Decorating Tricks to Make a Small Space Look Larger

Lots of people live in a small home, a small room, or just a small space. Some people live in a small apartment because that's all they can afford, and they're grateful for it. Some people live in a small apartment or home because they're tired of taking care of a larger place and want to "downsize."
Others just don't want a large home. Small is beautiful! And easy, and practical, too!
But no matter what your reason for living in a small space, you'll undoubtedly have to make some compromises in your decorating, get really organized, and make some adjustments to your lifestyle in order to make everything fit and not feel cramped.
If you're looking for a cozy, intimate space, you're in luck. By using soft, snuggly upholstered pieces, dark, warm tones, and dramatic lighting, your tiny corner can become a wonderful private space.
But if you really feel the need to stretch out in your small space, you can make some decorating changes to make the area look and feel larger without moving any walls! With color, furniture arranging, and interesting lighting, your space won't feel so cramped.
See if some of our tips will work for your small space.
Clear Out the Clutter
There's nothing that makes a small space feel cramped more than having too much stuff. Work out ways to get collections out of view, organized behind doors, table skirts, or on shelves. With things neatly arranged and out of sight, the space that is in view will feel orderly and open.
Open the Way
With furniture and accessories blocking the view into a room and out to open spaces, a room will look cramped. By moving furniture out and away from walkways, you'll open up the space and make it feel larger. You can also choose short pieces of furniture like an ottoman, an armless, open chair, or a low table, and place large, tall pieces along a wall rather than out in the open space. If you can see the floor, the room will look larger.
Chooser Soft, Light Hues
Whereas dark, warm colors make a space feel cozy and intimate, light, cool colors make a space feel open and airy. For optimum effect, select soft tones of blues and greens.
Use a Monochromatic Color Scheme
Choose colors that are in the same color family and use tone-on-tone woven upholstery fabrics, textured wall finishes, delicate tonal drapery fabrics. Cool colors and delicate warm colors on most surfaces give the room a more open look.
Coordinate Wall and Furniture Colors
Contrasting colors tend to break up a space. Pieces of furniture are less interrupting and tend to blend with the space if they're colored to match the wall color

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4 Tips on Making Your New Neighborhood Work for You

It’s tempting to rent an apartment based just on the square footage and rent. But you’re not going to just sit in your apartment every night and weekend. So, before you move into a new apartment, though, make sure the surrounding neighborhood or community suits your needs.
Check out the After Hours Transportation:. Of course everyone thinks about their work commute. But make sure that you’re conveniently situated for safe, convenient transportation to other places you like to visit, whether that’s the beach or your sister’s home. Whether you’re expecting to use the New York City subway or drive LA’s freeways, check out your transportation routes in advance Where’s the Community Spirit? Some neighborhoods enjoy long-established traditions such as a Halloween parade, block parties, or summer outdoor concert series. Contact the block association, local paper, or local merchants association to find out what your new neighborhood has to offer—and find out how to get involved, too. After all, if you move into your new apartment in September, you might not realize that there’s Christmas caroling or a New Year’s Eve street party in December, or a free community swim in July. Finding Pet-and-Child-Friendly Places. It’s wonderful to have neighbors who can pitch in if you’re in a crunch. If you are a single parent, check out the parent networks by visiting the playgrounds, the schools, the after school programs. Or, if you own a dog, you might want to find out whether there is a dog run, an organized group of dog-.lovers in your new area. Find Your Fellow Hobbyist. Make sure you can indulge in your favorite hobbies or activities close to home. If you love to cook, is there a farmer’s market or gourmet food shop nearby? If you’re a tennis player, cyclist, or marathoner, is there a place nearby where you can pick up a game of tennis, bike, or run a few miles, and meet other runners? If group knitting or tutoring school kids are your passion, make sure there’s someplace convenient where you can indulge yourself. 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

Financial Requirements

Financial Requirements and What to Bring on Your Apartment Search In order to rent an apartment, you will be asked to complete an application, by your prospective landlord. You may also be required to pay between $50-$200 for credit reports and/or application fees. Landlords want to see evidence of steady income and good credit.
Financial Requirements - Most landlords require that the prospective tenant have an income equal to 40-45 times the monthly rent in annual salary (combined income is used for roommates). You and your roommate will need to have all of your income verification paperwork readily available upon application for an apartment. If you are a full time student or do not meet all the financial requirements, most landlords will require a lease co-signer or guarantor. A guarantor is an individual, typically a family member, who lives in the U.S., preferably in New York, New Jersey, or Connecticut. Guarantors are asked to disclose detailed financial information and have a credit report run on them as part of the approval process. The guarantor's income needs to be at least 75 times the monthly rent and they will also need to submit the paperwork listed below.
Funds - When the landlord approves your apartment application, be prepared to pay the first month's rent and the security deposit upon lease signing. Most landlords require that these funds be paid in the form of separate certified checks or money orders. Landlords will not accept personal checks or credit cards. An additional certified check or money order will be required at the time of lease signing to pay the broker's fee, if applicable. Necessary Documents - Bring the following items with you when you start looking for apartments: Letter from your current employer stating your salary or from a CPA if you are a freelance worker or a business owner First two pages of last year's tax return Most recent bank statement(s), bank account numbers and credit card numbers Most recent pay stub(s) Names, addresses and phone numbers of previous landlords Names, addresses and phone numbers of personal and business references Photo I.D. such as driver's license or passport
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Don't Overpay for Rent

