Northwind Apartments

Improve Your VIP Experience: Flexible Ways to Pay Rent and Build Credit at Northwind

Wed, 15 Apr 2026 20:51:29 GMT

At Northwind Apartments , we are committed to providing our VIPs with the best tools to manage their apartment homes effortlessly. We want to highlight the various ways you can handle your monthly rent, including some exciting benefits that help you build your financial future just by living with us.

1. The AppFolio Resident Portal App

The easiest way to manage your living experience is through the AppFolio app. It is a one-stop shop for your most frequent needs:

Convenient Payments: Set up one-time or automatic payments using a bank account (e-check), credit card, or debit card.
Split Payments with Flex: We have integrated Flex directly into your AppFolio app. This service allows you to split your rent into two payments throughout the month. Flex pays your rent to us in full and on time, while you pay them back on a schedule that fits your cash flow.
Full Transparency: View your current balance, previous statements, and full payment history anytime.

2. Build Your Credit for Free with Pinata

Your consistent rent payments should work for you. We are proud to offer Free Positive Rent Payment Reporting to major credit bureaus through our partner, Pinata.

How it works: You will receive an email invitation from Pinata to sign up for this service. Once you are enrolled, your on-time payments are reported to the credit bureaus.
The Benefit: This helps you build your credit score over time without any extra cost. It is our way of rewarding your reliability and helping you reach your long-term financial goals. (Please note: we do not utilize any resident reward or marketplace features through Pinata; this service is strictly for your credit reporting benefit.)

3. More Ways the App Helps You

Beyond payments, the AppFolio app remains your primary tool for staying connected with our Bellflower community. You can:

Submit Maintenance Requests: Easily upload photos and descriptions of any needed repairs.
Manage Renter's Insurance: Access your policy or update your provider details.
Stay Informed: Contact the office via text or phone, update your contact preferences, and access your lease documents.

At Northwind Apartments , we treat every resident like a VIP. Whether you are looking for more flexibility with Flex or looking to boost your credit score through Pinata, we are here to support your lifestyle.

Lights, Trees, and More: Find Holiday Activities in Bellflower

Tue, 01 Nov 2022 05:21:00 GMT

Sun, mild temperatures, friendly faces, a variety of events, holiday cheer—what’s not to love about holiday activities in Bellflower and the surrounding area?

The holiday season might be the best time of year to live in Southern California, with a mix of perfect weather and holiday fun. You can enjoy outdoor activities without freezing, and if you prefer the cold, snow and winter sports are within driving distance. So grab your favorite wintertime beverage and keep reading so you can make a list of holiday activities in Bellflower and beyond to hit this holiday season.

Watch a Christmas Tree Lighting

Cities and towns around Bellflower kick off the holiday season in early December with a traditional Christmas tree lighting in the town square or city plaza—along with a festive party.

La Palma : This will be one of the first cities in the area to light a tree in 2023 on December 6. The Annual Holiday Tree Lighting Ceremony is at Central Park Amphitheater, so gather your friends and family to start the holidays with performances from local schools and a community carol sing-a-long. If singing isn’t your style, you can write a letter to Santa, create some crafts, or visit with Santa, Mrs. Claus, and the elves.

The party is from 4 to 5:30 p.m., followed by the tree lighting. And don’t worry: If it’s raining on December 6, the party will just be moved to December 13—same time, same place.

Bellflower : Looking for weekend holiday activities in Bellflower? This city is starting the holiday season off right with a citywide tree lighting celebration at 6:30 p.m. on Friday, December 3. Grab friends and family and head to Friendship Square in downtown Bellflower for holiday crafts, refreshments, carolers, Santa Claus, and even sledding on real snow! The sledding activity is free, and the city will provide the sleds.

Lakewood : Like Bellflower, Lakewood is hosting a Christmas tree lighting on December 1. This city’s event is from 4:30 to 8 p.m., with sing-a-longs, Dickens carolers, snow, food trucks, face painting, holiday photo ops, free carnival games, Santa, and, of course, the lighting of the 24-foot tree in Civic Center Plaza!

Buena Park : There’s another tree lighting happening on December 1 in Buena Park, at City Hall Plaza. Along with the traditional tree lighting, the event features festivities and a visit from Santa. Watch the event page for the time and more details about the event.

Check Out Lights and Decorations

There’s nothing like loading up the car and sipping a hot beverage while you cruise around the area looking for the best holiday lights and decorations.

Bellflower : Every year, Bellflower looks for the best and brightest decorations with its Holiday Home Decorating Contest. The judging happens the week of December 6, and all the winning homes will have a sign. So take a drive around Bellflower and hunt for all the best-decorated houses!

Brea : The holiday decorations never disappoint in the Eagle Hills neighborhood. You can find the festive neighborhood by entering on East Birch and South Starflower Streets or on East Lambert Road and Sunflower Street. About 100 homes put out their best holiday lights and decor, so you’ll have plenty to see. In this area, which you can walk or drive, you’ll find lights, live music, decorations, and even live nativity scenes. And make sure you don’t miss Primrose Street!

Buena Park : Another great spot to drive through is the 8400 block of Santa Berta Way—the cross streets are Crescent and Western.

Pick Out Your Tree

If you celebrate the season with a Christmas tree, then check out the special tree lots that open around the area during the holiday season.

Christmas Tree Village : This seasonal tree shop in La Palma has trees and more. You’ll find fresh fir trees grown in Oregon, preservatives to keep your tree fresh through the season, stands, and more.

Deluca Farm : Locally owned, this family-run tree lot in San Pedro makes shopping for a tree fun. In addition to fun activities for kids, the lot hosts a Christmas tree lighting with Santa, food trucks, vendors, and more. Watch the lot’s Facebook page for details.

Peltzer Pines : This 50-year-old Christmas tree institution, with Brea and Silverado Canyon locations, isn’t a lot with cut trees. It’s an actual tree farm! The trees are growing there, so you pick your living tree and someone cuts it down for you. Or, if you want, you can experience the magic of cutting your own Christmas tree! Tree varieties include Leyland cypress and Monterey pine trees.

Do Some Seasonal Shopping

Shopping and the holiday season go hand in hand. Besides deals on Amazon and at your local mall and shopping center, there are special holiday boutiques where you’ll find one-of-a-kind items.

Promenade at Downey : Promenade at Downey is a 77-acre retail power center located in Downey, California. It is a perfect location for Christmas shopping, as it offers a unique blend of specialty retailers and restaurants. The mall features a variety of stores, including Walmart, Cinemark Multicinema, Burlington, ULTA Beauty, Five Below, TJ Maxx, and HomeGoods. The mall is open seven days a week and is open most of the day. Promenade at Downey is a great place to find gifts for your loved ones this holiday season.

Sugar Plum Christmas Arts & Crafts Festival : The Sugar Plum Festival is full of seasonal arts and crafts as well as gifts, accessories, jewelry, collectibles, and more! The festival will only run November 29–December 2, so don’t miss it! Come and see the amazing talents and creations of the local community at this beautiful holiday festival!

Check Out a Holiday Event

’Tis the season for holiday activities in Bellflower and beyond. Check out these festive happenings.

