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.

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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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8 Topics to Consider Before Choosing a Roommate

8 Topics to Consider Before Choosing a Roommate

Choosing a roommate is never an easy task. Since they’ll be sharing a part of your life with you, it’s important to ensure your living styles complement each other. Here’s a list of the 8 most important topics to discuss when searching for a roommate.

 

Cleaning When discussing cleanliness with potential roommates, it’s important to be honest. If you only wash dishes once the sink is full, let them know. If you Lysol the countertops three times a day, let them know. Neither habit is better or worse, there just needs to be a discussion on how to balance these habits before moving in. If there are major differences, it’s okay to move on and look for a roommate that cleans similar to you.

 

Sleep People use their home for sleeping more than anything else. If your sleeping schedule is opposite that of your roommate, you may run into trouble. If a roommate can’t sleep through the smallest noise, that may limit what the other roommate can do in their own home. Make it a point to discuss common sleeping habits — like needing a window open or sound machine to fall asleep. Though these may seem like small considerations, but it’s best to talk things out now.

 

Guests and Significant Others Sharing a home with another person also means sharing your home with their guests. Maybe both of you are party animals or maybe one of you considers “ a few friends over for tea” a party? To figure out those similarities and differences, take initiative and ask. Additionally, consider guests who may be visiting more frequently, like a significant other, and how you feel about that. Make your preferences known and be aware of theirs before signing the lease.

 

Environmental Impacts How someone feels about the environment doesn’t seem like a big deal, but these opinions can affect a roommate dynamic. Ask your potential roommate about their environmental consciousness because it can affect how you both handle tasks like taking out the trash, running the AC, or even cooking. Though it may seem like a personal opinion, asking about their preferences is the only way to ensure they align with yours.

 

Past Roommates If your potential roommate had issues in the past, you may find this information beneficial. Some problems may have been caused by the other person, but they’re probably not blame-free in every issue with past roommates. Find out what aspects makes them difficult to live with. If those quirks are balanced or matched by yours, you may have a good fit. If not, don’t be afraid to part ways — keeping things civil.

 

Schedules Daily schedules can make or break a happy living situation. If roommate schedules are too similar, there may not be enough alone time. On the other end of the spectrum, schedules that differ too much may cause distance and negative feelings. Schedules may affect other things such as guests visiting, cleaning, and sleeping habits. Before taking the plunge in living together, discuss how much time you’ll be spending at home, work, out of the house, and check if your schedules correlate well.

 

Pets Pets are another roommate you have to care for entirely. Most leases outline pet restrictions, but it’s important to establish your own. If your potential roommate can’t say no to that cute furball on the roadside, but you don’t want to pay the pet deposit, you shouldn’t be roommates. Allergies and guests with pets should be also be addressed in the conversation.

 

Habits/Hobbies This is a broad topic to discuss with a potential roommate because you don’t know what hobbies they may have. And maybe, their hobby is a deal breaker you hadn’t considered. Talk with them about your quirks or odd interests, asking (without judgment) about theirs. This topic can address core values that may differ between you two, which could be valuable to know before moving in with someone.

 

Finding the perfect roommate is a difficult but not an impossible process. For more information on our multiple or single bedroom properties, please contact our team at 405-310-6450.

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15 Questions to Ask Before Renting an Apartment

15 Questions to Ask Before Renting an Apartment

Whether it’s your first apartment or you’re a seasoned renter, there are several pitfalls that take place when apartment hunting. It’s easy to think about the fun aspects of renting. You know — decorating, hosting parties, relaxing on the patio.

But, while you’re there daydreaming, the landlord is skimming over rules and fees that could seriously come back to haunt you. Before you agree and sign that dotted line, be sure to ask your landlord or leasing agent these 15 questions before renting an apartment.

1. What are the lease terms?

In theory, you’ve probably done some online research or have called around about pricing. If you haven’t, make sure you’ve established your moving dates, budget and start inquiring about floor plans.

2. Are any of the utilities included?

Some communities may cover utilities, others may not. Ask if water, gas, electric or trash removal is covered in the lease. And if they offer cable/internet packages, hop on it. Typically brands will offer a lower rate for multiple users. Keep these expenses in mind as you compare budget and apartment price.

3. Will I need a co-signer?

When you submit a rental application, landlords require tenants to pass a credit check or meet a pre-set income. Usually this means you’ll be required to have a minimum of twice the monthly rent. If you don’t meet these standards, you’ll need a co-signer to sign the lease. To avoid possible issues later, we recommend having a parent or family member sign.

4. Do you require renters insurance?

More and more apartments are beginning to require renters insurance. This provides coverage for all your personal belongings in the case of a fire, flood, personal injury or theft. It’s typically a low monthly cost, but be sure ask your apartment if they receive a good deal by conducting insurance through a specific company. That could make the difference between $10 per month versus $30.

5. How much will I pay in up-front costs when I sign the lease?

If you’re renting an apartment, most security deposits will range anywhere from $100 to $300 depending on the floor plan. For most rental properties, landlords will require at least a month’s rent paid up-front (as a security deposit) in addition to first month’s rent. Some places also charge application and admin fees, so be sure to ask before signing the dotted line. Additionally, find out if the deposit is refundable and what charges you’ll be responsible for.

