Seven strategies for property managers to make tenants feel at home

If you want  apartment complex residents to renew their leases, the property must feel like home. Apartments are typically temporary housing, but there are seven strategies you can use to make the complex not only a place your tenants love to live but also a place they recommend to others.

1.Customized units let tenants take ownership

Cookie-cutter units may save on construction, but unique designs save on turnover rates. Allow your tenants the opportunity to make minor changes to the space. This can include changing the lighting fixtures, installing a new showerhead, painting the walls or having the choice between carpet and tile flooring.

If your tenant comes to you asking to plant a garden or add outside decor around their unit, consider saying yes. The customization could increase the value of the unit, and it will encourage the tenant to stay longer.

2. Paint with colors other than white (this doesn’t mean neon orange though)

Similar to customization, changing up the colors in the units helps the property feel more like home. Nothing says apartment complex like whitewashed walls. Add neutral colors in the kitchen and living areas to add color diversity. Matte white has a habit of looking cheap and boring, but earthy tones or gray tones can add personality and character. However, there is no need to make any bold statements with bright colors that may scare off potential residents.

3. Trees and grassy landscapes make perfect spaces for picnics

All businesses know the importance of curb appeal, and the same is true for apartment complexes. Your tenants may want to enjoy the fresh spring air, and a grassy knoll allows them to do that while enjoying a picnic or playing soccer with their kids. These areas also attract wildlife such as rabbits, squirrels and birds for you residents to enjoy. However, a lot of upkeep comes with landscaping, including mowing and pest removal. Without maintenance, outdoor areas can become a nuisance rather than an amenity.

4. Gathering places with tables, grills, parks and pools

These places give your tenants an opportunity to interact with their neighbors and give them an opportunity to invite others over to visit. When residents make friends on the property, they may decide to renew their lease because of the community they built in the complex.

Nearby parks on the premises allow the kids to stay in sight while having fun outside. No-leash dog parks also give your residents the opportunity to exercise their pet conveniently.

Pools come with additional maintenance requirements, but it is a great opportunity to provide residents one more enjoyable amenity, and they may be willing to pay more in rent it.  

5. Facilitate group activities (Break out the wine on Friday afternoon)

Host a Fourth of July cookout, organize a dog parade or simply serve wine on Fridays twice a month. You should take every opportunity to engage with the residents because it makes them feel like they belong on your property, and consequently, improves retention rates. The Institute of Real Estate Management provides a list of ideas to keep your event calendar full all year.

6. Keep cookies and dog treats at the front desk

Nothing says welcome home more than a treat at the front desk for your child or pet. This is a simple and fairly inexpensive way to show residents you care. When a school bus stops in the afternoon, kids will run off the bus and into the lobby to see if there are cookies, and if the kids like the property, then the parents will like it too.

7. Have an emergency number for maintenance

If a resident cannot quickly fix a problem in their apartment, then it is likely going to cause them to look elsewhere to live. Fighting pests or dealing with a leaky faucet is annoying enough, but when the property manager does not take quick action to help, it sends a message that the resident’s problems are not a priority.

Go above and beyond for maintenance. In addition to employing preventative care, you should also consider providing every resident with an emergency number if something breaks outside of office hours.

At NorthStar Properties we are dedicated to improving the long-term value of an asset. We have experience in making apartment complexes feel like home for all of the residents. Contact us if you want to learn more about our property management services.

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How to make an aged apartment complex competitive with the newest properties.

The New York Times declared 2017 “Year of the Renter,” which means you need to up your game if you own and manage a multi-family housing complex. It also means you might face more competitors in the future when new apartments start going up around your property.

How do you stay competitive with older buildings when the new guys are right next door? Here are some strategies to be the best place in the area.

Start with the low hanging fruit (paint the exterior, interior and replace flooring)

Give your property a facelift. It is the insides that really count, so paint the interior with earthy tones and gray neutrals because avoiding the typical whitewash walls will give your units a home feel and a quality look. Install new cabinets, door knobs, light fixtures and showerheads. Each of these features brings a modern look to the space.

Curb appeal is also important. A fresh and clean exterior can make the property feel more modern even though it is older. Consider adding new siding and renovating the balconies. Bring in professional landscapers to plant colorful flowers and shrubs. Then, trim the trees and fix or install sidewalks.

Upgrade your amenities to compete with surrounding properties  

Just because the property is older, doesn’t mean it can’t have the newest perks. The best part about living in an apartment is convenient amenities like pools, parks, gyms and lounging areas. Create a designated wifi area for tenants who don’t pay for internet or who don’t have it installed in their apartment.