Knott’s Merry Farm : This year’s Christmas celebration lasts through January 7 at Knott’s Berry Farm. The entire park transforms into a winter wonderland with jumbo snowflakes, twinkling lights, garland, and more. If you’re looking for entertainment, there’s the Home for the Holidays musical revue and the ice skating show, Merry Christmas, Snoopy! If you get hungry, you’ll find specialty food items that are only available during the holiday season. There’s also a nightly tree lighting ceremony, light show in Camp Snoopy, Santa’s Christmas Cabin, Christmas Crafts Village, and more.

Candy Caneland & Craft Faire : Delighting people for over 50 years, this festival has something for everyone. There will be snow slides, craft booths, food, snow play, raffles, games, Santa, and more! The event is scheduled for Saturday, December 9, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Ehlers Events Center.

Cruise at the Beach : For a holiday activity that’s a little different, check out Cruise at the Beach Christmas Car and Bike Show in Redondo Beach. In addition to cars, the event features a Santa booth and activities for kids, live music, a raffle, and a toy and charity drive. The car show is from 12 to 6 p.m. on Saturday, December 9.

Remember to Be Safe

Don’t forget about safety while you’re enjoying all the holiday activities in Bellflower and around the area. Candles can set the holiday mood, but they also can be dangerous. According to the National Fire Protection Association , candles start 20 home candle fires each day, and the peak day for those fires is Christmas. If you decide to light a candle to get into the holiday spirit, please do so responsibly: Remember to keep them at least 12 inches from anything flammable, and never leave them unattended.

Remember safety when you’re decorating and enjoying your Christmas tree. When you’re stringing the lights, don’t use a string that has a broken or worn cord, never light candles on the tree, and only use lights that are listed by a qualified testing lab. Also, turn them off before you leave or go to bed.

There’s a long list of holiday activities in Bellflower and the surrounding area, so it’s the perfect time to get out and explore everything the area has to offer. You’ll discover Christmas tree lightings, the ideal place to find a Christmas tree, seasonal markets, and special holiday events. From everyone at Northwind Apartments , we hope you have a safe, fun, and magical holiday season!

Summer Activities You Won’t Want to Miss in Bellflower, California

Fri, 01 Jul 2022 19:18:00 GMT

3 Easy Ways to Make Your Apartment Comfortable for Your Pet

Wed, 15 Sep 2021 20:21:00 GMT

Americans love having a furry companion in their home. A recent survey found that about 85 million households have a pet, totaling nearly 184 million cats and dogs. From pampered pooches to cats that allow humans to coexist with them, our pets have a special place in our homes.

Naturally, pet owners will go to great lengths to ensure their home is welcoming for their animal companions. Aside from your love, your pets actually have some simple needs to keep them happy. Here are some ways to make sure your pet-friendly apartment in Bellflower, California, is comfortable for your pet.

Give Animals Their Own Space

As snuggly as your fluffy pup and silky kitty are, they don’t always want to curl up on your lap. Animals need their own space , whether they sleep in a crate at night or just have a soft bed on the floor. Give them a place of their own to get away from the humans when they want. They’ll want a comfortable location where they feel safe and secure. Food and water should also be in a calm spot where they don’t feel a need to protect it.

At Northwind’s pet-friendly apartments in Bellflower, California, you’ll find you have plenty of space to spare for your pet. With our one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartments, you can even give them a room of their own if you wish.

Remove Hazards

Puppies and kitties love to play, and they can get themselves hurt even in your apartment. Make your apartment comfortable and safe by removing any hazards that could injure or sicken your pets. Move items they shouldn’t chew on or scratch up, and put away food properly. These precautions will save your pet from apartment hazards, and they will also save your possessions from your curious little friend.

Bring On the Toys

Bored pets can get into mischief pretty easily, especially smart animals that want to explore and learn about the world around them. Cats , dogs , and even little critters need something to keep them occupied, especially while you are away at work. Give them a variety of toys they’ll enjoy – including some to chew on, some activity toys, and even some yummy treats for their tummy.

Bring your pets home to a pet-friendly apartment in Bellflower, California, at Northwind. Our pet amenities are second to none, and you’ll love making your apartment a comfortable place for your pet to live.

How to Soak Up Summer Activities in Bellflower, California

Fri, 23 Jul 2021 19:24:00 GMT

Did you know that July is National Ice Cream Month ? Not only is summer the perfect time to enjoy some cold and sweet treats like ice cream, but it also presents several opportunities to soak up the summer sun with a variety of fun activities. Summer is in full bloom, which means it’s the perfect time to plan your bucket list and find a few ways to get the most out of the beautiful weather and sunshine in California.

Are you ready to enjoy summer and soak up extra time in the sun? Located just minutes from Northwind Apartment Homes , these three summer activities in Bellflower are a few of our favorite things to do. Keep reading to find out more.

Become Acquainted with the Best Beaches in the Area

If you’re in search of beaches near Bellflower, there are a number of beautiful options in the area. Long Beach , Huntington Beach , and Newport Beach are all less than an hour away, making them the perfect day trip destinations for time out in the sun and the sand.

Beaches present a variety of fun summer activities that are sure to keep you occupied. Between water activities like wakeboarding, boating, and surfing, and more relaxing activities like lounging on the sand with a good book and some sunscreen, you can easily spend an entire day at one of the beaches near Bellflower.

Soak in the Pool at the Bellflower Aquatic Center

Don’t want to travel too far to take a dip in the water? No worries— Bellflower Aquatic Center is a great place to go practice your swimming skills and swim a few laps in a pool. Not only do they have open lap pools available to the public, but they also offer classes like water aerobics and children’s lessons.

They also have an outdoor pool open for use, so you don’t have to compromise time in the sun to take advantage of the water. Whether you want to stop by for a quick dip, to exercise, or to take a class, the Bellflower Aquatic Center offers some fun and exciting summer activities in Bellflower.

Go for a Hike to a Waterfall

One of the best parts of living in California is the beautiful landscape and stunning views of the sea, mountains, waterfalls, and forests. This makes hiking one of our favorite summer activities in Bellflower! Regardless of your skill level, there is sure to be a hike that appeals to you and what you want to see.

For example, we personally always love a good hike to a waterfall . Here are a few of our favorite hikes near Bellflower:

Get out and escape into nature with a local hike—you are sure to feel reinvigorated. Let us know what your favorite hikes are in the area.

There are so many ways you can enjoy summertime in Bellflower and soak up the extra time in the sun and outside. Whether you want to take a trip to the beach, enjoy a local pool, or go for a hike, spending some time doing what you love will help you have the best summer yet! After you experience a few of these activities, we know you’ll fall in love with Bellflower.

Northwind Apartment Homes offers one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartments for rent in Bellflower, California.

Image courtesy of Nicole G. on Yelp

Why You Should Start Paying Rent Online If You Aren’t Already

Thu, 10 Jun 2021 22:22:00 GMT

There are more benefits to online rent than how convenient it is. It can also help you improve your credit score! In 2017, TransUnion studied 12,000 renters who reported their rent payments to credit bureaus over the course of a year. The study found that renters’ scores rose an average of 16 points within just six months, with those who started with a credit score below 620 seeing the greatest improvement.

Do you want to see a similar increase in your credit score? You can do just that by paying your rent online, which shows credit bureaus what they are looking for, ensures your payments are reported, and can combine with credit card payments to increase your score even more. Here’s how.

