Nestled in the heart of the Pacific Northwest, Spokane, WA, boasts a rich cultural scene, with a variety of museums that cater to diverse interests. From art enthusiasts to history buffs and science lovers, this vibrant city offers an array of museums that captivate and educate visitors. From stepping into a world of creativity and inspiration at the Northwest Museum of Arts & Culture, where art, history, and regional culture converge to uncovering where science comes alive with interactive exhibits and engaging activities at the Mobius Discovery Center, many remarkable museums are sure to fascinate and educate.
Whether you’re looking to rent an apartment in Spokane on Redfin, purchase a home in the area, or just want to know what it’s like living in Spokane, join us as we embark on a journey through five remarkable museums in Spokane, each offering a unique and enriching experience that will leave you with a deeper appreciation for the art, history, and wonders of this vibrant city.
1. Jundt Art Center & Museum
The Jundt Art Museum, located on the campus of Gonzaga University, showcases an impressive collection of art from various periods and styles. Established in 1995, the museum houses over 5,000 artworks, including paintings, sculptures, ceramics, photographs, and prints. The collection spans a wide range of artistic genres, from European and American masterpieces to contemporary works by renowned regional and international artists. The Jundt Art Museum also hosts temporary exhibitions that explore diverse themes and artistic movements.
2. Northwest Museum of Arts & Culture
The Northwest Museum of Arts & Culture (MAC) is a prominent cultural institution dedicated to preserving and showcasing the art, history, and culture of the Inland Northwest region. Founded in 1916, the museum houses a diverse collection of artifacts, artworks, and archival materials that span various disciplines, including fine art, Native American artifacts, regional history, and natural history. Visitors to the MAC can explore exhibitions that delve into topics such as regional heritage, indigenous cultures, contemporary art, and historical events. This is a must-visit museum in Spokane for locals and tourists alike.
3. Bing Crosby House
The Bing Crosby House is a historical residence located on the campus of Gonzaga University that was the childhood home of the legendary American singer and actor, Bing Crosby. Built in 1913, it’s a modest two-story Craftsman-style home that reflects the architectural style of the time. It provides a glimpse into Crosby’s early years and how he was raised.
4. Mobius Discovery Center
The Mobius Discovery Center is an interactive science center that offers a hands-on learning experience with a focus on science, technology, engineering, art, and mathematics (STEAM). The center features a variety of exhibits and activities designed to engage and inspire curiosity in science and exploration. Visitors can participate in interactive displays, experiments, and educational programs that cover a wide range of scientific topics. Some exhibits include bottle rockets, electricity, and bridges and various structures.
These are the best apartment gyms in Sacramento. Which one matches up with your workout style?
Known as the “City of Trees,” there’s no doubt that Sacramento is a beautiful place to call home. Because the city is peppered with parks and full of fun options to fill your days with outdoor activities, it’s important to stay in shape if you want to experience the full scope of everything Sacramento has to offer.
Whether you’re a CrossFit junkie, dedicated treadmill runner or committed to curls, there’s an apartment gym on this list that will look like it was built just for you. Find the Sacramento gym that best fits your exercise style and start the process toward signing that lease today.
Source: Rent. / The Press Apartments
The Press Apartments is a modern complex designed to help residents maximize every aspect of their daily lives. From the private office spaces and 24-hour hangout area to the hound lounge to, of course, the pristine fitness center. Equipped with everything you’d expect to find in a community with more than a few things you seldom see outside of the most expensive monthly membership gyms, this gym sets the bar in Sacramento.
Providing residents with a yoga studio, multiple rowing machines and even a boxing machine, this gym has what you’re looking for regardless of how you like to get your heart rate up. Located in Sacramento’s highly sought-after Richmond Grove, life is good when you’re lucky enough to call The Press Apartments home.
Source: Rent. / Capitol Towers
The amenities at Capitol Towers are extensive. These downright beautiful apartments are located in Downtown Sacramento and it’s safe to say they boast one of the best apartment gyms in Sactown.
Featuring a loft-style fitness center with leg machines, a lat pulldown machine and enough free weights for all to enjoy a workout without any wait time, this fitness center doesn’t leave any room for complaints. The wellness amenities don’t stop at the expansive gym either. There are also two dry saunas, a spa/hot tub area and a large, rectangular pool that’s perfect for swimming laps.
Source: Rent. / Vasari
Situated south of Sacramento in Elk Grove, the Vasari apartment complex is complete with a fitness center that just might put your current gym to shame. With a dedicated spin area and yoga studio alongside a large gym equipped with an array of upper and lower body machines, heavy ropes and treadmills with pool views, it’s easy to see why residents often fall in love with this fitness center soon after signing the lease.
Whether you’re an early-morning lifter or more of an after-work elliptical person, you’re never short on options at this apartment gym. Not to mention the fact that you can work out hard with the comfort of knowing there’s a hot tub waiting for you to soak the soreness away.
Source: Rent. / Miramonte and Trovas
Lit up by large windows and a lime green accent wall, the fitness center at Miramonte and Trovas is more than meets the eye. With everything you’d expect in a well-equipped gym, like a Smith machine for safe reps without a spotter, large free weight racks and plenty of benches to help you get a full workout with ease, this gym clearly covers all the essentials.
Where this North Natomas complex really separates itself from the rest is its offering of fitness on-demand. The gym TVs have fitness on-demand, a system that allows residents to learn more about working out and fitness from the comfort of their home gym. No personal trainer is required, this fitness center has it all and then some.
Source: Rent. / The Mansion
With a name like “The Mansion” you better have some high-end amenities to match. Needless to say, the beautiful fitness center at this beautiful Boulevard Park apartment complex does not disappoint.
With strength and conditioning equipment as far as the eye can see, mirrored walls, flat-screen TVs and plenty of natural light, this gym sets up its residents for success and supports the journey toward accomplishing even the loftiest of personal fitness goals. Enjoy full-circuit workouts with top-tier equipment in this fine fitness center.
Source: Rent. / Kensington
Stationary bikes, Hoist machinery and Matrix treadmills are just a few of the stellar pieces of equipment you can expect to find at the Kensington fitness center. With vaulted ceilings letting in all the natural light you could ever want and, most importantly, enough space to stretch out and get your sweat on without being disturbed by others, this gym was built with residents’ comfort in mind every step of the way.
This Arden-Arcade apartment complex also boasts three pools and a relaxing spa. That means you can start your day swimming laps and then cap it off by soaking away the pains of the day.
Source: Rent. / Academy65
Known for its youthful resident population, proximity to Sacramento State and impressive list of amenities, Academy65 is a great place for active people to call home. Boasting a 24-hour fitness center complete with a StairMaster, multiple treadmills under flat-screen TVs, and a mountain of medicine balls, this fitness center is equipped to handle all types of exercise styles.
Not just catering to the heavy lifters, the fitness center at this College Town complex is also equipped with a yoga studio and spin area. Whether you’re looking to pedal away your problems or just improve your flexibility a little bit, there’s a space for you at the fitness center at Academy65.
Source: Rent. / The Woodlands
The Woodlands is a magnificent Metro Center apartment complex with, as you may have guessed from the name, an appealing cabin feel. With more than one StairMaster, a lat pulldown machine and a squat rack all at your disposal, among many other pieces of top-tier equipment, there’s no questioning the Woodlands fitness center’s place on this list.
The opportunities for recreation don’t end at the fitness center either. This complex also provides residents with a cornhole court, three pools and two hot tubs. Regardless of what you’re feeling, there’s always something to do at The Woodlands.
