date night

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Coupons. Just the word alone causes a little thrill of excitement to shoot through me! I’m a long-time coupon user. From the early days of carefully cutting out coupons when I was real young, to the newer, sleek, digital method that I came to know later, I’m a sucker for savings! However, sometimes the process of finding those coupons and achieving those savings can make you feel like you’re hunting for a needle in a haystack, instead of the fun treasure hunt it really should be. And as a busy stay-at-home mom to a toddler, you better believe that my days fly by, and hunting down coupons isn’t something I can do for long periods of time, especially when I surface with none to speak of. For my sake, and your own, I found a few of the best places to find coupons so your own little coupon treasure hunt can go from gritty confusion to shimmering elation!

Where to Find the Best Physical Free Coupons

There’re numerous different places to find coupons, but for a moment let’s talk about free coupons. Which are some of the most fun coupons to stumble upon. Thanks to lots of research, no longer will you wander around in the dark trying to locate your discounts. We’ve got you covered!

One of the simplest places to locate physical free coupons is in the Sunday newspaper. I’m not sure how many people get the average Sunday paper anymore, but the number of coupons inside it is, I believe, absolutely worth it. Many papers have a small coupon insert in the centerfold, and that’s where the gem of coupons is contained. There’s usually a small subscription fee for a newspaper but nowadays a lot of publishers give you the option to subscribe to just the Sunday paper. (Or a great little life hack that I’ve personally used a few times, is picking up a Sunday paper at the Dollar Tree store, if your town has one.) True to their wonderful name, you can snag a paper for only a dollar. Newspapers are loaded with free coupons, many of which promote the items you buy on the regular, fun unique products, or discounts on experiences that you might otherwise have missed. Things like coupons for grocery stores, restaurants, and fun hot spots in your local community, are just a few examples of the nuggets of treasure found within those black-inked pages. Keep a sharp eye out for any weekly ads as well. Newspapers are really good a resource for that.

Another great place to find free coupons is the normal stores and retailers that you frequent on a weekly or even daily basis. These could be manufacturer’s coupons that are directly printed on, or attached to any product that you buy in the store. Meaning as soon as you’ve bought that product, the coupon is yours to use for your next purchase of that same product.

Perhaps one of my favorite ways to score some good old free coupons, is to take a second glance at the junk mail that seems to arrive almost daily, or mail advertisements. It’s happened a few times where I’ve actually stopped and looked carefully through the miscellaneous mail, and I’ve found a gem of a coupon or a discount on something amazing. A restaurant for a fun date night in our area that just opened, or even a percentage off of a decadent facial from a nearby Zen-soaked spa. That one was coupon gold, my friend. (The moms will get it!)

A resource that is just a bit newer in the coupon game is coupons.com. It’s strictly a coupon site in which they have a whole section of printable coupons. You can just go to the site, search for the easily found printable coupon page, print out and cut out to your delight. There’s something kind of soothing about cutting out physical coupons and if they’re free, so much the better, in my opinion.

Where to Find the Best Digital Coupons

As with most things these days, they have a digital counterpart. Coupons are no exception. For this next batch of coupon-hunting ideas, you can set aside those sharp scissors and give your snipping hand a rest. Instead, you can pick up your phone and head to coupons.com again. However, this time you can scroll through their digital download coupon page! It’s chock full of tons of coupons that are as easy to access as just pressing a button on your phone to get some massive savings.

In case you’re new to the digital coupon game, they work the same exact way as physical paper coupons. Meaning you will redeem the coupon at checkout, but instead of a paper barcode, once you “click and clip,” your digital coupon you will most likely get a barcode or a coupon code that the cashier can scan to secure your discount on the product.

Social media is a fantastic resource for finding digital coupons, or mobile coupons, as they are sometimes called on the various social media platforms. They usually come with a promo code, or another type of barcode that will allow you to redeem your coupon at checkout. The next time you’re scrolling through Instagram, or your Facebook page, make sure to keep your eyes wide open for any great deals.

Along those same lines, Amazon is amazing for finding coupons. Even if you don’t currently hold an Amazon Prime Subscription, a lot of their products have one-time coupons. Things like grocery items, cleaning agents, pet supplies, electronics and baby supplies, have regular coupons and deals that you’ll be sure to benefit from. (As with any coupon, be aware of its expiration dates, and other fine print on your digital coupons!)

Also see: Can you use manufacturer coupons on Amazon?

A little further down the treasure hunt trail of searching for the best coupons, are coupon apps. Ibotta is a great resource. It’s more of a “save and earn cash back,” kind of a deal, and I have several mom friends who swear by this app. Sign up and see what kind of savings you can earn with this gem of a coupon app nugget.

