"Ten Tips for Small Spaces

All of us are really small space lovers. While McMansions rule the suburbs, and those with means build estates and ranches, us city folk aspire to the perfect perch.
Why? Because we are drawn to the warmth and buzz of urban life.
We are cliff dwellers. We long to be close to one another and feel the rhythm of the streets. We want to be right on top of it all, close to our friends, near the energy. If anything, we want a view, we want sunlight, and we want location, location, location. Space we are willing to give away.
But because perches are short on space, we are all -- both high and low -- forced to be creative when building our nests. Here then, is our starter list for our fellow cliff dwellers. Feel free to add your own.
Remove your interior doors (use curtains instead on closets and doors). Replace your big refrigerator with a smaller, undercounter model. It's more than enough room. Treat yourself to a really good, sturdy small vacuum (we love Meile). Use track lighting aimed at walls to free up floor space and create an expansive feeling. Install lighting inside closets so you can see what's in there. They will be easier to maintain and you will gain the feeling of more space. Clean your windows often so that more light comes in and your view is not blocked. Buy quality cookware, tableware, and linens. Small luxuries go a long way. Go wireless, transfer all your music to your computer and sell your CDs! Use full spectrum light bulbs to energize and enliven your home. Have lots of dinner parties. People actually socialize better in small spaces. And, as an added bonus, apartment dwellers who entertain take better care of their homes. For apartments in New Jersey go to Raritan Crossing. They are pet friendly apartments and New Brunswick NJ apartments. Rentals near Metropark and apartments in Middlesex county. For apartments in central NJ this is the place for you with Apartments in Middlesex County NJ. Raritan Crossing has apartments near metropark, apartments near Rutgers and apartments near Robert Wood Johnson. Central NJ Apartments. After a day of hard work you can relax in your luxury rental apartment and buy undergarments for yourself or your loved one online here. You can check out the women’s clothing undergarment blogs and shapewear here, here, here and here. For shapewear and it’s a great place to buy women’s undergarments.

Review Your Lease Before You Sign

– A Quick ChecklistYou’ll probably have a million things on your mind when you’re moving into your new place. Probably one of the most important things you need to do, and one that gets lost in the shuffle, or just gets rushed, is to thoroughly read through your lease before you sign it.
Here we’ve provided you a quick checklist to print off and take with you when you review your lease. Make sure you review all these items to ensure a happy and stress-free stay in your new place.
Check to see when the rent is due. Find out where to go to pay your rent, who it should be given to, or where it should be sent. What are the late charges for rent not paid on time? -When do these charges begin? Exact amount of deposit needed. When is this deposit returned? How can you lose this deposit? Is there a pet deposit? If so, how much is it? When can it get refunded? Can you get this deposit back if you no longer have your pet? How soon after you move out is the deposit returned? Can you have roommates and what is the building’s policy on adding someone to the lease if necessary? What exactly does the rent include? Does the rent include any utilities? If so which ones? What appliances and/or furniture, if any, are included in the apartment rental fees? Is parking included in the apartment rental or is there an additional charge? Are there any additional charges for the use of any building amenities such as the gym or community center? If there are additional fees, what are they and if you don’t use the amenities will you still be responsible for those fees? What repairs are covered within the lease? If something happens and repairs need to be made by building management, who needs to be called? Are there any charges for repairs not covered in the lease? If so, what are those costs? How quick is the turn around for something to be fixed that is covered in the lease? For apartments in New Jersey go to Raritan Crossing. They are pet friendly apartments and New Brunswick NJ apartments. Rentals near Metropark and apartments in Middlesex county. For apartments in central NJ this is the place for you with Apartments in Middlesex County NJ. Raritan Crossing has apartments near metropark, apartments near Rutgers and apartments near Robert Wood Johnson

Financial Requirements

Financial Requirements and What to Bring on Your Apartment Search In order to rent an apartment, you will be asked to complete an application, by your prospective landlord. You may also be required to pay between $50-$200 for credit reports and/or application fees. Landlords want to see evidence of steady income and good credit.
Financial Requirements - Most landlords require that the prospective tenant have an income equal to 40-45 times the monthly rent in annual salary (combined income is used for roommates). You and your roommate will need to have all of your income verification paperwork readily available upon application for an apartment. If you are a full time student or do not meet all the financial requirements, most landlords will require a lease co-signer or guarantor. A guarantor is an individual, typically a family member, who lives in the U.S., preferably in New York, New Jersey, or Connecticut. Guarantors are asked to disclose detailed financial information and have a credit report run on them as part of the approval process. The guarantor's income needs to be at least 75 times the monthly rent and they will also need to submit the paperwork listed below.
Funds - When the landlord approves your apartment application, be prepared to pay the first month's rent and the security deposit upon lease signing. Most landlords require that these funds be paid in the form of separate certified checks or money orders. Landlords will not accept personal checks or credit cards. An additional certified check or money order will be required at the time of lease signing to pay the broker's fee, if applicable. Necessary Documents - Bring the following items with you when you start looking for apartments: Letter from your current employer stating your salary or from a CPA if you are a freelance worker or a business owner First two pages of last year's tax return Most recent bank statement(s), bank account numbers and credit card numbers Most recent pay stub(s) Names, addresses and phone numbers of previous landlords Names, addresses and phone numbers of personal and business references Photo I.D. such as driver's license or passport
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Decorating Tip

My dining room has a very "earthy" decor. It has pale green walls, a scrubbed pine table, lots of candles, a simple pine buffet, and Mexican saltillos hanging in the corner on an antique ladder. I don't use a tablecloth very often, but I'd been itching for a table runner for months. The table just looked a little naked without one.
I checked all the usual places--Target, discount stores, the flea market, eBay, and other stores that carry home accessories. No luck, no luck at all. I wanted something, but I wasn't sure what. I thought maybe a tan, rough, linen runner would be nice. But I couldn't find one anywhere. At least, not one that I could afford. But I knew I wanted it to be a neutral color and to have an interesting texture.
Then I was at Joann etc. one day, and I wandered by a display that held bolts of burlap. Hmm..right color, lots of texture...bingo! I bought a couple yards (at just a few bucks each) and made my own runner. I cut a long, rectangular strip, then make fringe on the sides by carefully pulling some of the horizontal threads out. So for a few bucks and about a 1/2 hour of work, I got the table runner I couldn't find in any store.
Stay tuned for more tips, coming soon!
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Keeping Warm This Winter

