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If you’ve ever wanted to live in a minimalist apartment, here’s your chance. New year, new home.

Have you looked at your closet, bookshelves and stacks of files, and thought, maybe there’s something to be said for a minimalist apartment? For many minimalists, it’s this defining moment that starts them on a journey in which less is more. Less clutter, less stuff and less relentless organizing often leads to more free time to enjoy the things that truly matter.

With spring cleaning a few short months away, now’s a perfect time to use these minimalist apartment tips to create a clutter-free environment. Less clutter, after all, means fewer things to clean.

Not only do you get a jumpstart on spring cleaning your apartment, Neuroscience News reports you’ll also enjoy the side benefits of reduced stress and anxiety. Sounds like a win-win!

Two things can sidetrack the best of intentions: perfectionism and procrastination. These tips will help you stay focused without feeling overwhelmed. And, as a brilliant, unknown author once said about perfectionism, “No one is perfect…that’s why pencils have erasers.” So, let’s get started with one room at a time.

Minimalist apartment tips for your bedroom

Peter Walsh, the international organizer and author of seven organizing and decluttering books, said, “Clutter isn’t just the stuff on the floor. It’s anything that gets between you and the life you want to be living.”

Keep that in mind as you go through the many items you’ve collected in your bedroom. And remember the lesson behind the story of the tortoise and the hare: Slow and steady wins the race. Take it room by room and one area at a time. When you’re down to that last area, possibly just in time for the big spring clean, you’ll feel a sense of renewal and freedom that’s hard to define until experienced.

The dreaded closet

Closets can quickly become storage central with clothes and shoes you never wear and boxes with who-knows-what in them. It’s time to change that.

  • Every item goes into a keep, donate or discard pile.
  • To help you decide, ask two questions:
    1. When was the last time I wore or used this? The 90/90 minimalism rule suggests you only keep items you’ve used or will use within a 90-day timeframe.
    2. Does it bring you joy or serve a purpose?
  • Now, while you have everything out of your closet, it’s a good time to vacuum and clean the baseboards. In fact, as you go through your home pre-spring cleaning, taking time to do the baseboards gives you a great jumpstart.
  • A natural cleaning solution for this sometimes hard-to-clean area is one part white vinegar to one part water plus several drops of your favorite essential oil, like lemon, lavender or pine. Note: If you have pets, these essential oils are considered toxic. Safer ones for your furry friends include cedarwood, frankincense and clary sage.

Nightstands and dresser

Dressers can be a go-to spot for objects that hold memories, which makes them one of the more challenging decluttering areas.

  • Start by taking everything off the top and placing it in one of your three piles. If something holds sentimental value, put it to the side.
  • Pick up each item that holds a memory and consider if you feel a sense of freedom by letting it go or a sense of loss. And remember, memories aren’t in things; they’re in you.
  • Sort through your drawers. Socks with holes? Discard. Shirts you’ll someday wear but never do? Donate.

Minimalist apartment tips for your kitchen

Stand back and take a look at your kitchen. Can you see the countertop? Now’s the perfect time to consider what kitchen gadgets you actually use.

Do you have an electric wok a well-intentioned relative gave you as a gift that you’ve yet to get out of the box? When deciding which items to donate, it’s helpful to consider that there’s someone out there who may really appreciate it!

  • Go through each drawer and cabinet one at a time with the same intention. Remove items, place them in one of three piles, clean the cabinet and make a specific spot for everything.
  • A mixture of two parts baking soda and one part water is great for cleaning spots on painted or laminated cupboards and drawers. Let it sit for a few minutes before removing it.
  • If you’re short on time, consider doing just one kitchen cabinet or drawer a day.
  • For the ultimate jumpstart on spring cleaning, consider deep cleaning your appliances one at a time. A good DIY mixture to remove grease is one part white vinegar and one part blue Dawn. This task may require your favorite upbeat playlist and some elbow grease.

Minimalist apartment tips for your bathroom

Pre-spring cleaning offers a great time to go through your bathroom’s often-ignored medicine cabinet and under the cabinet sink.

  • Check for expired products and items you haven’t used in the last three months. If throwing away old medicine, be sure to scratch any personal information off the label to protect your privacy, and throw the container and medicine away separately.
  • Go through each drawer and shelf. Are you finding makeup you haven’t used in who knows how long? The Mayo Clinic offers some good advice on when it’s time to say goodbye.
    • Mascara and liquid eyeliner: safe for three months.
    • Pencil eye and lip liners: safe for one year.
    • Water-based foundation: safe for one year.
    • Oil-based foundation: safe for 18 months.
    • Cream-based foundation and blushes: safe for at least six months.
    • Lipsticks and lip gloss: safe for six months to one year.

Minimalist apartment tips for your living room

Your living room should be a sanctuary from the world, a place to relax, rejuvenate and enjoy time with friends and family. Every item should speak to the heart of the matter or be so incredibly functional you can’t do without it.

  • Remember, fewer things to move means fewer things to clean. With that in mind, remove items from shelves (including bookshelves) and the tops of tables.
  • One by one, ask yourself, do you really need this item in your life, or is it simply taking up space?
  • Clean shelves and table tops.
  • If you need a space for magazines, books and games you’re not ready to part with, lift-top coffee tables provide a great storage area while reducing clutter.
  • While sorting through your living room, consider vacuuming out the window tracks and washing the windows to get an extra spring-cleaning jumpstart.

Jumpstart spring cleaning and create an intentional life

You’ll be amazed at how getting rid of stuff not only frees up your space but your mind as well. To keep things tidy until the spring cleaning session, ensure everything has a place to call home and finds its way back there after use.

The outcome? You’ll understand the sentiment behind less is more and find yourself living a more intentional life in your newly minimalist apartment.

Still looking for that clean slate? Browse our apartments and houses for rent here.

Source: rent.com

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Designing high-end homes is a multi-layered process rooted in a deep understanding of the homeowner’s lifestyle and personality. While infusing creative distinction and achieving harmonious fusion are the fundamental principles of designing a personalised space, architectural elements such as dynamic scaling, tailored circulation and curated spaces that showcase the occupant’s unique style and personality are essential in transforming a liminal space into a unique yet authentic reflection.

