Tag: Apartment Living
Features That Define the Perfect Neighborhood
If you’re searching for a new apartment, one of your top concerns should be the neighborhood in which it’s located. While you’ll definitely need to think about the size of the apartment, as well as its layout, aesthetics, and amenities, the neighborhood will come to define how you live, how you travel to and from your apartment, and more.
So, what makes a neighborhood “ideal,” and what features should you be looking for?
The Role of Subjective Choice
The “perfect” neighborhood doesn’t exist, and for a very simple reason: people have different preferences. To some, the perfect neighborhood is one where all the homes are close together, so neighbors can see each other, interact with each other, and build a community together. To others, the perfect neighborhood is one where the homes are spread apart, so you can have more privacy and solitude. While there are some general features that most people agree on (for example, low crime rates are better than high crime rates), you should understand that much of your decision will be based on your personal preferences.
That said, we’ve assembled a list of priorities and factors most important to consider for your decision.
Location
First, you’ll need to consider the overall location of the neighborhood. Is this close to where you work, or close to where you want to go to school? Is it close enough to the city that you can get there with a short drive, but far enough away that you don’t have to deal with issues related to the city? This is one of those variables that means different things to different people, so make sure you consider the location carefully.
Accessibility and Walkability
How easy is it to get to this neighborhood? For example, are there public transportation access points nearby? What about the roads—does this neighborhood have a multitude of well-maintained roads nearby? Is it close to a highway so you can get where you’re going faster? An accessible neighborhood can make your life easier in many ways.
Similarly, how walkable is this neighborhood? Are there plenty of well-maintained sidewalks you can use for exercise or transportation? Are they well-lit at night, and protected from traffic?
Crime Rates
Crime rates are a variable that just about everyone can agree on. The lower the crime rate in a given neighborhood, the better. No neighborhood is exempt from crime, so even a near-perfect track record doesn’t mean you’re 100 percent safe; however, you’ll rest much easier at night knowing you’re in a well-protected neighborhood. Make sure you look up both overall crime statistics and violent crime statistics, as they may differ.
School Districts
If you have children, you’ll definitely want to think about the schools associated with this neighborhood. Different schools can provide very different opportunities for your kids; if they get a good education, they’ll be much better equipped to live a productive, happy life. Of course, even if you don’t have kids, you’ll want to think about school districts. Good school districts tend to attract attentive, responsible parents, and tend to positively influence property values at the same time.
Outdoor Activities
What kinds of outdoor activities are available in this neighborhood? Depending on your personality, you may thrive on time spent outdoors. For example, is there a playground where your children can release some energy and meet and play with other neighborhood kids? Is there a walkable trail where you can run, walk, or bike for some exercise? Is there a wooded area or a nature reserve nearby? Is there a community pool you’ll have access to?
Population Density
You’ll also want to think about the population density of this neighborhood. For some people, high population density is a good thing; it means you’ll never feel lonely, and you’ll have plenty of opportunities to interact with your neighbors. It can also make the neighborhood feel cozier and more alive. By contrast, a low population density can also be favorable to some; they may prefer more personal space and the perception of greater privacy.
Aesthetics
Next, consider the aesthetics of the neighborhood, including the types of homes available there. This is largely a question of personal taste; some people love the polished, sleek look of modern architecture, while others prefer the unique nature of older homes. Walk or drive through the neighborhood and consider how you feel when you look around; is this a place that feels like home?
Amenities
If you’re moving into an apartment community, you’ll also need to consider the amenities available to you. What kinds of perks or bonuses are available to the people who live here? Is there a park, dog park, community pool, or a fitness center to which you’ll have access?
Nearby Businesses
Think about the types of businesses that exist in and around your neighborhood. For example:
- Restaurants. Are there places to go out to eat? Can you see yourself becoming a regular at any of these restaurants?
- Bars and clubs. What’s the nightlife like? Are there opportunities to socialize with other people?
- Gyms. Are there gyms or fitness centers nearby to help you stay in shape?
- Shopping. What kinds of shopping options are available? Are you able to get to a grocery store quickly for some last-minute supplies? What about department stores and other types of stores? Are there convenient options in driving distance?
Future Value
Finally, carefully consider the long-term prospects of this neighborhood. Does it look like this neighborhood is going to become more popular in the next several years? Will there be more job opportunities and better amenities on the horizon? 
Are you interested in moving into a community with access to all the neighborhood features you’ve always wanted? Consider moving into a Venterra apartment community! Browse Venterra communities throughout the United States, or
Contact Us for more information today!
