Monday, December 25, 2006

Curious Creatures The Beauty Of Owning A Ferret

When it comes to getting ourselves or our children a pet, most of us think of a playful puppy or fuzzy kitty, but chances are few of us think about “adopting” a ferret. Yet, according to experts these curious creatures are quite fun-loving and lovable. Not to mention that they adapt fairly well to apartment living making them “ideal” if you’re looking for a pet that’s easy to take care of.

Furthermore, the domestic ferret is adorned by opulent fur, which varies in color from off-white to dark brown. There are also albino ferrets whose white fur fades to yellow over time and with age. And, some recent cross breeding offers a “new” breed of silver-furred ferrets.

However, experts note that taking care of a ferret does require a bit more understanding and work than with your “average” pet. Unlike a cat or dog, a ferret cannot be left unsupervised and requires a substantially sized cage (allowing the animal to roam around comfortable while you are at work).

Experts also suggest ensuring that the litter box is solid and securely attached to the floor of the cage so that it doesn’t accidentally get knocked over while the ferret is “exploring” and playing.

Ferrets do also need time to roam free. In fact, experts recommend at least on hour of supervised exercise daily. But, they suggest airing on the side of caution, since their curious nature can cause them to go exploring or to wander off and potentially getting hurt. Also, because they are relatively small and lightweight they can easily burrow into small spaces, urging experts to suggest keeping a keen eye out on your pet’s activities, as well as covering up any holes, cracks, or other crevices and small spaces.

Ferrets, under the proper care and supervision can live to be 10 years old. Experts remind ferret owners (or want-to-be owners) that ferrets are carnivores and should be fed high quality, dry cat food. Also, they should occasionally be offered small chunks of veggies or fruit, and bathed once a week using a mild shampoo. And, don’t forget to clip the claws periodically.

Pugs Diet Do is and Do nots

Who can resist the loving and comical nature of the pug, a breed of dog who's popularity has exploded since the release of movies such as "Men in Black," "The Adventures of Milo and Otis," and the animated Disney movie," Pocahontas". Pugs are an excellent breed choice for children, are inherently good-natured, and are particularly adaptable to apartment living due to their minimal exercise requirement. But before one decides to welcome a pug into the family, certain considerations must be taken, including concerns regarding diet.

There are a wide range of commercial choices available today for your dog, but choosing a dog food produced by a large, reputable company, or one recommended by your veterinarian, is probably your safest, easiest bet for insuring a healthy diet for your pug. These foods are generally produced and bagged in dry form or are available in the moist, canned variety and contain a healthy balance of essential grains and protein. There are many varieties available from puppy, weight control, to senior foods which are geared toward the particular canine consumer's needs. Depending on the variety necessary for your pet, nutrient and caloric content of these foods are altered to suit the dog's lifestyle or age.

Be mindful that pugs have a genetic disposition to becoming overweight if their diet is not monitored closely. These little pooches have a tendency to eat endlessly, as long as food accessible. Therefore, it is recommended that the quantity of food provided is closely monitored. It is suggested that meals are scheduled twice daily in order to develop a regular feeding routine and to help satisfy their insatiable desire to eat. Splitting meals into two separate feedings also aids digestion, and many believe, minimizes the dreaded passage of gas from your furry friend.

Still, some pug owners complain that their pet eats too fast, often resulting in upset stomachs and vomiting. Brent, the owner of two pugs complains, "Bug eats so fast that he is not chewing his food. He frequently throws up right after he eats."

There are a few tricks you may like to try with your pug to keep him from gobbling food too quickly: Before filling the dog bowl with food, place a large rubber ball or unopened soup can at the bottom of the dish. Then fill the bowl with the appropriate amount of food. Providing food in this manner may help to minimize your pug's ability to inhale food too quickly, since he is forced to take time to eat around the object placed in his bowl.

Another method that some pug owners have proclaimed "tried and true" in resolving a pug's gulping habit is to switch from a regular dog food bowl to a cookie sheet or jelly roll pan with sides. Sprinkling the food across the cookie sheet will force the dog to graze a bit over his meal and may encourage more thorough chewing before he seeks out his next morsel or two.

"Recreational chewing time" must also be considered in regard to your pug's consumption and digestion. The incredibly strong jaws and chewing urges of the pug make it easy for the pug to tear even the strongest of chew bones or toys to pieces. Be careful when selecting leisure time chew-bones for the pug. Rawhide is a poor choice. More often than not, large pieces of rawhide are broken off and swallowed whole by the dog and are often vomited later or worse, may create an obstruction in the pug's digestive system. There are countless stories about owners who have helplessly watched as their beloved pet has choked on a chunk of rawhide that has become lodged in the animal's throat. Not only can they be dangerous, but a rawhide chew really contains no real nutritional value and only adds to the dog's caloric intake.

Many dogs enjoy gnawing on nylon bones which are often flavored with chicken or beef in order to make them more appealing to the pet. But be watchful of large hunks that can be chewed off and swallowed by the dog as well, which may also result in an expensive veterinary bill - or worse.

Pig ears are the preferred choice for many dog owners. They last quite a long time, they are suitably sized, the flavor is appealing, and they are very difficult for a pet with even the strongest of jaws to ingest. They are hard, tough, and are a safe choice for hours of chewing satisfaction for the pug.

Some pug owners have noted yeast build-up in their pet's ears or around the nasal area. The advice of many is to feed your pug a few tablespoons of yogurt daily which may help to combat this common ailment. Julie, the owner of two pugs said, "I give my dogs a few tablespoons of yogurt every day. Their ears used to constantly have yeast build-up, but since I've started the routine with yogurt, their ears have been clear." Many have realized the benefit of yogurt's combative acidophilus ingredient against these yeast infections and note a drastic improvement in the appearance and health of their dog's nose and ears.

Be observant of your pug's diet and note any changes in digestive patterns. Staying keyed in on your pug habits and needs are the key to a long and healthy relationship between you and your canine companion.

Coping with the limited space of an apartment

Most people who decide to move to Spain are seeking a change in lifestyle. It might involve examining priorities. Ultimately many of those priorities will be directly or indirectly associated with money. For a great deal of people the only way they will be able to at least to begin a new life in Spain, is to make some sacrifices. One of those sacrifices may be exchanging their comfy, central heated “castle” for a more basic apartment. Those who have decided to downsize from an average sized home with a loft and garage in the UK to an apartment in Spain will need to assess their belongings.

In order to live in apartment, you can really only keep what you need. If you are lucky enough to have a “trastero” (small store room) included than you are slightly more flexible. However, there is usually limited space within an apartment itself and once the wardrobes are full with your clothes, it doesn’t leave space for much else. It is particularly difficult if you have children because of the obvious accumulation of toys.

It requires you to be quite ruthless to part with the belongings that have surrounded you either within your sight or stuffed away in a loft for a significant part of your life. But it must be done. Down grading to an apartment is not for sentimentalists and if you really want to hang on to your clutter you might want to consider the option of storage.

Another tip to overcome the limited space is to think carefully when furnishing your new property. Look for furniture which has a dual usage. For example a huge trunk can be filled with books and used as a coffee table. Look for beds with space underneath, okay it might not be good from a feng shui point of view, but I am sure the feng shui bosses would rather everything be under the bed than all over the floor as a hazard. You can use the space to store bed linen in those specially designed slim boxes. Invest in a couple of those vacuum bags to store away duvets during the summer.

Looking for a sideboard? How about one with drawers. The same goes for a bedside table. It takes up floor space so make sure that it has drawers. Make storage a priority when you are looking for furniture as you will certainly use it. You might even seek the assistance of the professionals such as a furniture broker who will put you in touch with suppliers who can assess your needs such as www.completelyfurniture.com

If you have a spare single wardrobe, fit two or three shelves in to hide away towels, tools etc. Don’t forget you won’t have an airing cupboard or a cupboard under the stairs – all those hidey holes that you took for granted!

Living in an apartment really does take minimalism to the extreme and you will have to use your imagination to store away everyday items or you will soon feel as though you are bursting at the seams.

If you are making the move to an apartment in Spain this year review what you are taking with you, and then get rid of half it and a month later half again! Of course, it is entirely up to you what you do with your belongings but many people choose to sell things at car boot sales, put ads in local papers or if you are feeling generous give the lot to charity!

Apartments They Might Be Right For You

Are you just about to graduate from college? Are you hoping to move in to a little place of your own? Does the idea of buying a house right now seem a little bit out of your league? Are you about to start a new job and now you need to find a close place to live? If any of these things are true of you, then apartments might be the best option for you.

Apartments can be great for young people right out of college for a lot of reasons. First, apartments are affordable. At this point in your life you probably do not have thousands of dollars to put down on a house, but surely you can come up with a few hundred dollars from last summer's job to make your first rent payment. Depending on the location you hope to live in, apartments can begin anywhere around three hundred dollars a month and go upward to thousands of dollars a month. But don't let this price range scare you off. Find a trusty roommate or two and it will cut your rent payment down quickly. And besides, after four years of dorm life, who wants to live all alone anyway? Apartments can be a great place to begin adult life with a couple of friends.

Another great thing about apartments is that they are almost maintenance free. The nice thing about not owning your own place is that someone else takes care of a lot of the problems that might arise. Don't like to mow the lawn in the summer? Don't worry, most landlords take care off all of the outside maintenance - mowing, shoveling, weeding, and plowing. And if anything should break inside of your new little home, have no fear; help is only a phone call away.

