Get the Most Out of the Apartment Tour

Before signing an apartment lease, it's recommended to tour the property in person to ensure it meets all your criteria and lives up to your expectations. Though the complex's website may provide a lot of details and property photos, an in-person visit is the only way to really know if the apartment is right for you. Consider these tips to get the most out of the apartment tour.

Make an appointment

While a lot of apartment complexes do allow drop-in visits, it's best to schedule an appointment with the property manager in advance. This ensures someone will be available to show you the unit you will be renting, as well as any communal spaces, such as a clubhouse or fitness center, that are closed to non-residents. Your tour guide will also be able to share valuable information regarding the complex, as well as answer your important questions.  

Take notes

When touring multiple apartments in Piscataway, NJ or Hamilton, it can be easy for them to start to blend together. Bring a camera and notepad with you to the showings so that you can record your thoughts about the unit and complex. Make note of things you like and don't like about the property and also record its amenities, features, and other vital details.

Ask important questions

Prepare a list of questions to ask the property manager during the tour. Check them off as you go, and write down any key pieces of information. Some important questions to ask include:

• What utilities are included in the rent?
• Are there any move-in fees?
• What are the lease terms?
• Do you require renter's insurance?
• How are emergency maintenance requests and repairs handled?
• Where do I park? Is there parking for my guests?
• How often do you increase your rental rates and by how much?
• How secure is the property?
• Can I rent a garage or store space? If so, how much does it cost?
• What's your pet policy?
• What's the process for trash disposal and recycling?
• Are the appliances in the unit in good working condition?  
• What's the anticipated move-in date for this unit?
• Do the communal areas, like the clubhouse or pool, have wireless internet?

Take time to reflect

As you tour the property, take a moment to envision yourself living there. Can you see yourself cooking in the kitchen or entertaining guests? Does the unit look like it will fit your furniture and other belongings? Does it seem like a comfortable place where you'd like to live? If you don’t get a positive feeling from the apartment, then you can probably eliminate it from your list of options.

The apartment tour is a crucial part of the search process. To make the most out of your next tour, follow our helpful tips. For luxury apartments in New Jersey, visit us online.

Luxury Apartments Spotlight: The Crossings in Hamilton, NJ

Living in New Jersey puts you in the center of it all – you live in a state that's filled with famous beaches, you get to enjoy easy access to major cities along the East Coast and you have the ability to experience all four seasons! Sounds like a homerun no matter which city you live in. But, to make living even better, you need to pair the location with a superb residential community and that can be all yours at The Crossings in Hamilton, NJ.

The Crossings at Hamilton Station is a premier residential community that's filled with luxurious apartments and townhomes that'll give you the lifestyle you've always wanted. Whether you choose to purchase or rent, the townhomes and apartments in Hamilton, NJ are situated in a private resort-style community that offers the ultimate convenience in commuting as the high speed rail line at the Hamilton train station is just a short stroll away. This provides you with quick access to cities like Philadelphia, New York, Trenton and Princeton!

Community Features

The Crossings at Hamilton Station feature amenities that are second to none. Residents get to enjoy continental breakfast on the weekends, access to the state-of-the-art clubhouse that offers a swimming pool, 24-hour business conference room, 24-hour fitness center, a game and media room and so much more. On top of that, the entire community features professionally landscaped grounds, making it a serene park-like setting to relax and unwind.

Residential Features

Whether you choose a luxury townhouse or apartment, you'll get everything you'd expect in a high-end home. Each floorplan is laid out in a spacious manner that provides you with ample room to entertain and relax after a long day. You'll appreciate the full-sized front loading washer and dryer as well as the independently controlled central air-conditioning system that will keep you cool and comfortable. At the same time, you'll conserve energy and reap the rewards every month on your utility bill as every home comes with an efficient and economical gas forced air heating system. Plus, all apartments and townhomes were built with the highest grade materials that offer R-30 ceiling insulation and R-13 exterior wall insulation for maximum energy-efficiency.