Flipp is another great one. Meant mostly for grocery, home supplies, or pharmacy needs, this app caters towards shoppers with either iPhones or Android phones. It’s very simple to download and you’ll find a surplus of digital coupons sure to meet any and all of your shopping needs.

Also see: Is Amazon Prime worth it?

Where to Hunt Down Coupons for Specific Needs

Some of the most popular coupon categories are in the area of grocery, kids, and pets. If you happen to be looking for coupons in this area, listen close and we’ll tell you some of the best places to find these!

For hardcore grocery coupon hunters, you can’t get much better than Grocery IQ. This app will pull some of the best coupons from coupons.com as well as other online apps and places them all in one spot for you to digitally sift through. Get ready to cut that grocery bill in half, my friend! It seems that the app owner (coupons.com) is a bit behind on updating the app and some people have difficulties using it. Hopefully, they will continue development as I haven’t found anything that works as well.

Need a new seasonal wardrobe for the kiddos, but would like to save a bit of money while doing it? The Children’s Place is your best bet. With everything from kid’s clothes to shoes, and accessories for your little ones, the amount of access to discount deals and exclusive coupons on this site, is truly staggering. I’ve used it several times myself, and if my 3-year-old daughter insisting that she wear her pink and purple, flowy, tulle-covered tutu, ten days in a row without washing it is any indication of how many points you’ll score by your purchases, I’d say you’ll be in for a parent of the year award, for sure. They even have a whole “vacation,” clothes section, so if you’re planning a fun summer getaway for you and the kids be sure to check that section out!

We oftentimes consider our pets to be just as near and dear to us as our actual children, so of course we’ll give you the lowdown on one or two of the best places to snag coupons for pet food and other supplies for our lovey, furry companions.

PetSmart, which you might be familiar with, is just about the best there is as far as coupons go for all of your four-legged friends. They allow you to use their store coupons as long as they have a PetSmart barcode, these can be either physical coupons or digital that you redeem right at the checkout when you’re making your final purchases. They also have a wonderful coupon receipt option that you can take advantage of. This is where the coupon is printed right on the bottom of a previous receipt, which you can redeem at the time of your next purchase. Every time I’ve been there, I’ve received awesome customer service, in that my cashier reminds me about the coupon on the bottom of the receipt for my next purchase. I love that about my neighborhood PetSmart!

Hunting Down One Step Further Savings

Sometimes, as good as they are, one-time coupon savings doesn’t quite do the trick. If you find yourself in that same spot, you can do what I like to call, “one step further savings.” This is a semi-fancy way of saying, you can sign up for things like Target Rewards Circle, Kohl’s Rewards program, TJ Maxx Rewards, or Amazon Prime Membership’s Subscribe and Save.

These are rewards programs for these particular stores. (And, in case you’re not aware, most bigger stores like the ones listed above have a rewards program like this.) Even most online stores have them as well! They’re designed to cater to the loyalty of their shoppers and customers. Usually, they’re set up in the way that once you reach a certain number of “points,” or a certain amount of money that you’ve spent with them, you receive a percentage off of your entire purchase or individual items.

They really are wonderful programs. You can set yourself and your family up to save a bundle. If the stores mentioned here aren’t ones you usually frequent, never fear. As I said most bigger stores have these types of rewards for their shoppers and you can just about always find a great program fit at your favorite store to fit your needs. Places like Walmart, CVS, Home Depot, and Menards have been known to have them as well. And, as a little-known bonus, you’ll usually receive extra coupons during the year, and sometimes even a little special percentage off near your birthday. Well worth it for those little perks alone.

Hopefully, the way we’ve broken it down, your own coupon treasure hunt won’t be so much of a hunt anymore! Keep your eyes peeled, your hands outstretched, and your excitement on the rise as you gather up those big, glittering savings!

Source: pennypinchinmom.com

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how much should you pay a babysitter

how much should you pay a babysitter

Deciding how much to pay a babysitter can be a difficult task. Many factors should be taken into consideration, such as the age and experience of the babysitter, the number of children being cared for, the length and time of the job, and any special skills or tasks the babysitter may be performing. It may also be helpful to look at what other families in your area typically pay for similar services.

While it’s important to remember that while budget is important, you want to make sure that you are offering fair and competitive compensation for the sitter’s time and responsibilities. At the end of the day, trust your judgment and offer a rate that feels appropriate based on all factors involved. And don’t forget to factor in payment for gas or transportation if necessary! Ultimately, clear communication and mutual respect will go a long way in creating a successful babysitting arrangement for both parties involved.

