Four Seasons Apartment Homes

Improve Your VIP Experience: Flexible Ways to Pay Rent and Build Credit at Four Seasons Apartment Homes

Wed, 15 Apr 2026 23:48:33 GMT

At Four Seasons Apartments , we are committed to providing our VIPs with the best tools to manage their apartment homes effortlessly. We want to highlight the various ways you can handle your monthly rent, including some exciting benefits that help you build your financial future just by living with us.

1. The AppFolio Resident Portal App

The easiest way to manage your living experience is through the AppFolio app. It is a one-stop shop for your most frequent needs:

Convenient Payments: Set up one-time or automatic payments using a bank account (e-check), credit card, or debit card.
Split Payments with Flex: We have integrated Flex directly into your AppFolio app. This service allows you to split your rent into two payments throughout the month. Flex pays your rent to us in full and on time, while you pay them back on a schedule that fits your cash flow.
Full Transparency: View your current balance, previous statements, and full payment history anytime.

2. Build Your Credit for Free with Pinata

Your consistent rent payments should work for you. We are proud to offer Free Positive Rent Payment Reporting to major credit bureaus through our partner, Pinata.

How it works: You will receive an email invitation from Pinata to sign up for this service. Once you are enrolled, your on-time payments are reported to the credit bureaus.
The Benefit: This helps you build your credit score over time without any extra cost. It is our way of rewarding your reliability and helping you reach your long-term financial goals. (Please note: we do not utilize any resident reward or marketplace features through Pinata; this service is strictly for your credit reporting benefit.)

3. More Ways the App Helps You

Beyond payments, the AppFolio app remains your primary tool for staying connected with our Paramount community. You can:

Submit Maintenance Requests: Easily upload photos and descriptions of any needed repairs.
Manage Renter's Insurance: Access your policy or update your provider details.
Stay Informed: Contact the office via text or phone, update your contact preferences, and access your lease documents.

At Four Seasons Apartments , we treat every resident like a VIP. Whether you are looking for more flexibility with Flex or looking to boost your credit score through Pinata, we are here to support your lifestyle.

New Year, New Home!

Fri, 09 Jan 2026 23:50:47 GMT

New Year, New Home! Visit Our January Open Houses at Four Seasons Apartment Homes

A new year is the p erfect time for a fresh start — and there’s no better place to begin your next chapter than Four Seasons Apartment Homes in Paramount. We’re excited to invite you to our “New Year, New Home!” Open Houses, happening every weekend in January during regular office hours.

Come tour our award-winning community, explore our amenities, and see firsthand why residents love calling Four Seasons home.

An Award-Winning Community You’ll Be Proud to Call Home

Four Seasons Apartment Homes is recognized for excellence in both appearance and resident satisfaction. Our community is a proud Pride of Paramount Award winner, honored for its beautiful, well-maintained grounds and overall curb appeal. We’ve also earned the “People Love Us on Yelp!” award — a testament to the positive experiences shared by our residents.

These recognitions reflect our ongoing commitment to creating a welcoming, high-quality living environment where residents truly feel at home.

Amenities Designed for Everyday Comfort

Life at Four Seasons offers the perfect blend of relaxation and convenience. Residents enjoy:

A sparkling pool in every building, making it easy to unwind close to home
Gated parking for added security and peace of mind
Lush courtyards and community spaces ideal for gathering
A pet-friendly environment
On-site laundry facilities and a responsive management team

Every detail is thoughtfully designed to enhance your daily living experience.

Join Us for Our January Open Houses

Our “New Year, New Home!” Open Houses are the perfect opportunity to explore everything Four Seasons Apartment Homes has to offer.

�� When: Every weekend in January
�� Time: During regular office hours
�� Where: Four Seasons Apartment Homes, Paramount

Stop by to tour our apartment homes, walk the community, and connect with our leasing team. Whether you’re actively searching or just beginning your apartment hunt, we’d love to welcome you.

�� Learn more or plan your visit at: https://www.fourseasonsapartmenthomes.com/

Make 2026 the year you find a home you love. New Year, New Home — we can’t wait to show you around!

Four Seasons Apartment Homes Wins Pride of Paramount Beautiful Property Award

Thu, 06 Jun 2024 06:30:24 GMT

AMC-owned property earns Model Multi-Unit designation for a second consecutive year.

PARAMOUNT, CA —For the second year in a row, Four Seasons Apartment Homes has been recognized as the Model Multi-Unit winner in the annual Pride of Paramount Beautiful Property Awards .

The Four Seasons Apartment Homes, which feature a total of 104 one- and two-bedroom units, has been owned and operated by Advanced Management Company (AMC) of Irvine, CA, since 1992. The property was chosen as the Model Multi-Unit winner in 2023 and 2024.

Residents of Paramount, CA, provided initial award nominations for homes and properties in five different categories, which were then reviewed by a panel of expert judges in real estate, property development, architecture and landscape design to select the most worthy candidates. Public voting on those finalists then determined the final winners in each category.

“We appreciate this award more because it takes into account the opinions of both industry experts and residents from throughout the city of Paramount,” said AMC President Danielle McCarthy. “We take a lot of pride in the Four Seasons property, from the eco-friendly, drought-tolerant landscaping to all the amenities offered to our residents, whom we refer to as VIPs. AMC is a family-owned company, and we strive to foster an environment where families feel right at home.”

Conveniently located on Indiana Avenue near the Paramount Drive-In Theatres and just over five miles from the Long Beach Airport, Four Seasons provides myriad resident-pleasing amenities, including four resort-style swimming pools, beautiful courtyards, on-site laundry facilities, private gated access, a dog run, BBQ grills, on-site and on-call maintenance and a pet-friendly, smoke-free environment.

“Our overarching mission at AMC is to make coming home the best part of our residents’ day,” McCarthy said. “Congratulations to our team members and VIPs at the Four Seasons for all contributing to the overall beauty of the property.”

To learn more about Four Seasons, visit www.fourseasonsapartmenthomes.com or call (424) 340-0542.

About AMC

AMC is a subsidiary of Advanced Real Estate Services, Inc., a real estate investment company founded in 1982 by Richard Julian and Frank Holloway. AMC maintains and operates nearly 12,000 multifamily units in Southern California. Find out more at amcliving.com .

Yelp Awards Four Seasons Apartment Homes High-Ranking Honor

Tue, 19 Dec 2023 19:59:55 GMT

AMC’s Paramount property earns “People Love Us on Yelp” designation as a result of resident ratings and reviews.

PARAMOUNT, CA—December 19, 2023— Yelp , the community-driven ratings platform, has chosen Four Seasons Apartment Homes for recognition as part of its “People Love Us on Yelp” campaign. The honor is reserved for Yelp’s highest-rated and best-reviewed businesses.

Yelp boasts 6 million active claimed business pages and over 265 million cumulative reviews. Recipients of the “People Love Us on Yelp” designation score the highest marks in both customer reviews and ratings. Four Seasons Apartment Homes, which has a total of 104 one- and two-bedroom units, has been owned and operated by Advanced Management Company (AMC) of Irvine, CA, since 1992.

“AMC is a family-owned company, and we strive to foster that all-in-this-together atmosphere at each of our 61 communities,” said Danielle Holloway McCarthy, AMC President. “What makes this Yelp award for Four Seasons so gratifying is that it is based on the reviews and ratings of our resident VIPs, which demonstrates that they’re having exactly the kind of living experiences we want for them. Congratulations to our staff at Four Seasons for creating that kind of environment.”

