Extra Income Archives - Hanover Mortgages

September 22, 2021

How Big is 2,000 Square Feet?

For some people, 2,000 square feet is a ton of space, but for others, it might as well be a tiny home. It all depends on your perspective, not to mention the sheer amount of junk that you own.

Wondering whether you can cram yourself and your worldly possessions into a space of this size? Let’s take a nice deep dive into how a 2,000-square-foot apartment literally measures up.

calculator and tape measure

How to calculate 2,000 square feet

First, it’s pretty important to know that a square foot is just that — picture a square that is one foot on each side. So, a 2,000-square-foot apartment is 2,000 of those bad boys laid out according to floor plan. Determining the square-footage of a space is a little trickier the bigger it gets. Still, it’s a useful skill and really isn’t difficult once you get the hang of it.

To get started, buy or borrow a 100-foot tape measure. You know, the kind that springs back at you way too fast if you don’t know what you’re doing. Also, grab a calculator (or just use your phone), as well as a pen and paper.

Before you get started, wander the unit and sketch the shape of the rooms. This is where you will write down the measurements for each room as you take them. If one room is oddly shaped (like a square with a rectangular nook on one end) it’s okay to split them up as if they’re separate rooms.

Next, for each room, you’ll need to measure the length and width. Record the measurements (in inches) on your crude drawing. Round up to the nearest inch. So, if a room is 20.6 inches long, write down 21 inches.

Once you’ve got all of the measurements noted, have a seat and whip out the old phone calculator. Divide each individual measurement by 12 to convert it into feet. For example, a 144-inch wide room divided by 12 inches is 12 feet. Do that for every single length and width.

Now, multiply each individual room’s length in feet by its width in feet. This will give you the square footage of that room. So, a room that is 8 feet wide by 7 feet long is 56 square feet. Feel free to make someone else do the calculations and use a square footage calculator.

Follow the same process with every room in the unit. Don’t forget closets and pantries! Once you have the square-footage for every room, add them all together. This will give you the final number for the whole apartment.

tennis courts

What does 2,000 square feet look like

It’s tougher to visualize 2,000 square feet than a smaller unit because it’s just so much bigger. Still, there are a few ways to look at it to give a better idea.

If you’re a tennis player, or are simply familiar with the playable area of the court, picture that to start. A standard court is 2,800 square feet within the lined areas. So, this does not include the areas that people can still technically run around on outside the baseline. If you remove the space on one side of the court from the service line to the base line (including the alleys from that point) the remaining area is much closer to 2,000 square feet.

If that’s making your head spin, picture a two-car garage. A space like that is roughly 400 square feet. So, five two-car garages is just about 2,000 square feet.

You can expect quite a bit more out of a 2,000 square-foot apartment than the average garage, however. Typically, units of this size have three or even four bedrooms, plus a kitchen, living area, walk-in closets and multiple bathrooms. Here’s a great example of a floor plan for such a space at 180 Riverside Boulevard in New York City’s Upper West Side.

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Of course, in that area of New York City such a unit will set you back about a zillion dollars a month, but at least you know what you’re working with, size-wise.

professional movers picking up couch

Tips for living in a 2,000 square foot apartment

A unit of any size comes with potential and challenges. Make life in your 2,000-square-foot apartment as seamless as possible and follow these easy tips.

Choose roommates wisely

In a unit this size, it’s likely that you’re sharing space with a buddy or two. No matter how much you love the person, make sure that you’re compatible before signing the lease. This includes preferences on cleanliness, frequency of overnight visitors, how to split the bills and so on. Nothing makes an otherwise roomy apartment feel smaller than a bad roommate pairing.

Take your time with decorating

It’s always exciting to move into a new space, but take a beat and get to know what you need and what you have to work with before splurging on new furniture. Be thorough with measurements of each piece before purchase because too much furniture can make a big space feel small and clunky.

Get professional help

A 2,000-square-foot rental is legit the size of a house, so it’s probably time to let your friends and family off the hook and hire professional movers, instead. They have all of the tools and know-how to get it done quicker and without potential injury. There are plenty of budget-friendly options out there, so get multiple quotes before selecting one.

Assign a multi-functional space

Some people only dream of having 2,000 square feet to work with. Use the extra area to your advantage and assign a bedroom double or even triple-duty! For example, if you expect the occasional guest, but also love painting and yoga, turn the room into a well-appointed guest/yoga/art room!

Commit to a clutter-free environment

More space often equals more purchases because there’s more room for storage. Keep it from getting out of control by purging regularly. For example, put a quarterly closet/bathroom/kitchen cleanout on the calendar and stick to it.

Another good rule of thumb is to donate a clothing item for each new one that you buy. That way, the closet doesn’t get out of control full. Plus, you don’t have to get more hangers. Really, it’s a win/win.

2,000 square feet, an apartment odyssey

Whether you’re sizing way up or scaling way back, life in a 2,000-square-foot apartment is as much of an adventure as you long for. Simply whip out the old tape measure and do some calculations to get ready for this next step in your journey.

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Source: apartmentguide.com

September 18, 2021

How Big is 1,000 Square Feet?

When searching for an apartment, listings often include the square footage of the space. However, it’s not always easy to picture exactly what that looks like. How big is 1,000 square feet, really? Knowing how to calculate square footage can go a long way in helping you decide if an apartment will meet your minimum space requirements or if you should skip it altogether.

How to calculate 1,000 square feet

Although the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) offers guidelines for determining residential square footage, following them is not mandatory. So, what you see listed as an apartment’s square footage may not, in fact, be the actual square footage. It’s important for you to measure the square footage yourself to ensure you have an accurate measurement.

Knowing how to calculate square footage is a simple process. Before taking any measurements, be sure to list all the apartment’s different rooms on a piece of paper so you measure them all, including hallways and closets.

Next, take a tape measure and, starting in the first room, measure the length and width of the room. Multiply those two numbers and write down the total next to that room’s name on your list. That’s the square footage for that room.

To make the math easier, round the measurement to the nearest half foot. So, if your bedroom is 11 feet, 8 inches by 8 feet, 6 inches, multiply 11.5 by 8.5. Your bedroom has approximately 98 square feet.

Measure all the rooms, closets and hallways in the apartment and add these numbers together to get the total square footage.

What does 1,000 square feet look like?

The actual layout of a 1,000-square-foot apartment varies, but it’s not uncommon to find an apartment with two bedrooms, two bathrooms, a kitchen and a combined living and dining area. While it’s hard to picture just how large this is, think of how big similar-sized items look.

For instance, the average two-car garage is 20-feet-by-20-feet, or 400 square feet. Picture two and a half two-car garages side by side. Another example is a regulation tennis court for singles matches, which measures 2,106 square feet, meaning the 1,000-square-foot apartment would be just less than half the size of the tennis court.

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Tips for living in a 1,000-square-foot apartment

If you decide to live in a 1,000-square-foot apartment, here are some ideas for making the most of your living space.

Use light colors to make the room look larger

If your landlord allows, paint the walls a light color that will reflect the light, making the room appear bigger. You can add pops of color and texture throughout by using pillows, flowers and artwork. If you do want color on your walls, consider painting just one wall, known as a statement wall. This can add focus to the room without making it seem smaller.

Adding plants throughout the apartment also brings a touch of color, which can make the rooms feel larger. If you don’t have the space for a small plant or tree to sit in a corner of the room, consider a hanging basket in a corner or placing some small pots on a wall shelf.

Use a few large furniture pieces

You may feel prompted to fill the rooms with several small furnishings such as accent chairs, side tables and bookshelves. Instead, choose a few large pieces that give the room a clean, uncluttered look. For instance, skip the love seat, side chairs, tables and ottomans and instead, go with a large sofa, coffee table and chair.

You also can use the sofa or a side table as a border to separate the living area from the dining area. Because these furnishings are low, they can serve as room dividers without making the room feel smaller.

