Apartments for Me

Moving to Portland: Everything You Need to Know

If the lush forests, rugged coastline and snow-capped mountains of the Pacific Northwest are calling your name, hands down one of the best places to live surrounded by all this spectacular nature is Oregon’s biggest and best-known city — Portland.

Renowned for its foodie scene, arts and culture, craft beer (there are at least 50 breweries in town and the city is affectionately known as “Beervana“), liberal attitudes and famously “weird” counterculture, the Rose City has been a magnet for new residents in recent years. With a bustling jobs market and a wide range of neighborhoods offering price points to fit all manner of budgets, there’s perhaps never been a better time to consider moving to Portland.

So, if you love good food, beer, nature, music, art, history and living in a city surrounded by funky, creative people, Portland could be the place for you. If you’re considering moving to Portland in the near future, read on to learn more about this fascinating city of roses, bridges and beer to see if it’s the right fit!

Portland overview

Sitting at the confluence of the Willamette and Columbia rivers, Portland was first founded as a port city, most notably for shipping high-quality Oregon timber. As a frontier town at the end of the Oregon Trail, early Portland was far from a progressive haven — it was a rough-edged, crime-ridden town where sailors were Shanghaied onto ships and organized crime ruled.

Now, Portland is the largest city in Oregon and one of the main cultural, culinary and commercial hubs of the Pacific Northwest. With new residents drawn to the Rose City by its offbeat atmosphere, natural surroundings and good quality of life, Portland has seen significant growth in recent years:

• Population: 654,741
• Population density (people per square mile): 4,375.3
• Median income: $73,097
• Average studio rent: $1,413
• Average one-bedroom rent: $1,776
• Average two-bedroom rent: $2,298
• Cost of living index: 133.7

Popular neighborhoods in Portland

With 95 official neighborhoods, Portland is divided into six different sections: North, Northeast, Northwest, Southeast, Southwest and the newly-recognized South district, which was created in May 2020.

From tree-lined streets of historic Craftsman-style homes in family-friendly neighborhoods to sleek condos near the heart of the city where hip young people have instant access to trendy eateries, shops and entertainment, each area has its own vibe and attributes.

• Nob Hill: Located in the Northwest part of the city, Nob Hill is a constant hive of activity thanks to its abundance of top-notch dining options, eclectic shopping and robust arts and culture options. Surrounded by neighborhoods of quaint Victorian homes, it’s just a short walk to buzzy streets like NW 21st and 23rd. Residents also enjoy easy access to the idyllic Forest Park, which boasts numerous trails that allow you to escape into the wilderness just steps from your front door.
• Pearl: Having undergone a massive urban renewal from its origins as a warehouse and railyard district, the Pearl is now one of Portland’s most sought-after living areas. Residents have the choice of living in ultra-modern condos or updated historic buildings, and many older warehouses have been repurposed into trendy boutiques, restaurants, cafes, breweries and a wide variety of art galleries.
• St. Johns: Dating from the early 1900s, the North Portland enclave of St. Johns is one of Portland’s most historic neighborhoods. As such, it still feels like a small town, offering a communal atmosphere for residents who enjoy its long-established family shops, restaurants and businesses. Sitting close to the confluence of the Willamette and Columbia rivers, it’s also a wonderfully outdoorsy area, with access to nearby Sauvie Island and lush parks like Cathedral Park. St. Johns is also home to one of Portland’s most iconic landmarks, the elegant St. Johns bridge.
• Hawthorne District: This wonderfully bohemian area in Southeast Portland is chock-full of things to do, from shopping at vintage boutiques to living it up at late-night music venues and bars. It’s also fantastic for strolling and people-watching. With SE Hawthorne Boulevard at the center of the action, you can simply walk from your home in the adjoining neighborhoods sample a range of dining and shopping options. And if you need a little bit of fresh air, head to the nearby Mt. Tabor Park to sit by its reservoir or chill on its grassy fields.
• Alberta Arts District: Alive with art and culture, the Alberta Arts District calls to artists, dreamers and eccentrics. If you’re seeking that classic “keep Portland weird” vibe, here’s a good place to start. Abutted by historic neighborhoods of charming houses, the main drag along Alberta Street is filled with independent shops, art galleries, theaters and performance collectives and some of the best coffeehouses and restaurants in the city.

Pros of moving to Portland

When it comes to moving to Portland, there are many pros that instantly come to mind — amazing music, diverse art, a thriving scene for makers and independent creators, incredible food, the list goes on and on.