Source: Rent. / Irongate
Located in North Natomas, Sacramento, the fitness center at Irongate isn’t just spacious, it’s also equipped with everything you need to not just achieve but to exceed your fitness goals. Whether you are looking to up your cardio, tack on some mass, drop a few pounds or anything in between, you have more than a few options thanks to the exercise amenities at this North Natomas fitness center.
Adorned with upper and lower-body machines, lots of free weights and flat-screen TVs for when you need a mental break from your treadmill running or leg pressing, exercise options are never an issue. Thanks to white walls, a high ceiling and plenty of natural light, this fitness center feels large and always has enough space for residents to work out, even during the busier hours.
Source: Rent. / The Fremont
Easily recognizable by its unique Mediterranean architecture, The Fremont is one of the more desirable buildings in Midtown to call home. With sizable windows to let in natural light, large free-weight racks, stacks of stationary balls and a couple of shelves of complimentary towels, this fitness center is fully stocked and ideal for fitness-minded folks from all walks of life.
Also boasting a professional-grade stationary bike alongside a state-of-the-art elliptical machine and treadmill, The Fremont’s fantastic fitness center supports your cardio goals.
Get your sweat on in Sacramento
Whether you’re a daily runner, a weekly weightlifter or someone just looking to improve flexibility the slightest bit, Sacramento is full of apartment gyms that are capable of supporting you through even the most ambitious fitness goals.
See yourself getting your sweat on in one of these next-level fitness centers? Fill out an application today and reignite your passion for personal fitness in your new apartment gym.
Featured image source: Rent. / The Press Apartments
Weddings are a big deal. You plan them for months or even years and invite everyone you know, then you have the highly-anticipated, heavily-photographed event and they all live happily ever after. (Cue the end credits.)
So much goes on behind the scenes before the big day, as anyone who’s ever attended or been in a wedding should know. But what you don’t really find out until you plan one for yourself is just how expensive and wasteful they can be.
What’s Ahead:
The true cost of a wedding
When I was planning my wedding between 2018 and 2019, I learned pretty quickly what weddings actually cost. And I’m not just talking about the bill.
Each year in the U.S., couples spend thousands of dollars on average on their weddings. In 2022, the national average price of a wedding was around $30,000, according to The Knot. Of course, these averages vary by state and city but could be much higher. And destination weddings can add another several thousand onto your final total.
And every year, these averages go up.
I didn’t know any of this when I got engaged. But once I started actually planning and crunching the numbers using quotes from vendors and venues, I realized that there was no way I could afford the “average wedding,” and I wasn’t sure I wanted to.
Creating my lists also had me thinking about how all of these different “to-do” items would eventually become “to-dump” items. Those flowers would have to go somewhere, right? The table decorations would need to be disposed of, the cards tossed, and the wrapping paper from the gifts thrown in the trash.
So I decided to try to do things a little differently. Both out of necessity because I was poor when we got married – like still in college, barely 22 years old poor – and out of a desire to be eco-friendy.
I’m going to share seven real ways I made my wedding greener and some ideas for making your big day low(er)-waste too.
Read more: Are you financially ready to get engaged?
1. Swap the flowers
My flower total: $94.55
Swapping real flowers for sola wood, paper, fabric, or anything else that will last is a smart place to start. Because the fact of the matter is, flowers are incredibly expensive. And then they wilt and die, as cut plants are prone to doing.
For my flowers, I opted for sola wood. This is a material that comes from tapioca that can be treated and shaped almost like paper. It’s lightweight and looks darn close to the real thing.
I found a shop on Etsy that sold individual sola wood flowers in a bunch of different colors and varieties, and I used 24 of these for my bridal party. For myself, I purchased a pre-made sola bouquet from another store so I didn’t have to cobble one together.
The great part about using sola or another material for your flowers isn’t just that it’s inexpensive but also that you get a keepsake.
I let my bridesmaids keep theirs as a memento and I have the leftovers in vases.
For me, that was it in the way of flowers. I used other decorations for everything else, including repurposed antiques and some DIY items. But there’s nothing saying you couldn’t go all out with the sola since it’s a fraction of the cost of live flowers.
Tip: Purchase sola flowers in large quantities to save even more, and buy them early so you can match them to your other decorations and customize them.
2. Buy your dress secondhand
My dress total: $700 (without alterations)
I know, I know. This one is a harder sell. Many brides have very clear visions in their heads about how they want their dresses to look and make them feel, and purchasing secondhand limits your options. Plus, thrifting a top or a pair of jeans is different from thrifting one of the most important outfits of your life.
But hear me out. No one is going to know someone else wore your dress before you. Wedding dresses usually get worn once, maybe twice, before collecting dust. And creating gowns is so labor and resource intensive that even repurposing one has an impact.
For my dress, I went to The Brides Project in Ann Arbor, Michigan. This is a nonprofit bridal boutique that collects donated dresses, sells them, and uses the profits for charitable causes. The Brides Project donates to the Cancer Support Community of Greater Ann Arbor and everyone who works there is a volunteer.
Buying secondhand saves serious money and prevents a dress from being wasted. At the end of the day, I spent $700 on my dress and I loved it. This was in 2018 when the average cost of a wedding gown was right around $1,750.
Tip: If you don’t have access to a secondhand bridal shop, check out your local consignment and thrift stores, go on eBay and Poshmark, or browse a marketplace specializing in pre-owned bridal gowns.
Secondhand marketplaces include:
Point is, you’ve got options.
3. Use one venue
My venue total: $1,850
If you can find a venue with enough room for both your ceremony and reception, book it. This is one of the best decisions we made. Venue rental fees will eat up a big chunk of your budget no matter where you go, but choosing one for the whole event can help you save a little money and make things easier on yourself – and your guests.
With one venue, nobody has to kill time in between, you don’t have to get multiple places set up, and you don’t need to pay for twice the decorations. You save your elderly relatives from climbing into a car more than necessary and nobody gets lost.
This creates less waste and simplifies your planning. Plus, without all those cars on the road getting from one place to another, you’re not responsible for as many carbon emissions.
Tip: To pull this off, you have to love whatever venue you choose. Rather than picking a “blank canvas” venue you’d have to style from floor to ceiling, consider one with some personality. If you choose a place that suits your style, you don’t need to do as much decorating.
We got married in a city club that had vintage art, furniture, and accents throughout, and our wedding was in spring when the flowers were blooming. It felt timeless and setup was minimal.
Overall, highly recommend.
4. Skip (some of) the cards
My card total: $117.19
Physical engagement announcements, save-the-dates, invitations, and programs are nice to look at. But that’s a lot of material that’s probably just going to get recycled. And wow is it pricey.
The only paper I purchased was invitations and RSVPs. We ordered these from Paper Culture, a company that creates custom eco-friendly cards using recycled paper and bamboo.
The cards included links to our wedding website where people could RSVP and find out everything they needed to about the event. We did receive some physical RSVPs back, but the majority of our guests used the website to “joyfully accept” or “regretfully decline.”
There are so many wedding planning websites and apps that organize everything from responses to registries in one place. You can pretty much skip most of the cards if you want to.
Great wedding websites include:
The Knot
Zola
Joy
WeddingWire
Tip: Send invitations a little earlier than recommended if you’re doing digital. This will give guests more time to “save the date” and you more time to track down RSVPs. And you might need to give your tech-averse relatives a call if they don’t respond.
As for programs, you might not need them. I wrote down the schedule of events with times on an extra-large mirror (that I got on sale for $35) and displayed this centrally at the venue. I still have this mirror today, with the writing on it, on my wall.
