Pros and Cons to Large Floor Plan Apartments

 

Pros and Cons to Large Floor Plan Apartments

Finding a new place can be daunting.  There can be multiple floors, open formats, small spaces and large floor plans.  It can be a whirlwind to find what’s right for you. Bigger is always better though right? Not necessarily. There are pros and cons to renting a large floor plan apartment.


Pro: Large floor plans can have wide open spaces

Do you want wide open spaces?  A large floor plan may be for you.  The best part is you can show off your whole home fairly easily and wow friends and family with how much space you have. 

The space doesn’t limit your ability to throw a big party or offer a room to a few guests who want to stay over for the night.  A large floor plan apartment will let you entertain guests without the hindrance of feeling like canned sardines in multiple smaller rooms. 

You have opened up your place to welcome your guests, and being able to freely move about allows for a more social environment.  Even if you aren’t throwing a party, a large floor plan will make events feel welcoming.The possibilities are as big as your apartment.


Pro: Large spaces support large families

If you have a large family already or your family is just getting started, a large floor plan provides space needed.  Plus, you can hide messes a little easier with a little more space.  Cleaning can wait, you have other things on your plate.

Of course, you love everyone in your home, but sometimes, you just need a little peace and quiet. Extra square footage allows you to put some more space between you and everyone else when you need time to focus. Your kids might even get to enjoy their own bedroom rather than having to share with a sibling.

More people means more things. Larger floor plans will most likely have more storage to keep clutter under control.


Pro: Larger floor plans might have an office space.

This is especially beneficial to remote workers who could use an office space to segregate their work day from leisure time. The office could be a place for paying the bills, working on a side hustle, doing your favorite hobby or playing computer games.

A dedicated home office space is also beneficial for contract workers because it is an expense you can deduct from your taxes each year. 


Pro: You can enjoy all the natural light.

Large spaces can support large windows, and it’s nice to have all the fresh air blowing between rooms. Opening up your space and letting the light iN is the next best thing to being outdoors.  Large spaces not only have the ability to let in more light, but they also feel big and luxurious with open windows. Small apartments need open windows to compensate for the limited space. Your large apartment is clearly not lacking in spaces, so the windows are just an added benefit.


Pro: More space for your style

Enjoy showing off your favorite artwork and all of your family photos with a large apartment. You are not limited by space when it comes to making yourself at home. You have enough room for shelves without feeling crowded and cluttered.

In a small space, you have to be very choosy about what makes it through the door or your apartment will be cramped quickly. You don’t have that problem in your large apartment.

There are plenty of good reasons to choose a large floor plan, but the decision comes with a few setbacks.


Con: Large spaces could mean larger utility bills.

Brace for the utility bills.  It takes a lot of energy to heat and cool a large place.  You may need to get creative during expensive seasons like the warmest summer months and the coldest days of winter.  Your family will want to remain comfortable despite the extra heat or chill in the air.

Shutting off the least used rooms and concentrating heat or air conditioning will combat high electric bills. Changing the light bulbs to LEDs will save money. Install ceiling fans for the summer, and ask everyone in the household to be cognizant of their electric consumption.


Con: It’s easier to accumulate too many “things”
Many families are choosing to downsize or live with less, but it’s hard when you have a larger floor plan. It’s simple to absent-mindedly keep things because you can put it in the back of a closet or on a top shelf somewhere. You also don’t want your home to feel empty, so by default, you will have more things than someone who lives in a smaller space.

If you ever decide to downsize in the future, you’ll have more things to sort through. “Things” are not bad, but you now have more things to figure out what to do with.

 
Con: It’s empty space if you can’t afford to decorate

A larger space means more room for furniture and artwork to fill the space.  If you don’t already have that and can’t afford to purchase them it makes the space feel empty and not homey.


Con: Cleaning takes a lot of work

Sure, a big place means you don’t need to constantly clean to keep the space from feeling cluttered, but it also means if you wait too long to clean, then all the chores can be overwhelming. You might need extra help to get the job done or ask the whole family to pitch in on Saturday mornings to keep the large apartment in tip-top shape.

If you live in an apartment with roommates, you might have to agree to different chores and deadlines to stay on top of keeping your large living space nice and clean.


Ready for your new place? 

