Tag: property management San Antonio TX

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.

Tips On Saving Money While Renting

Choosing to rent is a big decision that many are faced with, and we’re thrilled you chose an RPM Living apartment community! Now that you’ve decided to rent your home, even if only temporarily, it’s a good idea to look ahead and start thinking about how to save money while you’re in a rental. Here are some of our tips!

Pay rent with a cash-back credit card

You’ve probably heard people say that credit cards are “scary” and you should avoid using them unless absolutely necessary, but this isn’t true for those who know how to use them responsibly. By paying your rent with a credit card that offers cash back on all purchases, you can truly make some of your money back on your rent payments each month, all while spending the same amount of money you’d be spending anyways.

Find a roommate

This one may seem a little on the nose, but there’s a reason why many renters choose to go in 50/50 with roommates! You’ll still be able to live in a space you love in a perfect location for your lifestyle, but at only a fraction of the cost. However, it’s important to choose your roommates wisely. Just because someone is your friend - or even family - doesn’t mean they’ll be a good fit to live with. There’s no point in choosing a roommate to split costs with if they aren’t going to stick around long enough to really make a difference.

Know how much space you need

It can seem tempting to choose an apartment that comes with extra space for storage, living, entertaining, etc., but if you’re keen on saving your money, choose a space that adequately suits your needs. In order to get more, you oftentimes have to pay more, so why pay for more than you really need? Trust us, you’re going to thank yourself in the long run.

Eliminate your debt

From credit card debt to student loans, it’s no secret that getting out of debt is one of the most common challenges that people are facing these days, especially with rising costs of living. Getting out of that hole is a great way to start seeing your savings grow each month, rather than sit in the same place month in and month out. Consider working with a free financial advisor to create a plan, both short and long term, to get your debt into a good place - or eliminated altogether.

Watch your utilities

It’s easy to get caught up in cranking your heat in the winter and your A/C in the summer, but how much extra are your utilities really costing you each month? While we would never suggest a tactic that would cause you to be uncomfortable in your own time, keeping an eye on your energy, water, heating and cooling usage each month could be what helps add some extra funds into your savings.

There are so many benefits to renting your home, don’t sell yourself short over fear of not being able to grow your savings in the meantime. Let us know if these tips have helped you, or if you have any additional tips that have proven effective in your time as a renter!

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.

Valentine’s Day Activities To Enjoy In San Antonio

No matter what activity leads its way deepest into your heart - food, shopping, art, live music - San Antonio has it all, and then some. Spend this Valentine’s Day living your dream at any of these amazing locations conveniently located near our apartments in San Antonio.

The Witte Museum

Eye-catching architecture, stunning exhibits, and immersive art displays are just the start of ways to describe the Witte Museum in San Antonio. Experience for yourself what Texas - and the rest of the world - used to look like before it was touched by man, and step outside of yourself for an experience that will leave you craving more. Perfectly located in the heart of San Antonio, plan a lunch, dinner, shopping trip, and more to pair with your museum visit!

Go Rio San Antonio River Cruise

Experience the true essence of the river walk on this guided river cruise with your valentine! Enjoy a romantic tour through one of the most picturesque locations in San Antonio, and scope out where you should go next! This 30-minute tour is full of stunning views, rich history, and a chance to see parts of the river walk you’d otherwise miss out on.

Walking Taco Tour at The Pearl

This one’s for the foodies out there! The Pearl is widely recognized as one of San Antonio’s top culinary destinations, where you can explore markets, restaurants, bars, and other events throughout their many recognized spaces. While taking in the scene, be sure and enjoy a Walking Taco tour - it’s like a two-for-one experience!

Heart Shaped Pizza

Is it even Valentine’s Day if you don’t enjoy some type of heart shaped delicacy? We didn’t think so, which is why you and your valentine should head over to Volare Italian Restaurant to grab one for yourselves! Not only is it an adorable tribute to this day of love - it’s going to make your mouth water.

Cookie Cab Delivery

Spending the evening in, or spending it away from your valentine this year? That doesn’t mean you can’t still enjoy it together! Cookie Cab’s “Be Mine” Valentine’s Day cookie package can be delivered, no matter the circumstances of your Valentine’s Day, and it includes a heart shaped cookie cake, 6 cookies, milk, and more - and did we mention it’s ADORABLE?

No matter what your Valentine’s Day looks like this year in San Antonio, we’ve got you covered with our favorite recommendations. 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.

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.

