Category: Blog

When renting an apartment, it’s wise to keep utility bills in mind. Many people are surprised at just how expensive utilities can be, but according to US News,  you should plan to spend around 5 to 10 percent of your income on utility bills. Let’s look at some utility bills renters commonly have to pay.

1. Electricity

Mention the word “utility,” and for many people, electricity is the first thing that pops into mind. In some ways, it’s the quintessential utility, being ubiquitous and having been around for a long time. Most of the time folks who rent apartments will have to pay for their electricity. Of course, the apartment complex will typically pay for electricity used in common areas, like powering lights in halls.

2. The Internet

Is access to the Internet a utility? That’s actually up for debate from a technical point of view, but there’s no denying that the Internet is now essential for most people. From watching your favorite streaming shows to hunting down jobs or expanding your knowledge, accessing the World Wide Web can be a huge boon. When you rent an apartment, you’re likely going to have to set up your own service for this modern-day necessity.

3. Natural Gas

If a unit features a natural gas water heater or stove, there’s a good chance that you’ll have to pay a natural gas bill. Many apartment complexes skip natural gas but it’s important to confirm that beforehand. Otherwise, you may end up with an unexpected utility bill.

4. Water and Sewage

Quite a number of apartment and condo complexes cover sewage utilities. Of course, the cost is usually factored into rent or HOA fees, but you often won’t have to pay a separate bill. Some apartment complexes also include water, however many require tenets to pay for a separate water bill. Before renting an apartment, it’s wise to ask if water and sewage are included.

5. Trash

If you’re renting an apartment in a multi-unit complex, you’ll often be able to access a trash chute, dumpster, or something similar. Fees may be included in the HOA fees or rental price, but often you won’t have to pay a separate bill to a trash removal service. However, if you live in a duplex or stand-alone home, you might have to pay the local waste management provider for trash removal.

While these are several utilities you may need to pay, this list is not uniform. Different apartment complexes have different bills you may need to pay, so it is best to check before deciding to rent. Feel free to view our website to see out available openings for rent.

Going to college is an exciting time, and finding the right student housing can be an important part of the experience. While you may have different student housing options, many students prefer to live off campus. While it can also be a daunting task, especially if it’s your first time looking for a place to live, there are things you can do to make the process of finding the right student housing easier. Here are some tips to follow.

1. Start Your Search Early

One of the most important tips to follow when looking for student housing options is to start your search early. According to the Rental Protection Agency, every day, 2,654 individuals enter the rental market. It’s best to begin your search at least six months in advance of your move-in date, especially if you’re looking for a place in a popular area. This will give you plenty of time to research different options, visit properties, and make a decision that meets your needs and budget.

2. Consider Your Budget

When it comes to student housing, it’s important to consider your budget. College can be expensive, so it’s important to find a place that fits within your financial means. Be sure to factor in rent, utilities, and any other expenses when considering your budget. Don’t be afraid to negotiate on the rent or lease terms, and always make sure to read the lease thoroughly before signing. It’s also important to remember that living with roommates can help to split the cost and make student housing more affordable.

3. Look for Amenities and Locations

The final tip to follow when looking for student housing is to look for amenities and locations. Consider what amenities are important to you, such as on-site laundry, parking, or a fitness center. Additionally, think about location and what is important to you. Do you want to be close to campus or in a more residential area? Do you need to be near public transportation? These are all factors to consider when looking for student housing.

Finding the right student housing options can be an important part of the college experience. By starting your search early, considering your budget, and looking for amenities and locations, you can find a place that meets your needs and enhances your college experience. If you are looking for an apartment near the University of Delaware, we may have the perfect apartment for you. Contact Lang Development Group today to inquire about availability and pricing.

According to Spots.com, 73% of Millennials born between the years 1981 and 1994 have pets. If you’re a dog or cat owner of any age, you want to ensure the best life possible for your furry friend, and choosing the right pet-friendly apartment is a big part of that. As you search for your new living space, be sure to look for the following four features.