When the weather outside is frightful, the temperatures inside your apartment can be less than delightful. Here are some tips on keeping your place warm when Old Man Winter rears his frosty head.
Let there be light. Open shades and curtains on south-facing windows during the day to let in the sun. Be sure to close them, curtains especially, to add a bit more insulation. While you may not be home during the day to appreciate the mid-day warmth, your apartment should stay warm enough to reduce your heating costs during the day (you are turning your thermostat down before you leave for the day, aren't you?).
Carpets aren't only for Aladdin. If you have bare floors (tile or hardwood, for example), use rugs to help them feel warmer in the morning and evening.
Be a draft dodger. If you have a draft, block it. This is best done with weather stripping around leaky doors and windows, but check with your landlord or property manager before attempting anything like that. If that's not an option, even a blanket in front of the door helps reduce the drafts coming in from the bottom of a door.
In space, no one can hear you shiver. If you spend the majority of your time in one or two rooms, consider the use of a space heater to warm that space instead of using the furnace to heat your whole apartment.
Listen to your father. As dad used to always say, 'Put on a sweater.' Wearing an extra layer of clothing can go a long way in keeping your body temperature up and your heating bill down. And don't forget that thick socks or slippers can help a lot with keeping you warm.
Be more like Linus from Peanuts - Use a blanket. Why heat the whole place when you're sleeping? Plug in the electric blanket and you can have a most cozy bed, while your house remains at an affordable temperature during the night hours. A blanket with dual temperature controls is best if you share your bed. Nary a couple can agree on the 'right' temperature.
Change is good. Have your furnace filter changed regularly. A dirty filter makes the furnace have to work harder, decreasing it's efficiency and increasing your heating costs.
You don't live in a barn. If you have a multi-room apartment, close the door to the unused rooms. And close the vent. If you don't use the room, there's no need to heat it.
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Using a Wood Stove at their homes using only wood heat.

Using a Wood Stove at their homes using only wood heat.
ExerciseBefore burning wood, Darren Gordon used to exercise at the gym. Now he uses wood splitting as a primary way to stay in shape. “If you are going to work out,” Gordon says, “you might as well do something that puts money in your pocket at the same time. Splitting wood really is an enjoyable activity. It has actually become one of the major reasons that I want to keep heating with wood.”
Similarly, the Ballenthins see the physical benefits, as well. Jim and Jean Ballenthin enjoy splitting wood together. “The exercise of cutting firewood is better than that obtained at any health club,” says Jim Ballenthin. “It connects us to—and makes us more aware of—our need to live in a sustainable relationship with our environment.”
Personal Satisfaction“It's a lifestyle choice,” says Darren Gordon. “Either you love [heating with wood] or you don't.” It's safe to say that Darren Gordon loves heating with wood. In fact, he has even written a detailed account of his family's experience with wood heat.
Jim Ballenthin agrees. “Burning wood may be a hassle for those for whom money is of no concern or for those who are not connected with the woods, forests, and outdoors. But it is second nature to us,” he says. “It's a matter of choices, priorities, economics, and exercise of personal values. At this time, it's hard to imagine us heating any other way.”
Ballenthin continues, “Friends and guests crowd around the stove after being outside on a cold winter day cross-country skiing, snow shoeing, ice skating on the lake, or just walking. A hot toddy, cup of hot cocoa, or coffee with Kahlua and a warm stove just can’t be beat for social conviviality.”
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Turn Your Balcony Into a Retreat

Turn Your Balcony Into a RetreatA crispy fern flanked by a flapping towel and a bike with two flat tires—sound like a balcony near you? As close as your own French doors, perhaps?If what you really want is a cozy place to barbecue, or an enchanted and enchanting retreat—no problem. With just the tiniest bit of attention and effort, you can transform even a swath of bleak and cheerless concrete into almost anything.First, figure out what kind of weather your balcony has to withstand, said Elizabeth Blome of Open Window Designs in Houston. A northern exposure will limit plant choices to shade-tolerant varieties, while a west-facing patio will be hard on decorative objects like wreaths and topiaries, which can crack and fade in the hot summer sun.As for that bike—you get to keep it."Our feeling is that if you want something, we can make it work," Blome said. "So if the bike is a part of your life, it stays—behind a screen or a lattice or a nice big plant."Decide how you want to use the space, said Helene Schultz, an interior decorator who recently tackled a patio in New York and a balcony in the Virgin Islands. And have fun. Whether you're making a private retreat, an outdoor dining room or dividing a large area into several rooms, an outdoor space should spring from your imagination.Jimenez built an Asian garden for moments of reflection."In some ways, the space in a balcony or patio is a bonus, it's unexpected," Schultz said. "You can go with something as simple as plants and a few chairs, or you can unleash your fantasies and be bolder or more playful than you might inside the home."Bold and playful were Edward Jimenez' bywords when designing the spacious balcony of his Los Angeles condo over the course of six years. At 11-feet wide and 25-feet long, Jimenez had a space large enough to be daunting. He solved the problem by dividing it into rooms—one for dining, one for a garden, another as a sitting room."I wanted it to look like it had always been there, that it was a place that had been cared for by a family over a period of years," said Jimenez, a hair stylist and makeup artist with a large celebrity clientele. He started with a tree and several plants, then added a seating area. When something didn't work, he gave it away and tried again."I went through so much furniture," Jimenez said, and laughed. "My family loves it—I keep giving them stuff that doesn't fit or doesn't work."For apartments in New Jersey go to Raritan Crossing. They are pet friendly apartments and New Brunswick NJ apartments. Rentals near Metropark and apartments in Middlesex county. For apartments in central NJ this is the place for you with Apartments in Middlesex County NJ. Raritan Crossing has apartments near metropark, apartments near Rutgers and apartments near Robert Wood Johnson.

Apartment Rental Search Tips

Whether you're moving four towns over or across the nation, apartment rental services are a must for any renter. Despite the number of apartment complexes dispersed throughout the United States, finding a fit to match your financial status and taste can be quite a challenge. Considering the following may assist you if you're preparing to pack up again.
. Diverse Listings-No two people are alike, just like not all apartments are created equally. The Apartments.com website lets you sort out what kind of rental you want, such as corporate or short term apartment leases.
. Various Services-Even if you're planning on renting for some time, sites like Move.com provide home financing information, as well as home & garden resources and moving advice.
. Pricing-Look for an apartment rental service that provides color photos, detailed listings with versatile price ranges, and even roommate searches, such as Rent.com.
. Search Function-Sifting through thousands of rentals isn't as easy as it looks. Apartments.com gives you the option to search by city and state, lease type, property name, and even a virtual map.
Of course, if you are looking for affordable apartment rentals, you should keep your budget in mind as you begin your search. However, by limiting your search parameters, you may not find what you're looking for. A great piece of advice is to go a little above and below the price range you have in mind, as some complexes offer move-in special's or cash back bonuses for renting with their particular company. Apartment rental services decrease the chances your next move will be a hectic one while providing you with plentiful options for the future.
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Renting Vs. Owning

You’ve probably heard this before: if you’re making a monthly rent payment, as opposed to a monthly mortgage payment, you’re essentially throwing your money away. Well, as common as the saying is, it’s not necessarily true – in many situations, it’s actually much more advantageous to rent an apartment rather than own a home. Here’s why:
StepsIt’s EasyCompared to owning a home, living in an apartment rental is incredibly easy. Why do the work yourself when you can enjoy the following benefits:
* Dedicated property and maintenance staff to call if anything goes wrong;* No back-breaking snow shoveling, lawn maintenance or pool/sauna care;* One single monthly rent cheque usually pays for everything (instead of several separate bills and fees when you own a house or a condo). You Get More for Your MoneyBelieve it or not, you can usually rent an apartment or house for much less than the cost of buying it – especially if you live in a larger city. And if you want to be right downtown, renting is almost always more affordable than owning a condo (and you get a lot more living space, as well, as downtown apartments are usually much larger than downtown condos).
As well, apartment renters don't have to come up with the thousands of dollars in down payments, closing costs and fees for things such as building inspections, legal counsel, land transfer taxes and insurance.
And this doesn’t even factor in the cost of borrowing – in the first five years of ownership, most mortgage payments are applied only to the interest, not the capital. This is money that you won’t get back when you sell your home (and you’ll still have all the hassles and extra costs of putting your house on the market). That Tax Break is Not GuaranteedGetting a big tax break is supposed to be one of the greatest advantages of owning a home – but you can’t always rely on getting this break. If your annual mortgage interest payment, plus any other deductions you are entitled to, isn’t greater than your standard tax deductions, you will not receive any tax benefit from owning a house.
If you rent an apartment, however, you’ll always receive some form of tax relief, as a large portion of your rent is tax deductible every year.
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Click, Click, Move: How the Internet is Changing How We Move