Venterra Pets SLAY Howl-O-Ween Pet Costume Contest
GRAND PRIZE WINNERS
1st Place – Kira, Lilo, and Marshall
Costume: Who Let The Dogs Out?
Community: South Shore Lakes, League City, TX
2nd Place – Melzinha
Costume: Chucky, The Cutest Little Killer
Community: The Vinings, Stafford, TX
3rd Place – Onyx
Costume: The Skelli-dog
Community – Forest View, The Woodlands, TX
Thank you to all of our residents and their furry friends that entered the our first Pet Costume Contest.
Until next time, have a spooky & safe Halloween.
Looking for a pet-friendly community to call home? All of our Venterra apartment communities welcome up to three pets with many of them featuring Bark Parks! No matter what apartment community you call home, our team of cat and dog lovers realize that your pet is part of your family. Find a community near you today and get started with a free price quote.
How to use Venterra’s Touchless Package Management
It’s no surprise that package deliveries have increased with more people working remotely and children attending school from home. Managing online shopping and package deliveries efficiently has resulted in the need of a more seamless and safe experience.
As the pandemic shifts the multifamily industry and how we offer amenities, there have been some unique opportunities to provide innovative and seamless ways to provide package management services. Venterra’s SMARTPACKAGE lockers now offer a safer and easier way for residents to retrieve their packages with a touch-less experience.
There are two contact-free package pick-up methods available to properties with our SMARTPACKAGE lockers:
- Barcode: Scan the barcode included in your delivery notification (email or text) to open the locker door without having to use the touchscreen.
- Mobile App: Download the Parcel Pending mobile app (available for download on the App Store or Google Play Store). By scanning the barcode or pushing the button in the app notification, the locker door will open without having to use the touchscreen.
Celebrating Venterra’s Healthcare Heroes
Venterra Realty, a property management company that owns and operates 60 apartment communities in the US, is home to over 5,000 Healthcare Heroes. Whether a doctor, nurse, EMT or pharmacist, medical professionals have risen to the challenge during the COVID-19 pandemic, and their contributions to keeping us safe have not gone unnoticed. As we navigate the difficulties and stressors the pandemic has plunged upon us all, we are so grateful for the sacrifices Healthcare Heroes are making and, as an organization, we want to say Thank You!
To support medical professionals needing to move, we waived deposits for new leases with approved credit in June. Now, we are celebrating our current Venterra residents in the medical field by sharing their stories, providing residents with honorary “Health Care Hero” t-shirts, and offering over $50,000 in gift cards as our way of simply saying, Thank You.
Online Reputation Specialist, Johnna Bacak said, “When we asked our residents to nominate a Healthcare Hero within their community, I never expected we would get over 500 submissions. Each nomination was full of intimate details about the Healthcare Hero, and I was humbled after reading each submission. I felt such a connection with them!”
According to Johnna, “Some of my favorite nominations were spouses nominating each other, expressing their love and gratitude. One of my favorites is Juan, from Northbridge in Orlando, Florida, nominating his wife, Nicole. He said, ‘Nicole an amazing and caring human being. She started her career as a medical assistant, and now she is pursuing her physician assistant masters. She is devoted to helping others and I am proud of her for that. She is passionate about her job, and it reflects in her personal life. I am proud to call her my wife. She looks just as good in her scrubs as she did in her wedding dress.’”
Here are some of our other favorite stories.
Paramedics, nurses, respiratory therapists, doctors, hospice caretakers: we are so privileged that these Healthcare Heroes call our communities home and we are honored to surprise them with special Healthcare Hero t-shirts and gift cards! Check out some of their pictures below.
Looking for a way to thank the medical professionals in your community? Here are some great ideas to consider!
Looking for a great place to live amongst heroes? Visit us at Venterraliving.com.
The Metropolitan, Louisville’s Top Rated Apartments
When looking for an apartment home, there are so many things to consider — style, feel, amenities, location, customer service (to name a few). To some people, they want all of the bells and whistles when it comes to amenities and apartment features, and they find the community that fits those needs. And while that is great, what is often missing or overlooked is the service component. They were so blinded by everything the apartment community has that they failed to look at the people caring for your home and needs.
When you’re shopping for an apartment home, you will be swept off your feet. You’ll be catered to and treated like you’re the best person on the planet. You’ll get so excited and ask, “When can I move in?!” You’ll be so blinded by all of the luxury and allure, that you may not remember to ask about the service or how you’ll be treated once you’re a resident.