Here are some general guidelines you can follow to make sure you’re paying a fair wage.

What are the average babysitting rates in 2022?

While rates vary depending on a number of factors, the national average hourly rate for babysitters in the United States in 2022 is $20.57 per hour, according to UrbanSitter.com.

Of course, rates can vary greatly depending on a number of factors, including your geographic location. Families in large metropolitan areas tend to pay higher rates than families in smaller towns or rural areas. Additionally, rates may be higher for overnight or live-in babysitting gigs, as well as for jobs that require special skills or tasks such as learning and educational babysitting, pet care, swimming supervision, or speaking a second language.

Additionally, keep in mind that the average hourly rate is just that – an average. Some families may be willing to pay above the average rate for an exceptional babysitter, while others may be working with a smaller budget and therefore offer a lower rate.

At the end of the day, it’s important to come to an agreement on compensation that feels fair for both parties involved based on all the factors involved in the job.

How do I figure out how much to pay my babysitter?

When trying to determine how much to pay your babysitter, it can be helpful to look at what other families in your area are paying for similar services. Of course, every family has different budget constraints, so you’ll want to tailor your own offer based on what you’re comfortable spending.

In general, you’ll want to consider the age and experience of the babysitter, the number of children being cared for, the length and time of the job, and any special skills or tasks the babysitter may be performing. Keep in mind that rates may be higher for overnight or live-in babysitting gigs, as well as for jobs that require special skills or tasks such as learning and educational babysitting, pet care, swimming supervision, or speaking a second language.

Additionally, with the price of gas, don’t forget to factor in a mileage reimbursement to cover gas or transportation

What do parents look for in a babysitter?

When looking for a babysitter, parents typically want someone who is reliable, mature, and responsible. They want someone who will follow their instructions and be able to take charge in case of an emergency. Additionally, many parents prefer to hire babysitters who have previous experience caring for children, whether through paid jobs or informally through family or friends.

Of course, every family is different, so it’s important to discuss your expectations with potential babysitters before hiring anyone. This way, you can be sure that you’re on the same page and that the babysitter you hire is the right fit for your family.

Babysitter Form

Looking for a printable babysitter form? Look no further! This form is perfect for parents who want to be sure the babysitter has the information they need to take care of your kids.

Download: Babysitter Form for Parents

What are some tips for negotiating pay with a potential babysitter?

When negotiating pay with a potential babysitter, it’s important, to be honest about your budget and expectations for the job. Be upfront about how much you’re willing to pay, as well as what tasks you’ll need the babysitter to perform. If you have any concerns or special requests, be sure to communicate these as well.

It can also be helpful to ask the babysitter what their rate is, as this will give you a starting point for negotiation. Remember that the average hourly rate for babysitters in the United States in 2022 is $20.57 per hour, so you’ll want to make sure you’re offering a competitive wage.

While we are all about pinching pennies here, at the end of the day, it’s important to come to an agreement on compensation that feels fair for both parties involved based on all the factors involved in the job.

Other Factors to Consider When Setting Your Rates for Child Care

How Old is the Babysitter?

The age of the babysitter is one important factor to consider when setting your rates. In general, older and more experienced babysitters will charge more per hour than those who are younger or just starting out.

However, it’s also important to remember that age doesn’t always equal experience. Some teenagers may have years of experience caring for children, while some adults may be new to the babysitting scene. It’s important to consider all qualifications when determining how much to pay your babysitter.

The Experience of the Babysitter

As we mentioned before, age isn’t the only thing to consider when it comes to experience. Some teenagers may have years of experience caring for children, while some adults may be new to the babysitting scene. It’s important to consider both age and experience when determining how much to pay your babysitter.

There’s a difference in experience, both in life skills and taking care of kids, between a neighbor’s teenage daughter and someone who has watched kids for years and is CPR and first-aid certified.

If you want to be sure that your children are in good hands, you may want to consider hiring a babysitter who has years of experience. These babysitters typically charge more per hour because they’re considered to be more reliable.

The Number of Children Being Cared For

Another factor to consider when setting your rates is the number of children being cared for. In general, the more children there are, the higher the hourly rate will be. This is because childcare providers have to divide their time and attention between multiple children, which can be challenging.

If you have more than one child, you may also want to consider hiring a babysitter who has experience caring for multiple children at once. This way, you can be sure that your children will be well taken care of and that they’ll have a more positive experience.

The Age of the Children

Another factor impacting the cost of a babysitter is the age of the children as infants and toddlers require more constant supervision and care than older children, so babysitters who are comfortable (and qualified) to care for them may charge a higher rate.

