Tag: property management Austin TX

Mastering Appliance Cleaning for a Sparkling Home at RPM Living

In the world of luxury living, every detail matters, and that includes maintaining the pristine condition of your appliances. As an RPM resident, you're no stranger to the art of refined living. These tips will help ensure that your exquisite living space remains as breathtaking as the day you moved in.

Regular Maintenance

Consistency is key. Schedule regular cleaning sessions for your appliances to prevent dirt and grime buildup.

Gentle Cleaning Solutions

Use mild, non-abrasive cleaning solutions specific to its material to ensure your appliances' surfaces remain unharmed.

Appliance-Specific Cleaning

Each appliance has its cleaning requirements. Consult the manufacturer's guidelines for the best cleaning practices, and find a product that works best for your space, and your budget. Remember: not all cleaning products are REALLY for everything.

Interior Cleaning

For appliances like ovens, microwaves, and refrigerators, deep clean the interior periodically to prevent odors and maintain efficiency. It may not be fun in the moment, but you’ll thank yourself later.

Seamless Stainless Steel

If your appliances feature stainless steel, use specialized stainless steel cleaners to maintain their lustrous shine. Resorting to products that are not safe for stainless steel can cause streaks, smudges, and even rust.

Quick Tips for Common Appliances

Refrigerator

Remove expired items regularly (ideally when you’re taking out the trash), wipe down shelves, and vacuum the condenser coils to prevent buildup from dust, hair, and other grime.

Oven

Use self-cleaning cycles when applicable, and clean spills promptly to prevent baked-on messes. Nobody likes turning the oven on and getting a burning whiff of last night’s oil drips on the bottom rack.

Microwave

Wipe the interior after each use and clean the exterior to maintain a spotless appearance. Prevent spills, splashes, and other messes by always covering your food with a microwave safe container, or even a paper towel to make things easier on yourself.

Dishwasher

Clean the filter regularly and wipe down the door seals to prevent mold growth. If you ever notice an odor coming from your dishwasher, run an empty cycle with vinegar and baking soda to give your drain a deep clean.

Preserving Luxury, One Appliance at a Time

By adopting these cleaning practices in your RPM luxury apartment, you're ensuring that your appliances continue to reflect the elegance and sophistication that your residence embodies:

Your appliances will complement the luxurious ambiance of your property, creating a harmonious living environment.
Regular cleaning prolongs the lifespan of your appliances, saving you maintenance costs in the long run.
A sparkling kitchen filled with well-maintained appliances enhances the overall aesthetics of your RPM luxury living residence.

Experience Extravagance

Let's explore some of the remarkable properties where you can master the art of appliance cleaning:

Auxo at Memorial

Website: Auxo at Memorial

Discover Houston luxury living at its finest with state-of-the-art appliances that deserve meticulous care.

The Westover at West Branch

Website: The Westover at West Branch

Experience a harmonious blend of style and functionality, maintaining the allure of your appliances effortlessly.

San Paloma

Website: San Paloma

Embrace the modern elegance of San Paloma's appliances, ensuring they remain as dazzling as the luxurious setting.

The Keegan at Mission Glen

Website: The Keegan at Mission Glen

Preserve the beauty of your appliances at Keegan at Mission Glen, where sophistication and convenience converge.

Circle at Point Park

Website: Circle at Point Park

Elevate your appliance cleaning routine in a setting that resonates with contemporary luxury.

Remy on the Trails

Website: Remy on the Trails

Revel in the convenience of Remy on the Trails' appliances while mastering the art of maintaining their brilliance.

As an RPM resident, your attention to detail extends beyond the aesthetics of your property to the appliances that make your life easier and more luxurious. By mastering the art of appliance cleaning, you're upholding the essence of refined living in every corner of your home.

Embrace the elegance, sophistication, and pristine beauty of your RPM luxury apartment through meticulous appliance care.

For more recommendations to help find your dream apartment at one of our RPM Living communities across the US, check out our Communities page.

How to Prep Your Apartment for Overnight Guests

If you’re downsizing from a larger home into one of our RPM Living communities, you may be wondering if there is still enough space for hosting overnight guests. If you’ve selected a floor plan that doesn’t have a dedicated guest room, we have some tips to help make it easier for hosting overnight guests. These tips will give your guests a comfortable place to stay while you maintain your own privacy and peace of mind.

