Wednesday, November 18, 2009

Remodeling Bathroom

Bathroom remodeling either fills you with thoughts of clean, gleaming white surfaces or of a half-assembled disaster. Maybe both images are true.

Let's follow the steps of a bathroom remodeling project.

1. How Far Do You Want to Go?

* Surface Alterations. At the easy end of the scale, you may like the general layout and size of the bathroom and the structure supporting the bathroom (joists, walls, etc.) are sound. The mantra of the surface-level bathroom remodeler is "cover, not replace." There is no shame at all in wanting to do a surface-level bathroom remodel.

* Change Layout. More difficult: the structural elements are still fine and you want to make surface alterations, but you also want to change the layout around.

* Complete Tear-Out/Remodel. Now we're at the end of the difficult scale. You want to do all of the above, but 50 years of accumulated moisture has rotted away the joists and wall studs, and the window is falling out.

At this point, too, consider the general timetable for bathroom remodeling and decide if this is something you think you want to go through.



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. Central NJ Apartments

Thursday, October 22, 2009

Finding an Apartment in New Brunswick

If your are looking for apartments in New Jersey go to Raritan Crossing. They are in a very nice apartment complex in 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. Central NJ Apartments

Wednesday, September 23, 2009

Apartment Shopping

When looking for an apartment for rent many of us concentrate on amenities, features, and price which are all very important things to focus on, but often one extremely important factor is overlooked. Location! It's a HUGE deal when you are apartment shopping. Don't overlook it.
The biggest factor in why location is important is saving yourself on GAS. There is no doubt that gas prices can get outrageous from time to time, so having a place that is somewhat close to your work or school is can end up saving yourself some ducats.
The average 15-20 minute commuter can spend a big chunk of their pay in gas per week going to and from work alone. If you live in an apartment within biking or walking distance from school or work, not only do you have the opportunity to be physically fit just from you commute, but you also have the opportunity to save yourself some hard earned cash.
Another thing to factor in when considering location is where the nearest grocery store or shopping center is. If you are having to drive 20 miles to pick up a 6 pack, you are not doing yourself any justice.
Not just that, but what about all of the other little things? Getting your prescriptions refilled, visiting your bank, getting Mittens to the vet, or filling up your tank. All of these things and whatever else you need to do to get things done daily, should factor into your decision on location.
You should also think about the places that you like to hang out. It won't make a lot of sense to hang out at your favorite spot downtown if you live out in the burbs. Pick a spot that is close to your favorite hangout.
Then you have the whereabouts of your significant others or your friends and family. You should always take into account their locations in relation to yours. You'd hate to get an apartment that is close to work yet is 50 miles from your girlfriend who you drive to see several times a week. And if you are that far...she'll never come see you either. So make sure and pick a happy medium.
It's very important to weigh all of these location factors in when deciding on the best place for you. If you can find a place that is within a mile from all of these places...YOU ARE SET!!! Good luck and if you have any questions...let us know...We have answers.
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. Central NJ Apartments

Monday, August 17, 2009

Renting a place of your own

We all value our independence, and part of being your own person is making a break for it and getting a place of your own.
It might sound easy, but there's more to running your own flat or house than getting the keys and paying the odd bill. If you're planning on renting somewhere there are loads of things you have to do before you even start packing.
Cash flowThe first thing you need to do is work out if you'll be able to afford it. You might be earning your own money but there are probably loads of things that get paid for in the parental home without you even noticing. Ask your parents, carer or a friend who has their own place to give you an idea on how much it costs to run a home.
Renting means bills: there's your rent, water, electricity, gas and you may have to pay council tax. By having a clear idea of what you'll have to pay out, you'll be better prepared when the time comes to move into your own place. There's a chance you'll be entitled to certain benefits. Your nearest Jobcentre Plus can help you find out more.
Going it aloneIf you do want to move out, you'll need to be sure that you don't mind your own company. Can you face the possibility of not having anyone around while you eat your dinner or veg out in front of the TV? You could think about possibly sharing with a mate. Not only could this cut costs, but it will also mean you're never totally on your own.
Beware of being the first among your mates to get their own place, though. They might see it as a perfect excuse to party all night, every night, which could leave your home a mess! Setting down some ground rules before you let them come round will make them realise that you're the boss.
Look aroundIf you're sure you want to go for it, the next thing you have to do is find somewhere suitable to live. Accommodation in less, erm, charming areas might be cheaper, but there's no point having your own place if you're too scared to venture out of your front door. Take your parents or a trusted friend or relative with you when you're looking round places and don't make snap decisions.
If you're using a letting agent to find a place, the quality of flat or house is likely to be better, but ask them about any hidden costs there might be if you accept somewhere recommended by them; they don't generally do it for free.
Staying putDon't be afraid to admit that you're not ready to make it on your own just yet. Getting your own place isn't easy and there are many who take the plunge too early just because they feel it's something they should be doing or because others they know are.
If it's a case of being more self-sufficient, speak to your parent or carer about ways in which you can be more independent. Perhaps they can entrust you with cooking your own meals or responsibility for paying a bill. They might be glad of the help!
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. Central NJ Apartments.

