meadowdale-apartments

Why Should You Rent an Apartment if College Is Online?

Fri, 11 Sep 2020 15:54:12 GMT

Are you a college student who suddenly has a cyber-only semester? Even though dorm life isn't a readily available option this year, you can still get the chance to act independently — in your own apartment. If you're an online-only student, take a look at the top reasons to move out of your parents' house and rent an apartment.

Silent Study Setting

Do you have younger siblings who now need to home school, parents who were asked to work from home, or extended family members in your house? The more people you live with, the less quiet study time you may have.

If your siblings, parents, aunts, uncles, grandparents, or any other household members make too much noise during the day, your own apartment can provide the peace and quiet you need to study. Not only can you study without constant interruptions, but you won't need to worry about your mom, dad, brother, or sister accidentally walking into the background during an interactive cyber college class.

Study Session Buddies

Should you rent your own apartment or move in with a roommate? Even though you need a quiet study setting, non-family member roommates can help you with schoolwork.

Create a living and learning environment with classmates from your major or friends who have the same academic interests. Don't worry if your roommates attend another college online. If they're in the same field or take the same classes, you can form a study group at home.

Beyond additional help with your schoolwork, your roommates will add a social dimension to college life. A full cyber schedule isolates students and eliminates the social ties school offers. A roommate provides plenty of opportunities for the academic (and other) discourse you may miss when you're not on campus.

Adult Independence

Fifty-five percent of American adults believe parents do too much for their young adult children, according to the Pew Research Center. As a young adult, you want to act independently. College life gives you the chance to learn how to take responsibility for yourself, without some of the added pressures you'll feel after graduation. Even though you can comfortably complete your coursework from your parents' home, this type of living situation won't allow you to act independently.

An apartment rental allows you to stand on your own, take responsibility for everything from paying bills to cooking your own meals, and encourages you to act like the young adult you are — without the need to finance your own home.

Think of an apartment as a stepping stone to adult living. You're in charge of your own household. But you don't need to worry about everything that goes along with homeownership (such as upgrades, a mortgage, property taxes, and other similar issues).

Extra Space

Is your parents' house cramped? If you don't have the space to set up a suitable work area for your online at-home classes, an apartment is an option to seriously explore — especially if you share a room with a sibling.

An apartment provides plenty of extra square footage to create a fully functional workspace. You can arrange a desk, bookshelf, and anything else you need to succeed in school. Students who plan to live alone will have the added area of a living room or spare bedroom to use for study or workspaces.

If you do have a roommate, you'll still have the space you need in a rental unit. With your own bedroom that you won't have to share with a younger brother or sister, you can set up sleep, work, and possibly even living areas. Along with your own bedroom, use a shared living or dining room as a communal library-like designated study space.

Are you ready to rent your first college apartment? Contact Meadowdale Apartments for more information on rentals for students 21 and older.

5 Practical Indicators You May Be Ready to Move Out

websitebuilder@thryv.com — Fri, 21 Aug 2020 14:14:55 GMT

Are you living at home but considering whether it's time to head out on your own? For many people, this is an emotional decision, but you can also gauge your readiness based on a few practical matters. Practical considerations can help you not only see if you're ready now but also what you need to do in order to get ready. Here are five things to consider.

1. You Can Pay the Bills

Probably the biggest consideration is likely whether or not you can pay the bills involved in having your own place. Do some research to see how you fare by pricing out apartments in your area and average utility bills. Talk to whomever you live with about what they spend for things like groceries and insurance.

Remember, though, that being able to pay the bills doesn't necessarily mean going it alone. One or more roommates can significantly reduce your expenses, as can being flexible about apartment style or location. Adjusting your plans to fit your income is a good sign of adult thinking.

2. You're Forming a Career Plan

Working people generally have one of two types of employment: a job or a career. A job is a way to pay the bills now, but it is often meant to be short term, and you may be at more of a risk for job loss and burnout. A career, though, has potential for bigger and better work as well as a direction to put your energies. It's long-term thinking.

A career doesn't just mean a corporate job or even a degree. You can build a career any way that fits your style — from a career as a barista to starting your own business or learning a skilled trade — so don't undervalue what you're doing with your skills. But do formulate a plan to look ahead and keep improving. As you plan, you can make smarter decisions for living situations.

3. You Take Care of Your Space

Do you cook and clean up after yourself? Are you already doing your own laundry, cleaning the bathroom, and vacuuming? If not, are you ready to take up responsibility for these chores? Keeping an apartment clean and being able to feed yourself are vital on your own. While no one expects a young adult to be a perfect homemaker, develop the basics of a safe and sanitary life.

4. You Handle Your Own Matters

Being independent is a lot of fun and freedom, but it also requires that you be willing and able to do the leg work of taking care of your own responsibilities. How well do you do this?

Think about how much you do for yourself already. Do you make and keep your own appointments? Do you pay things on time? Did you handle your own college registration, financial matters, and class concerns? If you don't know how to do something — like jury duty — do you ask for help and take on the work or do you want others to do it? While no one likes many of these tasks, they show you can take care of yourself.

5. You Have a Financial Buffer

Even if you don't earn a high income, you should have been able to set some money aside to get you started. Many experts recommend the equivalent of three to six months of basic expenses — rent, utilities, food, and gas — but your circumstances dictate the right amount.

Having built a buffer is important not just in an economic way. It also shows you that you can plan for the future, that you know how to prioritize, and that you say no to yourself without others' help.

As you look at your own track record and what you're already doing, you will begin to see more clearly if you have the practical skills to take care of yourself and leave the nest. Start learning more about your living options today by visiting Meadowdale Apartments .

Renting Vs. Ownership: Why Renting a Home Is a Great Idea

Thu, 16 Jul 2020 13:08:33 GMT

Buying a home and renting a home have their pros and cons. However, renting and buying a home are markedly different. Below are some of the areas in which the two differ and why the rental option is a great idea.

Flexibility

Homeownership only makes sense if you plan to live in the house for the long term. You might not gain anything and can even lose money if you sell early. Thus, moving soon after purchase is financially disastrous.

You do not have to worry about that as a renter. As long as you signed a reasonable lease, you can even move after a year without much damage to your finances. Thus, renting is a great option if you move a lot, for example, because of your job.

Upfront Money

One of the biggest barriers to homeownership is the down payment. The conventional down payment is 20% of the purchase price, which works out to $60,000 for a $300,000 house. Again, you do not need a down payment to rent. The rental equivalent of a down payment is the security deposit, which is less than a typical down payment.

