If you haven't already been to Prague yourself then you will almost certainly have friends that have been and if you are reading this article you are probably planning a trip there in near future.
There are plenty of other articles that will tell you where to visit, what to see, where to get cheap beer and how not to be ripped off by taxi drivers. This article is about the holiday letting market in Prague and how to get the most from it.
When booking a city break or vacation in Prague most people immediately consider hotels with a recognisable brand. This is fine and you will no doubt have a great time staying there - but at a price! If 3 couples are travelling together and staying in 3 hotel rooms you could typically pay up to $600 plus taxes for the group - PER NIGHT! The same quality of accommodation in a Prague holiday apartment will normally cost $120 per night. Just think how much more beer, or wooden toys or boat trips down the Vltava you can buy with that!
Where to Stay?
For obvious reasons many people are attracted to the Old Town Square or the immediate vicinity to the Charles Bridge. If you are thinking about this then consider the following:
Stag and Hen parties congregate in these areas and can be very noisy, particularly late at night. Czechs congregate here for key sporting events normally shown on Huge TV screens - check you dates carefully. Pickpockets and street prostitutes frequent these areas. Prague city centre is very small and most places are either within walking distance or are served by excellent public transport links (metro and trams). Hotels and Apartments are generally more expensive in these areas. There are many other areas of Prague that are quieter, cheaper and well connected to the rest of the city. One of the most popular areas in my experience is Vinohrady (the Royal Vineyard). The architecture is fantastic with a real café society. It is a 10-15 minute walk away from Wenceslas Square and well served by public transport.
Two outstanding new developments have recently been built in Vinohrady and there are many holiday apartments available. These are the Zvonarka and Korunni Dvur developments. The apartments are generally furnished to a 4 star standard with swimming pools and fitness facilities available either for free or a small charge. These are well worth considering over and above a small, drafty, noisy Old Town apartment.
Other pitfalls
There are thousands of apartments available for short term holiday and vacation rental. But choose your apartment carefully!
Following entry to the Czech Republic there has been a great deal of investment into this market from outside of the Czech Republic. It is easier than ever before to buy and mortgages have become available to non-Czech nationals for the first time - and at reasonable rates. These are normally furnished to a high standard and in good, safe locations and add to the stock of quality Czech owned apartments.
There are also a large number of 'protected rent' apartments that are sublet illegally. These are much older and the 'owners' spend much less on furnishings and maintenance because they are letting the flats illegally. Protected rents were intended to provide affordable accommodation to Czechs during the communist period and in the future these are expected to be phased out
.
But how can you tell what the apartment will really be like from a few thumbnail pictures?
The best way is use a reputable website such as praguerental.com to choose your property. These apartments are all vetted and are in well furnished properties in safe, central locations. You can reserve the apartment with a small deposit and be sure of local English speaking support on arrival in Prague.
Holiday Rental Checklist
Know the TOTAL price of the booking at the time of booking an insist on email confirmation Agree Check in and Check out times in advance. You will normally be asked to check out earlier than a hotel so that the apartment can be cleaned in advance of the next guests arriving. It is always worth asking for a late check out. Most owners will agree to this if they have no guests arriving that day. Make sure you discuss this in advance though as the cleaner will need to be notified.
Extras. Normally airport transfer can be added to the cost of the booking for reasonable rates. Owners prefer to know exactly where you are once you arrive rather than have you show up on the door step at a random time somewhere near to when you said you show up. Taking advantage of airport transfers will normally save you money and get you to your apartment faster. Ask about security arrangements.
http://www.articletrader.com/travel/vacations/holiday-apartments-in-prague-city-centre-top-tips.html
Monday, March 19, 2007
How to Use the Internet to Help Your Apartment or House Hunting
So you are looking for an apartment to rent or a house to purchase. One of the most important steps is researching the neighborhood to decide if you really like to live in that area. The best way to do this is driving around that area to see if you really like that neighborhood. You should pay attention to traffic, available stores, available transportation, noise level etc. Also, you should try visiting the neighborhood during different times of the day.
Do you know you can get help from the Internet for your apartment or house hunting?