Wednesday, July 22, 2009

Essential Things to Be Considered Before Buying Home:
People around the world feel proud to own a house as you aren’t bound by any rules of the landlord and it’s an asset too.
Merits of Owning A Home:
There are several merits of owning a home. The obvious one is that the home is yours; you can make all type of alterations and arrangements. You can add any kind of shelves, woodworks, put a garden on the roof top etc.The next benefit that is to be considered is that some of your monthly mortgage payment comeback in the form of equity but The rent you pay while renting a house never comes back. The other obvious advantage is that the home is your asset and you can sell or place it under some mortgage and make use of that money to meet your expenses. If the home is bought under some kind of a loan then it would provide tax benefits.
Demerits of Owning A Home:
The major problem with owning a home is that you have to take care of maintenance activities. Incase of a rented house you would you would just make a call to the landlord and he would solve the problem for you and this wont be the case incase of an own house.
The next thing to consider is the money that you may loose on the house; it’s an extreme case and may happen if the real estate prices go down alarmingly. The final demerit is that since home is a long term proposition you can’t keep changing your location as you may have done in a rented house.
Affordability:
The next thing to be considered while buying a home is to decide how much to invest in it as it may alter your spending pattern. A guideline is to use the debt-income-ratio. It shouldn’t exceed 36% and your mortgage debt should be less than 28% of one’s monthly income.This is done as follows multiply your gross income by .36, the resultant value should be the maximum debt that you could afford per month. Irrespective of the guidelines the thing to consider is the level debt that you may be comfortable with and this comfort level varies from person to person.
Choosing an Appropriate Mortgage:
After deciding upon how much to invest in home the next thing to do is to determine what type of mortgage to choose. There are many mortgage plans available and choosing an apt mortgage plan is necessary as choosing a wrong one may cost you a lot of dollars on interest.There are basically two type of mortgage plans fixed and adjustable interest rate loans.
Incase of fixed interest rates you can be sure about the amount that you need to pay each month for your loan. The benefit with fixed plan is that you may feel safe even when the interest rates go up but when the interest rates go down you may feel bad.The thing with variable interest rates is that you may have to sacrifice some stability about the amount to be paid every month. It would be beneficial when the interest rates come down which is very unlikely in the current scenario.
The Down Payment:
In any mortgage some amount of down payment has to be made. In traditional system a down payment of 20% of total amount to be borrowed should be paid and the advantage of this 20% is that one need not worry about Private Mortgage Insurance amount that you may have to pay if the down payment percentage goes below 20%.
These are some of the basic things to be considered while buying a home and every person must make sure that he has applied these principles while buying a home.
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. Central NJ Apartments

Monday, July 6, 2009

Can I get an overview of landlord tenant laws and apartment basics?

Knowing the landlord tenant laws in the state you will be living is an important thing to look into prior to actually securing an apartment, especially if this will be your first rental. The laws in every state have been enacted to lay the groundwork for an informed relationship between the two parties and can vary from place to place. Many of these details are spelled out in a document called a lease.
Landlords will often protect their rights by doing things such as a credit check and contacting former landlords or references given by the potential renter. This can help them to make sure a person will be a responsible tenant.
Those who are looking for an apartment will want to carefully evaluate the lease agreement to make certain they understand what will be expected of them, and that they can fulfill those obligations. The time to investigate tenant rights and responsibilities is before signing the lease and moving into a particular property.
Most landlords are already aware of the laws that outline the rental relationship in their state. Those looking to rent an apartment may want to check out the laws on the Internet before beginning their search in earnest, especially if they are a new arrival to the area. 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. Central NJ Apartments.