The kitchen is the heart of the home and you'll enjoy preparing meals in the gorgeous kitchen that features deluxe cabinetry, an energy-efficient self-cleaning gas range/oven, over-the-range microwave that's vented outside, a multi-cycle dishwasher, a designer sink & faucet as well as ample countertop space. Moving on to the bathroom and you'll enjoy cultured marble vanity tops, Moen faucets, oversized showers with glass doors and designer mirrors above the vanities.

The Crossings at Hamilton Station feature everything you want – from large bedrooms to oversized closets – you'll have the space you want with luxurious designs. Are you ready to make the move to The Crossings at Hamilton Station? 

Luxury Apartments Spotlight: Park Lane In Cherry Hill, NJ

If you have been hunting for luxury apartments in New Jersey, your search is over because the apartments at Park Lane will give you everything you've ever wanted plus more. Conveniently located in the heart of Cherry Hill, the luxury apartments at Park Lane provide residents with resort-style amenities, high-end finishes and spacious floorplans that will give you the lifestyle you've always wanted. Combine that with a prime location that's adjacent to one of the largest shopping destinations in South Jersey and easy access to public transportation…you couldn't live in a better place! Read on to learn more about the luxury apartments at Park Lane.

Your Exclusive Community Resort

Park Lane luxury apartments are a part of the exclusive and private residential community known as Garden State Park, which has been designed to provide amenities that rival those found at five-star resorts. Adding to that concept, this luxuriously private community adds the comforts and conveniences of home. The community features an envy-inducing clubhouse that includes:

• Wall Street-inspired business center that boasts an extensive library
• Professional-grade billiards hall for entertainment
• Resort-style swimming pool
• State-of-the-art fitness center
• HD media room
• Recreational park with tennis courts
• Outdoor gourmet grilling and chilling area
• 44 acres of preserved open space with walking trails and gorgeous landscaping

Your New Luxury Apartment

The luxury apartments at Park Lane feature high-end finishes like granite countertops, designer fixtures, stainless steel appliances and so much more. In the gourmet kitchen, you'll be pleased to come across the deluxe cabinetry and full sized appliances like a side-by-side refrigerator, a dishwasher and an over-the-stove microwave – leaving you with plenty of counter space to prepare meals. Additionally, the kitchen walls boast an attractive backsplash that complements the countertops.

The floorplan is open from the kitchen, so you will have a direct view into the dining area and living space, which provides you with the ultimate set up for entertaining guests.

• One bedroom floorplans boast an impressive 810 sq. ft. to 1,000 sq. ft.
• Two bedroom apartments range from 1,149 sq. ft. to 1,462 sq. ft.
• Select apartments include an balcony/patio overlooking the luxurious community

Regardless of the floorplan you choose, you'll have access to your very own full-sized washer and dryer. On top of that, the bathrooms feature the same luxurious finishes like high-end fixtures and granite countertops. Additionally, each luxury apartment has an independently controlled energy-efficient HVAC system that'll keep your apartment comfortable all-year-round without high utility bills. Speaking of energy efficiency, the apartments were constructed with energy-efficient windows and high-R valued wall/ceiling insulation to maximize efficiency.

Every bedroom features luxurious wall-to-wall carpeting and a large walk-in closet that'll be more than enough space for even the biggest clothing collection. You'll no longer have to dream about living in a luxury apartment in New Jersey because you have the chance to wake up in one every day at Park Lane!

Market Place & Towne Place At Garden State Park

Adjacent to your luxury apartment community, you'll be impressed with the number of boutiques, brand name retailers and restaurants that are right next door. Simply take a stroll or jump in the car and you'll immediately find your way to the Market Place and Towne Place shopping plazas that are filled with high-end retailers, grocery stores and much more.

Beyond those conveniences, Cherry Hill is the ultimate shopping destination as it features one of the largest malls in the state and has many other retailers, dining options and entertainment venues spread throughout the town.

