Our Rachuba family – and our Family Foundation – are committed to making the world around us a better place to call home. With today being National Food Bank Day, we encourage you to support one of these local food banks and non-profits working to feed our Frederick-area neighbors.
This quarter The Rachuba Family Foundation is donating to Helping Up Mission , an organization that helps men & women fighting addiction and homelessness get their lives back. Helping Up Mission not only provides housing and food, but also housing, education, and mental health & addiction support. Donations of canned goods, fresh fruits, vegetables, and other food items can be made by contacting Brian Vincer, Food Services Coordinator at (410) 675-7500 ext. 1113 or by email at [email protected] . Donation drop-offs are also available in Reisterstown, Cockeysville, Lutherville-Timonium, and downtown Baltimore. Learn more about all the ways to support Helping Up Mission here .
The Frederick Community Action Agency (FCAA) also operates a food bank located at 14 E. All Saints Street. 600-800 households are served each month by the food bank. Volunteers are needed to assist with sorting, restocking, data entry, and light maintenance work. If you’re interested in volunteering, please contact Sarah McAleavy, Coordinator of Food & Nutrition Services, (301) 600-6263. Donations of non-perishable food items as well as blankets, baby food, select clothing, and hygiene supplies can be delivered to the Frederick Community Action Agency Foodbank at 14 East All Saints Street.
The Bread of Life Kitchen serves breakfast from 7am-8am daily, lunch from 12pm-12:30 Monday-Saturday, and lunch on Sundays from 1pm-2pm. Although much of their food donations are made by local businesses, restaurants, and the Maryland Food Bank , these resources are used up very quickly and individual donations are also needed. Donations ca be made at the Frederick Rescue Mission located at 419 West South Street, Monday-Friday 8am-5pm.
We’d love to see how our Prospect Hall family is giving back. Be sure to share with us any donations you’re making today with us on social media by tagging us with #prospecthallgivesback.
When the harsh chill of winter fades into a mild spring, it’s time to turn your home upside down with some good old-fashioned spring cleaning. While people don’t exactly hibernate, we tend to hunker down and accumulate a bit of a mess over the colder months. So, once the warmer weather finally arrives, we use that as a golden opportunity to shake things up and get our homes back into proper working order for the year ahead.
If you’ve ever attempted spring cleaning before, you know that cleaning an entire home from top to bottom is easier said than done. If you want to get your apartment in tip-top shape this season, you’re going to need a good spring cleaning checklist.
Your Complete Spring Cleaning Checklist
Before you get to work, keep in mind that spring cleaning is a marathon – not a spring. There’s a reason many cultures set aside an entire week for this particular tradition. So, try to break up your cleaning spree by tasks or by room so you don’t get overwhelmed. And remember, there’s no harm in asking for help if you need it!
With all of that said, here is a comprehensive, step-by-step guide to help you conquer your winter cobwebs.
1. Get Organized
The less stuff you have, the fewer things you need to clean. Before you get down on all fours and start scrubbing your floors, you need to take some time to get yourself and your home organized.
Start by getting rid of any junk or clutter. You don’t want or need anymore by selling, donating, or tossing it. Once you’ve freed your home of all the extra stuff, carefully reorganize your closets, cabinets, drawers, etc. to fit everything you kept.
2. Empty Your Cabinets and Drawers
Cabinets and drawers are not immune to dust, dirt, and spills. And spring cleaning is the perfect opportunity to show these storage spaces a little much-needed TLC. Start by emptying all of your cabinets and drawers. Then remove any loose dust, crumbs, or dirt with the hose attachment of your vacuum. After the dust is gone, wipe down the insides with a damp cloth to clean up any stains or spills. Finally, take some time to wipe off everything that belongs in that drawer or cabinet to get rid of any dust before putting it all away.
3. Take Care of Your Appliances
Our kitchen appliances accumulate a lot of residue over the year. So, as part of your spring cleaning, make sure you take the time to clean your oven, refrigerator, dishwasher, laundry machines, and any other appliances you may have in your home.
4. Polish Up Your Plumbing
While you may not want to do it, you're going to have to wipe down your toilet — and your shower, your bathtub, and your sink too! When it comes time to give your bathroom a solid once over, remember to wear rubber gloves and ventilate the room if you plan on using a cleaner that includes bleach.
