Security Tips for Living Off-Campus

Living off-campus is an exciting milestone in a college student’s life. However, with this newfound independence comes additional responsibilities, including ensuring your safety and security in your new living space. Lang Development Group is committed to providing a safe and secure environment for all its tenants.

Here are some essential security tips to consider when living off-campus:

1. Choose the Right Location

  • Research the Neighborhood: Before signing a lease, research the safety of the area. While Lang Development Group’s properties are located in well-maintained, low-crime areas, it’s still important to consider surrounding safety factors such as nighttime lighting and the general presence of people in the area.
  • Commute Considerations: If you will be commuting to work, or across campus, ensure that your apartment is close to public transportation, campus, and other necessary services. This can reduce your risk of walking alone at night.

2. Secure Your Living Space

  • Lock Up: Always lock your doors and windows, even when you’re at home.
  • Ask Before Opening: Don’t open the door to strangers, especially if you weren’t expecting them.
  • Secure Your Valuables: Keep your valuables, like laptops, phones, and jewelry, out of sight and locked away when not in use. Consider getting a safe for added security.

3. Be Aware of Your Surroundings

  • Walk with Friends: If you plan to go out at night, always walk with friends or use campus safety services such as walking escorts or shuttles. The University of Delaware provides walking escorts 24/7 and golf-cart service from 6 PM to 1 AM. You can request a ride by calling 831-RIDE or using the LifeSafe app.
  • Download the LifeSafe App: The University of Delaware offers a smartphone safety app called LifeSafe. This app enhances communication between the campus community and safety officials by utilizing features like GPS-location, camera, and text capabilities. It allows UD students, faculty, and staff to directly and seamlessly contact the University of Delaware Police Department (UDPD) for a range of safety issues.
  • Shuttle Service: Transportation Services offers pick-up from Morris Library, Perkins Student Center, Townsend Hall, and the north end of the STAR Health Sciences Building on the STAR Campus.
  • Know Emergency Numbers: In addition to the LifeSafe app, it’s beneficial to add local emergency contacts, including the police and campus security, to your phone’s contact list as a backup option.
  • Trust Your Instincts: If something feels off or someone makes you uncomfortable, leave the area and seek safety. It’s better to be cautious than to take risks.

4. Get to Know Your Neighbors

  • Form a Community: Get to know your neighbors. Neighbors can watch out for each other and alert you to any suspicious activity.

5. Protect Your Personal Information

  • Be Cautious with Sharing: Avoid sharing personal information on social media that could lead to you being targeted for theft or scams. Protect your identity and personal information at all times.

Living off-campus doesn’t mean sacrificing your safety. By following these security tips and taking precautions, you can enjoy your new space with peace of mind. Lang Development Group is here to support you every step of the way, ensuring your off-campus living experience is both safe and enjoyable.

Discover Newark’s Premier Commercial Space: A Modern Marvel at One South Main

Lang Development Group is thrilled to introduce a stunning new commercial property that has just hit the market: One South Main. Set to be available for lease starting January 2025, this exceptional property offers a unique opportunity for businesses seeking a prime location in the heart of Newark, Delaware.

A Space Designed for Success

One South Main is more than just a building—it’s a statement. This beautiful, modern space spans 13,000 square feet across the first two floors and is designed to impress and inspire.  Two upper floors are dedicated to residential living.

As you enter, you’re greeted by an open lobby featuring soaring ceilings, expansive windows that flood the space with natural light, and a sweeping staircase that makes a striking first impression. The lobby also includes seating spaces, internet counter and a refreshment area, providing a perfect spot for informal meetings or a quick coffee break.

The commercial space itself is a blend of functionality and elegance. It includes 18 private offices, several large shared spaces ideal for collaborative work, and at least three conference areas equipped to host meetings, presentations, and brainstorming sessions. Whether you’re a growing startup or an established firm, this space can be tailored to meet your needs.

Location, Location, Location

One of the standout features of One South Main is its prime location. Situated just steps away from the University of Delaware’s main campus, this property offers unparalleled access to the vibrant academic community, making it an ideal choice for businesses that value proximity to talent, innovation, and resources.

Currently occupied by the University of Delaware’s Masters of Business Administration Program, the space has been meticulously maintained and is equipped with all the modern amenities a business could need.