Clear Space For Your Guest’s Belongings

Whether it’s a coat rack by the door, bathroom counter space, or a shelf in the hall closet, make sure your guest has space to put their belongings. This will make your guest feel welcomed and prevent clutter from piling up in your shared living spaces while they’re staying at your apartment home. With spacious floor plans like the ones offered at Clover Apartments, the possibilities are endless!

We recommend doing this even if it means moving some of your things to a less convenient location while your guest stays with you. It’s more comfortable for you to be slightly inconvenienced in your own apartment than it is for a visitor trying to settle into someone else’s apartment.

Invest in a Pull-Out Couch

A pull-out couch makes hosting overnight guests much more convenient both for you and for your guest(s). This way, you can visit in your living room during the day but still give your guest a comfy place to sleep at night. Spacious and stylish floor plans like you’ll find at properties like The Lennox are going to be perfect for adaptable furniture such as this! Make sure you have spare linens for the pull-out bed, too!

Pull-out couches can be expensive, so if you’re looking for a little less financial commitment, an air mattress also works.

Take Advantage of Collapsible Furniture

Drop-leaf tables, nesting coffee tables and end tables, folding chairs, and the like help you expand your space to suit more people without adding permanent clutter to your RPM Living apartment. In fact, this tip is useful whether your guests are staying overnight or not; being able to expand the table for a shared dinner, then collapse it to make more room in a spacious living area is a great option to have up your sleeve whenever you want to host friends or family in your apartment home.

Get a Folding Screen for Privacy

Especially if your overnight guest is staying in your living room, offering a little extra privacy can make a huge difference to their comfort and yours as you move through each other’s space. A folding screen can be just the thing you need to give your guest a little of their own space within your apartment and still be able to transition easily between guest mode and guest-free mode. You can easily store a folding privacy screen in a closet for the next time you have guests.

Plan To Spend Time Outside of Your Apartment

There’s no need to spend all your time inside your apartment! Plan some excursions to your favorite places in town, or enjoy an afternoon in a local park. The more time you can spend outside of your apartment, the less frustrating it will be to have limited space to share when you and your guest are both at home.

Be sure to take advantage of the vast community amenities with your guests that we offer at our RPM communities, like the resort style pool at Eastpark Apartments, or the private theater with oversized seating at The Crossings at Canton!

That’s it for our tips for hosting overnight guests! Don’t forget, if you want to shop our RPM Living communities across the US, check out our Communities page.

RPM Living Community Highlights - Austin, TX

Avendale at The Colony

Avendale at The Colony is a luxury townhome community set in the envy-inspiring riverside city of Bastrop. Experience the benefits of single-family living surrounded by various amenities that include a shimmering swimming pool, fun and safe playgrounds for the whole family to enjoy, and well-maintained and easily accessed dog parks.

Each 1, 2, 3, and 4-bedroom floor plan has been designed with stunning finishes, and even includes smart home technology to make your life that much easier. Ideally located near downtown Austin and Austin-Bergstrom International Airport, accessing your favorite local (and out of town) destinations will be a piece of cake.

Learn more about Avendale at The Colony.

Medina Highlands

At Medina Highlands, you’ll find carefully designed and thoughtfully crafted studio, one-, and two-bedroom apartment homes with a luxe feel. Enjoy expansive living and entertaining spaces that keep comfort in the driver’s seat without sacrificing modern design. All Medina Highlands residents can enjoy full access to our vibrant concierge-style amenities that range anywhere from our resort-inspired swimming pool with cabanas, high-end fitness center, and coworking spaces.

Easily access the Highland MetroRail, ACC Highland, and a variety of local restaurants, shopping, and entertainment. At these Austin apartments, you’ll never run out of things to do just outside your door.

Learn more about Medina Highlands.

Citizen House Pflugerville

Citizen House Pflugerville is located just outside of Austin, and offers its residents the best of both worlds when it comes to apartment living. From all the luxuries of living in a pet-friendly community with vibrant amenities, to the convenience of being just minutes from accessing all North Austin and all its attractions have to offer.