The Length of the Job

The length of the job is another important factor to consider when setting your rates. In general, shorter jobs will be less expensive than longer ones. This is because babysitters have to dedicate a larger portion of their time to shorter jobs.

If you only need a babysitter for a few hours, you may want to consider hiring someone who specializes in short-term care. These babysitters typically charge less per hour because they’re used to working for shorter periods of time.

The Time of Day or Night

The time of day or night is another factor to consider when setting your rates. In general, babysitting jobs that take place during the day will be less expensive than those that take place at night. This is because most people are available to work during the day, so there’s more competition for jobs.

If you need a babysitter for a nighttime job to cover a late shift at work, you may want to consider hiring someone who specializes in nighttime care. These babysitters typically have a higher going rate because they’re used to working when most people are asleep.

Also, if you plan to hire a sitter for special occasions such as New Year’s Eve or Valentine’s Day, you’ll typically need to pay a higher rate since sitters are in high demand.

The Location of the Job

The location of the job is another important factor to consider when setting your rates. In general, jobs that take place in urban areas will be more expensive than those that take place in rural areas due to cost of living. This is because babysitters in urban areas typically have to travel further to get to their jobs.

The Responsibilities of the Job

Another factor to consider when setting your rates is the responsibilities involved in the job. In general, jobs that require more responsibilities will be more expensive than those that don’t. This is because babysitters have to take on more tasks when they’re responsible for more things.

If you need a babysitter who is responsible for more than just watching your children, you may want to consider hiring someone who specializes in caregiving. These babysitters typically charge more per hour because they’re used to taking on additional tasks, such as household chores or preparing meals.

The Child’s Temperament

Another factor to consider when setting your rates is the kid’s temperament. In general, jobs that involve caring for children who are more difficult to handle will be more expensive than those that don’t. This is because babysitters have to put in more effort to deal with children who are fussy or temperamental.

If you have a child who is known to be difficult, you may want to consider hiring a babysitter who specializes in dealing with children like yours. These babysitters typically charge more per hour because they’re used to handling children with special needs.

What is the difference between a babysitter and a nanny?

A babysitter is typically defined as an older child or teenager who watches younger children for a short period of time, usually in the evening or overnight. A nanny, on the other hand, is a professional caregiver that is often working full-time and is responsible for all aspects of child care, including pick-ups and drop-offs, meal prep, homework help, and more. Because of the additional responsibilities, nannies typically earn higher hourly wages than babysitters.

When deciding whether to hire a babysitter or a nanny, it’s important to consider your needs and budget. If you only need someone for a few hours a week to watch your child while you run errands or go out for date night, a babysitter may be the better option. However, if you need regular child care during the day while you’re at work or if you have multiple children, a nanny may be a better fit.

There are many factors that influence the costs of a babysitter, and in the end, you’ll have to use your best judgment to determine how much to pay your babysitter. Consider all of the factors we’ve discussed and come to a decision that works for you, your family, and your babysitter. At the end of the day, what’s most important is that everyone is happy with the arrangement.

Source: pennypinchinmom.com

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If you are in a relationship, you know how easy it can be to pass on having a date night due to kids, too much going on, or even finances.  However, it is essential to your relationship to spend some quality time together.  How do you do that? By having a date night, of course!

We’ve come up with some cute date night ideas that are fun and affordable ways to have a date night with your partner.  We’ve kept them budget-friendly so you won’t have to spend a lot of money.

Date Night Cards

Date Night Cards

CLICK THE IMAGE ABOVE AND GET YOUR DATE NIGHT CARDS

To make this even more fun, we’ve created date night cards!  Print them out and toss them into a box or a jar and draw one out and let fate determine what you will do for date night this week!  With 50 ideas, you will always have something you can do together.  And, some of these ideas may inspire some of your own!

FUN & CHEAP DATE NIGHT IDEAS 

1. Make s’mores over your fireplace fire or home campfire.  You can also try your hand at this fun s’mores dip recipe too!

2. Teach one another something new. If you know how to paint, teach your partner.  Maybe he or she can show you how to build a shelf.

3. Take in the stars.  Watch for shooting stars or try to find constellations.

4. Movie Night at home. Cuddle up on the floor with a few pillows and a blanket. Share a bowl of popcorn and your favorite beverage. If you have a great backyard, put the movie on your laptop and head outside.

