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.

The post 5 Money Questions to Ask the Landlord Before You Rent An Apartment appeared first on West Parc Blog.

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.

The post Where to Store a Bike In Your Apartment appeared first on West Parc Blog.

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.
 

The post Furniture Arrangement Ideas for a Small Living Room appeared first on West Parc Blog.

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.

The post What You Should Know When Transferring Apartments in the Same Building appeared first on West Parc Blog.

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.

The post Making Reasonable Accommodation Requests appeared first on West Parc Blog.

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.

The post How to Deal with a Bad Neighbor appeared first on West Parc Blog.

Keep it Clean

The main thing landlords associate with pet owners is lingering pet odor. If the odor remains after you move out, some (or all!) of your apartment security deposit might disappear while your landlord tries to get rid of the bad smell. But you don't have to get rid of your pet to avoid pet odor.

Instead, work to maintain a higher standard of cleanliness. This means vacuuming weekly, cleaning litter boxes and bird cages frequently, cleaning up spills and depositing waste as quickly as possible. There are lots of products on the market that are explicitly geared towards pet owners; whatever cleaning products you like, use them frequently to avoid accumulating odors.

Hair

Pet hair is another common complaint by landlords. Limit this by vacuuming often, and by changing air filters at least once a month. Consider putting an extra filter on ventilation ducts to catch pet hair. Also, install register filters to avoid pet hair getting into the duct system.

Ask for Permission

Sure, you think of your small pet like family, but your landlord doesn't. Many renters make the mistake of not informing their landlord about smaller pets, like cats, rabbits, or caged animals. If a landlord suddenly discovers a secret pet, you risk getting fined, losing your apartment security deposit, or even get evicted. Most landlords will appreciate tenants who are upfront about their pets. Don't forget to do a walk through with the landlord before moving in as well. You don't want to be charged for scratch marks from a previous owner's pet.

Take Responsibility for Your Pet

Mistakes happen, and sometimes a pet will be a pet and scratch or bite something they really shouldn't have. If your pet damages the apartment you live in, don't try to hide the damage from your landlord. Instead, tell the landlord right away, make sure you offer to pay for the damage and get it fixed as soon as possible. This way, there is much less chance of your landlord finding costly damages at the end of your lease and keeping your full apartment security deposit as a result.

Follow the Rules

Ask your landlord if there are specific leashing rules you should follow or pet designated areas on the property that you can use. Knowing the landlord's rules beforehand will make them much easier to follow and avoid risking your apartment security deposit.

Take Care of Your Pet

Some pets are more easily bored than others. It's important to keep in mind that usually only pets that are bored or unsettled gnaw or scratch up doors or carpets, putting apartment security deposits in jeopardy. Make these behaviors less likely by making sure your pet gets enough exercise and that they aren't left alone for hours at a time.

Look for Pet-Friendly Features

Avoid carpeted apartments if you can. If you choose an apartment with carpet, make sure it has a sealed carpet pad that is glued to the floor. If the carpet is stapled to the floor, one pet accident can be enough to soak urine into the carpet pad and cause lingering odor. Sealed wood floors will also lock out pet odors. Even if your pet doesn't usually scratch, once is enough to damage a door and put your apartment security deposit at risk. Consider attaching lucite door panels to wood doors your pet might scratch, using removable adhesive strips.

In Closing

Having a pet makes your life richer. If you follow the tips above, you'll hopefully be able to keep your apartment security deposit.

The post Pet Owners: Protect Your Apartment Security Deposit appeared first on West Parc Blog.

Even if you’ve just joined our community, use these ideas to help make your new apartment feel like home.

Accent Furniture Pieces With a Splash of Color

Accent furniture are smaller pieces of furniture- things like an end table, small chair, a small chest or desk. You can utilize accent furniture throughout the common spaces in your apartment home to have a larger piece of color.

Accent furniture can add color into your space without overwhelming your space. Using them as contrast pieces helps to break up the monotony from room to room. You can find a lot of different pieces at nearby stores like Target or Home Goods that are cost-effective. Don’t forget to take measurements to make sure that it will fit!

Throw Pillows, Curtains & Rugs

Once you’ve chosen your accent furniture, go to town with throw pillows, area rugs, and curtains! There are many color and pattern options on sites like Amazon, Overstock, and WayFair to go with every aesthetic. If you want some inspiration, go to West Parc’s lounge area! This is a great pllace to read, connect with friends and neighbors, and relax, but not only that- they’re always decorated perfectly. Why not bring your favorite parts of your community into your own apartment?
 

Floral Arrangements

Floral arrangements are a perfect way to add a splash of color to any room. Anything from peonies to red sunflowers, tulips to everything in-between; flowers lift our spirits and brighten our day. Added benefit? These colorful blooms are great at leaving light fragrance throughout your home.

If flowers aren’t your thing, try indoor plants to add a fresh aesthetic to your apartment home. If you have pets, don’t forget to check if the plants that you choose are poisonous. There are a ton of pet friendly plant options. 