Are you ready to move into the best luxury apartments in New Jersey? Add Park Lane to the top of your home hunting list and contact Edgewood Properties at 732-985-1900 to learn more about this luxurious community. 

Spring Into Action: 10 Things To Do After Moving

The spring is one of the best times of the year to move, especially if you get it done before the busiest moving period of the year, which typically is between Memorial Day and Labor Day. When you plan a home search and move before the end of May, you will have more housing options on the market before the competition begins to heat up. If you find a new property during this optimal time period, as you pack up your belongings and get the keys to your new home, there are a few things you need to do right after you move into your new residence that will provide peace-of-mind for years to come!

1. Take Pictures

Whether you are buying a new home or have locked down an awesome rental on one of the many luxury apartments in New Jersey, you should immediately take pictures as soon as you have your keys. Pictures of the bare floors and empty rooms are essential for many reasons. As a renter, the pictures can serve as a vital tool to get your security deposit back later down the road. As a homeowner (and a renter), the pictures can be used as documentation if the movers scratched the floors or accidently put a hole in the wall. The gallery of pictures can help you point out damage and get money for the repairs from the moving company.

2. Get Utilities Set Up

Unless you are living off the grid, you probably want to make sure you have water, electricity and gas up and running as soon as you move in. Call the utility providers to get everything hooked up! 

3. Inspect Your Belongings

As mentioned above, you may have hired a moving company to pack or move your belongings; if so, you only have a limited amount of time to report any damaged or missing items. Read your contract from the moving company and review the liability coverage, because they could owe you a replacement or reimbursement in the event something is broken or missing.

4. Swap Out Locks

Homeowners and renters should swap out their locks or request new ones from their property manager as soon as they move in. You probably don’t know who previously had keys to your new place, and no one likes that lingering thought of who else may have a copy. Instead, get some peace-of-mind and have them changed immediately for safety and security reasons.

5. Paint Before You Unpack Everything

Even if you move into a new construction home or luxury apartment that has some gorgeous features, you may feel inclined to add some of your personality into the space by painting the walls. With that in mind, consider painting before you are fully unpacked because the longer you wait, the harder it will become. Moving heavy furniture or working around big and bulky pieces can be tough, so try and get it done before everything is settled in place.

6. Note The Trash Pick-up Schedule

All those moving boxes are going to need to find their way to the garbage or recycling bin once you have everything unpacked. Determine the trash pick-up schedule because it'll make your life easier and clutter-free when you can get rid of all those empty boxes. Ask your landlord, check with the Homeowners’ Association or simply ask a neighbor so you don't have piles of cardboard lying around for too long.

7.  Update You License

Whether you moved from another state, or simply moved down the street, it is important to update your license or ID to match your new address. Call the local motor vehicle office for specific details about the process because there are certain documents you'll need to prove your residency for an updated address. Additionally, have all of your mail forwarded to your new address from the U.S. post office until you update all of your mailing addresses (bills, magazine subscriptions, etc.).

8. Update Vehicle Registration

Depending on the state rules, you may have a certain window of time to update your vehicle registration information. Since you'll be at the motor vehicle office for your new license, you might as well get it all done in one visit. After you vehicle registration has the new address, call your insurance company to provide them with the updated address.

9. Check Credit Reports

As soon as you move, your credit reports are typically accessed and you will want to check them a few months after you have settled in. This is because they will include your address and you want to make sure the newly listed address is accurate. If the credit report doesn't have it doesn't have it down correctly, just give that bureau a call and update it accordingly.

10. Update Voter Information

Just like above with updating your license/ID, you want to make sure your voter information is up-to-date because sooner or later, you'll want to exercise your right to vote. Whether you want to vote in the upcoming presidential election or simply want to weigh in on the local school board, make sure you are registered in your new town and your voter ID card has your new address. 

On The Hunt: Things To Look For In A Luxury Apartment [Infographic]

Finding a new place to call home can be challenging, however, if you are looking for luxury apartments in New Jersey, check out this infographic to learn about the things to look for!