Sure, you may be able to buy a house with a low or zero down payment, but that option comes with some disadvantages. For example, a zero down payment often restricts you to a few lenders, increases your rates, and increases your monthly payments.

Ongoing Costs

Homeownership requires more money beyond the mortgage payment and down payments. You have to pay:

Homeowners insurance premiums
Property taxes
Maintenance and repair costs

If you rent your home, you also have some ongoing costs, such as utilities and renters insurance. However, the ongoing costs will not be as high as they would be if you bought the same home. The difference arises since the property owner takes care of some of the costs.

Responsibility

Homeownership also comes with responsibilities that renters do not face. In most cases, money alone will not take care of such responsibilities. For example, as a homeowner, you have to look for someone to mow the lawn, maintain the roof, service the major appliances, or repair a broken fence. A renter can be away for an extended period without responsibility worries.

Trial Period

As previously mentioned, you are likely to lose money if you move soon after a home purchase. As such, you might have to live in a house or neighborhood you do not like so as not to lose money. When you rent, you can try out the area for some time without a firm commitment. You can rent then move if you do not like the neighborhood or rent then buy a property in the area.

Amenities

If you rent a house, you are likely to enjoy more amenities than if you buy a house. Most property developers are able to include more amenities in rental houses than houses for sale. For example, a rental complex may include a basketball court for the renters.

Many people cannot afford to buy a house with a basketball court. For those who do (such as condominium owners), relevant fees apply.

Depreciation

Property values usually appreciate, but this is not a given. People do buy homes and sell them at the same or even lower prices. With a rental property, you do not have to worry about any depreciation since you do not have any equity in the house.

Many homeowners start out as renters before they take the purchase plunge. If you are at the renting stage, Meadowdale Apartments can provide your next home. Contact us so that we can show you the available properties.

Maximizing Wall Space in an Apartment

Thu, 11 Jun 2020 13:05:57 GMT

When an apartment doesn't have a lot of square footage, you can still maximize the use of the area with the wall space. Use creative options and plan ahead to really make the most out of the walls in your apartment.

Follow a room by room guide to see ideas and then brainstorm some of your own ideas to help save space, keep an apartment organized, and make the most out of areas without any extra clutter.

1. Kitchen

Many kitchen items take up a lot of counter and cabinet space. Your kitchen tools may include odd shaped items like whisks, cutting boards, and can openers. Use a peg board to organize a majority of the items. Peg boards come in multiple sizes and feature small holes evenly scattered around the board.

Once you have an item to hang, insert hanging hooks into the board and place the item on the hook. Lay everything out so you can plan accordingly and fit as much as you can onto the board. With the organization, you will save cabinet space and easily access items.

In another section of a kitchen, consider a board with screwed in hanging hooks. The screwed in hooks have extra strength and will help organize a collection of coffee mugs. With oblong shapes and large handles, you will easily organize mugs on a hanging board as opposed to placing them all inside a cabinet.

2. Living Room

In a living room, one of the easiest ways to save space is to ditch the entertainment center and wall mount a television. You will save a lot of space and add extra seating options to the living room. Consider the installation of floating shelves for media items. Floating shelves have a minimalist look to them and will look like you have less clutter in the room.

Use the floating shelves to hold media players, cable boxes, and other items with direct connections to the television. On other walls, use floating shelves to organize books, DVDs, and other media you may access in the living room.

For areas next to couches and chairs, consider a wall mounted remote organizer. Keep the remotes in a single location and within easy reach. You will save space on small end tables and could even eliminate the need for end tables as you use wall space instead.

3. Bathroom

Towel racks are a common wall item in the bathroom, but you could also utilize the space above a toilet for organized wall options. For example, a hanging basket or net could hold extra rolls of toilet paper.

A hanging shelf could hold extra bathroom supplies like shampoo, washcloths, and shaving cream. The use of the racks will save counter space near the sink area. In the vanity of the bathroom consider hanging individual objects like a toothbrush or wall-mounted hand soap. You will keep a clean look to the bathroom and prevent messes on the bathroom counter.

4. Bedroom

A bedroom will typically have a closet for organizing items, but you may find a lot of extra space with the walls. A wall hung cube organizer will help you keep track of random odds and ends in your bedroom. For example, cubes could hold books, belts, purses, and other accessories.

A coat rack will keep bedroom items within an easy reach. For example, you could hang bathrobes, pajamas, and extra blankets on the coat rack. Place the rack on a side wall and have quick access without the need to climb far out of the bed.

For all your apartment needs, contact us at Meadowdale Apartments . We have multiple apartments available and once you see the spaces, you will visualize all the ways to optimize the wall space.

4 Advantages of an Upper-Level Apartment

websitebuilder@thryv.com — Tue, 12 May 2020 18:02:25 GMT

As you hunt for apartments, one decision you need to make involves the location of an apartment. You need to decide whether you want a lower-level apartment or an upper-level apartment. Each option has advantages, and knowing the benefits will help you make a selection.

Learn about upper-level apartments and all the advantages with a second-story living space. With the information, you will make an informed decision and understand what to expect when you rent the apartment.

1. Balcony Space

An upper-level apartment often includes a private balcony area. Use the space to set up a small table and some chairs to enjoy the outdoors. The space really helps expand the use of the apartment and makes the floor plan feel bigger. Having the private area to yourself makes a big difference from public areas on a lower level.

On warm days, you can enjoy meals, and the outdoor space caters to hobbies. For example, you could hang up planters and grow flowers or vegetables on the balcony space. You could use the space to decorate for holidays like the Fourth of July, Christmas, or Halloween. The area also makes a relaxing reading space as you look out and enjoy some fresh air.

A balcony space typically expands off an apartment living room. When you keep the doors open, you could also sit on the balcony and enjoy views of the television as you sit outdoors.

2. Safety and Security

An upper-level home naturally increases the security to your apartment. Window access is harder due to the heights, and access to the interior door would require multiple entry points and stair access.

Many people feel safer inside an upper-level apartment due to the increased security. Along with the natural security advantages of an upper level, the security becomes enhanced further with the features implemented by an apartment complex. Some of the features may include 24-hour security monitoring, security alarms, and security monitors for the whole complex.

If you seek out extra security, an upstairs apartment provides the extra comfort.

3. Noise

When you choose the top level of an apartment complex, you eliminate any noise distractions that come from levels above you. You cannot pick your neighbors in an apartment building, but with an upper-level apartment, you do eliminate the chance of having a loud neighbor bang on the floor above you.