Friday, June 26, 2009

Things to Consider When Renting and Apartment

Renting an apartment can be stressful, especially if time and money are limited. It’s not uncommon for people to leap before they look just to relieve the pressure of apartment hunting. Selecting a place to live is important. If you’re unhappy with your home, it can have a significant negative impact on your life.
So, once you’ve determined the place is in your price range, take a pad and pen to make notes as you consider the following:
What’s the neighborhood like? If you’re new to the area, ask about the nearest grocery store, bank, video store, etc. Walk around to see what kind of activity is in the area. Ask about transportation routes and how safe the neighborhood is.
Who are the neighbors? You’re not asking the landlord to judge, you’re asking for facts. Do they have kids? Pets? Are they college students or elderly couples? This will help you decide if you’ll enjoy living there. This isn’t as much of a concern if you’re living in a mid or high rise. However, if you are renting an apartment in house, it may set off your allergies if the people below you have a dog.
How is the place heated and cooled? This is of particular concern if you are responsible for paying the utilities. Do you have control over heating and/or air conditioning levels? Also be sure to find out average monthly costs of water and hydro.
Are there enough windows ? Light and temperature can dramatically affect how much you enjoy your home. If you find lack of light depressing, you may want to avoid basements or apartments with tiny windows. If there is a long wall facing north and you’re in a colder climate, find out how well it is insulated to protect yourself from northern winds.
How much closet space is there? You 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. 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. Central NJ Apartments

Tuesday, June 16, 2009

Burlar Prevention

Sensible Burglary Prevention Measures Start with the Basics(ARA) - It is always a busy season for burglars. According to FBI statistics, the greatest numbers of home burglaries occur in July, with August a close second. In 2004, for instance, burglars entered a house, apartment or condominium every 14.7 seconds, making off with valuables worth an average of $1,607 each time.Art Noparstak, marketing manager for Intermatic, Inc. and spokesperson for the national Burglary Prevention Council, an organization dedicated to the prevention of residential burglaries, states, "Sixty-two percent of all burglaries occur in daylight hours, and almost a third are made without forced entry. Don't make the burglar's job too easy."To prevent burglaries, Noparstak offers the following advice:* Keep all doors, windows and garage doors closed and securely fastened. Doors should have deadbolt locks with at least a 1" throw and reinforced strike plate with 3" screws. All windows should have window locks.* Cut up cartons for TVs, computers, stereos, etc. Tie the pieces together so a burglar going through the garbage does not see any of your highly valuable household items.* Do not leave ladders or tools lying around outside.* Install a wide-angle door viewer (peephole) in your front door so you can see who is at the door.* Don't put your name and residential address on your key ring. If you happen to lose it, a dishonest person could gain entry to your home.* Use timers on lights, radios and TVs. Set light timers to turn on and off and random times of the day and night, making your residence appear occupied.* Keep shrubbery trimmed away from entrances and walkways.* When service or delivery people come to your door, ask for ID. If you're still not sure, call the police first and report the stranger. Next, call the company to confirm.* Make a home inventory list, complete with photos or video. Engrave items with your ID to help the police identify your belongings. Store this list in a safety deposit box.* Post signs in conspicuous locations that clearly indicate that the premises are protected by a burglar alarm."Consumers should also consider installing a burglar alarm around their home," says Noparstak. "It is a myth that burglar alarms need to be high-tech and cost thousands of dollars. There are many affordable options available, including window, door and table top alarms." 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. Central NJ Apartments