(ARA) - Moving season is upon us. According to the American Moving and Storage Association, half of all household moves take place between May and Labor Day. Overall, 43 million Americans move every year.
Planning a move can be time-consuming and nerve-wracking, but two things can help make the process go more smoothly: educating yourself through research, and working with a realtor you trust.
"In the last year, there has been an explosion of free real estate or rental information on the Internet," says Michael Yang, general manager, Yahoo! Real Estate. "More than ever before, potential buyers are better educated by access to home price estimates, comparable home sales, and satellite pictures of houses on the market and their neighborhoods. And the information is available without paying a penny."For apartments in New Jersey go to Raritan Crossing. They are pet friendly apartments and New Brunswick NJ apartments. Rentals near Metropark and apartments in Middlesex county. For apartments in central NJ this is the place for you with Apartments in Middlesex County NJ. Raritan Crossing has apartments near metropark, apartments near Rutgers and apartments near Robert Wood Johnson

Knowing the landlord

Knowing the landlord tenant laws in the state you will be living is an important thing to look into prior to actually securing an apartment, especially if this will be your first rental. The laws in every state have been enacted to lay the groundwork for an informed relationship between the two parties and can vary from place to place. Many of these details are spelled out in a document called a lease.Landlords will often protect their rights by doing things such as a credit check and contacting former landlords or references given by the potential renter. This can help them to make sure a person will be a responsible tenant.Those who are looking for an apartment will want to carefully evaluate the lease agreement to make certain they understand what will be expected of them, and that they can fulfill those obligations. The time to investigate tenant rights and responsibilities is before signing the lease and moving into a particular property.Most landlords are already aware of the laws that outline the rental relationship in their state. Those looking to rent an apartment may want to check out the laws on the Internet before beginning their search in earnest, especially if they are a new arrival to the area.
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Fire

Dense residential buildings like apartments and condominiums house many people in a small location. One mistake by a resident can turn into a deadly situation for the rest of the tenants at the apartment. Tenants should purchase some safety items when moving into an apartment and take some basic precautions.


Smoke Detectors and Fire Alarms

An item that every apartment unit should have is an electronic smoke detector. Smoke detectors should be placed on the ceiling near sleeping quarters so they can be heard if a fire erupts in the apartment. Smoke detectors should also be inspected annually to ensure proper battery levels and functionality.

Many apartments do not inspect smoke detectors, so it is important for every tenant to make sure that their smoke detector is functioning properly.

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Flea Markets

Many communities and colleges stage flea markets on weekends at large parking lots. Vendors set up their wares and you can wander around looking for what you need. Beware: you might not find what you need but you probably won't get away without buying something.
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Conduct the search

Step1Be prepared: Create a renter's re'sume' with your current and previous five addresses and landlord phone numbers, your employer and length of employment, your current salary and other income, personal references, among other information. Include a copy of your credit report (see How to Shop for a Mortgage, Step 5). You want to look as good on paper as possible to stand out from other applicants.

Step2-Look in the newspaper classifieds, apartment hunter publications, college campus bulletin boards, and online for available units to investigate. Ask friends about openings in their buildings.

Step3-Consider how much you can afford to pay. A good rule of thumb is no more than 30 percent of your take-home monthly income. Step4Enlist a rental agent to narrow your search. Depending on the market, this service may be free (paid for by landlords) or cost you a percentage of your rent when you land the apartment. Step5Turn to a roommate service if you're looking for cheaper space to share. Be clear what qualities you desire in a roommate, as well as types of people or habits you'd prefer to avoid, such as smokers

For apartments in New Jersey go to Raritan Crossing. They are pet friendly apartments and New Brunswick NJ apartments. Rentals near Metropark and apartments in Middlesex county. For apartments in central NJ this is the place for you with Apartments in Middlesex County NJ. Raritan Crossing has apartments near metropark, apartments near Rutgers and apartments near Robert Wood Johnson.

What to Look for Before You Move In

What to Look for Before You Move In

It is imperative to walk through your potential new apartment before you move in. Insist to the landlord that you see the actual apartment that you will be renting and NOT a model. For your convenience, Apartments.com has compiled this checklist for you to use as you complete your walk through. If there are any items that need to be repaired or replaced, make sure the landlord does this before you move in. If there is a significant amount of things wrong with the apartment, you might just want to pass on that particular apartment.
Look for:
Sufficient safety features including smoke detectors, fire extinguishers and carbon monoxide detectors. Look inside the apartment as well as in the hallways and in other common areas. Leaks in plumbing. Check out faucets, toilets and the pipes under kitchen cabinets. Check the water pressure in the unit. Also check the water temperature. How hot does the water get and how cold does it get. A good tip is to turn on the water in the shower when you walk into the unit and see how long it takes to get warm/hot (your bathing preference). Keep the shower on while you complete the rest of your walk through. The temperature should remain comfortable by the time you leave the unit. If the water is cold by the time that you leave, there’s a good chance that you could run out of hot water in the mornings. Not a good thing. Find out if there is an in-unit water heater or if there is one that is shared by multiple units. This will also affect the amount of hot water that runs to the apartment. Even though the water heater might be large enough, if it is shared, your neighbor upstairs might like to take early morning, hot showers that last an hour… Regardless of the size of the heater, if you shower after your neighbor, you’ll be cold. Check the water heater and furnace to make sure that these are free of rust. Look for rocks, stones or other debris on the outside of the heater or furnace. This debris or chipping may indicate leaks. These leaks could possibly indicate carbon monoxide problems. Again, not a good thing.