At The Metropolitan there are no tricks. What you see when you walk in the door is what you get. We will WOW you and make your life easier by offering great conveniences like SMARTLEASING (where you can actually apply to see if you’re qualified before putting any money down), SMARTHUB (Mobile Payments, Mobile Service Request Management, Mobile Feedback), and more. And you’re not the only resident we care about, we also love our furry residents and will make yours feel right at home whether inside or outside in their own bark park. In fact, we allow up to 3 pets per apartment home! Who else can say that?
There are many choices in Louisville when it comes to finding the perfect apartment home to fit your needs. And whether you choose to live at The Metropolitan or not, we want you to find your home. The Metropolitan offers a combination of classic architecture and modern interiors with awesome interior updates like wood-like flooring, granite countertops, stainless steel appliances, washers and dryers in every home, and updated fixtures. And we have many more improvements in the works!
And while our awesome neighbors have great amenities and many of the bells and whistles that scream luxury, their service unfortunately doesn’t come close to touching ours. Our goal is to provide a world-class living experience, and we can proudly say that we are Top Rated on ApartmentRatings.com! And what’s even better is that 100% of Venterra’s properties are Top Rated.
Who else can claim that accomplishment?
And in case you’re wondering, this is how our competitors’ scores compare to ours on Apartment Ratings (as of April 2019).
- Metropolitan – 80%
- Enclave at Breckinridge – 53%
- McArthur Park – 0%
- Breckinridge Square – 78%
- Jamestown Apts – 48%
With our stellar on-site leasing, management, and maintenance teams we will do our best to ensure your needs are met. And if for some reason we mess up, we will make it right. At the end of the day, your happiness is our #1 priority. And don’t worry, we won’t take you on a dream date and never call you back. In fact if you do fall for the luxury without service, we’ll be right there at your side when you’re ready to breakup and find your new home.
Take it from some of our friends who already know the difference with The Metropolitan.
“From the quality of the apartment to the friendly and helpful staff, this apartment complex is a GREAT choice.” – Victoria W., March 2019
“The new management took over in October and you can see a difference already. The office is very professional and reliable. The maintainability staff are very professional and quick. The said that are more improvements on the way, that will make of this community and excellent place to live.” – Verified Resident, ApartmentRatings.com, January 2019
“I’ve lived at the Metropolitan since it was re-modeled. There have been several management and ownership changes. It was immediately apparent that Venterra was different. The maintenance staff are always out working, in the grounds or in apartments. The grounds are meticulous, as are any common areas. The area is well-lot and parking is never a problem. It’s very pet friendly-lots of dog waste stations scattered throughout the complex. My favorite is the new dog park!! It’s very sturdy and well constructed. The apt office has dog water bowls and treats. The staff are very friendly and available to help. I was planning to move in February, but I stayed because of the management.” – Cammie S., March 2019
Top Rated Metropolitan is Where Even Your Competitors Want to Be
Favorite Things to Do Near 4123 Cedar Springs
Dallas, Texas is a large metropolitan city with so many great neighborhoods, eateries, activities, and clubs. Whether you live here or you’re looking to move here, It can be a bit overwhelming. How do you even begin to choose which neighborhood to visit or hang out?
With most cities, you’ll want to take some time to explore the downtown area. This is where you’ll find an exuberant amount of restaurants, coffee shops, shopping, sightseeing and more. You’ll be among some of the tallest buildings in the area boasting stunning views of the city. Dallas is a unique city. While some refer to it as a concrete jungle, it offers modern architecture and big expansive skies. And you can reach almost any neighborhood or area within 20-30 minutes thanks to having numerous tollways and highways that lead to your desired destination.
When you’re visiting downtown or looking for a new home, you’ll for sure want to visit the Oak Lawn neighborhood. Located near Uptown and Downtown, this area puts you equidistant to both areas. Dubbed as the gayborhood of Dallas, Texas (boasting some of the hottest gay clubs in the country), all are welcome to explore, visit, and call Oak Lawn your home.
Venterra is lucky to have 3 apartment communities near downtown Dallas, Texas. Recently renovated and renamed is our luxury apartment community, 4123 Cedar Springs. 4123 Cedar Springs is a mixed-use community located off of the ever popular Cedar Springs Road. Just below the apartment community, you’ll find Cedar Springs Tap House, Tacos Y Mas, Ai Sushi Sake Grill, and Onyx Nail Bar. If you fancy walking or are into the electric scooter craze, you can easily get to Kroger and Whole Foods with little effort.