5. Dust Everything
Of all of the spring cleaning tips you're going to get this year, this one is probably the most basic. No matter what steps you take to prevent it, dust will always find its way into your home. And spring cleaning is the perfect time to tear your apartment apart to shake off all the dust that's accumulated over the past few months.
While you're busy dust-busting, don't forget to dust off all your light fixtures, the chords behind your TV, your blinds, and the back of your refrigerator. Dust everything means dust everything!
6. Clean from Floor to Ceiling
You've probably noticed scuffs, stains, and dust on your molding, but did you know dust and grime can accumulate on your walls too?
It may sound like one of the more extreme spring cleaning hacks out there. But, dusting and wiping down your walls and baseboards can help cut down on the amount of dust and fine particles circulating in the air — which could help with your allergies!
7. Wipe Down Your Windows and Doors
Your doors and windows take a lot of abuse both inside and out all year long. Spring cleaning is the perfect time to thank them for all of their hard work by cleaning them up a bit.
When cleaning your windows, don't forget to wipe down the screens to remove any dirt or mold.
8. Wash All. Your Linens
Finally, one of the best spring cleaning tips out there may seem a little unnecessary, but it will make your entire home feel and smell a lot fresher.
Washing rugs, curtains, and throw pillow covers is pretty standard spring cleaning practice. But, to achieve total "spring cleaning" clean, you might want to consider emptying your linen closet and giving everything inside a pass through your washing machine. Over time, stored fabrics can pick up a musty smell. A quick wash is all you need to stamp out the stench and leave your linens smelling fresh and clean.
9. Vacuum and Clean Carpets and Upholstery
While you can throw a lot of fabric in your washing machine, you can't put everything in there. And, unfortunately, while a vacuum can work wonders on carpeting and upholstery, it can't do everything.
You could hire someone to come in and clean your carpets for you. But, if you're up to the challenge, you can easily rent a carpet steamer from many grocery and home improvement stores that will get the job done just as well.
Cleaning upholstery, however, can be a bit trickier. If you plan on using an upholstery cleaner on your furniture, remember to test it first on a small, hard-to-see spot to make sure you don't accidentally wind up with a tie-dye couch.
Are You Ready to Welcome Spring?
Are you looking for a new place to call home? Check out the pricing and availability of our spacious apartments, schedule a tour to see them for yourself, or contact us for more information today!
At over 100 million, the number of people renting in the US is around 1/3 of the population. With so many renters out there, it’s no surprise that they bring different needs to their apartment searches. Of course, some things prove more universal than others.
For example, everyone wants to ensure the apartment they choose will offer enough space . Another highly sought after feature are washer and dryers within apartments. Some communities offer in-home laundry, while others offer in-home hookups. Not sure which is best? Keep reading for our overview.
Installation
One key factor to keep in mind when deciding between an in-home washer & dryer vs. bringing your own is the installation. In fact, installation is one of the major drawbacks of bringing your own washer & dryer. Transporting the machines from your old home or coordinating delivery if purchasing new machines is a pretty big undertaking.
While getting a washer & dryer into a first-floor apartment may be a manageable task, it becomes substantially more difficult if you live on the second or third floor. Dragging a washer and dryer up several flights of stairs is no picnic, even if everything goes wells. Unfortunately, moving a washer and dryer up the stairs also leaves you more susceptible to injury and the machines open to damage.
With in-home laundry, the installation of your washer and dryer has already been completed by the management company or landlord. By the time you move in, the washer and dryer are already installed and ready to go.
Maintenance
A lot of things can go wrong with a washer or dryer. Heating elements can start to go bad, or a part may need to be replaced in your washing machine.
If you bring your own machines, all repairs are your responsibility. If you happen to be very DIY proficient, this may not be an issue. However, if the problem is something that cannot easily be fixed, you’ll need to find an appliance repair technician to come fix the machine, which may end up being costly. If the machines must be replaced, you’ll be responsible for that as well.
However, if your apartment comes equipped with a washer & dryer, the landlord or management company will most likely be responsible for fixing the problem. This can ease some of the stress if something does go wrong with your washer or dryer.