Tuesday, June 9, 2009

Priorites of Apartment Searching

Renting an apartment, although not as big a commitment as buying a home, is an investment of time and money. The following are a few considerations in finding and leasing an apartment.
The first priority of real estate is location, location, and location. The same can be said of apartment homes. Consider the distance to work, school or other responsibilities. If you ride public transportation, convenience to bus or train stops must be considered.
There are many sources that lead to apartments to rent. First are the want ads, which have general categories such as furnished and unfurnished, plus condos and town homes for rent in some areas. The convenience of the want ads includes general description and (in most cases) a phone number for the initial inquiry. On the down side, by the time an ad is published in the paper, the apartment could be long gone.
Another source is an apartment locator service. These days, most of the apartment services are paid by the landlord or apartment management company, so be aware that the service is inclined to serve who pays them and may not have the renters best interest in mind. If you do use a locator service, do some footwork on your own to find out what the average rent is in that area and what other tenants are paying, so that you are not overcharged.
The third source is word of mouth and other unconventional sources. Some recommend reading the obituaries to find vacancies but this can be time consuming and yield unexpected results, as many people in mourning do not appreciate apartment hunters ringing their bell. However, cold calling the management of an apartment building that looks attractive to find out if there have been recent vacancies could be profitable.
Once you find a place that looks good, there are several questions to ask about the grounds. Is it a gated community? What amenities such as pool, hot tub, gym, and Laundromat. These items can save money on items like gym memberships and can be factored in the decision process.
Next most places will have applicants fill out a form and ask for reference as well as run a credit check on the prospective tenant.
Next is the lease, or rental agreement itself. Does the apartment allow pets and visitors? How much security is required and what are the terms to have it refunded at the end of the lease. Who is responsible for damages, water leaks etc. When is the rent due (what day each month) and what late charges occur if the rent is late.
Questions about utilities are also important. Who controls the heat and air conditioning? How well insulated is the apartment. Who pays for fuel, electric, gas, trash pickup, waste, water and hot water. How much are your neighbors paying for an average bill during the winter and summer months. All of these factors will determine your total monthly costs.
Last but not least, before signing a lease, it is wise to have it reviewed by a lawyer. Be particularly careful if this is a sub let agree ment to make sure your rights are protected. If you are signing with a roommate, have it spelled out who is responsible for what. If you cannot afford a lawyer, try a paralegal or real estate professional. If this is also not an option the main rule is to read all documents over carefully, make sure landlord and tenant(s) sign and keep a copy. 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. Central NJ Apartments

Monday, June 1, 2009

Renting an apartment can be stressful

Renting an apartment can be stressful, especially if time and money are limited. It’s not uncommon for people to leap before they look just to relieve the pressure of apartment hunting. Selecting a place to live is important. If you’re unhappy with your home, it can have a significant negative impact on your life.So, once you’ve determined the place is in your price range, take a pad and pen to make notes as you consider the following:What’s the neighborhood like? If you’re new to the area, ask about the nearest grocery store, bank, video store, etc. Walk around to see what kind of activity is in the area. Ask about transportation routes and how safe the neighborhood is.Who are the neighbors? You’re not asking the landlord to judge, you’re asking for facts. Do they have kids? Pets? Are they college students or elderly couples? This will help you decide if you’ll enjoy living there. This isn’t as much of a concern if you’re living in a mid or high rise. However, if you are renting an apartment in house, it may set off your allergies if the people below you have a dog.How is the place heated and cooled? This is of particular concern if you are responsible for paying the utilities. Do you have control over heating and/or air conditioning levels? Also be sure to find out average monthly costs of water and hydro.Are there enough windows and which direction(s) do they face? Light and temperature can dramatically affect how much you enjoy your home. If you find lack of light depressing, you may want to avoid basements or apartments with tiny windows. If there is a long wall facing north and you’re in a colder climate, find out how well it is insulated to protect yourself from northern winds.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. Central NJ Apartments.

Wednesday, May 27, 2009

When you are renting an apartment

When you are renting an apartment, you might want to consider the other rentals that are available to you. Whether you need temporary help, can't afford to purchase outright or are just looking for the least amount of hassle, here are some apartment renting 101 tips to think about during your time as a tenant:Storage for your things. Whether you want to rent some space in your parent's basement or go for a storage facility, it can be a good solution if you simply have too much stuff.Gardening equipment. This is a great choice for those living in an apartment that want to do some work in their yard but don't want the hassle of buying and storing equipment.A car, bicycle or scooter. Renting a car, bicycle or scooter can be a great temporary solution if you are waiting for your vehicle to ship or haven't yet saved up the money to buy something. You might even be able to split the cost with a roommate.Furniture. If your goods are being shipped cross-country or from overseas you might want to get a few items in the apartment to make life easier in the meantime.Electronics. You can rent items such as a DVD player if you are still saving for your own. Baby furniture. If you don't want to buy this outright and give away later or store, this can be a great option. 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. Central NJ Apartments.

