. We’ve given you some examples of common amenities found nationwide. Consider what features fit your lifestyle the best and will ensure a living experience that is both convenient and comfortable.

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Studio Space

Fitting your entire life into 450 square feet could present some challenges. So it’s important to find a studio apartment with features that give you the experience of a larger floor plan. Spacious kitchens with full-size appliances allow you to cook, clean and dine without frustration.

Dishwashers keep your counter-top space clean, avoiding dirty dishes sitting out and making a small space seem even more crowded. Tons of cabinets and drawers help you to stay organized and keep clutter from view. While an over-the-range microwave gives you more room for food prep or decorating. Speaking of range, we can all agree that tiny stoves or ovens are silly, right? Efficiency does not always mean the loss of functionality. Full-size stoves only, please!

So we’ve covered the cook and clean portions, what about the dining option? The idea of eating, sleeping and relaxing in one singular space can be down right discouraging. Enter, the breakfast bar! A large breakfast bar is the perfect place for enjoying meals, entertaining guests or even keeping a work space. All without losing precious square footage. If the studio you’re considering does not offer a breakfast bar, you should look at other options. Crumbs in your bed that is also considered your couch, that’s also your office, will only make you dream of the day your lease is over.

Practical Perks

Amenities are a priority. Parking, storage, and recreation are all important things to keep in mind while apartment hunting. Bonuses like washer and dryer being on-site, having an underground parking space and fitness center access are at the top of the list too. Overall, amenities seem to be more and more influential for the studio renter specifically.

Dealing with that singular space can include the joys of redecorating the same day you moved in, or the frustration of realizing you can’t fit everything you’d hoped. Storage is vital with small space living. To keep things neat, opt for a community that allows you store those collectibles and extras near, but outside of your apartment.

Add to your living area with a large patio or balcony and create a secondary nook to enjoy outside of your living/bedroom. Potted plants, cafe dining sets, and outdoor lighting can create a peaceful, fresh extension to enjoy alone or with guests all year long!

Floor Plan/Layout

When someone says studio apartment, the first thought that comes to mind is space or the lack of it. Creating the illusion of more space is key for any studio layout, and easier than you may think. Using the right furniture and decor to section off or sometimes open up your combined living and bedroom, can make your studio feel much larger.

Start by separating your space with an area rug. This will help break up the big rectangle and spice it up with some different texture. Next, you should think of the floor as prime real estate. Sure, that bed with drawers built into the bottom seems like a smart idea, but having furniture with legs shows more of the floor and will make your apartment seem much more open. A glass coffee table or any other see through piece of furniture could also do the trick!

When everything is in one place, it’s important to multipurpose.  Think about what can be used as a place to hold your TV but also your clothes, for example. Mounting shelves, using a cube shelf, placing your dresser inside your closet – all great ideas to think about before move in day.

If you need more inspiration or just a place to start, try searching for studio layouts on Pinterest. You’ll find all sorts of innovative ways to design a studio floor plan that fits your needs perfectly!

Most of our amazing communities offer the popular studio floor plan.

Check out the virtual tour here!

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Renting has never been easier. For those of you who have yet to experience the convenience, here are 3 Reasons To Love Your Tenant Portal:

• Pay Rent

Opting for online rent payments is both secure and easy. With two options to choose from you can pay your rent worry-free in whichever way suits you best. Automatic payments provides renters with a set-it and forget-it alternative to traditional due dates. It’s as easy as choosing the date you would like your rent payment to pull from your bank account  or credit card monthly and that’s it! Scheduling your rent payment avoids the potential for late payments and late fees.

Let’s say you want to pay half your rent now and half your rent later.  Manual payments allow for that freedom. Logging into your tenant portal and scheduling a manual payment gives the feeling of sending a physical check, by having more control of when it’s deducted and how.

Split payments between roommates, co-signers, and couples too!

• Submit Maintenance Requests

No matter if it’s 2 in the morning or 4 in the afternoon, submitting a maintenance request can be done from the palm of your hand.

Enter a description of the issue, upload any photos of the item needing attention, and hit submit. That’s it! You can even check the status to see it was received, scheduled, and that it’s been completed.

Goodbye paper maintenance requests. So long late night calls to your landlord. Good riddance lingering maintenance concerns that you lived with for way too long. Bye bye bye!

• Sign, View, & Download Documents + Communicate with Management

Everything from your lease signing to your lease renewal can be signed electronically in the tenant portal. These documents are saved and can be accessed at anytime. Your property manager can also send other important documents securely and you receive notifications if a new document is shared. These can be downloaded to your smartphone, tablet, or PC.

Quick newsletters or updates about the property can be emailed and sent via text message directly from the property manager to the resident. These can even include images, helpful tips, or reminders.

Additionally, you can update your contact information and even your renters insurance, all on the tenant portal.