Maximize storage space

Storage is a challenge for most people and it’s no different in a 1,000-square-foot apartment. Add in storage where you can without stuffing the rooms with cabinets or bookshelves.

When shopping for a coffee table, look for one with a built-in shelf or drawers. Add hooks to the inside of kitchen cabinet doors to hang utensils and measuring cups to free up cabinet and drawer space. Adding shelf risers in the kitchen and bathroom cabinets can double your storage space.

Of course, bookshelves are a great way to incorporate storage into a small apartment, but be careful not to cram everything onto those shelves. Otherwise, the room looks cluttered and messy, which diminishes the room’s appearance.

Use design tricks to make rooms look larger

You can actually make small rooms feel bigger with a few design tricks. For example, adding vertical lines to the room in the form of wallpaper, paint or window treatments can make rooms feel larger with higher ceilings.

Placing a mirror in a room also adds depth. Before settling on a place for the mirror, experiment with the light and reflection by putting it in a variety of spots to see which one offers the best effect. You could also make a statement wall by putting together a collection of mirrors in varying sizes.

Make use of baskets

Various basket sizes and shapes can help clean up the clutter while looking stylish at the same time. Use large round baskets in the living area to collect magazines and books. Use rectangle baskets to store sweaters, shirts or shoes under the bed. Another option is to roll up and store towels in a basket in the bathroom.

Take advantage of unused spaces, by placing baskets in corners or underneath side or coffee tables. Hanging baskets in the bathroom or kitchen offer even more storage for a variety of items without taking up much space.

Make the most of 1,000 square feet

Although 1,000 square feet doesn’t seem like much, especially when broken up into three or four different rooms, it’s actually quite comfortable. It’s just a matter of maximizing the décor, furnishings and storage to fit your lifestyle.

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Source: apartmentguide.com

September 18, 2021

How Big is 800 Square Feet?

So, you’ve found a new apartment to call home — the location looks nice and the utilities and amenities fit your needs. However, the size of the apartment is only 800 square feet and you start to wonder how big that is and what it actually looks like?

Trying to figure out the sizing of an apartment can feel challenging, but it shouldn’t. Here are some tips for measuring out square footage and deciding if an 800-square-foot apartment is the right choice for you.

How to calculate 800 square feet

While searching for a new apartment, you’ll sometimes come across listings that include the floor plans so you can easily visualize how big 800 square feet is. That’s not always the case, though, so it’s best to know how to calculate it on your own. Here’s what you need to do.

Gather supplies

Start off by gathering or purchasing all the necessary supplies you’ll need to do the measuring, including a measuring tape, pencil and paper to jot down notes.

Measure, measure, measure

Next, you’ll need to measure all the rooms in the apartment separately including bathrooms and closets. Go room by room and measure the length and the width of that room then multiply those two numbers. That number will be the square footage of that room.

Once you’ve done all the rooms, add all the numbers together and there you have it — the total square footage of the apartment.

Don’t forget to exclude some areas

It’s important to know that you don’t need to measure the rooms that aren’t livable, such as garages, patios and decks. Only heated, interior rooms are included in square-footage calculation.

What does 800 square feet look like?

To visualize it better, 800 square feet is about the size of five parking spaces or a little smaller than three school buses combined. Typically, in an 800-square-foot apartment, you’ll find either a one- or two-bedroom apartment. The bedrooms are small but they’re definitely livable. With 800 square feet, you’ll have more defined areas that will make your apartment feel more spacious.

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Tips for living in an 800-square-foot apartment

Moving into a smaller apartment is challenging. You might be wondering where you’re going to put all your stuff or how to make it feel bigger than it really is. Here are five tips on how to best live in an 800-square-foot apartment.

Go vertical

If you’re living in a smaller space, then every square foot is your friend. People forget about the vertical area on the wall or above doors and cabinets. Get rid of the clutter in your kitchen drawers by putting magnetic strips on the backsplash for knives. Stack your washer and dryer to save on space or put a shelf or cabinet above your door.

Once you start looking at everything in a new way, you’ll see all the possibilities. The walls are your friends!

Use multifunctional furniture

When shopping for furniture, look for pieces that serve dual purposes. Get a couch that has storage under it to keep your pillows and blankets or a coffee table with hidden storage. Use this extra space to store things that you don’t use often.

By making your furniture functional, you’ll create a much better living area. Also, design experts suggest buying bigger items to make the room seem larger. It may seem counterintuitive but bigger furniture can actually make the room look bigger.

Decorate with neutrals

Some landlords are picky about this, but if they allow you to repaint the apartment, use a nice bright white. The color white opens everything up and makes it feel more airy and open. By doing this, you’ll create the illusion of more area in your small apartment.

Contain the clutter

Clutter is the worst thing to have in a small area as it will make you feel overwhelmed and squished. It’s best to contain the clutter from the beginning. Instead of just throwing things into random places, use bins that stack and label them. You’ll then know where everything is and what’s in every bin. You’ll also have more space to sprawl out and relax.

Embrace the tiny

The truth is, if you’re living in a smaller area, you won’t get to keep everything you want. Embrace the tiny and rid yourself of unnecessary items. When you move into your new home, you’ll find yourself not missing the things you got rid of. Instead, you’ll feel lighter and realize you have everything you need in your 800 square feet.

Know your square footage

The exact square footage of your apartment is very important to know. By being able to visualize what 800 square feet looks like, you’ll know how much space you have and will be able to plan ahead of time. You’ll be able to prepare yourself and be able to make a better home in the long run.

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Source: apartmentguide.com

September 10, 2021

11 Things to Consider About Renting a Garage Apartment

With the rising costs of renting an apartment, finding an apartment within your budget may seem impossible. However, renting a garage apartment is often an affordable option to finding a great place to live without breaking the bank. But they might not work for everyone.

Before signing any rental agreement on a garage apartment, here are some things to consider:

1. Garage apartments may be more affordable

It’s no secret rent is increasing across the country. In fact, according to a 2021 Apartment Guide report, average rent prices have increased in more than half of all U.S. cities. Renting a garage apartment, though, is generally less expensive than traditional apartments.

While an apartment community owner wants a good return on investment, the homeowner usually wants to make a small income to help cover mortgage expenses. As such, they set a rental rate lower than those of traditional apartments.

2. Garage apartments may vary in size

According to the U.S. Census 2020 Characteristics of New Housing, the median size of multifamily units built for rent in 2020 was 1,075 square feet. A garage apartment, though, could be less than half that size.

The average one-car garage is 240 square feet, with the average two-car garage measuring 400 square feet. If the garage apartment is over the garage rather than in the garage itself, it’s possible it could be larger. Likewise, if the garage accommodates three or more cars, the garage apartment likely will be larger. These generally are in the minority of all garage apartments.

3. Garage apartments may not come fully equipped

When looking for an apartment, you expect them to have a full kitchen, bathroom, bedroom and living area. With a garage apartment, though, the kitchen may not have a refrigerator, dishwasher or stove. Also, you may not have a bedroom. Instead, there often is one open room with kitchen features in one corner, a bed in another corner and a couch in yet another corner.

In addition, not every garage apartment has central heating and air conditioning. It may not even have a window air conditioner or space heater —something you may have to supply yourself. A garage apartment also might not have wiring for cable, telephone or Internet services, which you may have to pay to get installed.

4. Garage apartments may provide more privacy — or not

While traditional apartment communities feature numerous neighbors, a garage apartment just has the homeowner and a few surrounding neighbors. If the garage apartment comes with its own private entrance, that can add to the level of privacy you will have.

However, if you have to go through the landlord’s home to access your apartment, that could be uncomfortable. If you have a nosy or chatty landlord, that could reduce your privacy, too.

5. Garage apartments may not have much parking

At apartment communities, renters usually have at least one guaranteed parking spot. That often isn’t the case with a garage apartment.