On my post warning against overpaying on rent, James poses this question:Is it better to rent an apartment or buy a manufactured home? I found a good location where they are selling a 2 bedroom manufactured home for $170K. The mortgage calculator says, for a no downpayment for 30 years at 6.12% interest, I pay $1,032.39 monthly.Today, Im renting a studio at $1,000 a month. So I thought would the mobile home be better? I mean in 3 years, I would have paid out 36,000 (more if the rent goes up). That money goes away. But I buy that mobile home, I can sell it in 3 years for a super discounted deal, say, 80,000. I would not be only be able to regain the 36,000 but also would have made money.First, I think you’re getting too exotic by thinking about saving money by purchasing a mobile home and reselling it, recouping some of the equity and thus paying out less in rent. It’s certainly a very interesting decision and analysis but ultimately I think your assumptions are going to be your undoing on this one.If all your assumptions go through, that you can purchase the mobile home and resell it at the stated prices, it sounds like your plan will work. Your assumptions, however, are very difficult to support and I am clearly not qualified to give you an advice on that. All I know is that there is a social stigma associated with mobile homes and I have no experience selling one, either first hand or anecdotally. What I do know is that you’ll have to put that mobile home somewhere and generally mobile home parks charge some sort of land usage fee that you didn’t figure into your calculation. You also have closing costs and selling costs that you haven’t factored into your equation which may make the decision less financially attractive. Then again, your extra low price of $80k may have accounted for all of this in its fudge factor, who knows.All that being said, I go back to the beginning where I said this is probably making it too complicated and potentially putting yourself in a bad spot, especially if you experience difficulty selling it and have on your hands a depreciating asset that you can’t sell. Would I do this? Probably not. I don’t like committing myself to debt larger than my fist unless it’s a pretty sure thing and I don’t think your trade off necessarily is. It’s definitely an interesting question though.Anyone else care to weigh in?I’ve always seen renting as “temporary” and buy as permanent. So the two years I spent renting in the Baltimore, MD area, I hardly ever took any time to decorate the place and I tried to pay as little as possible. From my point of view, because it was temporary, not actually mine, and something whose cost I wanted to reduce as little as possible, it made no sense for me to pay more than the average rent in the area or even spend money on decorating it. Now, I didn’t pick the absolute cheapest rent (though I had a roommate and am fairly certain I was paying a pretty good price for rent) but I was pretty close to it and I did very little upkeep outside of vacuuming. As the saying goes, who washes a rental car?Now, I don’t entirely agree with the idea that renting is “throwing your money away,” as many homebuying proponents espouse, but I do see it merely as an expense that should be reduced to as little as reasonably possible. The reason why it’s not throwing your money away is because the housing market has always been difficult to predict, though the trends were always pointing up in the long run as they are even now, and because a house isn’t always a winning proposition even if the value goes up. You’re throwing a lot of money away in interest payments (a small part of which you get back), you’re throwing a lot of money away in maintenance, and you’re throwing a lot of money away in taxes, insurance, etc - all of which are not concerns (though they’re integrated into your rent price) for a renter (I bring these up in the Devil’s Advocate post Rent Forever, Don’t Buy A Home).So, when friends of mine talk about how they can get this awesome apartment with all these incredible amenities for the low low price of something like a thousand dollars per person, I wonder to myself why they would pay so much for rent when cheaper options, though with fewer amenities, exist. Granted, part of this is in perception, some people like to rent in nicer areas with great amenities and are willing to pay that price, I certainly would pay a higher price for a nicer area (from a crime, convenience perspective, etc. within reason); but sometimes the numbers are exorbitant - I know people paying at least twice what I paid in rent!Are you the stingy renter like me? What are your thoughts? Or are you on the other side, willing to spend the money for a really nice place, please share your perspective!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

Finances

Even in the best of times, changing apartments can be stressful; if the economic future looks murky, moving can be downright nervewracking. But the more information you have about your financial situation, the easier it will be to move without breaking your budget.
Here are some things you can do to feel comfortable when you sign the lease for your new apartment.
Credit Matters First, your ability to rent is going to hinge on your credit report. Most apartment complexes will access your credit report before offering you a lease (and charge you a small fee when they do). Mostly they're looking for proof that you don't walk away from debts.
To make sure that the information on your credit report is accurate, go to AnnualCreditReport.com and request a free copy. There are three bureaus that keep credit reports (Equifax, TransUnion, and Experian) and what shows up on one may not be on the other two; you can get one free report from each bureau each year. You can also buy additional copies.
Closely related to your credit report is your credit score. The company that calculates credit scores, Fair Isaac, will sell you that information or allow you to calculate an estimation The three bureaus also each calculate their own scores in-house. Suffice to say that higher is better, and that credit scores are based on information accumulated over time; so ignore any offers from companies to "clean up" your credit score-they'll just cost you more money.
Debt It is highly unlikely that having debt will cost you an apartment. Paying down or avoiding debt, however, will be easier if you can keep your housing costs down to a third or less of your monthly bills. Anything more than that and you will be, as Harvard University's Joint Center for Housing Studies puts it, "moderately cost burdened."
Deposits and Fees When you're looking at paying the rent on a new place, don't forget to estimate utilities and factor in the security deposit. While you should be able to get your security deposit back when you move out (assuming you haven't trashed the place), that's a sum that won't be in your bank account, that can be equal to a month's rent or more.
Some areas may require you to pay a broker's fee (New Yorkers, this means you, unfortunately), and if you have a pet, you may have to pay an additional fee or deposit. These fees might take an apartment from affordable to stretching your budget.
Let's Make a Deal When you've found a place you like, see if you can't negotiate a better deal. For example, could you get a lower monthly rent if you're willing to sign a longer lease? Some apartment complexes will refuse to negotiate point-blank; others might be more flexible. It will depend on the management structure of your complex.
If you can negotiate, be polite and don't take it personally if you don't make headway. Hopefully your apartment will already be well within your means, and any deals you can strike will just be icing on the cake.
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The Rise of the Panama Apartment Rental Industry

With a progression from the late 1990’s into early 2000, the Republic of Panama began to realize it’s potential for tourism and real estate as viable economically sustainable industries. Up until that point, Panama had relied, unswervingly albeit, on trade, banking and agriculture: but with the rush of a new century and timely changes in international investment and travel patterns, Panamanians found themselves sitting on a proverbial goldmine.
The first real thrust was the real estate boom which anchored itself in Panama City and the rural eco-town of Boquete. This boom came to be symbolized by radical changes in skylines, giant increases in building materials and labor, as well as a need to draw people to the isthmus.
Enter the resulting tourism roar, characterized by the nation’s tourism board (IPAT), spending millions of dollars throughout the world to promote Panama as a tropical vacation destination. This campaign saw TV commercials, magazine ads, and an overall buzz about a Panama, which so few people even knew.
The original goal in Panama, as was in similar destinations like Costa Rica and Mexico, was to use tourism to drive real estate sales. But with the investment sector already so well underway in 2007, tourists found themselves arriving in Panama to an oversupply of real estate and an undersupply of hotels, especially in the capital city.
The obvious way to cope with this imbalance was to utilize that which Panama City had plenty of (condominiums) and use them to fill the void (hotel rooms). As a result a number of property management companies arose, offering both short and long term stays to tourists in apartments.
Fully furnished apartments were welcomed warmly by tourists, who truthfully preferred living like a local as opposed to the generic hotel room they’d become accustomed to over the years. Condo hotspots like Punta Pacifica, Avenida Balboa, El Cangrejo, and Casco Viejo (the old quarter) began to see clients flock to their product, offering maid service, cable TV, wireless internet, and full kitchens: all the luxuries of a hotel but more space and more privacy.
In 2008, a record number of new hotels were announced to fill the supposed void. But many tourists found themselves liking too much the lifestyle that Panama apartments for rent provided. Further, businessmen and businesswomen in town for weeks to months at a time, decided to stick with the model of rental apartments, thus keeping the industry healthy and alive.
What the future will bring to Panama no one knows. But over the past decade, trends and voids have seemed to even themselves out impressively, allowing the now-booming tourism industry to do what it does best: show off a beautiful country.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