Shows Credit Bureaus What They Are Looking For

There are several things that go into a credit score, and it is continuously updated with new information based on your activity. Experian determines credit scores through the following elements :

So, when you pay rent online, those payments become part of your payment history. This can then help improve your credit score as you pay on time and in full. Plus, the more on-time payments you have, the more your credit score will improve.

Helps You Report Your Rent Payments

While just paying your rent will not necessarily help you build credit, reporting your rent payments will. According to Bev O’Shea at NerdWallet, this is especially helpful if you are new to credit or have a low credit score.

So how can you report on your rent payments? At Northwind Apartments , we have an online rent payment system that automatically reports information to the credit bureaus, which gives them easy and real-time access to your timely rental payments. In turn, this will improve your credit score.

Combines with Credit Card Payments for Higher Score Gains

Using a credit card to pay your online rent can improve your credit score even more. If you need a big boost to your score, consider opening a credit card that you only use to pay your rent, then pay the credit card balance in full every month. According to LaToya Irby , credit expert for The Balance, “the timely credit card payments will help boost your credit score.”

It’s not necessary to pay your rent with a credit card, but it can be a nice little boost to your credit score in combination with the other benefits associated with paying online rent.

Improve your credit score by paying your rent online through the resident portal . As you do so, your payments are reported to credit bureaus, showing them exactly what they are looking for. Plus, if you choose to pay rent with a credit card, you may increase your score even more. Good luck with the credit score boosting!

AMC Holds Memorial Tree Planting to Honor the Lives of Three Outstanding Employees

Thu, 20 May 2021 20:07:00 GMT

On Thursday, April 22, three AMC properties held memorial tree planting services to celebrate the lives of three beloved and outstanding employees: Salvador Saenz (Serena Vista Apartments in Fountain Valley), Efren Diaz (Countrywood Apartments in Redlands), and Tuesday Beard (Lakewood Manor Apartments in Lakewood).

Salvador was an incredible individual. For 12 years, he came to work with a positive attitude and a smile on his face. He was always willing to lend a helping hand. From carrying our residents’ groceries to assisting them with their needs, Salvador lived a life of excellence and kindness.

Efren graced our company with his friendly personality, contagious smile, and strong values. His dedication to our residents shone through his actions and words. He was considered the heart and soul of every job because he had no enemies—only brothers, sisters, and friends—and he was an example to us all.

Tuesday Beard was a talented, kind, and dedicated woman loved by every member of her team at Lakewood. After she was hired as a leasing consultant in December of 2017, she quickly gained the recognition she deserved for her hard work and dedication to the community when she won Leasing Consultant of the Year for 2018.

These individuals have positively impacted the lives of so many VIPs across several AMC properties. We are honored to have known and worked alongside them. The beautiful trees we planted are reminders of the amazing legacy they left with us. May we cherish their memory always. Thank you, Salvador, Efren, and Tuesday, for your wonderful examples and kind spirits.

There Is No Better Apartment for Green Living Than Northwind

Thu, 20 May 2021 18:57:00 GMT

How many times do you wash your hands or do dishes each day? Each minute you keep the faucet running, you waste 2.5 gallons of water ! Other everyday activities that use the most water are showering, flushing toilets, and washing clothes. Water scarcity affects every continent and one-fifth of the world’s population. Southern California is one of the many areas that can face severe droughts.

At Northwind Apartment Homes, we value green living and want to do all we can to care for our beautiful earth—not just by preserving water, but also by reducing unnecessary waste. Here are three ways we live green at Northwind!

Conserving Water

Since Bellflower is prone to droughts, we do all we can to save on water. To start, our property has drought-tolerant landscaping full of common desert plants that don’t require much water. We also installed a drip irrigation system and replaced some grass and mulch areas with beautiful stone, allowing us to save gallons of water every day!

Indoors, we save on water with our plumbing system. We have low-flow toilets, which use about 20 percent less water than regular toilets. Each low-flow toilet can surprisingly save up to 13,000 gallons of water per year.

Saving on Plastic and Paper

At Northwind Apartment Homes, we go paperless by doing rent payments, service requests, applications, and notices online. Not only is it a win for the earth by eliminating unnecessary paper waste, but it is also a win for our residents! Many of our residents love the convenience of completing payments online.

In our community, we strive to provide quality services to help make your life as a resident a little easier. Visit our new resident portal to pay your rent online, enter a maintenance service request, browse our calendar for upcoming activities, and much more!

In addition to being paperless, we have water bottle refill stations throughout the property, significantly reducing the waste from plastic water bottles.

Encouraging Recycling

One of the best ways we promote green living is through recycling. We have recycling bins in our office, and we encourage all residents to recycle as well. For those who are new to recycling, below are some common items to recycle .

Never recycle food, liquid, plastic bags, plastic wrap, or cups with wax or plastic coating. If you have recyclable items on hand, you can drop them off at Bellflower Recycling Center on Woodruff Avenue. Doing so can make a big difference for our planet.

We’re Excited to Announce Organic Waste Recycling!

Organic waste recycling will be coming soon to our local community, and we can’t wait to participate! This initiative will help keep millions of pounds of food waste out of landfills and turn them into compost and renewable natural gas. We’ll keep you up to date as this program expands throughout the state.

We want to do everything we can to encourage green living among our staff and residents. If you are looking for a community that cares as much about the earth as you do, Northwind Apartment Homes is calling your name!

Northwind Has Apartments for Rent in Bellflower! Here’s Why You Should Choose Us

Thu, 08 Apr 2021 19:23:00 GMT

Located in southeast Los Angeles County, Bellflower is a metropolitan area that runs by the motto “Growing Together.” Named after the bellflower apple, which was commonly grown in local orchards during the 1900s, Bellflower is known for its diverse neighborhoods and rich culture. The Northwind Apartments are no exception, boasting a variety of amenities, clean and pleasant residents, and bright, well-kept living spaces.

Looking for a place to live? For charming and modern apartments for rent in Bellflower, consider Northwind. Our stellar amenities and modern, safe living spaces are sure to make win you over.

Stellar Amenities

Step onto the grounds, and the Northwind Apartments in Bellflower instantly feel like home. The cheery yellow doors complement the charcoal exterior of the buildings, decorated with mini-pitched roofs. The walkways are clean and well-kept and feature several areas to relax, grill, and entertain. The greenery is trimmed, lush, and adds to the overall aesthetic. Not to mention, the 24/7 on-site maintenance staff is welcoming and quick to assist with any problems. Most importantly, the Northwind Apartments are pet-friendly—we understand how important your pets are to you and your family, so fish, turtles, dogs, cats, and bunnies rejoice!

Northwind Apartments also offers its residents the following amenities:

Our residents love having so many stellar amenities on site. We do our best to ensure you live happily and feel at home at the Northwind Apartments for rent in Bellflower.

Modern Living Spaces

The interior of our units is bright and cheery, with large windows, white cabinets, and modern floor plans that meet every individual’s needs. Choose between a one-, two-, or three-bedroom apartment or a two-bedroom townhome. Each unit includes an electric-range oven, dishwasher, garbage disposal, ceiling fans, blinds, air-conditioning, and a doorbell.

Also, our community boasts enhanced security measures with gated entry and plans in place for any emergency. You can rest assured that our staff has your best interest in mind, always. From a squeaky door to a stubborn appliance, our 24/7 on-site maintenance team is here to help. We’ll also follow up to ensure everything is running smoothly after the fact.