You may have to park on the street, or it’s possible you may not have space to park a car at the apartment at all. This also limits how many visitors you can have if there’s no parking available to them.

6. Garage apartments may not have any amenities

Apartment communities often come with a range of amenities such as a fitness center, swimming pool, tennis courts, laundry center and more. Unless the garage apartment is in a subdivision that offers these same amenities, you’ll have to skip them. Even with these amenities, you might not have access to them because you are not the property owner.

Of course, the upside is you aren’t paying extra for these amenities. That means your rent could be less expensive than in a traditional apartment.

7. Garage apartments may offer better locations

It’s not uncommon for apartment communities to pop up in high-traffic areas of town surrounded by retail, restaurants and busy streets. Many people thrive in these environments, but if you want something quieter, renting a garage apartment could be a great option.

Plus, you may find a garage apartment in a great neighborhood where you can’t quite afford to purchase or rent a home. With a garage apartment, you can still enjoy the neighborhood without spending a lot of money to live there.

8. Garage apartments may take longer for repairs

When living in an apartment community, if you experience a problem such as a damaged window or a leaky faucet, a call to the property manager usually results in a prompt repair. When renting a garage apartment, you may not receive the same level of response if you have a trouble spot in need of attention.

It’s important that your rental agreement contains specific provisions on how and when your landlord will respond to reported problems, so you aren’t left waiting for a repair.

9. Garage apartments sometimes are hard to insure

Renters insurance is essential for every renter to protect their personal belongings as well as protecting them against any liability for injuries or property damage.

However, not every insurance company offers renters insurance on garage apartments. If you plan on renting a garage apartment, you may have to jump through some extra hoops to get the coverage you need.

10. Garage apartments may need specific insurance taken out by the landlord

When renting an apartment in an apartment community, the property owner is required to have insurance on the building itself. Your renters insurance only covers the contents.

Likewise, a homeowner should have specific insurance coverage on the garage apartment that goes beyond regular homeowners insurance. Ask for a copy of the policy to ensure the property is adequately covered just like a traditional apartment.

11. Garage apartments are hard to find

If you decide renting a garage apartment is the right choice for you, you may have difficulty finding one to rent. They are not as readily available to find as traditional apartments, so be patient during your search.

Ask family, friends and co-workers if they know someone renting a garage apartment. Neighborhood Facebook groups also are a good source for finding any available garage apartments in the area you want to live.

Garage apartments are great for some renters

There certainly are pros and cons to renting a garage apartment, which you should review before signing any rental agreements. But for many renters, they could be the affordable, ideal choice for their next home.

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Source: apartmentguide.com

September 9, 2021

How Big is 400 Square Feet?

Whether you’re minimalist in nature, or simply can’t afford anything bigger doesn’t really matter. A 400-square-foot apartment can get the job done just fine, you just need to understand the space to make it into a home.

How to calculate 400 square feet

Chances are, the apartment community can tell you just how big a unit is down to the inch. But, if you want to figure out how to calculate the square feet yourself, it’s easy enough to do. Incidentally, this is also a helpful skill if you ever move into your own place and want to put in new flooring.

First, gather the materials. For this task, you will need a pen and paper, a calculator (the one on your phone is fine) and a 100-foot tape measure.
Next, sketch the shape of the room(s). In an apartment, they’re likely rectangular or square in nature, but it’s possible to stumble across a circular or irregularly shaped room.
Then, using the tape measure, measure the width and length of the room. Make sure to do this in inches, and round up to the nearest inch. Write down the measurements on paper.
Now, take the measurements and divide each by 12. This converts it into feet.
Finally, multiply the length by the width (in feet) to get the square footage. So, a room that’s 6 feet by 8 feet is 48 square feet. You can also use a square footage calculator if you want someone else to do the math.

Repeat with other rooms, if needed. Then add the square footage of each room together and that will give the total square footage of the unit.

What does 400 square feet look like?

It’s one thing to say that a space is 400 square feet. It’s quite another to really understand what that means. Probably the best way to visualize this size is to picture a standard two-car garage. Give or take a few feet, that’s a pretty accurate depiction of how much space you’ll have to work with.

If you’re in the market for a 400-square-foot unit, don’t expect a McMansion or anything like one. Instead, think along the lines of cozy and functional for this new home. The below studio floor plan for a unit in the building 600 Washington in Downtown Manhattan is a great example of what to expect.

400 square foot apartment

With a living area, kitchen, bathroom and all-important walk-in closet, what else could a renter possibly need?

Tips for living in a 400 square foot apartment

If the minimalist movement has taught us anything, it’s that people really don’t need a ton of space and stuff to get by. Here are some helpful tips for maximizing a space that’s on the smaller side:

1. Purge unnecessary items

If you plan to relocate from a larger home, take a long, hard look at everything you want to bring. A 400-square-foot unit won’t have room for a collection of 16 slightly different scarves, and chances are you don’t really need them, anyway. Clear out everything but the must-haves, and don’t forget the kitchen in this regard. An electric wok or air fryer is definitely too extra in such a small place!

2. Buy only what you need

People in 400-square-foot apartments do not need Costco memberships. Instead, plan meals and snacks and purchase only what you need for a few days or a week’s time. Use a grocery delivery service to control how much you buy. It’s much easier to make silly impulse selections in person than it is if you have a list on an app and stick to it.

3. Clean as you go

Don’t get trapped under a pile of accumulated takeout wrappings and laundry. Keep your small space consistently tidy from the get-go and it’ll be much more livable. Plus, you won’t attract bugs and rodents and such. In a studio, an unmade bed really wrecks the vibe, so be sure to accomplish this tiny chore every day.

storage in small apartment

4. Invest in storage solutions

Whether the unit has a walk-in closet or not, chances are you’ll benefit from some creative storage solutions. Hit the local organizational shop for storage items to go under the bed, in the cabinets, on the walls and more. A capsule wardrobe is a great option for people with either too little closet space or too many clothes.

5. Use versatile furniture

Instead of chairs for guest seating in the living area, grab some bean bags or cushions that stack so they can stay out of sight when not in use. In place of a big, bulky couch, select a futon that can double as your bed or one for a guest. A television table that can do extra duty as a desk is another easy workaround. Some people even choose to nix the TV altogether and use laptop or iPad screens, instead. Whatever you choose, shoot for a blend of functionality, as well as your own personal style.

You can do a lot with 400 square feet

Sure, it sounds small, but once you understand how big is 400 square feet, you will realize you can do a lot with the space. Measure accurately, decorate/organize accordingly and enjoy!

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Source: apartmentguide.com

September 2, 2021

What is a Micro Unit?

Rents seem to keep going up, no matter where you are in the country. While it’s still possible to find a deal, thinking smaller can also be an option if you’re looking to stay on budget. Many city planners and developers are turning to build micro-units to house more people within city centers to fight the affordable housing crisis.

For others, lower rents or proximity to their desired neighborhood, according to this 2015 report, drives their interest in micro-units. Micro-units tend to target young professionals in their 20s and other singles.

Thinking of living small? Keep reading to see if it fits your lifestyle.

Micro unit defined: What is a micro-apartment?

Studio apartment.

Micro units are very small apartments, typically less than 350 square feet — slightly larger than a one-car garage. Think of a tiny home, but an apartment instead. You’ve most likely seen them in Japan and Europe.

In the last decade, New York and Seattle have seen a surge in availability to accommodate their growing populations. The only thing to keep in mind: size requirements aren’t always the same. In San Francisco, for example, legislation passed allowing apartments as small as 220 square feet.

While you trade-off space, you may gain savings from the lower monthly rent as well as lower utility bills, thanks to its energy efficiency. Each unit usually comes with a small kitchen and a bathroom, or there’s a shared kitchenette with the unit only for sleeping. The buildings often offer more amenities as well.

However, since micro-unit apartments are often not regulated, the rents may be higher than a standard studio apartment. But usually, what wins out is the location for prospective micro-unit renters.