Key Details

  • Address: 1 S Main Street, Newark, DE 19711
  • Type: Office
  • Total Building Size: 26,000 SF
  • Available Commercial Space: 13,000 +/- SF (6,500 SF on the 1st floor, 6,500 SF on the 2nd floor)
  • Leasing Begins: January 2025

Why Choose One South Main?

This property isn’t just about the space—it’s about the opportunity. Being located in the heart of Newark means you’re not just leasing an office; you’re becoming part of a thriving community. The nearby university offers a steady stream of potential clients, employees, and collaborators, while the central location ensures easy access to all the amenities the city has to offer.

Secure Your Space Today

With its modern design, prime location, and flexible space, One South Main is poised to be one of the most sought-after commercial properties in Newark. Leasing begins in January 2025, but spaces like this don’t stay on the market for long.

Contact Lang Development Group today to learn more about how you can make One South Main your business’s new home. Don’t miss out on the chance to secure a space that reflects your company’s ambitions and potential.

Leasing an Apartment for the First Time

apartment tour

Renting a home or an apartment in Newark, DE, can be an exciting experience, especially for those venturing out on their own for the first time as a young adult.  However, finding the right place can be challenging and confusing. At Lang Development Group, we understand that your time is valuable, and that’s why we offer virtual tours of our properties in northern Delaware. This allows you to explore your future home without the need for an in-person visit. Here’s how our virtual tours, coupled with detailed web explanations and a well-informed residential team, can help you make an informed decision:

Assess the Apartment’s Condition

It’s vital to ensure that your future home is in excellent condition. Our virtual tours offer a comprehensive view of each apartment’s kitchen, bathroom, living room, bedrooms, and closets. This enables you to inspect the property thoroughly (and as many times as you’d like!) for quality and functionality.

Understand the Basics

How many roommates will you have?  Which apartments will best accommodate your preferred living arrangements (single/double rooms)?  Do you require a location a short distance to University of Delaware campus?  What about A/C?  Pets?  Laundry facilities?  Number of bathrooms?

Make a list of what’s most important to you, and then research which Lang property ticks the most of your boxes.

View Appliances, Amenities and ask about “Extras”

Our apartment virtual tour will include a view of included kitchen appliances and laundry facilities. Our detailed property descriptions will let you understand parking options, and whether the property has an elevator, intercom system or balcony in the apartment.  You should also ask the property manager what is NOT included in your lease:  Utilities?  Cable?  Internet?  Our staff is available M-F from 9AM to 5PM to answer any questions you may have after reading our detailed descriptions online. This will allow you to gauge potential utility and living costs.

Convenient and Informative

At Lang Development Group, we make it easy for you to explore our properties through virtual tours available on our YouTube channel and website. This is especially convenient for busy students and professionals who currently live outside the northern Delaware area. By viewing these virtual tours, you can save time and make a more informed decision from the comfort of your current home.

For more information about our available properties and to access our virtual tours, please visit our website langdevelopmentgroup.com or contact us directly at 302-731-1340 or leasing@langdevgrp.com . Lang Development Group is here to help you find the perfect apartment or home in Newark, DE, ensuring a smooth and satisfying rental experience.

apartment tour

lmk 2024

 

Navigating off-campus housing? Here are some important considerations!

Student housing at the University of Delaware has been a topic of interest for Newark officials for quite some time. Back in 2014, the city conducted a rental needs study, revealing a growing demand for approximately 50 additional apartment units annually to meet the needs of the community. With the University’s student population steadily rising and on-campus housing options dwindling, private off-campus developers have stepped in to bridge the gap.

While this shift necessitates additional research and planning from students and their families, resources like the University of Delaware Housing, Sublets & Roommates Facebook page exemplify the supportive nature of the UD community in navigating this aspect of the college experience.

Venturing into the realm of off-campus housing can feel like diving into the unknown, but fear not! Let Lang break it down and make it a bit less daunting. Here’s a comprehensive look at the key factors to consider as you embark on your housing hunt:

Group Size: Before diving headfirst into your search, take stock of how many roommates you’ll be living with. This crucial piece of information will help narrow down your options and ensure you’re considering properties that comfortably accommodate your group.