Invest in new and robust gym equipment, because residents will find value in not needing to pay for a gym membership elsewhere.

Make the property pet-friendly with no leash dog parks, plenty of outdoor walking space and build trashcan stations with dog waste bags for resident’s convenience. Build grilling stations with picnic tables, and keep the pool (if you have one) pristine.

Taut energy efficiency

A resident’s biggest concern with an older unit is whether or not it offers similar energy efficient features as a newer unit. Nobody likes overspending on electric bills because of bad heating and cooling units and old appliances.

Upgrade the ovens, refrigerators, microwaves, washers and dryers to newer models that use less electricity. Install LED lighting, and make sure the windows are sealed.

Use Smart Meters in all of the units so residents can decide when to run the heater or air conditioning in their unit on an hourly schedule.

Accentuate the property’s unique charm

Maybe it is mature trees or one-of-kind architecture, whatever it is that makes your property different from the newest complexes, make sure potential tenants know about it. Don’t hide that old charm, just make it fresh and appealing.

Some older complexes are built with high-quality materials compared to the new properties. Explain to residents why this level of quality is unique and valuable. This could be wood flooring or durable countertops. Share the history of the building, or it’s long-term connection with the community.

Train your staff on new technology

If your property is 20-years-old, and so is your website, then it is time for an upgrade. An interactive and responsive website that allows tenants to make their rent payments online is valuable to younger residents. They don’t want the hassle of walking to the front office with a check or money order every month. An online platform can also give them access to their rental agreements and property policies. You can also create a space for residents to file complaints or work orders online.

Engage with residents on social media. Post about upcoming events, tips to keep their energy bills low and ask for them to review the complex so future tenants can know just how awesome it is to live in one of your apartments.

Hire a professional photographer

The first place a prospective renter looks is online. Photos are now the first impression. A bad photo or clunky website will result in lost leads. Hire a professional to photograph the best features of your property.

If it is out of your budget to hire a photographer,  then use a new smartphone or rent  a DSLR camera. Take photos in natural lighting, stage the areas and make sure the image is relevant. This means you should photograph the  gym, community areas, parks and take several shots of different units.

Keep your current residents from leaving for your competitor

The best way to compete with a new multi-family housing properties near you is to keep your current tenants happy. They may love the new renovations, but they won’t love rent increases. Offer residents the opportunity to lock in their current rate if they do not move when their lease is up, even if new tenants are charged more for a similar space. Keep up with maintenance requests, and respond quickly to any complaints or concerns.

We can help you maintain your competitive edge in a growing market. At NorthStar Properties we make increasing your property’s value a top priority. We offer management services and consulting. If you contact us, we would be happy to start a conversation about the future of your property.

For More information, Visit at http://www.northstar-ok.com/

7 tips for staying cool during summer heat

The hottest days of the year are right around the corner, but rather than sit around miserable there are some strategies you can use to say cool and comfortable.

Take a swim, go to the lake or visit a splash pad

Jump into a body of water to cool off on the hottest days. Luckily there are plenty of options for families and friends to take a swim in the Oklahoma City Metro. Go boating at Lake Arcadia or Lake Hefner. Take a canoe down the Oklahoma River. Enroll your kids in swimming lessons at the Earlywine and Will Rogers Family Aquatic Centers, or cannonball off a diving board at Westwood Water Park in Norman.

Go to a local museum

The area is packed full of museums both big and small for you to visit the metro. If it is a triple-digit day and nothing can beat the heat, a cool museum or library may do the trick. Go to the Museum of Osteology or the Science Museum of Oklahoma. The Oklahoma City library is another great place to retreat with a good book for several hours until the unforgiving sun decides to set.

Stay hydrated with water and other refreshing beverages

The rule of thumb is to drink enough water to prevent thirst. Ice cold water can help keep you cool, but more importantly it is the best way to avoid any heat-related illnesses. If you are working or keeping active, The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH)  recommends that for moderate activity in moderate conditions, each worker should drink 1 cup of water every 15 to 20 minutes.

Sleep and sit low to the ground

Cold air circulates lower to the ground. Ceiling fans can help stir the air some, but sleeping low to the ground and sitting near the floor will help you stay cool. Cuddling increases body temperature, so it is better to sleep alone and spread out rather than curl up.

Stay out of the sun

If you go outside, stay in the shade. Direct sunlight makes the air feel 10 to 15 degrees warmer, and it also increases the chances of a burn.Wear lighter cotton clothes because the fabric will absorb less light and keep you cooler.