Surrounded by major employers such as Dell Computers, IKEA, INPEX, Circle C Ranch shopping center and Google, there’s no shortage of opportunity when you call Citizen House home.

Learn more about Citizen House Pflugerville.

Veranda

At Veranda, each home includes stunning designer finishes, and are ideally located near all the best that Austin, TX has to offer, from shopping and dining to entertainment and adventure. Find the perfect middle ground between access to all things city life, while also coming home to the peace and quiet that everyone craves after a long day.

From one-bedroom apartments to spacious townhomes, Veranda has a floor plan for everyone - including you. Including state-of-the-art appliances, lavish interiors, and access to vibrant community amenities, there’s so many things to love about this property!

Learn more about Veranda.

Don’t forget, if you want to shop our RPM Living communities across the US, check out our Communities page.

How To Get The Most From Your Property Management Team

When choosing to rent over buying a home, one of many perks one will receive is the ability to work with a property manager for your home. From billing questions to maintenance requests, here are some of our top ways to ensure you’re getting the best experience with your property management team at your RPM Living apartment home.

Safety issues

While we pride ourselves in maintaining safe environments for all of our RPM Living residents, if there is ever a situation regarding another resident, unknown visitor, or an incident such as doors being left propped open, etc., these are all prime reasons to contact a property manager, and voice your concerns. This helps to ensure not only your safety and comfort, but the same for all of our residents.

Maintenance requests

From leaking pipes to broken appliances, one of the top perks of renting instead of owning is the luxury of having someone other than yourself install (and foot the bill for) repairs to your apartment - no matter how big or small they may be. When making a maintenance request to your property management team, please keep in mind that typically, the urgency of your repair team coincides with the severity of your maintenance issue.

Emergencies

While this may seem a little on the nose, it’s important to recognize what constitutes a true emergency to contact your property manager, and when to call the authorities. A serious emergency such as flooding, loss of heat / AC, and power outages should always be reported to your property manager, but instances such as fires, gas leaks, home invasions, etc. should always be reported to emergency services first, and only after should you reach out to a property manager. This ensures the safety of all involved, as well as the safety of your home.

Moving concerns

Whether you’re moving in or out, it’s never a bad idea to request some help with any questions or concerns from your property manager! Oftentimes, they can give helpful recommendations into the best local moving companies, moving procedures for a specific property, and can help ensure you are assigned / removed from all utility requirements (gas, water, electric, trash, wifi, etc.) where necessary.

Rent concerns

We’re all human, and all online systems have their quirks. If at any time, you feel that an incorrect charge has been placed on your account, don’t hesitate to reach out to your property manager to confirm! The main goal of a property manager is to ensure the comfort of residents across all properties, and this is one way to ensure open communication and respect goes both ways.

As always, if you’re looking to live in one of our luxury apartments, you can always shop RPM Living communities across the US by checking out our Communities page.

Renter-Friendly Tech For Your RPM Living Luxury Apartment

Are you looking for some renter-friendly smart home technology recommendations to make your life a little easier? Many often mistake that living in an apartment means limiting your smart-home technology. That isn’t true, and we’ve put together a list of smart-home technology recommendations that you can easily implement in your RPM Living luxury apartment today.

Robot Vacuum

Whether you’re a little messy or even if you’re a neat freak, robot vacuums are a lifesaver for day-to-day life, especially in apartments. Our open-concept layouts make it easier to get your apartment in tip top shape without you having to lift a finger. What else could you ask for? Bonus: this one even has a mop feature for all your hard floors.

Bluetooth Speaker

If you’re cleaning, working, or anywhere in between, a wireless speaker is a great way to set your mood - no matter what mood it is. This bluetooth speaker from Ikea may look and sound like it’s going to cost you an arm and a leg, but really, it’s only $79.99.

Smart Plugs

Feeling like your energy bill is a little higher than it should be? Invest in a smart plug! These little gadgets will allow you to check via WiFi just how much energy any of your appliances or other electronic devices are pulling, and they can be remotely turned off and on. That’s right - you can turn your coffee pot on without even getting out of bed in the morning. Sounds too good to be true? Wait until you see how affordable it is.