You can view interactive maps on the Internet. The best tools I've seen so far are Google Maps and MSN Virtual Earth With these online tools, you type in the address of the place you are interested in and a map centered at that address will show up. You can zoom in, zoom out and drag around the map to see what other streets are close and how close this place is to the highway, etc.
You can view satellite images on the Internet. This new service is available at Google Maps and MSN Virtual Earth. After you type in an address, you can choose to view a satellite image of that place. Just like maps, you can zoom to different levels and move around using your mouse. This might give you a more direct feeling on what this neighborhood look like than looking at the map alone.
You can find out what business/services are available around a place on the Internet. With Google Maps, MSN Virtual Earth and Yahoo! Maps , after you get a map or satellite image of an address, you can do a local search in that neighborhood. For example, you can search for "Pizza" and all nearby pizza restaurants will show up on the map. This way you can get a feeling if it'd be convenient for dining, shopping or entertainment in that area.
You can get driving directions on the Internet. Google Maps, Yahoo! Maps and other online map sites provide driving direction services. You type in the starting and destination addresses and they will show you a detailed driving direction with map, total mileage and estimated driving time. This way you can estimate how easy would be for you to drive to other places (such as to work or school) from that neighborhood.
Although this Internet tools are pretty cool, it's still important to go check out the neighborhood in person by yourself. Happy hunting!
http://www.articletrader.com/finance/real-estate/how-to-use-the-internet-to-help-your-apartment-or-house-hunting.html
Do you know you can get help from the Internet for your apartment or house hunting?
You can view interactive maps on the Internet. The best tools I've seen so far are Google Maps and MSN Virtual Earth With these online tools, you type in the address of the place you are interested in and a map centered at that address will show up. You can zoom in, zoom out and drag around the map to see what other streets are close and how close this place is to the highway, etc.
You can view satellite images on the Internet. This new service is available at Google Maps and MSN Virtual Earth. After you type in an address, you can choose to view a satellite image of that place. Just like maps, you can zoom to different levels and move around using your mouse. This might give you a more direct feeling on what this neighborhood look like than looking at the map alone.
You can find out what business/services are available around a place on the Internet. With Google Maps, MSN Virtual Earth and Yahoo! Maps , after you get a map or satellite image of an address, you can do a local search in that neighborhood. For example, you can search for "Pizza" and all nearby pizza restaurants will show up on the map. This way you can get a feeling if it'd be convenient for dining, shopping or entertainment in that area.
You can get driving directions on the Internet. Google Maps, Yahoo! Maps and other online map sites provide driving direction services. You type in the starting and destination addresses and they will show you a detailed driving direction with map, total mileage and estimated driving time. This way you can estimate how easy would be for you to drive to other places (such as to work or school) from that neighborhood.
Although this Internet tools are pretty cool, it's still important to go check out the neighborhood in person by yourself. Happy hunting!
http://www.articletrader.com/finance/real-estate/how-to-use-the-internet-to-help-your-apartment-or-house-hunting.html
Apartment Financing Explained
So you’re interested in entering the world of property management? Have you thought about how you’re going to get into this potentially lucrative market? Let’s face it; unless you’ve just inherited a large sum of money or are otherwise independently wealthy you’re going to have to borrow. This is where apartment financing comes in.
Before you go down to the local bank or investment company, it might be a good idea to ask yourself how long you expect to own the apartment building or complex. Is this a long-term investment? The answer to this question can significantly impact the type apartment financing you should get.
If you are planning on owning the property for a couple of years or less, most experts agree that an adjustable rate mortgage (ARM) will be your best method of apartment financing. Like the name suggests, an ARM is a loan will an interest rate that may change with time in accordance with an index. ARMs will usually offer a better initial interest rate than other loans in order to offset the risk of future interest rate fluctuations. Moreover, the mortgage holder is also protected by a maximum interest rate, or ceiling, that may be reset every year
Individuals planning to stay in the property management business for the long term may want to look into a fixed rate mortgage. A fixed rate loan will guarantee the same interest rate over the life of the mortgage.
If interest rates are historically low at the time you receive the loan, this type of loan will lock you in at the best possible rate. On the other hand, if interest rates are historically high at the time of the loan, you could be stuck paying higher interest than you would have with another method of apartment financing.