Apartment Hunting Tips

You may be getting tired of that old apartment you’re renting or perhaps you just need something to better accommodate your changing needs. Well, before you pack up all your belongings and sign a new lease at the first apartment you see, make sure you check out all your options! To help you find the perfect, new place to call home, check out these tips to help your apartment hunting run smoothly.

Make A List. Before you start touring apartments, make a list of your must haves. How many bedrooms and bathrooms do you want? This may be the first thing on your list because just those two answers can significantly narrow down your choices right off the bat.  What types of features or luxury amenities are on your list? Remember, you want a place that will suit all your needs and have all the conveniences you want. Once you have your list, let the tours begin!

Location. Are you looking for a luxury apartment in New Jersey? Florida? California? Depending on where you are planning to move, you need to figure out where you will be moving to. Perhaps you are staying in the local community where you grew up or you are moving to an area closer to work. While making a list is important, it’s also important to know where you want to move.

Parking. Many apartment complexes have certain regulations about parking and figuring out what they are before you sign the lease could make or break the deal. Some allow for only one or two spaces per apartment and others just provide first-come-first-serve street parking. Make sure you investigate the parking situation because it could become extremely problematic. Just think – where will your guests park? Is that slender-spaced parking lot going to fit your truck or SUV? Be aware of the parking situation at every apartment so you know how convenient or not convenient parking will be. 

Neighbors. Parking and location aren’t the only factors in choosing the best apartment. Are the neighbors in your age range? Do they have kids? Take a closer look at the people who you may be living next to and see if their demographics fit your lifestyle. You want to find a place where you feel like you belong and have some sort of compatibility with. You never know if you’ll really need to borrow that cup of sugar from next door.

Utilities. Is the apartment you are checking out include certain utilities in the rent or lease agreement? Sometimes you will find that complexes will pay for a portion of your water bill or garbage removal. Either way, a complex that offers that can save you money in the long haul and can be an added perk. Make sure you read the fine print before you sign so you know if you are getting the best deal!

4 Tips To Decorate Your Luxury Apartment For The Fall

It’s time to pack up that summer themed décor and embrace design that comes with autumn. Prepping your luxury apartment for a fall transition doesn’t take much but it will impress anyone who enters your door! When the fall arrives, a plethora of oranges, yellows and reds begin to change the outdoor scenery and you should bring those colors into your space. Consider these tips to intensify your luxury apartment and ‘awe’ guests:

1. Entryway – The first space in your apartment you want to tackle is the entry way. Creating the best seasonal ambiance can easily be done by updating a few key things right at the door. Choose a high-end runner rug that can flow into your apartment. Look for a rug that has warm, fall colors and a simple, elegant design. This will immediately transport the autumn flow into the place you call home. If you have a display table near the front door, put seasonal items on it like pumpkins, decorative leaves and miniature, natural wreaths (you can typically find them at craft stores).
2. Living room – Now that you have decorated the entryway, you want to continue the autumn theme into your main living space. Invest in throw pillows that bring the colors of fall into your space and pull out some fleece blankets that can easily be grabbed on a chilly North Jersey night. To keep your luxury apartment cozy, strategically place these items on furniture such as couches, but have them on display in an orderly manner to create that manicured yet ‘comfy’ look. Additionally, utilize the space provided by coffee tables and end tables. You can find unique and versatile drink coasters that have autumn designs – this will tie the space together even more.
3. Bedroom – Changing up the feel in your bedroom can be as easy as changing the bedding! When replacing the bedding, look for fall themed comforters, sheets and pillowcases. The look itself will make your bedroom a warm and relaxing space. Add another sense into the mix and light some candles that smell like pumpkin pie!
4. Restroom – There’s no need to complete a renovation in the bathroom to bring the fall indoors, all you have to do is swap out the towels. ‘Burnt’ orange towels, matching wash cloths and bathmats can tie together that autumn look in a flash.