The city is also served by Portland International Airport, which was voted the best airport in the U.S. for seven years in a row. But here are some of the top stand-out reasons to consider a move to the Rose City:

Amazing food scene

It’s one of the most enthused-about of Portland’s attributes, but that’s because it’s absolutely true. Portland has one of the best foodie scenes in the U.S. There’s an incredible variety to choose from, spanning international cuisines, fun multicultural cross-over creations and reliable classics, available at hip dining rooms or outdoor food carts.

You want ramen so good it tastes like it came straight from Tokyo? You got it. How about the crispiest, crunchiest fried chicken outside of the South? We’ve got that, too. The dining options are endless, with new ones opening every day. There’s also the lauded craft beer scene and a growing number of excellent distilleries.

A thriving and diverse job market

Portland is famously known as being the home of Nike, Intel and other major corporations, so its reputation as having a great job market is well-warranted. The city is even home to so many tech industry businesses that it’s been given the nickname Silicon Forest.

But on top of these established giants of industry, which offer competitive rates and excellent benefits packages, Portland also has an exciting start-up sector, which is attracting new and diverse talent to the city. With such a broad playing field, workers here have the chance to bring their talents to world-class brands or launch their own ventures.

Outdoorsy fun mixed with cosmopolitan delights

Fancy going for a hike right after a delicious brunch, followed by post-hike cocktails and a world-class dinner? In Portland, that’s easy. The city’s convenient location offers the perfect combination of wilderness access and urban amenities, making it perfect for both city slickers and nature lovers.

In addition to hiking and exploring large urban parks like Washington Park and Forest Park right near downtown, the Oregon coast, Mount Hood and the Willamette Valley are just short drives away, providing access to hiking, swimming, surfing, cycling and skiing. Then, it’s easy to head back into the city at the end of the day for drinks, dinner and even catching a show or musical act.

Cons of moving to Portland

It’s not all delicious vegan eats, hoppy beer and living that “Portlandia” life. With the growth that Portland has seen in recent years, there are some cons to consider before moving here, as it could affect your decision of what neighborhood or area to live in.

Increasing traffic

As Portland has grown, so has its traffic. In 2019, Portland ranked 10th in the nation for having the worst traffic. As a city built along two rivers and surrounded by mountains and rolling hills, expanding existing infrastructure like roads and bridges to help combat the congestion is difficult, causing long traffic backups along Portland’s many bridges.

One upside? Portland also boasts an excellent public transit system, offering buses, streetcars and light rail, as well as bike-friendly roads and paths, so there are alternative options for getting around.

Gentrification

As with many other growing cities, Portland is definitely struggling with gentrification, as lower-income and minority residents, especially Black residents, are forced out of their historic neighborhoods around the city center to outlying areas due to rising prices and urban revitalization.

But this isn’t a new problem. Due to its history with racism, gentrification has been an issue in Portland almost since the city was created. Portland is widely remarked to be the whitest city in America, and the data back up that it’s one of the least racially-diverse cities in the United States. But steps are being taken to address the issue and create more fair and equitable affordable housing options.

Gray winters and lots of rain

It’s just rain, you may think. What’s so bad about a few months of gray skies and rain? A lot, it can turn out. Even locals struggle with the months-long gray, cold and rainy weather that dominates the winter months. You can go weeks without seeing blue skies, and people here are encouraged to take Vitamin D and calcium supplements to cope with the lack of sunlight.

On the one hand, the constant rain and overcast skies can make for a dreary mood, but on the other, it’s perfect for snuggling up indoors with a good cup of coffee and a book.

How to get started on moving to Portland

Even with its flaws, Portland still shines as one of the most exciting cities to call your home, with plenty to offer all kinds of residents, from families to young couples, in its almost 100 unique neighborhoods.

To help you plan your move to Portland, head on over to our Moving Center, where you’ll find plenty of useful information and resources about moving, as well as free quotes.

Rent prices are based on a rolling weighted average from Apartment Guide and Rent.com’s multifamily rental property inventory of one-bedroom apartments. Data was pulled in November 2020 and goes back for one year. We use a weighted average formula that more accurately represents price availability for each individual unit type and reduces the influence of seasonality on rent prices in specific markets.

Population and income numbers are from the U.S. Census Bureau.

Cost of living data comes from the Council for Community and Economic Research.

The rent information included in this article is used for illustrative purposes only. The data contained herein do not constitute financial advice or a pricing guarantee for any apartment.