Bonus tip: Not everybody needs a plus-one
Maybe this seems selfish, but we gave out plus-ones very sparingly. If we had met a person’s significant other, they were invited. Otherwise, we didn’t really want to give them hugs in the receiving line or pay for their dinner.
We made a note on the RSVPs that if someone wanted to request a plus-one they could, but no one actually did this. People get it.
5. Choose food wisely
My food total: $3,077.50
For many couples, the food and drink bill ends up being the biggest. The Knot 2022 Real Weddings Study found that the average food bill for a wedding comes out to $75 per person.
But most people don’t go to a wedding for the food. In fact, this is often the worst part (just stating facts). Don’t put too much pressure on the meal you’re serving to be a highlight of the day or evening, and don’t fork over more cash than necessary.
That said, we decided to do a menu of just appetizers. We ordered enough that everybody would be able to pile their plates with several individual bites and have plenty to eat, but not so many that we’d have leftovers to deal with.
Every venue is different, but ours charged a per-plate or per-head price on dinners and a per-item price on appetizers (or hors d’oeuvres if you want to be fancy). By choosing apps instead of plates, we saved a ton of money and gave our guests more options. They were able to enjoy dinner-sized portions and we still hear from people about how fun this was.
Tip: Some venues require you to use their caterers and might place a minimum on how much you need to order. Try to get this information before signing a contract to rent a venue. And if your venue doesn’t offer appetizers or you’re not into the whole strolling dinner thing, buffet-style meals can be an economical alternative to plated dinners.
For 130 guests, we could have spent over $9,000 going the traditional route. I’m glad we didn’t.
6. Ask for money
It’s not weird anymore to tell people you just want cash.
Especially if you and your partner already have most of the things you need or have been living together for a while, chances are you don’t need a gift from everybody coming to your wedding. Feel free to ask for money.
Many wedding planning websites have built-in options for collecting cash contributions (we called ours the “Honeymoon Fund” but I’ve also seen “Newlywed Fund”). This is easier for your guests because they can just virtually send cash without having to buy and wrap a gift and better for you because you can get what you really need. Bonus, there are no boxes or piles of wrapping paper to get rid of.
Tip: Don’t worry about offending anyone. A lot of your guests have been in your shoes. They know weddings are expensive and would probably be more than happy to help you out this way instead of buying you a pan or sheet set.
7. Rethink the diamond
My ring total: $2,000
Okay, so this one isn’t technically for the wedding. But it’s important.
Consider an alternative to a diamond engagement ring if you’re planning to get engaged. There are much more sustainable options out there than the standard diamond, and ones that won’t break the bank.
Moissanite is one of the trendiest non-diamond stones but precious gems like sapphires, emeralds, morganite, and opal can be fantastic choices for couples looking to save money.
And if you love traditional diamonds, that’s great too! There are so many ways to buy diamond rings that don’t involve going to a big box store.
Tip: Antique shops and estate sales are perfect for finding vintage rings and many online retailers carry gorgeous rings without the markups you typically see. Try Blue Nile for discounted conflict-free diamonds.
You can also choose an “imperfect” diamond. This is what I did. I have a salt-and-pepper diamond from Alexis Russell and it’s pretty perfect to me. It’s certified conflict-free and made with recycled gold.
When I got engaged in 2018, my husband spent $2,000 on this ring. That year, couples were spending over $7,800 on average for engagement rings.
Read more: Where’s the best place to buy diamonds?
When to splurge
The great thing about getting married is that you get to do what you want. It’s your day.
You and your partner can strive for a greener wedding if you feel compelled, and that can look however you want it to look. Compromising in some areas and splurging in others is the best way to have the wedding you’ve been dreaming of without too much guilt or sticker shock.
You should splurge on the parts of your wedding that matter most to you and your partner, and try to save on the things that don’t. For example, maybe you love fresh flowers. You can’t imagine a wedding without fresh flowers, so you get these and rent the rest of your decorations or buy them used.
Or maybe the pictures are most important to you. To balance out this cost, maybe you serve cupcakes or cookies instead of a tiered wedding cake.
There are no wrong answers, as long as you’re doing what makes you happy.
Bottom line
The wedding industry is due for a shake-up, and enough people making tiny changes to their big days could have a huge impact on the planet.
With careful planning and some compromises, we were able to completely recoup what we spent on our wedding in gifts and cash contributions. That means we got married without debt, and that was worth celebrating in and of itself.
Our wedding was by no means the most eco-friendly it could have been. And if I were to plan it again today, I’d probably try to do better. But I feel good about the little changes we did make.
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Welcome to Crest, where style and value converge to offer an exceptional living experience in the heart of DC. If you’re in search of one-bedroom apartments for rent in DC, look no further. At Crest, they have crafted the perfect combination of comfort, convenience, and affordability, ensuring that our residents enjoy a lifestyle that surpasses expectations.
Highlight the Style and Comfort
The one-bedroom apartments at Crest are thoughtfully designed with meticulous attention to detail. Step into a world of contemporary elegance, where every corner showcases modern aesthetics and functionality. From the moment you enter, you’ll be greeted by spacious floorplans that provide ample room for both relaxation and entertainment. With features like full-size washers and dryers, stainless steel appliances, and granite countertops, your apartment becomes a haven of convenience and sophistication.
Emphasize the Value
At Crest, they understand the importance of finding value in your home. That’s why the one-bedroom apartments offer exceptional square footage, walk-in closets, and balconies that extend your living space and provide breathtaking views of the surrounding Skyland Town Center. Crest believes that luxury should be accessible to all, which is why they provide unbeatable pricing for well-appointed apartments. Experience the perfect balance between quality and affordability at Crest.
Amenities for an Elevated Lifestyle
Beyond the four walls of your apartment, Crest offers a host of amenities that elevate your living experience. Immerse yourself in the refreshing oasis of our courtyard pool, stay active and fit at our two-story fitness center, or socialize with friends at the clubroom featuring a pool table. For those who work remotely, our business area and coworking space provide the ideal environment to stay productive. With a helpful 24/7 concierge team and dedicated maintenance staff, your needs are always taken care of at Crest.
Explore the Skyland Town Center Neighborhood
Living at Crest means being at the heart of the vibrant Skyland Town Center neighborhood. Enjoy the convenience of having shopping, dining, and service options right outside your front door. With the completion of Skyland Town Center, exciting retail destinations like Lidl grocery and DC’s first-ever drive-through Starbucks are just steps away. This thriving community offers endless opportunities to explore, connect, and enjoy a truly fulfilling lifestyle.
Don’t miss out on the perfect combination of style and value. Discover Crest’s one-bedroom apartments for rent in DC at Crest and experience the pinnacle of modern living. Contact the Crest today to schedule a tour and seize the opportunity to unlock your ideal home at Crest in the coveted Skyland Town Center neighborhood.
Schedule a Tour of Our One-Bedroom Apartments at Crest Today!
Equal Housing Opportunity
The housing provider will not refuse to rent a rental unit to a person because the person will provide the rental payment, in whole or in part, through a voucher for rental housing assistance provided by the District or federal government.
Amazon and the Amazon logo are trademarks of Amazon.com, Inc, or its affiliates. Rental providers will not refuse to rent a rental unit to a person because the person will provide the rental payment, in whole or in part, through a voucher for rental housing assistance provided by the District or federal government.
Regardless of how you like to work out, there’s a gym on this list that’s perfectly designed to help you meet your fitness goals.