Restaurants
If you’re looking for more upscale or eclectic dining, the Oak Lawn neighborhood hosts some of the best Dallas, Texas has to offer. Here are some of our favorite dining options.
- If you’re looking for a more casual night out, head over to Eatzi’s where you’ll find a fresh salad bar and hot bar with a nice selection of home cooking. Grab a bottle of wine and find a seat on the patio.
- If you’re in the mood for seafood, be sure to check out TJ’s Seafood Market and Grill. Tucked inside of a seafood market, TJ’s offers fresh seafood from all over the world. It’s a unique and worthwhile experience.
- Perhaps you want to have a meal loaded with spices from the likes of India and the Middle East. Grab a seat at Cosmic Cafe and be sure to grab a glass of freshly made spiced chai.
- For a neighborhood staple that’s been around for 30+ years, check out Parigi. Described as a Paris bistro meets New York (with its outdoor patio), this little upscale bistro has made its name and reputation in Dallas. Enjoy the likes of American, French, and Italian inspired cuisine.
- If you love meat and the occasional celebrity sighting, make your way over to the infamous Al Biernat’s. Known for its high quality steak, gourmet desserts, and extensive wine list (650 and counting), this is the perfect place for a celebration big or small.
- For the sushi lover out there, Uchi is not to miss. Started by James Beard award-winning chef Tyson Cole in Austin, Uchi made its way to Dallas and has continued with its reputation and popularity. The rolls and seafood selection are fresh and the fried milk dessert is not to be missed.
Coffee Shops
4123 Cedar Springs has so many of the best coffee shops in Dallas within 10 minutes. Here are some of our favorites.
- Ascension Coffee – whether you’re wanting single origin coffee from places like Ethiopia, Colombia, or Kenya, or wish to grab a glass of wine along with some brunch and bar bites, Ascension is a great place to be.
- Sip | Stir Coffeehouse – located near West Village, Sip | Stir offers gourmet lattes (s’mores anyone?), light eats, and fresh juice from local suppliers.
- Mudsmith – this edgy hipster vibed coffee shop opened its second location just minutes from 4123 Cedar Springs. Try their signature cortado for a nice boost.
- LDU Coffee – This little coffee shop of Fitzhugh is not one to be missed. LDU which stands for Land Down Under is owned by two Australian brothers. Enjoy a proper flat white along with a piece of their homemade banana bread with butter. Their quirky wifi passwords are not to be missed and change regularly.
- Brewed + Pressed – if you’re looking for a healthy option, Brewed + Press is the place to be. With homemade raw smoothies, juices, truffles, and a coffee bar, you’ll find what you need here. Try a golden milk latte (with a shot of espresso for an extra jolt) and a slice of their raw vegan cheesecake.
Night Clubs
If you’re looking for a fun night of dancing, check out some of the hottest clubs in the area.
- Station 4 – recognized as one of the top gay clubs in Dallas, Station 4 offers lots of activities, dancing, and some of the best drag shows in the area.
- Round-Up Saloon – if you love dance lessons and singing competitions, look no further than the Round-Up Saloon
- Lizard Lounge – if you’re into top DJs and EDM, check out the Lizard Lounge. With themed nights and unlimited dancing, this is a fun place to be.
Activities
4123 Cedar Springs puts you close to downtown Dallas, Texas where you’ll find some of the best museums and venues in the area.
- Klyde Warren Park – this 5.2 acre park is built over the highway. Yet when you’re in it, you feel like you’re standing on solid ground. It has everything from an amphitheater with live events and concerts to a long line of food trucks to feed your appetite. Grab a book and sit along the side or take your dog to the dog park. There’s also a large playground for children to adventure around.
- Dallas Museum of Art (DMA) – If you’re look for a free and cultural experience, check out the DMA. Enjoy free admission to its permanent exhibits or pay a small fee to visit seasonal and special exhibits.
- Perot Science Museum – If this building itself (with its slanted architecture) doesn’t grab your attention, then perhaps the enormous dinosaur inside will. The Perot Museum is a fun place for all to enjoy, learn, and explore.
- Highland Park – if you wish to see some of the largest mansions and best high-end shopping (Chanel anyone?), take a drive through Highland Park. Not to be missed during the holiday season when houses are covered in incredible light displays.
