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apartment living – West Parc Blog Just another Rent Cafe Blogs Sites site Wed, 15 Apr 2026 22:09:18 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=7.0.2 Convenient Living in Portland, Oregon: A Look at West Parc Apartments https://www.westparcatbethany.com/blog/2026/04/15/convenient-living-in-portland-oregon-a-look-at-west-parc-apartments/ Wed, 15 Apr 2026 21:54:00 +0000 https://www.westparcatbethany.com/blog/2026/04/15/convenient-living-in-portland-oregon-a-look-at-west-parc-apartments/ When searching for apartments in Portland, Oregon, it is not just about the apartment itself. The surrounding neighborhood plays a big role in how your day-to-day life feels. At West Parc Apartments, you are positioned in a location that supports both convenience and comfort for a wide range of lifestyles. With access to schools, shopping,…

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When searching for apartments in Portland, Oregon, it is not just about the apartment itself. The surrounding neighborhood plays a big role in how your day-to-day life feels. At West Parc Apartments, you are positioned in a location that supports both convenience and comfort for a wide range of lifestyles.

With access to schools, shopping, dining, and recreation nearby, West Parc offers a well-rounded living experience in one of Portland’s most sought-after areas.

1. Access to Well-Regarded Schools

Located in Bethany Village, the area is known for its strong school options, making it a great choice for those planning ahead. Having schools nearby helps simplify daily routines and keeps everything close to home.

The Bethany area has also received national recognition, being named one of the top 50 best places to live for families by Fortune in 2024.

2. Nearby Childcare and Everyday Support

Convenient access to childcare can make a big difference in your schedule. In the Bethany area, you will find options like BKids Daycare & Preschool, offering structured care and early learning close to home.

Having these resources nearby helps create a smoother daily routine and supports busy households.

3. Fitness and Recreation Close to Home

Staying active and finding time to recharge is easier when recreation is close by.

West Parc Apartments is across the street from Bethany Athletic Club, where you will find fitness facilities, aquatics, and a variety of programs for all ages. Whether it is a workout, swim lesson, or youth activity, having these options nearby adds flexibility to your schedule.

4. Shopping and Dining Within Reach

Living close to everyday essentials makes a noticeable difference.

West Parc is located near Bethany Village Shopping Centre, where you can pick up groceries at QFC, grab a quick meal, or enjoy a variety of local dining options. Keeping errands close to home helps free up time during the week.

5. Floor Plans That Fit Your Lifestyle

West Parc Apartments offers a range of layouts designed to meet different needs. Choose from studio, one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartment homes, whether you are looking for something simple and efficient or need more room to spread out.

Each apartment is designed with practical features like an in-unit washer and dryer and functional layouts that make everyday living feel easy. Residents can also enjoy community amenities including an onsite swimming pool and hot tub.

6. A Location That Brings It All Together

Bethany offers a mix of residential comfort and everyday convenience. With nearby parks, local businesses, and community spaces, the area provides a setting where you can settle in and feel connected.

At West Parc Apartments, everything from daily errands to weekend plans is within reach, helping your routine feel more manageable.

A Smart Choice in Bethany Village

If you are looking for apartments in Bethany, Oregon, West Parc Apartments offers a location that supports how you live. With access to schools, childcare, recreation, and shopping, it is a place where convenience and comfort come together.

Ready to Find Your Space?

Explore studio, one-, two-, and three-bedroom floor plans and find the layout that works for you. West Parc Apartments offers a variety of options designed to fit your lifestyle.

View floor plans and schedule your tour today.

Come see what makes West Parc feel like home.

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Stay Cool All Season: West Parc’s Guide to Summer Comfort https://www.westparcatbethany.com/blog/2025/07/30/stay-cool-all-season-west-parcs-guide-to-summer-comfort/ https://www.westparcatbethany.com/blog/2025/07/30/stay-cool-all-season-west-parcs-guide-to-summer-comfort/#respond Wed, 30 Jul 2025 20:54:00 +0000 https://www.westparcatbethany.com/blog/2025/07/30/stay-cool-all-season-west-parcs-guide-to-summer-comfort/ Summer is heating up in the Portland metro area, and at West Parc Apartments in Bethany, Oregon, there’s no better place to enjoy long, sunny days in comfort and style. With easy access to Hillsboro, Beaverton, and all the charm of the Bethany neighborhood, our community blends relaxed suburban living with convenient amenities—perfect for enjoying…

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Summer is heating up in the Portland metro area, and at West Parc Apartments in Bethany, Oregon, there’s no better place to enjoy long, sunny days in comfort and style. With easy access to Hillsboro, Beaverton, and all the charm of the Bethany neighborhood, our community blends relaxed suburban living with convenient amenities—perfect for enjoying everything the season has to offer.

