• Kitchen space
• Living room
• Bedroom
• Bathroom

Let's break down the essentials needed for each room to move in and start living your best life!

Kitchen

The kitchen is probably the most challenging room to fill because you never know what you will need until you need it. However, here are a few basic things you can guarantee you will go looking for while cooking almost any meal.

When picking out the cookware, think about if you want it to be non-stick or stainless steel.

Non-stick can be great, but the coating breaks down over time, making it more likely to need replacement. On the other hand, stainless steel cookware is a bit pricier but will last longer.

The difference is that you won't have that non-stick guarantee. Both are available in "sets" that give you a variety of sizes for different uses.

Bedroom

The bedroom is your personal space and needs to be somewhere you feel comfortable laying your head down at night. 

Doctors recommend keeping your bedroom at a cool temperature and relaxed to promote healthy sleep. Blackout curtains to keep the light out and a fan to keep you cool might prove helpful in this endeavor. 

The bedroom is the most personal of the spaces in your apartment, so let your personality shine. 

Bathroom

The bathroom is the most effortless room to fill. A few basics, and you are good to go. If you choose to decorate, have some fun and pick a theme that will have your guests talking long after they've left. 
 

Living Room

The living room is a common area used by you and your guests. Imagine a comfortable spot with plenty of seating to host movie nights or a party.

A sleeper sofa or a futon is an excellent option if you have an overnight guest. A few items that are not essential but fun to have include: TV (smart TVs have streaming services built in, which saves you from buying an additional piece of hardware), cabinet to hold books or games, and plants.

Other Essentials

Your new apartment will have a maintenance team to handle the repairs.

However, that doesn't mean you won't need a few handy items. Surge protectors, a basic tool kit, first aid, and duct tape are a few things everyone needs. 

Make it feel like home

The most important thing to remember is to make your new apartment feel like home. Give it a personality that makes you want to spend time there and invite over some friends. You don't have to have elaborate items to make it great. All that matters is that you like it and enjoy being there.

The post Essentials For Your First Apartment appeared first on Concord Management Blog.

All you need to enjoy your morning coffee on your balcony is a café table and a chair. Choose one that folds up easily so you can store it inside if necessary.

Bring in Greenery

Pack your balcony with planters filled with plants to create the feel of that backyard you’ve always wanted.

Opt for Floor Pillows

There’s no need to invest in outdoor furniture. Get some colorful and comfortable floor pillows that can do double duty inside.

Add an Outdoor Rug

Amp up the look of your balcony with a patterned rug or runner. Be sure to choose one that will stand up to the elements.

Use Your Wall Space

Hang planters or weather-resistant art to help your balcony feel like an extension of your apartment.

Light It Up

Give yourself plenty of light for late-night hangouts…go for string lights or outdoor lanterns.

Opt for Folding Furniture

If you’re short on space, try installing furniture that can be tucked or folded away when not in use.

Give Yourself Some Privacy

If your balcony is right up against your neighbor’s, add tall plants like bamboo
to create a natural wall.
~Source: architecturaldigest.com
 

The post Make Your Patio Into an Extended Living Space appeared first on Concord Management Blog.

Before you begin to look for your first apartment home, be sure to check out these tips to help you prepare!

Budget

Before starting your apartment search, work out a budget for what amount rent you'll be able to afford. Remember, you'll need to have enough funds for the deposit upfront in addition to your monthly rent. Finally, you should expect to have some one-time expenses early on for supplies you'll need in your home. This can range from anything as simple as a mop and bucket to the furniture in your bedroom. There's a lot of things you don't realize you'll need until you're moved in!

Location

Location is one of the most important factors in deciding where to rent. Do you want to be close to work? How close to you want to be to a grocery store? Make sure you think about these questions when deciding on where to look and remember that sometimes you can save by renting further away from the hustle and bustle of the city.

Requirements

See what kind of amenities each apartment community has to offer, and if you have a furry friend, make sure you're aware of their pet policy! Heart Healthy Cardio & Fitness Studios will mean less time and money at your local gym. Also, if you work from home or spend a lot of time online, keep an eye out for what kind of cable/internet packages are offered before you move in.

Renters Insurance

It's important to be prepared for the unexpected. Choose the policy that is right for you and make sure you and your belongings are covered in case of fire or natural disaster.

The post Four Things to Keep in Mind for First Time Renters appeared first on Concord Management Blog.