Understanding the pros and cons to large floor plan apartments can help you get ready for your next move.  There are some definite benefits to having a little more room, but you need to be ready to know what that responsibility requires.  If you think you are ready to choose your next apartment, then browse our floor plans in Norman, Tulsa, Oklahoma City or Edmond.

If you have any questions, call our main office at 405-310-6450. 

For More Info:  Apartments norman okc | Apartments okc

2 Beautiful Apartments in Edmond that Won’t Break the Bank

Whether you’re a student, couple or just starting a family, an apartment is a great way to save money for future homeownership. Edmond is a wonderful community full of friendly neighbors, parks and sights to see.

Named the 11^th safest city in America by the FBI Uniform Crime Report, it only makes sense that its population has grown by 20%. If you’ve considered making the move, here are two beautiful apartments in Edmond that won’t break the bank.

Kickingbird Apartments

Kickingbird Apartments is minutes from the University of Central Oklahoma, OU Medical Center and Edmond’s finest shopping. Kickingbird is nestled in a neighborhood between Bryant and Ayers, providing residents peace among the bustling city. 

The amenities are perhaps the greatest perk, though. The property features a swimming pool, tennis and basketball courts, walking trails and more. Meet new neighbors at a volleyball tournament or catch up with friends over a barbeque. Kickingbird provides the perfect backdrop to kick back, relax and enjoy your surroundings. 

Kickingbird Hills

Looking for an apartment even more secluded? Kickingbird Hills is still within radius of the university but tucked away in the trees east of Bryant. Near the Kickingbird Golf Course, you can expect to find walking trails and scenic views. 

Surrounded by natural beauty, residents come home to a safe haven free from sirens and traffic lights. And with seven spaciously designed floor plans, your apartment is every bit as airy as the outdoors itself. 

There are endless perks of living in Edmond. You’ll find parks, museums, theatres, music venues and more. To schedule a tour of Kickingbird Apartments or Kickingbird Hills, please contact our offices at (405) 341-2332.

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What a year! We celebrated the end of the year with our annual awards.

What a year! We celebrated the end of the year with our annual awards.

Our team does great work every year, so we like to celebrate their accomplishments, have a few laughs and a lot of cheer at our annual Christmas Party.
We’d like to recognize a few of our team members for their contributions in 2018:

Individual Awards: 

Star Employee: Mike Jackson

Rookie Leasing Agent of the Year:  Diana Martinez

Rookie Manager of the Year: Laurie Deshotel & Georganna Bell

Rookie Service Technician of the Year:  Sean Collinsworth

On Call Champ: Eddie Martinez

Work Order Stud:  James Gwinn

Top Leaser of the Year: Jenny Guthrie-155 

       2nd Place: Erica Weir – 128

       3rd Place:  Monica Williams & Brook McClure – 108

Leasing Agent of the Year: Jenny Guthrie

Make Ready Tech of the Year: JR Fields 

Leasing Congeniality of the Year: Bralon Thomas

Manager Congeniality of the Year: Tammy Kimbrough 

Assistant Manager of the Year: Hope Bussard 

Manager of the Year: Debie Phillips 

Lead Tech of the Year:  Jose Suarez

Customer Service Person of the Year: Kim Rhodes

Community  Awards       

Service Team of the Year: Savannah Square and Harbor

Make Ready Property: Coventry Park 

Highest Consistent Occupancy of the Year: Kickingbird Hills 99.00%-jpg 52

     2nd Place Kickingbird Hills 98.62%

     3rd Place Coventry Park 97.93%

Company Average = 96.41%

Property of the Year: Coventry Park

For  More Info:  Apartments norman okc | Apartment Tulsa

16 Areas to Find the Best Apartments in OKC

Oklahoma City is known for its rich cultural history. But as one of the fastest growing (and most affordable) cities in the U.S., the area is experiencing a boom of incoming jobs as the skyline continues to expand. 

 Whether you’re moving to Oklahoma City from out of state, visiting for fun or simply wanting to move deeper into the metro, you’ll find yourself in good company with plenty of new exciting things to explore. 

Oklahoma City can’t simply be visited – it has to be experienced. In today’s blog, we’ll be highlighting the unique food and sights each district has to offer. (And if you’re an incoming resident, we can even help you get settled in.)