What does a micro-unit look like?

Tiny kitchen.

A micro-unit apartment focuses on efficiency. The unit is a smaller studio with an open concept area that includes a small bathroom and kitchenette. Depending on the complex, the unit will offer a Murphy bed option to save space and create a living room. It may also include modular furniture that has more than one way to use it — think a wall bookcase also contains a table.

Some complexes may offer a shared kitchen option in a communal space instead, so the small unit is only used for sleeping.

Most units are eco-friendly with low-carbon footprints, and the complexes often offer luxury amenities like car-sharing discounts, communal lounges and pet perks. Cubix North Park in Seattle (shown above) provides 231-square-feet studios for $995.

Pros of a micro-unit

Micro-unit.

Let’s talk about the positive features of a micro-unit apartment and how it can benefit your lifestyle.

Lower monthly rent

The main appeal of micro-unit apartments is the allure of lower rent for a better location and maybe even kicking your car to the curb. In Urban Land Institute report, most respondents surveyed expected micro-unit apartment’s monthly rent around 21 percent to 30 percent less than that of a comparable studio.

Just make sure you do your research. In some cities, standard studios are the same or less than a micro-unit in the same neighborhood.

Eco-friendly amenities

A significant perk of this kind of unit is that developers kept eco-friendliness in mind when building. Complexes use eco-friendly products and LEED-certified appliances and fixtures to keep costs down for them and you. Believe it or not, you’re also saving money and the environment by not buying more furniture and things for your apartment.

Get rid of clutter

If you hug it, does it bring you joy? If you hate clutter and live a very minimalistic life, micro-units will alleviate the stress of finding more storage. You can easily optimize your small space for what you have and just practice ‘one in, one out’ without worrying about clutter.

Location, location

The trade-off for less space? Location. If you’re looking for a place closer to work, public transportation and nightlife without affecting your wallet too much, micro-units are the way to make your city life dreams come true.

Cons of a micro-unit

While there are plenty of pros, it’s good to balance out the cons you may not consider when thinking about micro-unit apartments.

Higher price tag

Because micro-units are the new thing, they can also be incredibly price-prohibitive in certain areas. While the amenities and location may sound tempting, check for market rates and protect yourself before signing a lease.

Potential mental and health risks

The smaller space, no actual outdoor options, not entertaining friends or guests and increased stress can quickly escalate as health risks for those in micro-unit apartments. Feeling isolated can affect your mental health in such a small space. You must understand your lifestyle and mental health balance before agreeing to live in a smaller space.

Not ideal for families or roommates

While most people who choose micro-unit apartments are single professionals, micro-unit apartments are affordable housing options. However, it is difficult to live with others in such a small space, so it isn’t a good option for families or sharing with others. They’re often not pet-friendly either.

Finding a micro-unit

People choose micro-units for a better location, lower rent or just because you like having a smaller space. It’s truly an excellent option for you if it fits your lifestyle. Whatever your reason is to live in under 350-square-feet, you can find micro-unit apartments in your city right on Apartment Guide.

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Source: apartmentguide.com

August 25, 2021

The 20 Best Neighborhoods in Salt Lake City in 2021

What started as a pioneer settlement has now grown into one of the most desirable cities in the western United States. Salt Lake City is one of, if not the best places to live in Utah. Due to recent events and changes in the remote work environment, crowds are flocking to the valley to take up permanent residence and it’s also quickly becoming a hub for tech companies.

While there truly isn’t a terrible place to live in the city, some areas are better than others when it comes to shopping, dining, architecture, views and a few other factors. Here are the best neighborhoods in Salt Lake City to give you an idea of what most residents enjoy about where they live.

Salt Lake City.

Potentially the most desirable neighborhood in Salt Lake, The Avenues have a little bit of everything. It’s nestled in the northeastern corner of the valley, offering great views of the city. Plus, its charming historic homes and family-owned restaurants create a quiet, quaint atmosphere.

Since it’s just at the foot of the mountains, there are plenty of hiking trails literally at your doorstep. There are many parks and walkable areas, perfect for anyone wanting an active lifestyle or who has pets that like spending time outdoors.

Full of unique restaurants, bars and coffee shops, Sugarhouse is a lively neighborhood where you’ll never be bored. With the University of Utah and Westminster close by, many students live in the area. However, there’s also a mix of established families and young professionals in the area.

Sugarhouse is walk- and bike-friendly. Most major roads have bike lanes and wide sidewalks to keep them safe for bikers and pedestrians. Plus, everything you could ever need is within walking distance. Whether you’re looking for groceries, boutiques or a cool cafe to spend the afternoon in, it’s close by.

Capitol Hill in Salt Lake City, Utah.

Capitol Hill, named for its location around the state capitol building, tends to attract many young professionals. It has plenty of parks for outdoor enjoyment and bars for indoor entertainment and mingling.

The homes and apartments in this neighborhood are mostly older buildings that have gone through renovations. While the buildings maintain their original charm, so you’ll see that they have a clean, modernized touch. Capitol Hill also has some of the most incredible views of the city, overlooking the entire valley. Notably, it has views of downtown and Temple Square. This view is especially stunning during the winter holidays, the Fourth of July and the local Pioneer Day celebrations.

Salt Lake City’s most active area is certainly Downtown. There are more restaurants, cafes, bars than anyone could probably visit in their lifetime. There’s also great shopping—anything from small boutiques to large commercial shopping centers.

Many people both live and work downtown, often walking, biking or taking the UTA TRAX whenever they need to get somewhere. In fact, the downtown area has some of the best walk, bike and overall transit scores in the valley. Its walk, bike and transit scores are 87, 93 and 69, respectively. So owning a car is purely optional for residents here.

The coveted 9th and 9th neighborhood is a well-known shopping and eating hangout. Filled with boutiques and delicious restaurants, it has a very calm, leisurely feel to it. The relaxing vibe is partially created by the amazing art that is around every corner. The other great part of 9th and 9th is the fun people you can find behind every door.

Homes in this area seem a little on the small side, but they’re both funky and chic. Pulling from the old architecture of original houses built in the early 1900s, the homes mix in newer stylings to stay modern.

Salt Lake City.

Yalecrest initially attracts students who are attending school across the street — at the University of Utah. But once they finish their studies, they end up staying years after the fact. Its easily walkable streets are very safe. And the neighborhood has enough local stores and restaurants that owning a car isn’t necessary for day-to-day life. Plus, it’s near the UTA TRAX and bus lines in case you do need to travel further.

If you’re a fan of Tudor-style architecture, Yalecrest is a visual treat. It’s not a typical cookie-cutter suburb — it’s full of unique homes of all designs, complete with brick and exposed wood beams.

The East Bench neighborhood is known for its unobstructed views stretching all the way over to the Great Salt Lake. The neighborhood is over the side of the eastern mountains lining the valley. While many of its residents are older and more established, there are also many younger families taking up residency.

East Bench is further away from the busy city, but it’s still close to everything you could need. It’s also only a 10-minute drive to downtown, where there’s great entertainment and food. Residents are out of the constant city bustle but they still enjoy the city perks.

At the heart of downtown Salt Lake, Temple Square and the surrounding streets are surprisingly calm and kept very neat and tidy. Many members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints live and work in the area (depending on what you’re after, this could be a pro or a con).

You’ll find lots of church history museums, along with other church-owned properties. Such properties include a large tabernacle, a conference center, and, of course, the Salt Lake Temple. The area is very walkable and near lots of public transportation, including the UTA TRAX and FrontRunner.

Perhaps the best park in Salt Lake, Sugar House Park is not only big, but it’s beautiful. It boasts beautiful views of the mountains, lots of trees, a pond and various sports courts.

The Sugar House Park neighborhood is also near a large shopping and dining center right off the freeway. Everything is at your fingertips and it makes owning a car unnecessary.