Published at Fri, 13 Nov 2020 14:00:32 +0000

Your Ultimate Dishwasher vs. Non-Dishwasher Checklist

When it comes time to clean your dishes, many people think that using a dishwasher is more convenient. Additionally, dishwashers are usually more eco-friendly than handwashing dishes. However, some dishes and cookware are not dishwasher-safe, meaning you should never put them in your dishwasher. Here’s your complete checklist of dishwasher and non-dishwasher-safe items.

Dishwasher-safe items

Among the kitchen items you can put in your dishwasher are:

1. Non-disposable silverware: You can put metal utensils (including ones with silicone handles) in your dishwasher. If you use plastic, single-use utensils, they should be discarded in your recycling bin. 
2. Non-disposable bowls, plates, and cups: Ceramic bowls, plates, and cups are safe to put in your dishwasher. For plastic or fragile items, it’s best to check the manufacturer’s recommendations first.
3. Mixing bowls: Clean your mixing bowls in your dishwasher by placing them on the top rack to ensure they don’t block your dishwasher’s water flow.
4. Plastic cutting boards: Many cutting boards are dishwasher-safe. Check the manufacturer’s recommendations if you’re unsure about putting your cutting board in the dishwasher.
5. Sturdy wine glasses: It’s safe to load non-delicate wine glasses and sturdy drinking glasses into the dishwasher.
6. Uncoated stainless-steel and metal bakeware: Metal bakeware can be safely cleaned in a dishwasher if it doesn’t have a non-stick coating.

Dishwasher-unsafe items

Among the kitchen items that should never go in your dishwasher are:

1. Cast iron: Cast iron should never go in the dishwasher. Dishwashing detergents will strip your cast iron cookware’s non-stick surface and leave the cast iron vulnerable to rust.
2. Wooden kitchenware: Dishwashers’ high temperatures often warp or crack wood kitchen items, rendering them unusable. Wood can be damaged by too much exposure to water and powerful dishwasher detergents.
3. Cutting knives: Dishwasher use often dulls cutting knives, and preparing your meals with a dull knife can be dangerous (though a knife sharpener can help to fix this problem). Using a dull knife requires more force while cutting, thus making you more likely to lose control of the knife and injure yourself. 
4. Pots and pans with non-stick coatings: Dishwashers destroy non-stick coatings, so running pots and pans with these coatings through your dishwasher is ill-advised. In fact, doing so can cause the coating to flake off while you’re coating, and this coating can be dangerous to consume.
5. Engraved and hand-painted dishware: Sometimes, dishwashers can wear down measuring cup engravings and patterns on hand-painted dishware. Even measurement markings on an everyday glass measuring cup may fade with repeated dishwasher exposure.
6. Some plastic items: Some plastics aren’t heat-resistant enough to withstand dishwasher use. If your plastic seems delicate, check the manufacturer’s instructions.
7. Sponges: It’s safest to dispose of dirty or mildewed sponges. Sponges can hold large amounts of bacteria, and some can be damaged in dishwashers. To err on the side of caution, clean your sponge by submerging it in a soapy solution – or just replace it when it starts to smell bad.
8. Reusable water bottles: Some reusable water bottles are dishwasher safe, but handwashing them still may be safer. The high-temperature water of dishwashing cycles may damage your reusable water bottle’s vacuum seal if it has one for insulation.

Which kitchenwares do you always put in the dishwasher? Which do you never put there? Sound off in the comments!

Published at Tue, 10 Nov 2020 20:00:18 +0000

The Best Vegan Restaurants in Washington, D.C.

Restaurants across the country are increasingly embracing plant-based foods and adding creative vegetarian and vegan dishes to their menus.

As Washington, D.C., is a mecca for top-notch restaurants, it’s no surprise that you can find amazing vegan options throughout the city. Here are some of the best vegan restaurants in Washington, D.C.

Note: At the time of publication, not all restaurants on this list are offering dine-in service, but delivery or take out is available. Please check with each restaurant individually to see how they are operating.

1. Beefsteak

Source: Facebook/BeefsteakVeggies

Where: 1528 Connecticut Ave. NW, Washington, D.C. 20036 and 800 22nd St. NW, Washington, D.C. 20052

Developed by one of the country’s leading chefs, José Andrés, this fast-casual spot isn’t strictly plant-based, but is one of the best vegan restaurants in D.C.

Head to Beefsteak in Dupont Circle or Foggy Bottom to enjoy delicious veggie bowls, fresh salads and hearty sandwiches.