Adequate Space

Animals need plenty of exercise to stay in good health, and if an apartment is too cramped, this can significantly decrease your pet’s overall quality of life. Whenever you tour a property, picture the way it will look after you’ve moved all your furniture and other belongings in. After that, will there be enough space for your pet to move around comfortably? If the answer to that question is no, you’ll need to look elsewhere.

Access to Outdoor Areas

If you have a pet that needs to go on walks, it’s important to ensure that your new neighborhood will accommodate that need. Look for a pet-friendly apartment in a safe, quiet area that doesn’t experience a lot of heavy traffic or other walking hazards. A location that’s close to a park or walking trail is even better.

Good Insurance Coverage

No matter how well-trained your pet is, accidents can happen. If your pet causes any sort of property damage, you want to rest assured that your renters insurance will cover that damage. Ask the management of any property you tour whether they have any specific requirements regarding insurance providers. If they don’t accept your desired policy, you’ll need to find a different apartment.

Pet-Friendly Budget

Finally, bear in mind that pets can be expensive to care for. You never know when you’ll need to pay a costly vet bill. Make sure you stay within a reasonable budget and choose a property with rent that you can realistically afford while meeting all your pet’s needs.

Moving with a dog or cat can be a challenging experience, but as long as you keep the above factors in mind, you can find a new home that both you and your pet will love. If you’re looking for a pet-friendly apartment, contact Lang Development Group today to learn more about our available units. We look forward to helping you find your ideal living space!

According to FinancesOnline, the country’s 175 largest universities can provide on-campus accommodations for only 21.5% of undergraduates. When deciding to move off campus, looking at apartments nearby can be a great opportunity for students looking for their own space and independence. Before committing to a lease, there are a few important things to consider.

1. Location

Off-campus apartments should be within a reasonable distance from the school. For example, if you don’t have a car, apartments close enough to campus that you can walk or bike to is ideal. However, if you plan on having visitors over often, apartments farther away from campus may be worth considering since they typically offer more privacy and space.

2. Cost

It’s important to know the cost of off-campus apartments. Before shopping around, it’s helpful to establish a budget. This budget will help narrow your search and ensure you don’t end up paying more than you can afford each month. Be aware of the amenities offered at different apartments; some may charge a higher rate but have amenities such as a pool, gym, or clubhouse.

3. Roommates

Do you want roommates or prefer to live on your own? While roommates can help split the rent and offer companionship, they also lead to conflicts if expectations aren’t communicated. Additionally, apartments near college may limit how many people can live in one unit. Check with the landlord to ensure your apartment meets their requirements.

4. Security

Safety is a major factor when considering apartments near campus. Research these apartments to determine how secure they are. Note whether the spot has a doorman, security cameras, or other safety features in place. Additionally, check out reviews from former tenants to see how safe the complex is.

5. Lease Length

Off-campus apartments may have a range of lease lengths for students. Shorter leases tend to be more expensive on a month-to-month basis, but they can provide flexibility if you decide to move elsewhere at the end of your lease. If you plan to stay in the same place once the semester ends or post-graduation, you may want a longer lease.

6. Utilities

Be sure to factor in the cost of utilities when apartment hunting. Some places may include utilities in the rent, while others require you to pay them separately. Find out which apartments offer the best deal on utilities and factor that into your decision.

When looking for apartments nearby, it’s important to weigh all your options carefully. By keeping these factors in mind, you can find the perfect place to call home during your college years. If you’re looking for off-campus apartments students love, contact Lang Development Group today!

Owning your own business is an amazing feat. However, where you choose to set up shop can impact your company’s success. Choosing the right office space for your company is a big job and requires careful thought, research, and planning. Here are some tips to consider when finding commercial real estate options for your company.

1. Define Your Needs

First, you need to determine the type of commercial real estate that’s appropriate for your business. Consider the size of your staff, location needs, and parking requirements to ensure you get the right building for your needs. Consider potential areas for future expansion to ensure your real estate options can grow with you.

2. Research Available Options

Explore commercial real estate options in your desired area. Utilize real estate listings, such as commercial leasing sites, to further your search. Contact local realtors and brokers if you require more help or additional information. If possible, visit potential commercial buildings in person to get a better feel for the area.