Whether you're already a resident or looking for a new home, this guide will help you make the most of summer living at West Parc.

Stay Cool with Community Amenities

At West Parc Apartments, summer living is made easier with on-site amenities designed for comfort, recreation, and wellness:

  • Cool off in the outdoor pool: Take a dip in our sparkling outdoor pool to escape the rising temperatures. It’s the perfect place to relax on a hot day, whether you’re swimming laps or lounging with a cold drink.
  • Stay active in the indoor fitness center: If the heat is too much for outdoor workouts, our fully equipped indoor fitness center is a great way to keep your routine going while staying cool.
  • Enjoy time outside—at the right time: Try to enjoy the outdoors early in the morning or later in the evening when the sun is less intense. It’s a great time for a walk through nearby Bethany Village or a jog around the neighborhood.

Summer Apartment Living Tips for Staying Comfortable

The Pacific Northwest has seen hotter summers in recent years, and staying cool in your apartment is essential. Here are some practical ways to beat the heat while living at West Parc:

  • Open windows in the morning and evening: Let fresh air in during the cooler hours. Then, close blinds or curtains during peak sun to keep the indoor temperature down.
  • Block sunlight with blackout curtains or reflective shades: These can significantly reduce indoor heat buildup, especially in west-facing units.
  • Use breathable bedding: Light cotton sheets, cooling pillows, and moisture-wicking pillowcases can help you sleep more comfortably during warmer nights.
  • Hydrate consistently: Keep a water bottle nearby throughout the day. Staying hydrated helps regulate your body temperature and avoid heat-related fatigue.
  • Dress for the heat: Opt for lightweight, breathable fabrics. Linen and cotton are good choices when temperatures soar.

Community Tips & Summer Activities Near West Parc

One of the best parts of living at West Parc is the easy access to local summer activities. Whether you’re looking for family fun, pet-friendly tips, or things to do on a hot day, the Bethany area has you covered:

  • Beat the heat with indoor fun: When it’s too hot to be outside, enjoy a laid-back evening at Bethany Public House. They host trivia nights that are a great way to stay cool, meet neighbors, and enjoy a little friendly competition.
  • Cool off at the Bethany Village fountain: Just steps away, the Bethany Village fountain is a popular spot for kids to splash around and enjoy the water. Parents can relax nearby with a coffee or smoothie from one of the local cafes.
  • Check out local gyms for free trials or day passes: Many nearby fitness centers offer free trial days or discounted passes—perfect for trying out new workouts in a cool, air-conditioned space.
  • Be careful when walking your dog: Pavement can get dangerously hot for paws. Try walking your dog in the early morning or after sunset, and bring water for both you and your pet. Grassy areas nearby make great shaded routes.

Thinking of Moving? Schedule a Tour of West Parc Apartments

If you're exploring new living options this season, West Parc Apartments summer living offers a balance of comfort, convenience, and community. With thoughtfully designed studio, 1, 2 & 3 bedroom apartment homes, access to everyday essentials, and a location that puts Beaverton, Hillsboro, and Portland within reach, it’s an ideal place to call home. Whether you're lounging by the pool, walking to nearby shops, or staying cool in your modern apartment, summer activities near West Parc are easy to enjoy. Contact us or schedule a tour to learn more.

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Five Easy Ways to Soundproof Your Apartment https://www.westparcatbethany.com/blog/2024/12/06/five-easy-ways-to-soundproof-your-apartment/ https://www.westparcatbethany.com/blog/2024/12/06/five-easy-ways-to-soundproof-your-apartment/#respond Fri, 06 Dec 2024 23:40:00 +0000 http://www.westparcatbethany.com/blog/?p=179 Apartment living has its pros and cons, and one of the downsides to sharing a building with others is that it can be pretty noisy. Have you ever sat at night, trying to relax, yet still able to hear your neighbor’s loud music playing from down the hall? Chances are you have. Or maybe, the…

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Apartment living has its pros and cons, and one of the downsides to sharing a building with others is that it can be pretty noisy. Have you ever sat at night, trying to relax, yet still able to hear your neighbor’s loud music playing from down the hall? Chances are you have. Or maybe, the cars driving by your window are too loud for you to relax? Any of this sound familiar?