Decorating your First Apartment

Planning and decorating your first apartment can be baffling and overwhelming. Apartment units or outdated brownstones are often small, sterile and architecturally deprived. But you can transform them into a personal, unique space. Don't be a confused, first-time decorator: Enjoy the adventure.Ponder these seven points as you transform your new apartment into a home that reflects your personality.
A similar style in each room will create flow and rhythm. Photo courtesy of IKEA.1. Develop a point of viewThe trick to creating a cohesive, put-together apartment is to decide what kind of "look" you want. Study magazines and watch home decorating shows to help you determine your favorite style. Rustic? Sleek and modern? Traditional? Country French? Once you find your preference, try to stick to your theme in every room. The similar style in each room will create flow and rhythm, which will give your place a sense of harmony and balance.But keep in mind you're not decorating a movie set—not every detail has to perfectly match. The odd accessory gives your place personality and should tell something about the person who dwells there—you. Avoid creating a "circus" atmosphere by using too many styles, too many different colors and too many patterns. Carrying your point of view throughout an apartment can also make your place seem larger.Select several colors and use them throughout your apartment. Photo courtesy of Collegiatemall.com.2. Choose a color schemeSelect three or four of your favorite colors, and use them throughout your apartment. If you use objects and fabrics of wildly different colors in each room, your place will seem choppy, broken up and visually distracting. For example, if you like blue and white, create a living room that features white walls, ivory slipcovered furniture, blue and white porcelain accents, and light-wood tables and shelves. In your bedroom, you could use a deeper blue and more of it via a patterned bedspread, pillows and curtains. Your kitchen could carry the theme by using blue and white checked curtains, while introducing yellow as an accent color.

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Some Cleaning Tips For Your Apartment

Every now and then I pick up some great tips and ideas to help give my place that clean, gleaming feel with as little stress as possible. Cleaning and keeping your apartment in tip-top guest shape can be an overwhelming thought when you are limited for time. Then, sometimes, no matter how hard you clean and try to keep your place in shape, it just gets out of shape again...
Here are a couple of tips to help you keep your place suited for visitors and keep them from going "Ewww."
Sparkling Mirrors - I used to get so frustrated that every time I cleaned my mirror, it always ended up spotty. Turns out I was doing a major thing wrong. I was spraying the mirror directly with Windex rather than on a clean lint-free cloth. To get sparkling results in your mirror cleaning spray commercial window cleaner on a lintless cloth like an old T-shirt and wipe down the mirror. Dry immediately with another clean lintless cloth to prevent streaking. Do this once every couple of weeks and you'll be sure to impress when your guests are glancing back at themselves.
Handle the Wobblemeister - Have a wobbly chair or table? Don't pull the restaurant fix and shove a folded napkin or sugar packets underneath. A much better solution is to re-use old corks. Just take an old wine cork, cut a horizontal slice, and place it underneath the leg of the chair or table that is doing the wobble-wobble.
Fresh Flowers - Don't receive flowers as often as you'd like? Let your man know he needs to pick up his game and then try extending the life of the ones you do get. A common solution for this is to make sure and cut the stem of the flower at an angle rather than straight across , but for even better results and a longer lasting flower, add a little bit of sugar and a small amount of an acidic ingredient like Sprite, which allows for better water absorption. But...you should still get on your man about stepping up his game...

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New Renter? Decorate Your New Home on a Budget

New Renter? Decorate Your New Home on a Budget!By Kathy Wilson
Perhaps you are just starting out in your first apartment rental home, or are starting over again and you don't know how to begin decorating your new place? Here are some easy, inexpensive, landlord friendly ideas for making a space your own!
Choose a feeling you want in your apartment or rental home. Since apartments and rentals tend to be smaller spaces, choosing a set of feelings as a theme to cover the whole space can both visually enlarge the space, and make the job much less complicated. Want a relaxed, calming atmosphere to unwind in? Choose neutrals or cool colors such as blues and greens. Want to express your colorful personality? Try using bright, energetic color combinations.
If you are in need of furniture, check out yard sales, classified ads, and even thrift shops to save yourself big bucks. Keep your choices to simple pieces that will blend with any décor, in the case of a move or a change of taste. You can make a simple platform bed with concrete cinder clocks and ¾ inch plywood or mdf board. Futon mattresses are less expensive then regular mattresses, and can offer good firm support.

Add Some Personality. Now that you have a few pieces of furniture and have chosen your color scheme to represent the feeling of the room, its time to add some personality! Throw pillows and throw blankets add color and charm, warm up the room, and disguise imperfect furniture.
Most renters can't paint the walls, so add color in creative ways. Pick up a collection of dollar store frames, spray paint them black for sophistication, then frame unusual things such as pretty pieces of fabric, cd covers, soup can labels, or even sheet music! Pick something you love, then display them as a grouping on the wall.
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One thing you may want to consider.....

One thing you may want to consider when moving into a new apartment is post office box rental. If you don't have a secure area for your mail, or want to have additional privacy, it can be the perfect solution. It can also be a simple solution, as it is easier than other things, such as renting a car. Here are some of the best reasons to get one:
It is inexpensive. Most post office boxes are not pricey and you can often opt to pay for your box in two separate installments rather than all at one time. You can retain a permanent address. If you move a good deal, this can save you a lot of hassle when it comes to getting your mail in a timely fashion. You have privacy. Only you can decide who gets to be on the box and have a key. It might be more convenient. You can opt to get a box that is close to your work so that you can receive your mail even before you return to the apartment. It is secure. Since the box is located in a building, you have the additional security of having eyes and ears around all of the time to make sure it is safe.
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Deck the walls

Deck the walls

When it comes to sprucing up a wall, paint is a cheap way to change a room. If you want to try a new color, Heeney suggests buying a pint of paint and brushing two coats on a section of the wall. That way you can buy more if you like the color, or just paint over it if you don't.

"Faux paint techniques," such as ragging, sponging or marbleizing, will give a room an expensive look without a lot of expense. It "gives the walls a lot of depth and interest," Heeney says.

Wallpaper costs more than paint, but it's generally inexpensive if it is used as a border in combination with paint, she says. Borders can easily be changed later.

"If someone has a living room with no interesting architectural elements, it's a good chance to invest in wallpaper," Heeney says. For other wall ideas, she suggests putting up synthetic molding, which can cost less than wood molding. Embossed wall covering is another option that can be painted to look like an expensive tin ceiling.

Inexpensive wall accessories can be a good way to get creative. Wood suggests looking at what you already have in your cupboard and closets. Neat cups, plates and family pictures can add a lot of flavor to a wall.

Taking old frames or old windows and putting mirrors in them is a wall decorating technique suggested by Mary Anne Young, author of the Complete Idiot's Guide to Home Decorating.

Also, try making a collage of small inexpensive framed prints or hanging a quilt or old shutters above the head of a bed that doesn't have a headboard.