Accessing the tenant portal is as simple as logging into your email or clicking an app on your phone. It’s convenient, secure, and allows renters to feel connected to their community at all times. We hope this has helped ease the minds of those worried about a more technology driven rental experience.

Ready to try it? More information on how to navigate the Online Portal can be found here.

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LOFT LIVING

These versatile open spaces feel much more like a town home than an apartment. Being welcomed by 10′-15′ cathedral ceilings is an impressive way to say hello. The first floor typically includes the kitchen, dining and living spaces. Bedroom and bathroom are found on the second floor or upper area. This is where the “loft” portion comes into play. The lofted bedroom usually has a half-wall, open to the downstairs. Renters are able to enjoy a beautiful  skylight tucked into the vaulted ceiling, while overlooking to the rest of the apartment. Pretty cool, huh?

BRIGHT, NATURAL LIGHT

The high ceilings, skylights, and large sliding glass doors of a loft let in an extravagant amount of natural light. With less barriers, light is able to flow through the space more easily. This gives the impression of living in a much bigger space than the square footage would suggest.

ATTRACTIVE & FUNCTIONAL

Living in a loft apartment allows renters to get away with decorating tricks that those in traditional floor plans could only dream of. Those tall walls are just screaming to be covered in funky artwork or antique frames and mirrors. We’ve even seen a deer hunting stand! (Wisconsin residents are the best residents, that’s for sure.) Proof that a loft is the perfect foundation for showcasing any unique style with endless possibilities.

Our loft-style residents receive more complements on their apartment home than any other. There’s something about the loft floor plan that feels refined, relaxed in a way that no traditional apartment possibly could. We encourage any renter who is looking for a fun and practical place to live to check out any one of our beautiful communities to tour a loft floor plan for yourself!

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Amazing Amenities and Features

We believe it’s how you live that matters and strive to provide our residents with unique layouts and amenities. Equipped with modern kitchens for fully functioning food prep and cooking.  These one bedroom layouts have recently received polished GE appliances, to include: glass-top stoves, microwaves, dishwashers, and full-sized refrigerators.  Serve guests or enjoy a quiet meal in the spacious dining room or living area with wide view windows and plush carpeting.

Ridge Pointe Apartments extends your comfort with bedroom ceiling fans, stylish bathrooms, and updated fixtures throughout. Located right next door is our sister-property, Ridge View Apartments.  This complex has a truly unique fitness center for all of our residents to enjoy! Extra guest parking is a nice perk too. Other added benefits include on-site laundry, large storage units, and assigned off-street parking.

Well-maintained, secure apartment homes are also a top priority. Locked and secured building entry doors give residents peace of mind. While 24 hour emergency maintenance is available with a quick phone call. The ease of paying rent has also been considered with our residents in mind. This complex comes with the addition of an online tenant portal. Giving residents the ability to set automatic, manual payments, and even split-payments. 

Outstanding Convenience

We understand that with busy lives and schedules, our residents want to have more time to enjoy the best things in life. These one bedroom apartments enjoy incredible city views! Located near nature trails and the Fox River, Ridge Pointe offers the best of both worlds. The Fox River Sanctuary and Frame Park offer opportunities for a peaceful lifestyle without missing the excitement our city has to offer.

Friday Night Live events run from June to August and provide endless entertainment. Every Saturday, Waukesha’s Farmer’s Market hosts vendors from all over the state of Wisconsin. Flowers, fresh garden vegetables, and smiles line the streets as residents enjoy their purchases just steps away from their apartment. 

Ridge Pointe also gives renters quick travel to both Lake Country, and the Metro Milwaukee area. The hassle of long morning commutes is avoided with access to major highways and interstates nearby. Plus, this Waukesha location is walkable to amazing local dining! Restaurants like Taylor’s People’s Park, Mainstream Bar and Grill, and Bernie’s Tap Room and Restaurant are all must-haves amongst Waukesha residents. 

Interested in experiencing a fresh perspective on apartment living? We invite you to visit Ridge Pointe Apartment Homes today! You can also Search Availability Now!

This apartment community is ready to provide you with a virtual tour or self-guided tour at your convenience. In keeping with all safety guidelines, Ridge Pointe is also holding an Open House tomorrow, Saturday, May 16th between 10:00 AM and 12:00 PM. Feel free to stop by or call to schedule a separate showing. Ridge Pointe Apartments is ready to accommodate and bring you the best living experience Waukesha has to offer!

The post Exclusive Living in Downtown Waukesha at Ridge Pointe Apartments appeared first on Morgenson Realty Company Inc.

1.  Check Cleaning Protocols

Asking questions is essential to protecting yourself beyond just moving day. Apartment communities have tons of high-touch areas shared by residents, guests and delivery drivers. Ask the property manager what steps have been taken to sanitize these surfaces. Intercom buttons, door handles and stair railings should all be cleaned with antibacterial products on a regular basis. 