Interior decor tips to design a high-end home (Photo by Pixabay)

In an interview with HT Lifestyle, Vineeta Singhania Sharma, Founder Partner and Principal Architect at Confluence, highlighted that the fundamental design principle in creating spaces that not only cater to the user’s needs but also reflect their individuality and celeb-like charisma is defining the balance between the unique lifestyle and personality of the client. She elaborated –

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  • Defining the Style: The first step is to define the purpose of the home. Is it a maximalist paradise, a minimalist retreat, or does it embrace the latest trends, or perhaps something more timeless and established? While some clients opt for an inward-looking design that creates a sanctuary within, like Kendall Jenner’s 6,625-square-foot Spanish-style Malibu mansion, others prefer merging indoors and outdoors seamlessly, blurring the lines between nature and luxury—similar to Dakota Jonhson’s serene getaway estate in LA, designed by architect Carl Maston. It is essential to understand the occupant’s taste by pinpointing the critical elements that shape near-ordinary spaces into exceptional homes.
  • Scale and Dynamic Design: High-end homes are not just about opulence; they are dynamic and engaging. We must design with scale in mind. Whether a cosy reading nook or a grand dining hall, each room should tell a distinct, engaging story that amplifies the space’s dynamism and contributes to the narrative.
  • Circulation for Lifestyle: The layout and circulation within the home should be tailored to the homeowner’s lifestyle. High-end homes demand distinction. However, such homes require privacy but often require accessibility for staff and guests as well. This balance is essential to ensure the space is functional and comfortable.
  • Creative Distinction: High-end homes are designed to stand out. To achieve the delicate balance between privacy and accessibility, featured spaces with iconic pieces as placeholders are encouraged. This could be a unique sculpture, a one-of-a-kind chandelier, or even a custom-designed piece of furniture, creating multiple focal points within a space that define the ubiquitousness of a high-end celebrity.
  • Harmonious Fusion: What makes these homes exceptional is combining an unusual mix of interior elements—furniture, lighting, art and rugs—into an eclectic blend of exclusivity while maintaining harmony. Each piece contributes to a unified, intriguing atmosphere. The challenge lies in selecting pieces that may seem unrelated at first glance but, when brought together, create a cohesive and intriguing atmosphere that resonates with the user’s dynamic personality.
  • The Art of Layering: High-end homes are a canvas for artistry. Every space is carefully layered with art, statement pieces, textures, and other objects that reflect the client’s personality. Whether it’s a collection of vintage photographs, a gallery of contemporary art, or a display of cherished memorabilia, these layers add depth and character to the living spaces. Each corner must be strategically curated with carefully selected art, statement pieces, textures, and objects that mirror the overall statement and purpose of the home, imparting depth and character to the omnipresent lifestyle of a celebrity.

According to Kuntal Vyas Aggarwal, Founder and Design Head at Resaiki Interiors and Architecture Design Studio, luxury decor is all about the finer details. He shared, “It begins with meticulous craftsmanship using premium materials like fine woods, metals, and textiles, often employing artisanal techniques such as hand-carving and hand embroidery. Elaborate ornamentation, including decorative mouldings and intricate carvings, adds a sense of grandeur and sophistication. Luxury is further heightened by the inclusion of rare materials like marble, onyx, precious metals, and gemstones, seamlessly integrated into various elements of the space. Customisation is essential, allowing for unique and exclusive designs through custom-made furniture, bespoke cabinetry and personalised finishes.”

The interior decor expert added, “Luxury extends to textiles and fabrics, with high-quality materials like silk, velvet, cashmere, and fine wool, adding visual richness and tactile comfort. Fine art pieces, antiques, and collectables are thoughtfully curated to enhance the decor’s cultural and historical significance. Lighting is carefully considered, with crystal chandeliers and hand-blown glass fixtures creating a beautiful ambience. Achieving symmetry and balance in the design contributes to a harmonious and visually pleasing environment. Modern technology seamlessly integrates into luxury decor, offering convenience through hidden audiovisual systems and automated climate control while maintaining a clean aesthetic. Significantly, luxury decor is balanced with comfort, with plush furnishings, ergonomic designs, and thoughtful layouts, ensuring that these spaces are inviting and relaxing.”

She recommended –

  1. Limitless luxe decor: Space is a defining element of luxury decor. It encompasses several aspects that influence the perception of luxury. Luxury often entails generous space, with open floor plans and high ceilings exuding grandeur. Uncluttered designs and minimalism convey sophistication, while functionality and organisation are vital, achieved through custom storage solutions.

Abundant natural light, premium materials, and architectural details like columns enhance the perception of luxury. The seamless spatial flow between rooms and custom designs tailored to homeowners’ preferences add exclusivity. Integrating outdoor spaces and maximising views contribute to luxury and cutting-edge technology for convenience and entertainment. In summary, luxury decor involves lavish materials and thoughtful, spacious, and well-designed interiors that radiate sophistication and opulence.

2. Integrated home automation: Automation is a defining aspect of luxury decor, infusing convenience, efficiency, and a futuristic feel into living spaces. It embodies modernity and sophistication, meeting the expectations of a luxurious lifestyle. Automation’s contributions to luxury decor include –

⦁ Smart Lighting: Customizable lighting scenes, adjustable intensity, and voice control create a luxurious ambience while saving energy.

⦁ Climate Control: Automated HVAC systems allow personalised temperature control for each room, optimising comfort and energy efficiency.

⦁ Home Security: Advanced security systems with intelligent doorbells and sensors enhance safety and convenience.

⦁ Integrated Audiovisual Systems: Home theatres with automated screens and sound systems provide cinematic experiences.

⦁ Motorized Window Treatments: Remote control of blinds and shades enhances natural light control and privacy.

⦁ Smart Home Control: Centralized automation hubs and voice-controlled assistants offer hands-free management.

⦁ Customizable Scenes: Automation systems enable mood-setting scenes for various occasions.

⦁ Energy Efficiency: Automation features like smart thermostats and lighting controls reduce energy consumption.

⦁ Home Integration: Seamlessly integrated systems enhance user-friendliness.

⦁ Customization: Tailored automation adds exclusivity to decor.

⦁ Future-Proofing: Forward-thinking automation solutions ensure ongoing technological relevance.

Automation defines luxury decor by blending convenience, comfort, and control into living spaces, elevating their functionality and enjoyment.

3. Geographic directions and energies: They play a significant role in defining luxury decor, mainly through feng shui principles and cultural influences. Feng shui considers the orientation of a space, elemental balance, energy flow, natural light, colour choices, materials, and outdoor areas to create a harmonious environment. Luxury decor often aligns with these principles, using favourable orientations, balanced elements, unobstructed energy flow, abundant natural light, and colour associations to evoke opulence.

The choice of materials and textures, personalised spaces, and environmental sustainability further enhance the sense of luxury and well-being. In summary, geography and energy, guided by feng shui and cultural insights, define luxury decor by fostering balance, positive energy flow, and tranquillity, promoting a visually pleasing and harmonious living environment.

4. Meaningful and unique artwork: High-quality artwork is pivotal in defining luxury decor and infusing sophistication, cultural richness, and aesthetic value into a space. Luxury decor prioritises aesthetics, and art serves as a captivating focal point. Artwork with cultural or historical significance adds depth, while exclusivity is achieved through original pieces or limited editions by renowned artists. Art becomes a means of personal expression, allowing homeowners to showcase individuality. It also showcases artistic mastery and can be an investment.