Indoor Smart Camera

Hoping to keep an eye on your pets, plants, or belongings when you’re away from your apartment, without installing an expensive home security system? If so, an indoor smart camera should definitely be on your list. Easily connect to your smartphone, and check out what’s going on in your apartment when you’re out of town, visiting with friends, or simply out for an errand.

Digital Assistant

This may seem too easy, but we mean it when we say that EVERYONE at our RPM Living luxury apartments should have one of these. Whether you need an answer to a question, set a timer or reminder, or even control your smart plugs, an Amazon Echo or a Google Home is a great way to make apartment life more efficient without breaking the bank or taking up space.

With so much helpful tech available in today’s world, we can’t wait to hear what your favorite tools are for your home, too! Let us know in the comments or on our social media.

Don’t forget, if you want to shop our RPM Living communities across the US, check out our Communities page.

Renter-Friendly Tech Recs For Apartment Homes

Robot Vacuum

Whether you’re a little messy, a lotta messy, or even if you’re a neat freak, robot vacuums are a lifesaver for day-to-day life, especially in apartments! Our open-concept layouts make it to get your apartment in tip top shape, without you having to lift a finger. Most of our apartment homes do not have stairs, so don’t worry about it accidentally taking a tumble. What else could you ask for? Bonus: this one even has a mop feature for all your hard floors.

Bluetooth Speaker

If you’re cleaning, working, studying, or anywhere in between, a wireless speaker is a great way to set your mood - no matter what mood it is. This bluetooth speaker from Ikea may look and sound like it’s going to cost you an arm and a leg, but really, it’s only $79.99.

Smart Plugs

Smart Lock

Kiss the keys goodbye, and say hello to your new best friend. Ever been in a hurry out the door and couldn’t remember if you locked it on your way out? No problem, because with a smart lock, you can lock or unlock your door right from your phone. The best part? It fits right onto your deadbolt, so you can easily remove it at any time, or at move-out (even though we want you to stay with us forever!).

Digital Assistant

This may seem too easy, but we mean it when we say that EVERYONE at our RPM Living apartment communities should have one of these bad boys. Whether you need an answer to a question, set a timer or reminder, or even control your smart locks or plugs (cool, right?) an Amazon Echo or a Google Home is a great way to make apartment life more efficient without breaking the bank or taking up space.

With so much helpful tech available in today’s world, we can’t wait to hear what your favorite tools are for your home, too! Let us know in the comments or on our social media.

For more recommendations on resident life, and for finding your ideal home at one of our RPM Living communities across the US, check out our Communities page.

Best Restaurants in Dallas

In a city as big and full of life as Dallas, having a guide to the best local restaurants can be a lifesaver for last minute plans, or even for a month in advance. Here are a few of our favorites.

The Capital Grille

500 Crescent Ct., #135, Dallas, TX, 75201

With an extensive drink list and a dinner menu to die for, this steakhouse favorite is the perfect place to enjoy a night out. After all, with a menu including everything from beluga caviar to filets, and mongo-sized portions to put the icing on the cake, you better get your reservations in now.

Fearing’s

2121 McKinney Ave, Dallas, TX, 75201

If you’re looking for a Southwestern array of options for your dinner of choice, allow Chef Dean Fearing to take over the cooking this time. Begin with some griddled lump crab cakes or lobster tacos, and pair it with a buffalo tenderloin and one of their extensive wine options. If you’re looking for a laid-back evening, head over to the Rattlesnake Bar for some Wagyu short rib and a drink of your choice.

Princi Italia

5959 Royal Lane, Ste. 707, Dallas, TX, 75230

Be sure and add this chic Italian cafe to your dinner must-visit list! Whether your heart yearns for a bowl of pasta, a bite of bruschetta, or a slice of pizza pie rather than a dessert, Princi Italia has got you covered. Don’t forget to include a glass of vintage wine with your entree, no matter which direction you choose! Wines as good as these can be paired with anything.

Truluck’s Seafood, Steak, & Crab House

2401 McKinney Ave., Dallas, TX 75201

As their name implies, there is something on this menu for everyone at the dinner table, whether you’re in the mood for surf or turf. As the cravings call for, keep it real with their dessert menu by ordering a slice of decadent chocolate cake to finish off your meal - whatever it looks like, the choice is yours.

