A bed bug infestation is no laughing matter. In many states, it’s standard for landlords to add a lease clause holding tenants responsible for bed bugs that come into the apartment during their rental period. As a renter, you need to know how to protect yourself from pest-related liability. That’s why you should learn to spot these five signs of bed bugs, and what to do about a suspected bed bug problem in your “new” apartment. Read the rest of this entry »

You need cheap apartment snacks to keep you going, but instant ramen is so 2005! Leave the styrofoam cup days behind with these non-perishable snacks and convenient foods that’ll get you through another week of avoiding the grocery store. Read the rest of this entry »

Beige carpet. White walls. White doors. Your new apartment is a blank slate. Too blank. You want to give your new place some personality, but painting the walls may not be an option if you’re a renter. Don’t let the beige wall blues get to you though. Check out these 6 easy decor ideas that won’t damage your apartment walls. Read the rest of this entry »

Apartment? Loft? Flat? Condo? Duplex? What do all those terms mean anyway? And you said rent is HOW MUCH? Bring on the face palm emoji. 

When you just want a place to live that won’t cost you an arm and a leg, the different housing terms and buzzwords can start to run together in your mind. But, the type of apartment you rent can make a difference in how much rent you’ll pay, the amount of space you’ll have, and other key living aspects. Learn how these four different types of apartments vary to inform your choices and housing search. Read the rest of this entry »

Monthly rent and utility dues are a standard part of any lease agreement. However, when you read your lease’s fine print, you might find some not-so-standard clauses governing what you can and can’t do in your apartment. As a rent-paying tenant, you don’t love the idea of a landlord telling you how to live your life, and you may even wonder if it’s legal. In most cases, it is. Read up on some surprising examples of things and activities your landlord can ban. Read the rest of this entry »

It’s September, which means fall is upon us. The air is getting cooler, pumpkins are getting spicier, and the trees are getting orange-ier? But changing leaves aren’t the only things you’re watching. That’s right; it’s football season! And if you’re planning on throwing a watch party, there are a few things you should keep in mind to make sure your party is a touchdown. Read the rest of this entry »

A grill. A comfy hammock. A string of lights. All of the above!

When you moved in, you had big plans for your little apartment balcony, but in the hustle and bustle of life, those plans got shoved to the bottom of your to-do list. But hey—there’s no better time than the present! Use this step-by-step guide to turn your apartment balcony ideas into a cozy hangout for reading, writing, socializing, and maybe even a candlelit dinner. Read the rest of this entry »

Your lease says no grilling, but your heart says summer cookout. What do you do? Is it really summer without burgers or BBQ? These no-grill summer dinner ideas make it easy to listen to your heart without breaking your lease. You might even forget you’re cooking without a grill! Read the rest of this entry »

Looking forward to bidding your dorm roomie’s smelly shoes goodbye—forever? Can’t wait for a bathroom countertop free of someone else’s clutter? If you’re making the big move from a college dorm to an off-campus apartment, there’s plenty to look forward to. Read the rest of this entry »

So you just signed a new lease, huh? Congratulations! Renting an apartment equals freedom. You’re free from landscaping responsibilities, maintenance costs, and mortgage payments! Read the rest of this entry »