For apartments in New Jersey go to Raritan Crossing. They are pet friendly apartments and New Brunswick NJ apartments. Rentals near Metropark and apartments in Middlesex county. For apartments in central NJ this is the place for you with Apartments in Middlesex County NJ. Raritan Crossing has apartments near metropark, apartments near Rutgers and apartments near Robert Wood Johnson

Don’t…

Don’t…
Put your apartment key on the same ring as your car key. Keep them separate so that if your house keys are stolen the robber won’t have access to your car and vice versa. Leave valuables in the windows of your apartment or car. Place valuables in a secure place or in storage whenever possible. Leave notes for roommates or guests on your door saying that you are gone but will be home soon. Leave your clothing unattended in the laundry room. As much of a pain as it can be, you should always hang around when your clothing is washing or drying. Laundry can easily be stolen from unattended machines. Prop the lobby door open or allow others to do so. Give away personal information, including bank account passwords, your social security number or drivers license number, over the phone. Banks don’t need your password to access your account. Leave your car or apartment door unlocked, not even for a minute.
For apartments in New Jersey go to Raritan Crossing. They are pet friendly apartments and New Brunswick NJ apartments. Rentals near Metropark and apartments in Middlesex county. For apartments in central NJ this is the place for you with Apartments in Middlesex County NJ. Raritan Crossing has apartments near metropark, apartments near Rutgers and apartments near Robert Wood Johnson

Methods of Searching

Methods of Searching - Fee v. No Fee Rentals If you can afford to pay a broker's fee, searching with a broker is highly recommended for convenience. Brokers can give you an overview of the market, guide you in your search, and facilitate the paperwork for you. Some landlords list apartment availabilities exclusively through brokers.
Brokers charge a commission for their services. In Manhattan, expect to pay between `12%-15% of the year's rent. That means if your rent is $1,000 a month, the broker's fee works out to $1,000 x 12 x 15%, or $1,800. Fees outside of Manhattan are usually less, ranging from one month's rent to 12% of the year's rent. The fee is payable only at the time of lease signing. OCHA maintains a list of real estate brokers, many of whom will give a discount on their fees to CU students and affiliates. The larger firms have Web sites where you can search their listings in advance of contacting them. You can also check their most updated listings in the classified ads in The Village Voice, The New York Times and LOOT. Don't forget to ask if a student or Columbia corporate discount is available.
If you prefer not to pay a broker's fee, "no fee" searching options include:
Classified Ads - look for ads that say "no fee" or "by owner" as well as ads for sublets and shares. Landlords and Management Companies - Call directly and ask for a list of their vacancies. OCHA has compiled a list of some of the larger companies. Gabriel's Guide to Apartment Hunting is a book, which lists management companies, rental buildings and contact information. Online Search Sites - First check out OCHA’s Housing Registry listings. Then try the series of Web site links we have developed. Flat Fee Agencies - A flat fee ranging from $60-$250 is usually paid up-front for access to non-realtor fee listings.
For apartments in New Jersey go to Raritan Crossing. They are pet friendly apartments and New Brunswick NJ apartments. Rentals near Metropark and apartments in Middlesex county. For apartments in central NJ this is the place for you with Apartments in Middlesex County NJ. Raritan Crossing has apartments near metropark, apartments near Rutgers and apartments near Robert Wood Johnson.

How to pick art to fit the room

How to pick art to fit the room.
Size and color are the two major criteria for selecting art to fit its surroundings. For any particular space, art that is too large will overwhelm, and art that is too small will be lost and look out of proportion. The bolder the art, the more room it needs to breathe.
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Questions to Ask the Landlord

Questions to Ask the Landlord Here are some questions you should ask before signing the lease.
What is the length of the lease. Are there any penalties for breaking the lease or getting out the lease early? Any deposits required? Are the deposits refundable? Who does the yard work and the outdoor maintenance? Who does the indoor maintenance? Can you paint or repaper the walls? Can you hang paintings (with nails)? Can you alter the landscape (such as to install a garden)? Is the house insured against fire and damage (homeowners insurance)? Who pays the electric bill, water bill, telephone bill, etc?
For apartments in New Jersey go to Raritan Crossing. They are pet friendly apartments and New Brunswick NJ apartments. Rentals near Metropark and apartments in Middlesex county. For apartments in central NJ this is the place for you with Apartments in Middlesex County NJ. Raritan Crossing has apartments near metropark, apartments near Rutgers and apartments near Robert Wood Johnson.

Uncover Hidden Spaces to Find Instant Storage Solutions

Uncover Hidden Spaces to Find Instant Storage Solutions
(ARA) - What most Americans need is a space program on the home front. Space for all our stuff, that is.
Whether it's clothes, paperwork, tech toys, sports gear, hobby tools - or all of the above and more - our possessions need a place of their own, so our homes and our lives are easier to manage.
"A new season can be a great motivator for getting organized, but people are sometimes frustrated in their attempts to create order out of chaos, especially when every closet is already overflowing," says Doug Krieger, design director for Sauder.
One secret to success is to create new storage space in places you didn't even know you had. "There are a surprising number of unnoticed spots just waiting to be tapped for organization duty," Krieger says. "Find those hidden places, add the right storage item - from a bookshelf to a compact desk - and order can banish disorganization once and for all."

Krieger and the Sauder design team have created an online guide to home organization, with a host of clutter-busting tactics, at www.sauder.com/storagesolutions. Here are a few of their tips for turning unused areas of the home into orderly storage centers:
No built-in storage on the premises?
* Even the pantry and linen closet-deprived can conjure instant on-site storage. "A well-placed armoire on a wall outside the bath or bedroom creates a handy, attractive repository for fresh linens and towels," Krieger notes.
* Instant "built-in" modular units like Sauder's EZ Cubes create custom organization, whether for toiletries or cooking utensils.
* A diminutive kitchen cart can be tucked into this busy room's smallest space to provide an instant pantry for storing and serving snacks.
No place for paperwork and hobbies? These days, you don't need a spare room to set up a permanent home office or craft center, thanks to compact, fully-outfitted design options, Krieger says.
* Computer work stations and craft units fit into a corner of the bedroom or family room, and with the addition of a handsome screen or bookshelf divider, become a private getaway space.
* A computer armoire can enhance any room's décor by keeping essentials behind closed doors when work is done.
* For a flexible solution to the home office or hobby conundrum, mobile carts for computers and crafts allow the entire work center to be easily moved from room to room, depending on what's going on in the rest of the household.
For apartments in New Jersey go to Raritan Crossing. They are pet friendly apartments and New Brunswick NJ apartments. Rentals near Metropark and apartments in Middlesex county. For apartments in central NJ this is the place for you with Apartments in Middlesex County NJ. Raritan Crossing has apartments near metropark, apartments near Rutgers and apartments near Robert Wood Johnson

Before You Buy a New Bed Set

Before You Buy a New Bed Set

Mattress Guide Ideally, everyone would spend 8 hours each day in bed sleeping. Though not all of us have the time to follow this rule, we do spend a lot of time in bed and the bed we spend it in has a lot to do with how comfortable we are during the night and day. This is a big purchase and the decision should be made a little more scientifically than stretching out, fully clothed, on a store sample. We have some suggestions about buying a bed.Decide on the Right SizeIf you have a small bedroom, you might not have room for a king size bed, even if it's really what you want. So you can see how the size of your room is one factor to consider. Another thing to think about is whether you'll be slepping alone, in which any size bed will work; or will you be sharing the bed, in which case, you could choose a full size, queen or king sizes, or even an extra long bed.Chart of Bed and Sheet SizesWhat Size Bed is Right For You?Set Your BudgetAs with most things, the price of a bed set does not necessarily tell you how good a product it is or how comfortable you will be sleeping on the bed. Beds are priced from several hundreds of dollars to thousands. Don't skimp, but set your budget and stick to it.Luxury Bedding ManufacturersKnow How the Bed is MadeWhile an innerspring mattress with box spring foundation is the traditional construction of bed sets, there are now many new materials available. Memory foam mattress and air mattresses are two of the new popular styles. To find the best for you, ask friends, lie on some in the stores, spend a night in a good hotel, and try as many as you can. Check out options on the internet so you'll be a knowlegeable shopper.