A third great reason to look into apartments is that they provide an easy way to meet people. Living in apartments means you will have neighbors all around, so meeting people is just a knock on a door away. In no time at all you might find that your neighbors become much more like friends. You can throw parties and invite the people from all the surrounding apartments. Or, for the domestically inclined, you can always find someone with that extra egg or cup of sugar when you are short. For young people just entering the work world, apartments can offer a community without having to get out into a new community.

So don't fret if purchasing a house seems unlikely because it probably is for most people your age. Take some time to look for apartments in whatever area you are settling in. You can look online, in a newspaper, or contact a realtor for help. And enjoy yourself! Life in apartments can be fun and exciting!

How To Care For A Potbellied Pig

Although for many people the word pig conjures up images of a farmyard, potbellied pigs are increasingly popular as domestic pets. They are much smaller than the standard farm pig, and commonly seen with mixed black and white coloring; or all black, all white, or silver coloring. Adults typically weigh around 125-200 lbs, are fully-grown at 2-3 years and are about the height of a medium sized dog. They have a projected lifespan of 15-20 years, and are relatively low maintenance pets, requiring roughly the same amount of daily care as a dog. Potbellied pigs are popular city pets, and their small size lends itself well to apartment living.

The potbellied pig originated in Vietnam, and is a combination of several breeds. Given the chance, they can interbreed with common farm pigs and wild boars, as they are all part of the genus sus scrofa. Potbellied pigs are exotic pets, which can make them a bit more troublesome than a cat or a dog for this reason: not all veterinarians treat them which can make it difficult to get these pets the care they require. Pigs need their tusks trimmed every couple of years, and may need their hooves trimmed annually. A veterinarian, or an owner who has learned how from a doctor, can perform these tasks. Pigs will need to be spayed or neutered and require regular vaccinations.

Potbellied pigs make enjoyable pets because they are very intelligent and affectionate. However, like many animals they are prone to laziness and aggression if not properly exercised and socialized. At times, an adult pig may rebel against the owner in so-called “dominance aggression”, and will need to be reprimanded gently yet strongly, and taught to respect the owner’s authority. They can be well trained, if properly motivated by food and other rewards. They take well to positive reinforcement when they are behaving well, but should not be physically punished.

Pigs should have daily leash-led walks or they will gain weight. They will eat nearly endless amounts of food, particularly high-carbohydrate unhealthy food, if allowed, so it is vital to restrict your pet’s access to the food it craves. They are relentless in searching for food, and should be kept far away from the kitchen or any food storage. Special pig feed can be purchased in a pet store or special-ordered. Pigs are omnivores, equally interested in vegetables, meats, sweets, and carbohydrate-based foods.

Pigs are social herd creatures, and it is often recommended that they be kept in pairs or groups, especially if they are kept outside the house. This keeps them stimulated and active. Because of their intelligence, if pigs get bored they may become destructive and troublesome. Inadequate attention or playtime can compel pigs to do anything from rooting up plants to taking up linoleum floors and eating drywall. Pigs need to be kept in their own confined area of the house, preferably an entire room, if not a confined outdoor area. They are clean and essentially odor-free, so it is not usually difficult to find a room where they can roam.

Like any pet, a potbellied pig is a serious commitment, and requires some specialized care that demands time and resources. Shelters are overflowing with abandoned pigs whose owners did not anticipate the kind of attention that their pet would need. However, the intelligence, affection and personality of a well trained, adequately cared for potbellied pig can be very rewarding for the prepared, responsible owner.

Living In Harmony Dealing With Dreadful Neighbors

Having bad neighbors is unavoidable. This, regrettably, is universal and it stretches across all racial ethnicities. From the nicest suburbs to the shabbiest areas of the city, the chance that you will have an annoying person living in close proximity to you is very high. The fact that neighbors sometimes can’t get along is a common people problem and you’d better know how to handle people; if not, you may very well be on your way to the big house. Let’s say you worked hard all day and have to come home to the latest pimp movie soundtrack pulsating from your ceiling; you may not be able to keep yourself from charging toward that upstairs apartment, round house kicking the door down and bashing that surround sound system in with a baseball bat. There are alternatives, you know. Check out a list of my tips that just might keep you from obtaining your new, pretty cell block number.

KNOW WHOM YOU’LL BE RENTING FROM

1. Before renting out an apartment, always check out the rental agency or landlord you’ll be renting from. Get online and do some research. Online, there are a few apartment rating websites and if you must, (and trust me, you must) talk to people who already live there. A majority of the time, it’s simple. Bad management does even worse business. There’s always a vacancy because no one wants to live there. In my opinion, one of the best things you can do when apartment hunting, is get a referral from someone else, preferably a friend. Okay, so you don’t have any friends; again, check out the place as thoroughly as possible before you make a decision that can aggravate you for the entire length of your lease.

MOVE WITH CAUTION. THINK BEFORE ACTING

2. If you fell to your knees in praise when you saw the apartment, moved in and didn’t research your landlord, more power to you. Your neighbors might be wonderful. That’s great! However, if you moved in and now your neighbors have become your worst nightmare, the seemingly easy way to handle things would be to go to them and kindly ask them to turn the music down, but be wary about doing this. Why, because it rarely works. Sure, you might have a good neighbor who didn’t know they were disturbing you. In that case, you knock on the door and ask them to turn their TV down. If they apologize and turn it down, your problem is solved and life goes on. But, if you’re like a ton of us who has experienced the person who knows they are disturbing the peace and they really don’t care, your best bet would be to not knock on their door because it will enrage them. More than likely, the music is going to play louder and longer and you’re going to be livid.

My suggestion is to document the time and the dates of every disturbance. Then e-mail your landlord every time there is commotion. The reason I say e-mail your landlord rather than call is because your email is proof you asked the landlord to resolve this issue. I mean, it is their job isn’t it? In the long run, it will really help to print and save all of you and your landlord’s cyber communication because watch this:

DO SAVE DOCUMENTATION

3. If your landlord responds, “I already contacted your neighbor and you all should be able to work it out amongst yourselves,” you may need all of that documentation to help get you out of your lease. If you’re like every other person who has ever called a Tenants Association or organizations just like it, you may have contacted your landlord on many occasions about the situation. Your landlord is about cashing rent checks and they may not put out a rent paying tenant who is causing a ruckus regardless of what your lease says about ‘quiet enjoyment’.

I’m even willing to bet your landlord is sick of you and is now labeling you as the ‘troublemaker’. So don’t think for one minute if you break your lease and move, they won’t still sue you for the money owed on the remainder of the lease and you don’t want that. Here’s why:

LOOK INTO BUYING OR RENTING TO OWN A HOUSE

4. You may want to concentrate on getting your credit in order. There is nothing worse, and I speak from experience, than wanting to make a major purchase like a car or a home and not being able to because of a blemish on your credit. Recognize early in the game that apartment living is not for you if you have a problem with the sound of a herd of cattle stampeding over you. Put yourself in the position financially and credit wise, so when you’re fed-up and ready to leave apartments behind completely, you can make that move quickly.

MOVE ONTO BRIGHTER HORIZONS

5. Learn to let go of your place if you’re unhappy. Stop going tit for tat with your neighbors and stop calling your landlord. If you’re miserable, move. No apartment is worth the energy it takes to complain all the time. To make matters worse, if you start to complain too much, everything that you’re fighting against, you will start to mirror. If you’re not careful, ultimately, you will become the dreadful neighbor.

Wednesday, December 20, 2006

Windows How They Improve Your Homes

Do you think your home needs a makeover? Well one of the easiest ways of giving your home a new look without too much expenditure is to get creative with the window treatment of your house.

There are a range of options in window treatments that range form funky to sophisticated. And depending on your home d�cor and your personal preferences you have a myriad looks to choose from. If you find the conventional drapes pass�, then switch to something more Bohemian. Beaded curtains are available in a wonderful array of bright shades that will infuse energy and life into the house. Windows are not just a way for the sunlight to enter into your house. It is a channel through which the source of life flows in and makes everything nice within a house. Windows have been part of homes and houses since time immemorial. A beautiful window makes for a beautiful home too. A well sites window will make the house look alive and happening and the early morning sun through the window can make a day come alive.

Beautifying the windows is an art which good home makers master early on. Today there are a host of options available to make the window a better part of the house as against the classical square or rectangle outlet of yesteryears. Drapes make the window more appealing. The drapes are used to control the inlet of light within the room and also to control the humidity levels. Today there are a large number of options available for people to try out and experiment with. Drapes are available in a variety of shapes and textures. While drapes are one way to improve the window d�cor, there are other ways as well. For instance, you can put in a window seat in a window in the living or dining room. Add some mirror work, throw some cushions and voila! You have a great new space to relax.

If you live in an apartment and have a different shaped window, that can do with some enrichment, then put the window box and add some colorful potted plants. Not only does the nature's solution turn out to be the best amongst others, it is a sure shot way to ensure that the surroundings are clean and there is a whiff of fresh air when ever you open the window. Treat the window well and be rest assured that the window will be a star attraction of your house.

Guide to Soundproofing an Apartment or Condominium

Do you have loud neighbors? Does the lady upstairs stomp around her apartment or condominium? Do the folks next to you play their TV too loud? Are kids constantly screaming and being rambunctious? If you answered "yes" to any of these questions, I will give you step-by-step do it yourself instructions on soundproofing your apartment.