Tuesday, May 19, 2009

Get Results When You Need Something from Your Landlord

You want attention and results when dealing with your landlord about an issue that arises during your tenancy. But not all landlords are professional or courteous enough to respond promptly. Sometimes, it can be tough just to get your landlord to return your phone call.
Many types of problems can arise during your lease term that may require the landlord to take action. For example, an appliance may break, the heating may stop working, you may need to end your lease early, there may be a pest invasion in your apartment, or a neighbor may be causing trouble. If you find yourself needing your landlord's attention, the last thing you want is to wait weeks for a response.
When you need to contact your landlord, here are some communication tips that will help ensure you get the prompt attention you need:
Follow your landlord's own procedure. First, check if your landlord has a procedure or a preferred method of contact when problems arise. If she does, then following this procedure is your best bet to get a prompt response. Plus, if your landlord is slow to respond to your question or complaint, when you try again you can point out you're following the landlord's own directions.
Your landlord may, for instance, direct tenants to call a super or a management company when most issues arise. For specific problems, your landlord may prefer that you deal directly with a certain professional. For example, your landlord might ask that you call her plumber's 24-hour emergency number directly when plumbing problems arise.
Look for special contact directions first in your lease. This information may also appear posted in an area such as the entryway to your building or near mailboxes. Landlords may also communicate this information to tenants through a memo or in a newsletter, if your building has one. If you're about to sign or renew your lease, ask whom you should contact about problems, if you don't already know the answer.
Put your requests and complaints in writing. Chances are, your first attempt to contact your landlord about an issue will be by phone. If you've tried twice to get through without success, start keeping a log. Note the date, time, method and outcome of your communication attempts. If you send letters or e-mails, keep a printout or copy with your log.
Documenting your efforts to contact your landlord will help strengthen your case if you need to go to court. It will also help you remember when and how you first tried to contact your landlord about a problem, in case you need to reference it in a subsequent letter.
Point out what's in it for your landlord. For many people, pointing out a benefit of responding or complying -- or a risk of not doing so -- helps inspire them to take action. For example, if a neighbor is creating a serious nuisance and your landlord isn't returning your calls, consider sending a letter noting that you may need to withhold rent if the landlord doesn't respond and lets the nuisance continue. Or, if bulbs break and this causes the lighting to be inadequate outside part of your building, point out the danger -- that it's just a matter of time until someone tips and falls or becomes the victim of a crime.
Be persistent. Don't give up after just a couple of phone calls. If the person who takes your call tells you that someone else will call you back, ask when you should call again if you don't hear back from that person. This helps ensure the person will take your call seriously, and it lets the landlord's office know that you're not going away until you speak to the right person and you get the matter resolved.
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. Central NJ Apartments.

Thursday, May 14, 2009

Rent Apartment or Buy Mobile Home and Resell?

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.
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. Central NJ Apartments

Monday, May 4, 2009

General Guidelines

Whether you're a first-time renter or an experienced apartment hunter, it's worth taking the time to think through what's important to you in an apartment and plan your search with those priorities in mind. Here are some things to consider when planning your next move:
1. Consider the areas where you would like to live
What is the crime rate in those areas? If you have school-age children - what rating does the school system have in that area? Is the area convenient to shopping, services, health and recreation facilities? 2. Make a list of your top housing priorities
Do you need an apartment that accepts pets? Do you need extra parking spaces? Do you need to be on the ground floor? What amenities are important to you - swimming pool, recreation or fitness room, tennis courts? What about laundry facilities? 3. Evaluate the property
What is the condition of the buildings? Are the grounds well maintained, plants trimmed and neat? Is the landscaping healthy and green or dying? Are windows, steps, and railings safe or broken and dangerous? Check out the property at night. Are parking areas and pathways well lit? What about stairways and halls? 4. Check out the security of the property
Does the building have a security service? If so, what hours is the guard on duty? Does the building have controlled access? If so, are the exterior security gates and doors kept closed? Do individual units have secure door and window locks? 5. Talk to the neighbors
It may take a little courage, but it is worth knocking on a few doors to ask residents whether they are satisfied with the building and the management's responsiveness to repair needs and concerns. See our section titled "Good Questions to Ask" 6. Ask about amenities
Who is allowed to used amenities like swimming pools, recreation and fitness rooms, tennis courts? What hours are they open? Is there additional fees charged to use those facilities? 7. Ask about Utilities
Does the owner or tenant pay the water bill? Are any utilities, such as gas and electric, included in the rent? Do units have individual thermostats to control heat and air conditioning? 8. Examine the lease
How much notice must you give before moving at the end of the lease term? Can the rent be increased? If so, by how much and how often? Are pets allowed? What provisions cover your security deposit and end of lease cleaning costs? What is the responsibility of tenants for wear or damage to property? What is the penalty for breaking a lease? 9. Be prepared! Collect information to present to landlords and leasing agents before beginning your search. Include:
Credit Report Application Pay stubs/tax returns Reference
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. Central NJ Apartments