5. Go on a bike ride around a local park or lake. Take time to stop along the way and take in the nature around you.

6. Take a nice long day hike up a local trail. Identify trees or plants along your trip.

7. Create an ice cream bar.  Don’t forget the hot fudge!

8. Play a card game.  You can play something as simple as Go Fish or learn a new game.  Or, there is always a game of poker, to which you can add some “spice” if you wish.

9. Go for a nice long scenic drive together. For more fun, try to make only left (or right turns) and see where you end up.

10. Play a game of Mini Golf.  Just check for coupons before you go!

11. Rent a movie or TV series.  Watch all of the Harry Potter movies or every season of Grey’s Anatomy (which will last a few date nights).

12. Play a game of Red Neck Golf. For more fun, you could find plans to make it yourself!

13. Check out your local farmer’s market. You can also play the alphabet game and see if you can’t find products for every letter.

14. Visit your local aquarium. Don’t forget to take fish face selfies!

15. Play a game of “Chopped Challenge.”  Have the kids put a few ingredients into a box for you and see what you can create together.

16. Visit your local museum. You can also check out a local art exhibit.  Add more fun by having a scavenger hunt in the museum to find items like a blue shirt, tree, etc.

17. Get tickets to a local concert, performance, or show. Grab dinner at home before you go so you can save a few bucks

18. Visit your local zoo. Walk around imitating the animals you just saw.  You’ll be guaranteed to laugh.

19. Attend a local sports game. Check out a high school or college game.  If you live near a minor league team, tickets to these games are much less expensive than professional teams.

20. Spa Night. Give each other a massage, pedicure, or facial and soak in the tub.

21. Candlelight dinner.  But, don’t make it!  Try a fun fast food restaurant by soft candlelight.

22. Go to the driving range. FORE!!

23. Shopping trip.  Make it more fun by buying something for one another that you like.

24. Plan your dream house.  Go online and look on Pinterest for ideas.  For even more fun, visit your local home improvement store and select your carpet, appliances and more.

25. Have a fondue night.  Find some fondue recipes and make your dinner and dessert at home.

26. Play board games.  See if you can finally finish a game of Monopoly.

27.  Hit the playground.  Push one another on the swings, go down a slide and get dizzy on the merry-go-round (if they have one).

28.  Coffee talk.  Go to your favorite coffee store and grab a cup and just talk. Set rules such as no mention of the kids!

29. Check out the bookstore. Skip the electronic books and go to a bookstore.  Sit and read together or listen to an author reading from his or her book.

30. Bowling. Check out your local alley to find out when they might have rock and bowl or blacklight bowling.

31. Slip-n-slide. Dig out the kiddie pool or the slip-n-slide and have some fun!

32. Beer or wine tasting. If you live near a brewery or vineyard, go on a tour, and don’t forget the samples!

33. Volunteer.  Find a charity you both love and volunteer your time to help out.  You’ll get to spend time together while being able to help someone else.

34. Tour an open house.  If your city offers a tour of homes, take in a few of them.  Dream about what you would do or pretend to be a realtor selling it to one another.

35. Scavenger Hunt. Create a list of things you need to find around your neighborhood.  You could turn it into a mini food drive for a local charity too!

36. Feed the ducks.  Stop by the park and feed the ducks.  People watch and come up with your own story about their lives.

37. Fly a kite.  Bonus points if you make it yourself!

38. Build a fort blanket.  Then, spend the night inside eating snacks, telling ghost stories, or watching a movie.

39. Take a class.  Check with your local parks and rec department and take a class together.  You can also take a DIY class at your home improvement store (and then make improvements at home).

40. Glamour shot.  Get out the makeup and accessories and dress one another up.  Don’t forget to take photos!

41.  Strip games.  Enough said.

42. Store hunt.  Have fun at Walmart finding the craziest items on your list.

43. Nerf gun war.  Borrow the kids’ guns and have some fun!! Make sure you have plenty of ammo!

44. Geocaching.  Such a great way to have some fun outside.

45. Roller skating.  Make sure you wear a helmet.

46. Backyard camping.  Set up the tent and make a campfire (in your grill or fire pit).

47. Test drive vehicles.  Not just any though, try your dream car!

48. Visit an arcade.  Play the games your kids love.  Or, pull out the Wii, classic Atari, or Sega and have fun at home.

49. Play the newlywed game.  Create 10 questions and write down your answers.  See if your partner can answer them correctly.

50. Love notes.  Write a note or poem for one another.  It is important to know how much you mean to the person you love.

There you go!  Fifty fun ways to spend a day or night with your favorite person!  Money won’t be an excuse for not doing something together with these cheap date night ideas!

Source: pennypinchinmom.com

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Elevate your outdoor living.