As its name suggests, the Westminster neighborhood surrounds Westminster College. It’s no surprise that there are many students living in the area. However, students aren’t the only ones enjoying the neighborhood.

Being so close to a shopping and dining hub, this neighborhood draws in the crowds. Here, you can enjoy good food and fun bars, many of which have classic bar games like pool and darts. You’ve also got a few parks nearby. Liberty Park is one of the best, there’s always an event happening and you can catch live music, markets and festivals.

Right off the freeway at the mouth of Parley’s Canyon, The Country Club is a classy neighborhood full of larger homes. By “larger homes,” we mean in comparison to the other smaller historic homes typically found in Salt Lake.

This neighborhood encircles a large country club with a golf course. Many of its residents fall under the “well established” category of older folks who have done well for themselves. You won’t find better-kept homes or yards anywhere in the valley and even strolling through the streets is a treat in and of itself.

Salt Lake City neighborhood.

Highland Park is a fun, eclectic area with a combination of shopping and dining like you’ve never seen before. Instead of boutiques and chain restaurants, you’ll find the likes of stores selling plants, yard decor and secondhand books, along with classic Dutch and Greek cuisine.

It is truly a one-of-a-kind neighborhood that transports residents and visitors to different places and times. However, if that’s not your cup of tea, you’re right off the freeway and less than 15 minutes from downtown.

Sandwiched between downtown and the University of Utah, East Central is home to many young residents. Many of those living here are attending school or just starting out in their careers. Walking is a reasonable mode of transportation and you’ll find not only everything you need to live nearby but the added benefits of concerts, live theater shows and museums.

Those living in East Central are in it for both work and play, and you’ll find a good community of social beings there.

The mellow, tree-lined streets of Wasatch Hollow are home to a wide range of people of all ages and various backgrounds. This neighborhood has a close sense of community, where people live for a long time and watch out for each other.

There are plenty of parks for taking a walk or spending a nice afternoon. And the many coffee shops scattered throughout the streets provide a place to meet other locals, see art from up-and-coming artists and experience live music.

This Is The Place Heritage Park.

Like East Bench, Sunnyside East has amazing views across the valley to the Great Salt Lake. However, it is slightly more secluded. This neighborhood contains the Hogle Zoo and This Is The Place Heritage Park, where you can attend various events all year long, including holidays — such as Zoo Lights and a German-style Christmas market.

Because it’s further from things, you’ll likely need a car if you live here. But the proximity to multiple hiking trails and stunning views of both the mountains above and the city below are worth the trade-off.

Adjacent to the Bonneville Golf Course, Bonneville Hills is in a prime location near just about everything. It’s only a few minutes from downtown, the University of Utah, the Hogle Zoo, This Is The Place Heritage Park, restaurants, bars, cafes, shopping — you name it and it’s within reasonable walking distance or a short drive.

Although it’s reasonably close to the University of Utah, residents of the neighborhood include families and young professionals, with only a few students in the mix.

Park in Salt Lake City, UT.

Central City is full of young professionals who bring a vibrant, artistic vibe with them. Here you’ll find loads of indie coffee shops and cafes, many of which have extraordinary menus that cater to the residents of the neighborhood.

Because Central City is near downtown, there are many opportunities to experience live performances of all kinds, whether it’s music or comedy, and there’s lots of local art displayed in coffee shops, painted onto buildings and in galleries throughout the city.

With a good mix of young, old and everything in between, you’ll meet people from all walks of life in Liberty Wells. It’s also close to just about everything and has been seeing lots of improvements throughout the neighborhood, including new apartment buildings to provide housing for even more people in the area.

And although new buildings are popping up, there are still plenty of the old ones still standing, providing a good balance between vintage and modern architecture. Like many other neighborhoods in Salt Lake, Liberty Wells doesn’t lack food, drink or good company.

Tucked in the eastern corner of Salt Lake, just inside the hills is the University of Utah and the University District. While many students live in this area, there are also residents who work at the University of Utah. Those working for the University include a wide range of careers, not just teaching — there’s a hospital and various research centers connected to the university.

While you’re slightly further away from most shopping and dining, it’s just a few minutes down the road if you’re ever in the mood for it.

Red Iguana in Salt Lake City, UT.

Photo source: The Red Iguana Restaurant / Facebook

Fairpark is one of the more culturally diverse neighborhoods in Salt Lake City and with that comes some of the best culturally diverse restaurants in the valley. It’s home to one of the city’s most well-known restaurants, the Red Iguana, which is typically packed most evenings, but well worth the wait!

Apart from the food, Fairpark is near the heart of the city, so entertainment and nightlife are never far, and it’s near the freeway, giving access to anywhere else around Salt Lake, including ski resorts and hiking trails.

Which Salt Lake City neighborhood fits you?

These are only a few of the many neighborhoods in Salt Lake City and each of them has its own unique combination of offerings to residents. It’s important to choose a neighborhood that fits your personality and lifestyle, whether you’re buying a home for the long term or renting an apartment for a shorter period. With so many great options, you can find apartments for rent in Salt Lake City in a neighborhood that suits you!

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Source: apartmentguide.com

August 24, 2021

Buying a House vs Renting an Apartment: Why You Should Rent in 2022

In normal times, buying a house vs. renting an apartment was a question of priorities, budget and goals. But the pandemic happened and now we have the “new normal.”

Historically low home inventory, affordable interest rates and a cut-throat real estate market sent home prices soaring to record highs this summer. Factors favor sellers, not buyers. And the red hot housing market doesn’t show signs of cooling off yet.

So renting (vs. buying a house) can save money, increase the odds you’ll get the home you want in the future and help you avoid a stressful buying process.

Deciding whether to buy a house vs renting an apartment is always a complex decision. But for now, renting has some serious advantages.

House.

Home prices just hit a record high

It has never been more expensive to own a home in the U.S. than it is right now. The National Association of Realtors reported that the median existing-home price rose to $363,300 in June 2021. That’s a record high.

The median home price is up 23.4 percent from June 2020, the second-highest jump since January 1999. All four U.S. regions recorded a price jump.

In addition, many homebuyers will happily pay more than the asking price. In states like California and Colorado, 60 percent of renters paid more than the list price in March 2021.

Prices don’t look likely to drop anytime soon, since they’ve been rising steadily for almost a decade. Year-to-year gains have continued for 112 straight months.

Apartment prices are more stable

The average price of rent also went up during the pandemic, but the rise wasn’t nearly as dramatic. The cost of a one-bedroom apartment increased 4.63 percent nationwide between June 2020 and June 2021. The rental price of a two-bedroom apartment rose 3.43 percent during the same period.

Financial experts recommend spending no more than 30 percent of your gross pay on rent or a mortgage. The pandemic disrupted jobs and incomes, many renters are watching every penny in an attempt to keep housing costs under control.

A 2020 Entrata study revealed that the pandemic changed 42 percent of renters’ short-term housing plans. Of the renters surveyed, 16 percent renewed a current lease instead of buying a home. To cut costs, 13 percent moved to a cheaper apartment. Another 7 percent moved in with family or friends.

Cute house with red stairs.

Home sales are up and houses are going fast

It’s not just home prices that are up — the sheer number of home sales is climbing, too. And they don’t stay on the market for long.

Sales of existing single-family homes, condos and townhomes increased 1.4 percent between May and June 2021, according to The National Association of Realtors. June sales increased 22.9 percent from the previous year.

The amount of time a home spends on the market is also at an all-time low. In June, the National Association of Realtors reported that the average house was on the market for just 17 days.

Housing inventory is low, so choices are limited

Buying a house (vs. renting an apartment) is especially challenging right now because the U.S. is experiencing a housing supply shortage. There were half as many houses for sale (468,000) by February 2021 as there were a year earlier, according to Altos Research. That number includes condos, townhouses and single-family homes.