2. Chaia Tacos

Source: Facebook/ChaiaTacos

Where: 3207 Grace St. NW, Washington, D.C. 20007 and 615 I St. NW, Washington, D.C. 20001

Chaia Tacos partners with local farmers to grow seasonal vegetables for its delicious tacos that are prepared with handmade corn tortillas. Unique combinations include creamy kale and potato, pepper jack, poblano crema, salsa verde and pickled red onion; chipotle sweet potato hash, feta, arugula pepita salsa and cilantro; and rainbow carrot and pea shoot with lemon ricotta, salsa de tomatillo crudo and mint.

The fast-casual restaurants are located in Georgetown and Chinatown.

3. Elizabeth’s Gone Raw

Source: ElizabethsGoneRaw

Where: 1341 L St. NW, Washington, D.C. 20005

Open every Friday and Saturday night, Elizabeth’s Gone Raw offers an elegant seven-course vegan tasting menu in a Federalist-era townhouse. The private venue offers a unique fine dining experience and can accommodate 80-seated guests. The menu is always different and inspired by a focus on the powerful healing benefits of a plant-based diet.

4. Equinox Restaurant

Source: Equinox Restaurant

Where: 818 Connecticut Ave. NW, Washington, D.C. 20006

Owned by Chef Todd Gray, a leading advocate for sustainable farming, Equinox is an upscale award-winning restaurant serving seasonal cuisine and well-known for its vegan options.

The menu features a wide range of dishes, such as black bean and walnut chili, spinach rigatoni with black Perigord truffle and roasted Hawaiian hearts of palm cakes. A plant-based Sunday brunch and a plant-based tasting menu are available.

5. Everlasting Life Restaurant

Source: Facebook/ELifeRestaurant

Where: 1231 Good Hope Rd. SE, Washington, D.C. 20020, 341 Cedar St. NW, Washington, D.C. 20012 and 9185 Central Ave., Capitol Heights, MD 20743

Everlasting Life Restaurant & Lounge is a cafeteria-style restaurant that fuses ethnic soul food with a vegan menu of fresh salads, whole plant-based entrees and side dishes, vegan desserts, juices and smoothies.

A hearty weekend brunch includes dishes, such as spiced tofu scramble, vegan sausage, orange steamed broccoli, organic corn grits and whole wheat pancakes. Elife is located inside the Anacostia Arts Center and has locations in Takoma Park and Capitol Heights.

6. Fancy Radish

Source: Fancy Radish D.C.

Where: 600 H St. NE, Washington, D.C. 20002

Located in the heart of the vibrant H Street Corridor, the vegetable restaurant Fancy Radish features a creative menu of seasonal ingredients that ranges from cold dishes and vegetable charcuterie to single seasonal vegetables to richer, more composed plates.

Standout dishes include Singapore noodles, seared maitake mushrooms and rutabaga fondue. The bar features natural wines, craft beers and a creative cocktail list.

7. Fare Well

Source: Fare Well

Where: 406 H St. NE, Washington, D.C. 20002

Fare Well is a vegan diner, bakery and bar offering veggie-centric comfort food. Favorite dishes include carrot cake pancakes, French toast casserole topped with fruit and coconut whipped cream, Southern-fried steaks made with chickpeas, potato pierogies, and the Mexacali burger.

Located in the heart of the H Street Corridor, the bakery is a prime spot to buy a cake or cookies.

8. Fruitive

Source: Facebook/Fruitive

Where: 1094 Palmer Alley NW, Washington, D.C. 20001 and 1330 Connecticut Ave. NW, Washington, D.C. 20036

Fruitive is a plant-based, certified organic, fast-casual restaurant with locations in Washington D.C. and Virginia Beach.

The menu includes smoothies, super berry bowls, salads, wraps, tacos, soups and sandwiches. One-, three- and five-day vitamin-rich juice packs are available to purchase and take home.

9. NuVegan Cafe

Source: Facebook/WoodlandsVeganBistro

Where: 2928 Georgia Ave., Washington, D.C. 20001 and 2397 6th St. NW Washington, D.C. 20059

NuVegan Cafe is a cafeteria-style vegan restaurant that offers a range of dishes ranging from kale salad to mac and cheese to jumbo-sized cinnamon rolls. Online ordering and catering are available. Favorite menu items include vegan crab cakes, vegan fried chicken sandwich, ginger spied tofu, Caribbean chickpeas and vegan mac and cheese.

10. Shouk

Source: Facebook/Shoukfood

Where: 655 K St. NW, Washington, D.C. 20001 and 395 Morse St. NE, Washington, D.C. 20002

The fast-casual Shouk offers Israel-inspired all plant-based and Kosher pitas, bowls and salads. The acclaimed veggie burger combines chunks of beets, mushrooms, cauliflower, lentils, black beans, onions and dresses it with tomato, pickled turnip, arugula, charred onion and tahini.