A deck in your apartment offers a multitude of advantages, from enhancing your living experience to providing an outdoor sanctuary where you can relax, entertain and enjoy the beauty of nature. We’ve compiled 11 reasons a deck can elevate your living experience and some ideas to utilize this versatile space.

1. An extra space to decorate for holidays

Creativity through decoration is one of the most fun parts of being a renter. A deck is an extension of your apartment and serves as an extra place to show the holiday spirit. Whether that be Christmas lights on the railing or a Menorah in the window, a deck is a unique opportunity to get creative around celebratory holiday decorations.

decorating with personal touches on your apartment deck make balcony feel festive even with limited outdoor space

2. And a comfy place to entertain all summer

When the weather is nice, hosting an outdoor get-together is ideal. A deck offers a spot to host a wine night, grill-off or catch-up session with a friend. With cozy seating on the deck, an inviting atmosphere sets the stage for making memories and charming guests.

3. A people-watching spot

We’re all guilty of doing it, and for some, it’s a guilty pleasure. Seated in your own privacy on your deck, you’re able to soak up not only the sounds of the area below but the sights. Decks allow you to indulge in people-watching and observing the vibrant energy of the neighborhood you’re living in.

dog on a small balcony enjoys outdoor time in style

4. A place to spend time with your pets outdoors

Our furry friends mean so much to us and enhance our lives in countless ways. Balconies help enhance their lives too, providing a dedicated space where they can soak up vitamin D and play to their heart’s content. Additionally, the deck becomes a cozy spot where you can cuddle up with your pet, enjoying precious moments together in the fresh air.

a perfect lounge starts with chairs, plants and lighting to create a stylish outdoor sanctuary

5. Date night in your outdoor oasis

Spending time with your significant other is valuable time. Date nights are pricey and discovering new spots is tricky. A deck date night is a creative and cozy way to drink, dine and enjoy the presence of your person without ever leaving your apartment.

6. Gardening opportunities

If you have a green thumb or aspire to grow your own veggies and herbs, a deck addition is perfect for you. Between growing flowers to brighten your day or herbs to bring life to a meal, the growing opportunities are vast with a deck. Plus, you’ll enjoy the fragrant herb smells while you hang out outside.

a balcony space is perfect for grilling

7. Grilling and dining al fresco

Communal apartment grills are super popular, especially during warmer months. Skip the wait and utilize your apartment balcony to grill out and dine al fresco. An apartment with a deck easily transforms to your own private outdoor culinary haven with a grill and dining area.

8. Soak up the sun privately

Don’t have enough time to head down to the pool? Just want to enough a quick cup of coffee before you head to work? A deck solves these problems for renters, providing a convenient space for a quick sunbathing or a peaceful moment of relaxation.

9. Exercise and fitness space

Fitness classes are great outdoors. With most at-home workout classes and routines only requiring a small bit of space, an apartment deck serves as a perfect spot for a stretch. Also, the privacy provided by your apartment deck allows you to freely move and follow along with your workout without feeling restricted by crowded gyms or shared spaces.

entertaining and reading in your personal retreat all starts with a small outdoor space

10. Staycation escape

Utilizing your deck to escape and enjoy the sights and sounds of nature can really boost mental health, elevate your mood and enhance your overall living experience. Whether you want to stargaze, lose yourself in a book series or just take a breath of fresh air, recharging and reconnecting on your deck is easy.

11. Connecting with nature

There is an endless list of ways to connect with nature on your apartment deck. Installing birdfeeders, watching the sunrise and sunset, outdoor meditation and installing wind chimes are some of the ways renters can connect with the sights and sounds of the outdoors.

an apartment with deck can convert to a vertical garden or outdoor dining room -- or just a nice, relaxing place to sit

An amenity in the comfort of your own home

A deck enhances apartment living by providing a private outdoor space for relaxation, entertainment and connection with nature. It expands your living space and offers endless possibilities for personalization and enjoyment.

With a deck, you can fully embrace the joys of outdoor living while enjoying the convenience and comfort of apartment life. Ready to search for apartments with this perk? Start your apartment-hunting journey today!

Source: rent.com

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When you were hunting for an apartment, you probably zoned in on just a few must haves – an affordable price in a convenient location that allows pets. You’re not hard to please, right?

Depending on your specific community, there could be a whole world of cool amenities and features right outside your front door that you’re missing out on. And guess what? You’re paying for these amenities every month!

Take my advice: don’t fall into the trap of not taking advantage of what’s available to you. I’ll admit that I’m totally guilty of this myself. I lived in a community in Duluth, GA that had not one but two swimming pools, a workout facility, tennis court, soccer field and a car wash all on-site. Did I ever partake in these convenient amenities? I used the pool and the car wash once over a four year period.

