Bright ideas to cut your apartment’s light bill
Every day you make dozens of energy decisions in your rental — from leaving lights on to choosing the right bulb. While your landlord is likely responsible for the major systems (heating, cooling, insulation, maybe even major appliances), you can still take control of your lighting and knock down that portion of your light bill.…
Read MoreWhat is an online rental application? Everything renters should know
Renting an apartment today is easier than ever, thanks to technology. Gone are the days when you had to fill out long paper forms and deliver them in person. Now, most landlords and property managers use online rental applications, which let you apply for a rental from anywhere with just a few clicks. But what…
Read MoreThe great roommate sacrifice: 6 ways to divide rent (and Halloween candy) fairly
In every shared rental apartment, there’s at least one terrifying topic that can send chills down a renter’s spine. No, it’s not the ghost in the hallway. It’s the moment you and your roommates have to decide how to split rent. With rooms of different sizes, private bathrooms, and perks like balconies or better light, dividing…
Read MoreHow to resolve conflict with neighbors: Calm solutions that work
When you share walls, parking spots, and outdoor spaces in an apartment community, it’s almost impossible to avoid the occasional disagreement. Your neighbor’s music keeps you up late, their dog barks nonstop, or they park a little too close to your car. Whatever the reason, learning how to resolve conflicts with neighbors is a skill that…
Read MoreWhat renters should know about public transport in Atlanta
For renters moving to or already living in Atlanta, one question often comes up: Can you live here without a car? The answer is yes! Thanks to the growing network of public transport in Atlanta, getting around the city is easier than many expect. While Atlanta has a reputation for heavy traffic, public transportation provides…
Read MoreFrom spooky to savvy: How to handle lease clauses with confidence
Reading your first apartment lease? That massive stack of papers can be spookier than any ghost. Don’t worry. We’ll help you conquer the fine print, official language and those nitty-gritty details before you move in. Here’s the good news: Leases aren’t meant to scare you. They’re designed to protect both renters and landlords. The key…
Read More5 questions to ask before renting in Ann Arbor, MI (beyond “how much?”)
If you’re looking for apartments in Ann Arbor, MI, you’ve picked one of the most exciting places in the Midwest to call home. This city is consistently ranked as one of the best college towns in the U.S., thanks to the University of Michigan. On top of that, it offers a great mix of culture,…
Read MoreWhen is the best time to rent? Here are 5 advantages of renting in off-season
Looking for an apartment during the peak rental season can feel like a real struggle. When everyone’s searching at once, finding a place becomes more challenging, with rental apartments getting snapped up fast — sometimes within days. This is especially true in red-hot markets like Miami, Chicago and New York, where the competition for apartments is…
Read More9 fun, locals-recommended things to do in Philadelphia for students
Moving to Philly for school? If so, you’re about to become a part of one of the richest educational histories in the US! The city’s reputation as “America’s Greatest College Town” began in the 1700s with the founding of The University of Pennsylvania (formerly known as The Academy of Philadelphia). Other noteworthy historical universities include…
Read More9 neat things to do in Boston for new students as recommended by the locals
Founded in 1630, Boston is one of America’s oldest cities, playing a central role in the American Revolution as the site of the Boston Tea Party, the Boston Massacre, and Paul Revere’s famous ride. (As some of the locals say, in Boston, you don’t just study US History, you live in it!) The city also…
Read MoreMoving to Denver? Explore the best affordable neighborhoods to consider
Denver, a dynamic city nestled at the foot of the Rocky Mountains, offers a fantastic quality of life. However, like many large urban hubs, the cost of living can be a concern. On average, the cost of living in Denver is 4% higher than the Colorado average and 10% higher than the U.S. average. That…
Read MoreRental pre-qualification explained: What it is and how it can help you find an apartment faster
In competitive rental markets like Miami, Chicago or New York City, apartments disappear within days. If you’ve tried finding a place during peak season, you know how stressful that can be. Rental pre-qualification helps you stay one step ahead by showing landlords you’re ready to rent. It also helps you filter through apartments you’re more…
Read MoreBudget vs. standard utility billing: What works better for renters?