The key to soundproofing an apartment is to block sound transmission. You will easily accomplish this with a product known as mass loaded vinyl barrier. More effective than a sheet of lead for stopping sound, vinyl barrier uses its weight (up to 2 lbs. per square foot) to stop sound transmission dead in its tracks.

The easiest and simplest way to soundproof your walls is to apply furring strips to the existing drywall and then apply the vinyl barrier. It is important that an air gap be left between the existing drywall and the vinyl barrier, as this will maximize the sound deadening properties of the mass loaded vinyl barrier. After applying the vinyl barrier (you can use nails or staples) to the furring strips, you want to seal up the seams using a silicon adhesive. This is a critical step, as sound will pass through any opening. Add another layer of drywall after you have applied and sealed the vinyl barrier to notice a dramatic decrease in sound transmission.

If you do not wish to use furring strips on the wall, you can use vinyl barrier foam composite that will provide you with the separation necessary for adequately blocking sound. The treatment above for walls may also be used for ceilings to keep sound out from the dear lady upstairs that stomps around her apartment.

If you are lucky enough to have a drop ceiling in your apartment, soundproofing the ceiling is quite simple. Simply purchase mass loaded vinyl barrier for placement above the ceiling grid. The air space between the grid and the actual ceiling above will be the air barrier necessary to stop transmission, while the vinyl barrier laid over the ceiling tiles will provide the mass to block sound from transmitting. Another alternative is to apply the vinyl barrier to the rafters if they are exposed. This will prevent the grid from having to support the weight of the vinyl barrier, as well as making future removal and replacement of ceiling tiles a breeze.

Should vertical space be available, you may want to soundproof your apartment by adding acoustical ceiling tiles. If a grid is already in place, purchase acoustical ceiling tiles to replace the existing tiles. This step alone will help greatly reduce sound transmission. You can take it one-step further by adding a layer of mass loaded vinyl barrier above the ceiling tiles, providing the utmost in soundproofing.

You may have read this far, thinking "what about the floors?" Soundproofing your floor is just as easy as your walls or ceiling. To do this, you will want to pull up the existing carpet and padding. Once you have the sub-floor exposed, use a layer of vinyl barrier foam composite, with the foam side facing the floor. After laying the vinyl barrier composite, use a silicone adhesive to seal the creases. When finished, simply relay your padding and carpet.

Surviving the 2005 2006 Winter heating bills

Heating your home or apartment is not just something you want to do during the winter months, it's something you need to do to survive. With energy prices expected to be up to 50% higher this winter many folks are actualy scared, because they find it hard to pay the heating bills every winter, and this year may be the worse in history.

I live in a small apartment in the Northeast U.S. in the state of Pennsylvania. In the winter it gets very cold here. It's normal for us to have very cold temperatures from November - March, and during the months of January and February, we often have weeks where the daytime temperature never gets above 15 degrees.

I heat my apartment here with baseboard electric, and it's very expensive. I usualy only heat two rooms, sometimes three. My monthly heating bill used to average $200 during the winter months sometimes closer to $250. My apartment is not insulated that good or built correctly, because the floor gets very cold during the winter and feels like a refrigerator during the cold months, requiring me to wear slippers most of the time.

Making a few alterations I managed to lower my winter heat bill to an average of $125 per month, which is a nice savings for me. If you follow the tips I am giving you here, you should also be able to lower your winter heat bill nicely, and save yourself some money.

Heat Bill Saving Tips - Winter Heating Tips For Saving Money:

1. Lower The Thermostat
Lowering the thermostat is the easiest and one of the most cost effective ways of saving money. Try dropping it a few degrees, maintaining safe levels for good health.

2. Don't Block The Heat
Don't block the floor registers, baseboards or radiators with rugs, furniture or other items. The warm air must be able to circulate aroundthem for maximum efficiency.

3. Seal The Gaps And Cracks
Walk around the outside of your home or apartment, and slowly examine the windows, doors, siding, water faucets and any other through-the-wall openings.Any such cracks or openings should be caulked and sealed. Cold air can easily get in, and warm air escape.

4. Clean The Filters
If your furnace or heating system uses filters, make sure you clean orcheck them monthly. A dirty or clogged filter makes the heating system work harder and produce less heat, wasting your money.

5. Reverse The Fans
If you have ceiling fans that have a reverse setting, turn them on lowand on reverse when your using a lot of heat. The warm air rises and often gets trapped near the ceiling area, the reverse air flow from the fan will help circulate the warm air around your
whole room.

6. Unleash The Beast
If your furnace seems to heat the whole basement, open the door going down to it, The heat accumilating near it will rise and can help heat the living areas.

7. Heat From Cooking
If you do any winter baking in the oven, always leave the oven door openwhile it cools down, to allow the heat to help keep you warm while making sure any children and pets are not in harms way.

8. Close The Dampers
Warm air rises fast, so make sure when your chimney fire is completely out, that you close the damper, or else your letting warm air escape faster than a prisoner on the run.

9. Cut The Branches
Trees protect us from wind and help shade us from the hot summer sun, but they can also cost us money. Inspect your trees in the cool months and cut off any branches that block the winter sun from getting into your windows. That winter sun is at a lower angle then it is in the summer, but it still helps warm a room when it shines in.

10. Dress Unlike The Rest
If you sit around the house in shorts and a loose fitting shirt or blouse in the winter you will probably feel cold, and have the desire to turn up the thermostat. Dress for the season, and try wearing a sweater. Dressing warmer will make you feel warmer, so you can keep the thermostat turned down lower and save money.

The Quest For A Perfect Apartment

The search for the perfect apartment need not be an ordeal. If you go about the process systematically, then you will find the most convenient as well as perfect apartment. The first step is to jot down answers to practical aspects like how big should the apartment be. What size of rooms do I need for my furniture? Do I need one bedroom or more? Do I need parking? Should there be a park/school nearby?

Study a map of the city you are going to live in and locate where your place of work is. Then study the residential possibilities in and around that area. Or decide, I don't want to be near work but in a beautiful, healthy, and safe environment. Next, work out your finances. Decide how much rent you can afford and whether you can give a substantial deposit.

Keep a watch out for "apartments available" classifieds in the newspapers and magazines and, spread the word around that you are looking for a place. Tell the people at work, the grocer, newspaper boy, as well as local agents (however you will need to pay their charges). Be innovative and take a drive around areas you have short listed as "possibilities" and look for signs that indicate there are places for rent.

View the apartments in the day time. Ask others who live in the building or area what their experience has been. Read through the agreement carefully and check whether the electricity, heaters, and air conditioners are working and whether the plumbing is functional.

Check things like is there a separate entrance, enough closets, does the building have washer/dryer facilities, what about cable TV and internet, and are pets and children welcome, what are the rules to be followed by tenants? Check how you feel about the apartment. Think do you see yourself living here? Do the windows have a view or do they look into other homes.

Be vigilant and check the condition of the building, what are the hallways and surroundings like, is there any garbage dump close by? Are windows safe and secure, does the building have adequate security, what are the nearby amenities, are you to pay for utilities or is it included in the rent?

In order to establish your credentials as a suitable tenant you will need to show the landlord a credit evaluation, your pay stub, or tax return, one or two references, as well as give a small introduction of yourself explaining where you are from, where you work, how many people will live at the apartment and so on.

The key to success is not to overspend and keep to your budget. Rent should ideally not exceed one quarter of the monthly income. Ensure that the neighborhood is safe and has everything you need close by. Always do comparison shopping. Have a clear idea of what rents are in the neighborhood. Be careful and check the apartment and neighborhood out at least three times at different times in the day.

Be sure the lease protects your rights as well as that of the landlord. Find out what rules would apply if for some reason you need to break the lease before it runs out. A place must give you a feeling of warmth and welcome and ideally the neighbors must be friendly.

Home From Home Sweet Home

Tired of staying in hotels when you are on vacation, or on business for that matter, well here's an answer. Why not rent a serviced apartment when you make your next trip? A plethora of companies offer apartment rental the world over and one of the simplest ways of making contact is via the Internet. So let's see what's available.

For those visiting London, Europa House in the city's fashionable Little Venice area is an ideal location. Close to Paddington Station there is easy and fast access to London's Heathrow Airport. The block has entry to 3 acres of landscaped gardens, which includes a kiddie's playground. This is ideal for families with young children who are usually very constrained by big hotels, the hushed corridors of which are not very children friendly. Apartments in Europa House come with one or two bedrooms. The larger two-bedroom version can sleep up to six people. This sized accommodation is ideal for families or groups of friends travelling together. These are luxurious living spaces and come equipped with all the comforts of home. There is a telephone as well as high speed internet access, so there is no problem keeping in touch with the office or the folks back home. For in home entertainment there is cable or satellite television ensuring there is no need to be bored on those evenings you stay in. after a hectic day's sightseeing or shopping. Then there is the kitchen, which again is fully equipped coming with full cooking facilities dishwasher and washer dryer. This provides an opportunity to eat just as you would at home and also affords a chance to entertain friends or business colleagues in comfort. There is also a maid service five days a week and for parents eager to go out in London to sample restaurants, theatres and night life there is a baby sitter available at extra cost.
For the budget conscious traveler renting an apartment such as these in Europa House works out very cost effective. An overnight stay in one of the two bedroom apartments costs on average �220.00. This split six ways comes out at �36.66 that is less than a very ordinary bed and breakfast with no cooking, laundry or entertainment facilities.