If you are looking for apartments for rent in Bellflower, look no further than Northwind. With excellent amenities, convenient features, and a great location in sunny California, the Northwind Apartments check all the boxes for the perfect place to call home. For current availability, contact our team today!

Three Local Restaurants to Try in Bellflower

Wed, 10 Mar 2021 20:58:00 GMT

It’s the time of year when people are usually planning summer trips to Europe, Asia, or other places they have been dreaming of going. While you might not be traveling abroad any time soon due to the current pandemic, you can still enjoy an authentic culinary experience from countries around the world—without even leaving town! Bellflower boasts restaurants of various cuisines, anywhere from Greece to Indonesia.

During this challenging time, some of the best local businesses to support are the restaurants. So this spring, instead of making plans to travel to Italy or Japan, you can support local businesses by trying out the multicultural restaurants we have in town. Here are three options to check out.

Bellko Korean BBQ

Sit outside and enjoy authentic Korean food made from fresh local ingredients. Bellko Korean BBQ is open for outdoor dining, takeout, and delivery. Their menu offers a variety of meat and protein dishes, including short ribs, beef brisket, and tofu steak, all served with rice and salad. With a talented and experienced chef, a traditional menu, and a focus on quality ingredients, Bellko Korean BBQ will not disappoint.

Toko Rame Indonesian Halal

If you have never had Indonesian food, Toko Rame is the place to try. There, you can get dishes such as sate padang, martabak telor, bakmi (noodles), chicken satay, and tofu salad. They are open for takeout and delivery, so be adventurous and try something new without even leaving your home!

Ricci’s Italian Restaurant

Get away to Italy for an evening at Ricci’s Italian Restaurant . Their extensive menu has a wide range of Italian specialties, including calzones, ravioli, fettuccine, and veal. Not only is their food delicious, but their friendly service will make you feel like family. They are open for takeout and outdoor dining, so try it out for an authentic experience that will make you feel like you are at home in Italy.

Despite the pandemic and travel restrictions, trying different multicultural restaurants like these will add more adventure to your routine. You will also be helping to support local businesses that will continue to provide great food services even after the pandemic is over. So, go out and enjoy the interesting restaurants right around us in Bellflower, or have them bring the food right to your home for a delicious international experience!

Three Benefits of Goal Setting

Thu, 21 Jan 2021 17:51:00 GMT

Looking for more motivation? What about more ownership of your life or more positive emotions? Goal setting might be the key! Keep reading to learn about the three benefits of goal setting.

More Motivation

There’s nothing like goal setting to help you get to where you ultimately want to go! Especially when you face setbacks that might ordinarily derail you.

“Not completing a goal can feel like a failure, but in truth, these setbacks are a part of long-term success,” according to Healthie . “Talking through the setbacks, and creating new goals to help address these underlying issues, will allow [people] to break down their barriers to change and create sustainable change.”

The way you talk to yourself can help you stick to your goals when you’re having a hard time. For example, you might choose to say something like this to yourself: “I’m never going to get up early consistently. I will never have the motivation to get all my chores done early enough so I can go to bed on time and then wake up when my alarm goes off.”

Instead, say something like this: “I’m not where I want to be yet. I’ve been struggling with going to bed early and waking up early, but I’m working on it.” This way of thinking about things will help you stay motivated to stick to your goal.

More Ownership

“When you set goals, you are saying ‘This is what I want to accomplish. This is what I’m going to do,’” says Thomas R. Harris at The Exceptional Skills . “You are stating what you want and doing something about it. You are taking responsibility for yourself.”

Instead of relying on fate, goal setting gives you ownership over your life, even if you are experiencing hardships. For example, let’s say you have a goal to write a book by the end of the year, but you get carpal tunnel syndrome in February, and typing becomes really difficult. Instead of giving up on writing, your goal can motivate you to find creative solutions, and you can still make progress! (Even if your novel turns into a short story.)

More Positive Emotions

Accomplishing things without having specific goals is good, but when you set goals and accomplish those, that’s even better! It gives you a nice mood boost.

“The dopamine release you get from achieving your goals is like a little reward for our brains that continually motivates us to try and hit that next goal!” says Mark Lynch at Lifehack. “Having some clearly defined goals will help you to feel better about yourself and your life in general, especially when you stick to those goals, actively work towards achieving them, and end up accomplishing and surpassing your initial expectations.”

Goal setting can help you enjoy your life more, especially when you really absorb the sense of direction and purpose that comes with it.

At Northwind Apartment Homes , it is our goal to help our residents live happy! We encourage you to set goals with us to feel more motivated, have more ownership, and experience more positive emotions. Let’s make 2021 our own!

Everything You Need to Know About Pets at Northwind

Wed, 23 Dec 2020 21:28:00 GMT

From furry dogs with wet, pink noses to striped orange cats and colorful, feathered birds, pets are one of life’s greatest joys. In addition to being cute, cuddly, and pretty, pets, according to the CDC, “increase fitness, lower stress, and bring happiness to their owners. ” Specific health benefits of owning a pet according to include decreased blood pressure, decreased cholesterol, and decreased feelings of loneliness.

At Northwind Apartment Homes, we recognize and appreciate these health benefits! That is why we are pet-friendly and consider all pets as members of our Northwind family. Continue reading to learn more about why pet-owning is such a breeze at our community.

Favorable Pet Policies

We welcome all types of reasonable pets: dogs, cats, rodents, and so many others! Hamsters, guinea pigs, birds, reptiles, or any other small pets must be caged and kept in a sanitary condition. As for dogs, we have a 50-pound weight limit and breed restrictions due to size and behavior traits. That means small- to medium-sized dogs that are not on our restricted breed list are welcome at our community. Whether it is a playful bark, a soft meow, or a song-like chirp, we love seeing our residents’ animals!

Spacious Living

Northwind offers a wide range of floor plans for our residents. From our one-bedroom apartment to our townhome and our three-bedroom apartment, there is plenty of living space for you and your furry companion. In addition to our roomy apartments, there are areas within the community for your fur baby to run and play in. For example, our courtyards have plush grass and green trees, offering the perfect amount of comfort and shade for Fido! We even have stations for disposing of pet waste throughout the property, making clean up easy.

Convenient Location

If you find that your pet is adventurous and loves exploring new spots, consider visiting a nearby park so your furry pet can run until their heart desires (or until their legs get tired!). Bellflower City Caruthers Park is a short five-minute walk or an 18-minute drive from Northwind. If you have a few hours to spare, Rosie’s Dog Beach , which has over 5,000 Google reviews and a rating of 4.7 stars, is calling your cute pup’s name! Who doesn’t love sandy paws and salty kisses?

Pets offer so many emotional and physical health benefits to their owners. Reap these benefits and live happy by bringing your furry companion to Northwind Apartment Homes! You and your pet will love our favorable pet policies, spacious apartments, and nearby parks and beaches. We know it!

Renting Has Never Been More Popular. Here’s Why

Fri, 23 Oct 2020 14:45:00 GMT

Renting has never been more popular. There are more renters in the United States now than ever since 1965 , making up 34 percent of America’s general population. And that percentage continues to rise.

More people are recognizing the benefits of renting, and while those reasons vary, it usually comes down to three: renting can be less expensive than buying, it comes with less responsibility, and it provides a more flexible lifestyle.