St. Martin’s Wine Bistro

3020 Greenville Ave., Dallas, TX 75206

If your hope is for a more intimate dining experience, St. Martin’s Wine Bistro is just the place to visit. With over 200 options on its wine list, St. Martin’s food and drink menu includes something for every taste palate. It’s also a great idea to finish off your night with their signature creme brulee, but we won’t tell you how to spend your time.

No matter where you choose to dine in Dallas, we’re sure you won’t be disappointed! Don’t forget, if you want to shop our RPM communities across the US, check out our Communities page.

Minimalist Decorating Tips for Your Apartment

Essential elements

Minimalism is based around only using essential elements to create a simple, functional, and clutter-free space. This is done through utilizing light, form, and materials most often in an open concept layout. Avoid excessive ornamentation and decoration, and instead opt for single pieces of artwork or other decorative elements in a large space.

Clean lines

Functionality and practicality are at the forefront of a minimalist design. This means focusing on maintaining flat, clean surfaces. Avoid lots of small decorations or furniture on tables, desks, shelves, etc., and stick to the basics. When choosing furniture, avoid excessive patterns and textures, and instead opt for a simple form, and neutral colors to your scheme.

Monochromatic color schemes

Whites, beiges, and greys will become your best friend, and are very standard in minimalist spaces. Colors are to be brought down to their most simple, natural shade rather than incorporating vibrance. When including colors, opt for the soft or baby shade rather than a hot or neon.

Textiles

To add a sense of dimension to your minimalist space without clashing designs, textiles such as linen, wool, and cotton are easy ways to add a sense of texture, color, and warmth to your space without causing distraction. Simple additions such as bedding, rugs, blankets, etc. are an easy and often inexpensive way to incorporate this element.

Combine shades

While all your shades should remain a faint, soft color as was previously discussed, it’s important to know that a blend of those faint shades in a room is key to keeping your home from looking washed out or bland, which is a fine line when it comes to minimalist design patterns. Wallpapers, fabrics used in furniture or decor, and even tile design can be used to incorporate this subtle, yet tasteful mix.

For more decorating tips, check out some of our other blogs!

As always, if you’re looking to live in one of our luxury apartments, you can always shop RPM communities across the US by checking out our Communities page.

Your Ultimate Guide to Austin, TX

If you are new to Austin or looking to fall in love with Austin all over again, this blog is for you. We’ve put together the ultimate guide to Austin, TX, and we can’t wait for you to try our recommendations.

Music in the Live Music Capital of the World

6th Street - Dirty 6th

Austin’s version of Bourbon Street is located on 6th Street between Congress Avenue (to the west) and I-35 (to the east). Here you’ll find a collection of eclectic dive bars, restaurants, food trucks, and lots, and we mean LOTS of live music.

6th Street - East Side

Find a refreshing variety of live music venues In historic Old East Austin on East 6th Street, where live music is featured every night.

Hotel Vegas
The White Horse
Whisler’s

Continental Club

They don’t call themselves “the granddaddy of all local music venues” for nothing. The bands they book lean towards blues and country, and are something any Austin local or visitor should see.

Rainey Street

Another collection of unique bars and dining, similar to Dirty 6th, but for a less grunge, more classic clientele. Check out some of our favorites:

Banger’s
Lucille
Half Step
Geraldine’s located in the Hotel Van Zandt

The Broken Spoke

If you’re in the mood to visit an iconic old honky tonk & dance hall, this is the place to be. When you enter, it feels like stepping back in time to the ‘60s. The venue includes a mini museum of the country music royalty that has performed there. Bonus: we have it on good authority that they have the best chicken fried steak in Austin.

Activities and Sights

Alamo Drafthouse

The Austin-based Alamo Drafthouse is a great choice if you’re looking for a unique activity. They show old & new features and serve you drinks and food during the show.

Austin’s Central Public Library

The Library features an amazing design, great art, green roof/patio, plus a bar and restaurant with literary-inspired cocktails. Can it get any better than that for a lit-lover?

Barton Springs

Barton Springs is the real star amongst Austin’s natural gems. It’s a spring-fed pool that is 68 degrees year round with a natural bottom. It’s really magical.

Congress Avenues Bats

In case you didn’t know, Austin is home to the largest urban bat colony in the world! Every night at sunset they fly out from under the Congress Ave bridge over Lady Bird Lake and create a ribbon in the air as they head downstream to feed on insects at night. Fun fact: farmers love them!