In some cases, the noises are unavoidable, especially when people have young children or pets. However, if you specifically request an upper-level apartment, you do not need to worry about floor noise above you. Relax and enjoy the apartment space, especially if you like peace and quiet.

4. Stairs

At first glance, stairs do not seem like an advantage of an upper-level apartment, but the use of stairs does come with multiple advantages. Stairs help you burn more calories than jogging, and the daily use of stairs could become part of your exercise routine.

Stairs also help with heart health. The daily use of stairs helps increase heart rate, which will naturally help with cholesterol levels, healthy arteries, and your overall heart health. Mentally, the use of stairs can also increase your endorphins, which gives you feelings of happiness and a reduction of stress.

Not only could you use the stairs each time you leave the apartment, but you could turn the staircase into your area for exercise. Each day, you could do laps up and down the stairs as your main form of exercise.

For more information on upper-level apartments, contact us at Meadowdale Apartments . We have upper-level and lower-level apartments available with multiple floor plans and both one- or two-bedroom options. Our experienced apartment managers will help you find an apartment to fit your needs.

Install Furnishings and Decor Without Damaging Your Apartment

Thu, 16 Apr 2020 16:35:34 GMT

Are you moving into a new apartment? Filling the rooms with furniture and decorations often requires affixing things to the walls, and always requires setting furniture on that pristine floor. How do you make the space your own without putting your deposit in jeopardy? Here are some tips to help you avoid damage to these surfaces from your furniture and decorations.

1. Furniture Feet and Bumpers

Any flooring types other than carpet may need protection from furniture feet. Often made of rubber, felt, or even a carpet material, protectors may have a peel-and-stick adhesive backing to affix them to furniture legs. Others may have a slip-on function. Make sure all furniture, from sofas and bed frames to tables and shelves, all the way down to ottomans, have protected feet.

If your apartment is small, you'll likely have your furnishings near the walls, too. You don't want your desk to gouge the wall if you bump into it too hard, so consider adding a protective bumper on the edge nearest the wall.

2. Alternative Wall-Hanging Tools

What if your rental agreement says you can't use tape on the walls? What if small nails and even command strips are against the rules? And if you just don't want to fill in nail holes and scrape off adhesive when you move out, you still have options for hanging lightweight decor on walls. Some alternatives to consider include:

Sticky putty, which can hold up paper decor
Specialized micro-suction cup hangers
Magnets and magnetic paint (if you're allowed to repaint the walls)
Spring steel hooks such as monkey hooks (these do make a tiny hole)

Different areas of your apartment may require different solutions. For example, a suction cup hanger will only work on a smooth, flat surface. So if your walls are textured, you'll only be able to use this type of hooks on other surfaces such as doors or windows.

3. Racks, Stands, and Tension Rods for Hanging Items

Some types of decor, such as hanging plants, can look equally elegant when placed on a stand or hung from a freestanding rack rather than on the wall. And if you want to hang things from the ceiling, a tension rod may be your best bet. Some tension rods can go the entire width of the room, braced against the walls, while others stand vertically from floor to ceiling.

4. Vinyl Decals for Walls and Windows

Some stick-on decorations are made of vinyl, hold themselves up, yet use no glue or other adhesive. However, many other decals do use adhesive of some sort. So be sure you obtain your decals from a reputable source. Choose products that have great ratings and reviews, don't use adhesive, and remove from surfaces easily, even after a significant period of time.

One caveat to using vinyl decals is that you should never apply them until the paint on the walls has had plenty of extra drying time. Although the paint may seem dry to the touch, it may take up to 6–8 weeks in some cases before dry enough to stick a vinyl decal on with no chance of damage.

However, you can use vinyl decals on your windows as well, without worrying about whether the surface needs to dry.

These are just a few furnishing and decorating ideas that can allow you to avoid damaging the pristine walls, floors, and ceilings in a new rental apartment. If you haven't found the right apartment yet, get in touch with Meadowdale Apartments today, and we can help you find a new apartment to decorate with these noninvasive decor hacks.

3 Mistakes to Avoid When Renting an Apartment

Wed, 18 Mar 2020 16:49:45 GMT

As exciting as renting a new apartment is, there are a lot of details that you should attend to before you sign a lease and move in. As you research and prepare for a new apartment, avoid these three common mistakes, and your upcoming residency at the place should go well.

1. Neglect to Purchase Renters Insurance

Renters insurance is a vitally important form of insurance for anyone who leases an apartment, and yet it's a widely underutilized protection. Only 37 percent of renters purchase renters insurance — which means the majority of people who lease an apartment don't have the protection.

When you purchase renters insurance, a policy will generally provide two important forms of protection.

First, a renters policy will protect your personal belongings from covered perils such as fire, theft, and vandalism as well as from other risks noted on your policy. The belongings that you're able to insure run the gamut from socks and T-shirts to high-end furniture and electronics.

Second, a renters policy also provides you with personal liability coverage. Should someone sue you in a covered suit, personal liability coverage will help pay any legal fees or settlements that are associated with the lawsuit.

Moreover, these protections come at a highly affordable price. Nationwide, the average cost of a renters policy works out to around $187 annually , which is only around $16 per month. In Illinois, policies tend to be even a little cheaper. The average cost for renters insurance in the state is $171 annually, or $14.25 each month.

2. Fail to Check Your Commute at the Right Time

Most people who rent a new apartment know they should research how long their commute to work or school will be from the new residence. Many people incorrectly check this, though, because they don't look up the commute at the right time of day or on the right day of the week.

A lot of people will check their commute whenever they have a free moment to — which usually isn't at the time of day that they will actually go to or come home from work. For example, someone who works an office job with normal business hours might look up their commute during the evening or on the weekend, which isn't when they go to work.

While platforms that provide traffic and public transit information let users set the specific day and time that they want directions and travel time for, people frequently forget to set these details. If the details aren't set, platforms will provide information based on the present day and time.

For accurate information, don't forget to adjust the day and time when you look up a commute online. The adjustment is easy to make, but it's one that could prove costly if you forget to put in the right settings. In some areas, commute times increase drastically on weekdays and during peak rush hour.

3. Ignore Budget Recommendations

Everyone's personal budget must be adjusted for their specific circumstances, but general guidelines are nonetheless useful when setting a budget. With regard to housing, LendKey recommends to budget about 30 percent of your income for housing-related costs. For someone who earns $5,000 a month, this would allow for $1,500 per month to pay rent with.