If we go to the other end of the world, in Australia, Melbourne's Darling Towers in Collins Street is a convenient location close to the nightlife and restaurants of South Bank and a stone's throw from the Yarra River. The Tower block offers 1,2 and 3 bedroom-serviced apartments, which cost out at an average of A$ 250.00 per night. Again this compares more than favorably with hotel accommodation. For those whose purse strings are tight there are plenty of cheaper properties around and about .So next time you fly away for business or pleasure consider the advantages of renting a serviced apartment rather than booking into a hotel.

Tuesday, December 19, 2006

Holiday Apartments In Tuscany

If you are going to stay in Tuscany for an extended period of time for your holidays, then it is preferable to stay in a Tuscany holiday apartment. They are much more affordable than villas or farmhouses and there are such a wide variety of apartments available in Tuscany.

Tuscans in the countryside often rent out their farmhouses which are being restored into apartments to supplement their incomes. The prices are cheap and most of the apartment owners are easy going people. Plus, such tuscany holiday apartments offers great panoramic views of the tuscan countryside. You can surround yourself in nature with vineyards and grapevines nearby. Definitely a great choice for agritourists.

If you are in one of the major tuscan towns or cities such as Florence or Pisa, you will find beautiful apartments that are available. Holidays Apartments in the Tuscan cities are unique with cream-colored walls draped with flowers. They also offers breathtaking views around the city. Prices vary a lot depending on how luxurious you want your holiday apartment to be. Typically they cost between 100 USD to a few thousand a night.

Whether you are vacationing in the tuscan countryside or city, a holiday apartment overlooking the breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside, basking in the tuscan sun is a memorable experience.

How to save a fortune on a holiday in Spain

Had a great holiday recently for a fraction of the normal price. There are plenty of ex pats now living in Spain who regularly let out their apartments and with flights being so cheap I saved a fortune. I found the apartment I stayed in, which was fantastic, at the following internet address:-

http://www.minjuphols.com/

The Apartment cost me just �200 per week and there was four of us! The flights from the UK were just �300 given the flew out late at night. So it was a holiday for 4 people costing a total of �500.
Often the apartments you rent are somebody's home and as such they are really well looked after, especially as many of the people who own them are now retired. Of course you are expected to look after them and a small breakages deposit was required. In any event I got my deposit of �50 back straight away after the holiday.
We stayed in Benalmadena which was fantastic, it has a great beach, excellent marina and apartments themselves had a pool with water slides. Benalmadena is situated on the Costa del Sol and lies between Torremolinos and Fuengirola, approximately 15 minutes from Malaga airport which was ideally located for travelling further afield to places such as Granada and Seville. It is made up of three different areas, Benalmadena Costa, Arroyo de la Miel and Benalmadena Pueblo.

The complex was surrounded by sub-tropical gardens and apparantly had one of the largest private swimming pools in Europe. A poolside bar/restaurant is also available during the summer season.

Great Dane Apartment Dog

Most people see a big dog and think that they need a large living space. Well, for the most part they would be correct, but some dogs, like the Great Dane, are just as happy with a small space as with a large one. Ironically, most large dogs have a lower activity level, while smaller dogs require a much greater level of activity. Giant breed dogs usually require two good long walks a day. Small breed dogs generally require more intensive free play as well as a few walks daily.

This gentle giant loves to lie around and only requires at a minimum a good long walk once a day. Once house trained, this breed will let you know when its time for her walk. The Great Dane does not bark much and only becomes aggressive when the circumstances require it. Larger urban areas are no problem for the Great Dane as it loves everyone and needs to be around people. Dignified, kind, and affectionate, it is playful and patient with children. However, because of her giant size and head strong nature, she should be socialized and obedience trained at an early age and always kept on leash. The Dane can even adapt to being left on her own during the day as long as she gets a walk and lots of companionship in the morning and evening.

Like the cartoon dog Marmaduke, this breed is a lovable family pet; loyal to the bone, affectionate, responsible and dependable.

As an apartment dog, she will need a few things to make her and you happy:
1. A space of her own. Whether a corner in your bedroom or a space in the hallway, you will need to provide at least a little spot for him to call his own.
2. A very soft bed or large cushion to lie on or she'll be up on the furniture like no tomorrow.
3. A raised dish.
4. And for those colder climates a coat or cape to keep warm on those long daily walks.

As long as you provide a little space in your home, get some obedience training and provide the exercise this breed needs, then the Great Dane makes an excellent apartment dog. Loyal and brave, she will guard your property. Relatively bark free, gentle and affectionate, she will win over the neighbours. Have an apartment but want a big dog, then get yourself the gentle giant, get a Great Dane!

Travel to Spain Enjoy a Spring Day in Barcelona

One of the most fashionable and cosmopolitan European cities is Barcelona, the right place to enjoy a spring day walking through its magnificent streets, shopping or finding a Barcelona holiday apartment. Yes, after your arrival at this gorgeous city it is more likely you will want to stay, so finding an accommodation in Barcelona is a must.

On your next visit to Spain, check with your travel agent for possibilities in receiving both cheap international plane tickets and Barcelona apartment rental facilities, including home-stay with selected families of the best neighborhoods, or live in a fully equipped Barcelona holiday apartment.

For those who prefer home-stay, the packages usually include breakfast and dinner with the family, while the Barcelona apartment rental does not include any meal options. Cheap international plane tickets in addition to a home-stay in the city are usually marketed as "Student Packages" but anyone can take these specials.

In fact, the advantage of an accommodation in Barcelona with a local family gives people the opportunity to learn Spanish and the regional culture. Either some packages include expressly a series of intensive Spanish Lessons at home-stay or local institutes groups per levels, and includes all course materials and Internet facilities.

From the perspective of a Barcelona holiday apartment, you can enjoy the historic treasures of the city, or simply relax after spending a spring day at any of the beaches nearby, such as Nova Icaria, Bogatell, Mar Bella and Barceloneta, all around the Olympic village and marina undertaken for the 1992 Olympics, including its popular symbol "Naranjito" (little orange)

An accommodation in Barcelona next to these installations include beautiful sights of the Mediterranean sea, but also the amenities of the beaches and facilities such as disabled access, sun beds, showers and lifeguards in season time. Locals have made an Olympic effort maintaining the pristine cleanliness of both sand and sea after the Olympics games.

Whichever your choice, booking in advance round cheap international plane tickets and Barcelona apartment rental, is a must since Barcelona is one of the most wanted tourist destinations in Spain, with a number of attractions ranging from the best museums and historical routes, to beaches excursions and water sports.

Pick up services at the city's airport on arrival and departure dates are usually included with your accommodation in Barcelona, with bilingual support wherever you go, and particularly if you are traveling to learn the language through a supervised program or at home-stay.

The Search for an Apartment

This article may be reprinted and redistributed freely as long as the entire article, byline and bio are included.

You've been waiting for this moment all your life and now it's here. You are looking for your first apartment. Ahh, the badge of independence, no more parents nagging and asking you: Where are you going? Who are you going with? What time are you coming back? What
are you going to do there for so long? It's enough to drive you insane, but you have finally saved up enough money to start looking. Or so you think.

When thinking of getting an apartment you have to consider a number of things. To help us freedom seekers, I have asked Dr. Cheryl Burton, a licensed real estate broker in White Plains, NY to give some advice on how to get an apartment.

Before the search In order to live comfortably, party and manage essential living expenses such as food, phone bill, electricity and hot water, Burton says you should expect to spend at least 1/3 of your monthly salary.

According to Burton, "You should budget what you are able to spend on the apartment and save about three times that amount," before you start looking. That will cover one month's rent, one month's security '(some landlords may charge two month's security)' and a realtor's fee, if you plan on using one. In Connecticut, unlike New York, not all realtors charge so make sure you ask first. If you have to use a realtor be advised that they might request the equivalent of
one month's rent as their fee while others may charge 12% to 15% of the annual gross rent. Goodness! Let's just look at that for a moment shall we? Let's say your rent is $750/month � that equals $9,000 annually. Now 15% of that is $1350! I suggest you try your best to do
the search on your own. Look in the paper or ask friends, family or co-workers. Burton says to be wary of realtors that ask for a finder's fee for an apartment list, because most times the apartments listed are already rented and your fee is non-refundable. You should save approximately two to three month's rent as a cushion, in case you have an emergency such as loss of job, illness without pay, liposuction etc.

Here's something that may have slipped your mind: credit check and references. You have to expect the landlord to check up on you to make sure you are able to pay the rent and that you won't tear the apartment down. "A non-refundable administrative or processing fee
and a face-to-face interview may be required," says Burton. During the search
Now that we have gotten the expenses out of the way, let's move on to the apartment itself. Make sure the apartment is in good condition, the building well lit and elevators operational. It would be great if there is a security system. If you have windows facing fire escapes make sure they are locked and secured.

"You should never make agreements for repairs that are the responsibility of the landlord without some agreement for compensation i.e discount on the month's rent or direct
reimbursement," says Burton. When you move in, make a checklist of all the contents and the condition of the apartment so that when you move out you won't have any problem getting your security deposit back. Another suggestion is to negotiate a clause in the lease for the right to sublet if for some reason you have to leave for an extended period of time i.e work related assignment or sudden imprisonment.

After you obtain the apartment you have the right to "quiet enjoyment" meaning your landlord or their designee should not be running in and out of your place whenever he/she feels like it.
Although they do need access in case you lock yourself out or any other emergency.