Art influences a room’s atmosphere, scale, and balance, serving as conversation starters and intellectual engagement. Expert curatorial integration ensures seamless and sophisticated incorporation, making art an integral aspect of luxury living environments.

Source: hindustantimes.com

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There’s no universally right or wrong way to dress for an interview. It’s all about wearing crisp, clean clothing that matches the employer’s dress code and expectations, experts say.

Below, we’ll discuss how to pick your interview attire, the different types of professional dress codes and what to avoid wearing to an interview.

What to wear to an interview

Check the company’s dress code when deciding what to wear to an interview, recommends Purdue Global, an online university in the Purdue University system.

Look for photos of employees, either in the office or in a company photo, on the company’s website or LinkedIn page. Note how they’re dressed and whether they’re posing formally or casually.

Unless its employees wear a uniform, most companies adhere to one of these three dress codes: smart casual, business casual or business professional.

Consider the industry you’re interviewing in. Companies in law, finance or politics tend to adhere to more traditional dress codes. Tech or media companies tend to have more casual dress codes.

If you’re interviewing for a job that would require a uniform, including in a retail, restaurant, gym or medical setting, opt for business casual for those job interviews, recommends Coursera, a company that hosts open courses from universities and organizations online.

Dress for a position one level higher than the job you’re interviewing for, experts recommend. So, if most employees wear chinos and a casual button-down shirt, for example, go for slacks, a tucked-in shirt and a blazer.

Ask your interviewer about the company’s dress code if you’re still unsure of what to wear. If you’re working with a recruiter, you can plainly ask for advice on what to wear to an interview.

If you’d be asking the company’s hiring manager, consider asking, “How do employees dress in the office?” or “What kind of clothing is appropriate for this workplace?”

What is a smart casual dress code?

Smart casual is the most informal of the three professional dress codes. It emerged in recent years as more companies loosened their dress codes, per the Society for Human Resource Management.

Smart casual is relaxed but polished. You could wear trendier clothing and accessories from your personal wardrobe as long as they’re fit for a professional environment.

Companies in newer or creative industries — such as tech, media or advertising — may adhere to this dress code. Examples of smart casual workwear include:

  • Well-fitting pants — chinos, pleated pants or linen pants.

  • Dark blue or black jeans.

  • Sweaters, henleys, button-up shirts, or trendy blouses.

  • Loafers, flats or clean tennis shoes.

  • A clean, ironed T-shirt under a blazer.

  • Solid colors or stylish patterns.

What is a business casual dress code?

Business casual is more formal and conservative than smart casual but still doesn’t require you to wear a full suit.

Businesses across many different industries adhere to this dress code. It’s a popular dress code among employers and is considered appropriate for job fairs, networking events or professional meetings.

Business casual workwear can look like:

  • Chinos, khakis or dress pants and a belt. 

  • A clean button-up, dress shirt, formal blouse or tucked-in polo shirt.

  • Closed-toe shoes, like Oxfords, brogues, loafers or flats.

  • A blazer. 

  • Solid, neutral colors with minimal patterns.

What is a business professional dress code?

Business professional is the dressiest of the professional dress codes.

Older, more traditional industries — such as law, finance, professional services or politics — tend to adopt a business professional dress code. Executives and other high-ranking employees may also adhere to this dress code.

Some examples of business professional workwear include:

  • A suit and dress shirt.

  • Tailored pants, a dress shirt and a tie.

  • A dressy business skirt and formal blouse.

  • Heels, dress shoes or formal loafers.

  • Conservative, non-distracting jewelry and accessories.

  • Dark, solid colors, such as blue, black or gray. 

What not to wear to an interview

Unless you’re interviewing at a beachside surf shop, avoid these items of clothing, according to Zippia, an online recruiting and careers platform:

  • Graphic T-shirts. 

  • Casual sandals or flip flops.

  • Tank tops or sleeveless shirts.

  • Athleisure, sweats or pajamas.

  • Ripped jeans or pants.

The quality of your clothing is also important. Don’t wear items that:

  • Are stained or soiled.

  • Have holes or tears. 

  • Are unwashed or dirty. 

  • Are visibly old, faded or worn.

Outside of your clothing, pay close attention to your personal grooming. Career experts recommend you run through this checklist list before you leave for the interview:

  • Hair is brushed or neatly combed and styled.

  • Fingernails are clean.

  • Deodorant has been applied. 

  • Shoes are clean and free of mud or dirt.

One more tip

It’s important to wear clothing that aligns with the employer’s dress code, but that’s not the only thing that matters.

What you wear can help you feel comfortable and confident. And wearing clothing that shows off your personality can help people at the company get to know you.

So, if you feel a yellow blouse mirrors your sunny disposition, go for a shade that’s cheery but not neon. Striking that right balance can be tricky but it’s worth the effort. It’s like the old saying goes: look good, feel good.

Source: nerdwallet.com

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Do you want to learn how to sell breast milk and make extra money? If you have extra breast milk, then selling it can be a good way for moms to make some extra money while also helping babies (and others) who need it or want it. Today you will learn how to sell breast…

Do you want to learn how to sell breast milk and make extra money?

If you have extra breast milk, then selling it can be a good way for moms to make some extra money while also helping babies (and others) who need it or want it.

Today you will learn how to sell breast milk safely and legally, how much money you might be able to make, and how to make more milk if you want to.

Recommended reading: 27 Ways To Make Money on Maternity Leave

Key Takeaways

  • Selling breast milk can help you make extra income as well as help babies in need.
  • Correct hygiene and storage are extremely important, as you don’t want anyone to get sick from your milk.
  • You can use websites and milk banks to sell or give away your breast milk. Some moms might give their milk away for free, while others might want to sell it for some extra money. There’s no right or wrong way.
  • You can earn around $1 to $2 for each ounce of breast milk. Babies usually drink about 20 to 30 ounces each day, so this means you could make a good amount of money.

How To Sell Breast Milk

Is selling breast milk legal?

Selling breast milk is legal in most countries, such as in the United States.

However, you will want to check the rules in your area about selling bodily fluids as this will help you follow the law when you sell your breast milk. If you contact any of the milk banks listed below, they should be able to help you figure this out.

Is there a market for breast milk?

Yes, there is definitely a market for breast milk. Some new moms produce more milk than their babies need, and some moms struggle to produce enough.

By selling your extra milk, you can help parents who need milk, while making extra money. The demand for breast milk is mainly driven by mothers who struggle with low milk production or those who cannot produce milk at all.

But, there are other reasons why people buy breast milk as well, such as bodybuilders like breast milk because it’s high in fat and has a lot of calories.

You can decide who you want to sell your breast milk to. So, if anything makes you uncomfortable, simply state so.

Also, it is hard work pumping milk, so you will want to carefully think about the pros and cons to make sure it is worth it for you.

How much can you sell breast milk for?