The good news is that you don’t have to put up with noise that you aren’t creating. There are a few easy and inexpensive things that you can do to soundproof your apartment and enjoy the peace and quiet that you deserve.

 

Five easy ways to soundproof your apartment.

 

  1. Fill some bookshelves: Full shelves have long been a soundproofing technique. Of course, you want to consider filling them with materials that absorb sound (such as some nice thick books). The larger the bookshelf, the more noise will be blocked from getting in (and getting out). Not a lot of books? Consider storing your linens and extra blankets on the shelves.
     
  2. Put down some rugs: Better yet, put down some rugs and thick rug pads. They will help to reduce the noise that comes up from the apartment below you. Even if it’s your own noise, rugs will help to muffle sound and cut the echos.
     
  3. Hang curtains: Putting up some thick drapes or curtains will help to reduce the noise coming in from outside. You may want to not only hang curtains in front of the windows but consider hanging one in front of the door too. Make sure that you choose a drape or curtain that is made of heavy material and not a light one (a light curtain won’t go very far in reducing the noise).
     
  4. Window inserts: If the noise outside is really loud (maybe you live near a corner, with lots of traffic stopping or in a busy city), then you might want to install window inserts. Window inserts have proven to reduce the outside noise volume by 50%. They are simple, glass, or acrylic panes that you install over your existing windows, and they are airtight. An excellent way to quickly soundproof a bedroom!
     
  5. White noise: If all else fails, you can always resort to a noise machine or a good old fan. White noise has proven to help babies sleep more soundly, and the right noise machine can do wonders in blocking sounds out. No machine or fan? There are now many white noise apps that you can find in your app store for free!

 

Soundproofing your apartment is not only about reducing the outside noise, but it’s also about being a good neighbor yourself. Maybe you have a noisy dog, a new baby, or love to listen to rock music. You want to be able to relax and enjoy yourself without disturbing your neighbors (and vice versa).

With these easy (and cheap!) ideas, there’s no reason why you should not consider making your apartment quieter!

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5 Money Questions to Ask the Landlord Before You Rent An Apartment https://www.westparcatbethany.com/blog/2024/11/06/5-money-questions-to-ask-the-landlord-before-you-rent-an-apartment/ https://www.westparcatbethany.com/blog/2024/11/06/5-money-questions-to-ask-the-landlord-before-you-rent-an-apartment/#respond Wed, 06 Nov 2024 18:53:00 +0000 http://www.westparcatbethany.com/blog/?p=161 When you're planning a move, there seems to be an endless checklist of "to-do" items and searching for an apartment can get overwhelming. It's easy to forget or overlook some of the simplest but most important things! Making sure you have the finer details of your finances in order when it comes to your new…

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When you're planning a move, there seems to be an endless checklist of "to-do" items and searching for an apartment can get overwhelming. It's easy to forget or overlook some of the simplest but most important things!

Making sure you have the finer details of your finances in order when it comes to your new apartment will help you avoid surprises and secure a new apartment that is comfortably within your budget.

Here are 5 questions to ask the landlord before you rent an apartment.
 

1. How much is the monthly rent?

OK, this may seem obvious, but it's important. Don't assume that you know the monthly rent because of something you saw online. The rent for apartments within a complex can vary a lot based on location, floor plan, and other factors like recent updates or renovations.

When you figure out which unit you like best, ask about the monthly rent for that particular unit – including the floor its on and the position it's in in the complex.

If you have pets, you should also inquire if there's an additional monthly pet rent fee.
 

2. What does (and doesn't) the rent include?

Different apartment communities have different policies when it comes to amenities. Make sure you know what is and is not included for categories such as:

  • Parking
  • Utilities
  • Laundry
  • Gym access
  • Common area use/maintenance
  • Trash and recycling services

Also, be sure to ask if there are shared community fees that get added to your monthly rent bill. Some communities will divide up the utilities for shared use spaces like the pool and gym area between residents each month which can add up!
 