Artwork

Artwork is a fantastic way to add color to your apartment home. Fun pieces are a great addition to add to a blank wall so it immediately draws the eye. The options are endless- you can hang famous prints, your own art, your kids’ art, phrases, basically anything you’d like!

One awesome idea is to create a gallery wall- incorporating several pieces of work into a single arrangement. You can add in photos of your family and pets that you have printed on canvas size prints to hang. Personal photos are perfect because they have meaning to you and this is your home!

Removable Wallpaper

Over the last couple of years, removable wallpaper has proliferated the interior design space. It’s incredibly easy to hang and remove (keep your security deposit) and it makes the perfect addition to an office or bedroom wall. 

Add Shelving Units

This kills two birds with one stone- you get more storage in your apartment home and you get extra decorating space. Utilizing a shelving unit against one wall in your apartment will offer a great way to store books, decorative items, and plants, but it creates a statement without making permanent changes. 

Bringing color into your apartment home doesn’t have to be as permanent like paint. You can change with the seasons, if you prefer.

The post How to Brighten Up your Apartment Paint-Free appeared first on West Parc Blog.

Getting along with neighbors is one of the biggest concerns of living in an apartment complex. Whether you're outgoing or introverted, these basic guidelines will help you address most situations.

Be a Friendly Neighbor

A neighbor is slightly more than an acquaintance and slightly less than a friend. You aren't required to interact, but a friendly greeting makes things less awkward for everyone.

Don't be afraid to introduce yourself when you get the chance. Smile, say hello, and tell them your name.

Some neighbors will be happy to talk, lend items, and even come over for dinner. If the relationship starts to blossom, you might find yourself part of a social circle. You could organize potlucks, set up playdates for your kids, or offer to watch someone's dogs when they're on vacation.

Although a friendly neighbor relationship can be very rewarding, understand that some people value their privacy. They might not want to talk or spend time together.

Be respectful of your neighbors' wishes. There's also nothing wrong with valuing your own privacy; just be polite and kind whenever you interact with the other people in your building.

Be a Responsible Neighbor

Your neighborly responsibilities are outlined in your lease. Getting along with neighbors usually means sticking to these terms. Pick up after your pets, clean your porch and entryway, and keep the noise down after curfew.

If you're planning a noisy event, let your neighbors know. Noise is a big deal for some people; they might have a medical condition, small children, or very sensitive ears. Warn them before you throw a large party; this courtesy gives them a chance to prepare.

The unofficial responsibilities of a neighbor are all matters of attentiveness. You aren't required to monitor other people's property, but speak up if you see something unusual. An open door at a strange time of night, keys dropped on the sidewalk, or mail left unchecked for weeks on end can all be signs that something is wrong.

Neighbors are often the first people to notice when someone is sick or injured. Keep an eye out, and help to the best of your ability. A phone call to the leasing office or to the police is usually enough to make sure that someone is okay.

On the lighter side of things, good neighbors return packages, collect trash cans that are rolling away, and try to reunite lost items with their owner. Be the kind of neighbor you would like to live around; care without being invasive.

Address Issues Politely

If you have a problem with another tenant, it's usually polite to address the issue in person. If this makes you extremely uncomfortable, it is always fine to contact your landlord instead.

Speak up about noise issues and other small problems. In many cases, your neighbor may not even realize that they are bothering you. Many people will be happy to turn the television down a few notches or move their trash cans.

Don't approach the situation as if the other person is doing something wrong. If the noise is happening before curfew, then they are within their legal rights. It's still fine to ask for accommodation, but be reasonable and considerate. Try to find a solution that works for both of you.

Stay calm if a neighbor complains about your level of noise. Thank them for bringing the issue to your attention, and see if you can help with their concern.

If any dispute feels difficult to resolve, talk to the landlord. You and your neighbor both deserve to feel peaceful in your own home.

Know When to Contact Your Landlord

Your landlord will help you resolve any neighborly disputes. Call them if:
 

• Noises are too loud after established curfew hours.
• You have repeatedly brought up an issue without resolution.
• You notice obvious lease violations.
• You are worried that someone is sick or hurt.

If you aren't sure how to handle something, bring it up with the leasing office and ask for their advice. Getting along with neighbors is all about respect, compassion, and consideration. Living near other people can be difficult, but if you act in good faith, other people will follow suit.
 

The post The Ultimate Renter’s Guide to Getting Along With Neighbors appeared first on West Parc Blog.

Now that you have your own space, it’s time to turn your attention to outfitting your new home and what better place to start than your kitchen? It’s time to stop getting take out and start to break in your kitchen. But where to even start– how many plates? What kind of cookware?

Our ultimate apartment kitchen checklist is organized by category first, listing out everything that is a must in bold so they’re easy to spot.