So, now that you are armed with a little real estate knowledge, sneaky landlords and realtors won't be able to pull the wool over your eyes. Please let me know how your search went, I may be looking for a place to crash soon.

How Can You Apply for a Furnished Apartment

Generally, when you are willing to rent a furnished apartment, you will be asked to fill in an application form by the landlord or the property management and you are ought to be asked to pay an amount of money for them to look over your application form($20 or $30 which should cover the costs for running your credit card). The application form for the furnished apartments is a typical one asking you to relate your name, current address, Social Security Number, workplace and monthly wage. These may vary from one apartment to another, yet these are the aspects of interest in what you are concerned, because this way they can decide if you are able to pay the rent.

In the case of Americans, you should know that they spend 20 up to 30 percent of their monthly wages for the rent. Of course, no landlord would accept you spend more than 30 percent on it as there are other costs you must pay for the furnished apartment and a higher percentage would be unacceptable. If you do not have a stable wage or income another person must guarantee for you and consign the lease so that he or she could cover the payment if you are not doing it. The contract for renting is a type of list for rights and duties involving both parts:you and the administrator. You must be very careful and read it before you sign it.

If they agree on your application form than you have the right to enter in possession of the furnished apartment for the agreed period of time. This lease or contract for renting fixes the obligations for both parts and the duration of the contract which is in between 6 months and a year. You and the landlord must agree to respect all the terms of the contract or the contract may be released. You should know that the landlord may ask for a damage account which renders the value of a month's rent and if you decide to bring a pet with you the value of the deposit may be higher.

After the contract is finished the administrator is sure to check the actual state of the apartment and may take a sum of money from the damage deposit if he considers that the apartment was not looked after appropriately. Of course, the situation of 'normal tear and wear' is encountered every time but the damages may be worse this being the cause for the necessity of a damage deposit.

All in all, no problems should appear if you stick to the terms of the contract and do not bring damages to the furnished apartment. You cannot leave the apartment before the deadline of the contract, as this is a main term of the contract. Be very careful to comply with the terms of that lease so that you could not be found responsible for any mistake.

Free Apartment Finder Services Make Finding Your Next Apartment Easy

London - 29th September, 2005 - You've seen the advertisements on apartment finder services or apartment locators, the specialist accommodation bookers for the serviced apartment market. You might think that it all sounds very expensive, whereas in fact, it is quite the opposite.

The Apartment Service, based in London, England, specializes in booking serviced apartments, corporate and interim housing for corporate and leisure clients worldwide, for periods from a day, week or month through to a year or longer.

In large cities such as London, New York and Sydney there are hundreds of apartment buildings spread out over a very large area. When there are so many properties the apartment hunter can become overwhelmed with the vast number of choices available. It's hard to even know where to start. Driving from one complex to the next will often result in frustration because the apartment is not what you're looking for, or the complex doesn't have any units available.

The great advantage of using the services of an apartment finder is that the company will have a database of apartments which shows availability. Therefore the apartment finder company will know which rentals are on the market. This way you don't waste time trying to track down apartments with availability.

The advantages are more spacious accommodation, usually including lounge or sitting area, kitchen or cooking facilities, quieter location, with increased privacy and security. As Charles McCrow, Managing Director of The Apartment Service, puts it: "The problem with hotels is that they are for sleeping in. The diplomat, especially with family, needs somewhere to sit and relax, make a snack or a meal, have a meeting or spread out the paperwork. Serviced apartments will always offer much better value-for-money compared with a hotel, if public areas are less important to the guest. It is upon this cost-saving, that this very model is based."

The same value extends across the board and broadly speaking equates to a 25% saving on rates in hotels of a comparable standard. Branded apartment accommodation usually targets the mid-market, short to medium stay clients. The accommodation you can expect is functional with achievable rates of around �65 per person per night with possible discounts for weekly or monthly stays in a one-bedroom apartment, although lower rates are possible in a studio. At the upper end of the market, the rates will approximately double.

Try using The Apartment Service the next time you decide to move to a new apartment and see for yourself how much time and effort you will save on your next move. It makes the whole apartment hunting experience easy and hassle free.

Methods for Renting a Furnished Apartment

If you are in need of an apartment for rental for a shorter period of time you should consider to apply for a furnished apartment. This way the whole process will be cheaper and you could save money for other urgent needs. There are many offers for furnished apartments so all you have to do is see them and decide upon the one which best suits you.

Main issues to be considered when renting a furnished apartment

At first you should decide on the precise location of the apartment so that it would be close to your workplace or educational institution. Moreover you should program your standards such as the price for rental, the space provided, the items to be furnished. The place to look for these furnished apartments is the Internet or the local newspapers which can provide also a description.In order to save some money consider using the free services of an apartment agent who will send you a list of the furnished apartments which meet your expectances.Use the telephone number provided by every announcement so as to arrange some appointments for visiting the selected locations and apartments. In addition, you should pay attention to all the details such as: parking, area markets and so on. Don't forget to read the contract very carefully before you sign it so that every term of it to suit you.

Utilities

Furthermore, the utility costs like: water, sewer, electricity TV cable, trash or gas, may be or not be included in your rent payment. You have to be aware of this aspect of your contract or ask what utilities are included. This aspect has to be included in your contract. What you do not see in it does not exist. The contract is a sort of binding document for you and the landlord. Ask a specialized person to look over it so as to prevent any illegal demands from the landlord. Before signing a contract which does not comprise the details regarding the utilities, ask the landlord for the estimated price for them to see if you can afford. The apartament's location may be a very expensive one and you can face the unpleasant situation of not being able to pay for the electricity bill.

For a long-termed contract it is advisable for you to rent an unfurnished apartment, while the furnished apartments are suitable only for short-term contracts. Make sure to decide upon the length of the contract before looking for a furnished or unfurnished apartment.

Protect Your Home or Apartment When You Go On Vacation

Going on a vacation is wonderful and you deserve it. Coming home to find that your home has been broken into will make all those good times be forgotten in an instant.

One of the times your home is most vulnerable is when it is left empty for an extended period of time such as when the occupants are on vacation or on extended business trips. Darkened windows, unretrieved mail or newspapers and closed windows in hotter weather all tell of your absence to a potential burglar.

The best protection for your house or apartment during your absence is to have a house sitter. A friend you trust staying at your house can take care of your pets and/or plants in addition to making sure the house is occupied. Of course, this scenario is not always an option. Here are some precautions that should be taken by the owner or inhabitants to take before leaving on their trip away from home.

1. Have a neighbor check on your apartment or house while you're away � turning on lights, radios or TVs and opening and closing curtains will give your apartment or house the appearance of someone home.

2. If you don't have a friend or neighbor to house sit or check your apartment while you're away � perhaps even if you do � you should keep not only lights but also a TV or radio on at all times unless you have a timer which is recommended. If you're like many others you have your TV on almost all the time you're home, not for viewing but just as background noise. It is the absence of the sound and that blueish light in the windows that announces you're not there. Using readily available timers you could also have lights, radios, and TV's going on and off at different times adding to the illusion to a potential thief that someone is home.

3. Make sure whoever is checking your apartment or house while you're away knows how to work any alarm system and who to call in case of a problem.

4. Unless you have a house sitter, stop your mail by notifying the post office and any newspapers or other items that are delivered to your home on a regular basis. Nothing broadcasts an empty apartment or house better than a stack of newspapers or an overflowing mailbox. Ask a nearby neighbor if they could pick up any packages that happens to be delivered any way while you're gone.

5. If you have a garden or plants on your balcony, make sure someone is watering the plants regularly or put the plants where they can't be seen. Plants slowly dying due to lack of water may announce your absence to the would be thief.

6. If you rent check your lease. Many landlords require that you notify them if your apartment is going to be left empty for any period of time so they can enter in case of emergency even if they can't reach you. Naturally if you've got a house sitter this isn't necessary.

7. If you are away from home in winter make arrangements to have your place shoveled and plowed. If you are away during the warmer months make arrangements for someone to mow your lawn if it looks like it needs some attention.

Of course, many of these recommendations are just common sense. With a little planning ahead and thinking on your part you can make sure there are no nasty surprises when you return from you vacation or business trip.

How to Make Your Apartment Safe

How to Make Your Apartment Safe

By Kyle Thomas Haley

There are special dangers involved with apartment living. This is because you live so close to many other people. Their actions can jeopardize your safety and so it's very important for you to be aware of what you must do to safeguard yourself, your family and your possessions.

Fire Safety . . .

Fire is perhaps the greatest danger in apartment buildings. With so many units joined together, it doesn't take long for fire to spread from one to another. The following guidelines are critical to your safety:

� Install smoke detectors in the kitchen, all bedrooms, the laundry area and hallways. You must test them every month and replace the batteries every 6 months. They won't do you any good if they aren't in working order.

� Keep fire extinguishers handy in the kitchen, laundry area and near your outside grill.

� Develop an escape plan. This plan should include two ways of exiting � in most cases, this will probably include the main door and either a window or door wall. If you live on a higher floor and don't have access to a fire escape, purchase a rope ladder to use for exiting from windows or a balcony. Practice your escape plan regularly so each member of your family knows exactly what to do in case of fire.

� Never use an elevator during a fire.

� Never park in front of fire hydrants or in fire lanes and make sure your guests don't either.

General Safety . . .