The Yelp award comes with an official window sticker and a certificate of authenticity and demonstrates the following:

Four Seasons staff members value customer feedback and encourage engagement.
The AMC property is positively vetted on the world’s largest review site.
Four Seasons is a universally loved business in the community.

The City of Paramount also recognized Four Seasons’ excellence this year, naming it the Model Multi-Unit in its Pride of Paramount Beautiful Property Awards .

“Our mission is to make coming home the best part of our residents’ day,” McCarthy said.

To learn more about Four Seasons, visit www.fourseasonsapartmenthomes.com or call (424) 340-0542.

About AMC

AMC is a subsidiary of Advanced Real Estate Services, Inc., a real estate investment company founded in 1982 by Richard Julian and Frank Holloway. AMC maintains and operates nearly 11,000 multifamily units in Southern California. Find out more at amcliving.com .

Media Contact

Camille Krahe Hardy

(949) 595-5969

chardy@amcliving.com

Celebrate the Holidays in Paramount, CA!

Wed, 15 Nov 2023 19:01:56 GMT

Filled with festivities and holiday cheer, Paramount, CA, is a special place to be in the wintertime. Like the rest of the country, holiday lights and decorations adorn the streets and homes in every neighborhood, sparkling with holiday cheer. However, while the rest of the country is bundling up in winter gear and shoveling the driveways before they can leave their house, here in Paramount, you can simply grab a jacket or coat and walk outside!

There are so many different ways to feel the magic of the holiday season in the Paramount area, both indoors and outdoors. With activities, shows and performances, shopping, and opportunities to serve, here are just a few of the festivities making Paramount, CA, the place to be for the holidays this year and every year:

Activities

What better way to celebrate the holidays than with a community of friends and neighbors? Paramount’s favorite public holiday traditions are a great way to invite some seasonal cheer into your life. Here are two events that will take place in Paramount this year:

Paramount Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony: Kick off the holiday season with a good old-fashioned Christmas tree lighting! This ceremony will include a special appearance by Santa Claus, plenty of cookies, hot chocolate, and a concert. Stop on by the Paramount Pond at Paramount Park on November 29 from 6 to 9 p.m. to get a jump start on the holiday spirit!

Santa’s Snowfest: Santa is every child’s favorite celebrity! Give your kids a chance to meet their hero at the Santa’s Snowfest community event! He will be making an appearance at Paramount Park on December 9. Space is limited, and appointments are required, so book now!

Shows and Performances

It seems that every year, the shows and performances just get better and better! Paramount, CA, has some truly spectacular performances scheduled for this year, all filled with holiday magic! Whether you prefer live music, movies, or musicals, there’s sure to be something to pique your interest and fulfill your holiday desires this year in Paramount!

Live Performance by Saddleback Bluegrass Band: If you love the country vibe, then you will love this live performance! The Saddleback Bluegrass Band will be performing Christmas music at their holiday show on December 9 at 6:30 p.m. in Paramount. Grab your cowboy boots and get your country holiday spirit on!

Polar Express at the Paramount Theatre: Telling the story of a young boy who comes to believe in Santa Claus through a magical experience, Polar Express (2004) is a popular movie this time of year! Watch it on the big screen at the Paramount Theatre for a more immersive experience. This movie is a great way to get into the holiday spirit!

The War on Christmas: The Musical: This 12-song musical satire explores the “persecution” of Christmas in an unforgettable presentation of song, dance, and comedy! Enjoy a new twist on your favorite holiday by enjoying this whimsical musical. Presented by Top Billing Entertainment Performance Academy, this show will be performing near Paramount on multiple dates during this holiday season. Tickets are available now, so purchase them soon before they sell out! This comedic musical is sure to be fun for the whole family!

Shopping

What are the holidays without presents? As exciting as it is to receive presents of your own, is there really anything better than seeing a loved one’s face light up as they open a holiday gift you picked out for them? Whether you’re looking for unique seasonal decorations or a special gift to show someone how much you care, Paramount is the perfect place to be with its abundance of shopping centers.

Paramount Town Center: The Paramount Town Center is the perfect place to grab some gifts for your friends and family. Full of stores, you can find gifts for children, adults, babies, and anyone else! Avoid the crowds by starting your shopping early.

Paramount Collectibles: If you are looking for a truly unique gift for that special someone, then Paramount Collectibles is the place to be! Paramount Collectibles specializes in selling only the very best products, and they are the largest Paramount store in that regard. Entering their store will give you full access to a massive collection of the greatest merchandise.

Opportunities to Serve

There are ways to give that don’t involve presents. If you have the means or the time during this special time of year, consider giving to those less fortunate than you so they too can feel the joy of this winter season. Here are some great volunteer opportunities in and around Paramount, CA, this year:

Winter Wonderland: TOY DRIVE: This toy drive really focuses on the spirit of giving, with free toys, haircuts, health screenings, ice rink, activities for kids, and more. The event is free and open to all, so if you or anyone you know is struggling this holiday season, invite them to Be Social Productions’ toy drive and join the spirit of giving!

City Electric Chili Cook-Off and Toy Drive: Come and gather together for some delicious chili and holiday giving! All toys will be donated to Toys for Tots to help create a positive and joyful memory for those in need during Christmas 2023. Come and volunteer or put your cooking skills to the test for a great, entertaining, feel-good experience where you have the opportunity to help those less fortunate than you are!

Christmas Together 2023: Christmas Together will be distributing 30,000 toys and creating an unforgettable experience for children to enjoy. This experience will include carnival rides and games, raffles, entertainment, a picture with Santa, holiday meals, and a variety of food options—all for free! Quantity is limited, so register soon!

Did you know that the holiday season is when candle stores see their biggest boom in sales? Everyone loves a good pine-scented candle this time of year, but you must be careful when enjoying this seasonal scent. Did you know that up to 7,400 fires are started each year because of household candles? Consider using battery-powered candles to achieve the same ambiance without the added danger. Whatever you do, never leave your holiday candles unattended!

Christmas trees can be another fire hazard this time of year. If you’re one of the many Americans who can’t go without a real Christmas tree display in your apartment during the holiday season, then just make sure you keep it watered! Dry pine needles are extra flammable. Keep all open flames, such as candles, away from the branches, and make sure you turn all lights off when you’re not at home. Stay safe and enjoy the holidays!

With so much to do in Paramount, CA, you’re sure to make many lasting memories this holiday season. Take advantage of the local activities, shows and performances, shopping, and opportunities to serve, and be safe while celebrating. From all of us at Four Seasons Apartments in Paramount, CA, Happy Holidays!

Paramount Spotlight: George’s Greek Cafe

Tue, 24 Aug 2021 21:21:00 GMT

How many of your most cherished memories have something to do with food? From spending time on the weekends eating brunch with your family to cooking a meal with one of your favorite people, there are many ways food can bond us.

Similarly, food can open special pathways for different cultures to connect with one another. This is one reason why we love eating out and trying new foods with our friends and family. George’s Greek Cafe is a specific example of a restaurant that we love in Paramount, CA. Here are three reasons why we love this Greek place oh so much.

Delicious Food

There’s a reason why George’s Greek Cafe is ranked first out of all Mediterranean food in the area on Tripadvisor. The owner and chef, George, is not only talented at making amazing and authentic Greek food but he and his wife are also friendly and welcoming to all guests.