If you like the convenience of having everything you need at your fingertips, then an apartment with lots of amenities is right up your alley. Not only will you be able to have a good time without going far, but partaking in what your community offers is the best opportunity to meet your neighbors. So get out there, mix and mingle!

Billiards

This is an easy way to have fun for free. If you’re planning a birthday party or social gathering, ask your leasing office if this public space is available for your guests to enjoy. These are usually in a common room, where you can spend some time lounging around and getting to know your neighbors.

Meet the Neighbors: Why It’s Smart to Make the Effort

Fitness studio

Gym memberships aren’t cheap, and if you have something in your building, you save the money and hassle of having to go somewhere else like that. Even just the standard of a couple treadmills and some free weights and machines are a great benefit, and some even include free classes.

How Your Apartment Can Help You Lose Weight

Multi-purpose gaming room

For the kid at heart, game rooms are a fun perk. Some places go beyond just the billiard table above, including more games like foosball, ping pong, and air hockey. Some are even equipped with large TVs, perfect for bringing a console and setting up a group video game gathering.

Toddler room

Outdoor playgrounds are to be expected. When it’s chilly outside and the kids are bored, having an indoor play area could be the answer to your prayers. Amenities like these are beneficial if you prefer to limit your children’s TV and technology time. Not only can kids play and interact like they’re supposed to, but you can make some new friends, too. Network with other parents in your apartment community. You might even find a reliable sitter or set up a monthly play date with other parents.

Ways to Break the Ice with New Neighbors

Tanning bed

If occasional tanning is your thing, you’ll appreciate having a tanning bed in your apartment community. Even if this amenity is free, we caution you not to overdo it. Seriously, do you really want to scare the neighbors with your new Tan Mom makeover?

Spa

A day at the spa can be pretty pricey. If it’s not in your budget to spend big bucks on a massage, take advantage of your community’s spa, sauna or steam room. This feature meets the demand of residents who crave a high-end renting experience.

High-end fitness facilities

Do you like something more varied than a treadmill or lifting weights? Many apartments are more than willing to accommodate that. Tennis courts and basketball courts are frequently offered as a way to get your heart rate going, and have more fun that just repetitive exercise along the way.

6 Ways to Know If Your Apartment is ‘The One’

Movie theater

Why spend your hard-earned cash at the movie theater when you can watch flicks in your community’s cinema? Private screenings, scheduled movie nights and free popcorn are fairly common, but be sure to ask what’s happening in your specific community. Free date night, anyone?

Wine cellar

These often come with nights set aside for wine tastings, a great opportunity to spend more time with your neighbors. Have fun, and drink responsibly.

How to Hang Out in Your Apartment Community

Gift wrapping station

During the rush of the holiday season, this amenity is a must. Spend more time shopping while someone else does all the wrapping for you. Go head, take credit for those perfectly wrapped gifts. We won’t tell!

Bike storage/maintenance

More people are using bikes all the time, especially in areas where you’ll find large apartment complexes. If you’re looking to use a bike a lot, look to see how well they store the bikes, and if you’re lucky, you can find an apartment that has people on-site who can help you when your bike needs maintenance.

Really pet friendly

A lot of apartments allow pets, but how many of them are really, overly pet friendly? Look for ones that offer free dog treats near the office, community playtime for all the dogs and owners to get to know each other, and well-marked dog walking paths and parks. You and your dog will be grateful you spent the extra time looking.

How Apartment Communities are Evolving: Much More Than Amenities

If you think these are cool, there’s a whole world of unique apartment amenities out there that we haven’t even touched on. How would you like wake-up calls, after school care, free wifi and 24-hour on-site childcare?

We want to hear from you: What’s the best amenity your apartment community offers?

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To live in a rural, suburban or urban area, that is the question. When you’re thinking about moving to a new location, you need to think about the rental and the area in which it is located.

Each type of area — rural, suburban and urban — has its merits. In this article, we are going to deep dive into what it’s like living in a suburban area. We will touch on rural versus urban areas, as well.

So, let’s jump in so you can decide if renting an apartment or home in a suburban area is right for you.

What is a suburban area?

When you think of “the burbs,” you may picture a housing community outside of the city center and full of tree-lined streets and charming houses sitting side-by-side. While this is a little cliche, the general idea is accurate.

Suburban areas are generally more residential, have less dense populations and are located farther from the city center itself. Here is how the Census Bureau defines each type of area.