How to Create the Perfect Home Office

The perfect home office means something different to everyone, but we have a few recommendations that will improve any home office, no matter your style.

Find natural light

No matter if you’re someone who spends 8+ hours a day in your home office, or simply uses it on occasion, the right lighting is a necessity for creating the perfect home office. Natural light allows your body to know what time it is and keep your regular pattern on track. Additionally, natural lighting causes far less strain on your eyes, which will allow you to work more efficiently without getting headaches or damaging your vision - especially if you’re looking at screens all day.

Invest in ergonomic furniture

While it may not seem like something you need, believe us - your future body will thank you a million times over for choosing ergonomic furniture for your home office. Allowing your spine, hips, and neck some support while sitting for long periods of time will drastically improve any pain you could be experiencing, your posture, and the longevity of your spine. Not to mention, they’re way more comfortable to sit in than some cute, cheap chair you found at a garage sale (no shade, just the truth).

Add personal touches

Photos, decorations, plants - anything that brings you happiness and motivation throughout your day is a great way to boost your productivity. Creating a space you feel comfortable in is one of the best ways to find yourself enjoying your work more, and getting more done throughout the day.

Choose colors that bring you joy

The colors we surround ourselves with have a direct impact on our mood, productivity, and motivation. Lighter, airier, natural colors are some of the best ways to subtly incorporate mood and productivity boosters into your home office. Easily incorporate your favorite mood-boosting colors in your decor and furniture, and don’t be afraid to change those colors with the seasons.

Find ways to stay organized

We cannot stress this enough - clutter is the antithesis of productivity. Clutter produces anxiety and stress in many people simply because there is too much going. It causes distraction and makes it difficult to focus and/or relax. Keep your desk, drawers, floors, etc. in your home office organized to increase productivity.

Pro tip: always organize your desk at the end of the day, so you have a fresh start the next morning! Believe us when we say this works wonders.

If you’d like a few more tips and recommendations to perfect your home office, 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.

Get The Most Out Of Your Apartment

Knowing how to get the best experience out of your apartment may seem easy, but many people look back on their time living in their apartment homes and think, “Why didn’t I do more?” We’re here to make sure that doesn’t happen.

Personalize your space

No matter the current design trends or what you see online, your apartment is YOURS, and yours alone, and your decorative style should reflect that. Choose furniture, decorations, and other items for your space that are a direct reflection of your personality, not just what you saw someone do on HGTV. Lucky for you, we have an entire blog dedicated to doing just this! Check out How to Personalize Your Space.

Use those community amenities

There’s a reason that your apartment’s community amenities caught your eye during your apartment search, so take advantage of them. Whether it’s regular visits to the gym, pool, tanning salon, or coffee bar, or even spending time in your resident clubhouse to watch the big game or your favorite TV show on a Wednesday night, your apartment’s community amenities are there for YOU to use.

Use your space wisely

No matter if you’re kicking it solo in a studio, or sharing a 3-bedroom apartment with friends or family, knowing how to use the space you have is something that can take a little practice! Identify the areas of your apartment that you will spend the most time in, and begin there. For example: don’t dedicate time, money, and energy into decorating your home office if it’s only going to be used a few times a year. On the flip side, don’t skimp on your home office if you plan on using it frequently.

Psst - we’ve got a blog about that, too! Read Apartment Must-Haves For Creating a Home Office for more inspiration!

Spend time at home

So many of us are spending significantly more time at home due to the increase in remote work. When you work from home, it can be challenging to want to spend more time in your home. We recommend separating your work space from your personal space to really get the most out of your apartment and enjoy your down-time to the fullest.

Whether you’re in the mood for some alone time or want to entertain friends or family, plan to cook a nice dinner, have a baking night, movie night, any night that suits your fancy. As long as it gives you the opportunity to appreciate and love your space, you’re doing it right.

Not in the mood for entertaining? Your apartment is there for you to de-stress and recharge. Check out our 5 Self-Care Tips To Reduce Your Stress right at home.

Perfect your living area

Even if you wouldn’t say the living room is where you spend the bulk of your time in your apartment, it is one of the rooms you will see the most day in and day out, regardless of your living habits. Perfecting your living area will ensure that the first sight you see when you walk in after a long day is something you enjoy, not a space that stresses you out.

If you’re needing some inspiration on decorating your living room, don’t worry: we’ve got some ideas. Take a look at Interior Design Ideas For Apartment Living Rooms to get a few ideas for your own apartment!

For more inspiration on how to make the most out of your apartment, check out some of our past blogs for tips!

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.