Another important question you may want to think about before seeking an apartment financing source is the estimated cost of the property. This may seem like a fairly obvious question to consider when looking for a loan, but far too many first-time investors just take the interest rates they’re given without question. If the property you’re interested in is selling for over $500,000, a direct lending source or investment company can give you a better interest rate than most banks or credit unions. However, if you’re looking at a smaller apartment building selling for under 500k you may want to see what your local bank can offer you.
With both banks and other lending institutions eager to provide apartment financing, new options have emerged in recent years. Generally smaller banks and other lending sources like direct lenders have a greater degree of flexibility in their loan-offering lineup. In an effort to attract more borrowers, many of these lenders are now offering either non-recourse or partial-recourse loans.
The traditional recourse loan offered by most institutions meant that the lender could have claim on the personal or corporate assets in the event of the default of the mortgage holder. A non-recourse loan on the other hand means the lender cannot hold you personally liable if you fail to repay the debt as promised. The only recourse of the lender is to take the property you’ve pledged as security for your loan, but he cannot claim any other assets or money from you if you default.
If you plan to build the apartment building instead of buying it, some lenders may offer you a partial recourse construction loan. This means that until work is finished on the project, the borrower is responsible for the entire amount of the construction loan. However, as soon as the project is ready for occupancy and the apartment building has some value for the lender to seize, the borrower is responsible for only 50% or less of the value of the construction loan in the event of a default.
Whatever method you choose to provide apartment financing, it is important to make sure you understand all the details. Choose a lender that has both the experience and desire to sit down with you and take the time to answer your questions clearly. The right lender will go a long way in helping you find success in the exciting world of property investing and management.
http://www.articletrader.com/finance/mortgage/apartment-financing-explained.html
Before you go down to the local bank or investment company, it might be a good idea to ask yourself how long you expect to own the apartment building or complex. Is this a long-term investment? The answer to this question can significantly impact the type apartment financing you should get.
If you are planning on owning the property for a couple of years or less, most experts agree that an adjustable rate mortgage (ARM) will be your best method of apartment financing. Like the name suggests, an ARM is a loan will an interest rate that may change with time in accordance with an index. ARMs will usually offer a better initial interest rate than other loans in order to offset the risk of future interest rate fluctuations. Moreover, the mortgage holder is also protected by a maximum interest rate, or ceiling, that may be reset every year
Individuals planning to stay in the property management business for the long term may want to look into a fixed rate mortgage. A fixed rate loan will guarantee the same interest rate over the life of the mortgage.
If interest rates are historically low at the time you receive the loan, this type of loan will lock you in at the best possible rate. On the other hand, if interest rates are historically high at the time of the loan, you could be stuck paying higher interest than you would have with another method of apartment financing.
Another important question you may want to think about before seeking an apartment financing source is the estimated cost of the property. This may seem like a fairly obvious question to consider when looking for a loan, but far too many first-time investors just take the interest rates they’re given without question. If the property you’re interested in is selling for over $500,000, a direct lending source or investment company can give you a better interest rate than most banks or credit unions. However, if you’re looking at a smaller apartment building selling for under 500k you may want to see what your local bank can offer you.
With both banks and other lending institutions eager to provide apartment financing, new options have emerged in recent years. Generally smaller banks and other lending sources like direct lenders have a greater degree of flexibility in their loan-offering lineup. In an effort to attract more borrowers, many of these lenders are now offering either non-recourse or partial-recourse loans.
The traditional recourse loan offered by most institutions meant that the lender could have claim on the personal or corporate assets in the event of the default of the mortgage holder. A non-recourse loan on the other hand means the lender cannot hold you personally liable if you fail to repay the debt as promised. The only recourse of the lender is to take the property you’ve pledged as security for your loan, but he cannot claim any other assets or money from you if you default.
If you plan to build the apartment building instead of buying it, some lenders may offer you a partial recourse construction loan. This means that until work is finished on the project, the borrower is responsible for the entire amount of the construction loan. However, as soon as the project is ready for occupancy and the apartment building has some value for the lender to seize, the borrower is responsible for only 50% or less of the value of the construction loan in the event of a default.