If you have a large milk supply, you may be able to make a decent side income by selling your breast milk, and you may be able to earn around $1 to $2 per ounce.

I’ve read stories online where some people say that they earn $1,000 or even $2,000 a month selling their breast milk. While that’s most likely not the norm, as that would be a lot of extra milk supply that you have, you may still be able to earn at least some extra cash from the breast milk that you won’t be using.

6 Best Places To Sell Breast Milk

Below are the best places to sell breast milk to.

1. Only the Breast

Only the Breast is a popular site specifically for buying and selling breast milk. On this website, you can create breast milk listings and connect with possible buyers.

I browsed the site and they currently have over 3,000 listings for breast milk for sale. You can sell your breast milk in bulk for $0.25 to $0.50 per ounce, or not in bulk at $1.00 per ounce. You can also choose to sell your milk through a local listing on this site.

There were also several hundred listings on this site from people who were looking for specific breast milk to buy, which is a good sign that there are a lot of buyers out there!

With Only the Breast, you can also choose who you sell your breast milk to, such as only for babies and not for adults to drink.

2. Tiny Treasures Milk Bank

Tiny Treasures Milk Bank is a milk bank that pays $1.10 an ounce to healthy breastfeeding mothers for their time and effort. This company will give you the breast milk storage bags to put your milk into, but you will have to use your own pump.

This company works with Prolacta BioScience to make life-saving human milk-based nutritional products for ill and premature infants. They mostly sell their products to hospitals, but some are also used for research.

3. BreastfeedingMomsUnite

BreastfeedingMomsUnite is an online milk community and classified site covering all things related to breastfeeding, including the sale of breast milk.

You simply start by creating a milk ad with information about you and what you are selling. Once you have agreed on a deal with a parent, you then ship them your breast milk, usually on dry ice to make sure that it stays frozen.

4. Craigslist

Craigslist is a site where you can post an ad for selling pretty much anything, such as breast milk. While it is not the most specific site for this purpose, your listing can possibly reach a wide audience in your local area.

In your ad on Craigslist, you will want to include a picture of the milk you are selling, your price, and some information about you such as your medical history and drug use.

I did a quick search on Craigslist and found breast milk listings in several cities and the prices ranged from around $1.00 to $5.00 per ounce.

As always with Craigslist, be careful when dealing with potential buyers (make sure to meet in a public place) and you will want to make sure you have safe transactions.

5. Facebook groups

There are many Facebook groups that are dedicated to the buying and selling of breast milk.

You can search for groups in your area or country and join them to connect with potential buyers.

I hopped on Facebook and simply searched for “sell breast milk” in the search bar and a ton of Facebook groups popped up that I could join to sell breast milk. There are breast milk sale groups for different countries, different states, and even ones that are for a specific purpose (such as for sick babies or even bodybuilders).

Then, you will most likely post an ad for your breast milk, or see if there are any “wanted” listings that suit what you are trying to sell.

Donating breast milk

Donating breast milk can be a great way to help moms who are having trouble nursing or babies in need of human milk.

To donate breast milk, you may want to contact milk banks or organizations that handle milk donation such as the Human Milk Banking Association of North America (HMBANA). HMBANA is dedicated to making sure that all babies have access to human milk, either through breastfeeding or the use of pasteurized donor breast milk. Check out their website to find out more details on how to become a donor.

Another idea that you might also be interested in is donating your breast milk through informal milk sharing. La Leche League International mentions that some families practice cross-nursing or co-nursing, where babies receive human milk from people who are not their parents.

Before you donate your breast milk, you will need to make sure that it’s safe, and donated breast milk should be free from contamination to make sure the baby who is drinking the milk is safe. The American Academy of Pediatrics and the Food and Drug Administration recommend milk banks over online sites for this reason.

Here are a few tips for safe breast milk donation:

  • Always use sterile containers when you pump and store your breast milk.
  • Freeze your breast milk as soon as possible after pumping to preserve its quality.
  • Label your containers with the date of pumping to make it easier for donation centers to track and manage their inventory.
  • Make sure to follow the guidelines that the milk bank or donation group tells you (there’s usually a list that they will give you so that you know what to do and what not to do).

Things To Think About When Donating Or Selling Breast Milk

Here are some things to think about when selling breast milk.

Health and safety considerations

Before you sell your breast milk, you will, of course, want to make sure that it’s really clean and safe. So, this means you should get a good breast pump, keep everything clean, and store the milk in the correct temperatures at the right time.

Also, usually you cannot donate or sell breast milk if you are a smoker, if you have positive STD results, if you use medications, have tattoos, had a recent organ or tissue transplant, had a recent blood transfusion, and more. Milk banks typically want breast milk from healthy donor mothers.

You may have to take a blood test, get tested for things such as HIV, syphilis, or illegal drugs, and more before you can qualify to sell or donate breast milk. Some companies may require samples of breast milk as well before you get started.

Legal aspects

If you’re selling breast milk online, you should always be honest about yourself and your milk. You should share info about your health, what you eat, and how you live because it affects the milk’s quality and what a person may be looking for. This is SUPER important!

Challenges and risks

Selling breast milk can be a bit tricky as you have to find a place to sell it, usually on websites or social media groups. Sending it can be hard too, because it has to stay really cold so that it doesn’t melt and become spoiled.

Also, it takes a lot of time and effort to pump, which all moms know.

Personally, I pumped for over one year, and I found it to be very hard and time consuming. So, you will want to make sure that it is worth it for you.

If you remember these things and stay healthy and safe, selling your breast milk can be a good way to earn money and help babies who need it.

How To Increase Your Milk Supply

If you want to sell breast milk, you may be interested in knowing how to increase your supply. To help increase your milk supply, here are some tips.

Milkology course

Milkology is a site that has several breastfeeding and pumping resources. It is a resource for breastfeeding mothers who want to learn how to increase their milk supply.

I personally took this course when I was learning how to breastfeed and pump breast milk, and I thought it was very helpful (and affordable!).

These resources cover everything related to breastfeeding and nursing, including how to maintain a healthy breast milk supply which can be super helpful for those who want to sell breast milk.

To increase milk supply, here are some tips to get started:

  • Nurse frequently – Aim for at least 8 to 12 feedings a day, approximately every two to three hours. Eventually, you can lower it, but in the beginning this is very important.
  • Breast pump – You will want to use a breast pump to help with milk production without feeding a baby, especially if you plan to sell breast milk. A hands-free pump is also a lifesaver so that you can do things while pumping.
  • Relax – I know this is easier said than done, but relaxing can really help to increase your milk supply. So, you may want to watch some TV, read a book, or eat a snack while pumping.
  • Include lactation-supporting foods in your diet – This includes foods such as fenugreek, oatmeal or oat milk, fennel seeds, lean meat and poultry, and garlic.

By using these tips and taking the Milkology course, you may be able to increase your breast milk supply so that you can sell more breast milk.