Everything we’ve tried has been delicious, but if you need a recommendation, consider trying the lamb chops or your choice of kabob. We personally love the beef kabob with rice and veggies on the side. Whether you’re an adventurous eater or you’re picky, there’s something on the menu for everyone at George’s Greek Cafe in Paramount.

Great Atmosphere

On top of the wonderful food, George’s Greek Cafe has an atmosphere that both you and your dog will love. Their outdoor patio is spacious and dog-friendly, which means you can enjoy a great meal with all of your loved ones—whether they’re human or not.

If you don’t want to sit and spend some time at the restaurant, they also have great options for takeout and delivery. Regardless of where you enjoy the yummy food, you’ll love your experience.

Amazing Service

If amazing food and a great atmosphere aren’t enough to sell you on George’s Greek Cafe, just wait until you hear about the service. The entire staff goes above and beyond to make sure you have a great experience at the restaurant. From providing food recommendations to making sure your food arrives hot and in a timely manner, they care about every customer’s experience.

Just listen to this review on Yelp from Tatiana B.: “Food is delicious and staff is extremely friendly and helpful. I once ordered a pick up from their other location by mistake and they got me fed and taken care of when I came for my food to this location instead and were super sweet about it.”

For great food, great atmosphere, and great service, look no further than George’s Greek Cafe. It’s sure to satisfy your appetite and your soul. And if you’re looking for apartments in Paramount, California near delicious restaurants, look no further than Four Seasons Apartment Homes . Give us a call to schedule your tour!

Photo credit: George’s Greek Cafe

Three Hidden Gems in Paramount, California

Tue, 13 Jul 2021 02:11:00 GMT

Summer is finally here, which means it’s time to soak up the sunshine, spend quality time with our loved ones, eat as many popsicles as we can, and take a dip at the beach or pool. It’s clear to see why sunny California embodies the idea of summertime: Just look around to see palm trees, blue skies, and sandy beaches.

If you’re looking for fun things to do in Paramount this summer, take some time to explore a few of our favorite spots. Between golf courses, museums, and our favorite drive-in theatre, you’ll be able to explore the area around your home to make lasting memories with your favorite people.

Los Amigos Golf Course

If you like to golf, Los Amigos Golf Course is the perfect spot for you. Not only is the golf course itself beautiful, but they are also following social distancing guidelines to ensure everyone’s safety. On top of playing a round of golf, you can also rent out their banquet room for private events like weddings, quinceañeras, events, and meetings, as well as host your very own golf tournament. With professional scoring by PGA professionals and personalized golf signs, you can feel like you’re a professional at a location just minutes from your apartment.

Dominguez Rancho Adobe Museum

One of our favorite things to do in Paramount in the summer is to visit a local museum to brush up on our history knowledge. We love the Dominguez Rancho Adobe Museum because the site has special significance to our state’s history. Not only was it the first Spanish land grant in California, but it’s also the oldest existing grant still owned by the family of the original beneficiaries.

The Adobe Museum provides a special opportunity to have fun while learning about California’s history. With a variety of tours—featuring public, guided, private, and even Spanish-speaking tours—as well as programs every weekend, you’ll have plenty to do with your friends or family. The Dominguez Rancho Adobe Museum is also officially open to the public and has scheduled tours every Wednesday, Saturday, and Sunday.

Paramount Drive-In Theatres

What screams summer more than a nostalgic visit to a drive-in theatre? Paramount Drive-In Theatres shows the most recent releases in the evenings, which means it’s the perfect spot for some relaxation after a day at work. Plus, the theatre is less than a 10-minute drive away from Four Seasons Apartment Homes .

Not only is the drive-in theatre following social distancing guidelines, but they also have the option to host private events , where you can have up to 220 cars come to watch one of your favorite movies.

We are so excited to enjoy the beautiful summer weather at our favorite spots. With several fun things to do in Paramount—like golfing at Los Amigos, learning more about California history at the Dominguez Rancho Adobe Museum, and seeing a movie at Paramount Drive-In Theatres—we hope you love this season as much as we do!

If you fall in love with Paramount, California, consider living at Four Seasons Apartment Homes . We know you would love it here!

Four Seasons Apartment Homes offers one- and two-bedroom apartments for rent in Paramount, California.

Check Out This Easy Trick to Improve Your Credit Score

Tue, 08 Jun 2021 19:58:00 GMT

According to Equifax , a good credit score ranges from 670 to 739. If your score happens to fall below this range, you aren’t out of luck. One way to improve your score is by paying your rent online.

At Four Seasons Apartments , we offer an online rental payment system to help all of our residents improve their credit. When next month rolls around, boost your credit score by paying your rent online so that we can report your payments to the credit bureaus. And if you’re looking for an extra boost, consider paying your rent with a credit card.

Start Paying Rent Online

How are credit scores determined? According to Experian, the following elements all play a significant part in determining a score:

As you pay for your rent online, your payments become part of your payment history. The more you make online payments on time, the higher your score can be. When you pay your rent online, use our resident portal for a quick and convenient experience.

Report Your Rent Payments

After making a rent payment, ensure that your payment is reported to the credit bureaus and calculated into your report. According to RentTrack , “It’s not possible to report information directly to the big three credit bureaus: TransUnion, Experian and Equifax.” Using a reporting agency such as RentTrack will make sure credit bureaus see your payments.

Thankfully, The Four Seasons Apartments automatically reports your online payments to the credit bureaus for you. Simply submit your payment online, then allow us to do the rest!

Pay with a Credit Card

To improve your credit score even more, consider paying your rent with a credit card.

“Open a credit card and use it to pay your rent . . . then pay your credit card balance in full each month,” says LaToya Irby, credit expert for The Balance. “The timely credit card payments will help boost your credit score.”

While it’s not a must, paying your rent with a credit card will give you that extra boost you are looking for!

As you submit your rental payments online and ensure that your payments get reported to credit bureaus, you will see your credit score improve. Additionally, paying rent with a credit card will ensure that your score continues to soar. Happy credit score boosting!

Looking for Apartments that Promote Green Living? Check Out Four Seasons!

Wed, 19 May 2021 19:17:00 GMT

Even though 75 percent of waste is recyclable, Americans recycle only about 30 percent of it. There is a lot of room for improvement when it comes to taking care of our planet. That’s why at Four Seasons Apartment Homes , we strive to do our part and make living green easy for our residents.

Here are a few things we have implemented to promote green living at Four Seasons.

Drought-Tolerant Landscaping

We know Southern California is prone to droughts, so we do what we can to use water sparingly. First of all, our property has drought-tolerant landscaping, meaning that we use plants, like succulents, that don’t require a lot of water. We have also installed a drip irrigation system and utilize beautiful stone rather than grass in some areas of the property. This saves on gallons of water!

Low-Flow Toilets

Indoors, we save on water with our plumbing system. Most toilets use about 3.5 gallons of water every time they flush, but not ours! We have low-flow toilets , which use about 20 percent less water than regular toilets. Each low-flow toilet can surprisingly save up to 13,000 gallons of water per year.

Paper- and Plastic-Free Setup

Not only do we save on water, but we also save on paper by doing everything—rent payments, service requests, applications, and notices—online. This isn’t just convenient for our residents, but it eliminates the need for unnecessary paper waste.