Fire isn't the only danger in an apartment building. You must also be aware of hazards that can exist no matter where you live and take precautions to prevent them.

� Install a carbon monoxide detector.

� Install screen guards or window stops and doorstops on your patio door to protect your children from falling.

� Keep your apartment and building number near the telephone so your family or babysitter can access it in case of an emergency. Remember that memories can fail during emergencies.

� Make certain your apartment number is clearly marked on your door.

� Be sure that each person in your family knows how to dial 911.

Protecting from Intruders . . .

There are many people coming and going in an apartment complex. Criminals count on this anonymity. That makes it very important to get to know the other tenants. When you do, not only are you better able to identify someone who doesn't belong, it also makes it more likely that tenants will look out for one another.

� Consider forming an "apartment watch". This is similar to a neighborhood watch but confined to your apartment complex. If a group of tenants is on the alert for suspicious behavior, they can prevent many problems from arising.

� Install quality deadbolt locks on your door and place a wooden rod or steel brace on sliding doors. One caution about deadbolt locks � don't purchase those that require a key. In an emergency, you won't have time to search for the key.

� Make sure your landlord has installed good lighting in all stairways, hallways, and common areas like the laundry room.

� Make sure that if your building has a common entry, the entry door locks so that only tenants can enter. Never open that door for strangers.

If you follow these guidelines, practice good common sense, and are alert to what's going on around you, your apartment will provide a safe home for you and your family.

Apartment Guide in Chicago

Rentersparadise.com will help you to get an apartment for rent in Chicago, the third largest city in the United States, without any hassle and mental stress.

Rentersparadise.com has a list of apartments with their reviews and rates from which you can select. You can get all information on apartments in Chicago. The portal provides this service without any charge.

To see the list of apartments in Chicago, click on 'Begin Apartment Search'. Fill the short information form and search criteria and click the submit button. You will find the list of apartments in Chicago, available.

You will find Sheridan Park Apartments, located close to Red Line EL in the uptown. Its apartment rental range is $400-$830. Its unit type is two bed plus one bath room. It has no facilities for cats and dogs. If you are looking for three-bed room type unit, there is 1642 W. Lunt/7009-15 N. Paulina. Its rent range is $400-$1300. It also, has no facility for pets.

Highlands Tudor Manor apartments, located in historic Jackson Park Highlands allows both pets, dogs and cats. But, it is for people of 55 years and older only. Its rent range is $429-$550. If you take it, one month rent will be free and you will get a $100 reward from rentersparadise.com.

If you want to take one bed and one bath room apartment near Loyola University in Edgewater neighborhood, you can select Lakelane Apartments. Its rent range is $450-$676 and it has no facilities for cats and dogs.

There are many more apartments for rent in Chicago with different types and amenities available at Rentersparadise.com. You have to select among them as per your requirements. Get an apartment through the portal, you will save time and energy.

However, before selecting an apartment for rent, check and verify the information on security, management, maintenance, facilities like transport, shopping, recreation and health services, parking, etc.

The site has also sponsored links with portals providing services on moving, renters insurance, car insurance, debt consolidation, health insurance, debt consolidation and online education.

7 essential guidelines for making small rooms appear larger

Developers are squeezing more out of their available land area for their new projects by building smaller apartment units. Demographics are also changing with smaller families.

So ,how do you make a small apartment look bigger than it is?

Here are 7 tricks of the trade

1. Using mirrors to cover the entire length of walls has a dramatic effect of making the room look so much bigger and spacious. Mirrors have the ability to create the illusion of space. Instead of seeing the wall your mind is tricked into believing the space of the room is twice as big.

2. In the living room, try to put low sideboards or cabinets instead of tall shelves or cabinets. Cabinets or sideboards with height lower than your study desk and dining table instantly makes your room look so much bigger and neater.

3. Another way of creating the impression of large spaces is to have light colour or white flooring . You should also use light colour or warm colours such as yellow or orange for your walls. Here is how you can use color to make a room look larger.

4. To extrapolate on the earlier point, floors of different areas such as living room and porch with different materials and purpose should have similar themed light colours to create a stronger visual impression of enlarged spaces.

5. If the space outside a particular wall consists of a balcony view or a garden view, consider knocking down part of the wall to construct a window. A window with a exterior beautiful view automatically makes an impact and makes the room feel so much bigger.

6. You can also opt for space saving furniture and appliances. A sofa bed serves the dual purpose of being a couch and a bed and thereby saving space for a bed. A washing machine with a dryer feature also makes it unnecessary to buy a dryer which would take up more space.

7. If you are short of space for sleeping you can exploit your living room for flexible space by erecting a folding screen or installing ceiling mounted curtain to create flexible space.

Travelling Serviced apartments are cheaper

The cost effectiveness of serviced apartments makes them an ideal second home for expatriates as well as business executives from overseas who require comfort to work and relax during short-term projects.

According to a recent survey carried out by Executive Roomspace, companies increasingly require accommodation for serviced apartments between 1 and 6 months.

Foreign banks and multinational companies are providing accommodation at different levels in the company hierarchy -- from trainees who are given shared accommodation to senior management who are provided with one to three bedroom apartments, which can also accommodate their families.

The advantages are more spacious accommodation, usually including lounge or sitting area, quieter location, with increased privacy and security, a running household equipped with amenities such as a full kitchen, washing machine, fridge, television, air conditioning, Internet and telephone connection.

"Serviced apartments work out cheaper than hotel suites. Incidental costs are lower too, as residents can get food and other services from outside," says Charles McCrow, Managing Director, Executive Roomspace.

Today, Executive Roomspace (ERS), a market leader in short term serviced apartments, ensures that business travellers can confidently book an apartment. Specialising in stays of 1-month plus where even greater savings are possible. ERS offer properties throughout Greater London, including, Canary Wharf, Clerkenwell, Fleet Street, Kingston, Marylebone, South Kensington, The City, Twickenham, Victoria and Wimbledon as well as throughout the Home Counties, the M4 Corridor to Swindon and Bristol beyond.

The serviced apartment market has emerged as a most cost-effective alternative to hotel accommodation and, at times the only option to consider. High in comfort, low in cost with complete consistency. Three C's that provide a good benchmark for anyone needing to stay, for whatever length of time, away from home.

For further press information, please contact Natalie Wakefield, Marketing Executive at Executive Roomspace, 01934 519 518 or e-mail: nataliew@apartment.co.uk

EXECUTIVE ROOMSPACE
5-6 FRANCIS GROVE
WIMBLEDON
SW19 4DT

Notes to Editors:

About Executive Roomspace: Since 1997 Executive Roomspace has been the first brand named apartment product amongst regular corporate housing bookers. Aimed at the medium budget with a minimum stay of a month, the ease and flexibility of booking has pushed apartment accommodation as the favoured spacious alternative to the standard hotel.

www.roomspace.com

About Apartment Service: The Apartment Service founded in 1981 as the first UK company to offer a global apartment reservations network for serviced accommodation. Now the largest serviced apartment booking company in Europe , with over seven hundred locations worldwide. For business or leisure.

For stays of a day, a week, a month or a year, serviced apartments offer a spacious, flexible and cost effective alternative to restrictive hotel rooms. With an average saving of 15 - 30% on an equivalent standard hotel. Stays in an apartment can be tailored to suit your location, budget and departure requirements. Although you will receive an extremely professional service, The Apartment Service endeavours to meet all personal requirements.

Home Security How to Defend Your Home When You Are Away

Is your home going to be empty for several days while you go on vacation? That's when your home or apartment is most vulnerable to break-ins.

Here are several specific things you can do to ensure your home stays safe even when you are away.

  • The best defense for your home is to have a house sitter. There's no getting around it. A house where someone is staying is almost always safer than a house that's empty. See if you can get a trusted friend or relative to stay at home while you are away.
  • Stop your mail delivery and newspaper delivery for the entire time you are away. An overflowing mailbox or piles of newspaper advertises that no one's home. Alternatively, get a neighbor to collect them regularly.
  • Similarly, if you keep a garden or have potted plants that are visible, get someone to come in regularly and maintain them. Wilted and dying plants are another signal that the house is uninhabited. At the very least, move the potted plants out of sight.
  • Put lights as well as TV / radio on timers. Put lights on timers in multiple rooms. Try to create a natural-looking sequence for the lights. Set the timer to turn on the living room lights at sunset. Later on, at your regular bedtime, set it to switch off the living room lights and turn on the bedroom lights at around the same time.
If you regularly turn on the TV at 8:00 pm and it remains switched on till 11:00 pm, set the timer accordingly. Quite often, even if the lights are on, the absence of the bluish glow from the TV can give away the fact that no one's really home.
  • Ask a neighbor to drop into your house regularly, if you don't have a house sitter. Windows being opened and closed, curtains being worked and so on are signs that someone is home.
  • If you live in a rented home or apartment, you may want to notify your landlord that you will be away. In fact, some lease agreements stipulate that you must inform them if you are going away. Some landlords like to keep an eye on an empty house, even if they don't enter it.
  • If you have an alarm system installed, make sure the house sitter knows how to operate it.
  • Leave your contact details with the house sitter and/or neighbor. Whoever is checking on the house should know who they should call if there is a problem.