Frequently Asked Questions About How To Sell Breast Milk

Below are answers to common questions about how to sell breast milk.

Who buys breast milk?

Some people who might buy your breast milk include moms who can’t make enough milk and parents who adopt babies. Some adults might also buy it for themselves too.

Is it wrong to sell breast milk instead of donating it?

I know how hard it is to pump and to find the time to do so. I believe that your time is worth something, so do not feel bad about selling your breast milk if that is what you want to do. Plus, I have talked to many moms who have said that they would gladly pay for breast milk when they need it, because they know how hard it is to do and how valuable a mother’s time is.

Is it ethical to sell breast milk to bodybuilders online?

Some bodybuilders drink donor breast milk because of the high protein, calories, and fat in it. The ethics of selling breast milk to bodybuilders is personal, and some believe it’s an acceptable and mutually beneficial arrangement as long as both parties consent (the mother and the bodybuilder that is), but other people may find it inappropriate. It’s really just a personal decision.

How to sell breast milk to bodybuilders?

To sell breast milk to bodybuilders, you can create a listing on breast milk classifieds sites and make sure your listing targets the bodybuilding community. You can also join specific forums or Facebook groups for bodybuilders and breastfeeding to connect with potential buyers. I did a quick search on Facebook and I found several Facebook groups that are all about selling breast milk to bodybuilders, so that is probably a good place to start if you are interested.

Where can I find milk banks near me?

To find milk banks near you, you can look for accredited milk banks through the Human Milk Banking Association of North America (HMBANA). They have a directory on their website with a list of approved banks in North America. Also, you can check for local milk banks or lactation support groups in your area.

Where to sell breast milk online?

To sell breast milk online, you can use websites like Only the Breast. They help people who want to buy and sell. You can also put up ads on regular websites or join Facebook groups for this.

How To Sell Breast Milk – Summary

I hope you enjoyed this article on how to sell breast milk.

Selling breast milk is such a hot topic. I understand that pumping breast milk can be tough and finding time for it can be a challenge. It’s important to remember that your time is valuable, so don’t feel guilty about selling instead of donating your breast milk, if that’s something you choose to do.

There are many places to sell breast milk to as well, so you can actually make extra money doing this.

Have you ever thought about selling breast milk? What do you think about selling breast milk?

Source: makingsenseofcents.com

Apache is functioning normally

Working out in an apartment is tricky. While some complexes have shared fitness centers, you may not always want to leave the house to do your fitness routine. And on the other hand, trying to have some form of a gym inside your apartment is difficult and limiting when you’re renting. However, there are still plenty of home gym decor ideas that will make your workout space both beautiful and functional — even in an apartment.

Here are some ideas you can incorporate into your home gym decor.

1. Dual-function loft

Photo source: Fitness Design Group

When you’ve got only one large space to work with rather than separate rooms, you may not want to dedicate it only to either a sitting room or a gym. Here, Fitness Design Group made sure there could be both by making a distinct separation between the function of each area.

2. Spin office

Photo source: Love to Know

There’s no need to choose between having a home gym or an office — put them in the same space! You can even create a small separation between the two like Love to Know shares — placing a mat underneath your office area and a separate one for your workout area divides the room based on function.

3. Work(out) from home

Due to the recent pandemic, many people are working (and working out) from home. Working from home brings its own set of challenges, but avoiding the gym doesn’t need to become a hassle. A little side gym, connected to a home office, creates a seamless transition from work to workout at any point in the day, making your home office a functional place before, during and after work.

4. Bright and airy home gym

Photo source: On Design Interiors

No matter the location or size of your home gym, there’s no reason for it to feel dark and dingy. These bright floors and light walls, brought to life by On Design Interiors, make this small space feel large and spacious. Not to mention how simple and chic the design is — it’s not over-the-top and creates a calming environment for exercising after a long, stressful day.

5. Mirrored weight room

This simple, yet effective, basement setup shows just what you can do in a small space. This weight room isn’t very big, but a full wall of mirrors gives the illusion that it’s double the size. Even if you’re in a studio apartment, simply adding a large mirror on the wall near where you practice yoga or do a small-space workout routine will help it feel bigger.

6. Home office with modern wall designs

Gyms don’t need to look boring, especially if it’s part of the place where you live. And it doesn’t take a lot to make your home gym look modern and appealing! Simple wall tiles or decals can quickly upgrade your gym without compromising its functionality. Even in a rental like an apartment, you can use peel-and-stick tiles and wall decor that can easily be removed without damaging the walls.

7. Jungle gym

Photo source: Devon Grace Interiors

Adults aren’t the only ones that need to get their exercise in! Kids living in an apartment may feel a little limited at times without a full private yard to play in, so Devon Grace Interiors added a place for the kids to get their energy out.

The light-colored wood of the jungle gym doesn’t draw too much attention and keeps things muted, while still being a fun place for kids to play.

8. Sleek modern luxury home gym

Making your home gym feel luxurious and modern is a simple matter of color and lighting. Adding a couple of backlit mirrors and incorporating metallics are what the Infinity Design Studio recommends.

9. Traditional CrossFit

Photo source: DNLUD

This home gym by DNLUD is about as close as you can get to a typical CrossFit gym. For some, feeling like they’re at a gym rather than at home helps them get their minds into their workout. The mirrors are black gym mat flooring really gives it an out-of-home feeling.

10. Modern rustic home gym

Photo source: Gambrick

Gambrick didn’t want to detract too much from the natural landscape and kept this in mind when they designed this gym for a modern rustic cabin-stile home in the mountains of Colorado. The deep oranges give just enough color while maintaining the integrity of the outdoors—no matter where you live, your apartment doesn’t have to feel separated from its surroundings.

11. DIY basement upgrade

There are easy ways that anyone can upgrade their basement into a functioning gym. A little peel-and-stick wallpaper, mirrors and foam puzzle flooring turned a dark basement into a bright little workout space that can easily be removed if needed.

12. Spare bedroom fitness renovation

An extra bedroom is already a luxury that not everyone has and instead of turning it into a seldom-used guest room, put it to better use. Light flooring and white walls with natural wood hanging hooks to keep equipment off the floor keep this room looking chic and clean—great for when you’re in a small apartment with not much room to spare.

13. Disguised cycle home gym

You may only need one piece of equipment to get a full-body workout in. A stationary bike is perfect for requiring only a small corner—and that corner might be right in your kitchen! One Instagrammer disguised her bike in her kitchen area by placing a pretty painting and plants around it to blend it into the area.

14. Space-saving yoga grid

When you don’t have room for a full yoga studio, a wall might be all you have. Higashi Fushimi recommends that it’s time to make your storage grid look good—like it’s an intentional part of your apartment’s design, with blended metal rods that both look good and function like any other storage.