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Thrift Stores and Junk Stores

Local charities, Goodwill, and the Salvation Army often provide thrift stores where people can bring their household discards and unneeded furniture to donate for tax deduction. The money raised from making sales goes into your local community to help those in need. It might take a few trips and perseverance, but if you're successful you'll really get a bargain. Enlist friends to be on the lookout, too
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How much closet space is there? You may not be a clotheshorse, but you still need a place to hang clothes and coats, put away shoes, linen and even the vacuum cleaner. Apartments in older houses tend to have few closets. Look to see how the current tenant (if there is one) manages.
How old is the wiring? Count how many outlets there are and if they have a grounding socket. Few outlets and/or two-pronged outlets often indicate older wiring, which can be a safety concern.
How present is the landlord? You want your landlord to be available when you need assistance, but it can be intrusive and uncomfortable to have him or her around all the time or coming by unannounced.
What are the policies and laws regarding pets? If a pet is already part of your family, make sure it is legal and acceptable to have pets. Otherwise, you may have to face a heartbreaking decision.
How big are the rooms? You can use a tape measure or pace off to get a good idea of the room dimensions. Also notice how much and what size of furniture the current tenants have. For example, if you have a queen-size bed, will it fit in the bedroom? Also note stairwells, hallways and doors. Maybe your couch will fit in the living room, but will you be able to get it in?
Is there parking? If you have a car you’ll want to know if parking is included in the rent, where it is and how safe it is.
Check for insects and rodents. Look in corners, behind furniture and along baseboards for any evidence of critters or repellent. If there are current tenants, they may be forthcoming with such information. And, if possible, visit the apartment at night and turn lights on in the bathroom and kitchen to look for any activity.
If the place is in need of repair or paint, find out what will be done before you move in. If the plaster is falling down and you have to repair it, you may find living there more expensive and annoying than you bargained for.
The key to successful apartment hunting is keeping your wits about you. Don’t just look at the surface of things and make assumptions. Review the notes you made as you viewed the apartment. Jot down your impressions as well. This will be your home. It is worth taking the time to plan ahead, ask questions and weigh pros and cons before signing on the dotted line
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Smokefree Apartments: A Smart Choice for Renters!

Smokefree Apartments: A Smart Choice for Renters!
If you value a smokefree living environment, you probably know that smokefree buildings help to protect you and your family’s health from the hazards associated with secondhand smoke. Did you know that a building that is smokefree is much less likely to catch fire? More and more renters are saying “YES!” to smokefree living and are making it an important factor in deciding where to live.
How do I find a no-smoking apartment building?
Here are some tips that will help you find an apartment that is just right for you!
Whenever you call or visit a property, ask these questions about smoking policies:
1. If the property is a smokefree property, find out if the policy applies to everyone, or just new tenants. Ask if the non-smoking rule covers indoor common areas, rental units, and any places outside.2. Ask if there are any tenants who currently smoke inside or out, and where they smoke. If they are smoking anywhere in the building, and there is shared ventilation, it is likely that secondhand smoke will get into your unit. If they smoke outside near your windows or doors, it could also drift inside your unit.3. Ask about enforcement. Does the landlord check to make sure no one is smoking? How would the landlord respond if you made a complaint about a smoking neighbor? If a tenant or their guest is smoking, what would the landlord do about it?4. Are signs posted to make visitors aware of the no-smoking rule?5. Did the previous tenant smoke? If so, what did the landlord do to clean the apartment? Restoration companies strongly recommend that after a smoker moves out, landlords should remove and replace things like carpeting and curtains, and clean all appliances, bath and lighting fixtures, tub surrounds, bath vanities and all door and window openings.
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You Know You Need a Roomate When...

You Know You Need a Roomate When...You come home wanting to talk about your day to someone. There are people who like coming home to a quiet apartment. And there are those who become depressed at the thought. If you hate coming home to an empty apartment, then you may need a roommate. Just make sure you find a roommate you're compatible with.
You have no money to yourself or to put in savings after paying off rent, utilities and basic living needs such as food and transportation. Roommates help you save money. Sometimes, rent is cheaper with a roommate. Also, roommates split the cost of cable television, utilities and home supplies.
You hate cooking dinner for one. Find yourself cooking a platter of lasagna and freezing it for weeks as you slowly finish it off? Maybe you yearn for a buddy to help with the cooking, cleaning and, of course, eating.
You like having friends who know what you look like before you put your face on. Roommates have a special bond, because you've seen each other when sick, tired, crabby and sans make-up or hair gel.
You have a dog and need help walking it. Just kidding. I threw that one in as a joke. But, if you do have a dog, it would be nice if your roommates shared the responsibilities of taking it outside. It's also a good idea to share pet safety concerns with your roommates.
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

Leases

Leases

Leases are important for clarification of the responsibilities of the landlord and tenant. If you don't have a lease, the landlord could ask you to leave or raise your rent on short notice. In addition, factors, such as when your rent is due, if pets are allowed and who is responsible for maintenance need to be clear. The type of lease you will be asked to sign can vary with the type of apartment and building in which it is located. OCHA has samples of different leases. Any changes to the standard lease are usually included in a separate lease rider. Leases are for one or two years and generally begin on the 1st or the 15th of the month.
Typically, the apartment will be unfurnished and will be located in a rental building that is owned by the landlord. Some apartments may be protected by rent regulations. A rent-regulated apartment is subject to limits on the amount that owners can raise the rent for vacant apartments and renewals of existing leases. Tenants in rent-regulated apartments have the right to renew the lease provided they’re in compliance with all lease terms and conditions. Rent-regulated tenants have the right to sublease the apartment with the landlord's permission.
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.

Should the art fit the room or the room fit the art?

Should the art fit the room or the room fit the art?
If you feel strongly about a particular work of art, you should buy the art you love and then find a place to put it. But you may find that when you get the art home and place it on a wall or pedestal, it doesn’t work with its surroundings. By not “working,” I mean the art looks out of place in the room. Placing art in the wrong surroundings takes away from its beauty and impact.
What should you do if you bring a painting home and it clashes with its environment? First, hang the painting in various places in your home, trying it out on different walls. It may look great in a place you hadn’t planned on hanging it. If you can’t find a place where the art looks its best, you may need to make some changes in the room, such as moving furniture or taking down patterned wallpaper and repainting in a neutral color. The changes will be worth making in order to enjoy the art you love.
Sometimes the right lighting is the key to showing art at its best. You may find that placing a picture light above a painting or directing track lighting on it is all the art needs to exhibit its brilliance. If you place a work of art in direct sunlight, however, be sure it won’t be affected by the ultraviolet light. Pigments such as watercolor, pencil and pastel are especially prone to fading. Be sure to frame delicate art under UV protected glass or acrylic.
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

Vacation Safety Tips for Your Home

Vacation Safety Tips for Your HomeHow to Protect Your House While You Are Away© Elizabeth Nolan
Jul 6, 2008
Do your summer plans include a vacation away from home this year? Before you leave, be sure to also plan for keeping your home safe while you are away.
The last thing you want to worry about while you are away on a much needed vacation is your home. Statistics show that the number of home invasions increase during the summer months, when many people are away. Here are some tips you can follow to protect your home and to give the impression that you have never left.
Give the Impression Someone is at HomeCancel your mail and newspaper. Mail and newspapers piling up will be noticed. Filling out a simple form with the post office and calling the newspaper circulation department can put a hold on delivery until your return.????
Postpone parcel deliveries. If you are expecting a package, contact the sender to postpone the delivery until you return. If there is a large box on your front steps for a few days, it is only inviting a potential burglar to investigate its contents and realize you are not at home
Imitate everyday habits. Use timers on your lights or leave some window shades down to give the impression that someone is at home. If you normally have a car parked in your driveway, ask a neighbor to park their car there.
Keep your lawn mowed. The lawn will grow while you are away and this can signal anyone driving by your home that you are not there to take care of it. Hire someone to mow it for you if you will be away for an extended period of time.