Apartment utility bills can make or break your budget. While rent is usually the highest expense, utilities like electricity, water, gas, or internet often fluctuate, catching renters off guard. That’s why understanding the difference between budget and standard utility billing is essential. Knowing how utilities are billed helps you plan spending, avoid surprises, and identify…
Read MoreAmerica’s move-easy hotspots: Renters change homes most frequently in the Southeast
For many American renters, the reasons for moving are often related to finding jobs and better housing — trends that still hold firm even with the rise of remote work. But setting aside why they move, how frequently do renters in the U.S. move from one apartment to another? Better yet, which are the nation’s…
Read MoreHow to save on utility bills when using your refrigerator and other appliances
We’ve already shared a few easy ways to care for your budget and the environment while doing housework or saving on your light and heat bills. Now it’s time for another round of simple, money-saving tips for renters. Learning how to save on utility bills can go hand in hand with comfort or convenience. By…
Read MoreHow to read an apartment floor plan before you tour an apartment
When you’re searching for an apartment online, photos can only tell part of the story. That’s where the floor plan comes in. A floor plan is a simple diagram that shows the layout of an apartment — where the rooms, doors, and windows are located, how big the spaces are, and how everything connects. It’s…
Read MoreSearching for apartments in Huntsville, AL? Ask these 5 key questions first
As one of Alabama’s fastest-growing cities, Huntsville combines Southern charm with a strong aerospace and tech-driven economy. The city delivers a high quality of life without the sky-high prices of major coastal hubs. If you’re trying to stretch your housing budget, you’ll find that apartments in Huntsville offer excellent value. The overall cost of living…
Read MoreBest floor to live in an apartment with kids: Ground floor vs. upper floor pros and cons
When you’re renting with kids, finding the right apartment goes beyond counting bedrooms or checking square footage. Families have unique needs ranging from safety and convenience to noise levels and outdoor access. One big question that often comes up is: What’s the best floor to live in an apartment with kids? Whether you’re eyeing a…
Read MoreSeptember 2025 self storage report: Prices rise 1.5% year-over-year in September, even as monthly rates drift
Nationwide, self storage street rates averaged $136 in September 2025, up 1.5% year over year, but down 0.7% from August. The steepest annual rate declines hit cities like Spring Valley, NV; Ontario, CA; and Fayetteville, NC. At the same time, Shreveport, LA; St. Petersburg, FL; and Boston, MA posted among the strongest year-over-year gains. Of…
Read MoreEverything you need to know about renting: Timelines, terms & documents explained
This article was updated in October 2025. Searching for and finding a rental apartment is a journey that can be filled with excitement, but also anxiety. That’s why we’re here to guide you every step of the way. In this ultimate guide to renting, you will find a detailed timeline, a list of questions…
Read MoreBad credit apartments: How to get a lease when you have a low credit score
Worried that your credit score will keep you from finding your dream apartment? You’re not alone. Some renters face the challenge of securing bad credit apartments, but here’s the good news: a low credit score doesn’t have to mean living with your parents forever. While renting with bad credit requires extra effort and strategy, it’s…
Read More5 essential questions to ask before renting an apartment in Phoenix, AZ
Phoenix, AZ — also known as the Valley of the Sun — is a growing city, drawing new residents with its sunshine and energy. Renting an apartment here means access to a strong job market and endless outdoor adventures — if you’re ready to handle the desert heat. For renters trying to stick to a…
Read More9 Tips to prevent your dog from barking in the apartment
If you’re trying to prevent barking, it helps to first understand why dogs do it. Barking is normal and often useful — dogs use it to communicate, ask for attention, or react to something happening around them. But when a dog barks nonstop, especially while you’re away, it can lead to stressed-out neighbors and a…
Read MoreThe Renter’s Kitchen Playbook: How to Keep Your Apartment Safe
In an apartment, the kitchen is more than a place to cook. It’s where you brew coffee, prepare meals, and gather with friends. But kitchens are also one of the most common places where accidents happen. From stovetop fires to slip-and-fall mishaps, even a quick meal prep can turn dangerous if you’re not careful. Practicing…
Read MoreA Renters’ Guide to Public Transport in Milwaukee, WI
When moving to a new city, one of the first things renters often consider — beyond the apartment itself — is how they’ll get around. Having reliable public transportation nearby can make everyday life more convenient, whether you’re commuting to work, running errands, or meeting friends for dinner. Understanding how Milwaukee public transit works can…
Read MoreAssessing a Building’s Emergency Preparedness: What to Look for During Your Apartment Search
When you’re looking for your happy place, it’s natural to get excited about granite countertops, in-unit laundry, or that perfect location near your favorite coffee shop. But here’s something that deserves just as much attention that’s often overlooked: building safety. Fires, severe storms, floods, and power outages can strike without warning, and how well your…
Read MoreWhat is a gated community apartment? Pros and cons for renters
The search is over. Scrolling through apartment listings online, you spot the perfect place: a great location, beautiful photos, and all the amenities you want. Then you notice it’s in a “gated community.” You might be wondering what that really means and whether it’s worth paying extra rent. For many U.S. renters, gated community apartments…
Read MorePublic Transport in Orlando, FL: Everything You Need to Know as a Renter
Orlando‘s got everything going for it: year-round sunshine, incredible theme parks, and a job market that keeps growing. If you’re looking at apartments here, you’ve probably noticed the reasonable rent prices and cool neighborhoods. But here’s the big question most renters ask: “Do I really need a car to live in Orlando?” Let’s be honest.…
Read MoreCost of Living in Austin Explained: From Rent Prices to Everyday Expenses
Thinking about making Austin, TX, your new home? Smart choice — this city’s got everything from incredible live music to a job market that just keeps growing. But before you start browsing apartments, let’s talk about the real cost of living in Austin and what your monthly budget will look like. Moving anywhere new means…
Read MorePublic transit in Miami: What renters need to know
Looking for apartments in Miami? You’re searching in the country’s hottest rental markets, where securing a rental apartment means competing with a dozen of other applicants, regardless of the time of year. But while many renters are focused on how much space they can get within their budget or Instagram-worthy kitchens, savvy apartment hunters also…
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