- West Village – one of the top outdoor shopping areas in Dallas, West Village will suit your entertainment needs with the Magnolia Theater, numerous shopping options, and dining galore.
Midtown Houston is the Place to Be
Midtown Houston Apartments
Midtown is becoming one of the trendiest and ever growing areas in Houston. Sandwiched between Downtown Houston and the hipster neighborhood of Montrose, Midtown Houston creates an urban vibe that’s sustainable, walkable to many restaurants, parks, and in the heart of a thriving arts and entertainment scene. And with a 50% increase in growth since 2012 (according to Midtown Houston), it continues to attract new residents and visitors. And since it’s one of the most walkable neighborhoods in Houston, it makes sense why people are flocking here.
Here are some of the top reasons people choose Midtown:
- Walkable
- Bikeable
- Excellent Transit Options
- Awesome Restaurants & Bars
- Entertainment
- Modern Apartment Communities
Walkable
When people think of Houston or Dallas, the term Concrete Jungle often comes to mind. These cities are commuter cities and often require a vehicle to get around. Public transit is an option, but you can spend half your day in the car depending on where you’re going. The best part about Midtown Houston is that it’s very walkable. According to Walkscore.com, most errands can be accomplished by foot in Midtown. With a walkscore of 86/100, you’re close to great restaurants, parks, gyms, and stores. This sets Midtown apart from many neighborhoods in Houston. Grab your Fitbit, and enjoy how many steps you’ll get in each day!
PRO TIP: Calais Midtown is within walking distance of many awesome restaurants, bars, coffee shops, and even the Light Rail. Save some gas and instead set off on foot.
Bikeable
If you enjoy biking or wish to go somewhere a little farther than walking distance, Midtown is very bike friendly. In fact many people will rent a shared bike or grab their own and hop on over to Montrose area, which is another cool eclectic neighborhood in Houston. According to Visit Houston, the area’s street grid, historic districts, and eclectic architecture make it a fun (and easy) place to peruse by bike. And if you make it to Montrose or another neighborhood and don’t feel like biking back, simply grab your bike and head to the B-Station to ride the light rail back.
PRO TIP: Grab your bike and ride over to Baldwin Park or Discovery Green for some nice relaxing green space.
Excellent Transit Options
When you don’t feel like walking, biking, driving, or getting a ride share, Midtown has many transit options to choose from. With more than 28 bus route options and a light rail, you can get to Downtown, Montrose, Uptown and other neighborhoods in 30 minutes or less. The METROrail is the light rail option in Midtown. With access to 3 different lines, you can get to where you go with little fuss and cost.
PRO TIP: Calais Midtown is only a 10 minute walk from the Ensemble HCC or McGowen METROrail stops.
Awesome Restaurants and Bars
Midtown is home to nearly 216 different restaurants, bars, and coffee shops. And according to Walkscore, people in Midtown can walk to an average of 10 restaurants, bars and coffee shops in 5 minutes. Whether you’re looking for waffles, tacos, burgers, or Vietnamese cuisine, Midtown has no shortage of options to ignite your palette.
PRO TIP: Calais Midtown is close to some of the best restaurants in Midtown. Enjoy being right across the street from JINYA Ramen Bar, Brennan’s, Maple Leaf Pub, and Gaslamp Gastropub.
Entertainment
Midtown is home to an array of entertainment options. Enjoy live music at The Continental Club, check out a show at The Ensemble Theatre, or enjoy some comedy routines at Howl at the Moon. There are also a variety of museums to spend a rainy afternoon. You can also test your detective skills and enjoy an outing to the Escape Room.
PRO TIP: Calais Midtown is within 10 minutes of all of these entertainment venues.
Modern Apartment Communities
So you’ve had some time to scope out Midtown and you’re ready to call it home. Awesome! You’ve picked the right neighborhood. Midtown has more than 200 apartment communities to choose from. Whether you’re looking for a luxe high rise or mid rise apartment or something a little more vintage and seasoned, Midtown has an impressive selection to choose from for your next home.
PRO TIP: Don’t feel like spending hours on end looking? Look no further than Calais Midtown. Calais Midtown is a mid rise that offers one, two, and three bedroom apartment homes with full size washers and dryers, stainless steel appliances, granite countertops, city views, upscale interiors, and more. Community features of Calais Midtown include garage parking, a resident pavilion, a dog park where you can host up to 3 dogs, fitness center, SMARTPACKAGE Lockers for storing your packages when they arrive, swimming pool, fitness center, and more.