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Published at Mon, 02 Nov 2020 16:36:37 +0000

Why Are Meal Kits So Popular With Apartment Dwellers?

Over the past few years, meal kits have become increasingly popular with apartment dwellers. According to one study, millennials are the top generation buying these meal delivery and preparation services (and using the Internet for cooking advice). Here’s what meal kits are and why they’re so popular with apartment dwellers.

What are meal kits?

Meal kits are subscription-based services that send you a box containing pre-portioned ingredients for an easy-to-make recipe. After you receive a meal kit, you’ll combine the ingredients, cook them, and serve yourself a delicious meal. Some meal kits require some meal preparation techniques such as chopping, slicing, and peeling, but even people who consider themselves bad chefs often find this all super easy with meal kits to help.

What do meal kits include?

Usually, meal kits have simple and straightforward recipes so you don’t have to worry about complicated directions or eyeballing measurements for recipes with vague instructions. With meal kits, you can simply read through the directions, open the packages, prepare your ingredients using your kitchenware, and cook it all up into something delicious.

Why do people use meal kits?

Easier cooking

In a survey of 750 people, many millennials said they consider themselves bad at cooking, and only five percent said they were good at cooking. For people who aren’t good cooks (or just don’t like cooking), a meal delivery kit saves time and provides not just easy-to-follow recipes, but all the required ingredients. 

With meal kits, you can easily make a home-cooked meal without having to look for ingredients in your apartment’s kitchen or a nearby grocery store. They give you delicious meals without scouring the internet for easy, highly-rated recipes.

Healthier, more flavorful meals

Many meal delivery companies offer healthy and organic ingredients to make your meals more nutritious. Meal kit subscription companies often have vegetarian, carnivore, omnivore, paleo-friendly, and gluten-free meals, making cooking easier for people who have a particular diet. When you find a meal kit service you might like, you can usually apply diet filters while searching for recipes to see just how well this service will work for you.

Saves waste

Subscribing to a meal kit service can help you reduce the amount of food waste you generate, which is important – the United States is a global leader in food waste. When cooking with meal kits, you get only the exact amount of ingredients you need to cook for a meal – no more, no less. That means you won’t cook too much and have leftovers that spoil. That means less food waste in a dumpster or landfill (and composting helps divert food waste from landfills too).

Saves time

Meal kit services label everything you need and ship it all to your apartment’s doorstep, and their simple instructions and direct delivery mean quicker meal prep. You won’t have to spend time traveling to the grocery store, looking for grocery items, carrying grocery bags, and searching for recipes online. Additionally, many meal delivery recipes have short prep times.

Cheaper than takeout or delivery

Meal kits can be cheaper than restaurant-delivered food. Some meal kits offer free shipping, and you won’t need to tip the delivery person like you should when you order food. Additionally, as more meal kit delivery services launch, the competition may reduce meal kits’ prices while leading to higher-quality ingredients and recipes.

If you already subscribe to a meal kit, why do you like your meal delivery service? Sound off in the comments!

Published at Mon, 26 Oct 2020 20:55:21 +0000

10 Under Sink Storage Solutions You Need in Your Life

Keeping your house organized is no easy task and the space under the sink is no exception. It’s often easy to forget about the storage under the sink as it’s mostly covered and hidden.

However, it can and should be just as organized as any other part of your house. Here are 10 under the bathroom sink and under kitchen sink storage ideas.

Under kitchen sink storage ideas

The kitchen is one of the most used rooms in any house or apartment. The only thing that makes a kitchen more enjoyable is when it’s clear of clutter, under the sink included.

Here are some clever under the kitchen sink storage ideas for you to try.

1. Hang bottles with tension rods

Tension rods are one of the best under sink storage solutions. They can be used on virtually every surface and also can be fitted to almost any size area. Once they’re in place you can hang cleaning supply bottles from them to free up space from the bottom of the cabinet.

One of the best things about tension rods is they’re not permanent and they can easily be removed and reused through the house.

2. Use file holders to add storage

File holders aren’t just nifty organizers for the paper on your desk — they make great storage for under your kitchen sink. They’re pretty inexpensive and easy to find at your local paper store or Target.

All you have to do is adhere them to the inside of the cabinet door and you’ll have yourself some extra storage. It’s a great place to put extra towels, dish brushes or sponges for easy access.

3. Organize with bins

When organizing, you can never go wrong with a good old bin. They make a great space to neatly organize and group everything into their own neat place. Once everything has its place you can easily stack them to create even more cleared up space.