1. Adventure District

This area of Oklahoma City is perfect for family-friendly attractions. Dive into the state’s history at the National Cowboy and Heritage Museum or spend a day experimenting and exploring the Science Museum of Oklahoma. And for all those animal lovers out there, the Oklahoma Zoo and Botanical Garden is our wildest experience yet.

2. Asian District

In the 1970s, an influx of Vietnamese immigrants transformed the area near Northwest 23rd street and Classen into a hub of Asian culture. Today, the district is most revered for its food – including local favorites, Pho Cuong and Pho Lien Hoa.

3. Automobile Alley

Automobile Alley, running along Broadway, just north of downtown is a revitalized district full of vintage dealerships, neon signage, industrial lofts and eclectic storefronts. Some of the most popular places here include Plenty Mercantile, Schlegel’s Bicycles and Cultivar “farm to fire” Kitchen.

4. Belle Isle

If you’re in the mood for some retail therapy, head on over to the Penn Square Mall in Belle Isle and wrap up the day at the eclectic Whiskey Cake. If you’re looking for a place to settle down, check out La Villa while you’re in the area. With quick access to the highway and Northwest Expressway, you’ll get where you need to go – fast.

5. Boathouse District

Have some energy to burn? The Boathouse district is one of Oklahoma City’s most up-and-coming areas with Olympic training facilities, kayaking, paddle boarding and sailing for every skill type. If you love the great outdoors, this is the best place to visit!

6. Bricktown

Bricktown is one of the most thriving areas of entertainment and late-night dining. Watch for fly balls at an OKC Dodgers game or grab a ticket to the renowned DeadCenter Film Festival. As far as food goes, you’ll find everything from sushi to tacos and creole.

7. Classen Curve

The Classen Curve in northwest OKC has tripled in size over the last couple years and is full of shopping possibilities. Here you’ll spot national retailers including West Elm, Anthropologie, Lululemon and Whole Foods Market.

8. Deep Deuce

Deep Deuce just north of Bricktown was the heart of African-American and jazz culture in the 1920’s. You’ll spot these wonderful cultural influences in its many dining spots and retailers. If you’re a foodie, be sure and check out the Deep Deuce Grill, Stag Lounge and Urban Johnnie.

9. Film Row

Film Row, once home to the film distribution offices for Hollywood’s major studios, is now the creative hub located west of downtown Oklahoma City. If you have a sweet tooth, we recommend visiting Caeli’s Sweets, Eats & Bar for desserts made from scratch. And if you’re in the mood for some vintage arcade games, swing by Flashback Retropub for 80’s themed karaoke and games.

10. Lake Hefner

Looking for a place to unwind and escape the city life? Lake Hefner features beautiful scenic trails, parks and not to mention – the iconic lighthouse. If you’re working in north side Oklahoma City, Stonebrook is a great apartment complex to check out. It provides quick access to Hefner Parkway and the Kilpatrick Turnpike.

11. Midtown

Just west of Automobile Alley, Midtown features a good mix of vintage restaurants and hip, new retail shopping. Irma’s Burger Shack and Kaiser’s Ice Cream are some iconic favorites while Dust Bowl and the Bleu Garden are new additions to the area’s urban renaissance.

12. Paseo Arts District

For the friendly, freethinking and wild at heart, the Paseo district is known for its art galleries, studies, cuisine and nightlife. It’s perhaps one of the most unique areas in Oklahoma City because of its Spanish revival architecture and vibrant colors. If you can, the best time to visit is on the first Friday of each month.

13. Plaza District

While the Paseo is known for its studio art, the Plaza is more geared towards local goods and services. The area is quirky, fun and full of exciting events. You can enjoy a show at the Lyric Theatre or drop in on Saint’s Sessions, featuring Oklahoma City’s finest jazz and blues. This area is also home to the state favorite, Empire Pizza.

14. Quail Springs

Quail Springs is another one of Oklahoma City’s up-and-coming areas with plenty of retail and dining options. Shop the sales at Quail Springs Mall or take a swing at TopGolf. Main Event and iFly are some other additions to the district that are drawing crowds. And with quick access to Kilpatrick Turnpike and i-235, it’s a great area to live in. Quail Run and Quail Ridge are both great options that place you in the middle of the action without breaking the bank.