Known for its proximity to the legendary Garden of the Gods and beloved by locals for its awe-inspiring natural beauty, it’s no surprise that Colorado Springs is home to an active population of nature lovers that prioritize health and physical fortitude in their daily lives.
With such an active population, apartment complexes have felt the pressure to provide residents with ample options to work out the way they want. These are 10 of the best apartment gyms in Colorado Springs.
Source: Rent. / FalconView
FalconView is a Northgate apartment complex that features an indoor-outdoor workout area that will put your local CrossFit gym to shame. Garage-style doors, a killer sound system and lofty ceilings with large fans to help keep you cool — this fitness center is for the workout freaks and resentful treadmill runners alike.
Whether you’re looking for a full-body workout courtesy of a half hour on the rowing machine or some outdoor turf to tone your legs while you take care of your tan, the FalconView gym sets the standard in Colorado Springs and earns the top spot on this list.
Source: Rent. / The Residences at Falcon North
The first thing you notice when you walk into the fitness center at The Residences at Falcon North is the humongous square skylight smack dab in the middle of the gym. This unique feature supplies the fitness center with a ton of natural light and almost makes you feel like you’re actually outside.
As far as equipment goes, this gym features top-of-the-line resources including a multi-purpose structure at the center with everything from heavy ropes to chin-up bars and even a punching bag. Bottom line, this Northeast Colorado Springs gym has what you need and then some.
Source: Rent. / University Village
Boasting an undeniably cool cabin vibe, the fitness center at University Village makes the most of its unique semi-circle footprint to create a space that is welcoming, visually appealing and the ideal spot to get your sweat on.
Set up so the cardio area has a view of the professionally manicured outdoors and designed so the machines have enough space between them to support a relaxing workout environment, this Northeast Colorado Springs fitness center is on par with some of the more expensive monthly membership gyms.
Source: Rent. / Crowne at Briargate
With multiple hydro rowing machines, top-quality stationary bikes and plenty of space for plyometrics, the Crowne at Briargate fitness center is designed to make everyone feel comfortable and motivated to accomplish their goals. Along with lots of natural light, there is also mirrored wall so lifters can check their form and, opposite that, is a mural portraying active individuals in a sea of calming colors.
Beyond that, this Briargate-based fitness oasis also boasts a dedicated yoga studio. This relaxing space is perfect for practicing yogis and anyone looking to improve flexibility and work on mindfulness without leaving the comfort of home.
Source: Rent. / Springs at Foothill Farm
As the second apartment fitness center featured on this list with garage-style doors, the Springs at Foothill Farm fitness center does an excellent job facilitating a seamless indoor-outdoor workout space. Also featuring a kettlebell station and flatscreen TVs in addition to soaring ceilings, this is a great place to get a workout in.
Located in Colorado Springs’ scenic Northgate neighborhood, this thoughtfully designed fitness center also features SmartMats to help make sure you’re stretching the essentials, a stability ball station and plenty of resistance bands for those that like to lift but want to avoid the weights.
Source: Rent. / Union Heights
The Union Heights apartment complex features a light-filled fitness center with distinct cardio and weight-lifting areas. The cardio area looks out onto the pool and provides a great view to get lost in while you work up to 10,000 steps. Featuring treadmills, ellipticals and stationary bikes, residents are free to get creative and work their legs in a number of different ways.
The lifting area at this Northeast Colorado Springs fitness center is well-equipped, properly spaced out and perfect for experienced and novice weight-lifters alike. While this may not be the largest fitness center on the list, it does a lot with a little and is more than adequate for even the loftiest fitness goals.
Source: Rent. / Woodland Hills Apartments
Woodland Hills Apartments is the perfect place for an active person to call home because of its versatility in options for recreational activity. Featuring an on-site gym with all the equipment you’d expect to find in a gym capable of supporting the residents living in the complex’s 160 units as well as a spa area and beach volleyball court, you’re never short on options for activity at Woodland Hills.
This complex also backs up to the Cottonwood Creek Trail, making it an ideal spot for people that prefer to get their steps in while immersed in the great outdoors. With views of Cottonwood Creek along the way, you won’t find a better spot to run, walk or jog in the Colorado Springs area.
Source: Rent. / Estate at Woodmen Ridge
Estate at Woodmen Ridge lies between Black Forest and Northeast Colorado Springs and benefits from its close proximity to Cottonwood Creek. While the fitness center here may not have some of the frills found at other gyms on this list, what it may lack in flash, it more than makes up for in versatility.
Featuring a stability ball station, outside views for all of the cardio machines, and plenty of space for free weight lifting and full-body stretching, this gym is capable of supporting all styles of exercise.
Bonus: There’s also a Coke machine for those that like to chase their workout with a little reward.
Source: Rent. / Knolls at Sweetgrass Apartment Homes
Boasting an all-new yoga area to supplement their traditional fitness center setup, The Knolls at Sweetgrass Apartment Homes gym represents the standard of what all modern apartment complex fitness centers should attempt to live up to. High ceilings, natural light and mirrored walls make for a perfect place to check your form while basking in the morning light before work. Sound like a good way to start your day?
Whether you’re working on flexibility, bulking up for pool season or slimming down to start the New Year, the equipment at this gym is capable of helping you reach even the most ambitious of fitness goals. If you find yourself in this Old Colorado City fitness center, you’re in for a good workout.
Source: Rent. / Enchanted Springs
With a name like Enchanted Springs, there’s a lot to live up to. Luckily for the residents of this East Colorado Springs complex, the fine people behind Enchanted Springs deliver on the promise brought on by the name. Boasting a large fitness center with pool views, this gym gives you plenty of room to work up a sweat and work out those demons.
With a free-weight station, versatile cable machine and machines designed to help rid yourself of the dreaded chicken legs, there’s a lot to do and experience in this gym if you’re the type that’s always looking to expand your workout regimen.
Stay swole in Colorado Springs
Whether you’re a CrossFit junkie, a cardio enthusiast or a dedicated yogi, there are plenty of apartment gyms throughout Colorado Springs that will perfectly meet your workout needs. Start your search with the list above and enjoy the journey toward your new apartment and its beautiful gym.
Featured image source: Rent. / The Residences at Falcon North
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Berkeley Property Management: Understanding General Wear and Tear in Rental Properties + Precautions Landlords Should Take (2023)
The third quarter of the 2021 Market Medians Report indicates a significant rise in new tenancies in Berkeley, with a 104% increase (1863 new tenancies) compared to the same period in 2020 (913). If you own a residential property in Berkeley and are hesitant about finding a new tenant due to concerns about general wear and tear, it may be worthwhile to reconsider your decision.
As a landlord, finding reliable tenants for your Berkeley property management is crucial. It is essential to comprehend the natural deterioration in rental properties and the precautions landlords should take.
Did you know?
The total average rent ceiling in Berkeley for the year 2021 stood at $2,137.60.
The concept of ‘wear and tear’ usually refers to the expected deterioration of a residence and its fixtures due to regular and foreseeable usage over a period of time. It is common to encounter damages in any residential property due to regular, everyday usage. Examples include faded wall color or cracks in corners or on the floor. Such deterioration takes place throughout a tenant’s occupancy of the property.
It is typical for your property to experience wear and tear as a result of tenant usage, so you should anticipate the following damages.
Faded or cracking paint is a common occurrence in residential properties that are in use.
As part of your Berkeley property management responsibilities, it is important to address any damages or cracks in the flooring that you may encounter and ensure they are repaired.
The doors or door frames may suffer damage due to humidity.
It is common to discover cracked window panes in the house, which can be attributed to various reasons.
