Wednesday, July 30, 2008

Tips on Living Alone Apartment

Tips on Living Alone Apartment

Listing For those of you who decided to move from roommate living to solo living, the transition can be a difficult adjustment—especially if this is your first experience of this type of living situation. This can be the case even for those who couldn't wait to get rid of their roommates.
If you're feeling lonely, follow these tips to revive yourself.
Cultivate a collection of music that uplifts you.With roommates, outside sounds are constantly filtering through, even when you're in your own room. There's the muffled sound of the television, the phone ringing, conversations flowing and music playing. Many of us take this for granted, but you may be surprised to find yourself missing this when all that is suddenly gone and replaced with...silence. To alleviate the weirdness, play your favorite albums—and get new ones when they start to get old. Or listen to the radio or have the television playing in the background.
Get a pet, such as a cat or dog.Pets make great companions for those who live alone. Yes, there is a reason that the "Cat Lady" stereotype developed. Rather than see her as pathetic, think of her as smart for realizing that our friends in nature provide emotional support. Not only do they provide affection and playfulness, but they force you to maintain the habit of addressing the needs of another living thing—something that could be easily forgotten when you have only you to think about.
Establish a regular night when friends come over.Host a gathering of friends at your apartment every week. It could be for any reason: poker night, watching the latest episode of Heroes, enjoying a potluck dinner together. A weekly event will infuse your apartment with the memories of the gatherings and give you something to look forward to.
Decorate your walls with photographs of your friends and family.Photographs are great reminders of the wonderful times you've shared with your loved ones. These images will make your apartment feel like home and rekindle fond memories. And you get the best of both worlds: the spirit of your friends without having to endure them hogging the remote or taking 30-minute showers.
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.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.

Monday, July 28, 2008

How to Rent an Apartment or House

How to Rent an Apartment or House
By eHow Personal Finance Editor
The rental markets in many cities are cyclical: a few boom years with renters scrambling for any available studio followed by a glut in availability. In either scenario, the most desirable rental units are snapped up the quickest. Do your homework, then hit the pavement.
Step1 Be prepared: Create a renter's re'sume' with your current and previous five addresses and landlord phone numbers, your employer and length of employment, your current salary and other income, personal references, among other information. Include a copy of your credit report (see How to Shop for a Mortgage, Step 5). You want to look as good on paper as possible to stand out from other applicants. Step2Look in the newspaper classifieds, apartment hunter publications, college campus bulletin boards, and online for available units to investigate. Ask friends about openings in their buildings. Step3Consider how much you can afford to pay. A good rule of thumb is no more than 30 percent of your take-home monthly income. Step4Enlist a rental agent to narrow your search. Depending on the market, this service may be free (paid for by landlords) or cost you a percentage of your rent when you land the apartment. Step5Turn to a roommate service if you're looking for cheaper space to share. Be clear what qualities you desire in a roommate, as well as types of people or habits you'd prefer to avoid, such as smokers.
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

Wednesday, July 23, 2008

Subleasing Your Apartment

Subleasing Your Apartment
Writing a Good Sublet AdBy Jennifer Lai, About.com
See More About:sublettingapartment adsapartment listings
Generate interest in your available sublet by writing a catchy, easy-to-read apartment listing.
Online Apartment ListingsIf you're posting your sublet ad online, follow these guidelines: Keep sentences short. Computer screens are not designed for long sentences. Eyes start to wonder, and the brain has a difficult time processing the information. Bullet-point apartment attributes. Instead of phrasing in a sentence that your apartment has two bedrooms, a balcony, doorman, etc., list these out with bullet points. Try to avoid writing paragraphs as much as possible. They're very difficult to read and process. Include photographs. Photographs not only give the eye something to rest on when staring at a computer screen, but they help sell your apartment. Remember, a picture is worth a thousand words. Make your contact information easy to find. Don't bury your email address or phone number in a paragraph. Separate all contact info into its own paragraph, preferably at the end and beginning. Use all-caps sparingly. On the computer, sentences and phrases that are written all in capital letters make the reader feel like they're being shouted at—not a feeling you want them to have. Paper FlyersFollow these guidelines for paper flyers: Type out the flyer. Don't hand-write your apartment flyer. A typewritten flyer is easier to read and makes you look more professional. Bullet-point key apartment attributes in large font. List out main attributes and make it easy enough to read from a foot or two away. Since reading a flyer is easier than reading a computer screen, you can write longer sentences and paragraphs. Use the largest font for the rent amount, the number of bedrooms and the available date. These are the most important parts of your ad, and should be the first things people see. Add tear-off tabs. Include tabs at the bottom of the flyer with your contact info for people to tear off and take with them. I recommend including your name, phone number and a short phrase, such as "vacant apt." I've ripped off so many tabs before only to forget what they're for and throw them out. Print on color paper. If you can afford to buy a small packet of pastel-colored paper, go for it! This will definitely make your ad stand out among the other flyers.
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