This isn't a hard-and-fast rule, but it's helpful to keep in mind as you budget. You may be able to afford a rent that's slightly higher than 30 percent of your income, but you won't have as much to spend in other categories. Conversely, you'll be able to save more if your rent is less than 30 percent.

Just don't ignore the guideline outright and fail to consider rent as a percentage of income. Many people have found it helpful.

If you need a new apartment, contact Meadowdale Apartments .

Work From Home? 4 Advantages of an Extra Room

Wed, 22 Jan 2020 02:22:02 GMT

Working from home comes with a lot of luxuries, but the key to successfully getting your job done is having the proper space to work. When you rent an apartment, you have the option to live in a two-bedroom place.

Even though two rooms costs more than one, you will have a number of advantages to help with your work from home lifestyle. Learn about these benefits and ways you can thrive while you work from home.

1. Dedicated Workspace

When you work from home, you may easily get distracted with everyday elements of an apartment. For example, if you work in a kitchen, you may find yourself distracted with food options or daily chores like dishes. In another room, you may be distracted by television or other media options.

If you opt to rent an apartment with an extra room, you will have a dedicated workspace without extra distractions. You can set up the office to emulate a real office, which allows you to stay focused on work during your work hours.

2. Home Office Deduction

While a two-bedroom apartment may cost more than a single bedroom apartment, some of your costs may be offset with a home office deduction. Anyone who rents or owns a home has the ability to add a home office deduction to their tax filings.

The home office deduction is typically simplified on taxes and will include the space you use in your home to conduct business. The amount varies and is all based on the individual taxes, but the deduction helps as long as you have a single room dedicated to your business needs.

If you do all of your work in your living room, then a home office deduction may not apply. The separate room will help eliminate any problems and reduce the amount of taxes you owe as a business owner.

3. Work Meetings

In some cases, your work from home job may require you to meet with clients and potential customers. Having a professional space to conduct the meetings will make all the difference. With a home office, you have the ability to set up a desk and extra furniture specifically catered towards work meetings.

The space will add a professional touch to the business without mixing into your everyday home life. With the home office, you have the ability to represent your brand and business through office decorations, various products, and business designs like logos.

The meeting space may accommodate multiple people and allows you to setting up meetings at your home instead of a public location like a coffee shop or library. With your own meeting space, you have the ability to set your own meeting hours and can be flexible with clients as needed.

4. Workspace Organization

When you work from home without an office, organization may be a struggle. One room could have a filing cabinet, another room may have your computer desk, and a third room could have business storage in a closet.

There's no need to go from room to room looking for something when you can have all the items in a single location. A separate office allows full workspace organization, including the ability to put in filing cabinets, organizers, and other business options.

With everything business-related in a single room, you can separate your business life and personal life all within a single apartment. When your workday is complete, simply shut the office door to enjoy the rest of the apartment without any business worries.

Find a two-bedroom apartment to fit your business needs with our options at  Meadowdale Apartments . Our apartment community is filled with a lot of great options, and we will help find the best location to suit both your personal life and business life.

Tips for Downsizing From a House to an Apartment

websitebuilder@thryv.com — Wed, 18 Dec 2019 09:30:43 GMT

Downsizing is the new upgrading. With thought leaders teaching people the wonders of living better lives with less, more people are realizing that they feel better when they have less clutter. If you have decided to downsize from a house to an apartment, consider these tips for a better overall experience.

Create Lists to Make Sure Your Needs Are Met

One common mistake with downsizing is that people forget to consider all their needs. If you want to have a large play area for your kids, moving into a place without adequate space can leave you feeling frustrated. If you want a spare room for visitors, you don't want to end up resenting that you only have the couch to offer a guest.

What do you love about your current house that you also want to be a part of your new apartment home? With this in mind, make a list of all the basic needs you have for a new apartment home. You might want to make a list of things you don't want, too, so you know which apartments to avoid.

Make Piles in Each Room

As you go through your things, decide what you want to keep, donate, sell, store, or give away. Be as thorough as possible. Don't just go through your stuff once. Try to go through everything at least twice. Do this on different days. You may find that you are more receptive to getting rid of excess clutter when you have some time to think about it and go through more stuff.

Throw a Downsizing Party

After looking through your things and deciding what you want to give away, you may wonder how to best give some of your stuff away. One fun way to bring friends together and also offer them something they'll appreciate from your move is to throw a downsizing party.

Designate one room as the party room. This can be the living room or den so that you won't have visitors wandering all through your home. Then, as you go through your things, place all the stuff you want to give away in the party room. Then, invite guests to come over at the same time and choose what they want to take home.

Here's a fun idea: serve beverages in glasses or mugs that you also want to give away. Encourage your guests to take their beverage to-go in the cup it was served in. Another idea is to have a table set up with different glasses and cups, then encourage people to choose their own to keep. That way, they choose a glass they like.

Consider How Many Collections You Need

Collecting things is a worthwhile hobby. A collection of postcards or magnets can bring to mind memories of exciting travels. A stamp collection may also double as a sound financial investment. However, not all collections bring joy.

Look over your collections and decide how much they mean to you. If you can get rid of a few excess collections, that might be a good way to start letting go of some of the clutter from your home. Some collections can be sold online or at a resale shop. Then, when you move into your new apartment, it can feel freeing to not bring along things that stopped bringing you joy.

Give Yourself Plenty of Time

The process of downsizing takes time and is not something that should be rushed. If you are short on time during a move, consider renting a storage unit for your extra things until you have a chance to sort them properly for downsizing. The one mistake you don't want to make is selling off items with little reward if they are valuable to you on a personal or financial level.

Finally, there are many clear advantages to moving from a house into a new apartment. Contact the caring team at Meadowdale Apartments today to discuss our variety of rental options that are sure to suit you. You may be amazed at how great you feel in a spacious apartment with a fresh start to being decluttered and organized.

Moving to Your First Apartment? A To-Do Checklist

websitebuilder@thryv.com — Tue, 19 Nov 2019 15:48:07 GMT

Nothing contributes to a sense of maturity and excitement like moving into your first apartment. This is your first experience living on your own, so chances are that you don't completely understand the basics of what you need, how to decorate, and how to ensure your transition goes smoothly. Create a simple checklist to ensure that the entire process is as seamless as possible.

Here are a few tips to create your own first apartment move-in checklist.

Pack and Purchase Essentials

Moving into your first apartment often means that you are gifted a lot of household items. Anything you don’t receive as a gift, you will need to purchase. Because you may be on a tight budget, stick to the basics and only purchase, pack, and move what you will need to start your new life.