Renting Is Less Expensive

Right off the bat, your upfront costs for buying a home are higher than renting. Often, your down payment is 20 percent or more of the total purchase prices. Once you buy a home, there are a variety of unexpected expenses. Maintenance, insurance, taxes, and more add up and can vary month to month. And of course, there can be surprise expenses lurking around the corner ready to pop out. Then, over time, homeowners have to pay property taxes and home insurance to maintain their property.

On the other hand, renting is a set cost every month. When renting, you only need to pay a security deposit, usually equal to one month’s rent, which will be returned to you (as long as you don’t damage your space). Unlike homeowners, renters don’t have to pay property taxes, and their rent insurance is fairly inexpensive ( $180 per year on average ). These reasons alone probably explain why 82 percent of renters in 2019 said renting is more affordable than owning, jumping up from 67 percent the year before

Renting Removes Some Responsibility

If the dishwasher in your unit breaks or potato peels are accidentally shoved down the garbage disposal, it’s nice to know that you’re taken care of and that someone else is responsible for making repairs. For example, at Northwind Apartments, we have knowledgeable and friendly staff who are trained and certified to make repairs. When you report that something is broken or needs repair, our team will be there to address the issue. That’s much easier than making a trip to the hardware store!

Renting Is Flexible

One of the greatest benefits of renting is the freedom it gives you to live wherever you want. Mortgages can tie you down for 30 years, but renting is relatively short. According to Robert Pinnegar at The Washington Post , “Mobility is one of the top reasons people decide to rent. . . For millennials just entering the workforce or in the process of building their careers, the ability to relocate is a major factor. Even if they are in a financial position to purchase a home, millennials may choose to rent to have the flexibility to take advantage of new job opportunities as they arise.”

While we aren’t eager to say goodbye, we want to make sure you are always taken care of that. That is why we have a loyalty bonus: If you move from Northwind to another AMC property or vice versa, we’ll give you $250 to help you hit the ground running.

With fewer costs, less responsibility, and more freedom, there’s no reason why renting shouldn’t be gaining in popularity. At Northwind Apartments, we want to make coming home the best part of your day; give us a visit and see what the benefits of renting can do for you.

Why Friendship Is Important and How to Celebrate Your Friends

Tue, 15 Sep 2020 19:59:00 GMT

Everyone has heard the saying, “blood is thicker than water,” but have you ever heard the full saying?

“The blood of the covenant is thicker than the water of the womb.” It alludes to the bonds soldiers would make during battle being stronger than those tied to them by genetics. And, in a sense, that tends to hold true for most everyday people.

According to a multitude of studies , friendships can “lower stress levels; improve mood; encourage positive health behaviors and discourage damaging ones; boost cardiovascular health; improve illness recovery rates; and aid virtually everything in between.”

The relationships that you build with your friends are strong and can bring you so much joy and carry you through the hardest of times, and they can even improve your health. That’s why it is important to celebrate your friends. Here are a few ways to show your friends that you care.

1. Connect with technology.

Many people connect with their friends via social media; why not take it a step further and plan a Zoom ladies’ night or a Skype study session? Seeing your friends face-to-face virtually is a great way to hang out while maintaining social distancing. You can also enjoy company without having to prepare your home to host. That’s a win-win situation!

2. Send it in a letter.

While it may seem dated, taking the time to send a letter shows a person how much you care. Rather than sending a quick text or leaving a voicemail, you can send your friends words that you’ve sat down and given thought to. Not to mention, many people keep handwritten letters and cards as mementos of their relationships with other people.

3. Perform random acts of kindness.

Did you know random acts of kindness can let your friends and loved ones know that you’re thinking of them? Taking the time out of your day to bring a friend lunch or help them run errands shows how much you care for them.

We all need to fall back on our friends from time to time. So, celebrate your friends! Simple actions that take you ten minutes or less can make your friends feel appreciated and loved.

Want to Know How to Build Credit? Pay Rent Online

Fri, 07 Aug 2020 11:40:00 GMT

For many of us, a healthy credit score can seem like a far-off goal. That rating will help determine the type of car we can afford or our options for purchasing a future home. While paying bills on time is key to credit score growth, there’s another way that is often overlooked: You could try to pay rent online.

In 2017, TransUnion studied 12,000 renters who reported their rent payments to credit bureaus over the course of a year. The study found that renters’ scores rose an average of 16 points within six months, and the benefit was greatest for those who started with a credit score below 620.

It doesn’t take a mountain of effort to pay rent online is easy. But to ensure it counts toward your credit score, make sure to take two important steps.

Make sure your payments are reported correctly.

While property managers are quick to report renters who fail to pay their rent, many often don’t think about sharing a positive payment history with the major credit bureaus unless you ask.

“While property managers and companies that process rent payments are reporting such data more frequently than they used to, it’s still not a standard practice. And many landlords that own only a small number of properties don’t take this step,” explains Christine DiGangi of credit.com. “Each of the three major credit reporting agencies— Equifax, Experian and TransUnion—will include positive rent payment history on credit reports if they receive it.”

So how do you make sure your rent payments are reported? At Northwind Apartments, we offer an online rental payment system that reports information to the credit bureaus. That way, credit bureaus receive a record of your on-time payments whenever you pay rent online, which contributes to your good credit. In order to opt in for the credit reporting, follow these steps:

Use a credit card to make online rental payments.

By setting aside a credit card exclusively to pay rent online, you can add to your credit score through positive reporting from your landlord and build up a positive payment history on your credit card.

“Open a credit card and use it to pay your rent . . . then pay your credit card balance in full each month,” says LaToya Irby, credit expert for The Balance. “The timely credit card payments will help boost your credit score.”

You don’t have to pay your rent with a credit card, but it can be a nice little boost to your credit score in combination with the benefits of paying your rent online. The trick is to pay off your credit card in full each month.

Give your credit score a boost and pay rent online through our resident portal . As you do so, we’ll report those payments to the credit bureaus. Plus, if you choose to pay rent with a credit card, you may increase your score even more. These two steps will have a positive impact on your credit score, thus opening the financial door to a great credit score today for future financial dreams.

Delicious Tips for Making the Best Ice Cream Sundae

Thu, 23 Jul 2020 02:41:00 GMT

Did you know the average American eats around 23 pounds of ice cream every year? And surveys show an ice cream sundae is one of the most popular ways to eat this frozen delight.

Whether you are a fan of hot fudge or clammer for caramel, constructing the perfect sundae is a matter of personal taste and experimentation. In this article, we’ll share a fantastic recipe for homemade ice cream for the best ice cream sundae before discussing toppings and special additions.

Start with Homemade Ice Cream at the Bottom

The one thing we can all agree on is starting with a scoop (or three) of homemade ice cream is worth screaming about. Here is a quick and easy recipe for vanilla ice cream:

Begin by whisking the yolks and sugar together until smooth. Then, pour milk into a saucepan and heat over medium-low heat. Just as the milk begins to simmer, add the egg and sugar mixture gradually, stirring constantly. Heat the mixture until it reaches 165º F, remove from heat, and store in the refrigerator in an airtight container. Once it has chilled, you’ll be ready to add the cream and vanilla. From there, you’ll need an ice cream maker to take it the rest of the way.