Whatever method you choose to provide apartment financing, it is important to make sure you understand all the details. Choose a lender that has both the experience and desire to sit down with you and take the time to answer your questions clearly. The right lender will go a long way in helping you find success in the exciting world of property investing and management.
http://www.articletrader.com/finance/mortgage/apartment-financing-explained.html
Apartment Inspection Checklist
You have found an apartment you like and you are eager to move in this lovely place. Hold on! Before you sign the lease with the landlord, some inspection is necessary and it might save you a lot of trouble. If you have already signed the lease, it will still be helpful to carefully inspect the apartment if you haven't done it yet. In case you find any problem, you should let the landlord know and get the problems fixed.
Below is a checklist for apartment inspection.
1. Check the entrance: Does the door seal properly? Does the lock work?
2. Check the floors: Any stain or stuff on hardwood floor? Are the carpets clean?
3. Check the ceilings and walls: Any dents, cracks or holes? Is the wallpaper in good condition? Paint on the wall in good shape?
4. Check electricity and lights: All lights working? Electrical outlets functioning? Air conditioner working well? Ceiling fan working well? Phone jack in each room? Is there a cable TV connection?
5. Check the kitchen: faucets leaking? Water pressure good? All appliances working and clean? Refrigerator looking good and not making too much noise? Dishwasher working fine? Gas/electric stove working fine? Microwave functioning?
6. Check the bathroom: Faucets leaking? Hot water from the shower? Toilet working fine?
Water pressure good?
7. Check safety: Windows in good condition and safe? Intercom working? Locks on all doors working? Smoke and carbon monoxide detectors functioning? Lead hazards?
If you have found problems with the apartment, write them down and show it to the landlord (keep a copy for yourself). Make sure the problems get fixed before you move in.
http://www.articletrader.com/home-and-family/apartment-inspection-checklist.html
Below is a checklist for apartment inspection.
1. Check the entrance: Does the door seal properly? Does the lock work?
2. Check the floors: Any stain or stuff on hardwood floor? Are the carpets clean?
3. Check the ceilings and walls: Any dents, cracks or holes? Is the wallpaper in good condition? Paint on the wall in good shape?
4. Check electricity and lights: All lights working? Electrical outlets functioning? Air conditioner working well? Ceiling fan working well? Phone jack in each room? Is there a cable TV connection?
5. Check the kitchen: faucets leaking? Water pressure good? All appliances working and clean? Refrigerator looking good and not making too much noise? Dishwasher working fine? Gas/electric stove working fine? Microwave functioning?
6. Check the bathroom: Faucets leaking? Hot water from the shower? Toilet working fine?
Water pressure good?
7. Check safety: Windows in good condition and safe? Intercom working? Locks on all doors working? Smoke and carbon monoxide detectors functioning? Lead hazards?
If you have found problems with the apartment, write them down and show it to the landlord (keep a copy for yourself). Make sure the problems get fixed before you move in.
http://www.articletrader.com/home-and-family/apartment-inspection-checklist.html
Apartment Loan 101
So you’re interested in going into business as a property manager? Have you given any thought yet to you’ll enter this potentially profitable market? Reality check-unless you’ve just inherited a large sum of money from a relative or are otherwise independently wealthy you’re going to find someone to borrow from. This is where an apartment loan comes in.
Before you visit the local bank or other lending institution, it may be wise to ask yourself how long you plan to own the apartment building or complex. Are you investing for the long-term? Answering this question will significantly influence the type apartment loan you should get.
If you are planning to own the property for two years or less, most experts agree that an apartment loan with an adjustable rate mortgage (ARM) will be your best bet. Like the name suggests, an ARM is a loan will an interest rate that may change with time in accordance with various factors. ARM apartment loans usually offer a better initial interest rate than other loans to offset the risk of future interest rate changes. An interest rate ceiling that may be reset annually also protects the mortgage holder.
If you plan to stay in the property management business for the long-term, you may want to look at getting a fixed rate apartment loan. A fixed rate loan guarantees the same interest rate over the life of the mortgage.
Supposing interest rates are historically low at the time you secure the apartment loan, this type of loan will lock you in at the best rate possible. On the other hand however, if interest rates are historically high at the time of the loan, you might be stuck paying interest at a higher rate than you would have with another type of apartment loan.