Here is a room-by-room breakdown of what you should either purchase or ask your parents and loved ones to gift you:

Kitchen. Grab cooking utensils, pots and pans, dish towels, plates, bowls, eating utensils, a can opener, mixing bowls, coffee mugs, a toaster, and a coffee pot.
Bathroom. Keep it simple and purchase a bath mat, toothbrush holder, shower curtain, toilet brush, toilet plunger, hand towels, and bath towels.
Bedroom. Purchase a bed frame, a mattress, sheets, a dresser, a table lamp, and curtains.
Living room. Get whatever you can afford, such as a couch, coffee table, television, television stand, end tables, and lamps.

Purchase other necessities and odds and ends that you might forget you need on a daily basis. This includes toilet paper, cleaning supplies, paper towels, and anything else you need to keep your new apartment clean and comfortable.

Hire Movers and Purchase Renter's Insurance

When you purchase essentials and packing boxes, hire a moving company and research renter's insurance. Be sure to choose a moving company that is within your budget. Ask friends and family for help and rent a moving truck, if you are tight on cash. Provide professionals movers or friends and family at least three- or four-weeks' notice to ensure there is plenty of time to get organized.

Research renter's insurance and purchase a policy that will fit your budget and needs. For example, an actual cash value policy is more cost-effective, but you will only be paid for what any damaged or stolen items are actually worth, not what you may have paid for them.

Fill Out a Change of Address Form and Set Up Your Utilities

Head to your local post office and fill out a change of address form at least one to two weeks before you move. This will ensure there is plenty of time for the postal service to redirect your mail.

Turn on your utilities, cable, and telephone service. Provide the utility companies with an exact move-in date so you don't accidentally pay for services you aren't using.

Prepare for Moving Day

Talk to your landlord or property manager to determine when you can move in. Some apartment complexes have rules about which days and times you are able to move in your belongings. Consider loading the moving trucks the night before to ensure you have plenty of time to move the next day. When you get there, snap photos of your new apartment and note any damage you see.

Carefully move in your boxes and furniture, making sure to not cause any damage. If any moving-related damage occurs, tell your landlord immediately to ensure it is repaired quickly. Lay down carpet or flooring film to protect the floors from any damage.

Moving into your first apartment can be stressful, which is why it is crucial to plan ahead to avoid any unnecessary bumps in the road. Contact the professionals at Meadowdale Apartments with all your move-in questions.

5 Ways to Use a Spare Bedroom

websitebuilder@thryv.com — Tue, 22 Oct 2019 05:05:46 GMT

Unless you live in an uber-expensive major metropolitan area, 2-bedroom apartments typically don't rent for much more than a 1-bedroom apartment. This is good news for singles or couples without children who are feeling cramped in a 1-bedroom apartment but don't want to pay a premium for a little extra living space.

Here are five ideas to make the most of a spare bedroom.

1. Create a Dedicated Office Space

If you are self-employed and work from home, you may be able to take a tax deduction for a home office space. The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) bases this deduction on the percentage of your home you use to conduct business. A dedicated space office space makes it much easier for people to balance their work and personal lives. Simply shut the door when the workday is over.

Even if you aren't self-employed, a dedicated office space is still ideal for keeping your apartment organized. Outfit the room with a desk, your computer and printer, and file cabinets. This will give you a quiet place to open mail, file important documents, plan your monthly budget or weekly menu, check your calendar, or study.

2. Create a Walk-In Beauty Room

If you're all about fashion, the typical apartment bedroom closet probably won't do. Solve the problem by using your spare room as a giant walk-in closet. You'll have plenty of room to store your fabulous shoe collection and clothing.

Set up a vanity with a mirror and a chair or stool, and you have a place to keep your makeup, nail polish, hair appliances and accessories, jewelry, and more. Instead of taking up valuable space in the bathroom, you'll have your own special place for everything. A walk-in beauty room is also a good place to keep the ironing board and iron.

Additionally, you'll have somewhere to get ready. If you live with another person, they will greatly appreciate you no longer taking over the bedroom closet or hogging the bathroom while you get ready each day.

3. Create a Craft Room

Whether you enjoy painting, making jewelry, sewing, or doing some other hobby that allows for your artistic expression, craft supplies take up a lot of room! All the supplies can quickly overtake limited closet space and storage areas, which can lead to a messy, disorganized apartment.

A spare bedroom is the perfect place to set up a workstation, sewing machine, or painting easel. You'll have plenty of space for storing your arts and crafts supplies, fabrics and notions, or paints and brushes.

4. Create a Library

Do you love to read? This pastime has been declining over the past several years, but for the true bibliophile, their love of books isn't likely to go anywhere. Even in the age of minimalism, many book lovers are unwilling to part with their book collection.

Fill your spare room with bookshelves to house all your books. Add a comfy chair or chaise lounge, a soft blanket, and a reading light, and you have a cozy place to curl up with a cup of tea or mug of coffee and escape with a book for a while. A library is also a good place to store a treasured album collection and set up an old turntable.

5. Create a Home Workout Center

Going to the gym isn't always convenient. Heading to your spare room to lift weights, run on the treadmill, and practice your yoga poses is, though. If physical fitness is important to you, a home gym will ensure you get your workout in no matter what.

You always have time to walk down the hallway. And when you are done, simply close the door. With a separate workout space, your home décor will no longer be ruined by the sight of the treadmill collecting clothing in the corner of your bedroom.

Do you need more space? Consider how much more efficient your household could be with an extra room. Contact us today to discuss the 2-bedroom apartment options we have available.

4 Smart Steps to Set Up Your First Kitchen Right

websitebuilder@thryv.com — Thu, 19 Sep 2019 04:11:12 GMT

As you move into your first apartment, the kitchen will be one of its most valuable assets. For most Americans, the kitchen is more than just a place to prepare sustenance. It's the heart of the home, bringing nourishment for the body and the soul.

That means stocking your first kitchen is key to a successful move. But what should you know about setting up your kitchen if you're new to the idea? Here are four steps to do it quickly, properly, and inexpensively.

1. Talk to the Cooks Around You

Before you head out shopping for kitchen items, talk to those around you who do a majority of their own cooking. This could be one or both of your parents, older siblings, friends who live on their own, or even coworkers. Ask them for the most used items in their kitchens and recommendations on what you should focus on.

As you talk to others — especially those who know you well — you will start seeing patterns of items people can't live without. Use this expertise as a guide as you tailor the list to your own needs. And avoid taking your cues from professional chefs and cooking shows — at least for now.