Rural area

Rural areas are defined as areas with open countryside and fewer than 2,500 people. Rural areas are small towns with a less dense population, typically located in areas with more open spaces and fewer commercial buildings. Rural areas have less expensive rent but fewer amenities and activities.

Suburban area

Suburban areas are kind of like a hybrid between rural and urban areas. They are more populated than rural communities but less crowded and populated compared to urban areas. Suburban areas are also closer to the main city center or urban area.

Metro or urban area

Urban areas or metro areas are your large city centers. Think San Francisco, Chicago or Manhattan. Those are large, metro areas comprised of both residential and commercial areas.

For a city to be considered an “urban area,” it must have a population of at least 50,000 people or more or have “urban clusters” with a population between 2,500 and 50,000 people, according to Census Bureau information.

The exact definitions and delineations between rural, suburban and urban are muddy. However, you can easily think of rural as the smallest type of town, urban as the largest and suburban somewhere in the middle. It’s the Goldilocks of city sizes and areas.

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11 qualities of a suburban area

Now that you understand the difference between rural, suburban and urban, let’s dive into some of the things that distinguish a suburban area. Depending on the person, these qualities could be upsides or downsides, but we will let you be the judge of that.

1. Space

Because you aren’t located in the heart of the city, you’ll generally have more living space in a suburban area. If you rent a home or townhouse, you’ll likely have a yard and patio of your own to enjoy. If you rent an apartment, you can probably find larger apartments for a more reasonable price compared to an apartment in the city itself. Living in a suburban area, you’re likely to have more space in which to spread out.

2. Located near common amenities

Living in a suburban area, you’ll be near common amenities, like grocery stores, coffee shops and gas stations, but you may not be within walking distance, as you would in a city. Because things are more spaced out in a suburban area, you’re close to amenities but may need to catch a bus or take your own car. Not everything is within walking distance in a suburban area.

3. Larger houses or rentals

In a suburban area, you have more real estate to work with. This means that the houses and apartments are generally larger in suburban areas compared to the metro area. You might be able to find a two-bedroom apartment that is comparable in price to a one-bedroom or studio in the city. You’re farther from the city but you’ll find more space for your dollar amount.

4. Close-knit community

When you’re in a suburban area, you’re part of a neighborhood. This means you’ll likely be a part of a close-knit community where you know and love (or hate) your neighbors.

However, you’re not too close, literally, that you can’t have your own peace and quiet. If you’re looking for an area where you’ll bond with your neighbors, a suburban area might be right for you.

5. Medium-sized population density

If you’re looking for a place to live that is populated but not overcrowded, a suburb is a good bet. You’ll definitely be around more people compared to a rural town but you aren’t on top of each other like you may be in a city. Suburban areas are known for their medium-sized population density.

6. Peace and quiet

For some, the constant motion in a big city is appealing. However, if you are looking for a more relaxed vibe, consider a suburb. As we mentioned, you’ll still have a lively neighborhood, but it’s more quiet and serene compared to a place like the Big Apple.

7. Less crime

Typically, suburban areas experience less crime per capita. While crime can happen anywhere, it’s more likely to occur in an urban area. You can check out the state of safety in your area before you move to a location to understand the rate of property and violent crime.

8. Higher cost

Because you’re getting more space in a suburban area, you’ll pay more compared to rural areas. You also might pay more for a home compared to an apartment, but, you are getting more bang for your buck. Urban rental prices can be quite expensive as you pay a premium for your location in the heart of a city. Make sure to find a rental you can afford before signing a lease.

9. Longer commute

When you live in a big, urban area, you can rely on public transit or easy walking commutes to get from location A to B. However, in a suburban area, you are farther away from downtown. So, if you work in the city itself, you may spend more time commuting than if you lived in the city center. Take the commute into consideration before you make a move.

10. Fewer jobs

Suburban areas may have fewer job openings compared to downtown, urban areas. However, if you are willing to commute, you can find several options for work nearby.

11. Farther from cultural landmarks

One of the perks of living in a big city is your access to cultural landmarks and activities. Most cities have museums, historical landmarks, concerts, plays or other cultural events that take place daily. While you can still enjoy these amenities while living in a suburban neighborhood, you aren’t as close to them as you would be living in the city itself. But, plan a date night and you can still enjoy these cultural attractions on the regular.

Find your next rental in a suburban area

Have we convinced you that suburban life is right for you? At a high level, you’ll have more space and more privacy. However, you may miss out on the walkable nature of living in a city center.

Take a tour of your prospective apartment or rental and the surrounding area in the suburb to see if the whole situation is a good fit for you. Then, begin your house hunt and find the perfect new place to call your own.

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