Monday, April 27, 2009

Sweet-talk a friend, or a dependable stranger

Subletting your apartment is a viable option, if you can find someone trustworthy to do so. Subletting is generally legal unless specifically prohibited in your apartment contract, but it’s probably a good idea to notify your landlord of your subletting plans regardless. Don’t try to stealthily sublet unless you’re sure you’ll succeed. Your landlord is unlikely to appreciate the duty of housing a new, unknown (and unapproved) tenant on his or her property. The main issue with subletting is that your name remains on the lease and you are still responsible for paying rent and for any damages that occur in the apartment—so it’s not really “breaking” lease per se, more like finding a cheap way to skedaddle. If you can create a subletting agreement with an upstanding member of society that you think will actually come through and pay you, great. Your subletter pays you, you pay the landlord; everyone’s happy. Be careful, though—because you’re still responsible for the condition of the apartment at the end of your lease term, you’ll need to cautiously consider your choice of subletters. You probably don’t want to pick your friend’s cousin’s brother’s buddy Thrash as a subletter, no matter what a nice guy he seems to be on your first meeting.
We’re seeing that getting out of your lease can be rough. The main lesson to take away from this article is that you should consider provisions for getting out before you get in. Investigate the apartment thoroughly, ask questions, and above all get it in writing. Your promised swimming pool is just a pipe dream unless you have a signed agreement proving your landlord agreed to provide you with chlorinated bliss. Know your apartment and your lease agreement before you sign, and things will work out better for everyone involved.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. Central NJ Apartments.

Monday, April 20, 2009

How to Break a Lease

Your apartment at “Buena Vista Village” looks out on a junkyard, is infested with roaches, your next-door neighbors are running a meth lab, your upstairs neighbor is a professional tap-dancer, your carpeting still smells like the urine of the previous tenant’s cats (which she definitely wasn’t allowed to have), your car has been broken into three times in the past month, and there are bullet holes in one wall of the complex that haven’t been covered up in the whole time you’ve been there.
With a living situation like that, you really want to break your lease now, and you now wonder why you ever signed it in the first place. Or maybe your apartment isn’t all that bad, but you recently got transferred to a different state for your job, and you’ve got to get out of Dodge right away in order to keep up your obligations with your company. Whatever your reason, you want to break your lease—even though you may have only a vague idea of what the terms of the lease actually were. In order to get out of your lease in the least painful way possible, you’ll probably need to do a lot of research and documentation and even more persuading. This article will help you with both.
First and foremost, you need to get some legal advice tailored to your individual situation and lease contract. If you don’t have or can’t afford your own lawyer, get in touch with your local legal aid office and contact tenants’ rights organizations. Attorneys can be expensive, but being sued by your landlord for breaking your lease could be much more costly. If you don’t want to pay the rest of the rent that you’ve committed to shell out by signing the lease, you’d better get some sound advice so you don’t end up paying more than you had to in assorted late fees or other conditions stated in obscure parts of your lease. Tenants’ rights organizations are experienced in representing tenants who want to break their lease, and they’ve likely seen almost every situation imaginable—as well as a good number of pretty unimaginable situations.
The legal aid you acquire may tell you there’s not much to be done. You entered into a legal agreement of your own accord, after all, and you knew—or should have taken pains to investigate—the physical condition of the apartment and grounds and the nature of the available amenities before signing the lease. For this reason, claims about noise problems or facilities shortcomings are generally unlikely to work well unless you can thoroughly document the existence and severity of the problems, your attempts to have them resolved, and your landlord’s failure to do so. The vague complaint of “too much noise” is probably useless; you knew (or should have known) the noise level of the apartment complex when you moved in. For example, why move in to a rowdy complex that caters to hard-partying college students if you start work at 5 in the morning? Your landlord is only responsible for providing basic amenities and ensuring your “reasonable enjoyment” of your rental unit. The definition of reasonable varies wildly from person to person, and even if your demands seem reasonable to you, they might not seem so to your landlord—or to a judge in court.
1. Find an easy out
Once you line up some legal resources, investigate the terms your lease to see if there’s any clause that provides you with an opportunity to break lease early. Perhaps you can get out by giving two months’ notice or by finding someone else to rent the place in your stead. These are viable options that you should carefully consider. If your lease itself doesn’t point to any easy outs, the best approach is probably to find something wrong with the apartment that’s impeding your own personal well-being and hasn’t been fixed by your landlord despite repeated and well-documented requests. You’ll need significant documentation of such an issue, of course, so don’t just claim the chipped paint is chipping away at your psyche and head out the door. You might feel saner in another apartment, but you’ll still be paying rent for your old one. Requirements vary by state, but in many situations you’ll need to prove that you repeatedly notified the owner of the apartment (not necessarily the management—be sure you know who to get in touch with) via certified mail with return receipt requested and provided ample time for him or her to fix the situation cited. For this reason, repair issues may not be the best way to get out of your lease fast—you may just end up successfully getting the repairs done instead of successfully getting out of your apartment.
2. Find something wrong
Likewise, if particular amenities were promised to you upon move-in but have never surfaced (or do not work), their absence is only a factor if you can document your landlord’s claims to provide. Your landlord is legally obligated to provide only what’s in the lease; unless the lease promised specific amenities, you’re not likely to get far by complaining about the absence of such features. Landlords are allowed to change their minds; tenants, sadly, are not (not about keeping the lease, at least). Even if you were promised a swimming pool by next summer and they haven’t cleared the ground for one by mid-June, the lack of the pool is only significant if you can prove its presence was guaranteed in a legally binding way. Don’t expect casual conversations to hold up in court—focus instead on obtaining and understanding written agreements from the beginning, rather than after the fact.
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. Central NJ Apartments

