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Archive through July 25, 2004

The TVClubHouse: General Discussions ARCHIVES: 2004 Nov. - 2005 Jan.: Home and Garden (ARCHIVES): Tons of Practical Advice Desperately Needed: Archive through July 25, 2004 users admin

Author Message
Gidget
Member

07-28-2002

Sunday, July 25, 2004 - 10:24 am   Edit Post Move Post Delete Post View Post    
Morning extended cyber family. I am looking to pick the collective brains of the vast wealth of life experience at this board. I am going to be asking a lot of questions in the next few days. I am looking for advise and practical experience.
GG


Max
Member

08-12-2000

Sunday, July 25, 2004 - 10:26 am   Edit Post Move Post Delete Post View Post    
You've got questions? We've got answers!

Of course, some of them might be total fabrications or bad advice, but. . .



Gidget
Member

07-28-2002

Sunday, July 25, 2004 - 10:30 am   Edit Post Move Post Delete Post View Post    
First question. What percentage of gross or net (please be specific) income should be spend on rent. I have seen financial advise of this sort for mortgages but the fact that a mortgage builds equity and a house can be sold to me does not make this applicable to renting. Assume in your number that no utilities are being paid.

I am somewhat bound by the market of the area to which I am moving but so far I have seen about a $400 delta I can play with. I can probably get cheaper if I am willing to travel further but when I factor in the cost of operating a car I dont realize much savings.

Whatever apartment I choose I am most likely going to be bound to a 12 month lease. So I cant afford to make a mistake and stretch my budget to tightly.


Gidget
Member

07-28-2002

Sunday, July 25, 2004 - 10:31 am   Edit Post Move Post Delete Post View Post    
Cute Max. Only serious answers please. I am really in the need to know and fast.

Gidget
Member

07-28-2002

Sunday, July 25, 2004 - 10:34 am   Edit Post Move Post Delete Post View Post    
Second question. I have a choice between renting with a private landlord versus a corporate rental complex. I am really afraid of the private landlords. Though the one property on a golf course is SO enticing.

I should probably note that I have NEVER been a formal lessee. I have lived in apartments in my younger days but ok I am pretty much a leftover hippy. That was more crashing than renting.


Luvmyjrt
Member

09-18-2003

Sunday, July 25, 2004 - 10:34 am   Edit Post Move Post Delete Post View Post    
GIdget, DH is a maintenance superintendant for our apartment complex. Not sure where you live, but I would hazard to guess that you can very easily agree to a shorter term rent in exhange for a slightly higher price. We do it here all the time.

One big suggestion, once you have narrowed down your decision to a few properties, visit that property during the day and during the evening/night. We've lived in many apts as a result of DH's job, and this has always been our best suggestion to those in your situation.

Are you planning to buy in the future?

Trust me on another thing, ask if the property is an "A" and a "B" property. They are required to tell you. Anything less than a "B" is not a good idea.

Hope this helps!

Gidget
Member

07-28-2002

Sunday, July 25, 2004 - 10:36 am   Edit Post Move Post Delete Post View Post    
Third question. I need practical advise about paring down. I have nested in a very large home for many years. Even the more luxurious apartments I looked at are going to be like going from living at the post office to living on a postage stamp.

Luvmyjrt
Member

09-18-2003

Sunday, July 25, 2004 - 10:37 am   Edit Post Move Post Delete Post View Post    
RE: your post about private landlords.

You will probably be required to absorb higher costs (ie: trash, water, sewer) than you would be in a rental community. Plus, a rental community is required to fix things in your apartment within a reasonable timeframe. That may not happen with a private landlord.

Also, you may have a situation where the private landlord wishes to sell the home you are renting and this creates a situation where you are more pressed to find another home.

Golf course? Nah, I'll take a pool with 24 hour emergency service!