2. Assess Your Actual Cooking Style

No two cooks are alike, of course, so their kitchens shouldn't be completely alike. To create your own kitchen, determine what your actual, realistic cooking style is instead of just mimicking others. Your parent may love to cook large batches of goodies for the holidays, but if you're not into baking, you probably only need a small fraction of their essential baking utensils.

If you still live at home, take note of how you cook. Do you microwave most things? Use the grill? Eat a lot of fresh foods or prepared ingredients? If left to your own devices, are you more likely to order a pizza or stir-fry what's left in the fridge? Do you breakfast and run or sit down and enjoy your coffee?

The way you tend to cook and eat now will inform your early forays into feeding yourself once on your own. Plan purchases based on your actual usage. If you like fresh ingredients, for example, you'll probably need a bigger knife set, more mixing bowls, or better stove top cookware than if you just like to open a box and pour. If you often turn to the microwave, you're likely to do so in your own place as well.

3. Start With the Basics

Once you have an idea what people actually use in their kitchens — and how you will likely cook — purchase the basics to get started. For most cooks, this includes things like:

A large pot with lid
One or two good knives
Cutting board
Wooden spoons
A skillet
Large baking sheet
A set of dishware and glassware
A casserole dish
One or two mixing bowls
Measuring cups and spoons

If you will be busy with your new career or schoolwork, you may not need more than one or two of most cookware items. However, if you already like to cook for others or are adventurous, consider adding at least one or two extra varieties or sizes of these basic items.

You may want to run out and buy a lot of the beautiful, fun, and exciting kitchen gadgets available, but fight that temptation for now. Until you know what you actually need, you could end up wasting a lot of money. You may also fill up your kitchen storage space quickly and not have room to grow.

4. Make a List

Once you move out and begin taking care of your own meals, post a list on the refrigerator for the future. This is your wish list to be added to and prioritized as you learn what you really like and really need. Consider buying one item on your wish list each month or on holidays to build up your kitchen over time.

Ready to start planning your first kitchen? At Meadowdale Apartments , our modern apartments feature ample kitchens that are ready to serve as the heart of your first home. Stop by today to visit them yourself.

4 Skills You Should Develop When You Rent Your First Apartment

websitebuilder@thryv.com — Tue, 20 Aug 2019 18:42:47 GMT

The first apartment you rent should be a happy place for you to be in, but it will more than likely show you how different living on your own can be. You can’t compare living at home with your parents or living in campus housing to living in your own apartment.

When you're in a regular rental, you're responsible for more than you were in a dorm with a cafeteria or at home with family. If you're just starting out, it can be quite a learning curve, and that's OK.

A few simple skills help make your life in your new apartment a lot easier and happier. Don't worry if you've never considered these or if your friends all seem to know them already and you don't. Everyone goes through this learning period when they first move out. Read below to see some things you can learn.

How to Avoid Damaging Fixtures and Walls

Chances are you already know that leaving nail holes in the wall doesn't look nice. And if you're sensible, you will want to avoid any purposeful damage to your rental property. But you also need to know how to prevent subtle damage that can happen without you realizing it.

For example, if you need to use a wrench to remove something like a showerhead — say, you've decided to put a handheld showerhead on the pipe from the shower wall in your bathroom — you should place a tissue, paper towel, or soft cloth around whatever the wrench will touch. This prevents pits from the compression of the wrench's jaws and stops scratches in case the item is so tight that the wrench slips a bit.

You should also become acquainted with all the things removable hooks can be used for. Some brands offer devices now that use adhesives that do not damage walls, and they come in sizes that are large enough to use for hanging curtain rods. You can even find some that you can use for hanging pictures if you're staying somewhere temporarily and don't want to add even small holes to the wall.

How to Prevent Drain Clogs

No matter where you live, drain clogs and slow drains will be a recurring issue. Your task is to make them recur as infrequently as possible, which means knowing how to prevent clogs and not just clear them.

For open drains, such as those in kitchen sinks (these are ones that don't have stoppers sitting above the drain opening), use metal mesh nets. These come in different sizes and will stop small things like seeds and rice grains that could jam up a garbage disposal. If your bathroom sink has an open drain, get a small net for that to catch hairs.

Learn what you can and can't put into a garbage disposal, too. You need to know that your disposal has certain things it can handle and certain things that it can’t.

How to Plan Meals

Your budget will dictate a lot of what you eat, but even if you're stuck in the realm of instant-ramen, you need to know how to balance that starch and fat out by adding vegetables and protein. Meal planning helps tremendously, and you should look up different resources online to help you plan out your meals in a health-conscious, budget-friendly way.

How to Stay Productive and Avoid Procrastination

Finally, when you're on your own away from parents or the study-heavy environment of a dorm, procrastination can set in. If you already procrastinate, this habit can get worse when you move into your own place.

Try to set routines and think about the consequences and benefits of getting stuff done now. You need to keep your apartment clean because a mess can have negative psychological effects.

Whether you're getting your very first apartment or living without roommates for the first time, you'll have an adjustment period. Living at Meadowdale Apartments can make that transition easier.

Having a Baby? Why You Should Rent Instead of Buy

websitebuilder@thryv.com — Fri, 19 Jul 2019 03:47:57 GMT

For many couples, starting their own family means settling down and buying a house. But there are many great reasons to seriously consider continuing (or choosing) to rent an apartment instead. What are some of these excellent reasons to make this choice? Here are a few you might relate to.

1. Less Maintenance

A house and land come with their own set of responsibilities. Your new baby is an even more important responsibility and joy. Focus on your little one and your family by reducing the amount of unnecessary work taking care of your belongings.

If you buy a home right now, you will have to take care of the yard, clean, and do maintenance on the house. Couples on a budget may find themselves with a home that requires remodeling — sometimes even extensive work. Do you really want to manage all that and a newborn too? Or, would you rather leave the repairs, maintenance, and yard work to a landlord?

2. Less Space to Cover

Generally, apartments and condos are smaller than most houses. While this may be a drawback as a family gets very large, new families often find it a blessing. Choose a home without stairs, for instance, to avoid both a hazard for little ones and endless trips up and down the stairs hauling toys, clothes, and supplies.

In addition to minimizing your own steps as a new parent, less square footage also means that utilities cost less.

3. Community

New parents are sometimes overwhelmed by the change in their lives. They may feel a lack of adult conversation and friendship. Apartments usually have a built-in community of other adults — often families, in particular — that can help you navigate these first few years. Your neighbors are a source of advice, assistance, and comfort during what is often one of the most challenging times.