Eat some ice cream

As if you needed any other excuse to eat this delicious treat, taking a few bites of cold ice cream can help you remain comfortable in hot weather. Anything ingested that is lower than the body temperature whether it is ice tea or ice cream, it will produce a cooling effect. However, the digestion process 15 to 20 minutes following the consumption may increase your body temperature. So break the rules and jump in the pool after you eat it.

Freeze the sheets

Before heading off to bed, grab your sheets from the freezer. Be sure that you store them in a ziplock bag (unless you like smelling frozen vegetables and pizza while you sleep.) The sheets will eventually warm up, but the goal is to fall asleep without being hot.
NorthStar Properties maintains efficient units that can keep you cool during hot summer months. Contact us to learn more about available units, and our other amenities that may keep you from overheating on hot days, like an outdoor pool.

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9 tips for renters to save on their electric bill this summer

In summer, Oklahoma heat is unforgiving. As the temperature spikes, so can your electric bill,  but these strategies can help you reduce your electric usage and stay cool. 

Seal window cracks to prevent heat from pouring into your apartment or home

Most people work to seal windows in their home or apartment in the winter to keep the warm air from escaping, but the same strategy is useful in the heat of summer to keep warm air out. Rubber sealing or window film will do the trick, but remember to install a product that will still allow you to open your windows on cool,  breezy nights.

Consider grilling outside rather than baking indoors

If it is warm in the house, baking or cooking on a stove top will only increase the room temperature. Take the opportunity to have a cookout. It isn’t uncommon for apartment complexes to have designated outdoor grilling areas, and hot summer days are the perfect opportunity to take advantage of the amenity. An added benefit is you have the opportunity to keep all that extra heat outside rather than in your home.

Use energy efficient light bulbs

On average, five percent of energy consumption is dedicated to lighting, which means you have the opportunity to save, especially during high consumption months in summer, by investing in energy efficient light bulbs. The best options are Halogen incandescents, compact fluorescent lamps (CFLs), and light-emitting diodes (LEDs). Traditional light bulbs give off 90 percent of their energy as heat, which is not what you want, especially in the summer.  

Install a programmable thermostat

If you have a specific routine, then a programmable thermostat can make your home more efficient by limiting air conditioning in your absence and increasing it at the times you need it most. If you already have a programmable thermostat, then make sure you take the time to learn the settings, and optimize it for your lifestyle.

Use fans to cool the room

A ceiling fan or even a desk fan can help you keep the room a few degrees hotter while maintaining comfortable with the temperature.Ceiling fans help push down warm air, which forces the cool air near the floor to stir around the room.  

Unplug electronics

If you’re not using it, then unplug it from the wall. Phantom energy is the electricity used by equipment that is off but plugged in, and it accounts for nearly 15 percent of the energy consumption from these gadgets. Power strips can make this process less of a hassle because you don’t have to struggle to get to outlets behind heavy desks or entertainment centers.

Hang up light-colored heavy curtains (preferably reflective).

The Department of Energy reported that draperies with white-plastic backings could reduce heat gain by 33 percent. A reflective backing on curtains can also redirect the heat away from your house. Curtains on the east and west side of a home will help reduce heat gain more than north or south facing windows.

Regularly replace air filters

Dirty air filters cause your air conditioning unit to work harder. It is better to change the filters monthly to keep your system working well. Another added benefit is higher air quality and reduced allergens in your home.

Keep yourself cool and hydrated

You can also keep the room temperature warmer if you stay cool and hydrated. Drink refreshing beverages like iced mint tea or cold water, and wear light clothing. The longer you remain comfortable the less you need to turn on air conditioning. NorthStar Properties provides residents the energy efficient appliances, and is ready to help you with any maintenance needs like fixing window seals. Contact us to learn more about our amenities and available units.

See more at : Chisholm Creek rentals | apartment Edmond Schools

7 Unique Museums in Oklahoma City Metro to Visit This Summer

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7 Unique Museums in Oklahoma City Metro to Visit This Summer

Summer break is a great time to dedicate warm afternoons to learning new things at museums in the area. Take a few hours or an entire day, schedule a tour or just take a look around. Either way, new experiences are waiting.

1. Overholser Mansion

Tour a 12,000 square foot historic mansion located on the northwest corner of Hudson and Northwest 15th Street. Everything inside and outside the Overholser Mansion is well-maintained and true to the early 20th century era.

The home was built by Henry Overholser, who is known as the founder of Oklahoma City. The Oklahoma Historical Society maintains the home while admission fees support the maintenance efforts. The home is open to guests Tuesday through Saturday, and tours begin on the hour 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. The experience costs between $5 and $10 depending on age. Keep a look out for special events such as mystery tours.