3. What is the required deposit?

Apartment deposits vary wildly because of a variety of factors. Everything from state and local laws to property management company policies to your personal credit history can affect how much you have to pay up front to rent an apartment.

Ask what is required for a security deposit, damage deposit, and (if you have a furry friend) a pet deposit. Also, ask how it's applied (i.e. is it held and refunded after 12 months or applied to your last month of residency).
 

4. What is an average utility bill?

If your utilities are not included in your rent, then ask how much an average utility bill will be for the unit you're interested in. Many properties will have this type of information available, but you may need to reach out to the utility company if they don't.
 

5. What are the ways you can pay rent?

An increasing number of apartment communities are offering online payment options that allow you to pay rent with a debit card, credit card, or e-check. Some even offer automatic bill pay so you never pay late. You should also ask if there are processing fees for any of the available payment methods. This will help you avoid those little fees that can really add up over time.

Don't be shy about asking these financial questions when you're apartment hunting. It may feel a little uncomfortable to talk about money, but it's important for your financial health. Apartment leasing staff expect and are ready to answer these types of questions so you have all the information you need to make an informed decision.

 

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Where to Store a Bike In Your Apartment https://www.westparcatbethany.com/blog/2024/11/04/where-to-store-a-bike-in-your-apartment/ https://www.westparcatbethany.com/blog/2024/11/04/where-to-store-a-bike-in-your-apartment/#respond Mon, 04 Nov 2024 19:01:00 +0000 http://www.westparcatbethany.com/blog/?p=134 Using a bike for transportation is becoming an increasingly popular way to get around. Bike riding provides exercise and is an environmentally friendly means of traveling from place to place.   With so many bikes on the road these days, riders are looking for ways to store them. Those who live in apartment complexes tend…

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Using a bike for transportation is becoming an increasingly popular way to get around. Bike riding provides exercise and is an environmentally friendly means of traveling from place to place.

 

With so many bikes on the road these days, riders are looking for ways to store them. Those who live in apartment complexes tend to have difficulty finding a safe, appropriate, and acceptable place to keep their bikes

 

Things to consider

 

If you’re a bike rider that lives in an apartment complex, you’ve come across the basic problem of storage.

 

There are a handful of things to consider that will determine the best places in your apartment to store your bike, such as the layout, the size, how many bikes you are trying to store, and if your apartment has any rules regarding bike storage.

 

Bike Racks and Stands

 

Using bike racks or stands in an apartment complex is not unheard of and there are actually a number of ways to make them work.

 

  • Bike Stand

 

Bike stands can be a great option if you have one or more bikes to store in your apartment. The stand simply leans against the wall and can hold between one and four bikes, making it perfect for family bikes or roommates.

 

The downside is that, due to the fact that the stand literally sits on the ground and leans against the wall, you’re going to need a lot of empty floor and wall space to use it. Your best bet with a bike stand is going to be finding a large, bare wall near the door.

 

If your apartment layout doesn’t have what you need to easily use a stand, you’ll probably want to look for a different option.

 

  • Bike Column

 

A bike column works well for one to two bikes and doesn’t need to be drilled or screwed in, making it a good option for those who might want to change things up.

 

The bike column simply extends to lock in place from the floor to the ceiling, with support arms on the column to hold your bike. It’s a fairly easy set-up that allows you the freedom to move the column to a different area whenever you want.

 

  • Wall Hanger

 

Many apartment dwellers appreciate wall hangers and how they keep the often already minimal floor space of the apartment, clear. With a wall hanger, your bike will hang from the top tube, with arms that adjust to open up space between the wall and bike. Drilling is required for installation of a wall hanger, so make sure to check on the rules of your apartment complex before going this route.

 

  • Wall Bike Rack

 

A wall bike rack is a space-saving option that is a mix between a wall hanger and a bike stand. You will drill the rack into the wall and then store the bikes on the rack by the wheels.

 

Some people use their wall-hung bikes as part of their apartment aesthetic. In true millennial fashion, you can really make the bike work for you.

 

  • Apartment Rooms for Bike Storage

 

Depending on the size and layout of your apartment, it might just be the best idea to use some sort of room or area of your apartment to keep your bike.

 

  • Porch

 

Some apartments come with a porch or balcony, which provides an excellent storage option. Keeping your bike on the porch really frees up space inside, so many apartment dwellers like to use these areas.