Monday, July 21, 2008

Finding an Apartment

Finding an Apartment

There are many ways to go about finding an apartment: look online, use brokers, check newspapers, and more. Read about the top six methods and resources that may aid you in finding an apartment.
1. Online Apartment ListingsWeb sites are a valuable resource, because they are frequently updated, and allow for longer postings, sometimes with photographs. Craigslist.org, which is one of the most visited sites, is an excellent resource. Be skeptical of certain types of listings. Also, Craigslist doesn't cover every community, and in some communities, the listings are paltry. But don't despair. There are many more Web sites with apartment listings.2. NewspapersStill a preferred method by many landlords--especially those who want to avoid the techno jungle of the world wide web--classified ads in newspapers are still worth checking out. Also, considering the popularity of Craigslist, competition may be less fierce. To brush up on apartment jargon, check out this dictionary of apartment acronyms and abbreviations.3. Apartment BrokersIn some locales, brokers are unnecessary, but in large cities, brokers control the market and may be the best way to achieve your goal of finding an apartment.4. Flyers Posted at Universities or College Residential OfficesStudents can contact their residential office for openings, and everyone can make use of fliers posted on the campus bulletin boards. These apartments tend also to be priced at a rate that is affordable to students.5. Contacting Property Managers

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.

Wednesday, July 16, 2008

"Downsizing Your Home With Style"

"Downsizing Your Home With Style" begins by helping you decide whether to get rid of what you have or if your things are worth saving. Is the piece the right size for your new space, is it in good condition, is it comfortable, or does it have special meaning to you and your family?
I love Lauri's list of things to always keep, including a sofa and matching chairs, armless chairs, any chair that swivels, anything with storage, and matching lamps and end tables.
And just as helpful is the list of things to get rid of like stuff you never use, books you'll never read again, things that are too big or too old, pillows that look old and dated, chairs that are uncomfortable, magazines, newspapers, and personal papers that you won't ever need again.
If you follow Lauri's advice, you'll discover storage space where you didn't know it existed, new uses for furniture that you thought had only one purpose, ways to make your new small space look bigger, and ways to make one room serve two or more purposes. In short, she helps you make a small space really work.
What you won't find in this book is beautiful, full-color photos of extravagant custom-designed, cutting edge rooms. What you will find are great ideas, photos of real homes for real people, and useful tips to make a move to a small space feel not so hard. In fact, clearing out and cleaning out can be very liberating! Try it. You'll see!
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

Monday, July 14, 2008

Coping with small spaces

Coping with small spaces
Choosing multifunctional furniture helps apartment dwellers utilize tight spaces with elegance. A dining table may do double-duty as a home office desk. Or a computer armoire – with doors that hide your office away when not in use – may have enough extra room to store books or blankets.If you don't have enough room for a dining table surrounded by chairs, Taryn Abbott Wilson of Pier 1 Imports suggests creating a banquette-type setting, with a bench against the wall, the table in front, and chairs on the open side. If the bench has storage beneath the seat, all the better, Wilson offers....turns into a dining table when company comes over. Interior designed by Tom Berta Photos courtesy of Decorating Den InteriorsOther multipurpose pieces could include a sturdy ottoman that doubles as a cocktail table or a futon chair or sofa that pulls out into a bed for overnight guests. Storage must be creative. Wiklem put a skirt around her bathroom sink to hide necessities, and she used two tension-mount shower rods – the interior one is for the waterproof liner and doubles as a towel rod after her morning shower; the exterior one holds an attractive non-waterproof shower curtain (you can easily fashion one out of nice fabric) and hides the drying towels from view.Let a folding floor screen fill up the blank space of a corner – and stash anything you like behind it. Wiklem and Meaney recommend using attractive trunks as coffee tables or end tables and hiding blankets or magazines inside. A sofa table or console provides height for displaying accessories or pictures and leaves plenty of empty space beneath for stacks of beautiful wooden or rattan boxes or suitcases, which also can be filled with a host of belongings.
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.

Sunday, July 13, 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.

Wednesday, July 9, 2008

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.
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.