Imagine touring a rental property with green shag carpet, wood-paneled walls and a 1960s Frigidaire Flair oven. You probably wouldn’t be super enthused — you might even bolt for the door. Odds are, if you feel this way about outdated spaces, so do your renters.  If your property has any of the preceding elements or if it simply feels a…

Security deposits are usually required when leasing apartments. Although it’s uncommon for a landlord or an apartment manager to waive this fee, renters that have unblemished credit may be able to rent a property without having to pay this additional fee.  If you have paid a security deposit fee upon signing your apartment lease, here are some steps you can…

Ken Weinstein is attempting the impossible in the Germantown neighborhood of Philadelphia: gentrification without displacement. Removing blight without removing long-term residents.  From redlining in the 1930’s to urban renewal projects of the ‘50s and ‘60s to the ‘Brooklynification’ of low-income neighborhoods all over the country today, the American housing story has always been one of discrimination and displacement for those…

The beauty of home decor is that it’s an opportunity for you to design your home as you wish. In fact, the kitchen is a great place to add some stand-out features and a unique countertop is a great way to get your kitchen to pop! Fortunately, kitchen countertop options are endless; you can choose from different species of natural…

Hunting for an apartment in a large, competitive city is difficult. However, you can find the best apartment for your needs with the right tips. Here are some that will help you to land your dream apartment in a competitive city like New York or San Francisco: Asses Open Houses Properly To stay ahead of the other potential renters, you…

Last week I met with Michele Cohen, a Philadelphia attorney and leading advocate for renters’ rights to learn about the troubling epidemic of evictions in Philadelphia. 1 in 12 renters in Philadelphia face eviction every year, a far higher rate than New York City or other comparable cities. In visiting the Municipal Court, I saw first-hand the greatest challenge that…

Landlords are often cautious about who they decide to rent to. Understandably concerned about their future tenant’s ability to pay their rent on time, landlords often use credit scores, employment status, and previous rental experience to determine if you will be a trustworthy tenant. One of the toughest parts of the renting process is convincing your future landlord that you…

Even in NYC, natural disasters can destroy homes and leave tenants homeless for long periods of time. Being prepared for the worst is the best way to avoid any landlord disputes during such a hard time.

There is something uniquely appealing about gallery walls. Have you ever wished that you could have something similar in the comfort of your own home? As a renter, it’s crucial to find ways to spruce up a boring white wall, since many landlords will not allow any painting of walls. A DIY gallery wall might be the right solution for…