In our community, we strive to provide quality services to help make your life as a resident a little easier. Visit our new resident portal to pay your rent online, enter a maintenance service request, browse our calendar for upcoming activities, and much more!

Recycling

At Four Seasons, we encourage all of our residents to recycle. Items to recycle include plastic containers and bottles, empty cans, paper, and cardboard. But be careful not to recycle anything with liquid, food plastic bags, or plastic wrap, as these things can interfere with the ability of other things to be recycled.

In Paramount, you can recycle at Paramount Resource Recycling . We encourage all to make the extra effort to recycle whatever you can.

We’re Excited to Announce Organic Waste Recycling!

Organic waste recycling will be coming soon to our local community, and we can’t wait to participate! This initiative will help keep millions of pounds of food waste out of landfills and turn them into compost and renewable natural gas . We’ll keep you up to date as this program expands throughout the state.

Through these small ways to live more green, we can collectively make a positive impact on our environment. If you are looking for an apartment complex that cares as much about the earth as you do, consider living at Four Seasons!

Looking for Apartments for Rent in Paramount? Try the Four Seasons

Fri, 16 Apr 2021 22:31:00 GMT

Located in Los Angeles County, the city of Paramount is a charming place to live. What began as a small dairy community has now become a suburban city offering a high quality of life. From coffee shops and parks to galleries and museums, there are always activities to do!

If you are looking for apartments to rent in Paramount, consider living at the Four Seasons Apartment Homes. Read on to learn about what makes us unique.

Resort-Style Amenities

There are so many apartments for rent in Paramount. What sets The Four Season Apartment Homes apart from the competition? The first thing that comes to mind is our amazing amenities. From a resort-style pool to private gated access, your life at The Four Seasons will be nothing but luxurious. Below are some of the amenities we offer:

Spacious Living

We pride ourselves on offering spacious living areas for our residents. From our one-bedroom floor plans to our two-bedroom floor plan, you’ll have multiple options to consider!

Enjoy an updated kitchen with designer quartz countertops, energy-efficient appliances, and ample cabinet space. As you walk down the hall into the bedroom, you will notice plenty of linen storage and a large closet. The bathroom features a long counter, lower storage space, and a bathtub and shower combo.

Whichever floor plan you choose, you can find comfort in knowing that your home will be updated, modern, and spacious.

Helpful Staff

At The Four Seasons Apartment Homes , what’s not to enjoy? Thanks to a fabulous maintenance team, our grounds are in pristine condition. The moment you enter our community, you will notice plush grass and desert landscaping lining our boundaries. Our leasing team will happily greet you at the door and answer any questions you may have. A staff member will take you on a guided tour, stopping to highlight our most popular public areas.

Once you become a resident, you will have access to a 24-hour maintenance team, free pest control services, and an amazing property manager who is more than willing to address your needs. Our goal is to make coming home the best part of your day, and one way we accomplish that goal is through our welcoming, friendly staff! If you need anything, we are merely a text or call away.

If you are looking for an apartment in Paramount, California, consider The Four Seasons Apartment Homes! From our resort-style amenities and spacious living to our wonderful staff, our community would make the perfect home. The only thing missing is you!

Everything You Need to Know About Pets at Four Seasons

Tue, 15 Dec 2020 19:03:00 GMT

At Four Seasons Apartment Homes, we’re big fans of pets. They do so much to make us and our residents happy! Read on to learn more about keeping a pet at our property.

The Benefits of Having a Pet

You’ve probably heard that owning a pet can benefit your health, and it’s totally true! The Human Animal Bond Research Institute (HABRI) and Cohen Research Group surveyed 2,000 pet owners about their self-reported benefits of pet ownership: 74 percent reported mental health improvements, and 54 percent reported improvements in physical health. Which makes sense: Companionship and snuggles can help curb loneliness and boost happiness . And endless games of fetch or simply the physical activity required to keep pets clean, fed, and active helps you stay physically healthy.

Pets and the Four Seasons

We love pets here at Four Seasons Apartment Homes! Here are things to keep in mind about pet ownership at our property :

Other questions about pets? Please see our management team. They are happy to answer your questions, and you can ask them for approval on additional or other pets.

Out on the Town

If you’re a dog owner, you know how much our furry friends love to run free! Luckily, there are some great options available for your pooch to have leash-free fun. Here are a couple of places:

We love pets at Four Seasons Apartment Homes! They help keep us healthy and provide an excuse to get outside and enjoy nature. Reach out today if you have any questions!

Rent vs. Buy: Three Reasons Renting Takes the Cake

Fri, 30 Oct 2020 00:03:00 GMT

Did you know? Renters now make up 34 percent of America’s general population. That means there are over 100 million people renting homes, apartments, and other properties throughout the country. And that number is rising.

When considering “rent vs. buy,” there are lots of pros to consider on the rent side of things! For starters, there’s more flexibility with moving, a difference in costs, and fewer tasks on your to-do list. Read on to learn more.

More Flexibility with Moving

When weighing up rent vs. buy, flexibility is a huge pro on the rent side of things. Unlike a mortgage, which can tie you down for some 30-odd years, a lease is relatively short. That can allow you to live a more flexible overall lifestyle. Instead of committing to eating a whole cake, you commit to one slice, and then you can get another slice, or change flavors!

“Renting has always been a step in the process and rarely the endgame,” says Robert Pinnegar, president and CEO of the National Apartment Association. “Based on the growing number of renters in major cities throughout the country . . . it’s clear that attitude is changing. Instead of viewing renting as a short-term phase, an increasing number of residents are choosing rental housing specifically because it offers a more-flexible lifestyle than homeownership.”

To support our tenants who are moving, we’ve instituted a loyalty bonus. If you move from Four Seasons Apartment Homes to another AMC property or vice versa, we’ll give you $250 to help you hit the ground running. We’re not eager to say goodbye, but we want to help make your move as smooth as possible.

Difference in Costs

Imagine you’re in charge of buying a nice cake for a family member’s graduation party. You put a small deposit down when you order the cake and pay the remaining balance when you pick it up. While the cake is sitting on the table, you notice the decorative frosting has been smudged. You call the cake company, and they promptly come and rewrite the message. Then they give you your deposit back. (Just like renting an apartment.) Sweet!

Then imagine you need to order another nice cake from a different company. You put down 20 percent to hold it. When you pick up the cake, you notice the decorative frosting is smudged. But there’s no one to call! You scramble and end up paying your cousin to patch it up. After the party, you pay the remaining balance in payments, with interest, over the next several months. You end up spending way more than the price that was originally quoted to you. (Just like buying a home.) Not so sweet.

In 2019, 82 percent of renters said renting is more affordable than owning, jumping up from 67 percent the year before. When buying a home with a mortgage, your down payment is typically around 20 percent of the total purchase price. And you need to pay property taxes and homeowner’s insurance.

When renting, though, you only need to pay a security deposit, usually equal to one month’s rent, which will be returned to you when you move out (so long as you haven’t damaged the property). And renter’s insurance is much more affordable than homeowner’s insurance.

Fewer Tasks on Your To-Do List

Have you ever taken a bite of scrumptious-looking cake and realized the filling was a flavor you can’t stand? Life is like that sometimes—you’re enjoying your life when BAM ! Your A/C stops working. When the unexpected happens, it’s nice to know that someone else is responsible for making repairs —you don’t have to worry about it! At Four Seasons Apartment Homes, for example, our knowledgeable and friendly staff are trained and certified to keep your apartment in tip-top shape. When you report something that needs attention, our team will be sure to help. That’s much preferable to making a trip to the hardware store, isn’t it?