4. Budget Stability

Renting generally lends itself to budgeting more easily than owning a home does. New parents often have a hard time budgeting for the added costs of raising a new baby since many of these costs vary wildly. You may spend $10,000 or more per year on child care, baby supplies, medical care, and food.

The best way to keep your budget in check during this time is to reduce other expenses and limit surprise costs. When you own a home, you pay property taxes, homeowners insurance, repairs, maintenance, and HOA fees. These can end up as big budget busters.

A rented apartment, on the other hand, is a set amount of money per month. Repairs, maintenance, and upgrades don't come out of your pocket. Utilities are limited and may be included in the rent. All of these aspects make budgeting easier as you adjust to your new life.

5. Ability to Adjust

When you have your first child, you don't know what the future will hold. A couple who purchases a house too quickly might find that things are not going as they had planned. You may want to move closer to (or farther from) family, for instance.

You might end up with more kids than you planned. You may want to downsize so one parent can stay at home. Or you may need to move closer to professional medical help for an ill child.

Whatever adjustments you may decide to make later on will be easier if you rent rather than own. You can pick up and move your life, change your costs, and follow your passions much easier than if you have to list and sell a home.

Renting a home and buying one both have upsides when you have a new baby. But if you think that the pros of getting an apartment might make it the right choice for you, check out the beautiful accommodations at Meadowdale Apartments today.

How to Choose a Reliable Roommate

websitebuilder@thryv.com — Sat, 29 Jun 2019 14:28:13 GMT

Roommates are more common than ever for American adults. Nationwide, about 30 percent of adults now live with a roommate or a parent. Apartment sharing allows people to cut their costs without the need to sacrifice quality. A roommate has the potential for a lot of benefits, but problems can arise as well. Here is what everyone should know before they share.

Concerns With Friends

One of the first thoughts people have is to ask a friend to room with them. The situation can seem perfect. Two people who know and trust each other can obviously live together amicably. Unfortunately, living with someone allows people to have a level of familiarity that can damage a relationship rather than strengthen it.

Avoid common problems. Only choose a friend who has stable employment and handles money responsibly. Look for a match in tidiness expectations and social activities. An early riser who prefers quiet evenings will likely struggle to live with a noisy night owl. Also, you might want to get to know their friends or romantic partners because both can sometimes hinder friendly roommate relationships.

Risks of Strangers

Sharing a home with a stranger might seem nerve-wracking, but many people do so comfortably every day. Comprehensive interviews and research help to determine if the individual is the right choice. An interview should include questions on their job, relationships, and personal habits like alcohol use or smoking.

Learn if they have pets or plan to adopt any animals. Know how long they plan to stay. A long-term renter may not want to start the interview process again in a few months. Ask about their earlier rental experiences and why they left those locations. Discuss their hobbies, work schedules, and activities they take part in with their friends.

Contact their prior roommates and landlords. Search their name online to see what information may appear and review their social media accounts. The posts shared on their pages should at least somewhat match the person they claim to be in their interview.

Reminders for Everyone

Even the closest friends and family struggle to get along at times when they share a space. Expect some disagreements occasionally, and look for ways to resolve differences peacefully. Do not seek out a roommate with the idea that they will become a friend. The arrangement can become uncomfortable if personalities clash or the other person lacks the same desire.

Plan for the worst in case they do not live up to their end of the bargain. Even if the roommate signs the lease, both people lose the rental if one does not pay their share. Set aside enough money to cover their share of the rent for a couple of months. If they are not on the lease, ask for a deposit you can hold in case they move unexpectedly or cannot pay rent.

Make certain everyone agrees on the important things before they move in or pay a deposit. Important decisions include how to split the cost of utilities, how to comfortably use shared areas like the kitchen and bathroom, and if each roommate will cook for themselves. Divide the cleaning tasks, and decide how to decorate or furnish common areas.

Make an investment in things important to you to avoid conflict. For example, buy a mini fridge for the bedroom if you dislike someone else helping themselves to your drinks or snacks. Keep noise-canceling headphones on hand for the occasions when the roommate has noisy guests.

Roommates have become a necessity for many people. One of the easiest ways to make the relationship easier is to live in a comfortable environment. At Meadowdale Apartments , we offer clean and maintained units for all our tenants. A safe and satisfying residence keeps people much more comfortable. Contact us to schedule a walk-through.

5 Compelling Reasons to Rent After a Divorce

websitebuilder@thryv.com — Tue, 04 Jun 2019 06:59:52 GMT

After going through a divorce, you will face many potentially difficult decisions. One of these is whether to stay in the family home or not. While many people automatically assume that the best choice is, indeed, to keep the house and live in it — to avoid unnecessary change — you have good reasons to consider letting go.

What are the upsides to selling the matrimonial home and opting to rent instead? Here are five of the biggest game-changers.

1. You Create Options

Owning a home means that you're tied to that one location. If you'd previously enjoyed a good marriage and a happy home life, this may be all you needed. But now, you don't have that support at home — so you may want to build ties elsewhere or even return to family ties.

Selling and renting doesn't mean you have to live in a rental forever, but it does allow you to explore the new options that your divorce has opened up. You may, for instance, have a desire to return to your hometown but then discover that it wasn't the right call after all. You might consider moving for brighter career options or even to a better school system for your kids.

2. You Control Expenses

Divorce doesn't just mean that you sever a personal relationship. It also means your income changes significantly. Two-income couples or divorced persons who relied on their spouse for the family income may now find that their means of living is smaller — or even practically nonexistent. And in a vain attempt to hold onto the family home, they may spend their savings and even raid their retirement accounts.

To rent, on the other hand, means that you don't have to budget for the high costs of home ownership: homeowners insurance, property taxes, repairs, landscaping work, and maintenance. Rent is often a fixed expense, so you likely won’t have any surprises on a month-to-month basis. As you get your income equilibrium back, you may return to home ownership, but you'll be in a better financial place.

3. You Free Up Cash

Homes are large assets — often the largest assets that most people will ever own. But it's not a liquid asset, meaning that you can't withdraw and use the money tied up in the house. After a divorce, you have new priorities, such as preparing for retirement on just one income. To meet these new goals, could you make better use of the equity currently hidden in your house value?

Talk with a financial advisor about the best use of your home value, including such things as paying off debts from the marriage, buying out a spouse's interests, investing in taxable or nontaxable portfolios, and returning to school.