Holiday Apartments Rome

Rome (the capital of Italy) is one of the most beautiful cities in the world and has some of the most breathtaking architecture in the whole of human history. It is also home to some of the finest art worldwide. Add to this the amount of history surrounding the city and it is no wonder that it is a city that is visited by many millions of tourists every year. Whilst many tourists merely stay in hotels, a great deal of them feel far more comfortable staying in apartments in Rome. This gives them the freedom to come and go as they wish, not being restrained to certain eating and cleaning times. Considering how cheap apartments in Rome are these days it is a wonder that more people don't choose that option. To find some of these great apartment offers, visit http://www.romerents.com for more information.
Vacation rentals in Rome are available all over the vast city so you can choose exactly whereabouts you wish to stay and for how much. Why not stay alongside the Tiber River with its spectacular views or maybe near the Pantheon, only a short distance from many of Rome's attractions. It is even possible to rent an apartment on Rome's most exclusive street, Via Giulia, a street which itself is seeped in Rome's history including San Eligio, a church believed to be designed by Raphael. For a more relaxed vacation in Rome, try renting an apartment in the Campo de Fiori district and taking your holiday at your own pace.
With so much to see and do in Rome, a rental apartment is the perfect way to see the city whether you are visiting for a day, for a week or even for a month. What better way to enjoy yourself than having your very own accommodation to come back to in the evening after a day visiting the Vatican and a night with the locals. Invite friends around and prepare a meal so you can recount the visit to the colosseum and what it must have been like for gladiators of old over bottles of local wine. It really is like having a home away from home for however long you need it which is likely to be months and even years if you wish to see all Rome has to offer.
Families will also find a great benefit of apartments in Rome as there is a lot less hassle than with hotels. No waiting around to check in because ten people are queuing before you. No 6 flights of stairs to climb to get to your room. No squeezing into a tiny room when there are 4 of you. No risk of being disturbed by the cleaners or the noisy occupants next door. Enjoy your very own little apartment, with its own bedrooms, bathroom, living room and it's very own kitchen to prepare healthy Italian food for the children. Create that fantastic family atmosphere around your very own dining area and discuss the adventures you had that day without the hassle of being herded into a dining room with hundreds of other guests.

In order to find some of the best quality and best priced
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Searching For an Apartment in New York

East coast living has been a dream of mine for a lifetime. However, the cost of living is steadily increasing and in order to afford an apartment on my own in New York City, I needed to find the cheapest way to find the perfect one from 650 miles away. As a young adult, moving costs are not easy to accommodate.
When beginning my search for an apartment, I used the help of the World Wide Web to find an effective website to help in my search process. Because of the living expenses, I wanted to find a service that could help me find the best place for the least amount of money. This included finding a website that didn't include a broker fee to add to my already soaring moving costs. The accessibility of a website with this feature was very effective for my needs.
As a new renter, I needed to seek out a resource that helped me to quickly and cost-effectively rent my apartment. In a city as large as New York, I needed a simple way to organize myself in finding a place. A website that made the search simple helped to make the hunt for a place less stressful. It was also helpful that new listings were sent directly to my email and all postings had photos, maps and even directions when I decided to take a look at the place for myself.
As a native Midwesterner, it was also helpful that detailed neighborhood information was given, seeing as I had no NYC experience within my decision-making process. This unfamiliarity discouraged the process because of my unawareness of the cost of living. A website that effectively described the value within the apartments listed helped me to organize what each place could give me compared to the others in surrounding areas. Variety is also important; a website that offered a range of types of living areas was more encouraging to me because the website had taken the time to present a range for their users.
The importance of direct correspondence when moving long-distance is vital. This website allowed me to get detailed, personal attention with answers to my questions about neighborhoods, how to deal with landlords, etc. The site effectively helped my difficult move much more of a pleasant experience. With their help, I found the best place I could from out of state and received answers to all the questions I had in order to feel that I had made the best decision with my long-distance move.

Two Can Live More Cheaply Than One Consider a Roommate

If living expenses are eating up your budget, one of the most popular solutions is to find one or more roommates to share them. Rent for a multiple-bedroom apartment is usually not significantly higher than that of a single bedroom or studio unit. So actually, with a roommate to share the expenses, you're able to live much more cheaply.

There are many places where you can find people who are also looking for roommates. Check the classified section of your newspaper and with acquaintances. Post a notice at your church, at work, or, if you're a college student, on a bulletin board at school. There are also several websites which focus on finding roommates and living accommodations.


Choose Your Roommate Wisely . . .

You must keep in mind that you'll be living closely with this person (or persons) so there are several things you should consider when choosing your roommate:

� Make sure that your schedules and interests will compliment each other. If you like a quiet life and your roommate loves to invite people in for impromptu parties, it's probably not a good mix.

� How you live is another issue that should be considered. If you're a neat freak and your prospective roommate is a slob, there will be problems.

� If you're a pet owner it's important to find someone who shares your love for animals.

� Be sure and specify whether you wish to room with a smoker or non-smoker.

� If you plan to share shopping and cooking responsibilities choose a person who likes the same types of foods you do.

These are just a few of the issues that must be resolved if you intend to live in harmony with other people. Take the time to get to know a little about the person with whom you intend to share a home. It will prevent a lot of difficulty later.

Agree On the Rules From the Start . . .

1. Choosing a location:

If you have already chosen a roommate, or roommates, and are looking for an apartment, be sure you only consider locations that are convenient for all of you.

2. All roommates should be included on the lease.

This will prevent anyone being left "holding the bag" if one of the roommates decides to make other living arrangements.

3. Decide how the bills will be divided.

How the rent, utilities, phone bills, etc., will be divided is extremely important. While heat, water and electricity are usually divided equally, other bills can be divided according to usage.

For example, if one roommate has a larger bedroom and a private bath, while the others share a communal bath and have smaller rooms, this should be taken into account when determining what percentage each pays for rent.

And, while the basic cost of the phone bill should be shared by all who use it, personal toll calls should be the responsibility of whoever made them.

If there are Internet and cable bills, you can hardly expect someone who doesn't use a computer at home to share the Internet charges.

Be sure and put all of these arrangements in writing so there is no question or dispute later.

It's a very good idea for each roommate to set up one of the utility accounts (electricity, gas, etc.) in his/her name.

4. Decide how housekeeping chores will be divided and put it in writing.

While this may seem like a lot to worry about, you and your roommates will get along better if everyone knows what's expected from the start. Take the time to iron these things out at the beginning to prevent later dissension and hard feelings ~ you'll have a much greater chance of living together happily and harmoniously if you do.

Monday, December 18, 2006

Creating Your Own Garden in Small Places

Anyone can have a garden, even those apartment dwellers living in the smallest apartments. If you have a balcony, all you need is a little imagination and patience, and a bit of a green thumb and you too can have a pocket garden worth bragging about.

The balcony is actually the most underused space in an apartment and it's precious space for wannabe gardener. No matter how small your balcony may be, it's adequate space to support a number of potted plants. But there should be some order in the way the planters are arranged, or the overall space could end up looking cluttered. One could also hang a few pots from the balcony roof and walls, but don't go overboard and make the balcony look like a tropical jungle.

Bigger balconies can also serve as a seating area - a perfect place to relax after a day at work. Just remember to use light furniture as moving it around can be a backbreaking task in bad weather.

Even if your apartment doesn't boast an extended balcony, there's nothing to worry about. When it comes to gardens, size doesn't really seem to matter and even the smallest square can support a mini-kitchen garden.

You can grow everything from tomatoes, cucumbers, and eggplant to oranges, all in pots. Admittedly, this is a bit more challenging than having just a few ferns and flowers. If you're not willing to work that hard for fresh fruit and vegetables, consider growing your own herb garden. It's the best option. Herbs can be grown in planters, needing just water and sunlight.

If you still feel that the balcony is too small, there's one more option. Create the illusion of open space. A crystal-clear sliding glass door between the room and balcony along with continuous flooring between the spaces can achieve the look of wider-open spaces without costing you a fortune.

Growing an apartment-friendly garden on your balcony isn't hard by any means. All it takes is a little bit of time. You'll be proud of yourself for the work that you've created and the beauty that's right outside your apartment - no matter how far up you are. From the second floor to the fifteenth and beyond - a beautiful garden could just be only a few steps from your door.

Things You Should Know Before You Sign an Apartment Lease

If you are contemplating a move to a new apartment, be sure you know your rights and obligations before you sign a lease.

Whether you live in Chicago, New York, Boston, San Francisco, or Peoria, Illinois, your perfect apartment is the one in the right neighborhood, near the right highways or train or bus lines for commuting, at the right rate, in a secure building.

There are probably other apartment features you have on your list. But, no matter what you are looking for in the way of housing, the right apartment nearly always comes with a lease.

When you think you've found the right apartment, you should protect yourself by reviewing the lease before you sign it and asking a few questions of your new landlord.

If your landlord does NOT ask you to sign an apartment lease, you should ask why. Moving into an apartment without a lease can cause problems, because your rights and obligations are not defined and, in some states, your landlord can throw you out of your apartment without notice.

If you have an apartment lease in hand and you are ready to sign, you should review these items before you put your signature on the dotted line.

Each state has different laws regarding apartment rentals and obligations. You can search online or call your State offices to find out more information about landlord and tenant rights and obligations for apartment rentals.

Don't sign up for more than your State requires if you can help it. If the landlord is using his own apartment lease form instead of a standard form, read it carefully and don't hesitate to ask for changes if you feel the terms are too restrictive.

While you may not be able to get changes for stipulations like pets, or things that impact fire insurance or fire laws, there are some things you CAN negotiate.