Model Selection
If you’re moving into an apartment with a washer/dryer hookup, you’ll have the flexibility of choosing your own machines. You can choose a machine that meets your needs and easily upgrade to washer or dryer that has all the latest bells and whistles. You an also select your own models based on water or energy consumption, potentially lowering your utility bills.
Units found in apartments or rentals that come with washers and dryers may not be the most technologically advanced, however, they typically meet the needs of most people and provide a degree of energy and water savings. Although some rentals may have older units that should be upgraded, most property managers and landlords ensure their equipment works well and is up to current standards before issuing it to a new resident. Be sure to ask about features of the laundry in an apartment before making a decision.
Simplicity
Those new to renting often lack experience with buying appliances. First-time renters are often overwhelmed with the decisions involved with selecting an apartment and moving in. Renting an apartment that comes with a washer and dryer simplifies your moving process, giving you more opportunity to focus on selecting the perfect new home and getting settled in quickly.
Which is Right for You? In-Unit Washer & Dryer or Hookups?
Some apartment will offer in-unit washers and dryers and others will offer hookups. Picking the right option for you takes some consideration. Weighing the cost and hassles of bringing your own equipment against the models being offered by the landlord should be done. Only you can decide whether the additional work is worth it to select a machine tailored to your needs or if the convenience of having machines supplied outweighs all else.
Looking for an apartment in Frederick, MD with a washer & dryer? Prospect Hall Apartments offers in-home laundry in each of our floorplans. Contact us today for availability information or to schedule a tour.
Whether it’s for work, school, or for a change of scenery, moving is a big part of the US culture. In the pre-pandemic year of 2019 , 10.1% of Americans or 32 million people moved.
Thanks to the internet, it’s easier for many to find apartments online today. For first-time movers or online apartment hunters, the process can be daunting. In the guide below, we’ll help you out with choosing the right apartment online.
Know Your Budget and Needs
Before you get on your computer and find an apartment online, know your needs. A good way to discover what you need is to put everything on a list. Consider everything that you deem essential and non-essential in your apartment bunt. This list may include features like:
Parking
In-Home Laundry
Pet-Friendly Communities
High-Speed Internet
Swimming Pools
On-Site Fitness Centers
Proximity to Transportation and Other Amenities
Also consider design elements within your apartment that you’d like to see. Does that include lots of natural light and large windows, upgraded finishes like granite countertops, or open-concept floorplans? List these items as well for consideration when deciding between various communities or floorplans.
Set a Timeframe on Your Online Apartment Search
Always be sure to budget enough time to look for an apartment before you need to move. Ideally, start your search 1-2 months in advance of your expected move-in date. This will allow you to get more accurate pricing and availability when inquiring with apartment communities. If you live in a more populated or in-demand area, begin your search earlier so you have enough time to snag the apartment of your dreams.
Prepare the Necessary Documents and Run a Credit Check
Some landlords will ask for documents from you to use for background check, credit check, or income verification. Some commonly requested documents include:
A letter of employment
Your last 2 pay stubs
Tax returns if you’re self-employed
Reference letters
Some companies may run a credit check on potential residents. Gather each of these documents ahead of time so you’re prepared and ensure your credit report looks great and address any issues before applying for apartments.
Head to annualcreditreport.com to receive a free credit report each year from the major credit bureaus.
Use Online Resources to Find an Apartment Online
Check different sites and use various apps to find an apartment that best meets your preferences and needs. Start with reputable sites such as:
Zillow
Hotpads
Apartments.com
Apartment Guide
Apartment List
Zumper
Also conduct a Google search for apartments in the area you’re looking for. Check individual community websites and reviews to get a better feel of the community and culture. Check out Google Maps and the locations of each community to get an overview of what the nearby amenities are.
While Craigslist is a good site to use for apartment hunting, you’ll need to be wary of scammers there. Be extra critical when you consider offerings listed on Craigslist.
Keep A List, Then Narrow Your Search
Keep a list of the communities that interest you and that have availability within your move-in date. After completing a first-round list, take a small break, then revisit the communities on your list to start “shortlisting” apartments. Cross of any that don’t meet your needs or budget.