Monday, April 6, 2009

What to Expect Your First Time Around

© Wendy Waid Jul 9, 2000

Moving into an apartment of your own is not only an exciting opportunity, but it can be a regretful and even hateful experience if you don't know what is going on. By being prepared, you can find the best place for your needs at a rate you can afford.When looking for a complex, avoid busy streets which are always backed-up during rush hour and which remain noisy at all hours of the night. Avoid locations near working train tracks and stations since occasionally the roads will become blocked or the train will sound its siren in the middle of the night. Avoid complexes with broken or missing security gates, poorly kept grounds, dirty lawns, lack of parking facilities, and obvious low maintenance. Definitely avoid places with green pools.
Typically, you want to find something near your work or school so that the drive home will be short and easy. Complexes located near major shopping centers usually cost more. Prioritize your needs: convenient grocery store, local post office, local gas station, more residential than commercial, close shopping centers, nearby bus station or stops. Older neighborhoods are cheaper but not necessarily safer. Look into security or at least getting deadbolt locks.
When you've narrowed your complex search to about five or so, start calling each complex about the unit you are interested in. Use this checklist to guide you through the information you'll need. We'll assume you want a one-bedroom, but you can easily substitute any unit you want.
Checklist of Questions to Ask the Leasing Agent:
How many one-bedroom units are currently have available? How much are the one-bedroom units? What is the square footage for each of those? Are they upstairs or downstairs? Is one located near the pool? Clubhouse? Entrance? How much is the security deposit? How much is the pet deposit? Are there any security devices or a security gate? How much is gate remote deposit? What kinds of leases are provided? Six-month? One-year? What other amenities are provided? Are there any local employer discounts? (If you work locally) Are there any moving specials or discounts? Is there washer/dryer provided? Hookups? Laundry Room? Is there 24-hour maintenance? After you get all your information, compare the prices and benefits for each complex. Start with the best and closest one and schedule an appointment with the complex's leasing agent. When you arrive for your appointment, don't be surprised if suddenly all the units you wanted are sold out. That's a method most agents use to get you to come to the complex and look at the more expensive units. Insist that you only are interested in the pre-selected units or at the pre-selected price and refuse to be conned into a higher rent. $40 extra a month becomes $480 extra a year on top of all the other expenses.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. Central NJ Apartments. After a day of hard work you can relax in your luxury rental apartment and buy undergarments for yourself or your loved one online here. You can check out the women’s clothing undergarment blogs and shapewear here, here, here and here. For shapewear and it’s a great place to buy women’s undergarments