2. 45th Infantry Division Museum 

Another free location to visit is the 45th Infantry Division Museum. Learn about World War II, historical weaponry and look at artifacts from Nazi Germany. The museum has 11 well-constructed exhibits featuring commanders, battles, infantry and auxiliary.

Tours are available and recommended for guests who schedule an appointment. With 27,000 square feet of exhibit space and a 15-acre park, it’s important to schedule enough time to explore both indoors and outdoors.

3. American Banjo Museum

The only banjo museum in the world is located in the Bricktown district of Oklahoma City. View hundreds of twangy stringed instruments, listen to audio of famous players and songs, and learn about the evolution of the banjo. On April 12, a new Roy Clark, America’s Super Picker, was made famous for his appearances on Hee Haw.

Other exhibits feature banjos from every decade since the late 1800s. The museum is open Tuesday through Saturday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. and on Sundays from noon to 5 p.m. The admission fees range between $5 and $8 depending on age.

The museum can be found at 9 east Sheridan Avenue. Since it’s located in Bricktown, there are plenty of eateries nearby including Bricktown Brewery, Dekora! and Earl’s Rib Palace.

4. National Weather Center

Tour the National Weather Center and learn about the latest weather technology in the epicenter of tornado activity. Three times a week, 12 people can spend up to two hours learning about the National Weather Service.

Tourists can visit the observation tower where meteorologists watch storms come in, learn how scientists forecast weather each week (including severe weather) and grab lunch at the casual cafe — The Flying Cow.

Late fall, the National Weather Center also hosts an annual weather festival with storm chasing vehicles, helicopters, local meteorologists and response teams in attendance. The center offers free tours but must be scheduled in advance.

5. Museum of Osteology

Learn about bones at the Museum of Osteology located at 10301 S. Sunnylane Road. This relatively small museum is packed with more than 300 skeletons from various animals such as dinosaurs, bears, alligators, wolves, monkeys, mice, bison and fish.

Interactive exhibits make the learning experience dynamic and engaging. Admission is $7 for ages 4-13 and $8 for ages 13 and older. The museum is open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Saturday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sundays from 1 to 5 p.m.

6. Oklahoma State Firefighters Museum

Visit the Oklahoma State Firefighters museum. It’s home to Oklahoma Fire Service exhibits, artifacts from the London Fire Brigade, and a dozen restored fire trucks dating back to the early 1900s.

In March, the museum announced an upcoming $5 million expansion that will include new interactive exhibits to better engage young visitors and double the square footage. Admission is $3 for children 6-12, $6 for 13 and older, and $5 for visitors 55-years-old and older.

7. American Pigeon Museum

Bird lovers can explore the American Pigeon Museum and Library located at 2300 NE 63rd Street. Answer any question about pigeons by visiting this museum. Learn about the history of pigeons, hold and feed birds on site. 

This museum features an extensive collection of historic pigeon equipment, paintings, photographs, and a collection of WWI and WWII army pigeon corps equipment. The museum is only open on Fridays and Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Admission is free, but donations are accepted.

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Top 15 Places to Visit in Oklahoma

As summer closes in, longer days will call for creativity for spare time. You and your family or friends will be looking for few new, interesting activities since school will be out. We propose this list of 15 fun attractions in Oklahoma – ranging from indoor to outdoor and active to calm. You’re sure to find something compelling on this master list of summer fun! 

1. Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge – Escape from the world for a few hours and visit the beautiful mountain ranges in southwest Oklahoma. Or, stop by Prairie Dog Town for an extremely cute experience.
2. White Water Bay – Cool off at the best waterpark in the state of Oklahoma. There are countless summer deals and events like Dive-In Movies and season pass specials.
3. Philbrook Museum of Art – One of Tulsa’s many focal points, the Philbrook is sure to stun any visitor from the inside out with its beautiful art and architecture.
4. Myriad Botanical Gardens – Pretend you’re on a tropical vacation this summer with a visit to the Myriad Gardens in downtown OKC.
5. OKC Zoo – See some out-of-the-ordinary animals on a sunny summer day. The OKC Zoo makes for a great summer date too.
6. Frontier City – This theme park will take you on a wild ride and help make some amazing summer memories.
7. Great Salt Plains State Park – Located in north Oklahoma, less than an hour from the Kansas border, dig up your own crystal souvenirs at the breathtaking Salt Plains of Oklahoma.
8. Museum of Osteology – Do you find skeletons creepy or riveting? The Museum of Osteology can put an educational twist on a summer afternoon at a reasonable price.
9. Turner Falls – Located in Davis, Oklahoma, Turner Falls is one of the most well-known attractions in Oklahoma and will surely not disappoint. Hiking, swimming and camping adventures await you in this oasis.
10. Science Museum Oklahoma – For an indoor activity that will tire out the kids as much as a mountain hike, look no further than the science museum. With interactive and educational activities everywhere, there is never a dull moment.
11. Chickasaw Cultural Center – Connect with Oklahoma’s native roots at this beautiful cultural center located in Sulphur, OK.
12. Oklahoma City National Memorial and Museum – The bombing of the Murrah Building in 1995 was a dark time for Oklahoma and the nation. Now, the memorial serves as a calming reminder of the strength of our country and people.
13. OKC Museum of Art – Permanent home to a large collection of glass art, pop art and many others, the art museum in Oklahoma City will surely not disappoint. Check to see the latest exhibit and plan your visit today.
14. Alabaster Caverns State Park – These caverns feature some of the prettiest natural formations in the entire state. It’s the perfect summer trip for cave divers and kindergarteners alike.
15. National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum – What’s the best way to soak up an Oklahoma summer than visiting the Cowboy Hall of Fame? We are the “y’all” state, after all.