Over time, the color of the carpet may diminish due to cleaning and exposure to light or chemicals.
Regular usage can damage bathroom tiles, bathtubs, and other similar fixtures.
It is essential to be aware of significant damages that can be categorized as losses to your property. Furthermore, the tenants may have purposely caused the following damages:
Carelessness can lead to the breakage of windows or doors.
Unwanted stains on the wall or wallpaper may be present, which were not approved.
Mishandling can result in a broken sink or bathtub.
Habitability and Maintenance
As a Berkeley property owner, you must understand the concept of habitability and repairs. It is mandated by regulations that rental units must be in a condition suitable for living, meeting the habitable standard. A rental unit is deemed habitable when it meets the standards outlined by state and local building and health codes, ensuring its suitability for human occupancy and prioritizing the well-being and safety of tenants.
Did you know?
California law assigns different repair responsibilities to landlords and tenants. However, landlords ultimately bear the legal obligation to ensure the habitability of their rental units.
Maintenance Duties of the Tenant
Your Berkeley property management task won’t seem difficult if you are planning to find tenants if you are aware of the maintenance rules of the tenants. According to the law, tenants are responsible for maintaining the rental units in good condition. It includes keeping the areas clean and free from damage. Tenants are also accountable for repairing any damages caused by their neglect and addressing damages caused by individuals under their responsibility, such as family members and pets.
Did you know?
According to law, when a rental unit is uninhabitable, the landlord may not have a legal obligation to make repairs if the tenant has failed to fulfill their responsibilities.
Precautions That Landlords Must Take
Making Withdrawals from Security Deposits:
If you clearly understand the concept of general ‘wear and tear,’ you would know that it is a normal occurrence. If you come across any damages caused by tenants’ negligence, you can deduct the necessary amount from their security deposit. The leading providers of property management services always suggest that it is important to familiarize yourself with local laws before taking any action in this regard.
Have Before and After Images:
Prior to the tenant’s occupancy, it is essential to capture photographs of every area within the rental unit. Remember to share these pictures with the tenants when handing over the keys. Similarly, when the tenants vacate, take photographs of the previously documented areas and compare them. This will enable a discussion on any damages that may have occurred and facilitate finding a resolution.
Tenant’s Background Check:
Among your Berkeley property management responsibilities, you must perform comprehensive background checks to ensure that responsible tenants occupy your property. Additionally, you can review all prospective tenants’ complete eviction history report before making a decision.
Endnote
As a landlord, it is wise to make informed decisions regardless of who you choose to lease your residential property to. It is advisable to familiarize yourself with state and local laws for tenants and landlords. Furthermore, finding responsible tenants is of utmost importance, so it is recommended not to rush into decisions. If you encounter difficulties reaching satisfactory resolutions even after discussions, seeking assistance from legal experts is highly recommended.
Amazon and the Amazon logo are trademarks of Amazon.com, Inc, or its affiliates. Rental providers will not refuse to rent a rental unit to a person because the person will provide the rental payment, in whole or in part, through a voucher for rental housing assistance provided by the District or federal government.
This post may contain affiliate links, which helps us to continue providing relevant content and we receive a small commission at no cost to you. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Please read the full disclosure here.
43k salary is a solid hourly wage when you think about it.
When you get your first job and you are making just above minimum wage making over $43,000 a year seems like it would provide amazing opportunities for you. Right?
The median household income is $68,703 in 2019 and increased by 6.8% from the previous year (source). Think of it as a bell curve with $68K at the top; the median means half of the population makes less than that and half makes more money.
The average income in the U.S. is $48,672 for a 40-hour workweek; that is an increase of 4% from the previous year (source). That means if you take everyone’s income and divided the money out evenly between all of the people.
But, the question remains can you truly live off 43,000 per year in today’s society since it is below both the average and median household incomes. The question you want to ask all of your friends is $43000 per year a good salary.
In this post, we are going to dive into everything that you need to know about a $43000 salary including hourly pay and a sample budget on how to spend and save your money.
These key facts will help you with money management and learn how much per hour $43k is as well as what you make per month, weekly, and biweekly.
Just like with any paycheck, it seems like money quickly goes out of your account to cover all of your bills and expenses, and you are left with a very small amount remaining. You may be disappointed that you were not able to reach your financial goals and you are left wondering…
Can I make a living on this salary?
$43000 a year is How Much an Hour?
When jumping from an hourly job to a salary for the first time, it is helpful to know how much is 43k a year hourly. That way you can decide whether or not the job is worthwhile for you.
$43000 a year is $20.67 per hour
Breakdown Of How Much Is 43k A Year Hourly
Let’s breakdown, how that 43000 salary to hourly number is calculated.
For our calculations to figure out how much is 43K salary hourly, we used the average five working days of 40 hours a week.
Typically, the average workweek is 40 hours and you can work 52 weeks a year. Take 40 hours times 52 weeks and that equals 2,080 working hours. Then, divide the yearly salary of $43000 by 2,080 working hours and the result is $20.67 per hour.
43000 salary / 2080 hours = $20.67 per hour
Just above $20 an hour.
Key Points….
That number is the gross hourly income before taxes, insurance, 401K, or anything else is taken out. Net income is how much you deposit into your bank account.
You must check with your employer on how they plan to pay you. For those on salary, typically companies pay on a monthly, semi-monthly, biweekly, or weekly basis.
Just an interesting note… if you were to increase your annual salary by $5K to $48k per year, it would increase your hourly wage to over $23 an hour – a difference of $2.41 per hour.
To break it down – 48000 salary / 2080 hours = $23.08 per hour
That difference will help you fund your savings account; just remember every dollar adds up.
How Much is $43K salary Per Month?
On average, the monthly amount would be $3,583.
Annual Salary of $43,000 ÷ 12 months = $3,583 per month
This is how much you make a month if you get paid 43000 a year.
$43k a year is how much a week?
This is a great number to know! How much do I make each week? When I roll out of bed and do my job of $43k salary a year, how much can I expect to make at the end of the week for my effort?
Once again, the assumption is 40 hours worked.
Annual Salary of$43000/52 weeks = $827 per week.
$43000 a year is how much biweekly?
For this calculation, take the average weekly pay of $827 and double it.
This depends on how many hours you work in a day. For this example, we are going to use an eight-hour workday.
8 hours x 52 weeks = 260 working days
Annual Salary of$43000 / 260 working days = $165 per day
If you work a 10 hour day on 208 days throughout the year, you make $206 per day.
$43000 Salary is…
$43000 – Full Time
Total Income
Yearly Salary (52 weeks)
$43,000
Monthly Wage
$3,583
Weekly Pay (40 Hours)
$827
Bi-Weekly Pay (80 Hours)
$1,654
Daily Wage (8 Hours)
$165
Daily Wage (10 Hours)
$206
Hourly Wage
$20.67
Net Estimated Monthly Income
$2,735
Net Estimated Hourly Income
$15.78
**These are assumptions based on simple scenarios.
43k a year is how much an hour after taxes
Income taxes is one of the biggest culprits of reducing your take-home pay as well as FICA and Social Security. This is a true fact across the board with an all salary range up to $142,800.
When you make below the average household income, the amount of taxes taken out hurts your hourly wage.
Every single tax situation is different.
On the basic level, let’s assume a 12% federal tax rate and 4% state rate. Plus a percentage is taken out for Social Security and Medicare (FICA) of 7.65%.
So, how much an hour is 43000 a year after taxes?
Gross Annual Salary: $43,000
Federal Taxes of 12%: $5,160
State Taxes of 4%: $1,720
Social Security and Medicare of 7.65%: $3,290
$43k Per Year After Taxes is $32,830
This would be your net annual salary after taxes.