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How To Sign an Apartment Lease

How To Sign an Apartment Lease: From Viewing the Apartment to Signing the LeaseBy Jennifer Lai, About.com
Lease Form You’ve found an apartment you love. Now what? Well, now you begin the process of signing the apartment lease, during which you must not let your desire for the apartment turn off all critical thinking faculties. You are about to part with a lot of money and sign a legally-binding document that is difficult to get out of, so remain focused during this last stretch by familiarizing yourself with how the lease signing works.
Difficulty: EasyTime Required: Anywhere from one day to a weekHere's How:Submit an apartment application. Not all landlords use apartment applications. Typically, only property management companies, who lose out if the apartment is taken off the market, require an apartment application.
Individual landlords most likely won’t have you submit an application.
Pay an application fee (if any). When submitting the application, you’ll also pay a non-refundable application fee (also known as the application deposit). If you decide not to sign the lease, the application fee will not be returned to you. If you do sign the lease, the fee will either be returned or go into your security deposit.
Give the landlord the okay to perform a credit check. The purpose of the credit check is to check out whether you pay your bills on time. The landlord will ask you to pay the amount to cover the cost of the credit check and ask for your social security number. Or you can submit a copy of your credit report, which you can obtain prior to looking for apartments. Please note that many landlords consider a tenant with no credit history to be just as undesirable as one with a bad history.
Give the landlord the necessary information to contact your previous landlords. In addition to checking your credit history, the landlord verifies that you are a reliable tenant by contacting previous landlords. If you want to expedite this process, you can contact them prior to looking at apartments and ask them to write you a reference letter. You can then present this to the landlord right away.
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Subleasing Your Apartment

Subleasing Your Apartment Writing a Good Sublet AdBy Jennifer Lai, About.com
See More About:sublettingapartment adsapartment listings
Generate interest in your available sublet by writing a catchy, easy-to-read apartment listing.
Online Apartment ListingsIf you're posting your sublet ad online, follow these guidelines: Keep sentences short. Computer screens are not designed for long sentences. Eyes start to wonder, and the brain has a difficult time processing the information. Bullet-point apartment attributes. Instead of phrasing in a sentence that your apartment has two bedrooms, a balcony, doorman, etc., list these out with bullet points. Try to avoid writing paragraphs as much as possible. They're very difficult to read and process. Include photographs. Photographs not only give the eye something to rest on when staring at a computer screen, but they help sell your apartment. Remember, a picture is worth a thousand words. Make your contact information easy to find. Don't bury your email address or phone number in a paragraph. Separate all contact info into its own paragraph, preferably at the end and beginning. Use all-caps sparingly. On the computer, sentences and phrases that are written all in capital letters make the reader feel like they're being shouted at—not a feeling you want them to have. Paper FlyersFollow these guidelines for paper flyers: Type out the flyer. Don't hand-write your apartment flyer. A typewritten flyer is easier to read and makes you look more professional. Bullet-point key apartment attributes in large font. List out main attributes and make it easy enough to read from a foot or two away. Since reading a flyer is easier than reading a computer screen, you can write longer sentences and paragraphs. Use the largest font for the rent amount, the number of bedrooms and the available date. These are the most important parts of your ad, and should be the first things people see. Add tear-off tabs. Include tabs at the bottom of the flyer with your contact info for people to tear off and take with them. I recommend including your name, phone number and a short phrase, such as "vacant apt." I've ripped off so many tabs before only to forget what they're for and throw them out. Print on color paper. If you can afford to buy a small packet of pastel-colored paper, go for it! This will definitely make your ad stand out among the other flyers. For apartments in New Jersey go to Raritan Crossing. They are pet friendly apartments and New Brunswick NJ apartments. Rentals near Metropark and apartments in Middlesex county. For apartments in central NJ this is the place for you with Apartments in Middlesex County NJ. Raritan Crossing has apartments near metropark, apartments near Rutgers and apartments near Robert Wood Johnson

Tools for Evaluating the Neighborhood

Tools for Evaluating the Neighborhood

Get to know various neighborhoods before you look for apartments. Check out crime rates, quality of schools, and more.
School ReportsHere's a tool from Monster.com, which allows you to review the statistical profile of many (but not all) schools in a given neighborhood.Neighborhood Red Flags: How to Decide if It's Right for You

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Gifts

When someone has a new home, it's nice to bring a gift on your first visit. Or if you've been invited to share a meal or special occasion, a simple hostess (or host) "thank you" gift is in order. Wondering if something is right or wrong? Let's talk about what NOT TO BRING, what to avoid at all costs, no matter what the temptation.
Do not recycle things you've received from someone else!This is a real "no-no!" You're bound to be found out sooner or later.
Don't bring any plants but the freshest.Many people don't do well with plants. Start out with something new and fresh, and it may actually last for a while.
Don't take something that you'd love but your friend wouldn't.Think about why you're taking a gift and choose something that you know they would love and use. You might even see if they have registered for gifts at a store. You know they either need or want those items.
Never offer a live pet.Think of how much work a new pet would take. Chances are, if your friends wanted a pet, they'd already have one.

For apartments in New Jersey go to Raritan Crossing. They are pet friendly apartments and New Brunswick NJ apartments. Rentals near Metropark and apartments in Middlesex county. For apartments in central NJ this is the place for you with Apartments in Middlesex County NJ. Raritan Crossing has apartments near metropark, apartments near Rutgers and apartments near Robert Wood Johnson

Single Room Living

Single Room Living
How to make small studio apartments look – and feel – more spaciousBy Lisa MortillaroA tiny studio apartment can function as well – and look as good – as a much larger home. Multipurpose furniture and a mimimum of clutter are key. Photo courtesy of Use What You Have Decorating.When interior decorator Miles Reed closes the lid on his bathtub, located in the bathroom, it suddenly becomes a chopping block, now located in the kitchen.Miles decorated his 550-square-foot New York studio apartment by concealing, elevating and stacking – three essentials of living comfortably in a small single space.There are definite challenges of living in one room. But with the correct balance of storage, dividers, furniture, color and lighting, a tiny studio apartment can resemble a four-room apartment. "Whether you rent or buy your living space," explains Lauri Ward, author of "Use What You Have Decorating" (Perigee, 1998; 226 pages, $15.95), "the quieter and more peaceful it is for you visually, the larger your space will feel."Cut clutter "No matter how creative you are with your décor," says Anne Wait, interior designer and owner of Los Angeles, Calif.-based AW Design Inc., "the key to single-room living is organization – removing every morsel of clutter." If it's not a piece of furniture or an important or usable accessory, it has no business in your home.
"If there's a lot going on around you, your eyes are forced to stop and start over and over again," says Ward. "By leaving one wall blank in every area, your living space will appear larger and feel more restful."
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What to Look for Before You Move In