15. Western Avenue

The Western Avenue district has steadily grown over the last few years and is home to many restaurants and local retailers. The Drum Room, Sushi Neko and the Sandwich Shop are sure to please. And as far as shops go, Guestroom Records and Antique Avenue are must-sees.

16. Uptown 23rd

Uptown is one of Oklahoma City’s most recent revitalizations. It’s easily accessible and also home to the Buckminster Fuller-inspired gold dome building. The Drake, Guyutes and the Pump are great options for food. As far as entertainment goes, The Tower is home to many events and live shows.

We hope this has given you a small glimpse into the vibrant life of Oklahoma City’s residents. If you’re planning a move into the metro, we’d love to answer any of your questions and help you find a place to stay. Call us at any of our OKC locations and we’ll be happy to schedule a private tour!

For More Info: Apartments norman okc | Apartments Edmond

Rules to live by if you’re going to be a good apartment neighbor

Rules to live by if you’re going to be a good apartment neighbor

There are plenty of positives about renting an apartment, but living in close proximity to several neighbors usually, doesn’t make the “pros” list. If you are living in an apartment, you might have someone above you, below you, on either side of you or all of the above. 

All of these neighbors means you can have a great sense of community or a lot of frustration because of personality conflicts. The good news is you have influence over your experience because if you’re a good neighbor to those above you, below you and on either side of you they will appreciate your efforts and return them in kind.

Turn down the volume

Scary movies are better when they are loud and so is a good song, but try to save your bass bumping for the day when you own a house. Constantly listening to someone else’s music or television shows is frustrating for everyone nearby. 

What if your neighbor is trying to concentrate on an important work or school assignment, but they can’t drown out the noise flowing from your apartment to theirs? 

If you do have an event planned with the potential for loud music or voices, be courteous and let your neighbors know of your plans so they can choose to be away or at least be prepared for the additional noise. Guests who don’t live in an apartment may not be acutely aware of their volume like you, but a kind reminder can go a long way in keeping sound at a reasonable level.

Don’t practice your clog dancing on the third floor

If you have ever had someone living above you, then you know it sometimes sounds like you live below a family of clog dancers. 

Your neighbors probably aren’t doing jumping jacks at 6 a.m., but it can sure sound like it sometimes. If you are on the top floor, be mindful of how hard you walk, especially during early mornings or late nights. If you are on a bottom floor, try to cut them some slack. The structure of the building may make casual walking seem like stomping. 

If there is a problem with a loud walker above you, then just casually and nicely let them know. Hopefully, they will be more aware of the noise they are making and adjust for you.

Know where to park (and where not to park)

It will only be just a minute right? There’s an empty spot next to the elevator but belongs to someone else. It’s not good etiquette to take a parking spot not assigned to you, even if it is just for a minute.
The person who is renting the spot might show up, and they will be stuck waiting for you to move before they can park. It is simple courtesy to stay in your space, even if it means walking in the rain a little longer than comfortable.

Be quiet in the stairwells and don’t slam your exterior door

Loud conversations in the stairwell will easily travel into your neighbors’ apartments. So does slamming your front door. Try to take phone calls when you are away from the building or in your apartment. Always take a spare moment to close your door gently rather than letting the wind grab it or slamming it.

Keep your house reasonably clean to deter unwanted pests

Leaving out leftovers causes more than just a smelly kitchen. Those crumbs are tasty to unwanted house guests like ants or cockroaches. The problem is they don’t stop at your apartment. They travel everywhere. If you’re fighting these annoying little bugs, it is likely your neighbors are too. Take the time after every meal to pick up your messes so you can keep these creepy crawlers out of your home, and be a good neighbor by helping prevent them from making your home their home too.

Be courteous in common areas

Do you share a laundromat, pool area or a grassy knoll for walking your dog with other tenants at the apartment complex? If so, it’s best to try to keep these spaces in tip-top shape. Pick up after your pets in the walking areas. Don’t use all of the washers or dryers while doing your laundry, and be considerate at the pool by not blaring your music or taking up too much space.  

