We all want to save money when we move. Here are a few simple tips to try at home!

The Right Time

The months between May and September are when most people move. If you can wait until the off-season and move during the winter, property managers may be more likely to offer move-in specials or offer lower rent. Even just one month’s rent off can go a long way, or possibly lowering the security deposit.

Lower Floor for Your Funds

Some people in the city are willing to pay more for a beautiful view of Chicago or New York etc. So if you don’t mind your window views being a little less spectacular, you can save money by living on a lower floor. 

Make Friends with Your Property Manager

Having a good relationship with the person running your apartment complex can be a huge help. By being kind and courteous, it may save you time and money when you need something. You never know what a person is willing to do for you when you treat them with respect!

Your Rent Is Not Always Permanent

New apartment owners think they can only negotiate when they sign the lease. However, every time you are up for a new lease, or you are thinking about moving, see if the property manager is willing to negotiate. Don’t threaten, just inform. Short on cash? Moving to save money? Let them know these things and maybe they will help you out. 

Don’t Make Expensive Upgrades

We want you to stay as long as possible, of course. But wherever you live, don’t make expensive upgrades or buy new furniture and appliances unless you plan on staying. The things you buy now could be money you have saved for the future. 

Energy Savers

Anything not provided by the apartment can be hacked for energy – and money-saving purposes. Lightbulbs cost money to run, and so does your hairdryer. If available, spend a little extra on energy-saving appliances and devices. It all adds up.

Be Thorough and Report Problems

When you move in, take photos of anything and everything. Anything that breaks, leaks, runs too much, is discolored, etc. can all end up costing you money. Get ahead of the game by letting your property manager know it was not you who caused it and get issues fixed right away.

Yes, Roommates Save You Money

Sure, they can be messy, but the more you split up rent, the less you pay. Crazy, right!?

Know of any other good money-saving hacks? Let us know in the comments!

The post Small Apartment Hacks to Save You Money appeared first on Willow Crossing Blog.

We understand that finding a new apartment can be a long and laborious process, involving weeks or even months. The search can be difficult with so many apartment homes in the area and prices that are continuously fluctuating. It's difficult to know where to begin, so we've put together a few pointers to assist you in finding the appropriate home for you.

1. Make a financial plan

Price is one of the most essential considerations while looking for a new home. With housing costs rising, finding a property within your budget might be difficult. Location and season might have an impact on pricing, so conduct some research on the location you want to reside in. What are the current market prices in various areas? Find out what other people are paying by asking around. External elements should be factored into your budget because newer places may have a lot more included amenities for the price.

2. Think about your commute and where you want to live.

Consider the commute if you already have a job and are familiar with your workplace. What is the current state of the traffic in the area? Is there a good network of buses, trains, and other local transportation options? Are you looking for a location that is close to specific amenities?
These are all questions to think about when deciding where to live, as the length of your commute can make or break your day. Some suburbs and neighborhoods have very distinct cultures than others, so if you have the opportunity, go exploring to see where you believe you'd be happiest.

3. Make a list of all of the things you can't live without.

Do you require a workspace?
How many bathrooms are you looking for?
Are there any animals in the picture?
Is it necessary to have a gym on-site?
These things may or may not be important to you, but figure out what does and write it down. This will help you focus your search on viable possibilities.

4. If you can, be patient and take tours!

It takes time to find your dream home, so don't rush into a scenario where you'll be unhappy. If you can't wait any longer, consider hiring a real estate agent or broker to assist you with your search. Because they may have access to information that you do not, the finder's fee may be worthwhile. They can also arrange tours for you, allowing you to visit more sites than you could on your own.

5. Make a list of all the questions you want to ask.

Property managers have a reason for being in their jobs. Make the most of them by asking questions about the flats you're interested in before you go on a tour.

• Is there a parking fee at the property? Pets?

• What other options do you have if you don't want to pay them for parking?

• What services and amenities are included?

• Is the price of the property inclusive of utilities? Hundreds of dollars could be saved!

• Is it necessary to have renter's insurance?

• Is it trash or recycling? Maintenance? Landscaping?

These are all crucial factors to consider. Any inquiries you may have about our properties can be directed to Marquette Management.

If you have any concerns concerning our properties, please contact us or call us at 630-320-0550.

The post 5 Tips to Finding the Best Apartment Homes: Where to Live and How to Find It appeared first on Willow Crossing Blog.