6. Which roommates will be held responsible if we don’t make rent?

When signing for an apartment, you’ll be placed into one of two categories: tenant or occupant. A tenant means you’ve signed the lease agreement while an occupant means you live there, but aren’t contractually bound. If rent goes unpaid, there are repercussions for tenants. We highly recommend both parties signing to avoid one person taking all the heat in a bad situation.

7. What would it take to break the lease?

Relocation and emergencies happen. Before signing your lease, find out the penalties for breaking the lease and remember to get it in writing. Not following protocol could result in forfeiting your deposit and burning a bridge for future rental preferences.

8. Am I allowed to decorate the apartment?

Majority of leases will state that the apartment must be resorted to the same condition in which you received it. In some places, decorating is prohibited. And with others, there are specific clauses in the lease that require written permission before painting, using wallpaper, driving nails, etc. Ask your landlord or leasing agent the specific rules so you don’t risk losing your security deposit.

9. What are the policies about guests and listing on Airbnb?

Some communities limit the number of guest you can have per month. It’s also risk to list your room on Airbnb. Most leases will mention a guest policy, but strictness varies from case or case. For example, in some apartments, having a visitor for longer than two weeks considers them an occupant (which will need to be documented by the office).

10. Are pets allowed? If so, is there a fee?

Whether you own a pet or are considering adoption, make it a point to ask about the apartment’s pet policy. Most communities will charge a non-refundable pet deposit to cover deep cleaning and any damages caused or a monthly pet rent. Pet policies vary widely, so it’s important to ask your leasing agent upfront.

11. Are there building quiet hours or fees for using communal spaces?

Are there rules in the community regarding quiet hours? Most often, it’ll be lined out in the lease. But if not, ask the agent how strictly these rules are enforced and if there are any charges using areas like the gym, laundry or pool.

12. How safe is the surrounding area?

When you’re touring the apartment, take a good look around. Is it a relatively safe area? What measures has the property taken to ensure safety for its residents? Ask the leasing agent or the property manager to cover security features (unit alarms, gated entry, etc).

13. How does parking work?

In most apartment communities, you’ll likely get assigned to your rent unit. If you can, try to find out where you’ll be located in the complex and ask about parking. And if you can afford the extra costs, explore your options for priority parking or a garage for additional security.

14. What happens when there’s a maintenance problem?

Maintenance is a crucial factor when choosing an apartment. Some complexes have on-sight managers and others conduct maintenance through a third-party service (during specific office hours). Be sure to ask the leasing agent how best to report a maintenance emergency and how quickly a response to expect. Also, ask whether it will result in any out-of-pocket fees.

15. How often does rent go up? And, by how much?

You’ll typically experience an increase in rent upon renewal, but these changes aren’t always lined out in the lease. Keep close communication with your property manager and keep your eye out for rising rates. If you’re looking for long-term housing, the rate may be a deciding factor.

What questions or advice have you found helpful when apartment hunting? Share your thoughts and stories with us in the comments below, we’d love to hear them!

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5 Things a Dog Can Do to Make Apartment Living Easy

5 Things a Dog Can Do to Make Apartment Living Easy

As a dog, you have very few responsibilities. Being a dog in an apartment can be a bit more challenging, though — even in pet-friendly apartments. There isn’t as much room to play, which you love doing. Your human may have a smaller closet with fewer shoes, which you love chewing up. However, dog life in an apartment can be wonderful as long as your human is happy.

Here are five things you can do to make your human happier and take care of what truly matters, YOU.

Make sure you get some time outside.

The hardest part about being a dog in an apartment is usually space. There just isn’t room for you to run around and play as much as you want. To keep this from affecting you, make sure to ask your human to go out regularly. Some pet-friendly apartments even offer amenities like dog parks. In fact, encouraging your human to take you out consistently for a walk or run helps keep your energy in check. Since the furniture always seems to be so chewable, using up energy outside is a great way to keep your human happy.

Have your own space in the apartment.

Your human may allow you on the couch and in their bed from time to time, but it’s important to designate an area for yourself. This is useful when you get in trouble and your human needs some space to cool off. It is also useful for you to have a place to relax and keep your toys. Most of the time when your human is exhausted or stressed, they want you to be there with them. But, similarly, they need some alone time while you might also need some space to call your own.

Use the restroom on schedule.

The number one way to keep your human happy is not using the floor or carpet as a restroom. I get it! They haven’t been home in a while, you drank too much water after your morning walk, and you really have to go. Accidents happen. But, if you designate using the restroom consistently when your human takes you out (see tip 1) then everyone in the apartment stays happy. The tricky part is getting your human to stick to that time schedule. You may still need to ask to go out from time to time, but your human should be patient with this.

Be open to training.

Training is a tough one because sometimes your human just doesn’t make sense. They seem to always make the weirdest requests. Like hand shaking? Oh well, you still get a treat at the end of training so it’s well worth it. Not only that, but other humans will be so impressed with you and your human if you are trained well. This really helps in apartments because a well-trained dog will always make an apartment owner feel better about letting you live there. At pet-friendly apartments, there are usually dog treats offered at the front desk and you can show off your training for snacks.

Comfort and love your human.

The best way to keep your human happy when you live in an apartment is to continuously love and comfort them. Life as a human is hard, but they loved you so much that it is worth the extra trouble. Don’t forget to snuggle them at night, greet them right when they walk in the door, and always make them feel good. I’m sure they would do the same for you.

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