15. Vertical storage in your home gym

Choosing equipment and storage racks that work vertically rather than horizontally can keep your gym equipment from taking up too much space in your apartment. Lela of Organized-ish utilizes pegboards for small equipment storage and choose a multi-function vertical workout setup that only takes up a few feet of space in the corner.

16. Aesthetically-pleasing home gym equipment

No need for your gym equipment existing as an eyesore. In fact, it is a beautiful addition to the main area of your apartment. See how Sunny Circle Studio chose wooden multi-use wall bars to provide function and design for a high-end vibe.

17. Upgraded garage

If you’re lucky enough to have access to a garage, you can turn it into a chic and stylish workout room. Celebrity trainer Erin Oprea has even done it herself — add some peel-and-stick wallpaper and affordable vinyl flooring that mimics wood, and you’ve pretty much given yourself a whole new space!

18. Dual-function, hidden equipment home gym

A coffee table that converts into a bench press, a lamp that doubles as a dumbbell and even a foam roller vase that looks and works both like exercise equipment and living room items. Swedish storage company 24Storage invented pieces of workout equipment that aren’t stored in the traditional manner — they’re functioning pieces of your living room! See what fits best in your living room.

19. Balcony home gym

Get some fresh air by exercising on your balcony. Put your bike, treadmill or other machines outside so it doesn’t take up your indoor space. See how Merrick’s Art did with their balcony.

20. Home yoga studio

Turn any open floor space into a yoga area. Keep storage baskets, like Manduka suggests, for your mat and other equipment nearby so when it’s not in use, you can keep your items out of the way.

21. Funky and fun home gym

Don’t just hide your home gym — turn it into the main attraction! Decorilla emphasizes that having fun patterns and colors can both give you energy and help you relax — which is what your workout space should do.

22. Black on black home gym

Having an all-black gym may not feel as light and airy as one with brighter colors, but it can change your mood when you workout. It may help you get more serious, which is beneficial when you’re doing a heavyweight routine or really want to push your limits — which is why Vogue highlights it in a luxury spread.

23. Walking desk as a home gym

Make your work time (and space) the same as your workout! MyMove shows that a treadmill or stationary bike that allows you to use your computer at the same time will save you both time and space as a home workout alternative.

24. Bright home gym yoga space

Use bright colors and neutrals for a calming yoga session. Stick with natural tones and materials, as LDA Architecture & Interiors recommends, and you’ll be feeling calm and serene every time you practice.

25. Neon home gym

Give your workout space an edge with neon lighting. You can either do it all around the room and frame certain pieces, such as mirrors, with neon lights. Or you can add a motivational quote in the form of a neon sign to keep yourself going!

Functional and tasteful

Your home gym doesn’t have to look run-down or ugly. And you don’t need to get rid of it altogether, either! Using these home gym decor ideas, you can create a space that’s both beautiful and functional.

Morgen Henderson is a writer who grew up in Utah. She lived in the Dominican Republic for a year and a half, where she was involved in humanitarian service. Some of Morgen’s work has appeared in State of Digital, The Next Scoop and TechPatio. In her free time, she loves to travel, bake, master DIY projects and improve her Spanish skills.

Source: rent.com

Apache is functioning normally

Are you looking for the best consignment stores near you and online? Consignment shops are great places to find really nice, secondhand things that cost much less than when they were brand new. You can find clothes, furniture, or valuable older items. These stores have a lot of good quality, used things just waiting for…

Are you looking for the best consignment stores near you and online?

Consignment shops are great places to find really nice, secondhand things that cost much less than when they were brand new. You can find clothes, furniture, or valuable older items. These stores have a lot of good quality, used things just waiting for someone to find them.

And, consignment shops can be a great place to sell your stuff too, and make some extra money.

I have personally worked at a secondhand shop when I was younger for several years – so I understand how great they are, especially when it comes to being able to make some extra money.

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This free workshop will teach you how to get into the flipping business. It will teach you how to resell furniture, electronics, appliances, and anything else you can find.

Key Takeaways on the best consignment shops

  • Consignment stores are a great way to sell your stuff for cash
  • There are many stores, both on the internet and in person, where you can sell your stuff
  • Some favorite places to sell clothes include Poshmark and Plato’s Closet. For jewelry, Worthy is a great site to sell on. Decluttr is super easy if you want to sell electronics, like a cell phone or a game system.

What Is A Consignment Store?

A consignment store is a retail store where you can buy and sell gently used items, such as clothing, jewelry, furniture, and more.

Why Sell At Consignment Shops?

Selling at consignment shops has many positives.

It’s a good way to clean up your closet or home in a way that’s good for the environment because you’re recycling and reusing things instead of just throwing them away.

You can also make some extra money from things you don’t use anymore. It’s also really easy because the consignment store takes care of everything, like deciding the price, advertising, and talking to customers.

What items do consignment stores accept?

Consignment stores accept many different kinds of items, such as:

  • Clothing: dresses, tops, pants, jackets, and shoes
  • Accessories: jewelry, bags, belts, and hats
  • Furniture: chairs, tables, sofas, and other household items
  • Toys, games, and collectibles

Recommended reading: 8 Items To Sell Around Your Home For Extra Money

What percentage do most consignment shops take?

The consignment shop usually takes a percentage of the selling price, which can be anywhere from 30% to 60%.

So, if your item sells for $50, you might get between $20 to $35, and the store keeps the rest. This fee helps the store pay for things like rent, utilities, advertising, and paying their employees. When you sell your items through a consignment shop, they do almost all the work for you, which saves you a lot of time and effort.

Many of the stores below will pay you up front for your items, and some will pay you after the item sells. I do realize that traditionally a consignment shop is one that pays you AFTER the item sells, but I didn’t want to limit this blog post to just that – as getting paid up front is, of course, quite nice.

Recommended reading: How I Made $40,000 In One Year Flipping Items

Best Consignment Stores Online To Sell Your Stuff

Below are the best consignment stores online to sell at.

1. Poshmark

Poshmark is an app and website that has a marketplace for gently used clothing, shoes, bags, and jewelry. You just take a photo, list your item, and make extra money.

Recommended reading: 20 Best Places to Sell Shoes Online And Near You

2. Decluttr

Decluttr is a great place if you want to sell old electronics like phones, tablets, and gaming systems.

Decluttr gives you a free shipping label. Just pack your items in a box and send them to Decluttr. They take care of the shipping costs, so it’s easy for sellers.

Recommended reading: 11 Best Ways To Sell Used DVDs Online And Locally

3. thredUP

ThredUP is an online store that sells clothes and accessories for women and kids. All you have to do is ask for a Clean Out Kit, send in your items, and thredUP takes care of everything else.

4. Facebook Marketplace

Using Facebook Marketplace is an easy way to sell things to people located near you. It makes it easy to find buyers for items like furniture, appliances, and clothes.