 

If you decide to store your bike on the porch, consider keeping it covered in order to protect it from the elements. Unless your apartment is on an upper level, you will want to get a bike lock in order to prevent theft.

 

Other things to consider when storing your bike on the porch are ensuring that the bike is not blocking the door, and also checking your apartment complex’s rules to make sure they allow bike storage there.

 

 

  • Coat Closet

 

Not everyone will appreciate the option to store their bike in the coat closet, because, frankly, they want that storage space. However, the coat closet does offer a couple of great benefits that you may want to consider.

 

  1. The coat closet is near the door allowing simple access for getting and putting away your bike.
  2. Keeping it in the coat closet means that it’s out of sight. You don’t need to worry about having a bike in the middle of your apartment, hanging on the wall, or taking up other valuable space.

 

  • Laundry Room

 

If you have a laundry room in your apartment, it could provide the perfect location for your bike. Kept away from the heart of your home, this private area allows you to store your bike on the floor or even on the wall with a wall rack or hanger.

 

  • Garage

 

Most people who live in apartment complexes aren’t lucky enough to have a garage, but there are some who do. Obviously, if you have one, that’s going to trump every other suggestion and be the best place to store your bike. Honestly, don’t even think about keeping your bike in your apartment if you have a garage.

 

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How to Screen Roommates for Your New Apartment https://www.westparcatbethany.com/blog/2024/10/09/how-to-screen-roommates-for-your-new-apartment/ https://www.westparcatbethany.com/blog/2024/10/09/how-to-screen-roommates-for-your-new-apartment/#respond Wed, 09 Oct 2024 18:54:00 +0000 http://www.westparcatbethany.com/blog/?p=122 Living in a conveniently located apartment can come at a cost, one that many people look to roommates to help them pay each month. Finding a roommate is always challenging, but finding a roommate to share an apartment with is even more daunting. Not every person is compatible with your personality or your way of…

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Living in a conveniently located apartment can come at a cost, one that many people look to roommates to help them pay each month. Finding a roommate is always challenging, but finding a roommate to share an apartment with is even more daunting. Not every person is compatible with your personality or your way of living, posing additional challenges when it’s time to select someone to share apartment living with.

Use the Right Sources to Advertise Your Need for a Roommate

You should find a listing source that is reputable and popular enough to create a buzz with the community. The best listing sources vary from one person to another.

It’s a good idea to create an ad with a couple of different sources. Age is a big factor that determines the best sources to use to find a roommate. Many people use sites like Craigslist, social media, and word-of-mouth to find potential roommates.

Use a Rental Preparation Service

Has the potential roommate ever been evicted? Has the person been taken to civil court? Do they have a criminal record? All of these important questions and many others are answered when using a rental preparation service to help you weed out the good from the bad potential roommates.

Costs to use this service vary but it’s a small price to pay for the peace of mind that comes when you know you've selected the best person to live in your apartment.

Ask Lots of Questions

Conduct interviews with potential roommates before choosing someone to share your apartment with. An interview with a potential roommate can be informal, although it’s important that you ask plenty of questions that help determine if you're compatible.

Ask any questions you choose to get a better feel of the person whom you are considering as a roommate. Create a list of questions ahead of the interview so as not to forget any of the important information you want to ask. Save space on the list to write down answers from each person you interview.

Check Out Social Media

Most of us use social media not only to connect with friends and family, but with businesses, celebrities, and services we like. Nearly 75% of the world’s population has at least one social media account.

So, it goes without saying that social media is a big part of our lives. It’s also a great place to start when selecting a roommate. You can learn a plethora of information about a person by visiting their social media pages and viewing the type of content they share, their friends, and other information.

The Bottom Line

Choosing a roommate takes minimal time and effort, but the rewards of your hard work pay off greatly when all is said and done. Don't choose the first person who expresses interest in your apartment.

This is an easy way to secure things that go wrong from the start. Use the information above in your quest to find a great roommate. In no time, you'll find the perfect person to share your apartment home with.