And the best part about living at Calais Midtown is that is part of the Venterra Realty family. 100% of Venterra’s apartment communities are Top Rated on ApartmentRatings.com, and Calais Midtown is high above the city score!
Favorite Things to Do Near Bradford Mills Lofts
Louisville, Kentucky is a large metropolitan city with so many great neighborhoods, eateries, activities, and clubs. Whether you live here or you’re looking to move here, It can be a bit overwhelming. How do you even begin to choose which neighborhood to visit or hang out?
With most cities, you’ll want to take some time to explore the downtown area. This is where you’ll find an exuberant amount of restaurants, coffee shops, shopping, sightseeing and more. You’ll be among some of the tallest buildings in the area boasting stunning views of the city. Louisville is a unique city that is making a name for itself. In fact, it is no. 28 on Livability’s list of the top 100 cities in the United States.
When you’re visiting Louisville or looking for a new home, you’ll for sure want to visit the Germantown neighborhood. Located near Downtown and the Highlands and Old Louisville neighborhoods, Germantown is the bridge drawing these places together.
Venterra is lucky to have 2 apartment communities in Louisville with their newest addition Bradford Mills Lofts being located in the heart of Germantown. Bradford Mills Lofts is a trendy apartment community that was once an old mill.
The character of its origin are reflected throughout the community with exposed brick walls, open ceilings, and spacious interiors. This community is beautiful inside and out with architectural features, walls, and flooring that are all original. Featuring one and two bedroom floorplans, Bradford Mills Lofts include stainless steel appliances, granite countertops, solar shades, brushed nickel finishes, high ceilings, and exposed ductwork. Within the community, there’s also a pool, bark park, outdoor space, and fitness center.
Restaurants
If you’re looking for restaurants filled with character and a lot of charm, Germantown’s selection is the cream of the crop.
- Check’s Cafe – an oldie but a goodie classic German diner that’s been in business since the 1940’s
- Hammerheads – enjoy a hip vibe and house-smoked meat in a contemporary pub-like setting serving more upscale options and twist on traditional pub cuisine.
- EiDERDOWN – European inspired southern comfort food with focus on seasonal/local ingredients with a German twist.
- The Eagle – Food and Beer hall with a contemporary twist on southern food
- The Fat Lamb – modern neighborhood restaurant in the heart of the highlands serving craft cocktails and creative cuisine.
Coffee Shops
Germantown is close to a lot of great local coffee shops that source their organic fair trade coffee.
- Bean – local roaster serving deep blends from Latin and South America
- Heine Brothers’ Coffee – Ecologically minded coffeehouse chain pouring organic & fair-trade brews & teas.
- Quills Coffee – Hip, casual local chain outpost featuring artisanal coffee in a quiet, modern setting.
- Highland Coffee Company – Easygoing coffeehouse for organic fair-trade drinks plus baked goods, including vegan & gluten-free.
- Day’s Espresso & Coffee – Local fixture offering espresso drinks & snacks in a laid-back space with comfy seating.
Activities
Bradford Mills Lofts puts you close to downtown Louisville and some of the hottest attractions that make this city shine.
- Kentucky Kingdom – fun amusement park featuring thrilling roller coasters and a waterpark
- Louisville Slugger Field – watch Kentucky’s minor league baseball team play in this beautiful stadium
- Kentucky Science Center – Kentucky’s largest hands-on science museum located on Museum Row
- Churchill Downs – a Thoroughbred racetrack home to the prestigious and infamous Kentucky Derby
- Bourbon Trail – Kentucky is home to the world’s largest selection of Bourbon. Enjoy visiting and tasting selections at 10 different distilleries in Louisville.
All of these attractions and more are located within close proximity to Bradford Mills Lofts in the Germantown neighborhood of Louisville. Germantown is home to many eclectic restaurants, shops, and contemporary renovated apartment communities. Louisville is a city on the rise and the perfect place to call your next home or weekend getaway.
Hey! I Was Sitting There – How to Live with Roommates
We’re living in a time where people (a.k.a. millennials) value experience and adventure over solitude, and paying for an apartment all by themselves. It’s not to say that people aren’t living alone, but there is a bigger emphasis on having more funds for travel, food, and entertainment rather than spending more on rent. So we’re finding more and more people living together to split costs. When you’re in college, it’s common to live with multiple people and share space. When you enter the adult world and start working, you can sometimes forget what it’s like to live and cohabitate with others.