5. Worthy

Worthy sells wedding rings, loose diamonds, earrings, necklaces, bracelets, and luxury watches. Their team handles everything from appraisals to receiving payment from the buyer.

You simply just send in your jewelry to them using a prepaid and insured FedEx label they provide. When they receive it, your item is then put up for auction where professional jewelry buyers can bid on it (you can choose a minimum price you’re comfortable with). Once the auction ends, you’ll get the final sale amount after Worthy takes their fee.

The whole process usually takes about 2 weeks from sending the ring to getting paid.

You can sell your jewelry on Worthy by clicking here.

Recommended reading: How To Sell An Engagement Ring For The Most Money

6. eBay

eBay is a popular selling site that has been around for a long time and is used all over the world. You can sell pretty much anything and everything, from clothes to special collectibles.

I have sold many items on eBay over the years, mainly clothing. But, I know people who have sold anything from collectible toys all the way to classic cars on eBay successfully.

7. The RealReal

The RealReal is a high-end consignment online store that sells luxury items, such as designer clothing, shoes, and jewelry. You can earn up to 85% of the selling price for your items.

8. Mercari

Mercari is an online marketplace where you can sell clothing, electronics, and collectibles, and it is a really popular choice with over 350,000 listings posted every day!

Listing your item is easy – just upload photos, pick a category, set your price, and you’re all set. Mercari takes a 10% commission fee.

9. Chairish

Chairish is a site where you can sell your furniture and home decor and they charge a commission based on how many things you list.

They also have a program called Chairish Drop Off & Go. You can print a shipping label provided by Chairish, then drop off your item at a nearby UPS Store when it sells. You don’t even need to pack it – UPS will take care of that for you.

Recommended reading: 15 Best Places To Sell Used Furniture For Cash

10. Grailed

Grailed is a marketplace for men’s clothing, and they mainly sell high end and streetwear brands. You can post any item for free and if an item sells, Grailed charges a commission fee of 9%.

11. Craigslist

Craigslist is a great way to sell items to people near you, and you can quickly list items like furniture, appliances, and clothing without paying any fees. I have sold many items on Craigslist over the years, such as tires, clothes, and even a Jeep hardtop (these show that anything can be sold on Craigslist!).

12. Depop

Depop is an app for shopping and geared toward younger customers. You can sell all sorts of things, like clothes.

13. GOAT

GOAT is a site where you can sell high-end sneakers. The commission fee is 9.5% plus a seller fee for a seller in good standing.

14. Vestiaire Collective (formerly known as Tradesy)

Vestiaire Collective is a website where you can sell designer clothes, handbags, and accessories for women. They make it really simple to list your items, and brands that they sell include Louis Vuitton, Gucci, Chanel, Prada, Hermes, and more.

15. Kidizen

Kidizen is a site for selling and buying kids’ clothes. If you have children’s clothing that you’d like to sell, this is a great place to start if you want to sell online.

16. Rebag

Rebag is an online consignment store that sells high-end designer handbags as well as shoes, watches, apparel, and other accessories. They buy items and pay up front.

Best Consignment Shops Near You To Sell Your Stuff

Here are some of the best local consignment stores for you to check out.

17. Plato’s Closet

Plato’s Closet is a popular store that sells trendy, gently used clothing and accessories for teens and young adults. Plato’s Closet is also one of the most popular consignment shops that pay cash up front too.

I personally worked at Plato’s Closet when I was younger for around 5 years, so I have both bought and sold items and paid cash up front. I have probably sold thousands of dollars of clothes to Plato’s Closet over the years!

18. Buffalo Exchange

Buffalo Exchange is a popular chain of secondhand stores in the U.S. where you can both buy and sell lots of different types of clothes and accessories. You get 25% of their selling price in cash or 50% in store credit for anything they’re able to buy.

19. Crossroads Trading

Crossroads Trading sells clothing, shoes, and accessories at their brick-and-mortar shops in California. They pay cash up front or you can choose to get a little more in trade-in credit.

20. Wasteland

Wasteland is a high-end clothing shop that sells new, gently used, and vintage women’s and men’s designer clothing. They pay cash up front of 30% of what they price the item at in their store.

21. Uptown Cheapskate

Uptown Cheapskate is another great store for selling clothing and accessories.

22. Once Upon A Child

Once Upon A Child sells gently used children’s clothing, toys, and equipment (such as strollers). They don’t typically pay a ton, but they also price things relatively low.

23. Music Go Round

Music Go Round is a great place for musicians to buy and sell used musical instruments and gear. Due to the typical higher price of musical items, they usually pay with a check.

24. Play It Again Sports

Play It Again Sports sells sporting goods. From team sports (such as baseball and football) to fitness equipment (like weights and even treadmills), you can trade in your stuff at Play It Again Sports.

25. Guitar Center

Guitar Center buys used musical instruments, such as guitars, amps, drums, keyboards, and more.

26. Awoke Vintage

Awoke Vintage sells vintage clothing items at their in-person secondhand shop as well as on their Instagram. If you have vintage items to sell, this is a great place to start with.

27. Beacon’s Closet

Beacon’s Closet is a New York store where you can sell clothing and accessories. You can sell items by bringing it to their store or mailing it to them. They pay 30% cash or 50% store credit of what they price the item at whether you sell it to them by mail or in person.

How To Find Local Consignment Shops Near You

There are many more local consignment shops other than just the list above. Here are some easy ways to find the best consignment shops near you:

  • Search online – The easiest way is to search on Google, Yelp, or on your phone’s map using words like “consignment shops near me” or “local consignment stores.” There are probably several near you that you may not know about.
  • Ask your friends – Ask your friends, family members, or coworkers for advice on local consignment shops they’ve had good experiences with.

Remember, when selling at local consignment shops, you should check their policies on what items they take and the process for buying or selling. You’ll also want to see when they look through items, as some may not purchase items on Saturdays or in the evenings, for example.

Recommended reading: Everything You Need To Know About Selling Your Stuff For Cash

Frequently Asked Questions

Below are answers to common questions about how to find the best consignment stores to sell at.

Is selling to a consignment shop worth it?

Selling to a consignment shop can be worth it if you have items that are in good condition and if you’re looking for an easy way to make extra money.

What are the best consignment stores for clothes?

The best consignment stores for clothes depend on what you’re looking for. For example, if you want to sell your clothes quickly and get cash up front, then Plato’s Closet is one of the easiest. If you’re looking to make a little more money, then selling your clothes online on Poshmark or eBay may earn you a little more, but these types of sites do require a little more work from you (such as taking pictures and actually shipping the clothing items).

What should I know before selling to a consignment shop?

Before selling your items to a consignment shop, you should know their rules. This includes finding out how long they’ll keep your items (will they try to sell the item for a month? A year?), how much of the sale price they’ll take, and when you’ll get paid (do you have to chase them for payment?).

What’s the difference between consignment shops and thrift stores?