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Furniture Arrangement Ideas for a Small Living Room https://www.westparcatbethany.com/blog/2024/10/02/furniture-arrangement-ideas-for-a-small-living-room/ https://www.westparcatbethany.com/blog/2024/10/02/furniture-arrangement-ideas-for-a-small-living-room/#respond Wed, 02 Oct 2024 17:24:00 +0000 http://www.westparcatbethany.com/blog/?p=98 Furniture Arrangement Ideas for a Small Living Room It can be challenging to decorate a small living room space adequately. The goal is to create a dedicated area that's airy, yet cozy and inviting, and that doesn't feel too "busy" or confined. Below are some furniture arrangement ideas and recommendations that will help maximize space…

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Furniture Arrangement Ideas for a Small Living Room
It can be challenging to decorate a small living room space adequately. The goal is to create a dedicated area that's airy, yet cozy and inviting, and that doesn't feel too "busy" or confined. Below are some furniture arrangement ideas and recommendations that will help maximize space and add a personal touch to this unique area of your home.

Work Those Overlooked Spaces: It can be easy to ignore walls and high ceilings since, of course, you can't place any furnishings here. These areas, however, can help you create an illusion that will visually expand the space of your living area with minimal effort.

Investing in a good-quality wallpaper and papering just a wall or two of your living room will add texture and dimension. Place a large mirror upwards and center to add more depth to these walls by drawing the eye to a specific point and diffusing the light.

Consider These Furniture Tips: If new furniture is in the budget, try the following tips for selecting pieces that physically and visually make a room larger. As with any small area, the secret to adding visual space is to give the room a lighter look and feel overall. Darker wall colors can make a room feel more boxed-in, and larger, deep-toned furniture pieces are no exception.

Go Lightly: Lighter colors can add dimension to a room, and it's best to seek out pieces with legs since the space at the bottom gives the illusion of extra floor space.

Glass tableware pieces are also excellent choices for small living areas since they add more visual space and are typically more compact than their wood-grained counterparts. Consider purchasing a glass coffee table since this particular furniture piece is such a powerful focal point for any living room. The transparency of the piece will definitely add much-needed visual depth to an area that is often crowded.

Go "Armless": Cumbersome chairs can shrink the size of your living room, so look for armless seats or those without a backrest. See-through chairs add a modern flair to your decor, and they're typically easy to clean.

Rework Your Walls: Again, the key to adding more visual space to your living room is a lighter color scheme, so go neutral with all colors to create a more airish space. These colors reflect light more effectively, which adds dimension to your living space.

Experiment with Color: Grays, nudes, and pale pinks and blues are just a few of the options out there, so don't feel that you have to stick with basic white. A festive photo grouping or a collection of mirrors can further draw the eye upward to give the appearance of added space. Be creative with groupings. For an unexpected touch, you can even place a mirror at the center of a small cluster of themed paintings.

Draw the Eye Vertically: To continue expanding your space in those areas where you can't place furniture or accent items, try playing with your space to draw the eye vertically, rather than horizontally. Perhaps the best way to accomplish this is by selecting lengthy draperies or vertical wall hangings or mirrors. These days, many rectangular mirrors have hardware on both horizontal and vertical ends.

A Final Word: Your home is certainly your haven, and the size of a room should never deter your creative flow. Armed with these tips, you can create a special living room that maximizes your living space while encouraging more personalized expression. Keep it simple, keep it fresh, and have fun creating a relaxing living area.
 

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What You Should Know When Transferring Apartments in the Same Building https://www.westparcatbethany.com/blog/2024/09/26/what-you-should-know-when-transferring-apartments-in-the-same-building/ https://www.westparcatbethany.com/blog/2024/09/26/what-you-should-know-when-transferring-apartments-in-the-same-building/#respond Thu, 26 Sep 2024 23:30:00 +0000 http://www.westparcatbethany.com/blog/?p=89 After living in the same apartment for years, it’s only natural that you want a change of scenery. You don’t have to go through the hassle of researching other apartment buildings to find a new place. If you’re satisfied with the building and neighborhood you reside in, switching to another apartment is just what you…

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After living in the same apartment for years, it’s only natural that you want a change of scenery. You don’t have to go through the hassle of researching other apartment buildings to find a new place. If you’re satisfied with the building and neighborhood you reside in, switching to another apartment is just what you need. However, there are a few things that you should know first before doing so.

Continue reading to learn what you should know when transferring apartments in the same building.
 