Add Toppings

According to ranker.com , the top five most popular ice cream sundae toppings are as follows:

1. Oreo

2. Chocolate syrup

3. Brownie bits

4. Whipped cream

5. Caramel syrup

Need creative ideas on how to stack your favorite toppings? Cravings Ice Cream and Somerset Scoops in Bellflower are both masters at designing the ultimate frozen indulgence. For a refreshing twist, try adding fresh berries or pineapple on top of vanilla ice cream. Or use fruit puree as a sauce.

Throw in a Homemade Baked Cookie Treat

The sad thing about ice cream sundaes is that they are gone too soon. By adding a fun ice cream sundae cookie, you can savor dessert a little longer. Head over to Half Baked Harvest for a delicious recipe for ice cream sundae cookies.

Few things say summer more deliciously than ice cream sundaes. And with so many tasty topping ideas, the only thing holding you back from creating the ultimate frozen creation is your imagination.

4 Key Ingredients for Awesome Smoothies Every Time

Wed, 17 Jun 2020 04:38:00 GMT

What’s not to love about smoothies? They are portable, packed with nutrients, colorful, and easy to make. You can personalize your smoothie anyway you like, but to ensure you are getting the most out of your smoothie, here are four key ingredients not to miss!

1. Fresh Ingredients

We want our daily smoothie to be delicious as well as nutritious. That means starting with fresh fruits and vegetables. To keep your smoothie indulgence affordable, use produce that is in season. Fortunately for us, the area around Bellflower offers fresh ingredients all year round. So take advantage of that goodness by starting with fresh, seasonal ingredients.

2. A Great Blender

While a blender may not qualify as an ingredient, the quality of your blender makes a huge difference in the consistency of your smoothie. If you’ve committed to drinking smoothies regularly, it may be time to invest in a high-powered Vitamix or Blendtec machine. The Ninja Ultima is another great choice with a more affordable price point.

3. Superfoods

If you want to get the most out of your smoothie, don’t forget to add a power-packed ingredient like kale, chia seeds, a shot of wheatgrass, or a dash of apple cider vinegar. These small doses of superfoods will help you get the most bang out of your blends. For some tasty ideas, check out Movita Juice Bar in Downey for a huge selection of juices and smoothies, all made with fresh ingredients.

4. Frozen Juice or Fruit

For the most satisfying texture, you need to chill out. That’s right: Adding frozen fruit or vegetables instead of ice will give your smoothie an appealing, flavorful texture that will get you hooked. Try frozen spinach, kale, or frozen peas. It’s easy (and often cheaper) to purchase frozen bags of vegetables and fruit. Don’t worry, though: They still contain essential nutrients. And if your seasonal selections are a bit limited, frozen foods offer a tantalizing selection of flavors.

A delicious frozen smoothie is a great way to start your day or to keep you going strong when the days seem long. And when you add fresh ingredients, some power-packed superfoods, a little chill, and mix it up in a powerful blender for a full consistency, you’ve got a secret weapon for better health in your hands.

3 Features to Help Your Apartment Feel More Like a Home

Mon, 01 Jun 2020 19:11:00 GMT

Have you ever looked around your apartment and wondered, “How can I make this feel more like a home?” If you have just moved in, chances are you could be asking yourself that question right now. Even if your new space is beautiful, it’s not uncommon to feel not quite right . . . yet.

Sometimes, however, all it takes is a little bit of color, some curtains or shades, or maybe even some plants to bring that spirit back in. Here are three aesthetic features you can implement that can help convert your apartment into a home you can enjoy.

Color makes all the difference.

Every year, the paint industry announces popular color trends from around the world. These reports are full of decorating ideas and intriguing photos, which you can use to find a style and color that fits you. Once you’ve found it, incorporate it into your apartment. You don’t even need to paint the walls, either. You can buy furniture that fits your chosen color scheme or hang artwork. It’s all about adding accents to your apartment that you love so that you feel more at home.

Window coverings are where it’s at.

Blinds and window curtains can play an important part in your home, even if you don’t realize it. Apart from providing privacy, lighting versatility, and climate control, they can provide an intimate and personal feel that can be unique to your home. Wayfair.com has a great guide to helping you not only choose what curtains are right for you, but also learn how to install and take care of them.

Plants help you feel at ease.

When you bring houseplants into your spaces, you’re not just adding new greenery. Plants are living, breathing organisms that interact with your mind, body, and home in ways that can enhance the quality of your apartment life. Among other things, plants can help you breathe easier by purifying your air, which helps improve your overall health—which can, in turn, make it easier to feel comfortable in your home. Not to mention plants simply look wonderful around the apartment.

Sometimes all it takes to convert an apartment into a home is some color, curtains, or plants. These additions, with just a little bit of love and tender care, can get your apartment feeling like a home in no time.

What All Pet Owners Should Know about Dog Waste

Thu, 28 May 2020 18:56:00 GMT

Rosie is starting to whine and scratch at the door. It must be time for a walk, but with a conference call in 15 minutes, do you really have time to follow her and pick up afterward? Or can you just get away with leaving her droppings in a corner of the courtyard and quickly head back inside? Leaving a dog’s poop on the lawn is just adding to the environment, right?

Nope. There are approximately 21 billion pounds of dog waste produced each year from nearly 90 million dogs in the US. In honor of National Pet Month, let’s explore the three important things to remember when taking care of your pet’s business. Each of these three reminders will ensure better health for your pet and the world we live in.

1. Dog droppings are not fertilizer.

Unlike cow manure—which, when mixed with topsoil, is perfect for growing a lush garden—dog poop does not contain plant-fortifying nutrients. Compare the diet of your dog to the diet of a cow. “Dog’s [sic] have a high protein based diet that creates a very acidic excrement or waste product,” explain experts at poop911.com . “Cow manure is in fact good for vegetation because it in fact started out that way.” Pet waste can also take up to a year to decompose, allowing plenty of time for toxins and bacteria to leech into a lawn.

2. Dog waste is loaded with harmful bacteria.

It has been proven that one gram of dog poop contains 23 million fecal bacteria. Even if your pup isn’t ill, “their waste could still carry bacteria and parasites that are harmful to other pets and humans,” says pet expert Jean Marie Bauhaus . “And you don’t need to come into direct contact with dog poop in order to contract an illness from it.” That bacteria can seep into the soil and possibly contaminate public waterways.

3. It stinks.

It doesn’t take long for a favorite drop-off zone to be overrun with pet waste, creating a pile of problems. In addition to the stench , uncollected dog waste attracts rodents, insects, and other germ-carrying pests. While it might seem inconvenient, it really only takes a minute to bag up pet waste and toss it in the trash. That minute can make a huge difference for your health and surroundings.

As we celebrate how much we adore our pets, let’s remember that it’s just as important to take care of the waste our furry friends create as it is to care for our pets themselves.

Add More Spring to Your Apartment with These Four Plants

Tue, 28 Apr 2020 17:28:00 GMT

Spring has arrived, and there’s no better way to officially welcome the burst of vibrancy that comes this time of year than by filling your home with flowers and greenery. If you haven’t fully cultivated your green thumb or the thought of sustaining life brings a sense of fear, don’t worry! There are a number of plant varieties that work well in indoor potted plants, as bright and welcoming flower boxes for your balcony, and even ground cover for that small patch of soil outside your front door. So shake off that fear, grab a trowel, and venture into a new gardening hobby with these four easy-to-care-for plants.