The main difference is in how items are obtained. Thrift stores sell items that they receive from donations, while consignment shops buy items for resale (not through donations).

How can I maximize my earnings from consignment sales?

If you want to make the most money from consignment sales, pick a store that’s known for selling the kind of things you have and is popular with buyers (this helps because they probably sell items a little quicker!).

The Best Consignment Shops Near You And Online – Summary

I hope you enjoyed this article on how to find the best consignment shops online and near you.

The shops mentioned above are known for being easy and trustworthy when selling your items. They have an easy process and a way to get cash either up front or after the item sells.

Pick the consignment shop that suits you best and start making money from your stuff.

What’s your favorite consignment shop to sell at?

Source: makingsenseofcents.com

Apache is functioning normally

Combined into a series of federal, state and local laws, your specific renter’s rights get dictated by where you live. They’re in place to prevent things like housing discrimination and rent gouging. These basic rights ensure you have a safe, clean place to live as well as detailed courses of action when things are going wrong.

Landlord-tenant law helps you live peacefully in your rental. Do you know your tenant’s rights?

Fair housing

Before even taking a tour of a potential apartment, it’s your right to have fair access to housing. This means your rental application will not get rejected based on:

  • Race
  • Color
  • Religion
  • Age
  • Sex
  • National origin
  • Family status
  • Mental or physical disabilities

Your renter’s rights in this case receive protection at the federal level by the Fair Housing Act. State and local laws may reinforce the Fair Housing Act and even add more categories to this list to ensure everyone has equal access to apply for housing.

Not only can your rental application not get refused based on these factors, but, if you have a disability, landlord-tenant law requires they make reasonable accommodations for you to access the apartment. This could mean installing ramps or making a unit on a lower floor available.

Legal documentation

Another piece to your renter’s rights is the lease. It’s the responsibility of the property manager to give you a legal rental contract to sign that abides by all laws.

In addition to specifics about the property, and breakdowns for processes like requesting repairs, using common areas and more, a lease must clearly indicate the leasing period and your monthly rent. It should also have your name, and any roommates, on the document.

The lease should also include a series of general disclosures. The law requires these, although it varies by state which specific ones must get listed. A few common disclosures you may see in your lease if they’re applicable to the rental unit, include:

  • Notice of mold
  • Lead-based paint disclosure
  • Notice of sex offenders, recent deaths and any potential health or safety hazards

Living space

A variety of rules govern your living space when you’re a renter. This ensures you have somewhere to live that’s actually livable. Tenants’ rights, when it comes to your actual apartment get pretty involved, so make sure you know the highlights.

Habitable housing

It’s not enough for a property manager to provide you with an apartment; the apartment must be safe for you to live in it. This means more than a lack of dangerous conditions. Your renter’s rights entitle you to a home with usable utilities, including heat, electricity and water.

This area of your renter’s rights also means you have a home that’s safe and livable in other ways. Specifics within these guidelines require an apartment to have functioning locks on doors and windows, smoke detectors and a dedicated way to escape in case of fire.

Repairs

This area of landlord-tenant law requires action on both sides. To ensure you have a habitable home, it’s up to you to report any maintenance issues using the process that’s outlined in your lease. Find out the best way to report issues like this to your landlord (such as through email or an online portal).

On the management side, their responsibility is to complete repairs in a timely manner. Your lease will define what this means, but different repairs rank higher in priority. For example, failure to repair a heater in winter can quickly lead to an uninhabitable living space for safety reasons, whereas a garbage broken disposal doesn’t create that serious of an impact.

If your property manager fails to make repairs in a timely manner, you have additional rights. Check with state and local laws about what’s within your rights.

Privacy

Although you’re only renting a home, and someone else owns it, your rights as a tenant mean a certain level of privacy. Once your rental agreement is in place, a property manager cannot come into your home without proper notice.

Notice is also required for more than just repairs. If you’re getting ready to move, and the property manager wants to start showing your unit to prospective tenants, for example, they must give you notice each time.

Security deposit refund

Each state usually handles security deposits differently as far as how much you’re required to put down. It’s normal for you to pay a security deposit though since that protects the property manager from having to pay out-of-pocket for any damages you may cause while living in your rental.

As far a payment goes, some states set caps on how much a property manager can ask for. They also can’t impose a higher deposit for your rental, when compared to other units in the building, without a specific reason, like having a pet.

It’s also within your renter’s rights to get the security deposit back, in a timely manner, if it’s not covering any damages. Most state laws set the time frame at 30 days, and you’ll not only receive your security deposit back but any interest that accrued as well.

If any of your deposit is withheld, you can ask for written documentation of the damages it’s paying for, and the property manager must comply.

Eviction

The situations where your property manager has the right to evict needs clear stating within your lease. Make sure to review them before you sign it.

Standard landlord-tenant law states that you can get evicted if you break your lease in specific ways, such as:

  • Failing to pay rent
  • Allowing prohibited animals to live with you
  • Having roommates that aren’t on your lease
  • Committing a crime on the premises

As a renter, your tenant rights enable you to address evictable issues within a specified time frame before an eviction can take place. You will receive notice of a pending eviction from your property manager. If you fail to fix the issue, they can then file an eviction with the courts resulting in legal removal from your rental.

State-specific renter’s rights

Although you’ll find many standard regulations associated with renting if you move between states, expect additional laws everywhere you go. Since renter’s rights get regulated on both the state and local level, if you’re relocating to a different part of the country — familiarize yourself with local tenant laws.

Some unique landlord-tenant laws include:

  • In Hawaii, security deposits with no deductions must get returned within 14 days
  • A property manager must give 48 hours notice before entering your apartment in Delaware
  • West Virginia has no minimum notice required for a rent increase on month-to-month rentals
  • In North Carolina, two month’s rent is the required minimum for a security deposit on a one-year lease
  • A lease can get terminated once rent is only five days late in Arkansas

As you can see, some states have pretty extreme rules. Being aware of them can help you maintain a positive relationship with your property manager while also protecting your own rights as a renter.

Know your renter’s rights

No matter how great, or rocky, your relationship is with a property manager, you should always follow the law as it pertains to your situation. This not only protects you, but it ensures your property manager gets held accountable when anything isn’t up to par.

Familiarize yourself with state and local landlord-tenant laws, read your lease thoroughly before signing and do your research when faced with a potential issue. Protect yourself by knowing your tenant’s rights.

The information contained in this article is for educational purposes only and does not, and is not intended to, constitute legal or financial advice. Readers are encouraged to seek professional legal or financial advice as they may deem it necessary.

Lesly Gregory has over 15 years of marketing experience, ranging from community management to blogging to creating marketing collateral for a variety of industries. A graduate of Boston University, Lesly holds a B.S. in Journalism. She currently lives in Atlanta with her husband, two young children, three cats and assorted fish.

Source: rent.com