Older homeowners at increased risk of coronavirus stayed in their houses, limiting turnover. Some homeowners couldn’t find a new place to live in such a competitive market, while others clung to their existing home’s low mortgage during a time of financial uncertainly. More boomers welcomed home college-age and adult children back into the family home during the pandemic.

While the pandemic made the housing supply shortage worse — it didn’t cause it.

A National Association of Realtors report authored by the Rosen Consulting Group revealed that the U.S. is in the midst of an “underbuilding gap” of around 6 million housing units, a problem that dates all the way back to 2001. The 2007-2008 housing crash challenged the building industry and many construction workers found other jobs. A shortage of materials and disruptions in the supply chain drove building costs higher during the pandemic.

“Contractors are experiencing unprecedented intensity and range of cost increases, supply-chain disruptions, and worker shortages that have kept firms from increasing their workforces,” said Ken Simonson, chief economist with Associated General Contractors of America. He spoke to CNBC in May 2021. Apartment inventory increased in many neighborhoods

Apartment inventory is up in many cities and neighborhoods. More people buying homes means that more people are moving out of apartment apartments. That means renters have more options to choose from, especially in certain cities and neighborhoods.

When stay-at-home orders closed offices and non-essential businesses, many downtown districts grew quiet. Renters no longer needed close proximity to work and couldn’t enjoy the restaurants and entertainment that dense urban cores typically offer. People worked, studied and socialized at home, so extra space (both indoors and out) became a hot commodity.

As a result, many of the country’s most densely populated cities saw population losses during the pandemic. Suburbs and smaller cities nearby saw gains. This opened up many apartments in city centers around the nation.

Looking up housing prices.

Landlords are offering incentives

Increased inventory meant big savings and increased flexibility for renters in city centers and markets where housing prices decreased during the pandemic.

Landlords were quick to promote flexible leases early on. A National Apartment Association survey released in July 2020 found that two-thirds of landlords offered short-term leases to at least 10 percent of their residents. That was up from an average of 7.3 percent a year earlier. Many also waived fees for short-term leases.

Some property owners offered move-in specials like a free month’s rent or deep discounts to attract renters. Others reduced security deposits and pet deposits or waived miscellaneous fees.

This empowered renters to counteroffer and negotiate better deals. Many relocated to neighborhoods (and cities) that were out of their price range before the pandemic.

Competition for homes is fierce

Renters in a secure financial position enjoyed increased bargaining power. That wasn’t the case for potential home buyers.

Very low inventory means more people are competing for fewer homes. Houses sell fast, so potential buyers need to make offers almost immediately. Bidding wars frequently occur and homes often sell for more than the asking price.

To close the deal, some buyers pay in cash. Others waive inspection and appraisal fees to stay competitive, crossing their fingers that they won’t face costly repairs. Some even write “love letters” to entice sellers to pick them (which the NAR says could violate the Fair Housing Act) or try to bribe sellers with gifts, perks and incentives.

Forget buying your dream home — buying any home is an accomplishment in many markets in 2021. Renting is much less stressful right now.

House for rent.

Renting lets you try a neighborhood before you buy

Buying a house instead of renting an apartment often leaves you stuck in an area that maybe you aren’t too familiar with. Renting gives you a chance to experience a city or a neighborhood without making a long-term commitment.

It can help you make a more educated decision about where you live and determine if a particular neighborhood is a good fit.

That’s especially important right now since the pandemic has changed many neighborhoods — and what we want from them. Some businesses didn’t make it and others popped up to take their place, which changes everything from the flow of traffic to a neighborhood’s vibe.

Many patios, pedestrian zones and outdoor gathering places created during the pandemic are now permanent fixtures. Parks, bike trails and green spaces matter more to people who got in the habit of exercising outdoors.

Save money on maintenance and utilities when you rent

The pandemic hit many renters hard. The previously mentioned 2020 Entrata study said that 78 percent of renters cut their spending in response to COVID-related financial challenges.

A 2021 Apartment Guide study detailed how renters spent their first stimulus check. The largest percentage (19.96 percent) used it to pay rent. But paying utilities not covered by rent came in second at 18.29 percent.

Since at least some utilities are usually included in the rent, most renters have fewer expenses. In contrast, homeowners have to pay for heat, electricity, water and trash services.

They’re also responsible for maintenance like mowing and watering the lawn, landscaping and keeping sidewalks and driveways clear in the winter. These tasks take time and also require homeowners to purchase special equipment like mowers, hoses and shovels. At a moment when renters are keeping their budgets in check, adding expenses is an additional burden.

buying a house vs renting an apartment

Renting provides work from home flexibility

When you’re in virtual school or working from home, your home’s location doesn’t necessarily matter. You’re not tied to a particular neighborhood because it’s close to work or school or limited by the shortest commute. When you can choose your neighborhood based on the experiences you want to have, a whole new range of options unfolds.

Experts predict that working from home is here to stay. The Global Work From Home Experience Survey released in January 2021 states that 45 percent of 48 million full-time U.S. workers can do their job at home. Of these, 82 percent that they would like to sometimes work from home at least once a week.

The study estimates that if that 82 percent of workers actually did work from home for 2.5 days a week, employers could save more than $500 billion a year. In addition, every employee would save an average of $3,000 per year and gain back the equivalent of 14 days of commuting time. With savings like that, it’s no wonder that more American workers want a hybrid schedule.

“Our best estimate is that 25 to 30 percent of the workforce will be working-from-home multiple days a week by the end of 2021,” said Kate Lister, President of Global Workplace Analytics.

Rent vs. buy: It’s your call

Renting vs. buying a home is a personal decision that depends on your goals, budget and priorities. But a highly competitive and expensive housing market means that renting offers many clear advantages in 2021.

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Source: apartmentguide.com

August 24, 2021

13 Early Morning Jobs If You Want To Jump-Start Your Day

Whether you are looking for full-time early morning jobs, or if you are looking for a side hustle that you can squeeze in early in the morning, there are definitely early morning jobs out there.

early morning jobs

I know many people who side hustle in the morning as a way to make some extra money before they start their day job. Some people work a side job in the morning because it’s when they feel the most motivated.

I had several different early morning jobs when I was paying off my student loans. I usually woke up a couple of hours before I had to leave for my day job so that I could make extra money.

Finding jobs with morning hours allowed me to pay off my debt much more quickly. I was able to put all of my extra time towards making extra income, even if it meant I had to wake up very early.

While it was very tiring at times, working side jobs early in the morning is something that I am very happy I did because it helped me change my life!

There are many other reasons for why you may want an early morning job as well. This may include:

You’re a morning person and work best in the morning.
You’re wanting a work schedule that works well with other things going on in your life, such as going to school, managing a household, etc.
You want to get your work done early so that you have more daylight hours or evening hours when you’re out of work.

As you can see, there are many reasons for why you would want an early morning job.

Here are 13 early morning jobs.

1. Barista

Coffee shops are one of the first early morning jobs that I think of because everyone needs their coffee in the morning.

As a barista, you will most likely start quite early in the morning. You may be making drinks, ringing out customers, cleaning the coffee shop, and so on.

Related content:

2. Deliver newspapers

Delivering newspapers can be a good way to make some side money.

Usually, these shifts start very, very early, sometimes as early as 1 or 2 am.

When I was younger, I helped a friend’s family with their newspaper run whenever I’d sleep over at their house. They used their van to deliver a ton of newspapers, and I got to come along. We typically finished up when it was still dark — that’s how early we started!

3. Get paid to take surveys early in the morning

When I had student loans, one of the ways I would use my mornings to make extra money was by taking online surveys

It was easy to simply check my email inbox first thing in the morning to see if there were any surveys that I could get paid to take. If there were any I qualified for, I’d simply get them done quickly in the morning.

This was nice because there’s no commute, and I could literally sit in my pajamas and answer survey questions before I got ready for work.

Taking surveys would be one of the best early morning jobs for moms because you’re staying at home, and it’s very low stress.