Luvmyjrt
Member

09-18-2003

Sunday, July 25, 2004 - 10:38 am   Edit Post Move Post Delete Post View Post    
Gidget, visit the Home and Garden thread and specifically speak with LKunkel, she's a goddess in that area!

Gidget
Member

07-28-2002

Sunday, July 25, 2004 - 10:42 am   Edit Post Move Post Delete Post View Post    
Luvmyjrt... you have confirmed my fears. I know nothing! What is an "A" or "B" property. Why do I want to see the property at night.

I am moving to an area of Pennsylvania that can losely be described as a suburb of Philadelphia. Malvern to be specific. I am looking primarily in Chester county if anyone is familiar with that particular area.

And yes buying is a possibility. Not many of the properties are offering short term leases. Being alone and totally changing my life I would prefer not to have to change again in 3-6 months. I am hoping to make a decision I can live with for at least 10 months.

I have 12 months to purchase a home from the date that I move. I am relocating under a corporate program and the new home buying assistance will probably make buying an option I wont be able to refuse. And that in itself is going to generate a lot of questions


Gidget
Member

07-28-2002

Sunday, July 25, 2004 - 10:47 am   Edit Post Move Post Delete Post View Post    
The pool is going to be kind of a non issue. I am moving in a few weeks. All of the pools are outdoors and most of them close around labor day. Now the workout room is another question. I am wondering just how much of a perk it will really be when there are about a dozen machines and 300 units in the complex.

What other amenities are really worth having?

BTW I am in shock that at most of the places I have looked my mail will not be delivered to my door. We are talking serious culture shock here folks.


Luvmyjrt
Member

09-18-2003

Sunday, July 25, 2004 - 10:50 am   Edit Post Move Post Delete Post View Post    
Gidget: A vs B properties is used within the apartment industry to determine things such as amenities, security, safety, etc. "A" is the highest rating possible. DH says anything under a "B" is just not a good choice.

Properties are in a difficult position when questions are posed by potential renters that violate Fair Housing, so the A vs B philosophy kind of gets you the answers legally without getting specific.

I am from Pittsburgh PA originally, so I am somewhat familiar with Chester county. It's a lovely area!

If you have anymore questions, let me know!

Gidget
Member

07-28-2002

Sunday, July 25, 2004 - 10:53 am   Edit Post Move Post Delete Post View Post    
Thank you Luv. You have already given me some good stuff to chew on. I hope others will weigh in too. It only just occured to me this morning the wealth of experience here on the board.



Luvmyjrt
Member

09-18-2003

Sunday, July 25, 2004 - 10:55 am   Edit Post Move Post Delete Post View Post    
Oh, didn't answer the "at night" question. You want to see the property at night to check on security lighting, noise issues and just to get the general feel for what nightime is like there. Would you feel safe?

When you see a property during the daytime, you are not getting a feel for the residents on that property since they are more than likely at work. At night, you might see some folks outside walking pets or hanging out by the pool and you could get some real good answers to questions you might have.

Haven't every lived where mail was delivered to my door. Mostly you'll see mail kiosks where your mail is secure from prying eyes.

Our amenities here are: Business center, pool, hot tub, workout room, laundry facilities, dog park, car washing station, 24 hour maintenance (within reason) and security.



Luvmyjrt
Member

09-18-2003

Sunday, July 25, 2004 - 10:56 am   Edit Post Move Post Delete Post View Post    
You're welcome Gidget....any other questions, let me know!

Gidget
Member

07-28-2002

Sunday, July 25, 2004 - 10:59 am   Edit Post Move Post Delete Post View Post    
Fourth question. Utilities. I have already seen a variety of scenarios. Some Lessors pay some items, some pay none. None pay all. I know what it cost to run my home but it is so much larger than the apartments I am looking at. Plus I have a combination of gas, oil and electric which has been fairly economical.

My biggest concern is apartments that are 100% electric. I remember hearing horror stories about having to heat an apartment with electric.