When comparing rent vs. buy, it’s easy to see why more and more people are choosing to rent. There’s more flexibility with moving, a difference in costs, and fewer tasks on your to-do list. Ready to see if renting Paramount might be the right choice for you? Come visit Four Seasons Apartment Homes and see the benefits of renting here for yourself.

The Three Qualities of a Good Friend

Thu, 03 Sep 2020 15:53:00 GMT

For many of us, this has been a strange year. Vacations have been canceled, highly anticipated concerts have been postponed, and casual trips to the movies, nightclubs, and even leisurely Saturday brunch dates with friends haven’t been possible. As we strive to stay healthy during this pandemic, one of the hardest aspects to deal with has been the inability to simply hang out with our friends.

Luckily, we live in a time in which we have options like Zoom, FaceTime, and Google Hangouts for safely interacting with our friends. These remote connections have placed a new importance on the qualities of a good friend. What are some of these qualities? Active listening, communicating honestly, and exuding positivity. Here’s why those qualities are so important.

Active Listening

We’ve all been there: Your friend is talking to you while you’re scrolling on your phone, and you’re only half-listening to her. All of a sudden, you hear very clearly: “Did you hear what I just said?” Now, when actual face time with friends is rare, it’s time we push aside distractions and become active listeners.

VeryWellMind.com offers five tips for improving your active listening skills:

Honesty

Honesty is one of the most crucial qualities of a good friend. The best friends can be trusted to give honest advice, whether the person is struggling with a life-changing decision or just wants to know if a new dress is really as flattering as the salesperson claimed. Good friends keep confidences, don’t lie to protect feelings , and give sincere compliments. If you are looking to strengthen a friendship, practice honesty in all you do.

Positivity

A good venting session can be therapeutic every once in a while, but nobody likes a Debbie Downer who only exudes negativity, worry, and pessimism. Our favorite people to be around are often those who are optimistic, grateful go-getters. Those friends are always sharing fun stories, recalling hilarious memories, and offering up adventurous excursions. Right now, negativity is overtaking headlines, workplace chatter, and social media feeds. When you exhibit an upbeat, happy personality, you can become a lifeline to a friend in need of an emotional boost.

Staying connected with your friends may look different during this time of social distancing. But you can strengthen your relationships by exhibiting these three qualities of a good friend: active listening, honesty, and positivity. Your friends will appreciate your efforts!

Want to Know How to Increase Your Credit Score? Pay Rent Online

Wed, 05 Aug 2020 09:59:00 GMT

If there is one key thing known for making life easier, it would be maintaining a good credit score. This is especially true considering your credit score can affect everything from car insurance rates to qualifying for lower car loan rates to even avoiding security deposits on utilities.

To increase your credit score and take advantage of those benefits, try to pay rent online. Making those monthly on-time rent payments ensures your payments are reported to the key credit bureaus, provides those bureaus with the information they are seeking, and, when combined with credit card payments, can increase your score even more. Here’s how.

Makes Sure Payments Are Reported

“Simply paying your rent will not help you build credit,” says Bev O’Shea at NerdWallet. “But reporting your rent payments can help you build credit—especially if you are new to credit or do not have a lot of experience using it.”

So how do you make sure your rent payments are reported? Log into the Four Seasons online rental payment portal to pay rent online each month. By using this convenient payment system, you’ll know that your positive rental payment history is being reported, boosting your credit score. In order to opt in for the credit reporting, follow these steps:

Provides Credit Bureaus with Important Data

There are five key elements that make up a credit score, and because some of those elements are more vital, credit bureaus weigh some heavier than others.

“Even though the specific equation for coming up with your credit score is proprietary information owned by FICO, we do know what information is used to calculate your score,” says LaToya Irby, credit expert for The Balance . For example,

Considering that the highest percentage of those credit score elements is payment history, it makes sense to get recognition when you pay rent online and on time.

Boost Scores Higher When Combined with Credit Card Payments

Looking to boost your credit score even higher while also reaping the benefits of a rewards-based credit card? Use that air-miles or cash-back card rather than your debit card.

“Open a credit card and use it to pay your rent . . . then pay your credit card balance in full each month,” says Irby. “The timely credit card payments will help boost your credit score.”

A better credit score is closer than you think when you pay rent online. Once you’ve set up your online payment portal account for rent, your payments will be reported to credit bureaus and show the bureaus exactly what they are looking for. Plus, if you choose to pay rent with a rewards credit card, you may increase your score even more while also earning some cash back or air miles.

Four Unique but Delicious Ice Cream Toppings to Try

Fri, 17 Jul 2020 18:35:00 GMT

There is likely no better summertime sweet treat that also helps beat the heat than a heaping scoop of ice cream. Whether piled high in a bowl or crammed into a waffle cone, ice cream is the perfect conclusion to a fun day at the swimming pool, any summer evening walk, or just a night in watching the newest Netflix movie.

When it comes to topping that bowl or cone, there are countless ice cream topping options. While many options lean toward traditional favorites like hot fudge, caramel, chopped nuts, and whipped cream, there are some out-of-the-box options proving to be quite tasty and delicious. Next time you head out to your favorite ice cream shop like Cate’s Ice Cream or Cravings Ice Cream and Waffles , consider these four unique ice cream toppings for some delicious inspiration.

Salty Sweet

Do you ever dip your salty French fries into your strawberry milkshake? While a bit unconventional, there are scientific studies that explain the appeal behind the melding of salty and sweet. So go ahead and combine both contrasting flavors on your next ice cream dessert. Try crumbled Ritz Crackers or pretzels on caramel ice cream, add barbecue potato chips to a blackberry ice cream, or sprinkle simple, flaked sea salt atop a dark chocolate ice cream.

Sauces and Glazes

Any bowl of ice cream, no matter what flavor, is made just a bit extra special when those scoops are topped with a delicious sauce or glaze. Instead of traditional caramel or hot fudge, consider ice cream toppings that are a bit more palate expanding. For a delicious bowl of strawberry ice cream, drizzle with a rich balsamic vinegar reduction for a beautiful twist. Or, for an even more sophisticated flavor combination, top your vanilla ice cream with olive oil and sea salt .

Crispity Crunchity

When building a perfect bowl of ice cream, some people love to incorporate contrasting textures—chewy, crunchy, and crispy to enhance the creamy goodness. Chopped nuts are often the go-to for a typical sundae, but for your next frozen dessert, try adding someone altogether new. Add some of your favorite breakfast cereal flavors to your bowl, like Cinnamon Toast Crunch, Lucky Charms, Fruity Pebbles, or even Frosted Flakes. Looking for even more crunch? Try caramel corn or peanut brittle for some circus fun.

Garden Fresh

Looking for a simple, garden-fresh topping for your ice cream? Grab some snippers and head out to the herb garden for a new option. That bowl of fresh strawberry ice cream is just calling for slivers of fresh basil. Love the flavor of lavender? Crush up a few blooms and top a bowl of French vanilla ice cream. Using that same vanilla ice cream as a base, finely chop up some rosemary to sprinkle on top and drizzle with honey for a flavor explosion.

No matter what your favorite flavor is, there is a multitude of unique ice cream toppings to perfectly dress up your summertime dessert. So try something new this summer—and let us know how it goes!