Another important question to answer before seeking an apartment loan source is the approximate cost of the property. This may seem like a no-brainer when looking for an apartment loan, but too many first-time investors just take the interest rates they’re given without question. If the apartment building you’re interested in is selling for over $500,000, a direct lending source or investment company can usually give you a better interest rate than most banks or credit unions. However, if you’re looking at a smaller apartment building selling for less than $500,000, you may want to check interest rates at the local bank.
With banks and other lending institutions anxious to provide you with an apartment loan, new loan options have emerged in recent years. Generally speaking, smaller banks and other lending sources like direct lenders have a greater degree of flexibility in what they can offer borrowers. In order to attract larger numbers of borrowers, many lenders now offer non-recourse.
A traditional recourse loan means that the lender has claim on personal or corporate assets in the event of a default by the borrower. On the other hand, a non-recourse apartment loan means the lender cannot hold you personally liable if you fail to repay the debt as promised. The only recourse for compensation to the lender is to take the property you’ve pledged as security for your loan, but he cannot claim any other assets or money from you if you default.
Whichever apartment loan option you decide on, it’s important to be certain you understand the details. It’s vitally important that you choose a lender that has both the experience and inclination to take the time to sit down with you and answer your questions clearly. Getting your apartment loan from a source you can trust will go a long way in helping you find success and enjoyment in the exciting world of property investing and management.
http://www.articletrader.com/finance/mortgage/apartment-loan-101.html
Before you visit the local bank or other lending institution, it may be wise to ask yourself how long you plan to own the apartment building or complex. Are you investing for the long-term? Answering this question will significantly influence the type apartment loan you should get.
If you are planning to own the property for two years or less, most experts agree that an apartment loan with an adjustable rate mortgage (ARM) will be your best bet. Like the name suggests, an ARM is a loan will an interest rate that may change with time in accordance with various factors. ARM apartment loans usually offer a better initial interest rate than other loans to offset the risk of future interest rate changes. An interest rate ceiling that may be reset annually also protects the mortgage holder.
If you plan to stay in the property management business for the long-term, you may want to look at getting a fixed rate apartment loan. A fixed rate loan guarantees the same interest rate over the life of the mortgage.
Supposing interest rates are historically low at the time you secure the apartment loan, this type of loan will lock you in at the best rate possible. On the other hand however, if interest rates are historically high at the time of the loan, you might be stuck paying interest at a higher rate than you would have with another type of apartment loan.
Another important question to answer before seeking an apartment loan source is the approximate cost of the property. This may seem like a no-brainer when looking for an apartment loan, but too many first-time investors just take the interest rates they’re given without question. If the apartment building you’re interested in is selling for over $500,000, a direct lending source or investment company can usually give you a better interest rate than most banks or credit unions. However, if you’re looking at a smaller apartment building selling for less than $500,000, you may want to check interest rates at the local bank.
With banks and other lending institutions anxious to provide you with an apartment loan, new loan options have emerged in recent years. Generally speaking, smaller banks and other lending sources like direct lenders have a greater degree of flexibility in what they can offer borrowers. In order to attract larger numbers of borrowers, many lenders now offer non-recourse.
A traditional recourse loan means that the lender has claim on personal or corporate assets in the event of a default by the borrower. On the other hand, a non-recourse apartment loan means the lender cannot hold you personally liable if you fail to repay the debt as promised. The only recourse for compensation to the lender is to take the property you’ve pledged as security for your loan, but he cannot claim any other assets or money from you if you default.
Whichever apartment loan option you decide on, it’s important to be certain you understand the details. It’s vitally important that you choose a lender that has both the experience and inclination to take the time to sit down with you and answer your questions clearly. Getting your apartment loan from a source you can trust will go a long way in helping you find success and enjoyment in the exciting world of property investing and management.
http://www.articletrader.com/finance/mortgage/apartment-loan-101.html
Top 6 Ways to Hear About Apartment Openings
There are many ways to go about finding an apartment: look online, use brokers, check newspapers, and more. Read about the top six methods and resources that may aid you in finding an apartment.
1) Online Apartment Listings
Web sites are a valuable resource, because they are frequently updated, and allow for longer postings, sometimes with photographs. Craigslist.org, which is one of the most visited sites, is an excellent resource. Be skeptical of certain types of listings. Also, Craigslist doesn't cover every community, and in some communities, the listings are paltry. But don't despair. There are many more Web sites with apartment listings.