You can get paid to answer surveys and test products, and survey sites are free to join. I recommend signing up for as many survey companies as you can so that you can get the most chances to get paid.

Below are the survey companies that I recommend joining:

Here are 11 Paid Online Survey Sites if you want to learn more.

4. Stockist

Stores tend to stock items in the morning hours before customers come into the store. Or, they do it in the morning right after they open because the store isn’t as busy.

As a stockist, you may work at a grocery store, retail clothing store, electronics store, and so on. You may even get a discount at the store you’re working at.

5. Resell items

This isn’t a job that is 100% in the morning, but many times when you are looking for items to resell, the morning is the best time to find things. Just think about when estate sales, yard sales, and garage sales start. They open first thing in the morning, so it’s the best time to find good items.

You can sell items that you find for resale in places such as:

Facebook buy/sell groups
Thrift stores
eBay
Craigslist

I recommend signing up for the free webinar Turn Your Passion For Visiting Thrift Stores, Yard Sales & Flea Markets Into A Profitable Reselling Business In As Little As 14 Days to learn how to make money by reselling items that you find.

6. Loading trailers at Fedex/UPS/etc.

These jobs can have shifts all throughout the day, but there are always early morning shifts that need to be filled.

With this early morning job, you may be loading and unloading packages into truck trailers, sorting packages depending on postal codes, and so on.

This is a very manual and tough job (due to moving large boxes all shift long), but it usually comes with benefits, like health insurance, tuition reimbursement, etc.

7. Pick up trash

Many businesses like trash to be picked up before their store opens so that customers are welcomed by a clean property.

This is a small business that you can start on your own, and you can get paid $30 to $50 an hour.

This is one of the early morning jobs that doesn’t take a lot of money to start. You will need a broom, dustpan, and grabber tools, and you can have a fairly flexible schedule.

You can learn more at Get Paid $30 – $50 Per Hour To Pick Up Trash.

8. Create a blog to work from home

One of the other side hustles that I did early in the morning before I went to work was that I would work on this blog.

I spent as much time in the morning as I could on my blog because it was when I had free time. It wasn’t usually for a super long time, but even just an hour in the morning each day would help me build my blogging business.

This is one of the best decisions that I’ve ever made. It helped me make extra money to pay off my student loans, I was able to quit my day job to blog full-time, I have a flexible schedule, I’m my own boss, and more.

You can learn how to start a blog with my free How To Start a Blog Course.

9. Freelancer

Freelancers are people who contract out their services to other businesses. One thing many freelancers like is that you can set your own hours, and the morning is a great time to work for some people.

I know freelancers who work in the morning before they go to their day job, moms who freelance in the morning with kids at home, and so on.

If you are interested in learning about different freelance opportunities, here are some ideas

And there’s so much more.

10. Teach English online

Working as an online English teacher is great early morning work if you have experience working with kids and have at least your bachelor’s degree. You can make around $14-$22 per hour, and you don’t need a degree in teaching or English.

Most companies have you teaching English to students in China, Korea, or Taiwan, so it works best for the time difference to teach in the early morning hours or late in the evening.

Here are the top three companies I recommend if you’re interested:

VIPKID
Qkids
Education First

11. Walk dogs

Walking dogs would be a fun way to make money in the morning if you’re a dog lover. Plus, you would get a nice walk in the morning before you start the rest of your day.

Dog walkers make around $15-$20 per walk, and some dog walkers walk multiple dogs at a time.

If you are wondering, “Where can I find early morning jobs near me for dog walking?” I recommend Rover. You can create a profile, list your services, and find dog walking clients where you live.

12. Do yard maintenance

One of the best times of the day to do yard work is in the morning, especially in the summer months because it gets so hot during the day.

You can mow laws, weed, trim, water plants, clean gutters, etc.

If you’re interested in making extra money doing yard maintenance, you can:

Create a Craigslist ad for your services
Advertise your services on your personal Facebook page
Bring flyers advertising your services around to different neighborhoods
List your services on online community bulletin boards

13. Personal trainer

Did you know that mornings are the most popular time to work out?

People love starting their day with a workout, which is why working as a personal trainer is one of the best early morning part-time jobs.

You can work as a personal trainer, yoga instructor, coach, or some other kind of fitness professional. You will need some kind of background or training to work those jobs, but you can also look at gyms in your area to see if they are hiring receptionists for early morning hours.

How do I get used to work early in the morning?

If you’re not a morning person, then working first thing in the morning may be an adjustment.

Here are my tips so that you can get used to working early in the morning:

Set an alarm. Okay, this is a no brainer, but if you find it hard to wake up with an alarm, then you may want to try different kinds of alarms. There are alarms that play music, alarms that mimic the sun rising (you can see these here), and more.
Go to bed earlier. You will most likely have to switch your sleeping habits so that you can get a full night’s rest.
Make sure to open your curtains/shades before going to sleep. This can help you to wake up with the sun.
Don’t rely on the snooze button. Just wake up! You will probably be more tired if you hit the snooze button over and over again.
Move your alarm across your bedroom. If you tend to hit snooze, then moving your alarm further away can help you wake up because you’ll have to get up to turn it off.

Learn more at 9 Tips To Wake Up Early & Why It Feels So Good.

What jobs require you to wake up early?

Besides the list of early morning jobs you’ve just read through, there are still many other jobs that require you to wake up early in the morning. And one of these may be one of the best early morning jobs for you.

Baker: Working in a bakery means you have to be up first thing in the morning.
Ticket agent: Airports need ticket agents to work first thing in the morning for those early flights.
Mail carrier: Postal workers start working first thing in the morning, and many finish their day in the early afternoon.
Truck driver: You will need a commercial trucking license for this job, and the early morning hours allow you to miss busy rush hour traffic.
Farm worker: Farmers are usually up before dawn starting on a long list of tasks, like feeding, milking, cleaning barns, planting, and more.

What are the best early morning jobs?

As you can see, there are many early morning jobs that may suit you.

Some start extremely early, such as just after midnight, and others may start at around 5 or 6 am. Some may have a more flexible schedule, and others may mean that you have to go in at an exact time each day.

There are plenty of options, you simply have to find what works best for you.

What do you think are the best early morning jobs?

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Source: makingsenseofcents.com

August 23, 2021

The 20 Best Neighborhoods in Chicago in 2021

Chicago is home to the Chicago Cubs, deep-dish pizza, Chicago Blues music and 2.7 million people. As the third-largest city in the United States, there is no shortage of things to do, see, taste or experience throughout the best neighborhoods in Chicago.

The city divides into 77 community areas, loosely called “neighborhoods” since there are several “neighborhoods” within a community area. For our purposes, each of the top 20 best neighborhoods in Chicago listed below is a neighborhood of its own except Near South Side, comprised of the South Loop and Printers Row (some argue Printers Row is part of the Loop). About 55 percent of Chicago residents rent, making it easy to find a place in a community you love.

Whether you’re seeking a neighborhood with easy access to dining and public transportation or a quieter family-oriented community, you easily can find the perfect spot and call Chicago home and find an affordable Chicago neighborhood.

Here are the 20 best neighborhoods in Chicago.

Those who live in Lincoln Park share a home with penguins, monkeys and animals from around the world. This popular north side Chicago neighborhood is also home to the Lincoln Park Zoo. DePaul University has a campus here as well. Plus, it’s easy to get to the lakefront trail, public transportation, restaurants and shops.

Lakeview, especially East Lakeview, is dense and busy. Locals know to walk or take public transportation if they want to get anywhere when the Chicago Cubs are playing at Wrigley Field because thousands descend upon their neighborhood to watch the game or hit up the bars in the area.

Boystown recently renamed Northalsted Chicago, is a welcoming community that hosts an annual LGBTQ Pride Parade, music festivals, Halloween parties and more.