Pansies

Purple, white, and yellow, pansies are the ultimate garden floral for novice gardeners. Not only are these little plants incredibly hearty, but they also bloom from spring into early fall, providing a blast of bright colors. They are easy to transplant and provide instant gratification as a potted plant arrangement. Pansies require some minor maintenance to ensure the plants remain lush and looking full, a perfect primer for the budding gardener.

Herbs

Your kitchen windowsill is an ideal place to grow a beautiful herb garden. Herbs are perfect for satisfying the desire for something fresh and alive in your apartment while also providing you with delicious meal enhancements with a few quick snips. Try growing all the spices needed for a delicious Italian meal like basil, oregano, and parsley. Add in some cilantro, too, to enhance your homemade salsa or Thai dinner.

Succulents

If you’re looking for plants that require little to no maintenance and yet are beautiful, colorful, and incredibly trendy right now, take a look at succulents. These desert dwellers are available in a variety of shapes, sizes, and colors. While they look lush, they need very little water and care. Hens and chicks are great for outdoor pots, while jade, burro’s tail, zebra, and snake plants are all great for indoor pots.

Bamboo

Although sustainable, bamboo sometimes gets a bad rap for often consuming small garden spaces. But when contained to a pot, Chinese bamboo is the perfect plant for fostering a sense of peace and calm. One of the easiest plants to care for, you can place leafy stalks in a vase or pot surrounded by small pebbles or rocks—no dirt required. Simply keep the vessel full of water.

If beautiful spring blossoms and beautifully planted rows of veggies have inspired you to pick up gardening as a new hobby, you now have a list of hearty, easy-to-care-for plants sure to infuse even more of that spring renewal into your home and lifestyle. Welcome to the gardening club, a pastime enjoyed by one in three households .

Looking for the Recipe to Healthy and Happy Living? Try Being More Kind.

Thu, 26 Mar 2020 22:06:00 GMT

Kindness. We just can’t get enough of it. Millions of us click on viral posts of random acts online: people proudly post images of the exorbitant tip left to an unsuspecting waitress or videos of a rescue team saving a horse from drowning. Even today’s workplaces are exploring the emotional effects of kind acts among coworkers.

“Office culture can be cutthroat and competitive, leading to hurtful criticism, lack of collaboration, and miscommunication,” says Dr. Pragya Agarwal . “However, now we are increasingly talking about wellbeing in the workplace, and bringing an authentic quality to our work, being gentle with ourselves, and with others around us.”

Research shows kindness and well-being are closely linked. Although the benefits to the recipients of kind acts are evident, science is uncovering connections between kindness and one’s health and overall happiness.

If you need an incentive to take the high road when you interact with people, here are four healthy and happy rewards for choosing kindness.

1. Improves Heart Health

There’s a reason why kind people are known for having big hearts—literally. According to Dr. David R. Hamilton , the emotional reaction to acts of kindness release the hormone oxytocin.

“Oxytocin causes the release of a chemical called nitric oxide in blood vessels, which dilates (expands) the blood vessels,” explains Hamilton. “This reduces blood pressure and therefore oxytocin is known as a ‘cardioprotective’ hormone because it protects the heart (by lowering blood pressure).” So it seems science proves that having a heart is actually good for it, too.

How can you reap these heart-health benefits? Plenty of studies have shown that social support is associated with better health, including cardiovascular health. So get out there in the community, make friends with your neighbors, and see how it benefits your heart—emotionally and physically.

2. Reduces the Risk of Depression

A study headed by Stephen Post of Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine found that when we share our time, resources, and other selfless acts, everything from life satisfaction to self-realization and physical health is significantly improved. Mortality is delayed, depression is reduced, and wellbeing and good fortune are increased.

At Cedars-Sinai , scientists are studying the links between kindness and increased dopamine levels. As dopamine is known for elevating feelings of euphoria, research is focused on the effects dopamine has on mental health.

“Mindfulness-based therapy is becoming increasingly popular for treating depression, anxiety, and other mental health conditions,” say doctors at Cedars-Sinai. “The therapy is built on mindfulness meditation, documenting your gratitude, and acts of kindness. People being treated in a mindfulness-based therapy program incorporate acts of kindness into their daily routines.”

Essentially, practicing kindness increases your dopamine levels, which ultimately helps improve your overall happiness and health.

3. Reduces Anxiety

In a study published by the University of British Columbia Study , a test group comprised of highly anxious individuals performed at least six acts of kindness a week. After one month, there was a significant increase in positive moods and relationship satisfaction, as well as a decrease in social avoidance in socially anxious individuals. The act itself didn’t need to be big to be effective. Kind acts took larger forms like donating to a favorite charity and small gestures such as putting a quarter in a stranger’s parking meter that was about to expire.

“We found that any kind act appeared to have the same benefit, even small gestures like opening a door for someone or saying ‘thanks’ to the bus driver,” says Dr. Lynn Alden, who led the study. “Kindness didn’t need to involve money or time-consuming efforts, although some of our participants did do such things. Kindness didn’t even need to be ‘face to face.’”

In other words, it isn’t the size of the act that promotes happy feelings but the act itself. When anxiety creeps in, try being more kind. Doing so can help reduce your anxious feelings and replace them with positive ones.

4. May Extend Your Lifespan

Some experts believe one of the keys to a long life is our social network. “What we call loneliness—the feeling that you have no one to turn to, that no one understands you—is a form of stress,” explains Health.com writer Ray Hainer . “And if it becomes chronic, it can wreak havoc on your blood vessels and heart.” With heart disease being the number one killer among Americans, the connection between improved heart health and avoiding stress contributes to a longer life.

Socializing with purpose also has healthy effects. “People who volunteer tend to experience fewer aches and pains,” writes Christine Carter in her book Raising Happiness; In Pursuit of Joyful Kids and Happier Parents. “People 55 and older who volunteer for two or more organizations have an impressive 44% lower likelihood of dying early, and that’s after sifting out every other contributing factor, including physical health, exercise, gender, habits like smoking, marital status and many more. This is a stronger effect than exercising four times a week or going to church.”

Looking for a new strategy for better health and happiness? Try kindness. Studies show that performing kind acts have a positive effect on everything from reducing depression and anxiety to longevity. “We all seek a path to happiness,” says Dr. Waguih William IsHak, a professor of psychiatry at Cedars-Sinai . “Practicing kindness toward others is one we know works.”

The surprisingly wonderful benefits of rental living

Tue, 25 Feb 2020 19:45:00 GMT

If you are considering moving into an apartment, you are not alone. Experts estimate there are just over 43 million renter-occupied housing units in the US. And while renters are renting for a variety of reasons, there are some common perks that renters enjoy.

Here are four of the most common benefits of rental living.

1. Location, location, location

Sometimes, the easiest way to live close to the communities you frequent isn’t to buy property, but to rent. “Renters can live virtually anywhere—a tiny apartment in Greenwich Village or a townhouse in Queens,” says professor of economics Teresa Ghilarducci . “Homeowners are more restricted to neighborhoods they can afford.”