2) Newspapers
Still a preferred method by many landlords--especially those who want to avoid the techno jungle of the world wide web--classified ads in newspapers are still worth checking out. Also, considering the popularity of Craigslist, competition may be less fierce. To brush up on apartment jargon, check out this dictionary of apartment acronyms and abbreviations.
3) Apartment Brokers
In some locales, brokers are unnecessary, but in large cities, brokers control the market and may be the best way to achieve your goal of finding an apartment.
4) Flyers Posted at Universities or College Residential Offices
Students can contact their residential office for openings, and everyone can make use of fliers posted on the campus bulletin boards. These apartments tend also to be priced at a rate that is affordable to students.
5) Contacting Property Managers
If you are interested in a particular complex or building, inquire directly with the property manager or rental office about available units.
6) Word-of-mouth
Word-of-mouth is one of the best ways to secure any goal in life, because oftentimes the relayed information is unknown to many other people. The drawback, of course, is you have to hope that it reaches you! Maximize your chances of hearing about some choice openings by telling everyone you know that you're looking for an apartment.
http://apartments.about.com/od/apartmenthunting/tp/finding_apt_way.htm
1) Online Apartment Listings
Web sites are a valuable resource, because they are frequently updated, and allow for longer postings, sometimes with photographs. Craigslist.org, which is one of the most visited sites, is an excellent resource. Be skeptical of certain types of listings. Also, Craigslist doesn't cover every community, and in some communities, the listings are paltry. But don't despair. There are many more Web sites with apartment listings.
2) Newspapers
Still a preferred method by many landlords--especially those who want to avoid the techno jungle of the world wide web--classified ads in newspapers are still worth checking out. Also, considering the popularity of Craigslist, competition may be less fierce. To brush up on apartment jargon, check out this dictionary of apartment acronyms and abbreviations.
3) Apartment Brokers
In some locales, brokers are unnecessary, but in large cities, brokers control the market and may be the best way to achieve your goal of finding an apartment.
4) Flyers Posted at Universities or College Residential Offices
Students can contact their residential office for openings, and everyone can make use of fliers posted on the campus bulletin boards. These apartments tend also to be priced at a rate that is affordable to students.
5) Contacting Property Managers
If you are interested in a particular complex or building, inquire directly with the property manager or rental office about available units.
6) Word-of-mouth
Word-of-mouth is one of the best ways to secure any goal in life, because oftentimes the relayed information is unknown to many other people. The drawback, of course, is you have to hope that it reaches you! Maximize your chances of hearing about some choice openings by telling everyone you know that you're looking for an apartment.
http://apartments.about.com/od/apartmenthunting/tp/finding_apt_way.htm
Top 9 Home Organization Suggestions for Small Apartments
Home organization is essential when you live in cramp quarters. Without it, stuff piles up and become a source of headaches. No one wants that, right? Read on for my top home organization suggestions.
1) Wall Shelves
The key to home organization in a small space is using your vertical space. Wall shelves allow you to use all of your walls, from the floor to the ceiling, as storage space. Keep books, DVDs and CDs on the shelves, along with framed photographs and mementos. Wall shelves are also great for displaying any of your collections, whether it's sewing machines, dolls or baseballs.
2) Shoe Organizer
Shoes have a way of separating from their mate and piling up on each other into a giant mess. They become eyesores and take up valuable real estate in the closet. The best way to keep them is in a shoe organizer designed to hang over the door. Not much else can hang there, and it will clear up the floor of your closet for other items.
3) Decorative Storage Trunk
A chest is perfect for storing large items that are rarely used, and because of its size, it's also great for placing items on top of it. It can be used as a coffee table, placed at the foot of your bed and used as a bench or against the wall with an attractive cloth over it and books, vases of flowers or plants on top of it.
Buy Direct
4) Storage Ottomans
The key to home organization in small spaces is to have multi-functional furniture. And it's very easy to find ottomans with more than one use. Ottomans can be used to prop your feet up or act as seating during parties. Many attractive ones have lids that come off to reveal a hollow inside for storing stuff. Since the storage space is easy to access, keep items that you regularly use, such as the TV programming guide, books that you're reading or snack food.