Take a Virtual Tour
Once you have your apartment shortlist created, start taking some virtual tours. Today, most apartment owners have a website where you can see inside the apartments . Others have mapping and touring tools that allow guests to take virtual tours by Zoom call or other methods.
Focus on the layout of each apartment, as well as where each of your must-have features are located. Try to visualize your furniture in that apartment.
Talk to the Leasing Team
After the virtual tour, you’ll probably still have some questions to ask about the apartment. If you do, the next step in learning about the community and specific floorplan you’re interested in is to speak with the leasing team.
Call the leasing office (or landlord if it’s a private owner) and get a feel not just for the community, but for the staff you’ll be frequently communicating with. Be sure you’re comfortable with the staff there before making a decision to move in.
Check Online Reviews
Look online at Google Reviews or those on ApartmentRatings.com to get an idea about what the current and past residents think of the community. Be sure to read through them and see what the biggest benefits and/or issues are on site. No community is 100% perfect, however, the response to reviews and issues will signal that the management truly cares about their residents.
Inspect and Sign the Lease
Before you sign anything, make sure you read through the entire lease agreement and as any questions you may have. Be sure to note important sections such as rent due dates, security deposit amounts and conditions, and rules and regulations within the community.
Are you looking for an apartment in Frederick, Maryland? We may have the right floorplans, pricing, and amenities for you. If you have any questions about our apartments, our team is more than happy to help you out. Contact us today !
Twice annually, Satisfacts research publishes its list of top multifamily property management companies throughout the United States. This list is compiled using their proprietary epiQ score, which is designed to effectively determine how well “management companies are able to attract, retain, and satisfy residents throughout the entire renter lifecycle.” (Satisfacts, 2021) We are pleased to announce that Rachuba has received an A+ score and made the top 5 list for management companies with 1-9 communities .
You can view analytics of management companies listed on ApartmentRatings.com, including a breakdown of renter ratings, management engagement, and reply times to see how effectively companies interact with residents online as well as what residents are saying.
Additionally, both Piney Ridge Apartments in Eldersburg, MD and Prospect Hall Apartments in Frederick, MD have made the Top 250 Apartment Communities Nationwide list for December 2020.
For additional information about the epiQ Index, visit https://www.satisfacts.com/epiq-index/ . To learn more about Rachuba’s property management services and how we can help your community make this list, visit https://www.rachuba.com/property-management.html .
With the endless list of responsibilities that surrounds us in our lives, it’s hard to not feel overwhelmed sometimes. Whether it’s work, extracurriculars, or even loved ones, there is always something to do or someone to go see. However, it’s important for everyone to take time for themselves and have a little self-care session. This can help reduce anxiety and benefit your overall mental health. Taking care of yourself is critical to your happiness and it begins with having space in your home where you can do this. Here are our best tips for creating the best self-care area in your apartment.
Assess Your Needs
The first step in creating your self-care area in your apartment is determining which needs are most important to you. Perhaps you are looking to make a small meditation corner or a spot in your bedroom where you do a DIY spa experience once a week. Depending on what your needs are will change what your self-care area is. Regardless of where you choose to put your area, it should be a space where you can slow down, relax, and have your moments of self-care.
Get Organized
The next step is organizing your future self-care area. Decluttering the area and putting items away or in a different place in your home will make it even more relaxing. It will have the sole purpose of being the self-care area. A good rule of thumb to follow to continuously keep it organized is that every item has its place . If the item is not in its place, it should be put there.
Set It Up
Setting up your self-care area will depend on what your needs are. If you choose to go the meditation route, a yoga mat and a small bamboo plant may be the items you want. If it is DIY spa , a basket to put facemasks and other cosmetic products may be a better idea for you. Candles with calming scents such as lavender or jasmine could be beneficial for any area, just make sure to never leave them unattended and always blow them out. If you are not looking to spend too much money as well, dimming lights and putting on relaxing music can change the whole mood of a space.
Schedule Time for Self Care
It is one thing to create your self-care area to relax. It is another thing to actually use the area. However, you also do not want to use the space as a place to procrastinate either. To balance these priorities out, set aside a certain amount of time each week or each day to use the area and escape from the world around you. By creating and using your self-care space area, it can help reduce anxiety and give you time to separate yourself from the stresses of life.