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.

Don't Let Your Move Stress You Out

Don't Let Your Move Stress You Out - Five Simple Steps to Make it Easier
(ARA) - According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the weeks between early May and Labor Day weekend mark the busiest time of year to move. It's estimated that more than 21 million Americans will move this summer. Some moves will go smoother than others, and while there's no way to guarantee a problem-free experience, there are things you can do ahead of time to make the process easier.
"Anticipating tasks that may cause frustration and headaches on moving day is crucial. People want to enjoy settling into their new home, whether it's finding a dog sitter for moving day or connecting their cable services, planning ahead will guarantee less stress for the entire family," says Leslie Levine, a moving expert and author of "Will This Place Ever Feel Like Home?"
Levine, who has helped millions of people move, urges movers to avoid five common mistakes before packing things up and hitting the road.
1) Don't put off calling utility providers (electric, cable, gas, etc.) to schedule the disconnect date of your services. This can be done weeks before the move when you have more time. And now, connecting services at your new home couldn't be easier.
To set up your cable, high-speed Internet and phone, all you have to do is log on to www.cablemover.com and click on "find your cable company." Movers enter their new ZIP code and are directed to their new provider's Web site (where they will receive special moving offers). Customers can schedule their cable services, such as digital cable, high-speed Internet and phone service, or bundle all three in a package for potential cost savings. Movers can also access the free service by calling the toll-free Cable Movers Hotline (877-9TV-MOVE).
2) Don't forget to inform your insurance companies about the move. Coverage can vary from state to state and most insurance companies' provide up-to-date information on their Web sites.
3) Don't forget to pack a travel bag that can be easily accessed when you arrive at your new home. In preparation for a move, people tend to pack away essentials that are difficult to find following a hectic move-in day. Pack your bag as if you are going away for a weekend, include medications, a toothbrush, toothpaste, a change of clothes and other daily essentials.
4) Don't expect to get every picture and painting on the walls during the first week. Instead of cleaning or unpacking the first night in the new home, take a break, relax and watch a favorite program with cable On Demand. If the boxes just can't be left alone, check out a favorite DIY show for home improvement tips while working to make the new place feel like home.
5) Don't try to do everything alone. For big home improvement projects, hire a professional. Pick a few projects to do with the family and then hire someone to do the time-consuming projects like painting and hanging wallpaper.
"Any steps that can be taken to simplify a move are worth considering," adds Levine. "I recommend all movers do some advance planning to take the stress out of their move." 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

How to Outfit Well-Dressed DigsFurnishing your first apartment?

How to Outfit Well-Dressed DigsFurnishing your first apartment? Think small and versatile.By Amy Esbenshade Hebert From Kiplinger's Personal Finance magazine, May 2005
Brienne Collison needed a couch for her new apartment. So she headed for Craigslist.org, a popular starting point for twentysomethings hunting for apartments, roommates and affordable used furnishings. Collison, 24, found a stylish sofa that looked almost new and fit her budget, and she figured she had covered all the bases after measuring her apartment doorway to make sure the couch would fit.
But she neglected to get the dimensions of the service elevator. "My building is fairly old, and the elevators are very narrow," says Collison, who lives in Falls Church, Va. After struggling to carry the couch upstairs, she found that her measurements were slightly off and the sofa was about an inch too big to fit through the door. Collison ended up parking the couch at her boyfriend's apartment until she could sell it.
For first-time apartment dwellers, whose digs are often tiny and temporary, the keys to making a new place livable are to think small and versatile. Look for pieces that can do double duty -- they'll work now and can make the transition if you plan to move in a couple of years.
Tammy Schoppet, founder of Rental Decorating Digest (www.rentaldecorating.com), is a fan of storage ottomans, which can serve as footrests, tables or extra seating while concealing blankets or magazines inside. JCPenney's Storage Ottoman with Tabletop, for instance, sells for $150. If you have room for blankets but not overnight guests, Plow & Hearth (www.plowhearth.com) has an ottoman that opens into a bed ($200 plus $30 shipping).
To organize your clutter, look for a coffee table or side table with drawers, advises Jill Davis, an interior decorator in Geneva, Ill. For a wide selection of such pieces, as well as trunks designed to double as coffee tables and end tables, check out Home Decorators Collection 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.

How To Sign an Apartment Lease:

How To Sign an Apartment Lease: From Viewing the Apartment to Signing the LeaseBy Jennifer Lai, About.com
Lease Form You’ve found an apartment you love. Now what? Well, now you begin the process of signing the apartment lease, during which you must not let your desire for the apartment turn off all critical thinking faculties. You are about to part with a lot of money and sign a legally-binding document that is difficult to get out of, so remain focused during this last stretch by familiarizing yourself with how the lease signing works.
Difficulty: EasyTime Required: Anywhere from one day to a weekHere's How:Submit an apartment application. Not all landlords use apartment applications. Typically, only property management companies, who lose out if the apartment is taken off the market, require an apartment application.
Individual landlords most likely won’t have you submit an application.
Pay an application fee (if any). When submitting the application, you’ll also pay a non-refundable application fee (also known as the application deposit). If you decide not to sign the lease, the application fee will not be returned to you. If you do sign the lease, the fee will either be returned or go into your security deposit.
Give the landlord the okay to perform a credit check. The purpose of the credit check is to check out whether you pay your bills on time. The landlord will ask you to pay the amount to cover the cost of the credit check and ask for your social security number. Or you can submit a copy of your credit report, which you can obtain prior to looking for apartments. Please note that many landlords consider a tenant with no credit history to be just as undesirable as one with a bad history.
Give the landlord the necessary information to contact your previous landlords. In addition to checking your credit history, the landlord verifies that you are a reliable tenant by contacting previous landlords. If you want to expedite this process, you can contact them prior to looking at apartments and ask them to write you a reference letter. You can then present this to the landlord right away.
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

Can't find a place to put your recycling bins?