Check how late it is before vacuuming (Or doing any other loud activities)

Sometimes, you need to do chores, and it won’t be quiet. There is no way you can vacuum silently or move a large piece of furniture without a few loud bangs. If you get the urge to clean late at night, opt to do the dishes, clean the counters or organize the cabinets. Save the other todos for more normal hours like early evenings or late mornings.

Participate in property events

Is the apartment complex hosting a wine party or a dog parade? Whatever it is, make an effort to join the festivities. When you get the opportunity to meet your neighbors in casual events you have the chance to build new friendships. Even when you aren’t at events, a simple hello in the hallway is enough to be neighborly.

Address any issues cordially

Issues can and do arise when you spend so much time living next to other people. If your neighbor does have a habit of making your apartment a tough place to live, just address the issues kindly. If they are walking loud all hours of the night, they might not know it is a problem. Most people are happy to accommodate once they know they are doing something unpleasant. So, knock on their door and say hello and start the conversation. 

Are you looking for a great place to call home? Visit a NorthStar Property or give us a call to learn about availability. 

For More Info: Apartments norman okc | Apartments norman okc

11 ideas to decorate your apartment living space for the holidays

11 ideas to decorate your apartment living space for the holidays

The last two months of the year are full of cheer, hot beverages, warm fires, lots of family time and fun decorations. What’s not to love? 

It’s fun to get creative when decorating for the holidays, but with limited space, things can get tricky. Luckily there are many ways to showcase your style while keeping things simple, small and stress-free.

1.  Say no to wall damage

Regardless if it is Thanksgiving, Christmas or any other holiday, It doesn’t make sense to cause damage by using nails and screws for a temporary occasion. You also might have lease terms prohibiting the use of fasteners because it will put holes in the walls. 

Instead, use adhesive hooks because they can be used again when the holidays are over. These can be found in most department stores and come in a variety of designs for different uses. Another practical option is Washi tape, and it comes in a variety of decorative prints.

2. Pinecones are nature’s gift during the holidays

Grab a basket and visit a neighborhood park to pick up some pinecones. Paint them green and apply a star to the top to make miniature Christmas trees. You can also attach string or ribbon to use them as ornaments. Pinecones are great for both Thanksgiving or Christmas if you decorate them to fit the season. Since they are free, grab a few, paint them to match your theme and then just throw them away.

3. Choose bright colors

Think outside of the box when picking colors for your holiday displays. Fun colors such as orange, pink, blue, and yellow will brighten places with inadequate lighting such as apartments with small windows.  In small spaces, sometimes it helps to ask yourself, “what other purposes will this serve,” before you buy a new decoration. If it doesn’t have more than one use or one season, then keep hunting down other options.

4. Display children’s artwork, or make your own.

If you have children, it’s hard not to love the festive drawings and paintings they bring home each year around Thanksgiving and Christmas. Instead of stashing these away, display them in your apartment using decorative washi tape to secure them to the wall. They will appreciate your use of them, and it is fun to see how their artistic abilities change over the years. Don’t have kids? PBS has a lot of simple ideas that can be fun to do yourself.  

5. Transform Thanksgiving into Christmas

Transforming holiday decorations save you time and money. Christmas garland pairs nicely with harvest décor for Thanksgiving. Find a neutral (but festive) tablecloth and matching candles. A light beige may match your orange Thanksgiving decor, but also match your white Christmas theme. Make your wreaths easy to transform. A green wreath decorated with small plastic pumpkins can easily be changed by removing the pumpkins and adding Christmas bulbs.

6. Show off your Christmas cards

Grab a piece of cardboard, wrapping paper, ribbon, and clothespins for an easy way to display your Christmas cards. Wrap the cardboard tightly with wrapping paper, then add the ribbon by wrapping around to the back and fastening with tape. Attach Christmas cards each time you receive them to the ribbon with a clothespin. You can typically find these supplies around your apartment and it’s cheap enough to discard so you won’t waste space when packing up.

7. Think small when it comes to the tree

Miniature artificial trees are a good option for small spaces. They have pre-lit versions and miniature ornaments available for decoration. To get a real feel, you can gather pine branches and place into decorative vases filled with water.

Half trees are even an option for someone who only has a tight corner to fit their festive tree.