Tacos

Veracruz

Although they are known for their migas tacos, all are amazing! They have a food truck location as well as a permanent location at the Line hotel. The Linel’s lobby features artwork by Austin artists if you’re looking for a 2-for-1 kind of thing.

Torchy’s Tacos

Absolutely the best Austin-based taco chain. It’s something special that everyone in Austin should experience for themselves. We promise it will become a favorite in your Austin rotation!

Eats

Easy Tiger

This German beer garden and bakery offers great outdoor seating at multiple locations across Austin, and is one that should definitely be on your bucket list.

Juan in a Million

If you’re looking for great Mexican-inspired breakfast options in Texas-sized portions, Juan in a Million is sure to check all of your boxes.

Loro

Two of Austin’s top chefs collaborated and had a baby to create this Asian Smokehouse, with such a variety of choices, your hardest decision will be picking just one.

Drinks

P6

P6 is located on the top floor of the Line hotel’s parking garage, and includes great drinks and snacks, and a killer view of Lady Bird Lake. Also, the elevator ride up is an experience to try in itself!

Tiki Tatsu-Ya

This tiki-themed bar (they serve food, too!) is an immersive experience where you can sip elaborate cocktails…some of which are served with a sound and light show. Reservations book out about a month but you can often pop in and grab a spot at the upstairs bar.

Meanwhile Brewing

If you’re looking for an extensive drink menu for options that everyone will love, a great location and atmosphere, and some of the best taco trucks in Austin, Meanwhile should be your first stop on this list.

If you’d like a few more recommendations on local Austin life, here are a few other blogs we’ve created.

For more recommendations on resident life, and for finding your ideal home at one of our RPM communities across the US, check out our Communities page.

Fall Apartment Cleaning Checklist

Seasonal cleaning doesn’t have to be the stressor many think it is! We hope these tips will keep your regimen in check this fall season.

Turn Mattresses

It’s a good idea to turn your mattress front to back a few times a year. While you’ve got the sheets off and are in the process of moving your mattress around anyways, another tip for the cleanest and most comfortable mattresses is to sprinkle baking soda across your mattress. Let it sit for 15-20 minutes, and vacuum it up when you’re done. This helps remove any lingering odors from your mattress, and will increase its life substantially.

Baseboards + Fans

Use a damp rag or towel to wipe down your baseboards and ceiling fans, as they are the 2 top dust collectors in your home that are not usually considered a part of a regular cleaning rotation. Even if you don’t think they look dusty or dirty, you’ll be pleasantly surprised to see a difference when you’re done. It’s the little things that really help to spruce up your apartment.

Wash Holiday or Seasonal Dishes

Whether you’re hosting during the holidays or are just swapping out your typical dishes for some seasonal fun, be sure and give them a good wash. Though it can be tempting to believe your dishes are still clean from when you washed and packed them away last season, don’t let a lack of dust or grime deceive you - wash those dishes, and thank us later.

Wash Bedding

This is especially true if you are expecting any holiday guests, but even if you’re planning on spending the holidays solo, the changing of seasons is a great opportunity to freshen up all of your bedding, and pillows - yes, the actual pillows, not just the pillowcases this time. This goes for any couch or decorative pillows around your apartment as well.

Clean Storage Containers

As tempting as it can be to throw your storage containers back into storage after a long day of putting up holiday or seasonal decorations, don’t do it! Rinse out and wipe down your containers to keep them fresh, and avoid any buildups of dust, dirt, or other grime. Bonus: it helps keep bugs away longer. No one likes opening up containers that have been sitting for a year and finding dead spiders and other bugs in the bottom of your precious decor.

Plant Love

As we move into the colder months, be sure to keep your plants in check. Avoid keeping plants next to drafty windows that could result in a cold shock, and be sure and give them a little extra fertilizer to make up for the lack of sunshine. You might even consider purchasing a grow light to help keep your plants warm, and supplement that missing Vitamin D.

If you’re looking for more recommendations on cleaning tips, check out some of our past blogs for more inspiration.

Don’t forget, if you want to shop our RPM communities across the US, check out our Communities page.