How to Potty Train Your Pet in an Apartment

Mon, 01 Jun 2020 19:46:00 GMT

California’s shelter-in-place order has proven to be extremely beneficial for animal shelters throughout the state. As it turns out, now is a wonderful time to adopt a dog or cat! You may find that with all this time at home, your new family addition will easily adapt to its new surroundings, including quickly potty training!

While cats tend to be easier to house train as long as there’s easy access to a litterbox, puppies (and even some older rescue dogs) definitely require more attention once you bring them home. To ease this transition, here are five tips for housetraining your new adorable fur baby while living in an apartment.

Set the routine.

We are all creatures of habit —your pet included! Establishing a clear daily routine for your new pet is the very first step to creating a loving environment for your new family member. Schedule set times for meals, walks, playing, and sleeping. Remember, puppies require potty breaks immediately after waking or coming out of their crate, and within five to 20 minutes of eating, drinking, or playing. This puppy potty log is a great way to keep track of their routine.

Reward only good behavior.

When your new rescue pet or puppy is adjusting to a new home and schedule, there will likely be accidents. That’s OK! Clean up quickly to maintain a positive living space, and reinforce positive behaviors . Did Fido wait to go potty outside after being in his crate for a few hours? Give that doggy a treat! Don’t punish for accidents ; this will only make the pet fear you as an owner.

Crate train.

Training your dog to sleep in a crate is not just about protecting your home from accidents. Crate training is also essential for providing a sense of security and enabling safe travel. The American Kennel Club gives many tips on how to crate train effectively .

Designate play areas.

For a more obedient pet, be sure to provide them with the stimulation they need. A big part of this is giving your pet adequate playtime and a space for it. Even when living in small spaces, this can be done by providing a specific play space where you also keep all the toys. Outside, scope out the grassy areas in the neighborhood as well as the nearest dog parks. Those dog parks will be a great way for your new furry friend to socialize with other dogs and burn off some energy.

Prep for loud noises.

Loud noises are bound to startle a new pet and can interfere with potty training. With city life, these loud noises will happen more frequently. Work to reassure your puppy that loud noises are not a threat by engaging in distraction or increased exposure methods. Over time and with your assistance, your pet will adapt.

By adhering to a routine, rewarding only good behavior, crate training, setting up specific play areas, and preparing for loud noises, your pet will be housetrained in no time. In addition, you will likely find that your pup is quickly adapting to its new apartment lifestyle as well.

4 Ways to Hang Decor without Damaging Apartment Walls

Tue, 12 May 2020 22:09:00 GMT

“Home Sweet Home” is more than a saying stitched onto a pillow. It’s important to make your apartment feel homey and inviting. In times of COVID-mandated quarantines when you are spending even more time in your little abode, you want your surroundings to be as comfortable and appealing as possible.

Interior decorating is all about infusing your personality into your space, but hammering nails into the walls of your apartment to hang your favorite pictures isn’t always conducive to your housing contract. Before you grab that hammer, consider these four ways to hang wall decor without damaging walls.

Stick with adhesives.

The easiest alternative to punching nail holes in your walls is to use adhesive products. Lightweight posters, loose Polaroid images, and other lightweight decor stick perfectly using poster putty . For heavier items like framed pictures, try the array of 3M-brand Command Hooks . These products are designed for easy, wall-saving removal.

Take the pressure off with tension rods.

Looking to section off particular areas of your home in a unique way? Does your pantry not have a door, or are you looking to add some color to your bedroom with a tapestry? Instead of hanging up a beaded curtain or bright wall hanging with push pins or thumbtacks, try using a tension curtain rod. You can even use a tension rod to hang multiple photos .

Make decorating easier with an easel.

Want to add a bit of gallery sophistication to your interior design aesthetic? Try using easels to display your favorite pieces of art. No need to invest in those elaborate artists’ easels, although they can be gorgeous. For apartment decor, you can opt for simple easels found at your favorite dollar store. Easels are also great for propping up beloved books like that beautiful, well-used cookbook you can now proudly display in your kitchen.

Get crafty and create a photo board.

If you’re dying to create a gallery display on your office wall or want to hang all your travel photos in a stunning collage but worry about putting holes in your walls, try creating a faux wall or photo board instead. Find a large, vintage photo frame , spruce it up, and string twine in a zigzag pattern. Then you can hang photos with clothespins. Or, staple a favorite fabric or even wallpaper to a large piece of drywall or corkboard; prop it up behind your entertainment center or on a sofa table and hang whatever you want.

Decorating your apartment doesn’t have to mean sacrificing your deposit. With a few tools of the trade, like adhesive products, tension rods, easels, and even upcycled products, you can add your personalized touch to your apartment without punching holes in any of your walls.

How to Spring Clean Effectively and Efficiently

Tue, 28 Apr 2020 16:46:00 GMT

April showers bring May flowers—in addition to a perfect reason to stay indoors and spring clean. In the middle of trading your winter wardrobe for summer, gather your supplies and dive into a weekend full of deep cleaning.

No matter the size of your home, cleaning every inch and crevice may seem overwhelming at first. To help you complete such a daunting task, consider following these four tips to clean effectively and efficiently.

Begin by Decluttering

You can’t deep clean if there are toys lying around your living room, dirty clothes sprawled throughout your bedroom, and leftover cooking supplies cramming the kitchen counters. Start your spring cleaning by decluttering your items, especially in the high-traffic areas.

One great idea to speed up the decluttering process is to set a timer for each room . Give yourself ten minutes to declutter before moving on to the bigger task: cleaning. Knowing you only have ten minutes in each room to finish the job will motivate you to work harder.

Clean Room by Room

When spring cleaning, you may catch yourself asking these questions: Where do I start? How much time should I spend in one area? What is considered deep cleaning versus just organizing?

Don’t let these questions overwhelm you! The best way to tackle them is to create a simple task list for each room of the things you want to accomplish. For example, in the bathroom, you may need to focus on removing hard-water stains on the sink faucet and unclogging the shower drain (thick/long hair problems!). In the kitchen, the microwave, stove, and fridge may be the highest priorities. The closets and dressers in your bedroom may need some tidying, too ( Marie Kondo-style , of course).

Arranging your cleaning list by room will help you more thoroughly clean each room in its entirety and take some stress off your shoulders.

Work from the Top Down

Have you ever swept your kitchen floor but then decided to wash off your kitchen counters, causing crumbs to fall down? No one wants to reclean, especially if they did a thorough job the first go around. To save yourself time and energy, clean from the top down . In other words, dust the ceiling fans, wipe down light fixtures, and clean the windows before sweeping, mopping, or vacuuming. This will ensure that you catch any dust from above that falls on the floor.

Don’t Overspend on Products

There is no need to run to the store and buy expensive cleaning supplies. Nearly all your spring chores can be accomplished by using common items you already have. Here are a few essentials:

These products are extremely effective in safely, economically, and environmentally cleaning your home and can be used in combinations or alone. Make a one-to-one solution of vinegar and water to refresh your bathroom. Mix one cup of olive oil with a half-cup of lemon juice to polish your furniture. Stir together lemon juice, vinegar, and baking soda to create the perfect scrubbing paste. And lastly, add a half cup of Borax per gallon water in your cleaner’s reservoir to enhance your carpet.