Another tip is to label them so that you don’t have to waste time sifting through each one when you’re looking for one thing.

4. Expand storage with a Lazy Susan

Let’s all thank Susan for being lazy and inventing the lazy Susan. It’s one of the most helpful and fun storage hacks on the list. They come in a variety of sizes to fit under any cabinet and make finding what you’re looking for super easy. The best part is you just place all your supplies on it and you’re done!

5. Install cabinet towel holders

Similar to tension rods, cabinet towel holders offer extra space in your cabinet while keeping it organized. They’re very easy to find and even easier to set up and can be used in a variety of spaces around the home, including under your kitchen sink.

All you have to do is remove the packaging and attach the hooks to the door part of your cabinet. Once you’ve done that hang anything from them like cleaning supplies, extra towels and even your cleaning gloves.

Under bathroom sink storage

Similar to the kitchen sink, the bathroom sink is another space that can be difficult to organize. Fear not we’ve got you covered there, too! Here are some great tips for how to organize under your bathroom sink.

6. Store hair tools with PVC piping

When you think of PVC piping under the bathroom sink, storage probably doesn’t come to mind. PVC pipes are a great way to store hair tools such as curling irons, flat irons and their cords. Since they come in a multitude of sizing, you can perfectly fit your tools to the pipe. When you have a perfect size the only thing left to do is attach it to the inside of the cabinet doors.

7. Declutter with sliding shelves

Sliding shelves are a great way to de-clutter under your bathroom sink. They create more space to store items, such as hair products and tools, toilet paper, etc. One of the best things about sliding shelves is the easy access to everything without having to dig through all your things.

8. Create extra space with cabinet door bins

Creating extra storage in small areas is a great way to accomplish all your organizing goals. One way to add extra space is to add cabinet door bins. They’re extremely easy to adhere and also can be removed easily when you’re done using them. They also hold quite a bit and are a great place to put your products, brushes, towels and more.

9. Utilize bins and caddies

As mentioned above, a bin or a caddy is one of the most useful tools to create a clutterless space. Get a large bin specifically for towels and toilet paper and they usually take up the bulk of under sink storage. Use smaller bins for other supplies and stack them to create ample, organized space.

10. Hang caddies over the cabinet door

Hair tools can take up a lot of space under your bathroom sink. One of the best ways to combat bulky hair tools is an over-the-door caddy. They make some specifically for hair tools that easily slip over the door for easy access and assembly.

Do’s and don’ts of under sink storage

You can store a number of items under your bathroom and kitchen sink. Although, there are some items more suitable for under sink storage than others.

Things to safely store under your kitchen sink

• Sponges, cleaning brushes, gloves
• Cleaning supplies, such as glass cleaner, dishwashing pods, soap. When storing cleaners underneath the kitchen sink, keep in mind who is in your household. If you have small children that enjoy exploring cabinets you may consider placing cleaners out of reach or adding childproof locks on the door. Another idea is to place all your cleaning supplies on a rubber tray in case of spills for easy cleanup.
• Trash bags
• Trash can
• Recycling can

Things to safely store under your bathroom sink

• Toiletries, such as extra toothbrushes and paste, deodorant, contact solution
• Toilet paper
• Towels
• Hairstyling tools
• First aid kit

Things to avoid putting under the kitchen sink

• Bug spray
• Oven cleaner
• Lightbulbs
• Food

Things to avoid putting under the bathroom sink

• Jewelry
• Medications

Organize under your sink

Organizing is never an easy task, however, with the right guidance, it can be a little easier. Use these under the bathroom and kitchen sink storage ideas to create a nice organized space for yourself.

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Published at Thu, 22 Oct 2020 13:00:26 +0000

Best Gyms in Aurora, CO

Regardless of where you live, it’s important to have a balance between your work life and personal life. And, while you may decide to move to a new city for a work opportunity or to be near relatives or friends, you also have to consider what that new city has to offer. For this reason, if you’re looking for apartments for rent in Aurora or are considering moving here in the future, here are the top gyms in the area.

Powerhouse Gym

One of the many gyms in Aurora that’s open 24 hours, Powerhouse Gym is one of the most popular local fitness spots. It’s appreciated for its cleanliness, friendly staff, wide variety of equipment and welcoming environment. Plus, it’s large enough that it never feels too crowded. Powerhouse Gym can be found in Meadow Hills.