Can't find a place to put your recycling bins? Here's a simple guide on setting up a system of recycling bins in a small kitchen.
How many recycling bins do you need?Most recycling services want different recycling materials to be separated from each other. Designating a recycling bin for each material you want to recycle will save you lots of time sorting them.
Figure out how many recycling bins you need, one for each material you wish to recycle. I recommend one each for aluminum, plastic, glass, cardboard and newspapers.
Using Space-saving Stackable Recycling BinsStackable recycling bins are the answer to cramp kitchen space, because they use up vertical space, instead of spreading out like fungus.
If you cannot find stackable recycling bins at your local convenience store, you can buy them online. Buy Direct
Using Recycling Bins that Sit in Bottom CabinetsIf you're only recycling one or two materials, I recommend buying a pull-out recycing bin system. The bins sit on sliders, which are installed in a bottom cabinet, thus remaining out of sight. When you need to recycling something, simply pull the bins out for easy access. If you're only recycling one item, use the other bin for trash. Buy Direct 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

Length of Lease

Length of Lease
The quest to find an apartment can be both fun and stressful. There are so many exciting possibilities and as many potential obstacles. This article will guide you through the process, so you can find an apartment with confidence.
First, you must decide how long you will live in this space, which will dictate what kind of apartment to look for. Most leases require at least one year's commitment, so if this is too long for you, consider a sublet or a month-to-month apartment.
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.

Housewarming Gifts

Housewarming Gifts

One nice thing about housewarming gifts is that they don't need to be wrapped. Pull something together, put it in a gift bag or basket, and ring the doorbell.
If you're making a first visit to a family member's new home, you might have had a hand in helping with the move. If so, you might know exactly what they'll need in the new home. If they've moved from a large home to a smaller one, organization supplies might come in handy. But if they're moving from a small home to a larger one, a set of towels for the new extra bath might be practical.
We've come up with some ideas for both traditional gifts and new, fresh ideas. Choose what will best represent you, your friend, and your relationship. Then show up and enjoy a wonderful visit!
A gift for a housewarming gift for newlyweds is simple--just check out their bridal registry and fill in any holes.
Fresh PlantsA new home, even before the furniture is arranged and the drapes are up, looks more welcoming with a live, flowering plant. Plants are better than fresh cut flowers, as they live longer and don't need as much maintenance.
A Wreath for the DoorChoose a wreath for the season, for a holiday, or just in colors that will look pretty on the house. If you get one that will last through the years, include a wreath storage box, too.
A Gift of FoodThere's so much work involved in moving and setting up housekeeping, that anyone will welcome a casserole or full dinner to enjoy as a break from all the work. Something that will go into a microwave and onto paper plates (why not include them, along with plastic silverware?) will make the meal a breeze.

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

Renting an Apartment?

Renting an Apartment?
Make it feel like home with easy decoratingBy Diane Benson HarringtonLean artwork against your mantel or walls to prevent nail holes. Interior designed by Alan Nugent Photo courtesy of Decorating Den InteriorsIt's hard to get worked up about decorating an apartment that you don't own – but it's equally as difficult to live in surroundings that don't reflect your style."A lot of people make the mistake of thinking, 'I'm renting, so I'm not going to do anything to this space, because I'm eventually going to move.' And then they end up staying two, four, five years," says Anita Wiklem, who owns Wiklem Designs in Toronto. "Even if you stay somewhere two years, when you get home at the end of the day, if that place is to your liking, it makes such a difference in your psyche."So what do you do if you yearn for a personal touch but have to contend with a limited budget or landlord restrictions? Plenty.
A multihued rug brings color to a room when you cant paint your apartments walls. Photo courtesy of Pier 1 ImportsDealing with institutional trappings Perhaps the best thing about most apartments today is that the slate is blank – and usually neutral. Virtually anything you lay on top of this canvas will work."If you can't paint your walls or if you have an ugly rug, you can put color into your furnishings with a big, colorful rug or throw pillows or even accent lamps with colored or textured shades," says John Meaney, visual merchandising manager for Pier 1 Imports.Be sure to use a pad between your area rug and the apartment carpeting so the rug won't slide and the carpet won't suffer from color transfer.While most apartments already have mini blinds on the windows, some landlords allow you to add curtains as well. Simple side panels on a decorative rod can make a dramatic difference in a room by adding a jolt of color and personality. Weave your color choices throughout the apartment with pillows, throws or accessories. A white kitchen can come alive with a colorful teapot on the stove, some attractive dish towels and zesty countertop accessories, such as flour canisters and oversize salt shakers.If you can't make nail holes in walls, a large, framed mirrors you can lean against the wall will add far more personality than one attached to the inside of a bathroom door. Lean smaller pictures against a wall atop fireplace mantels, chest-height armoires or bookcases. Pier 1 Imports offers a handsome wooden easel you can set up in a corner or behind an angled sofa to display framed artwork. Consider making changes that you can easily reverse.Wiklem put new knobs on her kitchen cabinets and new lighting fixtures in the bathroom and foyer. She put the landlord's knobs and lights in storage, and will switch them back when she moves. She'll incorporate her own choices in her new home.If you simply must have color on the walls, Lauri Ward of Use-What-You-Have Interiors in New York City suggests creating simple rectangular frames with 1-x-2s from the lumberyard and attaching swaths of fabric with a staple gun. Lean three or five of these against the wall with a bit of space in between. Your fabric can be a solid, print or texture. When you move, Ward advises, use hinges to turn the panels into a folding screen, or remove the fabric and use to make pillows or other decorative touches.
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.

During the apartment walk-through…

During the apartment walk-through…
Do all the appliances work? Check all the appliances and sinks to be sure they are working properly. Are there insects or rodents present? If the current tenant is there ask them about the severity of the problem and what is being done to fix it. How old is the wiring? If there are very few outlets or if you see two-pronged switches, it probably is older wiring. This may be a convenience and safety issue. How much closet/storage space is there? Don’t underestimate how much space your belongings will take up. Are there enough windows to provide ample light for your taste and do they open and close properly? Are the rooms big enough to fit your furniture? Take a tape measure with to be sure. How do guests obtain entry and what type of security is in place? If there is an electronic system, test it out to make sure it works. Make sure that the apartment will be cleaned and have the paint touched up before you move in.
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.