Suddenly you are in a place where you’re sharing dishes, furniture, space, and sometimes even food. Perhaps you’re living with a friend from college or you decided to go out on a limb and find someone on Craigslist. Whether you’ve known your roommate for a long time, or you’re just meeting for the first time, the challenges of living with another person are the same. How do you go about living in a peaceful space with little conflict? How do you make the space feel like yours if all of the furniture and kitchen items belong to the other person?
Here are some tips to help improve your environment and live in harmony.
- Create some ground rules for your space. Have a conversation at the beginning so you’re both clear on what is being shared vs what is off limits. Perhaps you’re okay sharing your furniture or dishes, but your expensive shampoo or Beats headphones are off limits. Set the ground rules upfront so you’re both on the same page.
- Keep up with shared expenses. We live in an age of their being an app for everything! So if one person is paying rent, set up measures so the other roommate is paying you back on time. Or if you’re splitting bills or go to a restaurant and get one check, be mindful of what you’re each spending and don’t leave it up to one person to cover it all.
- Learn the other person’s schedule. Is your roommate a night owl and do they like to stay up late in the living room with the TV on? Or do they get up early to head to the gym and like to run the blender at 6 am? Are you working late and leaving early to catch a flight? Do you want to have friends over for game night? Be open and communicate your schedules with one another. Perhaps you buy a calendar to place on the fridge so you know what’s going on with the other person (and aren’t surprised when you walk in and there are people over when you get home from a long day).
- Leave happy notes, not passive aggressive reminders. If you notice that toilet paper is running low, don’t stick a post-it on it to remind the other person to buy more. Send them a message or call them instead. If you are going to leave notes, let them be encouraging and happy. “Have a great day!” or “I baked some cookies, help yourself!”
- Create a System for Chores. Whether you live alone or with someone else, the same is true. Trash will need to be taken out, the dishwasher will need to be unloaded, common areas will need to be cleaned. Create a system that works for you and your roommate. If you run the dishwasher, the other person unloads it; rotate weeks on who is cleaning; take the garbage out when it’s full rather than waiting for the other person to get to it. No matter how you go about it, make sure you’re both on the same page and communicate if you are unable to keep your commitment.
- Include the other person in your plans. If you’re having a party or a few friends over for dinner, let your roommate know if they’re invited or if you’d like to have the space to yourself. Let your roommate make a choice whether or not they want to attend.
- Be respectful of the other person’s space. Don’t just assume you can walk in on your roommate in their room or in the bathroom. Unless you have an open relationship, respect their space, and knock before entering.
- To share food or not. With roommates, it’s typically easier for each person to buy their own food rather than one person buying it all and sharing. Unless you eat the same diet or are doing a cleanse together, it’s probably better to stick to buying your own food with the exception of bulk items like flour, spices, oils, etc. And if you do share, be mindful of how much you’re using and whose turn it is to replace the item.
- Communicate! If there is something that needs to be replaced or something is missing, or you notice a pattern with the other person that is causing conflict, communicate it rather than letting it build up. When you hold onto annoyances, anger, or resentment, you’re likely going to explode at some point. It’s better to be open and honest and communicate how you’re feeling or what you’re noticing rather than let it build up.
- Hang out together. Just because you’re roommates, doesn’t mean you can’t also be friends. Especially if you’re moving in with a stranger or someone you don’t know very well. Create a dinner night or go on a date to get to know each other better.
Test out these tips and see which ones work best for you and your roommate. Don’t be too much of a stickler and instead set an intention for your space and home. Life is too short to live in conflict, so remember why you chose to have a roommate and let that intention be your guide. If it’s temporary until you have enough money saved to live on your own, honor that. Or if you’re choosing to have a roommate so you can have more time to travel and live for experience, remember that.
At the end of the day, life is too short to live in conflict.
How Bradford Mills Stacks Up Against Other Comps in Louisville, Kentucky
Welcome to Louisville, Kentucky, the epicenter for bourbon, baseball, and derbies. Whether you’re looking to indulge in some of the finest bourbon in the world or catch a race at the prestigious Kentucky Derby, Louisville is a city full of heart that’s worth exploring, investing in, and calling home.
Speaking of homes, Louisville has an array of apartment homes to choose from so selecting a neighborhood that fits your style is key.
When looking for a new apartment home there are so many factors to consider–Proximity to work, Amenities, Things to do in the area, and Customer Experience are some of the top areas residents consider when shopping for a new home. It can be a daunting process when you allow overwhelm to settle in. With so many choices out there today, how do you choose?