Crunch Fitness

Locally owned and operated, Crunch Fitness is a newer gym in City Center with brand new cardio and fitness equipment. Although it’s only open until 9 p.m. on weekdays and 5 p.m. on the weekend, there are still plenty of classes to take advantage of for everyone from beginners to advanced, as well as high intensity personal training.

Anytime Fitness

Vasa Fitness

Although it’s not open 24/7, Vasa Fitness in Summer Valley Ranch makes up for its reduced number or hours with the amenities that it offers. From cardio classes to a full range of fitness and cardio equipment and even to a swimming pool, Vasa has it all. The gym is open from 5 a.m. to 10 p.m. weekdays, from 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Saturdays, and 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Sundays.

Planet Fitness

Another major fitness chain, Planet Fitness is a must on the list of top gyms in Aurora. It features a full range of equipment, and plenty of each, so that each member can work out whenever they want and at their own pace. Located in Utah Park, it is open from 4:30 a.m. until 11 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 4:30 a.m. to 10 p.m. on Friday, and 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. on weekends.

24 Hour Fitness

A 24-hour gym, this fitness center in the City Center Marketplace Shipping Center holds up to its name. However, 24 Hour Fitness is not just great for being open during all hours of the day. It’s also equipped with the best machines and all of the amenities for a complete workout for every type of trainee. Also, for those with kids, the kids’ club is great way to keep your children entertained while you exercise.

Colorado’s Pro Gym

A neighborhood gym, Colorado’s Pro Gym in Dayton Triangle is well-known among the local business and area residents. In addition to offering all of the equipment and resources required for any type of workout, the facility is also extremely clean and the staff is always friendly and willing to help.

Let’s Do This Fitness

Let’s Do This Fitness is a community-based gym in Aurora that is known for its fitness programs. Run by certified instructors, this neighborhood environment provides the opportunity to work out with like-minded people, thereby offering the possibility, inspiration and motivational support to achieve your fitness goals. It’s open every day from 5 a.m. to 11:45 p.m. and can be found in Heather Ridge.

Published at Tue, 13 Oct 2020 07:46:47 +0000

Home Tour: A Perfectly Autumnal Oasis in CT

I know many espouse shopping vintage as the only way to inject “authentic personality” into your home. I wouldn’t say I disagree. I enjoy the vintage scavenger hunt as much as anyone, but sometimes you need more expedient options. And if those options look as good as these fall pieces from Anthropologie do, I’m totally ok with that.

I posted about Anthro’s latest collaboration last month and their hits just keep on coming. I’m the first to admit I’ve often thought of Anthro pieces as overly whimsical, feminine and a touch too cottage chic, but this new editorial shows that it all depends on your context. A beautiful home designed by famed architect Richard Neutra certainly helps. This one is for sale FYI!

But what this home tour really illustrates is that a piece can take on a totally different personality in a different environment – so really you shouldn’t rule an option out at first glance. Really think about how something will look and feel in your space regardless if it’s modern or bohemian-inspired.

I could not be more obsessed with this wood cabinet. It has a really unique a mesh overlay, a travertine top an gorgeous rounded corners.

Also I have to mention that this mix of wood tones is giving me all kinds of inspiration for our new cottage. And since I only have about 10 weeks to renovate and furnish the entire house, I’m fully ok with unearthing some gems – big box store or not.

This entire home is a beautiful study in mixing soothing neutrals, a variety of texture and a feeling of pieces being collected over time. But you didn’t have to wait years to stumble across the perfect treasure. And there’s no shame in that!

As we shift into the new season and really think about making our homes our sanctuary from both the colder temperatures and from Covid, you can think out of the box while still shopping within one.

I spy the gorgeous foraged branch work of Colin King.

photography by Nicole Franzen, styling by Colin King for Anthropologie.

Published at Tue, 06 Oct 2020 05:52:17 +0000

Five Common Security Deposit Deductions Your Landlord Can Take

Security deposits are among the more significant finances involved with renting your first apartment. These deposits cover any damage you cause to your apartment, and even the most careful tenants can easily cause minor damage to their first apartments. After you move out, your landlord will subtract the monetary equivalent of any damage you cause from your deposit.

That said, if you’re clean and careful with your apartment, If you know the below five common security deposit deductions your landlord can take, you’ll be in especially good shape.

1. General cleaning

Leaving your apartment dirty will result in your landlord deducting from your security deposit to cover cleaning costs. Even basic apartment-wide cleaning tasks can run a deduction into the double-digits. So to avoid being charged for excessive cleaning costs, keep up with your cleaning routine, and leave your apartment “broom clean.”