Not to mention the fact that I dont know how my famous cookies and cheesecake are going to bake in an electric oven.


Gidget
Member

07-28-2002

Sunday, July 25, 2004 - 11:05 am   Edit Post Move Post Delete Post View Post    
Hmmm ... good point Luv. I really would like to see what my perspective neighbors look like. When I narrow down my choices I will be sure to get a look see on a week night. One thing in favor of the bigger complexes is the social aspect. Being newly alone that holds a certain appeal for me.

I cant believe I have to pull this all together in a few weeks. Yesterday I looked at apartments from 10 in the morning till 5 at night and I would still like to see a few more properties as none of the first round were slam dunks.

At first I was worried that I put this off too long as it was but I learned yesterday you only have a small window of availability anyway. No sense in falling in love with a place unless you are prepared to plunk down a deposit right away.


Luvmyjrt
Member

09-18-2003

Sunday, July 25, 2004 - 11:12 am   Edit Post Move Post Delete Post View Post    
I've always had electric heat and an electric range. Since moving to NC, I now have a gas range. I HATE IT! It stinks and just go ahead and TRY to put something on simmer! Hmph!

I really see now difference in electric v gas bills. Hope that helps!

One last thing, beware of the social aspect! Lots of Leisure Suit Larry's out there!

Have you checked the sights like www.rent.com and www.apartments.com for your new area?

Gidget
Member

07-28-2002

Sunday, July 25, 2004 - 11:21 am   Edit Post Move Post Delete Post View Post    
Yes I did look online. And I used that as a guide to work with my realtor. For obvious reasons she has some private rentals which she pushed out there first. But they are all condos. So they were in complexes too. There are a few more I want to look at.

The honest truth is I do not know what I can realistically afford. Hence my first question. I hope some folks will have an opinion.

As for the Leisure Suit Larrys thanks for a really great laugh. Being newly single after 20 years in a monogamous relationship is another whole kettle of fish. And I quickly learned, the hard way I might add, I have a lot to relearn about relationships. I was thinking more like group things. Socials, sports and some of the places even have trips to local attractions. I will have the same thing at work too. I work for a large corporation. But I am somewhat hesitant to combine too much of my social life with my work life.


Lkunkel
Member

10-29-2003

Sunday, July 25, 2004 - 11:28 am   Edit Post Move Post Delete Post View Post    
01. Try to find a place that eats up no more than 30% of your take home pay. Here's a link to a good budget worksheet, if you need it

02. We have a workout area, and 336 units; I am one of only 5 people who use the facilities, so don't assume everyone will be down there. I wouldn't trade our corporate situation for private: hot tub, 2 pools, night time security/escort service; 24-hour maintenance, when possible; tennis & basketball courts; free trash, sewer, and water; and more I am forgetting. Mail kiosk delivery is normal. Find out what the pet size limit is--even if YOU don't have pets, you don't necessarily want to live under (or over) a 50-pound brute.

03. Been there done that: moved from 1800sq ft condo, plus 2 car garage, plus 2 storage units to 855 sq ft apartment with no storage or garage. The main questions to ask:
  • Does this item make my heart smile when I see it?
  • Have I used it in the past year?
  • Do I really need to keep two (or more)?
  • Are the emotions attached to a sentimental item positive or sad and angst-filled?

Keep in mind that you will need to have a relatively accurate list of your belongings when you apply for renter's insurance--I tend to get tired of typing in information, and start pitching a lot.

I try, if nothing else, to do a FlyLady 27-fling boogie at least once a day. To do that, set a timer for 15 minutes and find 27 items to toss out.
You may, at some point, want to join us in TVCH's Home & Life Organization ...

04. We pay for electricity, phone, and cable. The complex covers water (great for a desert), sewer, and trash. Most apartments (at least out here) are 100% electric because gas has too high of a potential for stupid people doing stupid things.