If you want to spring clean efficiently and effectively, follow the four cleaning steps above. Your apartment will appear fresh and new!

Four Ways to Be Friendly to a New Neighbor

Mon, 20 Apr 2020 20:02:00 GMT

One of the many benefits of living in a shared community is being surrounded by people. This provides you with countless opportunities to build relationships. You never know if a new neighbor could become your next best friend, so go out of your way to meet them!

Here are three ways you can be kind to the newbies around the block—even during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Introduce Yourself

Try to put yourselves in your new neighbor’s shoes. Chances are that they don’t know anyone in the apartment complex. They could be stressed balancing work and unpacking, or they may be new to the area and not know their way around. The best way to help them feel comfortable is to say hi. Even when being friendly, though, make sure to stand at least six feet away from them at all times.

Bake Them a Treat

We all know that food is the key to everyone’s heart! Since being quarantined, you probably have some extra time on your hands. Consider using that time to make your new neighbor baked goods. If you have a bundle of ripe bananas, whip up some muffins ; if your pantry is full of chocolate chips, bake some cookies . Nothing screams, “Hey! Let’s be friends!” louder than a plate of fresh sweets.

Alert Them of Any Future Events

Do you host weekly Bunco gatherings, dinner parties, or game nights at your apartment? The old-timers in the apartment complex may already be aware of your events, but your newbie neighbor most likely isn’t. With watch parties and remote gaming options becoming more popular, you don’t even need to wait for the statewide lockdown to end to get your neighbors together (virtually). Make sure to invite your new neighbor to play!

Offer Help and Support

We all have moments when we are in need of a friend, especially during a pandemic. Send a text to your neighbor to make sure they have enough food and supplies. If you’re doing a grocery shopping haul, ask your neighbor if there is anything you can pick up for them. There’s no point for the both of you to wait in line for 20 minutes outside Trader Joe’s. You can even take turns grabbing essential items for each other!

The next time someone moves into the apartment complex, follow the tips above. These small but friendly acts will show that you care, and they will help your neighbor feel more welcomed to the community.

Looking for the Recipe to Healthy and Happy Living? Try Being More Kind.

Thu, 26 Mar 2020 21:56:00 GMT

Kindness. We just can’t get enough of it. Millions of us click on viral posts of random acts online: people proudly post images of the exorbitant tip left to an unsuspecting waitress or videos of a rescue team saving a horse from drowning. Even today’s workplaces are exploring the emotional effects of kind acts among coworkers.

“Office culture can be cutthroat and competitive, leading to hurtful criticism, lack of collaboration, and miscommunication,” says Dr. Pragya Agarwal . “However, now we are increasingly talking about wellbeing in the workplace, and bringing an authentic quality to our work, being gentle with ourselves, and with others around us.”

Research shows kindness and well-being are closely linked. Although the benefits to the recipients of kind acts are evident, science is uncovering connections between kindness and one’s health and overall happiness.

If you need an incentive to take the high road when you interact with people, here are four healthy and happy rewards for choosing kindness.

1. Improves Heart Health

There’s a reason why kind people are known for having big hearts—literally. According to Dr. David R. Hamilton , the emotional reaction to acts of kindness release the hormone oxytocin.

“Oxytocin causes the release of a chemical called nitric oxide in blood vessels, which dilates (expands) the blood vessels,” explains Hamilton. “This reduces blood pressure and therefore oxytocin is known as a ‘cardioprotective’ hormone because it protects the heart (by lowering blood pressure).” So it seems science proves that having a heart is actually good for it, too.

How can you reap these heart-health benefits? Plenty of studies have shown that social support is associated with better health, including cardiovascular health. So get out there in the community, make friends with your neighbors, and see how it benefits your heart—emotionally and physically.

2. Reduces the Risk of Depression

A study headed by Stephen Post of Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine found that when we share our time, resources, and other selfless acts, everything from life satisfaction to self-realization and physical health is significantly improved. Mortality is delayed, depression is reduced, and wellbeing and good fortune are increased.

At Cedars-Sinai , scientists are studying the links between kindness and increased dopamine levels. As dopamine is known for elevating feelings of euphoria, research is focused on the effects dopamine has on mental health.

“Mindfulness-based therapy is becoming increasingly popular for treating depression, anxiety, and other mental health conditions,” say doctors at Cedars-Sinai. “The therapy is built on mindfulness meditation, documenting your gratitude, and acts of kindness. People being treated in a mindfulness-based therapy program incorporate acts of kindness into their daily routines.”

Essentially, practicing kindness increases your dopamine levels, which ultimately helps improve your overall happiness and health.

3. Reduces Anxiety

In a study published by the University of British Columbia Study , a test group comprised of highly anxious individuals performed at least six acts of kindness a week. After one month, there was a significant increase in positive moods and relationship satisfaction, as well as a decrease in social avoidance in socially anxious individuals. The act itself didn’t need to be big to be effective. Kind acts took larger forms like donating to a favorite charity and small gestures such as putting a quarter in a stranger’s parking meter that was about to expire.

“We found that any kind act appeared to have the same benefit, even small gestures like opening a door for someone or saying ‘thanks’ to the bus driver,” says Dr. Lynn Alden, who led the study. “Kindness didn’t need to involve money or time-consuming efforts, although some of our participants did do such things. Kindness didn’t even need to be ‘face to face.’”

In other words, it isn’t the size of the act that promotes happy feelings but the act itself. When anxiety creeps in, try being more kind. Doing so can help reduce your anxious feelings and replace them with positive ones.

4. May Extend Your Lifespan

Some experts believe one of the keys to a long life is our social network. “What we call loneliness—the feeling that you have no one to turn to, that no one understands you—is a form of stress,” explains Health.com writer Ray Hainer . “And if it becomes chronic, it can wreak havoc on your blood vessels and heart.” With heart disease being the number one killer among Americans, the connection between improved heart health and avoiding stress contributes to a longer life.

Socializing with purpose also has healthy effects. “People who volunteer tend to experience fewer aches and pains,” writes Christine Carter in her book Raising Happiness; In Pursuit of Joyful Kids and Happier Parents. “People 55 and older who volunteer for two or more organizations have an impressive 44% lower likelihood of dying early, and that’s after sifting out every other contributing factor, including physical health, exercise, gender, habits like smoking, marital status and many more. This is a stronger effect than exercising four times a week or going to church.”

Looking for a new strategy for better health and happiness? Try kindness. Studies show that performing kind acts have a positive effect on everything from reducing depression and anxiety to longevity. “We all seek a path to happiness,” says Dr. Waguih William IsHak, a professor of psychiatry at Cedars-Sinai . “Practicing kindness toward others is one we know works.”

The surprisingly wonderful benefits of rental living

Tue, 25 Feb 2020 19:36:00 GMT

If you are considering moving into an apartment, you are not alone. Experts estimate there are just over 43 million renter-occupied housing units in the US. And while renters are renting for a variety of reasons, there are some common perks that renters enjoy.

Here are four of the most common benefits of rental living.

1. Location, location, location

Sometimes, the easiest way to live close to the communities you frequent isn’t to buy property, but to rent. “Renters can live virtually anywhere—a tiny apartment in Greenwich Village or a townhouse in Queens,” says professor of economics Teresa Ghilarducci . “Homeowners are more restricted to neighborhoods they can afford.”