To turn that back into an hourly wage, the assumption is working 2,080 hours.
$32830 ÷ 2,080 hours = $15.78 per hour
After estimated taxes and FICA, you are netting $32,830 per year, which is $10,170 per year less than what you expect.
***This is a very high-level example and can vary greatly depending on your personal situation and potential deductions. Therefore, here is a great tool to help you figure out how much your net paycheck would be.***
In addition, if you live in a heavily taxed state like California or New York, then you have to pay way more money than somebody that lives in a no tax state like Texas or Florida. This is the debate of HCOL vs LCOL.
Thus, your yearly gross $43000 income can range from $29390 to $34550 depending on your state income taxes.
That is why it is important to realize the impact income taxes can have on your take home pay. It is one of those things that you should acknowledge and obviously you need to pay taxes. But, it can also put a huge dent in your ability to live the lifestyle you want on a $43,000 income.
43k salary lifestyle
Every person reading this post has a different upbringing and a different belief system about money. Therefore, what would be a lavish lifestyle to one person, maybe a frugal lifestyle to another person. And there’s no wrong or right, it is what works best for you.
One of the biggest factors to consider is your cost of living.
In another post, we detailed the differences of living in an HCOL vs LCOL vs MCOL area. When you live in big cities, trying to maintain your lifestyle of $43,000 a year is going to be much more difficult because your basic expenses, housing, transportation, food, and clothing are going to be much more expensive than you would find in a lower cost area.
To stretch your dollar further in the high cost of living area, you would have to probably live cheap and prioritize where you want to spend money and where you do not. Whereas, if you live in a low cost of living area, you can live a much more lavish lifestyle because the cost of living is less. Thus, you have more fun spending left in your account each month.
As we noted earlier in the post, $43,000 a year is below the average income that you would find in the United States. Thus, you have to be wise with how you spend your money.
What a $43,000 lifestyle will buy you:
If you are debt free and utilize smart money management skills, then you are able to enjoy the lifestyle you want.
You are able to rent in a decent neighborhood in LCOL and maybe a MCOL city.
You should be able to meet your expenses each and every month.
Participate in the 200 envelope challenge.
Ability to make sure that saving money is a priority, and very possibly save $3000 in 52 weeks.
When A $43,000 Salary Will Hold you Back:
However, if you are riddled with debt or unable to break the paycheck to paycheck cycle, then living off of 40k a year is going to be pretty darn difficult.
There are two factors that will keep holding you back:
You must pay off debt and cut all fun spending and extra expenses.
Break the paycheck to paycheck cycle.
It is possible to get ahead with money!
It just comes with proper money management skills and a desire to have less stress around money. That is a winning combination regardless of your income level.
$43k Salary to Hourly
We calculated how much $43,000 a year is how much an hour with 40 hours a week. But, more than likely, you work more or fewer hours per week.
So, here is a handy calculator to figure out your exact hourly salary wage.
$43K a year Budget – Example
As always, here at Money Bliss, we focus on covering our basic expenses plus saving and giving first, and then our goal is to eliminate debt. The rest of the money leftover is left for fun spending.
If you want to know how to manage 40k salary the best, then this is a prime example for you to compare your spending.
You can compare your budget to the ideal household budget percentages.
recommended budget percentages based on $43000 a year salary:
Category
Ideal Percentages
Sample Monthly Budget
Giving
10%
$251
Savings
15-25%
$645
Housing
20-30%
$932
Utilities
4-7%
$143
Groceries
5-12%
$287
Clothing
1-4%
$22
Transportation
4-10%
$143
Medical
5-12%
$179
Life Insurance
1%
$11
Education
1-4%
$11
Personal
2-7%
$32
Recreation / Entertainment
3-8%
$81
Debts
0% – Goal
$0
Government Tax (including Income Tatumx, Social Security & Medicare)
15-25%
$847
Total Gross Monthly Income
$3583
**In this budget, prioritization was given to basic expenses and no debt.
Is $43,000 a year a Good Salary?
As we stated earlier if you are able to make $43,000 a year, that is a decent salary. You are making more money than the minimum wage and close to double in many cities.
While 43000 is a good salary starting out in your working years. It is a salary that you want to increase before your expenses go up or the people you provide for increase.
However, too many times people get stuck in the lifestyle trap of trying to keep up with the Joneses, and their lifestyle desires get out of hand compared to their salary. It is okay to be driving around a beater car while you work on increasing your salary.
This $43k salary would be considered a lower middle class salary. This salary is something that you can live on if you are wise with money.
Check: Are you in the middle class?
In fact, this income level in the United States has enough buying power to put you in the top 95 percentile globally for per person income (source).
The question you need to ask yourself with your 43k salary is:
Am I maxed at the top of my career?
Is there more income potential?
What obstacles do I face if I want to try to increase my income?
In the future years and with possible inflation, many modest cities a 43,000 a year will not a good salary because the cost of living is so high, whereas these are some of the cities that you can make a comfortable living at 43,000 per year.
If you are looking for a career change, you want to find jobs paying at least $65000 a year.
Is 43k a good salary for a Single Person?
Simply put, yes.
You can stretch your salary much further because you are only worried about your own expenses. A single person will spend much less than if you need to provide for someone else.
Learn exactly what is a good salary for a single person today.
Your living expenses and ideal budget are much less. Thus, you can live extremely comfortably on $43000 per year.
And… most of us probably regret how much money wasted when we were single. Oh well, lesson learned.
Is 43k a good salary for a family?
Many of the same principles apply above on whether $43000 is a good salary. The main difference with a family, you have more people to provide for than when you are single or have just one other person in your household.
The costs of raising children are high and will steeply cut into your income. As you can tell this is a huge dent in your income, specifically $12,980 annually per child.
That means that amount of money is coming out of the income that you earned.
So, the question really remains is can you provide a good life for your family making $43,000 a year? This is the hardest part because each family has different choices, priorities, and values.
More or less, it comes down to two things:
The location where you live in.
Your lifestyle choices.
You can live comfortably as a family on this salary, but you will not be able to afford everything.
Many times when raising a family, it is helpful to have a dual-income household. That way you are able to provide the necessary expenses if both parties were making 43000 per year, then the combined income for the household would be $86,000. Thus making your combined salary a very good income.
Learn how much money a family of 4 needs in each state.
Can you Live on $43000 Per Year?
As we outlined earlier in the post, $43,000 a year:
$20.67 Per Hour
$165-206 Per Day (depending on length of day worked)
$827 Per Week
$1654 Per Biweekly
$3583 Per Month
Next up is making $45000 a year.
Like anything else in life, you get to decide how to spend, save and give your money.
That is the difference for each person on whether or not you can live a middle-class lifestyle depends on many potential factors. If you live in California or New Jersey you are gonna have a tougher time than Oklahoma or even Texas.
In addition, if you are early in your career, starting out around 34,000 a year, that is a great place to be getting your career. However, if you have been in your career for over 20 years and still making $43k, then you probably need to look at asking for pay increases, pick up a second job, or find a different career path.
Regardless of the wage that you make, if you are not able to live the lifestyle that you want, then you have to find ways to make it work for you. Everybody has choices to make.
But one of the things that can help you the most is to stick to our ideal household budget percentages to make sure you stay on track.
Learn exactly how much do I make per year…
One of the best ways to improve your personal finance situation is to increase your income. Here are a variety of side hustles that are very lucrative. With time and effort, you can start enjoying the lifestyle you want.