3. Budget and Affordability

Always consider the cost of commercial real estate options. While researching the local market, consider the cost of rent, electricity, internet, deposits, etc. Expect commercial real estate to cost more than residential options, but remember that a good commercial lease can be well worth the investment.

4. Location

The type of business you have can greatly be affected by location. Do you have to meet clients at your office? Does your office space double as a brick n motor shop? Are you looking for commercial real estate in a high-traffic area? These are all things to consider when determining location.

5. Space Requirements

According to The Receptionist, commercial real estate should be roughly 175 square feet per employee. Be sure to get enough space that fits your staff’s requirements and leaves room for future growth. While you may only have a few people now, consider the space for your projected manpower needs in a few years.

Finding real estate prospects for your company doesn’t have to be a headache. Use these tips to help guide you in the commercial real estate search. With careful research and thoughtful consideration, you’ll be able to find the right office space for you. Contact our local real estate office today for assistance.

Your rental unit is the physical embodiment of your business; it’s where customers go to experience what you have to offer. It’s their first impression and it sets the tone for their entire experience with your company. Read on to see why it’s vital to company success.

1. Branding

The business rental space is the first chance to make an impression on potential customers, and how it looks and feels can make a lasting impression. Paying attention to every detail of your rental unit, from the paint color to the furniture and decorations, will help determine how customers perceive your company. Attention to detail is very important when creating a brand image.

2. Accessibility

A rental unit also helps customers find businesses easier and quickly. According to Forbes, it takes someone only 7 seconds from an impression on a person or business. Therefore, easy access to these units helps customers find your business and the services you provide.

3. Growth

Your commercial rental also serves as a place to grow and expand as you develop new ideas and innovations. Take this time to explore different ways to engage customers, create new products and services, or even host events.

4. Variety

Having retail spots in different locations can help customers find what they’re looking for. It’ll be a great opportunity to meet new customers and expand your customer base. The variety allows businesses to test out different markets, prices, and services. With a rental, it’s easier to stay flexible and move around as needed.

5. Location, location, location!

Finally, commercial rentals provide the opportunity to be in high-traffic and desirable locations. When you’re in the right area, you have the potential for more customers, more sales, and higher profits. A high-end area may be out of budget for a real estate purchase in the early stages of your business. Luckily, a rental unit allows you to be in these areas while also staying within your budget.

Your business space is one of your most important assets when establishing a successful business. With careful planning and attention to detail, you can create an environment that customers love and appreciate. Make sure you take the time to evaluate and improve your rental space if needed; it could be what sets you apart from competitors. Contact our local team for more information about taking the next step for your business needs.

Moving into a new apartment can be exciting, but stressful at the same time. You’ll likely be worried about many things, such as whether your pet is allowed, the security in the building, the parking situation, and other things. You can get all these cleared out once you meet with your landlord. So what should you ask before committing to an apartment? Here are a few questions to guide you.

Can You Clarify the Deposit, Rent, and Cost of Utilities?

If you’re renting an old property where you feel the price is too high, ask your potential landlord to state the current price to know if you’re being overcharged. The cost of utilities greatly affects the overall cost of living in the unit. According to the US. News, prepare to spend about 5% to 10% of your annual income on utilities. When you have an exact figure, you know whether it’s a good deal for you or not.

What’s the Building’s Security Like?

Ask if there have been break-in issues or any insecurities in the building and the state of security level in the local space. You want to ensure you’re safe walking your dog in the morning and taking your morning run in and around the neighborhood. Ask about the security measures put in place to protect tenants from thieves and harm during accidents like fire.

What is the Pet Policy?

If you have a furry friend or are looking to get one once you move into your new apartment, it’s important to know whether your potential apartment accommodates them. You also need to find out which pets are allowed, so you don’t keep what’s not allowed. Some apartments will allow you to bring a pe,t but may request you to place a deposit in case of damage.

Is There a Parking Space for My Vehicle?