Number of Bedrooms/Bathrooms: Once you’ve got your group size confirmed, it’s time to think about your living preferences. Does everyone in your group desire their own private bedroom, or are you open to sharing? Some of our units offer one person per bedroom, but others may allow sharing, so it’s worth discussing with your crew.  The bathroom situation can also be a make-or-break factor for many. Are you comfortable sharing facilities with multiple people?  One person?  None at all?  Considering this early on will save you potential headaches down the road, and is a great first step in defining your wish list.

Location: Which part of Newark appeals to you most? Are you aiming for proximity to UD campus buildings, the bustling energy of Main Street, or perhaps a quieter neighborhood vibe? Keep in mind that our property portfolio spans various areas of town, ensuring you’ll be sure to find something to match your preferred locale.

Type of Property: Another important consideration is the type of living situation that aligns with your lifestyle. Are you envisioning the independence of a standalone house with a yard, the convenience of an apartment, or perhaps something in between, like a townhouse? Each option offers its unique perks, so weigh your preferences carefully.

Amenities: Let’s talk comfort and convenience. Is central air conditioning a must-have for you? If you own a vehicles, parking availability is undoubtedly a consideration.  Early on, take note of these amenities (and others) for each property you’re eyeing to ensure they meet your needs.

Cost: Ah, the bottom line. Have a rough idea of your budgetary constraints to guide your search. Rent prices can vary significantly based on factors like amenities, location, and property type, so having a ballpark figure in mind will help narrow down your choices.  Another part of understanding “costs” is understanding what’s included in the rent and what additional expenses you’ll need to budget for. While our properties typically do not include utilities, it’s essential to factor in these costs when planning your budget.  Feel free to ask what average costs for utilities have been in the past for your particular unit.

Availability:  Off-campus housing at the University of Delaware is in high demand, with many students beginning their search up to a year in advance. To secure your ideal space, contact leasing@langdevelopmentgroup.com as early as possible. Our expert team can provide guidance on navigating this ever-changing market and inform you about the leasing season opening dates.

By considering these key factors, you’ll be well-equipped to navigate the off-campus housing landscape with confidence. Ready to find your perfect college home away from home? We’re excited to assist you in your search!

Photo by Joshua Mayo

lmk 2024

 

5 Tips to Help You Navigate Landlord and Tenant Communication

Navigating landlord and tenant communication can be complicated if you’re new to renting a house or apartment. However, that’s the case for many renters today. According to the Rental Protection Agency, about 40.6% of renters nationwide are between the ages of 15 and 34. These tips and tricks will help you figure out the basics of communication with renters of any age.

1. Welcome Packets

When landlords establish welcome packets, it helps develop clear channels of communication. This can let tenants know how to contact you if necessary and establish whether you prefer text or email. A welcome packet will let tenants know how to deal with potential issues, like problems with apartments nearby or maintenance requests.

2. Timely Responses

Both tenants and landlords should respond promptly to communication from the other party. This is especially important for problems like maintenance issues, or a tenant should message the landlord if they will be late on rent. The timely response ensures the other party knows they are a priority, even if it’s just a complaint about apartments nearby.

3. Written Communication

Written communication is best for both parties. When written communication like texts or emails is used, this ensures there is evidence of the conversation to solve any potential disputes instantly. Avoid having severe discussions over the phone to prevent problems or misunderstandings.

4. Know the Law

Both landlords and tenants must know the other party’s rights. For example, tenants should understand the eviction process to ensure they are not unlawfully evicted. A landlord should also know what to fix if a tenant breaks it, how often they must contact pest control, and other important laws that can impact this relationship.

5. Avoid Friendships

While tenants and landlords may get along, it’s essential to understand this is usually a business relationship. When the two parties become close friends, it can cause issues. Tenants may expect leniency in rent and landlords might expect more from a tenant. Instead, it’s best to treat this communication as you would a professional colleague.

The tenant and landlord relationship is professional and communication should reflect that. Avoid using swear words or words you wouldn’t use in the workplace. Written communication can be the most effective way to talk with your landlord. If you have any questions about apartments nearby, please call us today or fill out a form on our website. Contact Land Development Group to learn more about our properties.