Keeping Warm

Keeping Warm
Nothing is nicer than coming home to a warm apartment. But nothing is worse than getting the electric bill for all those warm, toasty winter days. Running the central heat or air conditioning unit is the number one cost of your electric bill. So now would be a good time to learn how to cut those costs and decrease those nasty bills.
Balancing the heat: You may have noticed already that some rooms and areas of your home gets warmer than other areas. This is the impact of air balancing. If you have a central heating unit (which most units have), the heat goes along some duct-pipes in the ceiling and through room vents into the room. To prevent heat from coming into the room, simply close the vent or close the path in the actual duct.
Rooms that you don’t use very often or closets should have their vents closed to prevent wasted heat loss. This will direct the heat to other more used rooms. If there is more heat blowing into those rooms then the heating unit does not have to work as hard or as long (and thereby saving you money).
If you live in a two-story or multi-story unit or an apartment with a loft, close the vents on the upper floors. As we all know, heat rises. The bottom level will warm up and eventually the heat will dissipate to the upper floor. As the heat from the bottom floor rises, the heating unit will not have to work extra-hard to heat the upper level.
Keep doors closed to rooms that do not need heat. As heat flows through a home, it moves into rooms with open doorways. This means it takes longer for the entire home to heat because the heat keeps spreading out or thinning out. If, however, some of the closets and bathrooms are closed, the heated air will move down the hall to the next room which needs more heat. Or, if you want those rooms to be heated, leave the doors open. Keeping doors open also increases the circulation throughout the entire house. It is good practice if you don’t have roommates.
Lower the Temperature: A good way to save money is simply to lower the thermostat. If you followed the above suggestions, you won’t need to run the heating unit on a high temperature to feel comfortable. The heat should be balanced and your entire home comfort-level should remain constant. It takes some trial-and-error to get a balanced home (and you will need to re-balance for the summer months when you run the air conditioning unit), but in the end it is worth it.

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.

How to Move to a New Apartment

How to Move to a New Apartment
Moving can be a fun and exciting adventure. But it can also be lots of work--not to mention very stressful. Here are some suggestions that might make your transition a little easier.

StepsGet boxes from grocery stores (or other stores) rather than buying them. Don't disregard the value of large plastic trash bags - just be careful not to throw them out!! Choose boxes in sizes that will be easy for one person to carry, just in case you find yourself moving most of it on your own. Start the moving process as soon as you can find time to. The more unessential items you can pack as early on as possible, the less you'll have to worry about when it gets down to the wire. Make sure that you wrap breakable items (dishes, knick-knacks, pictures, et cetera) in old newspaper, towels, bedsheets, even clothing. If you have a lot of books, pack a few in many boxes, rather than all in a few. Label your boxes as you pack - kitchen, living room, bath, etc. Also make a list of contents on each box, to make it easier to find certain things when unpacking. This will save you loads of time and grief when you arrive at your new place (and label BREAKABLES as such so your movers will know to be careful--hopefully they will be). Color-coding can be a good idea too. Just get colored stickers, and slap a red one on the box for kitchen, blue for bedroom, green for living room, etc. After you have securely packed all of your belongings... now you face the decision of hiring movers, and finding out who your real friends are or being a real friend (and saving $$$) and doing as much of it on your own as you can! (if you CAN afford it, hire a reputable, insured moving service listed with the BBB for the heavy stuff and transporting it all) (*save $ by doing your own packing!) GOOD LUCK & GET MOVING!!
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.

Rethink Your Rental

Rethink Your Rental

Make a rental space your own on a modest budget by creatively updating your current wares and adding a few new items to the bunch. Check our tips and inspiration below.Living RoomThink of your apartment as your own -- ask your landlord for permission to paint (offer to repaint when you leave), hang plenty of art, and install draperies. If wall color is off-limits, rethink the furnishings. Use large pieces, even in small spaces, to create interest in place of paint. Trying changing the shape of the room by placing a room divider in a corner -- it allows the eye to flow evenly across the room rather than interrupt it with abrupt corners.Apple green is stylish without being too trendy. Pair it with a neutral brown sofa -- this custom design boasts clean lines and didn't cost much more than a retail sofa. A $99 IKEA coffee table makes a modern statement (and adds precious storage) in the small space.It's the little things that make a white-box rental a home, such as adding graphic accent pillows for the couch and a rug to cover up standard apartment flooring. Even something as simple as placing a table lamp on top of a stack of books sends the message that the space belongs to you, not your landlord. If your living room must double as a home office, don't let the work space overpower the room. Opt for spacious filing cabinets topped with an inexpensive sheet of melamine for lots of storage space and minimal impact on the rest of the room. The lamp is a $10.95 thrift store find with a new shade.Looking for another deal? These floor-to-ceiling drapery panels are sewn from silk shantung found online for only $11 a yard.Keep office supplies from taking over your work area by storing them on a vintage tray. Adding personal trinkets affords you a moment's distraction while checking e-mail or paying bills.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.

When you call about the ad…

When you call about the ad…
Confirm all the claims made in the ad and clarify any sketchy statements. “Cozy outdoor space” could mean a cute little deck or a fire escape running down seven floors. Ask the owner/management company for exact descriptions. Ask for the total square footage of the apartment as well as the footage of each room. Make sure the rent is exactly what was listed and that the availability date matches your schedule. There’s no sense in wasting time viewing an apartment that isn’t going to be ready for three months if you’re ready to move next week. If you have any special needs, such as a dog that will be moving in with you or an allergy to a certain type of carpet, be sure your requirements can be met.
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.

When you call about the ad…

When you call about the ad…
Confirm all the claims made in the ad and clarify any sketchy statements. “Cozy outdoor space” could mean a cute little deck or a fire escape running down seven floors. Ask the owner/management company for exact descriptions. Ask for the total square footage of the apartment as well as the footage of each room. Make sure the rent is exactly what was listed and that the availability date matches your schedule. There’s no sense in wasting time viewing an apartment that isn’t going to be ready for three months if you’re ready to move next week. If you have any special needs, such as a dog that will be moving in with you or an allergy to a certain type of carpet, be sure your requirements can be met.
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.

Don't look up until you fix that overhead light fixture.

Don't look up until you fix that overhead light fixture.
Lighting is an inexpensive way to decorate and instantly improve the atmosphere of a rented space. First things first: Change out that hideous overhead light fixture that casts a stark, unattractive light on everything. Put up a chandelier, says Jeanie Engelbach, whose colorful apartment has been featured on HGTV's Small Space, Big Style. Engelbach recommends any fixture that expresses your own style. Another simple and effective little change: You can put every light on a dimmer says Ron Marvin, mini-space expert on HGTV's Small Space, Big Style. "No one wants to sit in that bright light when you are relaxing or entertaining. Just adding that dimmer is a small update with a huge impact."
Designer Mark McCauley, ASID, suggests that apartment dwellers use canister lamps on the floors to wash light up the walls. "Try different colored bulbs — in shades of blue, red, amber or green — to get the feeling of a colored wall without painting," he says.
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.