05. Honestly, I know none of my neighbors. Of course, most of our neighbors just want to be left alone. When we see each other we wave, nod, or exchange pleasantries, but we haven't communicated with anyone about doing things. That seems to be common in apartments.

I think that's everything you asked. I went through this almost 2 years ago (will be in January), now, so I do understand.

Max
Member

08-12-2000

Sunday, July 25, 2004 - 11:36 am   Edit Post Move Post Delete Post View Post    
Gidget, When I first got divorced, my econonic outlook wasn't good. I had a good job, but so many bills that I thought bankruptcy was just around the corner.

When I looked for apartments, I first figured out how much money I had to pay out each month for non-negotiable items (in my case, all those bills) and then how much I would reasonably need for gas/groceries/utilities and so forth. That left me with a good idea of how much wiggle room I had for paying rent. If I had used a straight percentage, I would have given up immediately, that's how tight things were.

I ended up opting to get an apartment that cost a little bit more but offered a very cheerful atmosphere. I figured that I was going to be there a lot since I wouldn't be able to afford going out, so it better be a place that would nourish my soul as much as possible. It had a nice view of trees and got lots of light and was in a large, nicely maintained complex that was really quiet. Perfect.

I went from a 2700 square foot house to an 800 square foot apartment. Paring down the stuff was actually quite cleansing -- it was part of the process of leaving the marriage behind.

I budgeted every penny very closely for about a year -- I was a coupon-clipping queen! I never did have to declare bankruptcy and now, 11 years later, the only debt I have is my mortgage. :-)

Anyway, the bottom line is that you have to find a balance between any kind of formula of what you can afford from a $$ perspective and your gut feel of what you can afford from a karma perspective. :-)

Lovemyjrt has give you some great practical advise to use. Listen to your heart as well as your checkbook. All the best to you!

Oh, where I live (the Pacific Northwest) heating an all-electric home/apartment is not very practical. Natural gas is much cheaper and heats more quickly. I love my gas range/water heater/fireplace/furnace! :-)

Luvmyjrt
Member

09-18-2003

Sunday, July 25, 2004 - 11:46 am   Edit Post Move Post Delete Post View Post    
Well, Gidget, I'm learning things right along with you! I'd love to figure out how to simmer with my gas range!

I will LK's statement that you really don't "know" your neighbors. These days, it's tough what with work and all. Since my DH is the maintenance guy, I don't WANT to know my neighbors! You'd be shocked at how often people just ring our doorbell when they have a maintenance issue, instead of calling the office or, as often happens, calling the person that is on call at that time.

I would also agree that the fitness centers aren't very busy. You have a few, but not tons!

I wish you the best as you navigate this new section of your life. Change is difficult, but I'm sure you'll make the right decisions!

Gidget
Member

07-28-2002

Sunday, July 25, 2004 - 11:51 am   Edit Post Move Post Delete Post View Post    
Hi Lkunkel. Thank you so much for chiming in. I think it might have been you who posted the pictures in the flylady thread of the box situation. I remember thinking she should see my place.

I am familiar with Flylady and have tried to apply some of her principles for about the last year but I am finding it so hard. I am a pack rat. In some ways I am actually welcoming being forced to free myself from some of my things. But that does not make it any easier at the moment.

I cant begin to tell you the emotional comfort I am getting today from having people to talk to who have been in my position. Thank you.


Gidget
Member

07-28-2002

Sunday, July 25, 2004 - 11:54 am   Edit Post Move Post Delete Post View Post    
LOL Luv... you turn down the burner for simmer... at this point I would hope to make some right decisions. The truth is I have been very depressed about everything and making any decision is a struggle.

Lkunkel
Member

10-29-2003

Sunday, July 25, 2004 - 11:56 am   Edit Post Move Post Delete Post View Post    
Gidget: 'twas indeed me.

I'm about to start a clutter challenge on the Home & Life Organization thread. You may want to join us.

I'm willing to answer any questions I can. I am also willing to support you anyway possible.