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Step into a realm of unparalleled vacation rental mastery, where insider secrets await to catapult your property to five-star excellence. In this Redfin article, we explore these closely guarded secrets that will elevate your guests’ experience during their stay at your vacation rental
Whether you’ve already established your venture on Airbnb and VRBO, or are beginning to enter the industry in unique destinations, like the beautiful shores of Virginia Beach or the charming community of Katy, Texas, our guide will equip you with distinct strategies to unlock your property’s true potential. Ready to transform your vacation rental into an enchanting sanctuary where guests revel in unforgettable moments and glowing reviews naturally follow?
1. Become an informed and successful host in the travel and hospitality industry
Heather Bayer from Vacation Rental Formula states, “The moment you exchange your accommodation for money, you have entered the travel, tourism, and hospitality industry. It is not a passive business. Gain comprehensive knowledge through continuous learning: engage in networking, read industry-related materials, listen to informative podcasts, attend conferences, and enroll in relevant courses. Being the best-educated host on the block will be the key to your success.”
2. Set the stage for a memorable stay in the first 10 minutes
“The first 10 minutes of your guests’ stay is pivotal to their overall experience,” says Heather. “Ensure entry is easy, the temperature is right, it looks just like the photos, it smells fresh, the Wi-Fi code is prominently displayed, and there is a welcome message.”
3. Leverage the pre-stay period by sharing your local knowledge and expertise
“Don’t leave your guests wandering in tumbleweed time,” says Heather. “This is the period between booking and the stay when travelers are eagerly anticipating their vacation, yet most hosts and managers ignore this opportunity to share their local knowledge and expertise. Share your best recommendations for restaurants, tours, activities, and events way before your guests arrive. They will be able to plan and make reservations and avoid the disappointment of finding the things they want to do are sold out.
4. Make a direct booking website for your vacation rental
“Savvy owners and managers are creating content-rich websites that serve as a showcase for their location,” shares Heather. “They no longer rely on the big platforms to deliver their guests – instead, guests are being encouraged to book directly for the best value and experience.”
6. Control the guest experience by owning the entire rental stack
“In our experience, the key to maintaining a five-star rental property lies in a balanced blend of hospitality, high-quality amenities, and efficient communication. Our motto is ‘Strive not just to meet, but exceed guest expectations,’” says Murat Gocmen from MG Vacation Rentals.
“Owning the entire stack, from the cleaning company to the hot tub cleaning and snow plowing businesses, is a cornerstone of our vacation rental management strategy. It allows us to ensure an exceptional level of service and quality that’s consistent across all aspects of a guest’s experience.
Our hot tub cleaning company makes sure that this popular amenity is always in top condition, while our snow plowing company ensures clear and safe access to the property regardless of the weather, and our in-house professional cleaning service is employed after each stay to ensure a thoroughly cleaned and comfortable experience for the next guest.
By controlling these critical services, we have the ability to directly address any potential issues swiftly, maintain high standards, and uphold our promise of a pristine environment for every guest.”
In Courtesy of MG Vacation Rentals – North Lake Tahoe Vacation Rental Management Company
7. Address guest’s needs promptly
“Our most successful strategy for ensuring guest satisfaction and positive reviews has always been proactive communication,” insists Murat. “We believe in the power of listening to our guests’ needs and promptly addressing any concerns. This creates a trust-based relationship that often results in repeat bookings and glowing reviews.”
8. Personalize your amenities
“We’ve found that offering personalized amenities, like local coffee or guidebooks for local attractions, adds a special touch that enhances the guest experience. These thoughtful extras show guests that we care about their stay and are invested in making it memorable,” recommends Murat.
9. Provide feedback-driven improvements
“The main focus of creating a five-star rental experience lies in continuous improvement based on valuable guest feedback. While meticulous upkeep and personalized service are crucial, understanding guests’ unspoken needs and consistently enhancing your property based on their input is key,” shares Lotus West Properties.
“By prioritizing immaculate cleanliness and providing amenities that offer a true ‘home-away-from-home’ experience, you establish a strong foundation for guest satisfaction. Moreover, incorporating a personal touch, maintaining open communication, and actively implementing improvements based on feedback become the pillars of a rewarding and unforgettable rental experience for your guests.”
10. Deliver impeccable cleanliness
“As a frequent traveler and hospitality industry professional, I leverage specific elements to create a wow factor that ensures an exceptional experience for my guests. Anyone can provide basic accommodation, but to maintain a five-star experience, I always want to ensure immaculate cleanliness,” says ResortCleaning. “Guests should have peace of mind that your rental is cleaned to the highest standards.”
11. Shift your focus from ratings to guest care and unique experiences
“My first advice is to stop pursuing five-star ratings. It makes you one-dimensional. Instead, make it clear that your top priority is to genuinely welcome and care for your guests,” insists founding member Alan Colley of Host2Host and co-owner of Summit Prairie. “Caring is the secret sauce of superior hosts. Do your honest best to ‘sell the sizzle’ that makes your place one where a guest feels comfortable and enthusiastic about telling others why they chose you.”
12. Build a top-notch management team for the unexpected
“In my opinion, to maintain a five-star rental managed by a property management team, it is essential to uphold the highest cleaning standards, incorporate pre-checks between cleaning crews and guest check-ins, hire experienced reservationists for top-notch guest communication, and ensure the amenities are delivered as advertised,” recommends Reservation Specialists.
“Setting accurate expectations is critical. In case of unexpected circumstances, maintaining upbeat and positive communication is essential, along with providing alternative options if advertised amenities are unavailable.”
13. Have a single, dedicated point of contact for guests that can streamline communication between all channels
“The key to maintaining a five-star rental property goes well beyond mere upkeep and starts with having a dedicated point of contact for seamless communication,” suggests Jim Lagan from Home Realty LLC. “From there, having a mindset for meticulous maintenance, an unwavering focus on cleanliness, and a commitment to providing swift resolutions is what creates an exceptional experience for every guest or resident.”
14. Creating unforgettable stays goes beyond cleanliness with thoughtful details
“When it comes to running a five-star rental, it’s the details that make the difference. Immaculate cleanliness, combined with thoughtful touches like curated amenities, crafts an unforgettable guest experience,” explains Soda Stays. “It’s more than just maintaining high cleaning standards. It’s about putting your heart and soul into creating an environment where guests don’t just stay, they feel valued and appreciated. This unwavering dedication not only ensures an exceptional stay but also engraves an unforgettable experience.”
15. Manage your guest’s expectations
“I’ve managed everything from mansions in Malibu to cabins in the woods, but the best thing you can do for five-star ratings is manage guest expectations,” recommends Jeff Iloulian, CEO of HostGPO. “You should take great photos and your place should look like the photos. Is there anything guests should know about your place? Send them a message to let them know in advance. Share the amenities you provide in your listing so guests know what will be there for their stay.”
16. Provide the guests with a guidebook and all essential information about their stay
“I’ve found that answering all guests’ questions before they even have a chance to ask them through the use of a digital guidebook such as Touchstay, is essential,” says Avery Carl from The Short Term Shop. “Many guests are traveling in the evening to an area they are unfamiliar with, and having a resource prior to arrival that provides them with all the necessary information, such as the nearest grocery store and the type of coffee maker in the rental, can really take the stress off of guests after a long day of travel.”
17. The importance of high-quality products in vacation rental properties
“High-quality and durable products are crucial in a vacation rental property as they enhance the guest experience and reduce operational hassles. By providing reliable appliances, comfortable and well-kept furniture, and durable fixtures, vacation rental owners can ensure guest satisfaction, receive positive reviews, and minimize the need for frequent repairs or replacements,” insists Minoan Experience. “This not only leads to repeat bookings but also contributes to the long-term success and profitability of the vacation rental property.”