4. You Move On

Could you and your children be better served by moving on from the past? This is a personal decision that only the family can make. When you plan for the future, though, you may find it easier to start a new chapter and help your kids to do the same. Your life is different post-divorce, and excellent reasons exist to making a large change that acknowledges that fact.

5. You Reduce Stress

Will your house cause stress in your life? Aside from the financial responsibilities of owning a home, you must also deal with arranging for its care and repairs as well as keeping it clean and orderly. Does this idea please you or give you second thoughts? Also, many matrimonial homes are quite large, so consider whether you want to live in an oversize space by yourself.

Apartment or rental-unit living frees up many of these concerns and allows you to focus on the right things — your emotional health and your family's recovery from a traumatic time.

You have, clearly, many advantages to starting this new part of your life with a clean slate in your living arrangements. At Meadowdale Apartments , we offer a variety of rental options so that you can find your new home no matter how long or short your adjustment may be. Call today to learn more.

4 Dos and Don'ts When Furnishing Your New Apartment

websitebuilder@thryv.com — Fri, 03 May 2019 20:24:06 GMT

You have just rented a new apartment and want to begin fresh. Furnishing your new space needn't be a complicated task but rather an exciting phase of apartment living. You might begin slowly by decorating with a few pieces at a time. Alternatively, you may prefer to furnish your apartment completely at once. In any case, take a look at a few pointers to help you furnish your new apartment home.

1. DO Consider the Essentials

When furnishing your new apartment home from scratch, start by sitting down and creating a list of your must-have pieces. You'll need a place to eat of course, which means a dining room set or dinette. If the kitchen space allows for it, you might also place a small pub table set in the area. A folding table is another good idea, which you can hide away when not in use.

Next, consider the size of the living room. You might want to choose a sofa and possibly a matching love seat. An additional chair or two for seating is also a must.

Whether you have chosen a one- or two-bedroom unit, you'll need bedroom furniture as part of your essentials. Obviously, the bed with bed frame and headboard will be at the top of the list. You will also need furniture to place your clothing and personal items, so a dresser is a safe bet. A night stand or night table is also a must. Place a table tamp on it to save space, as an alternative to using a floor lamp.

2. DON'T Ignore the Closets

While you may have ample closet space in your new apartment, you should still use the space you have wisely. Designate the closets for clothing and accessories instead of odds and ends.

Concentrate on maximizing your closet space. Make use of the upper closet shelves if applicable. Closet shelves are perfect for storing hats, shoes, and accessories. For larger closets, a do-it-yourself clothing rack might expand your options.

You can also use cubbies to store items; place the cubbies on the floor of the closet or next to the closet.

3. DO Choose Multi-Functional Furniture

Choosing furniture that serves a multi-purpose can maximize your living space. How about a sleeper sofa? When not being used for extra sleeping accommodations, the sleeper becomes a compact sofa. When you have a guest over, simply unfold the sofa to provide an extra bed.

Also, choose furniture that offers storage options. For example, a bed with underneath storage space is a good idea. Or look for an ottoman with storage area so that it offers more than a place to rest your feet. If you must have a floor lamp, choose one with accompanying shelves for storage.

A drop-leaf console table is great for storage as needed and for dining when unfolded. Lastly, get a stepladder that features storage options and seating in one. Get creative and shop around. Multi-functional furniture saves space for small apartments.

4. DON'T Forget the Walls

If your apartment has a large wall, keep the look clean and uncluttered. Placing several small pictures on the wall could make the room appear too muddled or untidy. By placing one large piece of art on the wall instead, you'll create an open and airy look that offers an illusion of a larger area.

For the bathroom or bedroom, you might consider removable wallpaper. Such a choice will not damage the walls, and you can easily change or remove it as desired.

As a final thought, always get your landlord's approval before you alter or make changes in your apartment.

Finished College? 5 Steps to Move Out on Your Own

websitebuilder@thryv.com — Tue, 02 Apr 2019 02:44:40 GMT

Graduating college is one of the first milestones that most young Americans strive for as an adult. But once you've accomplished that and you have your diploma in your hand, what should your next move be? Moving back in with your parents is often a step backward, but are you ready to be on your own? Here are a few steps to get you where you want to be in life.

1. Write Down a Plan

You probably have an idea of what you want to do over the next few years, but take the time to write it down. How will you use your degree? What are your career goals over the next 2, 5, and 10 years? What are you doing now to earn money? How long do you want to spend preparing to move out? Do you plan to live in the local area, or will you have to move farther away? Will you get a roommate?

Share your timeline with family and friends so everyone is on the same page and can support your goals. Then, hang your plan up to help you stay on track.

2. Build Life Skills

At college, you no doubt started taking care of your own life and needs. If you lived away from home, you may have learned to do some basic cooking and cleaning, to do your laundry, and to get yourself to places on time. If you still need to work on any of these life skills, do it now. Being independent at managing your daily life gives you confidence that you're ready to head out from the nest.

3. Shop Around

Apartment hunting can be time-consuming and confusing, so start early. To find a place that you'll enjoy and can afford, you first need to see what the apartment selection is like in the area where you want to live. What are you looking for in a place to live? How does that compare with the available apartments? And what can you really afford?

Create a priority list as you shop around for options. Start with the most necessary amenities or included items, such as laundry facilities or access to public transportation. Add some wants, like an onsite gym or covered parking, as you go. Number your priorities and decide which are must-have are which are would-like.

4. Create a Budget

Budgeting is hard, and it's not always fun. But it's vital if you want to get out on your own. Graduating students today often have to balance all the needs of living alone — paying for rent, utilities, and food — with student loan payments that are higher than ever before. Keeping a tight rein on your money is how you get that all done.

Any budget made before moving out will be approximate, though, so tweak it as you exchange expectations with real expenses.

5. Prepare for Move-In

Once you find an apartment you like, you'll need a few things in order to be approved and move in. First, you'll generally need a good credit score. Check your credit history and follow the instructions to dispute anything incorrect. If your score is low, take steps, such as paying down debt, to boost it.

You'll also need to save up some money before you start paying for all your expenses on your own. Add up the move-in costs, including the security deposit and the first month's rent, and make that number your first target savings goal. Once you have that set aside, add in more to build a financial buffer for things like starting utility costs and the cost of some basic furnishings. Try to keep a minimal amount, perhaps $1,000, for emergencies as well.

Are you ready to move on with the next chapter in your life? Moving out is a big step, but at Meadowdale Apartments , we strive to make it simple and enjoyable. Check out our apartments and amenities today, and then call to learn more.