5) Under-the-bed Storage
Clear plastic storage bins that are designed specifically for under your bed are essential for small spaces. They're perfect for storing items that you want out of sight and don't use regularly, such as extra bedding, seasonal clothing, and hardware tools.
6) TV Stand with Shelves or Cabinets
In the modern world, pretty much everyone owns a TV. Like the bed, it's an essential part of one's home. Since it will take up your limited space, use this opportunity to buy a TV stand that has shelves not just for your VCR or DVD player but storage to hold DVDs, book, magazines or any other miscellany.
7) Stackable Plastic Drawers
Look for storage that is customizable, such as stackable plastic drawers. That way, if you only have space for two drawers, you won't have to struggle with an ensemble that is too big. Plastic drawers are inexpensive and great for organizing the closet space beneath your hanging clothing. In them, you can store folded clothing, athletic equipment, iron, and laundry supplies
.
8) Hooks
Like wall shelves, hooks turn empty walls into storage receptacles. They allow you to keep regularly used items accessible. Use them to keep coats, scarves, umbrellas and bags by the entrance way. Try hanging a container from one and store your cell phone, keys and ID pass.
9) Bed Frame With Built-in Drawers
If you're short on closet space and have little room for a chest of drawers, one reader suggested a bed frame with drawers that are underneath the mattress. They're easier to access than under-bed storage. But make sure to find one which has drawers that slide out easily.
1) Wall Shelves
The key to home organization in a small space is using your vertical space. Wall shelves allow you to use all of your walls, from the floor to the ceiling, as storage space. Keep books, DVDs and CDs on the shelves, along with framed photographs and mementos. Wall shelves are also great for displaying any of your collections, whether it's sewing machines, dolls or baseballs.
2) Shoe Organizer
Shoes have a way of separating from their mate and piling up on each other into a giant mess. They become eyesores and take up valuable real estate in the closet. The best way to keep them is in a shoe organizer designed to hang over the door. Not much else can hang there, and it will clear up the floor of your closet for other items.
3) Decorative Storage Trunk
A chest is perfect for storing large items that are rarely used, and because of its size, it's also great for placing items on top of it. It can be used as a coffee table, placed at the foot of your bed and used as a bench or against the wall with an attractive cloth over it and books, vases of flowers or plants on top of it.
Buy Direct
4) Storage Ottomans
The key to home organization in small spaces is to have multi-functional furniture. And it's very easy to find ottomans with more than one use. Ottomans can be used to prop your feet up or act as seating during parties. Many attractive ones have lids that come off to reveal a hollow inside for storing stuff. Since the storage space is easy to access, keep items that you regularly use, such as the TV programming guide, books that you're reading or snack food.
5) Under-the-bed Storage
Clear plastic storage bins that are designed specifically for under your bed are essential for small spaces. They're perfect for storing items that you want out of sight and don't use regularly, such as extra bedding, seasonal clothing, and hardware tools.
6) TV Stand with Shelves or Cabinets
In the modern world, pretty much everyone owns a TV. Like the bed, it's an essential part of one's home. Since it will take up your limited space, use this opportunity to buy a TV stand that has shelves not just for your VCR or DVD player but storage to hold DVDs, book, magazines or any other miscellany.
7) Stackable Plastic Drawers
Look for storage that is customizable, such as stackable plastic drawers. That way, if you only have space for two drawers, you won't have to struggle with an ensemble that is too big. Plastic drawers are inexpensive and great for organizing the closet space beneath your hanging clothing. In them, you can store folded clothing, athletic equipment, iron, and laundry supplies
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8) Hooks
Like wall shelves, hooks turn empty walls into storage receptacles. They allow you to keep regularly used items accessible. Use them to keep coats, scarves, umbrellas and bags by the entrance way. Try hanging a container from one and store your cell phone, keys and ID pass.
9) Bed Frame With Built-in Drawers
If you're short on closet space and have little room for a chest of drawers, one reader suggested a bed frame with drawers that are underneath the mattress. They're easier to access than under-bed storage. But make sure to find one which has drawers that slide out easily.
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