8. Use Christmas bulbs all year

Don’t pack up your holiday decorations after the first of the year, they can still serve a purpose in your apartment. Place them in glass vases or bowls to create a unique look. Pair them with artificial flowers or leave them by themselves. When you’re shopping for holiday decorations, keep in mind colors that fit into your apartment’s year-round color scheme.

9. Hang your stockings without a fireplace

If your apartment doesn’t have a fireplace, use adhesive hooks to hang stockings. Take it a step further and weave lights or garland through the hooks before each stocking is hung. You don’t need a big mantle to have a fun display. If your kids ask how Santa makes it inside, then just tell them he doesn’t need a chimney to deliver their presents because he is magic.

10. Choose sturdy decorations and protect your breakables

Be practical when it comes to storage after the holidays are over. Breakables can be a hassle to wrap when placing into storage containers. Try finding wooden or plastic figures that can be easily packed when they’re not in use. 

You probably won’t live in your apartment forever, so keep movability in mind If you buying new decor. If you do have breakables, reuse your wrapping paper after opening gifts to keep them safe, and always save the packing materials to use year after year.  

11. Utilize unused spaces for storage

With small living spaces, it can be difficult to find spots to hide bulky tubs. Try finding shallow but wide containers that easily slide in unused spaces like under couches and beds.  Put shelving units in an outdoor closet or even a coat closet to better utilize vertical space. If you have to, rent a small storage unit or ask a family member to borrow some attic space. 

Looking for a new place to call home this winter? Well look no further, NorthStar Properties provide spacious apartments, plenty of amenities and convenient locations. For more information about unit availability or locations give our NorthStar Properties main office a call at 405-310-6450

 For more Info:  Large Condominiums OKC | Pet friendly Apartments Norman , etc

7 Sneaky Recommendations to Lower Your Apartment Heating Bills

7 Sneaky Recommendations to Lower Your Apartment Heating Bills

Winter is coming.

Is your apartment prepared for the chilling temperatures ahead?

You’ve probably heard some common ways to conserve your energy bills — window film, caulking, etc. But, these solutions mainly pertain to homeowners. No fair, right?

We have some good news, though. Even if you’re just renting, there are still plenty of ways you can keep your place toasty (without costing an arm and a leg). Keep reading to learn our seven sneaky ways to lower your apartment heating bills this season!

 1. Reverse, reverse.

You may think of your ceiling fan as a way to cool down, but did you know it can actually keep heat from escaping your apartment? Simply flip the rotation switch (which makes the blades travel counter wise), set to a low speed and enjoy the savings.

 2. Blinded by the light.

During winter, take advantage of the daylight sun by keeping the curtains drawn. As soon as it starts getting dark, draw your blinds and curtains shut. An extra tip: opt for thicker material or black-out curtains during the colder seasons. They’ll help prevent drafts from escaping through your windows.

 3. Shut the front door.

We mentioned drafts traveling through your windows, but did you know they can do so through your door as well? Stop by your local store and pick up a draft stopper. Or, if you’re feeling adventurous, take to Pinterest and create your own!

 4. Layer by layer.

You can never stock up enough on blankets and fuzzy socks! Lowering your thermostat a degree or two won’t make a huge temperature difference but will save tons of energy over the course of the season. 

 5. Light it up.

Did you know lighting is one of the easiest solutions to save? When you opt for ENERGY STAR bulbs, you’ll not only enjoy better output — but 75% less energy as well. Another perk of those lights is they last six to 10 times longer than your average incandescent bulbs.

 6. Power down.

Electronics and appliances account for 15% of a home’s electrical use. Surprisingly enough, these devices are drawing in energy, even when switched off. Unplug any chargers or power adapters when they’re not in use. Another option is using a power strip as a central “power” off point.

 7. Keep it circulating.

Close off areas of your home that don’t receive much traffic — think laundry rooms, closets and bathrooms. By simply closing the doors of your apartment, you’ll increase the circulation of warm air. Another thing to do is ensure all vents are open and clear of obstructions (especially those floor vents with sofas).

We hope you enjoyed these sneaky ways to save on your apartment energy bills this winter. What tips and tricks have you accumulated over the years? We’d love to hear your thoughts and stories in the comments below!

For more information about our Norman, Oklahoma City, Edmond and Tulsa apartments, give our team a call at (405) 310-6450.

More Detail: Small Apartment Communities okc