It’s essential to leave your apartment in the same condition as when you moved in so you can receive your full deposit when you move out. After removing your belongings, use a broom, vacuum, mop, and other cleaning supplies of choice to achieve that squeaky-clean initial condition (or at least get your apartment as clean as it was when you first moved in).

2. General repairs

Surface-level repairs and maintenance, such as repainting or sealing holes in the wall, can cause a significant reduction in how much you receive from your security deposit. It’s best practice to fill any large holes you’ve created before you leave as well as smaller holes from nails, screws, and the like. Many people use spackling paste for this purpose. 

More in-depth repairs, such as plumbing and electric, can be costly to fix, causing your landlord to deduct a large fee from your deposit. Inform your landlord of any electric and plumbing issues as they arise during your residency to prevent yourself from being charged after you move out. Given the high costs of repair, it’s better to have these issues repaired before you leave instead of being blamed and charged for the damage after moving out.

3. Interior fixtures

Make sure to replace batteries for carbon monoxide and smoke detectors before you move out. Additionally, defective appliances should be fixed before moving out, whether you can do it yourself or you need to have your landlord bring in an expert. If damage occurs to a fixture or appliance in your apartment, ask your landlord to take care of it when the problem first appears instead of waiting – you’ll save more money this way.

4. Doors and windows

It’s important to replace faulty doorknobs, doors, and window panes. Perhaps you can’t do some of these replacements by yourself, but some door and window repairs may be easier than you think. Either you do it yourself or get your landlord to hire someone to repair the damage — again, don’t wait until you’ve moved out. 

5. Items left behind

Packing and moving everything you own may be a daunting task, but you shouldn’t leave anything behind. Leaving things in your apartment after you move out can be costly for your landlord because of the labor it takes to remove it. 

Some tenants leave mattresses and box springs behind, but doing so is ill-advised even if these objects are tough to move – your landlord can charge you high sums for these left-behind items in particular. If you need to get rid of large items, look into donating them to charity, hiring a junk hauling company, or selling them online.

The key takeaway: Fix faults as they happen

In general, if you want to receive your full deposit amount after you move out, you should always strive to repair damages right after they occur. Many people recommend taking a picture before you move in to keep track of any damages the apartment has when you first move in. Your landlord can fix issues while you’re living there instead of withholding money from your security deposit after you move out.

Do you have any advice to ensure that people receive their full security deposit after moving out of apartments? Sound off in the comments!

Published at Tue, 29 Sep 2020 22:42:32 +0000

A September State of Mind

Hi friends. So sorry to go completely MIA on you. Between attempting online school with a five-year-old, much of California burning to the ground, and the general state total chaos in which we find ourselves, getting to the computer for any length of time has been a bit of challenge, to put it mildly. And then I blinked and summer is officially over.

But I had to finally get on here as I have big news for you!

They say you shouldn’t make major life decisions during times of extreme stress, right? Well, we decided to throw all caution to the wind and instead have purchased a coastal cottage in Washington State! Apparently a global pandemic, homeschooling a kindergartner and the most consequential presidential election of our lifetime wasn’t enough to keep me busy.

In all seriousness, if the past seven months of Covid have taught us anything, it’s the importance of friends and family and so we decided to create a gathering place that can bring together those we love most for years to come. Nestled within the myriad of inlets and islands that dot the Puget Sound north of Seattle, the cottage enjoys sweeping views of the Olympic mountains and Hood Canal. I consider it my official respite from the impending doom. Sadly it looks nothing like the inspiration images I’ve collected here.

Instead, it is going to take a LOT of work to get our little coastal cottage visitor ready – and in a very short period of time. Over the coming weeks, I plan to take you along on the entire design journey. I will be sharing everything with you – from the cottage’s current state, to all of my design inspiration and through the remodel process. If all goes according to plan, I’ll share a major before and after reveal in time to spend the holiday season with our family rather than more than 800 miles away.

Trust me, we’re going to have plenty to discuss, as I have to pick an entire household’s worth of things – from paint colors and kitchen cabinets down to dishware, bedding and everything in between. No design decision will be left unturned. It’s both exhilarating and incredibly daunting. These mood boards are just part my first ideation session for my dream vibe.

I’m hopeful sharing this process with you will offer you some fresh design ideas and positive inspiration as we all hunker down to weather what will undoubtedly be a stormy fall – be it literally or just politically. It’s been a rather dark year and I feel like this might be a way to share a little bit of light. I know I am very happy for the creative distraction. I hope you are too.

I can’t wait to share more very soon!

Published at Tue, 08 Sep 2020 06:00:09 +0000