What to Look for Before You Move In

It is imperative to walk through your potential new apartment before you move in. Insist to the landlord that you see the actual apartment that you will be renting and NOT a model. For your convenience, Apartments.com has compiled this checklist for you to use as you complete your walk through. If there are any items that need to be repaired or replaced, make sure the landlord does this before you move in. If there is a significant amount of things wrong with the apartment, you might just want to pass on that particular apartment.
Look for:
Sufficient safety features including smoke detectors, fire extinguishers and carbon monoxide detectors. Look inside the apartment as well as in the hallways and in other common areas. Leaks in plumbing. Check out faucets, toilets and the pipes under kitchen cabinets. Check the water pressure in the unit. Also check the water temperature. How hot does the water get and how cold does it get. A good tip is to turn on the water in the shower when you walk into the unit and see how long it takes to get warm/hot (your bathing preference). Keep the shower on while you complete the rest of your walk through. The temperature should remain comfortable by the time you leave the unit. If the water is cold by the time that you leave, there’s a good chance that you could run out of hot water in the mornings. Not a good thing. Find out if there is an in-unit water heater or if there is one that is shared by multiple units. This will also affect the amount of hot water that runs to the apartment. Even though the water heater might be large enough, if it is shared, your neighbor upstairs might like to take early morning, hot showers that last an hour… Regardless of the size of the heater, if you shower after your neighbor, you’ll be cold. Check the water heater and furnace to make sure that these are free of rust. Look for rocks, stones or other debris on the outside of the heater or furnace. This debris or chipping may indicate leaks. These leaks could possibly indicate carbon monoxide problems. Again, not a good thing. Make sure that all appliances in the unit work properly and are not damaged. If there is no washer and dryer in the unit, ask to see the common laundry area. Make sure the common area is well maintained and is well lighted. Make sure that access to the common laundry area is limited to residents only. Look for any evidence of insects or rodents, both on the floor in visible areas as well as inside cabinets, drawers and closets.

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How to Survive Moving

How to Survive Moving
Have you moved to a new state or country? Do you like the place? If you don't, try exploring some of the positive aspects of moving such as new places, new friends, and hopefully, a whole new adventure. This article aimed at children will tell you how to survive moving away for the first time.StepsWhen you find out you are leaving, get a notebook where all of your friends can leave contact information and well wishes for your new home. Call your old friends. E-mail, write, send packages, and ask them to send you packages to your new home. Try and make arrangements with your parents to see if you could go and visit your old friends or have your friends visit you. Make sure you try to make friends with a lot of people. If you don't like any of your new friends, find someone who you can at least turn to. Try not to stick to just one person. Try and find someone who you can trust with secrets and who is very respectful. Whenever you are down you can look to them to pour out all of your sadness. Sometimes it doesn't hurt to cry. Doing this in your room or with your parents can be useful. Sometimes you just need to let it all out. Don't think negatively about the place. Just think of it as an adventure. Find an activity, like a club or group to get involved in.
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Questions to Ask When you Rent

Questions to Ask When you Rent
How is the apartment heated and cooled? Check the units to see what shape they are in. Also ask what utilities are included in the rent and which ones are your responsibility as a renter. What is the maintenance policy? What fixes are included in the rent and which ones are not. If there are repairs that are not included in the rent, find out if there is an extra charge and how much it is. There should be a prompt emergency contact and a non-emergency line as well. Who are the neighbors? Inquire if many children live in the building or if people with pets live around you. What parking is available and is it included in the rent? Ask if any special permits are required to park in the lot or in the streets around the building. Do all the appliances work? Check all the appliances and sinks to be sure they are working properly.

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Don't be afraid of color.

Don't be afraid of color.
A little paint, throughout the whole apartment or just on one wall, can make a world of difference in terms of how you feel about your space. It can really warm up the cold box, says Jeanie Engelbach, who has taught budget decorating tricks to New Yorkers and whose colorful apartment has been featured on HGTV's Small Space, Big Style.
The fact is, most people aren't afraid of color — they're so afraid of not getting their security deposit back that they're willing to live with white walls, she says. "If white is the color scheme, at least use a superior quality of paint," she suggests. But her heart is with color. "I enthusiastically embrace color because paint can always be re-covered," she says. Case in point: She has repainted her 850-square-foot Greenwich Village apartment numerous times (she's lived there for more than 12 years) and has effectively used color to divide the space into functional areas.
There are other ways to add color without the commitment of painting, says designer Ron Marvin, mini-space expert on HGTV's Small Space, Big Style. We're talking everything from couches to bed linens, dishes to lampshades. "Add a punctuation point of color to your room with pillows on your bed, sofa and chairs. Or change out the knobs on the kitchen cabinets and go with something colorful," he says
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Sensible Burglary Prevention Measures

Sensible Burglary Prevention Measures Start with the Basics
(ARA) - It is always a busy season for burglars. According to FBI statistics, the greatest numbers of home burglaries occur in July, with August a close second. In 2004, for instance, burglars entered a house, apartment or condominium every 14.7 seconds, making off with valuables worth an average of $1,607 each time.
Art Noparstak, marketing manager for Intermatic, Inc. and spokesperson for the national Burglary Prevention Council, an organization dedicated to the prevention of residential burglaries, states, "Sixty-two percent of all burglaries occur in daylight hours, and almost a third are made without forced entry. Don't make the burglar's job too easy."
To prevent burglaries, Noparstak offers the following advice:
* Keep all doors, windows and garage doors closed and securely fastened. Doors should have deadbolt locks with at least a 1" throw and reinforced strike plate with 3" screws. All windows should have window locks.
* Cut up cartons for TVs, computers, stereos, etc. Tie the pieces together so a burglar going through the garbage does not see any of your highly valuable household items.
* Do not leave ladders or tools lying around outside.
* Install a wide-angle door viewer (peephole) in your front door so you can see who is at the door.
* Don't put your name and residential address on your key ring. If you happen to lose it, a dishonest person could gain entry to your home.
* Use timers on lights, radios and TVs. Set light timers to turn on and off and random times of the day and night, making your residence appear occupied.
* Keep shrubbery trimmed away from entrances and walkways.
* When service or delivery people come to your door, ask for ID. If you're still not sure, call the police first and report the stranger. Next, call the company to confirm.
* Make a home inventory list, complete with photos or video. Engrave items with your ID to help the police identify your belongings. Store this list in a safety deposit box.
* Post signs in conspicuous locations that clearly indicate that the premises are protected by a burglar alarm.
"Consumers should also consider installing a burglar alarm around their home," says Noparstak. "It is a myth that burglar alarms need to be high-tech and cost thousands of dollars. There are many affordable options available, including window, door and table top alarms."
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Rethink Your Rental

Rethink Your Rental Make a rental space your own on a modest budget by creatively updating your current wares and adding a few new items to the bunch. Check our tips and inspiration below.
Living Room
Think of your apartment as your own -- ask your landlord for permission to paint (offer to repaint when you leave), hang plenty of art, and install draperies. If wall color is off-limits, rethink the furnishings. Use large pieces, even in small spaces, to create interest in place of paint. Trying changing the shape of the room by placing a room divider in a corner -- it allows the eye to flow evenly across the room rather than interrupt it with abrupt corners.
Apple green is stylish without being too trendy. Pair it with a neutral brown sofa -- this custom design boasts clean lines and didn't cost much more than a retail sofa. A $99 IKEA coffee table makes a modern statement (and adds precious storage) in the small space.
It's the little things that make a white-box rental a home, such as adding graphic accent pillows for the couch and a rug to cover up standard apartment flooring. Even something as simple as placing a table lamp on top of a stack of books sends the message that the space belongs to you, not your landlord. If your living room must double as a home office, don't let the work space overpower the room. Opt for spacious filing cabinets topped with an inexpensive sheet of melamine for lots of storage space and minimal impact on the rest of the room. The lamp is a $10.95 thrift store find with a new shade.
Looking for another deal? These floor-to-ceiling drapery panels are sewn from silk shantung found online for only $11 a yard.
Keep office supplies from taking over your work area by storing them on a vintage tray. Adding personal trinkets affords you a moment's distraction while checking e-mail or paying bills.