18. Positively set the ground rules
“One of the biggest keys to keeping any rental – as in not getting banned – is ensuring your guests behave respectfully in your community,” says Alexa Nota, Co-Founder and COO of Rent Responsibly. “Frame your house rules positively but clearly before guests arrive so they know what to expect. For example, for noise hours, you can say, ‘We love our neighbors and our neighborhood, so we kindly ask all guests to honor local quiet hours of 10 AM to 7 AM.’
Another tip is to offer an alternative. If you can’t accommodate many cars, for example, recommend a great parking area nearby so guests don’t park where it disrupts nearby homes.”
19. Quick tips for managing your vacation rental listing
Lifty Life provides a straightforward list of tips and tricks with managing rental vacation properties “to enhance the guest experience and satisfaction”:
Clear and accurate property descriptions: Provide detailed and accurate information about your vacation rental in your listings. Highlight the unique features, amenities, and any restrictions or limitations. Use high-quality photos that showcase the property’s best aspects.
Transparent communication: Be transparent about your rental policies, pricing, and any additional fees. Clear communication helps build trust and ensures guests have the necessary information before booking.
Thoughtful welcome pack: Create a welcome pack or basket that includes small but meaningful items such as bottled water, snacks, local maps, and guides. You can also leave a handwritten note to greet guests upon arrival. These small gestures make guests feel welcomed and appreciated.
Guest feedback and reviews: Encourage guests to leave feedback and reviews after their stay. Positive reviews can attract more guests, while constructive feedback helps you identify areas for improvement. Respond to reviews promptly and professionally, addressing any concerns or issues raised.
Flexibility and personalization: Whenever possible, try to accommodate special requests or preferences from your guests. This could include flexible check-in/check-out times, arranging transportation, or offering additional services like grocery shopping before their arrival. Personalized touches can leave a lasting impression.
24/7 support: Provide a reliable point of contact for guests in case of emergencies or any issues that may arise during their stay. Make sure they have access to a phone number or email address they can use to reach you at any time.
20. Invest in your vacation rental
“The number one trick to keeping your property rated as a five-star rental is understanding that, as owners, we must be willing to invest each year in the upkeep and maintenance of our properties,” suggests Norman Block from Block & Associates Realty. “Everyone who buys a car knows and expects that they will spend money annually to maintain the vehicle and protect their investment in that car. Yet, when it comes to rental homes, I am always amazed that landlords are reluctant to do the same.
Every property owner should expect to spend somewhere around a fourth to a half percent of the property value annually for repairs, fix-ups, and improvements. Real estate properties are most people’s biggest assets and these properties often carry our largest debts.”
When you make the decision to move into a new home, there are a lot of questions that you need to have answered. You need to know what you can afford, whether you should stay in the same neighborhood, how many rooms you need, and more. Another big question that you may need to consider is whether it makes sense to rent a home instead of buying one. (You can use our Renting vs. Buying Calculator to help you decide.)
If you choose to rent a home, ask these questions before you say yes.
What changes can you make? Ask your landlord how much you can alter the home. Can you paint the walls a bright color? What about making holes in the wall to hang pictures? Not being able to decorate your home the way you want may alter your decision; however, there are ways to make changes without upsetting your landlord.
How is maintenance handled? Should you be making the repairs yourself or will the landlord handle them? What about emergency repairs? Ask this question before you sign on the dotted line so you’re aware of your financial responsibilities.
What’s the penalty for breaking the lease early? Most leases have a time limit and a repercussion for breaking the lease. Find out the fee in advance so you can add it into your budget should you need to move.
How are utilities factored in? Ask if you will be responsible for paying the utilities or if you’ll owe the landlord a lump sum that is included in your monthly rent. Find out the details about your monthly utility bills before the lease is signed so you can budget properly.
Ask these questions so you choose a “Home Sweet Rental” that’s right for you!
California civil rights officials have sued two Sacramento landlords, alleging they illegally harassed and evicted a tenant because she paid through a Section 8 voucher.
The lawsuit, announced Wednesday, is the first brought by the state Civil Rights Department under a 2020 state law making it illegal for landlords to refuse to accept tenants who pay with subsidies like Section 8. It comes amid criticism from tenant advocates that the department hasn’t adequately enforced the law.
“Throughout the State, rental housing costs are climbing further out of reach for many Californians,” department Director Kevin Kish said in a news release announcing the lawsuit. “Source-of-income discrimination by housing providers exacerbates this trend and is unlawful.”
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The Section 8 program is one of the U.S. government’s most powerful tools to keep rental housing affordable and to fight overcrowding and homelessness.
Administered by local agencies, Section 8 enables tenants to find housing with private landlords. The rent that tenants pay is capped at around a third of their income, with the federal subsidy making up the difference.
The demand for vouchers far exceeds supply, and low-income households can languish on waitlists for years.
In the lawsuit, filed last month in Sacramento County Superior Court, the state Civil Rights Department alleges that landlords Carlos and Linda Torres sent their tenant, Alysia Gonsalves, an eviction notice stating that they “decided to remove house from Section 8 program completely.”
After the tenant told them that evicting her for that reason was illegal, the landlords harassed her, threatened her with violence and “unlawfully locked her out of her home,” the department said in a news release.
The eviction notice and harassment were prompted by the tenant’s refusal to continue making additional monthly payments that the Torreses had demanded but were not required by the voucher program, according to the lawsuit.
The Torreses could not immediately be reached for comment. No one answered at a phone number listed in an online database for a Carlos Torres associated with the single-family home that Gonsalves rented, and the voicemail was full.
Other attempts to reach Carlos and Linda Torres were also unsuccessful.
For decades, many California property owners refused to rent to Section 8 voucher holders, citing concerns over government red tape or a belief that they are bad tenants.
Then in 2020, the new state law took effect. Advocates say the landlords’ perceptions are inaccurate and can reflect negative stereotypes of low-income individuals as well as the people of color who make up a majority of voucher holders.
Under the law, landlords aren’t required to rent to every Section 8 household but cannot refuse to consider someone merely for having a rental subsidy.
Landlords are also barred from discriminating against voucher holders in other ways, such as charging higher rent or refusing access to common areas like the pool or gym.
Despite the new protections, tenant advocates say voucher discrimination remains common and have called on state and local authorities to increase enforcement and education of landlords about the 2020 law.
In the Sacramento case, after Gonsalves said she would stop making the side payments, the Torreses told her they were “not here to support government leeches” and called the tenant, whom they perceived to be Black, the N-word, the complaint alleges.
After the Torreses locked out Gonsalves, who has a physical disability, they didn’t allow her to retrieve the furniture, medical equipment and family heirlooms she had left behind, the complaint said.
When she finally was given access months later, “many of her personal items had been damaged or destroyed,” according to the complaint.
The agency is seeking monetary compensation on Gonsalves’ behalf. The lawsuit also alleges that the Torreses discriminated against Gonsalves based on her race and color, as well as her disability.
Denise McGranahan, a senior attorney and source-of-income expert with the Legal Aid Foundation of Los Angeles, said the Civil Rights Department needs more funding to better investigate voucher discrimination. But she called the filing of the first lawsuit a “positive development.”
“Part of what happens when they file a lawsuit like this is it has a deterrent effect on other landlords who say, ‘Oh, my God, if I do this, this may happen to me,’” she said.