Let’s take the guesswork out and give you a taste of some of the best places to live in Louisville, Kentucky and learn which one is our favorite.
Bradford Mills Lofts is an adaptive reuse property, located in Louisville, Kentucky, in the Germantown neighborhood; an old neighborhood, now being renovated one house at a time and quickly becoming the desirable location for young hip professionals. The community consists of two converted warehouses, one of which was built in 1870, and the other was built in 1910, adding extra vintage charm to this historic community. The exterior, architectural features, walls, and flooring are all original.
Pros
- Converted Warehouse
- One and two bedroom apartments with 10 layouts to choose from
- Stainless steel appliances
- Granite countertops
- Solar shades
- Brushed nickel finishes
- High ceilings with exposed ductwork
- Resident Package Service
- Swimming Pool
- Owned and managed by award winning Venterra Realty
Cons
- Old building that has been renovated many times
- Because it’s an old warehouse, the hallways echo
- Solid steel and brick construction makes wifi difficult – so make sure you get a strong router
Experience loft-style apartment homes in a renovated cotton mill. Blending style and modern convenience, Germantown Lofts features studio, one, and two bedroom homes that offer savvy features and inviting indoor and outdoor spaces.
Pros
- Renovated Cotton Mill
- Large green and parking areas set on 8 acres
- Offers 3 cabooses or “tiny homes” available for rent
- Onsite Retail
- Dog Park (coming soon)
- Refinished hardwood floors
- Granite countertops
- Stainless steel appliances
- Stackable washer & dryer in every home
- Two fitness centers
- Package lockers
Cons
- Adjacent to train tracks, and landscape deteriorates as you literally cross to the “wrong side of the tracks”
- Thin walls creating noise transfer
- Impose “quiet hours” from 10pm to 8am, ask everyone to keep it down
- No reserved or covered parking spots
- Small Pool
Located just a short drive from downtown Louisville, Highland Station offers a vibrant city setting convenient to fine dining and boutique shopping. You can’t go wrong with these Highlands apartments. Our residents enjoy the balanced lifestyle of being able to quickly access the city and walk to many places while not having to worry about things like parking.
Pros
- New Apartment Community (built in 2018)
- Large club room with kitchen and lounge area
- Free Starbucks coffee in office
- Faux wood floors
- Granite countertops
- Stainless steel apartments
- Washer & Dryer Included in each apartment
Cons
- Small fitness center
Nestled between tree-lined borders and creekside serenity yet just a walk away from Downtown, Axis on Lexington is an enticing new development that combines repurposing and relevance to living in Louisville.
Pros
- New apartment community (built in 2017)
- Across the street from Breslin Park
- Pet friendly with Dog Spa and Dog Park on site
- Stainless steel appliances
- Stackable washer and dryer in each home
- Quartz countertops
- Saltwater swimming pool
- Golf simulator
- Outdoor lounge areas
Cons
- Parking lot is prone to flooding
- Garages available but for rent (additional $75 – $115 per month)
- Ceiling fans available for additional cost
- Valet trash not available
All of these apartment communities are great options for living in the Germantown area of Louisville, Kentucky. And, if you’re wanting to be in the hippest most sought after apartment community in Germantown, Bradford Mills Lofts is the place to be.
At Bradford Mills Lofts, there are no tricks or teases. What you see when you walk in the door is what you get. The Better Living Experience team will WOW you and make your life easier by offering great conveniences like SMARTLEASING (where you can actually apply to see if you’re qualified before putting any money down), SmartHub (Mobile Payments, Mobile Service Request Management, Mobile Feedback), and more. And if for some reason you move in and your home isn’t what you thought it was or you have a sudden change come about, you can take advantage of our 30-day Live it. Love it. Guarantee. Having this freedom to move in and test the waters (literally) is worth moving here.
And the best part is that Bradford Mills Lofts is that it’s newly part of the Venterra Realty family which means that the aim is to invest its time and resources into improving this community and offer world class customer experience. If you don’t believe us, just look at all of their apartment communities’ reviews. Venterra takes customer experience seriously and is one of the only apartment management companies that can claim that 100% of its communities are Top Rated on ApartmentRatings.com. And they look forward to adding Bradford Mills Lofts to the list.
With such a stellar on-site leasing, management, and maintenance team, Bradford Mills Lofts will do its best to ensure your needs are met. And if for some reason there’s a problem, they will make it right.