This list has no particular order, but we urge you to visit as many of these wonderful locations as you can. Looking for a new home close to some summer fun? Contact us at 405-310-6450 to learn more about our many properties and the amusement surrounding the areas.

See more at : Northstar Properties | Woodland Hills apartments

Your Guide to Off-Campus Living

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Your Guide to Off-Campus Living

After a year or two in the dorms, you’re ready to make it on your own! Or, maybe you’re graduating and they just won’t let you crash on campus anymore. Summer is the perfect time to move into that new apartment and since we’re nearing the end of the semester, it’s time to start looking. But, off-campus living is drastically different than on campus. There are a few things you can (and should) do to prepare for this change.

Consider that you now have a landlord or lessee.

• Make a good impression! The more respect you show to them and their property, the more they will respect and trust you in return.
• Come prepared with questions. During your first visit, nerves may flutter and you forget all of those important details you wanted to ask about.
• Write everything down. Any agreements made aloud should be put into a contract, for your sake and the lessee’s. Don’t just take someone’s word, get it in writing.
• Take inventory of the house or apartment. Some apartment complexes will do this anyway. But before you move anything in, go through the living space and write down every detail about the way it comes. Then give a copy to your landlord and keep one for yourself. 

Remember you will be cooking for yourself now.

• Learn some simple recipes. No need to become a professional chef, just learn to make a few good meals so you have more options than fast food.
• Look into meal prepping. If you’re very busy most of the time, this could be a great option to eat somewhat healthy. Prepping helps makes mealtime quick and easy.
• If you have a roommate, address sharing food. Roommates can be wonderful or awful and food is a huge deciding factor for that outcome.
• Don’t get bugs! Leaving food out, forgetting to clear old food or forgetting the dishes too long can cause bugs easier than you would imagine. And if you get bugs, you (or part of your security deposit) may have to pay for an exterminator.

Paperwork and other requirements to rent.

• Security deposit. When first signing a lease, a security deposit will most likely be requested. This is for the renter to pull from if damages occur within the time of rental and if damages are found/created when you move out.
• Credit. Most renters will want proof of your credit to ensure you can afford the rent. Know your credit score and information. But, if you don’t have any credit (since not a lot of college students and young graduates do), please refer to the next point.
• Cosigner. A cosigner can typically be used if you don’t have any credit for proof that someone will be able to pay rent. If someone else will be helping you pay rent, they should be the cosigner.
• Application to rent. Some renters will require an application to rent and will consider this first when deciding to rent to you. If possible, on the first visit, come prepared with the application to rent ready to hand over if you liked the tour.

There is a different payment structure.

• First month’s rent. This will usually be due soon after you sign a contract or upon move in. Prepare yourself to make this payment upfront.
• Security deposit. As mentioned previously, a security deposit will typically be paid upfront as money for potential damages. This can be a pretty hefty amount, so be ready. But, whatever does not get used on damages during your stay there should get returned to you.
• Utility bills. These have most likely been lumped into one full payment for on-campus living, but off-campus will typically be paid monthly per use. This means they can be more expensive during certain seasons or depending on your level of use.
• Other bills. Just like the utility bills, some other amenities have been lumped into on campus housing payments like cable, wifi, etc. These will become extra payments to make and you should prepare to make these payments each month.

If you’re renting for the first time, what are you most excited for? What are you afraid of? Share your thoughts in the comments below. And, if you have any questions about our properties or the rental process itself, give our Northstar Properties team a call at 405-310-6450.

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