There are certainly times when paying rent over is more expensive than paying a mortgage. For example, many renters will see their lease increase the moment their contract is up for renewal. But in some cases, experts say there are financial advantages to renting in desired locations rather than trying to buy property. “If you live in a market where you can rent an apartment for substantially less per month than you could own a home, you can invest the difference,” explains David Weliver , founder of Money Under 30. “The difference doesn’t have to be huge.”

Weliver presented an example like this: If you compare $1,000 rent per month versus a $1,300 mortgage payment on a comparable home, that generates $3,600 each year that you can save or invest. “And, unlike home equity, those savings are liquid,” added Weliver. “You can use them to build an emergency fund, pay down student loan debt, or fund a retirement account. None of which you can do with home equity.”

2. Awesome amenities

Most of us haven’t included installing an in-ground pool on our to-do list. But that doesn’t mean we wouldn’t enjoy having access to recreational amenities like a swimming pool, a fitness center, or tennis courts. And today’s rental properties are offering even more options to entice would-be renters.

Some of the more popular features include onsite laundry facilities or a washer and dryer within the unit. Many offer cable or satellite television and free Wi-Fi. Others offer fully-furnished units. And as a person just starting out on their own, having options for these types of services can help the transition to apartment living.

3. Flexible career options

The workplace model is changing, with more employees at varying job levels working from their homes. Experts estimate that almost half of the US workforce works remotely. But that also means employees are more mobile. And that is where the convenience of renting a home or apartment works well. Renting gives workers the freedom to move more frequently than they could otherwise. Additionally, some apartment communities offer amenities for workers. In some of our communities, for example, we offer dedicated workspaces, perfect for individuals who work remotely.

Have job, will travel. That’s an effective way to set the pace for job promotion or move to a better job opportunity should the need arise. “You need to be able to credibly leave a job to be well treated by employers,” says Ghilarducci . “Mobile workers can move for a pay raise or to make a career move.”

4. A sense of community

There are varying degrees of socializing among renters. You can be as social or reclusive as you choose; the fact remains that you are sharing common space with other people. Whether it’s the parking lot, the pool area, or the fitness center, apartment living offers a unique opportunity to befriend your neighbors.

“Apartment buildings draw an array of residents and visitors. Your neighbors, their families, their friends, their delivery people, and anyone offering an at-home service will pass through your shared entryway. Your children will learn to share a space with these people—and perhaps even open the door for them,” says Natalie Saaris , writing for Zillow. “While living in an apartment may deprive you of the privacy of a standalone home, the feeling of community may more than compensate for the loss.”

Whether your apartment is a temporary arrangement or a permanent decision, the benefits of apartment living offer pleasant and financially strategic opportunities for you.

Reasons why setting goals is a good thing

Fri, 24 Jan 2020 13:00:00 GMT

Don’t let New Year’s resolution failure fool you. Setting goals is a good thing.

Let’s talk about goals.

Wait! Not New Year’s resolutions. I mean regular, everyday goal setting; those goals that you can (and should) start at any time. Although around 80 percent of us fail to achieve our New Year’s resolutions, setting a goal—a SMART goal—will make you feel better. And in some cases, literally.

A SMART goal is a task based on something Specific, Meaningful, Achievable, Realistic, and Timely. And while resolutions may bite the dust two months after we set them in place, the truth is that almost half of us (40 to 45 percent) continue to make goals for ourselves each year.

We, as humans, struggle with following through on New Year’s resolutions. But the practice of continually setting goals is a good thing. Here are six reasons why.

Do you know how it feels to merely coast through life, where you find yourself simply reacting to things? When you target your energies into achieving a specific goal, you are forcing action.

“ Goal setting helps you align focus with behavior because you get feedback on your progress,” says Forbes contributor Jeff Boss . “The actions you take—or avoid—offer clues about your values, beliefs, challenges, strengths and weaknesses which allow you to course correct as necessary and reset your goal achievement strategy (and subsequently, your focus).”

Goals that truly make an impact are those that are specific and follow a timeline toward completion. For example, instead of making a goal to be thinner, a well-thought-out goal will include a series of smaller goals that encourage weight loss and are arranged over a month, a year, or two even years.

“ Think of your goal as the destination. Now think of each step you take toward that goal as a smaller yet attainable step to get you there,” explains Dave Richards , a performance and leadership coach. “If your goal is to launch a business someday, your smaller steps would include defining your products or services or getting funds to start up.”

There is no better feeling than one of accomplishment. And when you set attainable goals, your success at achieving those goals is an incredible boost to your self-esteem. Keep in mind the operative word here is “attainable.”

“By setting goals and achieving them, you send a signal to your brain that you are successful which builds confidence and pride in yourself and that helps build your self-esteem,” says Jennifer Silvershein . “We all love to feel accomplished and meeting or exceeding your goals does just that.”

By setting up a primary goal, which is your main objective, and secondary goals, which are the stepping stones that move you toward your primary goal, Silvershein believes “you can set yourself up for success with the right mindset and the right tools.”

This process of identifying a primary goal that’s supported by secondary goals boosts your self-image. But it can also stave off mild forms of depression. “ Setting goals and targets can sometimes help when a person is feeling demotivated,” reports Jayne Leonard . “However, it is important to make sure that goals are achievable, specific, and realistic.”

For instance, a goal to no longer be depressed may not be all that successful as a stand-alone goal. But setting a goal that is proven to help treat minor forms of depression, such as to eat two servings of fruits and vegetables every day or exercise daily, makes reducing or eliminating depression an added benefit to your primary goal, which may be losing twenty pounds. This brings us to the next benefit: your health.

Of Inc.com’s ten top New Year’s resolutions of 2019, five dealt with improving our health. So while we may not always follow through on those resolutions, they are certainly on our minds. In fact, out of the 2,000 people surveyed, 71 percent of them wanted to eat healthier in the coming year. Sixty-five percent of those surveyed planned to exercise more, and over half (54 percent) hoped to lose weight. Whether you are a fan of New Year’s resolutions or not, making conscious goals about lifestyle changes will have a positive impact on your overall health.

“Staying engaged in life as you age is essential for your health,” say experts at Harvard Health . “Goals should revolve around a purpose in your life: What matters to you now? What is important?” Once again, setting up a SMART goal will help connect your goals with a meaningful outcome within a specified amount of time. And when it comes to goals about your health, the end result feels great.

Let’s consider for a moment what the process of setting goals is doing. According to research by goal-setting theorists Edwin Locke and Gary Latham, goals not only affect behavior and work performance, but they also ignite a desire to put forth a higher and more persistent effort. And because with every action there’s a reaction, people around you are impacted by your efforts.

For example, if your goals are to be more productive and efficient at work and to manage your time better, you’ll likely return home sooner. Depending on what goals you’ve made regarding your habits at home, your family will benefit from the time you are able to spend with them. Perhaps you’ve made a goal to be more patient or a better listener. Those efforts impact others.

You will likely see similar positive effects if you have a goal to volunteer in your child’s school every month or plant a vegetable garden and share your harvest with neighbors. And as the cycle of goal-setting continues, you’ll be motivated to set more goals because of the positive feedback you receive from those who’ve benefited from your efforts. See? Win-win.

Don’t let the bad publicity surrounding resolutions fool you. Setting goals is a good thing. Nothing else is more effective and empowering than setting goals that improve your health, quality of life, focus, and contributions to the things you care about most. So let’s hear it for the new year and make it a goal to ensure it’s the best one ever.