While not all apartments will have parking spaces, most do. Ask your landlord about parking to know where you will park your vehicle. Apartments with tight parking lots don’t allocate spaces for tenants and operate on a first-come, first-served basis. However, if you’re moving to a new apartment with massive parking space, they will likely allocate space for you. Don’t forget to ask if the parking space is free.

Communication is a critical part of a good landlord-tenant relationship. For more information and questions about residential apartments in Newark, Delaware, contact Lang Development Group today.

Buying your own home is a great way to put down roots and begin building wealth, but it’s not the right decision for everyone. Renting can be a great option if you’re just starting out or want more flexibility. Finding the perfect rental home can take some effort, but there are several ways to make the process easier. If you’re wondering how to find the perfect rental for you, these tips are sure to help.

1. Check For Pet Accommodations

According to Spots.com, around 85 million American homes, or 67%, contain pets and animals. If you’re wondering how to find the perfect rental for you, pet accommodations should be one of the first things you look for. Research pet-friendly rentals in your area and make sure to include this information in your search criteria. You may also need to factor in whether or not there are any pet deposits or fees.

2. Consider Your Budget

Your budget is an important factor to consider when searching for a rental. Estimate what you can pay in rent each month and then look for rentals that fall within your range. When deciding which homes fit into your budget, don’t forget to include other costs like utilities, pet fees, and any deposits. It’s also wise to have a few hundred dollars saved up in case of emergency.

3. Examine the Neighborhood

When looking for the perfect rental, make sure to pay attention to the neighborhood you are considering. It’s important to do your research and get an idea of what it would be like living there. Consider the area’s crime rate, access to public transportation, noise level, and nearby amenities. All of this will help you decide if the neighborhood is right for you.

4. Go on a Tour

One of the best ways to get an accurate idea of what it would be like to live in a property is to take a tour. Seeing the rental in person can help you determine if it has all the features you want and need. It would also be wise to inspect the area for any potential problems such as noise, pests, or water damage.

These tips can help you find the perfect rental for you. Remember to research pet-friendly rentals, consider your budget, examine the neighborhood, and go on a tour before making the right choice for you.

One thing many students and young adults want to do when they’re out on their own is get a pet. This decision requires moving into a pet friendly apartment. This can bring a few changes to the move-in procedure and the occupants’ budgets, and it’s crucial that they keep an eye on that. According to financial experts and college budgeting advice from BestColleges, monthly costs like rent and utilities should not take more than 30% of an after-tax budget. Pet costs can upend that if the pet owners aren’t careful.

Pet Deposits and Pet Rent

First, having a pet in an apartment often requires that you pay a deposit specifically for the pet, and then pay pet rent. That can cost over two hundred dollars per month. Sometimes the exact figures vary by type of pet, and they can apply to individual pets, meaning that if you have two cats, you’ll pay two deposits and two additional pet-rent amounts. If you want pets but are also watching your rent budget, look for a pet friendly apartment that doesn’t charge pet rent, or at least one that charges only one amount no matter how many pets you have.

Being Charged for Damage

Pets don’t cause damage on purpose; it just kind of happens. Stains appear on carpets, and pet hair tends to show up everywhere. Because of that, you can expect to be charged for any damage to the apartment that is due to the pet, when you move out. If you’re lucky, you’ll only lose part of your deposit. However, there is the risk that you’ll be charged more than your deposit, meaning you’ll owe money after you move out. You’ve got to account for this in your budget before you get a pet.

Pet Ownership Costs and Your Budget

Simply owning a pet, even if you don’t have to pay pet rent and can fix all damage yourself, can be very expensive due to care costs. You’ll need to get scratching posts for cats, for example, to protect the carpet and doors from a bored cat’s claws. Vet costs can throw your budget out of whack, making it difficult for you to afford the rent. The list goes on, and you have to be sure your budget can cover these.

If you’re looking for a pet friendly apartment and are sure you’re going to get a pet, start asking about requirements like pet rent. Double and triple-check your budget to ensure your rent and the pet costs won’t conflict. Call Land Development Group to find your pet friendly apartment today!