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Dos and Don'ts of Dorm Decor

Dos and Don'ts of Dorm Decor
Check out our firsthand knowledge of everything you must know about decorating your first dorm room.
By Kaelin Tripp
Buy RightDon't: Overpurchase for your dorm room. The room will be small, so buying everything you see may not be the best -- for your room or for your budget.
Do: Wait until you settle into your room to add the small accessories. While it's tempting to buy all the cool dorm frills, take your time to make those purchases. Plus, items will go on sale a couple weeks after school starts.
Pack Up WiselyDon't: Bring everything you own from home. Paring down your possessions, and your clothes, will make it easier to move into your new space.
Do: Bring the essentials. Remember, you are sharing a room with someone else so there isn't room for everything, especially when it comes to clothes. If you live close to school leave most of your winter clothes at home until Thanksgiving break. Then swap for your warm-weather wardrobe during spring break.
Avoid an Overly Matched LookDon't: Declare that you and your roommate must have everything matching. After all, you could have a new roommate next year, or next semester.
Do: Chat with your roommate before you head to school to choose a color scheme that suits both of your tastes. Then choose your own coordinating items. This makes it easy to incorporate your own personality into your part of the room. Choosing bold colors with large patterns will add life to the dull white walls of a dorm.

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Cottage Style Decorating on a Budget!

Cottage Style Decorating on a Budget!
By Kathy WilsonThe Budget Decorator
Cottage decorating is meant for real living, which makes it perfect for the budget decorator!
Cottage style is a relaxed and casual style, reminiscent of a small vacation cottage in the woods, at the beach, or in the mountains. There are no rules, except everything is usable, feet can be put up on the furniture, and charming is the word of the day. That being said, there are certain things a budget decorator can do to bring the cottage style into ones home.
*Add white through the room. If you prefer color on your walls, remember to add lots of white and light colored accessories to brighten. White painted furniture, white plates on the wall and white fabric would all be great contrasts. If you have white walls, add a hint of color to them with a wash of the palest pastels, and color in the fabric.
*Use lots of fabric in the room. Slipcovers, pillows, and tablecloths are all hallmarks of a romantic vacation spot.
Combine patterns. An easy way to combine pattern in the cottage style is to look for different patterns that all have a white background and similar color schemes.
*Use mismatched furniture. A room should evolve over time for maximum charm, just be sure that the furniture is all casual in nature, and tie it together by painting it all white, or using the same fabric on each piece.
*Keep clutter down to a minimum. Have a place for everyday items, and keep your accessorizing to your favorite pieces.
You can even change them out with the seasons, just don’t feel the need to display everything you own at once.
*Creative use of everyday items are hallmarks of the cottage style. A garden bench makes a great coffee table, a tin bucket is a perfect magazine rack, and a yard sale pitcher makes a terrific vase. Look around your house at what you already own, and see how you can repurpose things with charm.
*Everything old is new again…weathered finishes, faded florals, and furnishings with history are ideal fits into the cottage décor. A budget decorators trick to avoiding the high price of antique furniture, garden accessories or architectural elements…buy them new at a discount or home improvement store, and age them yourself! Lattice, decorative shelf brackets, or tin buckets can be painted and sanded to look 100 years old, at a fraction of the price. Do a google search for "faux antique finishes" and you’ll have all the info you need to create a one of a kind vacation home cottage décor!
For apartments in New Jersey go to Raritan Crossing. They are pet friendly apartments and New Brunswick NJ apartments. Rentals near Metropark and apartments in Middlesex county. For apartments in central NJ this is the place for you.

Five Tips for Decorating a Girl’s Bedroom

Five Tips for Decorating a Girl’s Bedroom by: Melissa A. Boyd
Little girl's love to spend time in their bedrooms. It's a place all of their own. A place where they can not only sleep, but dream. What better way to help your child's dreams come true then by surrounding them with their favorite things! Decorating your child’s bedroom can be both a fun and rewarding experience for both of you. Here are five simple tips to get you started in the right direction:
Listen
The most important factor is to hear your child's ideas; after all it is "her" room you are decorating! Have her sit down and make a list of her favorite things from toys to television programs. Would she like to have a themed bedroom? Or would she like to utilize her favorite colors as a canvas for a potpourri of decor?
Children's Wall Art & Posters
Recycle
Make use of what is already in place. You will be amazed at how you can turn items already in her bedroom into something new! If her dresser has an attached mirror, remove it from the dresser base and place a new mirror directly to the wall. Change dresser knobs/and pulls. Flip posters around and let her draw her own masterpiece. Paint bedroom doors for a new bold look. Purchase a duvet cover for a quick bedding change.
Think Ahead
Like the seasons change, so does your child's likes and dislikes. As a parent you may have obtained a "feel” for this. Take this in account when decorating. Also, ask yourself if she will still love the hand painted mural of the fairy's garden a few months from now. Will she love the pink carpet when she is a teen? Explore less permanent options such as wall stick ups, framed art, and accent rugs.
Simple Impact
You can make a dramatic change by just adding splashes of color and texture. Add accent pillows and throws to bedding. Hang throws and tapestry from the wall. Change window treatments. Throw down accent rugs for quick impact.
Have Fun
Spending time with your child decorating her room should be fun. Explore each other's creative side by creating artwork, bulletin boards, and other decor crafts together. Throw a bedroom-makeover party for her and her friends. They can each make a decor item for the room.
These are just a few of the many tips and ideas to incorporate when beginning your decorating adventure. You’ll be sure to come up with plenty of your own by project’s end. Make sure and jot them down for next time. Yes, there will be next time!
Melissa A. Boyd is the creator of themes4kids.com, a comprehensive resource for decorating kid's bedrooms and baby nurseries. You will find bedroom themes, tips, articles, and much more!
For apartments in New Jersey go to Raritan Crossing. They are pet friendly apartments and New Brunswick NJ apartments. Rentals near Metropark and apartments in Middlesex county. For apartments in central NJ this is the place for you.

New Renter? Decorate Your New Home on a Budget!