Inform Your Landlord

Before anything, you must notify your landlord that you’re looking to transfer apartments. Maybe you’ve found the best apartment on the floor below or there’s one available for a discounted price. Either way, it’s important that you learn what’s required for you to transfer.

For instance, the landlord may tell you that you’ll have to amend your current lease or be screened again. Keep in mind that the procedure you go through depends on what building you’re in. Furthermore, make sure to ask your landlord about any difference in price.
 

Ask To Be Put On A Waiting List

Sometimes, there may not be an apartment for you to move into just yet. If so, ask your landlord to put you on a waiting list. This list is what ensures that you’re next to move into the soon-to-be-vacant apartment. Before that, make sure that you confirm with your landlord that it is merely a list. You may end up changing your mind as you wait, so if you want your name taken off the list, you won’t be charged an extra deposit.
 

Follow Up

If you have decided to keep your name on the waiting list, it’s in your best interest to contact the landlord every so often to ensure you’re still on it. Also, don’t forget to ask how much longer you’ll have to wait and inform them whether or not you’re still interested.
 

You Have To Set Up Your Utilities

Regardless if you’re moving to an apartment that’s right down the hall or one that’s five floors up, you have to start new accounts for the utilities. You may not have to do it at first, but once you have the final confirmation that you’re moving to a different apartment, you must contact them in advance. It may be tedious, however, there’s no getting around it.
 

Tell People Your New Address

Although the address of the building won’t change, your apartment number will. Obviously, you want to tell your friends and family what apartment you’re residing in. However, you’ll need to inform other important people of your new address as well. You’ll need to let the post office know, so you don’t miss any of your mail. You also need to inform your credit card companies as well so they can update your information.

As you can see, transferring apartments is about the same as moving to another building. The only difference is that it’s less of a hassle and you don’t have to waste money on a professional moving company. However, transferring to another apartment might not be for everyone, so be sure to think long and hard before making a decision.

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Making Reasonable Accommodation Requests https://www.westparcatbethany.com/blog/2024/09/18/making-reasonable-accommodation-requests/ https://www.westparcatbethany.com/blog/2024/09/18/making-reasonable-accommodation-requests/#respond Wed, 18 Sep 2024 23:27:00 +0000 http://www.westparcatbethany.com/blog/?p=83 If you are living with a disability and seeking to rent an apartment, it may be necessary to request that the property owner make needed modifications that will allow you to successfully navigate your living environment. This is known as a request for reasonable accommodation and consideration of such requests is a legal requirement established…

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If you are living with a disability and seeking to rent an apartment, it may be necessary to request that the property owner make needed modifications that will allow you to successfully navigate your living environment. This is known as a request for reasonable accommodation and consideration of such requests is a legal requirement established by the Fair Housing Act.

According to the US Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), a reasonable accommodation is a “change, exception, or adjustment to a rule, policy, practice, or service that may be necessary for a person with a disability to have an equal opportunity to use and enjoy a dwelling, including public and common use spaces.” Examples of reasonable accommodations could include things such as creating an accessible parking space, providing an apartment on the lowest level, making bathroom modifications such as adding grip bars or allowing a service animal even if pets are not allowed.

There are several ways to go about making reasonable accommodation requests. Requesting accommodation in writing is preferable when possible because it creates a way to permanently document the request and can be referred back to in the event that clarification is needed. Some property owner’s may provide you with a form to make a request for reasonable accommodation, but this is not legally required. The written request can also be a note or letter from you specifying what types of accommodation would be helpful to increase your ability to reside in the desired location.

Of course, there may be circumstances where it is not possible to ask for reasonable accommodation in writing. Because there is no provision in the law specifying how the request for accommodation be made, a verbal request is just as valid as a written one. However you choose to communicate your accommodation request, make it as clear as possible to minimize confusion and expedite the property owner’s ability to understand and respond in a timely manner.

The Fair Housing Act specifies that it is the tenant’s responsibility to make a request of the property owner for the needed accommodations. Of course, if you choose, it is also acceptable for you to have someone else make the accommodation request as your representative. Once you or your representative make a request for reasonable accommodation, the property owner is required by law to give your request prompt consideration. However, the property owner is allowed time to research and request additional information about the request. Ignoring a request for reasonable accommodation is a violation of the Fair Housing Act.