Pots and Pans

• Saucepot. A small pot with enough volume to prepare enough sauce for one meal will do. Make sure that the pot you choose is actually small and designated for sauce. Heating sauces in a pot that’s too large might cause too much to boil off.
   

• Pasta Pot. Pasta pots come in 5-quart, 6-quart, or 8-quart varieties. If you use a pot that’s too small, your water may overflow as the pasta cooks. You may want to opt for a larger pot if you tend to make more than a box at a time.
   

• Stockpot. This is a pot that’s ideal for preparing soups, stews, and broths. These pots are typically large– using an immersion blender to mix everything will help prevent splatter all over your stovetop.
   

• Frying Pan. You’ll need a medium or large pan to prepare quick stovetop meals like eggs or grilled cheese sandwiches.
   

• Wok. Woks are wide and deep, so they’re perfect for stir-frying. You can always use a regular frying pan for stir-fry, but a wok prevents spillage and makes cleanup much easier.

Silverware

• Forks, Knives, Spoons. Spending some money to invest in a decent set of flatware will go a long way and will last you for years to come. Silverware is sold in sets, so head online or go to your local home store to pick a set that appeals to your personal aesthetic. Often, these sets come with additional serving pieces– this will come in handy when you have a dinner party!
   

• Silverware Organizer. Keep silverware organized and easy to find. Without an organizer, you'll struggle to find the right fork, knife, or spoon and keep track of all of your utensils. 

Dishes
 

• Small Plates. You can use these for breakfast, smaller meals, or salad plates when hosting guests.
   

• Large Plates. Lunch and dinner entrees will fit on these. Large plates have more appeal when serving company.
   

• Bowls. It doesn’t matter if you’re eating breakfast cereal, a smoothie bowl, or some hearty stew– bowls go a long way in the kitchen.
   

• Dish Towels. Dry off dishes and countertops without the waste of paper towels.
   

• Dish Rack. This allows your dishes to dry on a rack while protecting your countertops.
   

Cookware

• Can Opener.  Good luck opening a can without a can opener. Beans, tomato sauce, vegetables, and other staples are completely inaccessible without one.
   

• Prep Knives. A good knife set will make meal prep go by so much more smoothly.
   

• Spatulas, Tongs, and Mixing Spoons. Flatware doesn’t hold up when it comes to food preparation. You’ll want to look for heat-resistant, food-safe silicone to stir, turn, and mix food.
   

• Ladles. You can use ladles to serve soup and serving-size amounts of sauce. This is much more expeditious than using a soup spoon for serving.
   

• Whisks. These handy tools give you the ability to achieve an even mix for scrambled eggs or baking mixes. Nothing quite compares and very rarely is a tool as effective for breaking up small pieces in liquid mixes.
   

• Measuring Cups and Spoons. Be a kitchen chemist of the highest degree by keeping your proportions even and your flavors balanced in every recipe you make.
   

• Cutting Board. You will need a flat, sturdy surface to chop ingredients. Using plates makes food preparation much more difficult and could possibly lead to injury. It’s a good idea to keep separate cutting boards for uncooked meat and everything else to prevent cross-contamination.
   

• Colander. Colanders give you the ability to drain pasta easily. You can avoid the mess and time it takes to carefully tip a pot of boiling water and cooked pasta over your sink.

Appliances

• Blender. To make a quick smoothie or to perfectly blend soups, blenders can be enormously effective in a kitchen. The lowest settings allow it to serve double time as a food processor as well.
   

• Toaster or Toaster Oven. Who wouldn’t love warm bread in minutes?! A toaster oven also gives you baking capabilities for smaller meals.
   

• Microwave. The trusty old mainstay. There is no faster, easier way to warm up leftovers or flash-thaw frozen foods.
   

• Kettle. For all of your tea, coffee, and oatmeal needs, you’ll need a way to boil water quickly and easily.
   

• Rice Cooker. Rice cookers make rice quickly without scalding or overcooking.
   

Ovenware

• Oven Mitts. Avoid burns on your hands from hot baking trays. Oven mitts are available as cloth gloves, cloth pads, or even silicone pinch mitts.
   

• Sheet Pan. Bake, roast vegetables, cook chicken breasts or more with a single pan.
   

• Oven-Safe Dish. Get a rectangular and a square oven-safe dish for cakes, pasta bakes, casseroles, and more.
   

• Silicone Mat. Having a silicone baking mat is a lifesaver. This handy tool creates a non-stick surface on baking trays. 

Food Storage

• Food Storage Containers. Rigid plastic containers are absolutely crucial in any kitchen for storing leftovers.
   

• Freezer bags. You’ll find that some of your raw ingredients hold better in airtight plastic bags. You can also use them to store plastic utensils and other random odds and ends.
   

• Reusable bowl covers. Silicone stretch lids can offer a tighter seal than plastic wraps– and are just as easy to apply. 

The post The Ultimate Apartment Kitchen Checklist appeared first on West Parc Blog.