New Renter? Decorate Your New Home on a Budget!By Kathy Wilson
Perhaps you are just starting out in your first apartment rental home, or are starting over again and you don't know how to begin decorating your new place? Here are some easy, inexpensive, landlord friendly ideas for making a space your own!
Choose a feeling you want in your apartment or rental home. Since apartments and rentals tend to be smaller spaces, choosing a set of feelings as a theme to cover the whole space can both visually enlarge the space, and make the job much less complicated. Want a relaxed, calming atmosphere to unwind in? Choose neutrals or cool colors such as blues and greens. Want to express your colorful personality? Try using bright, energetic color combinations.
If you are in need of furniture, check out yard sales, classified ads, and even thrift shops to save yourself big bucks. Keep your choices to simple pieces that will blend with any décor, in the case of a move or a change of taste. You can make a simple platform bed with concrete cinder clocks and ¾ inch plywood or mdf board. Futon mattresses are less expensive then regular mattresses, and can offer good firm support.
Add Some Personality. Now that you have a few pieces of furniture and have chosen your color scheme to represent the feeling of the room, its time to add some personality! Throw pillows and throw blankets add color and charm, warm up the room, and disguise imperfect furniture.
Most renters can't paint the walls, so add color in creative ways. Pick up a collection of dollar store frames, spray paint them black for sophistication, then frame unusual things such as pretty pieces of fabric, cd covers, soup can labels, or even sheet music! Pick something you love, then display them as a grouping on the wall.
Don't be afraid to paint that old furniture your Aunt Rose gave you. (Unless its an heirloom, of course!) Anything can be painted these days, even cheap laminate bookcases. Clean the piece well, sand lightly, then prime with a specialty primer such as KILZ Original. Now simply paint the piece with regular semi gloss house paint! You can add stenciling or stamps to give it a custom feel. Paint all the furniture one color to tie it together and make the room seem larger, or feel free to experiment and paint all the dining chairs a different color. (Remember "Friends"?)
Just because it's a rental doesn't mean it can't be home. Add your own stamp to each and every room giving it personality. Bring out those family photos, use that rug you made in the third grade as a seat cushion, or hang your Grandmothers costume jewelry from your chandelier. Use creativity, and learn to use your home to express yourself.
For apartments in New Jersey go to Raritan Crossing. They are pet friendly apartments and New Brunswick NJ apartments. Rentals near Metropark and apartments in Middlesex county. For apartments in central NJ this is the place for you

How To Clutter Control Your Child's Bedroom

How To Clutter Control Your Child's Bedroom by: Sherrie Le Masurier
Kid’s clutter. What a chore. Things are put away and in no time the room is messy again.
With a little clutter control, your frustration over your child’s messy bedroom will be a thing of the past. Just think of how great it will feel to no longer take one step forward and two steps back.
With some clutter control and a personalized organizational system your child will have a solid foundation in which to build and maintain a clean and tidy room upon.
Let’s begin with your child’s clothes. Sort through everything. Start with one big clothing pile or attack things drawer by drawer. Make sure your child is available to try stuff on and share their input re: favorite items.
Making your child part of the clutter control process can lend itself to some great one-on-one-time not to mention it can also be a great learning opportunity for her.
Start piles (or boxes) of out-of-season and outgrown clothing. Once compiled remove the unnecessary clothing from your child’s room. Or, at the very least store it on a higher shelf. The same goes for clothing your child hasn’t grown into yet. Box it up and store elsewhere.
Simplify the clothing that remains. Does your child really wear all 25 T-shirts or does she just favor a few?
One of the most genuine excuses children give for not hanging up their clothes is that they can’t reach the rods. Once you have purged the excess clothing, you need to make sure your child can access what’s left. Lower the closet rod and install shelves at child-accessible heights. Also consider investing in child-sized hangers and open plastic baskets or bins for socks and underwear.
Old fashioned ‘catchall’ toy boxes may be the answer for your child’s stuffed toy collection but for small toys and books think shelves, shallow bins or carts with see-through wire baskets.
You may even want to color-code shelves and bookcases. Come up with a color scheme that matches the room’s décor e.g. blue for books, green for games, and so on. The different colors will be a visual reminder of where things go.
Label everything. You don’t need to get fancy with professionally made labels. Simply print some out on your computer and tape on.
Now put the labels everywhere on the inside and outside of drawers, on shelf edges, on the outside of the plastic bins etc.
It’s all well and good to organize your child’s room but unless you devise a maintenance plan all your work will be for not. Create a maintenance checklist and tailor the effort to your child’s age and ability. Build regular room maintenance into her daily routine.
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Displaying and Storing Photographs

Displaying and Storing Photographs
Enjoying and Displaying Photos around the Home© Susan Whelan
May 4, 2008
There are many ways to display photos without increasing clutter. Take the time to display and enjoy some favourite family memories.Whether digital or film, photos are a great way to remember holidays, special family moments and other events and activities. Unfortunately, most photos end up either hidden away in boxes or photo albums or stored on a computer hard drive rarely, if ever, to be seen again.
Using Photo Albums or Photo Boxes
With large numbers of photos, a photo album or photo box is the most practical way to store and organise photos. Make sure that albums have acid-free pages to increase the longevity of the prints. Avoid storing albums in areas of high heat, damp or humidity.
Choose an album that has room for comments so that a date and a brief explanation of the people, place and/or event in the photos can be recorded. If using film photos, don’t make the mistake of putting all the photos from each film roll into the album just because they have been printed. Remove any that are out of focus and choose the best photo to display if there are multiples of a particular shot.
Photo boxes are great for those who want to minimise fuss with photos. Available at most department or discount stores, these boxes can store standard sized photos. Make sure that a date is written on the back of each photo. Many boxes have divider cards included and this is a good way to provide some order. Group chronologically or by event or location.
Keep a photo album or photo box on the coffee table so that family and guests can browse. Change the album regularly so that all photos can be viewed and shared.
Scrapbook to Record Special Memories
Scrapbooking is a popular hobby that allows people to create collages and display pages for photos.
Scrapbooking albums can easily take up as much room as a standard photo album, but only use a small number of photos. Scrapbooking pages aim to record the personality of an individual or group of people and the significance of a moment or event as much as simply being a way of displaying snapshots.
There are numerous scrapbooking how to books or computer programs to assist beginner scrapbookers. Scrapbooks make great coffee table books or gifts for special occasions. Photos can also be scrapbooked into framed pages or calendars for display.
Photo Frames
Frames are an easy way to display photos about the home, but they can result in clutter that distracts from the actual photo. Try to purchase frames with simple designs to reduce the appearance of clutter. Purchasing multiple frames in a similar style but different sizes will also help to keep collections of photo frames looking tidy.
Digital photo frames are a fantastic way of displaying a large number of photos without creating a messy, untidy home. Photos can be loaded onto the frame or a memory card and will cycle through to display each photo in turn in a continuous cycle. Frames can be purchased for as little as $60, which is significantly less than buying individual frames for each of the photos that need to be displayed.
Digital photo keyrings are also available and these make wonderful Christmas or birthday gifts as well as being ideal for Mothers’ Day or Fathers’ Day gifts.
Print Photos on Household Items
Many print and copy businesses as well as websites such as cafepress.com have facilities for printing photos onto T-shirts, coffee mugs, mouse mats, calendars and a variety of other household items. Family or holiday photos also make great computer screensavers or desktop images.
For apartments in New Jersey go to Raritan Crossing. They are pet friendly apartments and New Brunswick NJ apartments. Rentals near Metropark and apartments in Middlesex county. For apartments in central NJ this is the place for you.