If you have a disability, knowing your rights as specified in the Fair Housing Act can be very beneficial as you initiate the process of requesting reasonable accommodation from a property owner. Being informed and prepared puts you in an ideal position to effectively advocate for your needs. Making a clear request for reasonable accommodations and keeping the lines of communication open with potential landlords could ultimately lead to a mutually beneficial arrangement that is advantageous for all parties.

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How to Deal with a Bad Neighbor https://www.westparcatbethany.com/blog/2024/09/05/how-to-deal-with-a-bad-neighbor/ https://www.westparcatbethany.com/blog/2024/09/05/how-to-deal-with-a-bad-neighbor/#respond Thu, 05 Sep 2024 23:22:00 +0000 http://www.westparcatbethany.com/blog/?p=74 No matter if you are renting or buying, nobody likes to deal with a bad neighbor. Whether they are blasting loud music late at night or waking up your children, there are things that a neighbor shouldn’t do. However, at some point in life, you may find yourself stuck with a problematic neighbor, and if…

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No matter if you are renting or buying, nobody likes to deal with a bad neighbor.

Whether they are blasting loud music late at night or waking up your children, there are things that a neighbor shouldn’t do. However, at some point in life, you may find yourself stuck with a problematic neighbor, and if so, how do you even begin to approach them about your issues?

 

Ways to deal with bad neighbors.

 

Communicate. The first thing you should do is talk to them. If you share your concerns with them before going and spreading it to other people, they are more likely to work with you to solve the problem. Try going over and asking them, “Do you mind turning down the music after this certain time?” or “Hi there, I've noticed you leave your trash cans in my yard.” Whatever they do, start with asking them.

Now, if they are rude and refuse to compromise, there are a few things you can do. If you are renting, check your lease, because more often than not, there is a section that may address your problems. Many leases address noise and have a cut-off time for music. If the neighbor is blasting music after 10:00 PM and the noise cut off time is 10:00 PM, you can talk about it with your realtor or landlord.

 

A lot of neighborhoods have some laws as well. Even if there is no landlord to follow through with your issue, most places don’t allow sound after a specific time if it can be avoided.

 

You can try talking to the other neighbors that are not bothering you, to see if they have the same issues with that neighbor. Do not try to insult the neighbor or spread rumors.

This can make the neighbor upset, and they may do more things in an attempt to bother you, and this time on purpose.

Remember, you can’t control their animals or children. If their pets or kids are loud and disturbing you, there isn’t much you can do about it. You can ask them to keep a tighter leash, but a lot of parents do not like being told what to do, and more than likely, this will not change. It would be best if you did not blame their animals or children for anything because they don’t know any better.

 

Try taking it to the authorities.

 

If the above steps do not work, start gathering data and evidence on the things they are doing. When you have gathered enough evidence of their wrongdoings, you can take it up with authorities. Usually, this is a temporary fix, but it can work if the neighbors cooperate with authorities and not you. You should definitely try to talk, and take the path of least resistance before you get higher authorities involved.

The nicer that you are about all of it, the more likely it will be that your neighbors will cooperate with you.

If they have something on your property, kindly ask them if you can move it for them, this can help if they do not want to move it themselves, even if it gives you more work.

 

If all else fails.

 

If you are really irritated with what is happening, and you want to push their buttons the same way they do yours, you can consider fighting back in a non-harmful way.

 

For example, if their trash bins are on your property, you can consider making a mess by tipping them over onto their property; this can be blamed on the wind. This method is not recommended since it will probably just escalate things. However, if being nice didn't work, and going to the authorities didn’t work, you may have to take it into your own hands.

Be sure that you never do anything worse than what they are already doing. If you do things worse than them, that will make you the instigator.

If you plan to get revenge, do it in a way that one, you won’t get noticed, and two, it is not as bad as the offensive things that they do themselves.

 

If absolutely none of these methods work, you will have to let it go or move to a new location. If your neighbors refuse to do anything no matter your efforts, consider meditation to help calm you down, so you do not get angry. Or consider just finding a new place to live, hopefully, this time with better neighbors.

It may be a good idea to talk to the neighbors of your potential new place because they can give you a feel of it before you move in. Some might even tell you of their bad neighbors and why you shouldn’t move in. These are just a few of the methods for dealing with a crappy neighbor.

 

No matter what they are doing, try to keep a cool head about it, when you get angry and lash out, it will only put you at a disadvantage. Keep that in mind.

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