There are certainly times when paying rent over is more expensive than paying a mortgage. For example, many renters will see their lease increase the moment their contract is up for renewal. But in some cases, experts say there are financial advantages to renting in desired locations rather than trying to buy property. “If you live in a market where you can rent an apartment for substantially less per month than you could own a home, you can invest the difference,” explains David Weliver , founder of Money Under 30. “The difference doesn’t have to be huge.”

Weliver presented an example like this: If you compare $1,000 rent per month versus a $1,300 mortgage payment on a comparable home, that generates $3,600 each year that you can save or invest. “And, unlike home equity, those savings are liquid,” added Weliver. “You can use them to build an emergency fund, pay down student loan debt, or fund a retirement account. None of which you can do with home equity.”

2. Awesome amenities

Most of us haven’t included installing an in-ground pool on our to-do list. But that doesn’t mean we wouldn’t enjoy having access to recreational amenities like a swimming pool, a fitness center, or tennis courts. And today’s rental properties are offering even more options to entice would-be renters.

Some of the more popular features include onsite laundry facilities or a washer and dryer within the unit. Many offer cable or satellite television and free Wi-Fi. Others offer fully-furnished units. And as a person just starting out on their own, having options for these types of services can help the transition to apartment living.

3. Flexible career options

The workplace model is changing, with more employees at varying job levels working from their homes. Experts estimate that almost half of the US workforce works remotely. But that also means employees are more mobile. And that is where the convenience of renting a home or apartment works well. Renting gives workers the freedom to move more frequently than they could otherwise. Additionally, some apartment communities offer amenities for workers. In some of our communities, for example, we offer dedicated workspaces, perfect for individuals who work remotely.

Have job, will travel. That’s an effective way to set the pace for job promotion or move to a better job opportunity should the need arise. “You need to be able to credibly leave a job to be well treated by employers,” says Ghilarducci . “Mobile workers can move for a pay raise or to make a career move.”

4. A sense of community

There are varying degrees of socializing among renters. You can be as social or reclusive as you choose; the fact remains that you are sharing common space with other people. Whether it’s the parking lot, the pool area, or the fitness center, apartment living offers a unique opportunity to befriend your neighbors.

“Apartment buildings draw an array of residents and visitors. Your neighbors, their families, their friends, their delivery people, and anyone offering an at-home service will pass through your shared entryway. Your children will learn to share a space with these people—and perhaps even open the door for them,” says Natalie Saaris , writing for Zillow. “While living in an apartment may deprive you of the privacy of a standalone home, the feeling of community may more than compensate for the loss.”

Whether your apartment is a temporary arrangement or a permanent decision, the benefits of apartment living offer pleasant and financially strategic opportunities for you.

Reasons why setting goals is a good thing

Fri, 24 Jan 2020 13:13:00 GMT

Don’t let New Year’s resolution failure fool you. Setting goals is a good thing.

Let’s talk about goals.

Wait! Not New Year’s resolutions. I mean regular, everyday goal setting; those goals that you can (and should) start at any time. Although around 80 percent of us fail to achieve our New Year’s resolutions, setting a goal—a SMART goal—will make you feel better. And in some cases, literally.

A SMART goal is a task based on something Specific, Meaningful, Achievable, Realistic, and Timely. And while resolutions may bite the dust two months after we set them in place, the truth is that almost half of us (40 to 45 percent) continue to make goals for ourselves each year.

We, as humans, struggle with following through on New Year’s resolutions. But the practice of continually setting goals is a good thing. Here are six reasons why.

Do you know how it feels to merely coast through life, where you find yourself simply reacting to things? When you target your energies into achieving a specific goal, you are forcing action.

“ Goal setting helps you align focus with behavior because you get feedback on your progress,” says Forbes contributor Jeff Boss . “The actions you take—or avoid—offer clues about your values, beliefs, challenges, strengths and weaknesses which allow you to course correct as necessary and reset your goal achievement strategy (and subsequently, your focus).”

Goals that truly make an impact are those that are specific and follow a timeline toward completion. For example, instead of making a goal to be thinner, a well-thought-out goal will include a series of smaller goals that encourage weight loss and are arranged over a month, a year, or two even years.

“ Think of your goal as the destination. Now think of each step you take toward that goal as a smaller yet attainable step to get you there,” explains Dave Richards , a performance and leadership coach. “If your goal is to launch a business someday, your smaller steps would include defining your products or services or getting funds to start up.”

There is no better feeling than one of accomplishment. And when you set attainable goals, your success at achieving those goals is an incredible boost to your self-esteem. Keep in mind the operative word here is “attainable.”

“By setting goals and achieving them, you send a signal to your brain that you are successful which builds confidence and pride in yourself and that helps build your self-esteem,” says Jennifer Silvershein . “We all love to feel accomplished and meeting or exceeding your goals does just that.”

By setting up a primary goal, which is your main objective, and secondary goals, which are the stepping stones that move you toward your primary goal, Silvershein believes “you can set yourself up for success with the right mindset and the right tools.”

This process of identifying a primary goal that’s supported by secondary goals boosts your self-image. But it can also stave off mild forms of depression. “ Setting goals and targets can sometimes help when a person is feeling demotivated,” reports Jayne Leonard . “However, it is important to make sure that goals are achievable, specific, and realistic.”

For instance, a goal to no longer be depressed may not be all that successful as a stand-alone goal. But setting a goal that is proven to help treat minor forms of depression, such as to eat two servings of fruits and vegetables every day or exercise daily, makes reducing or eliminating depression an added benefit to your primary goal, which may be losing twenty pounds. This brings us to the next benefit: your health.

Of Inc.com’s ten top New Year’s resolutions of 2019, five dealt with improving our health. So while we may not always follow through on those resolutions, they are certainly on our minds. In fact, out of the 2,000 people surveyed, 71 percent of them wanted to eat healthier in the coming year. Sixty-five percent of those surveyed planned to exercise more, and over half (54 percent) hoped to lose weight. Whether you are a fan of New Year’s resolutions or not, making conscious goals about lifestyle changes will have a positive impact on your overall health.

“Staying engaged in life as you age is essential for your health,” say experts at Harvard Health . “Goals should revolve around a purpose in your life: What matters to you now? What is important?” Once again, setting up a SMART goal will help connect your goals with a meaningful outcome within a specified amount of time. And when it comes to goals about your health, the end result feels great.

Let’s consider for a moment what the process of setting goals is doing. According to research by goal-setting theorists Edwin Locke and Gary Latham, goals not only affect behavior and work performance, but they also ignite a desire to put forth a higher and more persistent effort. And because with every action there’s a reaction, people around you are impacted by your efforts.

For example, if your goals are to be more productive and efficient at work and to manage your time better, you’ll likely return home sooner. Depending on what goals you’ve made regarding your habits at home, your family will benefit from the time you are able to spend with them. Perhaps you’ve made a goal to be more patient or a better listener. Those efforts impact others.

You will likely see similar positive effects if you have a goal to volunteer in your child’s school every month or plant a vegetable garden and share your harvest with neighbors. And as the cycle of goal-setting continues, you’ll be motivated to set more goals because of the positive feedback you receive from those who’ve benefited from your efforts. See? Win-win.

Don’t let the bad publicity surrounding resolutions fool you. Setting goals is a good thing. Nothing else is more effective and empowering than setting goals that improve your health, quality of life, focus, and contributions to the things you care about most. So let’s hear it for the new year and make it a goal to ensure it’s the best one ever.