West Lakeview is a bit more relaxed with families often parking baby strollers along Southport to catch brunch with friends on weekends or shopping right off the Southport Brown Line.

As the name of the neighborhood suggests, the West Loop is due west of the Loop. In what was once a meatpacking and warehouse district, industrial buildings have since been converted into trendy lofts or demolished to make room for luxury high-rise apartment and condo buildings.

This dense and trendy neighborhood has tons of restaurants and bars that often grace the top 10 listicles of places to eat or see and be seen. Chef Stephanie Izard’s Girl & the Goat is still popular a decade after it opened and plenty of restaurants along or near Restaurant Row sport Michelin stars.

South of Bucktown and north of West Town is the artsy enclave called Wicker Park which also happens to have a triangular park in the center of this trendy and bustling neighborhood.

Also, Milwaukee Avenue runs through it and the street features unique independent boutiques, restaurants and coffee shops.

Since Bucktown is so close to Wicker Park, the neighborhoods often do things together. It is a little calmer than its artsy neighbors like Wicker Park and Logan Square and more affordable than its neighbor to the east, Lincoln Park. It’s near the Kennedy Expressway, train and bus stops and downtown Chicago.

The Gold Coast, known for its money thanks to Astor Street, a charming six-block tree-lined street from Division Street to North Avenue filled with history, brownstones and mansions named after John Jacob Astor, one of the richest men of his time in the 1800s.

This area is still known for its affluent residents, great restaurants and upscale boutiques. It doesn’t hurt that many apartment buildings have Lake Michigan views since the neighborhood borders the lake and offers easy access to the beach and lakefront trail.

Logan Square has undergone a lot of transformation over the past few years. Large apartment buildings line busy Milwaukee Avenue, bringing even more density to a pretty dense neighborhood on the city’s northwest side. Young professionals and artists live alongside a dwindling working-class Latino population.

Trendy restaurants are replacing closed storefronts here. Also, residents love the Logan Square Farmers Market on Sundays. It is a popular open-air food market and community gathering place.

Expect to see strollers parked outside Café Selmarie as the bakery and café are in the heart of Lincoln Square and gets busy when families take their morning strolls. This family-friendly community is active with organizing farmers markets, summer concerts, wine strolls and more throughout the year.

Most of the activity happens along Lincoln Avenue. There are independent boutiques, restaurants and a folk-focused music school. Additionally, there is a 15-acre park that offers an indoor swimming pool and grounds to play baseball.

Old Town includes some new development but it’s also loaded with history and the area even has its own historic district, making this a shoo-in for one of the best neighborhoods in Chicago. It’s next to Lincoln Park and the Gold Coast, near Lake Michigan and the lakefront path. It has a community feel thanks to shorter high rises and single-family homes.

Also, the world-renowned The Second City, which introduced us to talent including Tina Fey, Stephen Colbert and Steve Carell, among hundreds of other famous comedians, puts on some of the best improv performances in the city.

The Loop got its name because the cable-car lines circled the business district in the 1880s and the name stuck as the CTA’s “el” formed a loop as well. The 35-block downtown area includes the business area. LaSalle Street is home to many large financial institutions including the Chicago Stock Exchange and the Chicago Board of Trade.

Residents in The Loop’s high rises simply have to walk a few blocks to access cultural attractions like The Art Institute of Chicago, Broadway in Chicago performances or enjoy opera and classical music at the Lyric Opera or Chicago Symphony Orchestra. While the famed Marshall Field’s is no longer on State Street, there is plenty of shopping to do.

West Town, west of River North and north of the West Loop, is a lively neighborhood. Chicago Avenue is where most of the commercial activity resides with restaurants, bars and cafes.

Along a nondescript alley between Noble and Bishop streets, many residents on Ohio and Erie streets have transformed their garages and buildings into works of art.

The Near South Side is mostly the South Loop but it also includes Printers Row (some consider Printers Row part of the Loop). Townhouses dot the area which is mostly high rises thanks to its proximity to the Loop and Lake Michigan.

The area is also home to the Museum Campus which includes the Field Museum, Shedd Aquarium and Adler Planetarium. Many can enjoy live music playing at Soldier Field whenever the Chicago Bears football team isn’t playing in the stadium even if they’re not in attendance since it’s in their backyard.

A’ville, as the locals like to call Andersonville, is a welcoming community and its residents are staunch advocates of local businesses. You’ll often find the sidewalks and businesses along Clark Avenue busy on weekends as that’s where most of the independent businesses, restaurants and bars are.

Within the neighborhood, located on the north side of the city and close to Lake Michigan, are a mix of three-flat apartment buildings, larger apartment buildings and single-family homes. It’s a great community for those who want easy access to the Loop without the hassle of busier neighborhoods closer to the Loop.

Since the University of Chicago campus is in Hyde Park, many students, faculty and staff live here. The area has great independent shops and restaurants as well as cultural institutions.

The annual Hyde Park Jazz Festival attracts residents from throughout the city and beyond as do the Museum of Science and Industry, the Smart Museum of Art and architect Frank Lloyd Wright’s Frederick C. Robie House, among other cultural attractions.

Located on the city’s south side, Bronzeville is historically known as the city’s “Black Metropolis.” The Monument of the Great Northern Migration honors the more than half a million African Americans who traveled from the south to Chicago from 1910 to 1970.

Walking along Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Drive, you’ll come across the home of civil rights activist Ida B. Wells. Considered the center of African American life and culture in Chicago, it’s a 15-minute drive to downtown Chicago or 20 to 25 minutes using public transportation.

Argyle Street has some of the best Vietnamese and Thai in the city but within Uptown you’ll also find restaurants serving great Chinese, Ethiopian and Mexican fare.

Located along Lake Michigan on the city’s north side and about five miles from the Loop, Uptown bustles with a very active live music and nightlife scene.

Music and entertainment venues include the Riviera Theatre (also known among locals as “the Riv”) which puts on concerts almost daily, the Green Mill cocktail lounge featuring live jazz and the Aragon Ballroom which features pop and rocks bands in its 5,000-capacity venue.

Three miles southwest from the Loop, Pilsen is one of Chicago’s most colorful neighborhoods.

A heavily Latino community supports a thriving art and music scene, active nightlife and delicious food, whether it’s from a tamale or corn street vendor, a bakery or one of the many restaurants. Colorful building murals are found throughout and the National Museum of Mexican Art attracts locals and visitors to its free museum daily (except Mondays, when it’s closed).

Artists live in lofts mostly around 18th Street and Halsted. Its nearby proximity to the University of Illinois at Chicago campus as well as the Loop make this neighborhood popular among students and young professionals.

Avondale is becoming more popular as residents move out of trendier neighboring communities like Logan Square. As a result, younger residents are moving into what was primarily a Polish community filled with restaurants and businesses catering to Polish residents.

Since the Kennedy Expressway runs right through the Chicago northwest side neighborhood and takes up such a large chunk, it doesn’t have as many public parks as other areas throughout the city. Still, it’s a close-knit community with easy access to public transportation.

The farthest north neighborhood along Lake Michigan, Rogers Park is one of the most diverse neighborhoods in the city. More than 80 languages are spoken in the community which also translates to a richness in its cuisine offerings. Many students call this area home since Loyola University has a campus here on the northern end of the neighborhood.

Many celebrities have been to the South Shore Cultural Center in the South Shore neighborhood. It’s also where President Barack Obama and First Lady Michelle Obama married. The neighborhood along Lake Michigan is nine miles south of the Loop.

Also, Rainbow Beach on East 77th Street is one of the city’s largest beaches. It features a gym, fitness center and community garden as well as a beach house with showers and a pier for boats to use.

Making a Chicago neighborhood home

The best Chicago neighborhood is the one that checks all the marks on your checklist. Each of these unique Chicago neighborhoods has a personality and depending on what you’re seeking, you’re sure to find the right home for your interests and needs.

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Source: apartmentguide.com