Now that you have the basic framework of prepping your luxury apartment for fall, be sure to make it your own design with personal touches.

5 Tips to Go Green in Your Luxury Apartment

You don’t have to sacrifice the environment for luxury living and making the switch to go green is easier than you think. Owning a luxury apartment comes with many benefits, you get beautiful designs, gorgeous amenities and prime locations…and turning your pad into an ecofriendly place is simple! Check out these five tips that will save you money and help the environment!

1. Switch all the lighting in your luxury apartment to CFL (compact fluorescent light) bulbs and throw away the impractical incandescent bulbs. CFL technology uses significantly less wattage by producing light instead of needing to convert the light into heat which is what incandescent bulbs do. You can swap out the bulbs in a matter of minutes and you could potentially start saving money on your electricity bill. Take for example a traditional, incandescent 60 watt light bulb – replacing that bulb with an equivalently bright CFL bulb cuts the wattage to 14! CFL bulbs also have a longer life compared to traditional light bulbs, so with that in effect, you also reduce the need to purchase them again.
2. Turning off the thermostat and opening the windows cuts down the amount of energy your HVAC system must use. This simple task helps the environment and can help reduce the costs of heating and cooling. For example, during the fall, Luxury apartments in NJ can take advantage of this simple switch because of the drop in temperature.  Not only do the cooler temps bring more comfort, but they typically last for months. You have the potential of having fresh air enter your apartment for months!
3. Swap out some appliances with “Energy Star” certified appliances. Depending on what you already have around your apartment, switching can be easy and inexpensive. Take for example a microwave that is 5 years old, it may be “Energy Star” certified, but in today’s market, newer appliances  with even better ratings are available!
4. Wash your laundry with cold water instead of hot. Did you know about 80% of the energy used with hot water could be conserved if you make the switch? When doing so, you can also find laundry detergents that are specifically designed for cold water applications, meaning they will perform a wash just as well as hot water.
5. Unplug unused electronics like DVD players, computers and all other neighboring electronic accessories. These devices will continue to suck up energy even if they are not being used, so while you are away or just not using them, unplug.

These simple tips are just a few ways to convert your place into an ecofriendly apartment. The next time you see your utility bill, let it serve as a reminder to conserve energy and make the switch!

Things to Bring When Apartment Hunting

Apartment hunting can be stressful. So don’t make the experience any harder on yourself than it has to be. Everyone looking for an apartment should have certain essentials that make finding the perfect apartment easy.

                                                                             

Tape Measurer

Don’t underestimate the value of a tape measurer when looking at potential apartments. Before going on the hunt, measure some of your larger pieces of furniture like your bed, couch or dining room table. Then, you’ll be able to double check that the apartment will fit all your things. Empty or perfectly staged apartments can be extremely misleading, so don’t just assume everything will fit.

Camera

Since almost everyone has a camera in their phone, this will most likely be the easiest thing to bring on an apartment search. If you are visiting several apartments in a row, take pictures of each one to help with the decision process. Otherwise, you might end up with a kitchen that is not as large as you remember it.

A List of Must-Have’s

Carefully craft a short list of one to three items that you must have in your future home. These are the ultimate items you can’t see living without or you’ll walk. Share this with the realtor before the apartment search. By having a short list, it should allow the realtor room to show you a variety of apartments.

References

Sometimes apartment hunting can get lethal, when there is one amazing apartment and several interested parties. If you fall in love with an apartment that will be fought over, having a list of references from former landlords or employers can help give you an advantage.

A friend

It’s always nice to have another set of eyes. When another person tags along, you are able to notice both positive and negative aspects that you might have otherwise overlooked. Just don’t bring a Negative Nancy who will find no redeeming qualities in any apartment. A friend should help point out things here and there, but otherwise let you form your own opinion about each space.

To successfully find the perfect apartment for you among the various luxury apartments in New Jersey, you’ll need the right tools. If you bring the above things on your apartment search, you’ll manage to snag the perfect apartment for you.