Here are a few other things to check on that dream apartment. Some of them may be in the lease and some may be services that are not outlined in the apartment lease you will sign.

In any case, you should know about these lease conditions upfront. If the terms and conditions of your apartment lease are not to your liking and there are serious concerns, you may have to rethink your dream apartment and keep looking.

Security � How much security, if any, does your landlord provide? If there is a parking garage, is there security for that garage, 24 hours a day?

Elevators � If your apartment has an elevator system, how often is it inspected? If there are problems with the elevator, is there a number YOU and the other tenants can call or should you call the super for the building? Is there a guaranteed turnaround time for a service visit or
might you be walking up six flights of stairs for a week or more?

Apartment Super � If your apartment building has a super, is he/she resident in the building or does the super live offsite? What days of the week and hours does he/she work, and how do you reach him/her? What services does he provide and what services are subcontracted to others, e.g. plumbing, electrical, security systems, etc.

Pets � Are you allowed to have pets in your building? If so, what kind? What happens if there are complaints about you or some other tenant regarding a barking dog, odors, etc.

Garbage and Incineration � What services and systems does your landlord provide for garbage or incineration? Are there garbage receptacle areas in the building, or do you throw your garbage down into an incinerator? What type of clean-up and sanitation is done on a regular basis to ensure that the garbage does not attract rats or vermin?

Apartment Security Deposit � Typically, a landlord will ask for payment upfront, equal to one or more months of rent to hold for any repairs he may have to make if you leave the apartment in disarray at the end of your lease. If you must make a security deposit, find out whether your
landlord is holding this in escrow in accordance with law, and when you can expect to get it back when you are ready to move.

Apartment Vacancy and Sublease � Can you sublet your apartment if you have to move out of your apartment for any reason? What happens if you vacate the apartment and continue to pay rent? Can you move back in or will the landlord seize the apartment and cancel the lease with
penalties?

Changes to the Apartment � Can you hang pictures on the walls, or change fixtures in your apartment?

You should also consider any specific requirements YOU have and add those to the list of questions you want to ask your landlord. For example, do you have a baby grand piano you
need to move into the apartment? If so, can you take out a window to hoist the piano in from the street, through the window frame? Do you raise ocelots? If so, find out if you can do that in your new apartment before you sign the lease.

Be sure you ask all of these questions and review the apartment lease before you make a decision on an apartment.

Do Pets and Apartments Mix

Do Pets and Apartments Mix?

by Kyle Thomas Haley

If you're a pet owner who is considering a move to an apartment there are certain things you must be keep in mind. First, whether or not your pet will be accepted by most landlords depends primarily on the type, size and personality of your pet.

Dogs:

If you own a large dog, apartment living is probably not for you. Not only will accepting landlords be hard to find, but your dog will not be happy in the confined space of an apartment. A large dog needs room to exercise and play, neither of which is usually available in an apartment setting.

If you plan to move to an apartment, make sure your dog is one that will adapt easily to this change in environment. Usually smaller, lap dogs are the best choice. However, even smaller dogs can cause problems.

If your dog barks or whines a lot you may well find yourself at odds with the landlord, as well as with other tenants. Many times your dog only causes a disturbance because it's lonely or bored. If you're gone during the day, you can sometimes alleviate these problems by hiring a pet walker to come in and give your dog attention and exercise.

You must also keep in mind that most apartment complexes have leash laws so you will have to accompany your dog each time it goes outside. Since most complexes don't have areas where it's safe for your dog to run free, this is as much a matter of your dog's safety as it the protection of other tenants.

Cats:

Cats are the pets of choice for apartments. Most are not as socially oriented as dogs and are quite happy left on their own. As long as your cat has a nice spot to curl up and take a nap, space isn't an issue. More than likely your pet is a house cat so frequent trips outside aren't required.

But you must realize that some landlords do not accept cats any more willingly than they do dogs. Some have a strict "no pets" rule. If that's the case, don't consider renting there. If your pet is discovered you may be evicted and/or fined.

Other Pets:

"Pocket pets" such as fish, birds, and reptiles usually don't pose a problem when it comes to renting. However, you should still check with your prospective landlord to make sure.

General Tips:

Landlords who do accept pets often require a pet deposit. This is intended to cover any damage your dog or cat does to the premises, as well as additional cleaning that may be necessary when you leave the apartment.

If you're searching for apartments that accept pets, there are many places to go for help. You'll find lots of websites and message boards dedicated to this subject. You can also enlist the help of a local realtor or relocation specialist who usually have lists of "pet-friendly" apartments. Just make sure you're clear on the policy regarding pets before you sign any rental agreement.

If you take into account your pet's needs, as well as those of your landlord, you'll be much more likely to find an apartment that meets your needs.

APARTMENT SAFETY WHEN YOU GO ON VACATION

WHEN YOU GO ON VACATION

� Remember, unless there is a Cop reading this over your shoulder, YOU ARE NOT SAFE! The police do a pretty good job of SOLVING crimes. They cannot PREVENT crimes. The your safety, the safety of your family, and the protection of your property is YOUR responsibility.

� One of the times your home is most vulnerable is when it is left empty for an extended period of time. Darkened windows, mail or newspapers collecting and closed windows in hotter weather all advertise your absence to a potential burglar.

� The best protection for your apartment during your absence is to have a house sitter. A friend you trust staying at your house can take care of your pets and/or plants in addition to making sure the house is inhabited.

� Have a neighbor check on your apartment while you're away -- turning on lights, radios or TVs and opening and closing curtains will give your apartment the appearance of someone home.

� If you don't have a friend or neighbor to housesit or check your apartment while you're away -- perhaps even if you do -- you should keep not only lights but a TV or radio on a timer. If you're like me and have your TV on almost all the time you're home [NOTE: I don't watch it, it's just background noise.], the absence of the sound and that glowing light in the windows announces that you're not there.

� Make sure whoever is checking your apartment while you're away knows how to work your alarm system and who to call in case of a problem.

� Unless you have a house sitter, stop your mail and any newspaper or other delivery. Nothing announces an empty apartment better than a stack of newspapers or an overflowing mailbox. Ask a nearby neighbor to pick up any packages delivered while you're gone.

� If you have a garden or plants on your balcony, make sure someone is watering the plants regularly or put the plants where they can't be seen. Plants slowly dying due to lack of water may announce your absence.

� Check your lease. Many landlords require that you notify them if your apartment is going to be left empty for any period of time (this is so they can enter in case of emergency even if they can't reach you). If you've got a house sitter this isn't necessary.

First Class Accommodation

Do you enjoy the luxuries of a first class hotel with the personal touches of a home?

Executive Roomspace (ERS) has a large collection of hand picked first class serviced apartments throughout the UK . Whether you are working away from home for an extended period or simply on a short city break, Executive Roomspace (ERS) serviced apartments offer a flexible and cost-effective alternative to hotel living.

Today, Executive Roomspace (ERS), a market leader in short term serviced apartments, ensures that business travellers can confidently book an apartment. Specialising in stays of a minimum 28 days where even greater savings are possible. ERS offer properties throughout Greater London, including, Canary Wharf, Clerkenwell, Fleet Street, Kingston, Marylebone, South Kensington, The City, Twickenham, Victoria and Wimbledon as well as throughout the Home Counties, the M4 Corridor to Swindon and Bristol beyond.

The key to the success of ERS has been that each enquiry is dealt with on an individual basis. All bookings are negotiated for clients to suit their specific requirements such as length of stay, budget and location.

Charles McCrow ERS Director comments: "Visiting a foreign country on business, or spending six months away from home, can be a daunting experience. More and more people are realising the benefits of serviced apartments especially in the long stay market. The added space and privacy along with the opportunity of making the apartments feel like home, is really becoming popular. "

The apartments are spacious, interior designed, well equipped and centrally located, providing not just a room, but a fully serviced private apartment � a place to work, space to relax, and a great place to entertain your guests and your family. With the personal touches of a hotel- luxury toiletries, towels, coffee and tea, welcome pack, on-site gym, restaurant and much more.
The serviced apartment market has emerged as a most cost-effective alternative to hotel accommodation and, at times the only option to consider. High in comfort, low in cost with complete consistency. Three C's that provide a good benchmark for anyone needing to stay, for whatever length of time, away from home.

For further press information, please contact Natalie Wakefield, Marketing Executive at Executive Roomspace, 01934 519 518 or e-mail: nataliew@apartment.co.uk

EXECUTIVE ROOMSPACE
5-6 FRANCIS GROVE
WIMBLEDON
SW19 4DT
Notes to Editors:

About Executive Roomspace: Since 1997 Executive Roomspace has been the first brand named apartment product amongst regular corporate housing bookers. Aimed at the medium budget with a minimum stay of a month, the ease and flexibility of booking has pushed apartment accommodation as the favoured spacious alternative to the standard hotel.
www.roomspace.com

About Apartment Service: The Apartment Service founded in 1981 as the first UK company to offer a global apartment reservations network for serviced accommodation. Now the largest serviced apartment booking company in Europe , with over seven hundred locations worldwide. For business or leisure.

For stays of a day, a week, a month or a year, serviced apartments offer a spacious, flexible and cost effective alternative to restrictive hotel rooms. With an average saving of 15 - 30% on an equivalent standard hotel. Stays in an apartment can be tailored to suit your location, budget and departure requirements. Although you will receive an extremely professional service, The Apartment Service endeavours to meet all personal requirements.