Click, Click, Move: How the Internet is Changing How We Move

Click, Click, Move: How the Internet is Changing How We Move
(ARA) - Moving season is upon us. According to the American Moving and Storage Association, half of all household moves take place between May and Labor Day. Overall, 43 million Americans move every year.
Planning a move can be time-consuming and nerve-wracking, but two things can help make the process go more smoothly: educating yourself through research, and working with a realtor you trust.
"In the last year, there has been an explosion of free real estate or rental information on the Internet," says Michael Yang, general manager, Yahoo! Real Estate. "More than ever before, potential buyers are better educated by access to home price estimates, comparable home sales, and satellite pictures of houses on the market and their neighborhoods. And the information is available without paying a penny."
Online research will help you determine price ranges for a particular neighborhood, view homes' proximity to local businesses, and get estimates and historical sales data for individual properties.
Yang points out that one of the most popular features on Yahoo! Real Estate is Schools Search. "Living near a good school is crucial for parents and anyone planning to start a family. But, it's also a good investment factor for any home buyer as houses in good school districts tend to sell faster and at higher prices than homes in other areas."
Once you're feeling smarter about your target neighborhood and price range, it's time to team up with a realtor. If you're well established in the area, ask friends and family for a recommendation.
If you're moving into a new area, consider turning to the Internet for help. The "Find A Realtor" service on Yahoo! Real Estate allows you to interview realtors anonymously by email before choosing the one that best fits your needs. You can compare the agents' experience and sales commissions as well as their proposals on how they would work with you.
Once you have found and closed on your new home, it also helps to look for ways to save money on moving. Shop around for the best deal on movers, either online or in the phone book. Once you have a few candidates in mind, ask to speak to references. When it comes to your precious belongings, a few extra steps never hurt. For those who prefer packing themselves, one tip is to find previously used boxes from grocery or wine shops. This is not only a cost-effective means of packing but is also eco-friendly. Consider it keeping both your bank balance and the world "greener."

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Rethink Your Rental

Rethink Your Rental Make a rental space your own on a modest budget by creatively updating your current wares and adding a few new items to the bunch. Check our tips and inspiration below.
Living Room
Think of your apartment as your own -- ask your landlord for permission to paint (offer to repaint when you leave), hang plenty of art, and install draperies. If wall color is off-limits, rethink the furnishings. Use large pieces, even in small spaces, to create interest in place of paint. Trying changing the shape of the room by placing a room divider in a corner -- it allows the eye to flow evenly across the room rather than interrupt it with abrupt corners.
Apple green is stylish without being too trendy. Pair it with a neutral brown sofa -- this custom design boasts clean lines and didn't cost much more than a retail sofa. A $99 IKEA coffee table makes a modern statement (and adds precious storage) in the small space.
It's the little things that make a white-box rental a home, such as adding graphic accent pillows for the couch and a rug to cover up standard apartment flooring. Even something as simple as placing a table lamp on top of a stack of books sends the message that the space belongs to you, not your landlord. If your living room must double as a home office, don't let the work space overpower the room. Opt for spacious filing cabinets topped with an inexpensive sheet of melamine for lots of storage space and minimal impact on the rest of the room. The lamp is a $10.95 thrift store find with a new shade.
Looking for another deal? These floor-to-ceiling drapery panels are sewn from silk shantung found online for only $11 a yard.
Keep office supplies from taking over your work area by storing them on a vintage tray. Adding personal trinkets affords you a moment's distraction while checking e-mail or paying bills.
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Dos and Don'ts of Dorm Decor

Dos and Don'ts of Dorm Decor Check out our firsthand knowledge of everything you must know about decorating your first dorm room.
By Kaelin Tripp
Buy RightDon't: Overpurchase for your dorm room. The room will be small, so buying everything you see may not be the best -- for your room or for your budget.
Do: Wait until you settle into your room to add the small accessories. While it's tempting to buy all the cool dorm frills, take your time to make those purchases. Plus, items will go on sale a couple weeks after school starts.
Pack Up WiselyDon't: Bring everything you own from home. Paring down your possessions, and your clothes, will make it easier to move into your new space.
Do: Bring the essentials. Remember, you are sharing a room with someone else so there isn't room for everything, especially when it comes to clothes. If you live close to school leave most of your winter clothes at home until Thanksgiving break. Then swap for your warm-weather wardrobe during spring break.
Avoid an Overly Matched LookDon't: Declare that you and your roommate must have everything matching. After all, you could have a new roommate next year, or next semester.
Do: Chat with your roommate before you head to school to choose a color scheme that suits both of your tastes. Then choose your own coordinating items. This makes it easy to incorporate your own personality into your part of the room. Choosing bold colors with large patterns will add life to the dull white walls of a dorm.
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Five Designer Secrets for Creating Fabulous Windows

Five Designer Secrets for Creating Fabulous Windows(ARA) - It's easy to see your windows in a whole new light with insights from a professional designer. With just a little bit of thought about the look you are trying to achieve, combined with the design savvy of window treatment experts, windows like those seen in the top design magazines are just days away.
To get you started, Smith+Noble, America's leading catalog and online retailer of custom window treatments, rugs and fabric décor, suggests following these five tips from top interior designer Michael Payne. Payne is a member of the American Society of Interior Designers whose weekly show, "Designing for the Sexes," can be seen on HGTV.
* Don't be afraid of color. Many people play it safe and select neutral window treatments. Yet, mixing two colorful window treatments is a simple way to inject energy and excitement into a room. Select tones from opposite sides of the color wheel -- for example, pair a golden honeycomb shade with deep aubergine velvet panels -- to brighten and add punch to your windows.
* Vary textures when mixing neutrals. If bright colors aren't what you are after, mixing subtle colors in wonderful textures can instantly bring elegance and ease to your rooms. For example, combining rich silk in an earthy bronze with delicate, sheer georgette in a creamy color results in a beautiful effect that goes with any décor. Woven reeds, grasses and bamboos used in Smith+Noble's Natural Roman shades perfectly complement tailored herringbone edge bindings.
* Use a corner to your advantage. In homes with wall space between two corner windows, use panels or draperies with one side stacking to the left, the other to the right. Panels meet in the corner for the dramatic look of one continuous window. In contemporary homes where windows meet without wall space in between, honeycomb shades are a wonderful solution. When closed, the windows appear as bold bands of color; when open, shades virtually disappear for an unobstructed view.
* Give small windows big impact. Don't be stumped by small or unattractive windows. One terrific way to make small windows appear larger and more dramatic is by using light-colored panels that start well above the window and puddle onto the floor. To enhance the width of a narrow window, specify panels significantly wider than the window and hold them open with tiebacks-the effect draws the eye outward. Then, build on the visual impact with details like ring tops, prominent wood poles, finials and brackets.
* Design in stages. If your dream windows are a little out of reach right now budget-wise, don't fret. Designing windows is an evolving process that doesn't have to be finished all at once. When you move into a home, privacy and light control are most important, so focus on installing functional blinds and shades that will be the foundation for your window treatment masterpieces later. Then, when time and budget allow, layer luxurious panels and draperies or add architectural details like cornices and sconces.
"Designing beautiful windows can seem intimidating, but it's really not," says Karin Miller, vice president of merchandising for Smith+Noble and member of the Color Marketing Group. "Smith+Noble has taken the hottest design trends and edited them into easy-to-work-with color palettes and fabric groupings. Whether you want the function of wood blinds or the luxury of silk draperies, Smith+Noble has the right design solution for you."
Smith+Noble, America's leading resource for custom home decorating solutions, offers innovative, high-quality window treatments, custom area rugs and fabric décor items that are well-priced and backed by superior customer service and support. The company is based in Corona, Calif.
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.