Certain companies handle the cleaning of a vacant apartment differently than others. Professional cleaners usually provide their own cleaning supplies. Oftentimes, those are home or industrial multi-surface cleaners that kill bacteria and germs, but that isn’t always the case. Some cleaning service companies may use products they prefer or use as a personal preference. These could include things like less effective natural cleaning alternatives or even essential oils. Make sure you confirm what professional cleaning was performed in your new apartment, prior to moving in.  

Morgenson Realty has doubled-down on common area cleanings on a daily basis. That means we have cleaners on-site, at each location, cleaning all high-touch areas twice a day, every day. Our cleaners are clocking those times during the outbreak, along with extra assistance from our property managers and maintenance staff. 

2. Prep Prior to Moving Day 

All of us WANT to be the people with labeled boxes and neatly arranged clothes still on the hangers. Realistically, the majority of us are panicking last minute with everything we own in trash bags. If you consider the health risks and laundry list of logistics, moving can feel impossible. While it may seem like you need everything you own immediately after moving in, you can probably live with less. Pack things that are necessary for everyday life separate from your, “post COVID-19 crisis belongings”. Is that a thing? It is now!

Solo is the best social distancing option available. Minimize your in-person contact by taking whatever you can yourself. This will mean more trips from your old place to your new apartment, but keeps your risk level low. Don’t worry, your family won’t be disappointed they couldn’t help. Not at all. 

Moving can be freeing for some folks. It’s like spring cleaning, right? Finally, you get to toss that stained tupperware, old shower curtain, and drawers filled with random receipts. Thinking about fresh new things can be exciting and all of a sudden you’re filling your trash can with chipped coasters and your entire expired spice rack. Unfortunately, replacing those possessions isn’t as easy as it used to be. Stores aren’t as focused on stocking shelves with home decor items and Amazon shipping options are dating over a month, in some cases. If you’re able, salvage your current shower curtain and avoid risking weeks worth of shower splash onto your new bathroom floor. 

3. Know Your Must-haves 

Before physically moving or even completing your leasing process online, you’ll need to find the perfect apartment. While shopping is far from easy with a safer at home order, you can prioritize your rental needs once you decide your must-haves. Start by eliminating apartments that are outside of your budget or that you shouldn’t settle on.

Filter your online search results and only show listings you would consider applying to that day. If you know having a washer and dryer in your apartment is one of your requirements, eliminate all housing options that do not offer in-unit laundry. In addition, verify different properties by looking up their reviews. Current and past residents may have already done the legwork for you. If the only reviews you can find online talk about bed bugs, it’s safe to say that apartment is a hard pass. 

On the other hand, maybe you’re considering scheduling in-person showings at a couple of fancy properties. Is it fun to tour rental units that provide billiard rooms and other luxurious community amenities? Sure! Is it safe to schedule a tour if those units aren’t affordable? Not right now. Be thoughtful about what is realistic both for your safety and the safety of those leasing agents or property managers offering a showing.

Remember the popular theme of this crisis, we’re all in this together. While moving to a new place has added hurdles, there are kind and generous people waiting to assist you in navigating the unknowns. If you’re worried or unsure about the best ways to handle moving, we understand. Learn more about how each property is helping current and new residents move safely by contacting them directly. Simply choose which location or locations interest you most and call, email, or even text us today! There will be a property manager on the other side, waiting to answer any questions you may have. Stay well!

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Located between Interstate 94 and Capitol Drive, Hidden Ponds provides an unrestricted commute. Visit Lake Country and the entire Metro Milwaukee area with ease. Considering its name, this picturesque community is unseen from main roadways. Resting just east of Highway 16 and Pewaukee Lake.  

While maintaining it’s peaceful  surroundings, we adapted Hidden Ponds Apartments to meet all the needs of the modern renter. Our residents enjoy regular visits from beautiful cranes, deer, and even wild turkey’s, for instance. Along with its incredible views, Hidden Ponds offers premium amenities that consist of cardio rooms, an outdoor grill area, playground, and more. Additional essentials you can expect include underground parking, storage units, washers and dryers in-unit, laundry on-site for studio floor plans, plus all utilities except electric. 

Presenting renters with an abundance of floor plans, these Pewaukee apartments are often hard to come-by. Studios, 1 bedrooms and 2 bedroom apartments lined with large patios and balconies are available to tour. Loft and ranch layouts create open-concept living spaces, inviting natural light and spacious opportunities.

Don’t just take our word for it. Come see for yourself! This Saturday from 10:00 am – 4:00 pm, Hidden Ponds Apartments is hosting a Self-Guided Open House. That’s right! We understand the difficult commitment of finding your new home without the possibility of seeing it. Self-guided tours allow a safe social distance, while providing you the confidence to rent in peace. 

Contact us to schedule your self-guided or virtual tour today!

See you Saturday!

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