Lilly Milman

What is Mixed-Use Development? The Definition, Pros, and Cons for Renters

Lilly Milman

Mar 27, 2024

If a walkable neighborhood, where everything and everyone is within reach, is your dream living situation, then read on — because you may be a good candidate for living in a mixed-use building. In this guide, we explain what exactly they are, what the benefits are, and what the drawbacks are.

Where to Get the Most Space for Your Rent Money in New York

Lilly Milman

Mar 19, 2024

We get it: Most New Yorkers didn’t choose to live in the city because of all the extra space it affords them. But what if you could move one neighborhood over and get more space for the same (or even less!) rent money? Using our neighborhood rent data, we calculated where in New York you could get the most space for your rent money.

Is This a Scam? How to Spot a Fake Apartment Listing

Lilly Milman

Mar 13, 2024

Spotting the perfect apartment listing after hours of scrolling other units that are out of price range or don’t meet your standards is exhilarating — but what if it’s too good to be true? In this guide, we outline how to spot a potentially fake apartment listing.

Don’t Forget to Spring Clean These 5 Spots in Your Apartment

Lilly Milman

Mar 11, 2024

You may already have decluttering your closet or cleaning out your pantry on your spring cleaning checklist, but don’t forget to also clean these easy-to-miss spots in your apartment. Read on for our lesser known spring cleaning tips.

Every Kind of Apartment Layout, Explained

Lilly Milman

Mar 05, 2024

Need help deciphering an apartment unit listing? Check out this guide of every type of apartment layout.

Why Am I Not Hearing Back from Apartment Inquiries?

Lilly Milman

Mar 01, 2024

We’ve all been there: You’re scrolling through a ton of apartment listings, submitting your information on dozens of apartments, and hearing… crickets. It’s frustrating to be left wondering why your apartment inquiries aren’t getting answered — especially in cases where it’s totally out of your control. However, there are a few best practices you can follow to try to increase your success rate. (Template included!)

What is the Best Way to Pack Plants for a Move?

Lilly Milman

Feb 26, 2024

Plants are perhaps the most delicate cargo that you’ll pack into a car or a moving truck when it’s time to move to another apartment — so how do you ensure that they don’t get damaged along the way? We spoke with John Selletto, owner of the gift and plant store Petali Flowers in Cambridge, MA, to get his expert moving tips for taking indoor plants to their new home.

What is Pre-War Architecture? The Definition, Pros, and Cons

Lilly Milman

Feb 19, 2024

In this article, we’ll go over what pre-war architecture is and its history, how it differs from post-war architecture, what the pros and cons are of living in a pre-war apartment, and tips for how you can find or identify a pre-war apartment.

The Most Competitive Rental Markets (Q4 2023)

Lilly Milman

Feb 08, 2024

We calculated the most competitive rental markets in the U.S. right now, using our rental data as well as the Q4 2023 vacancy rates released by the U.S. Census Bureau. The Syracuse, NY metro area came out on top.

Tenants Complaining About Noise? Here's How to Soundproof

Lilly Milman

Feb 01, 2024

Are your renters complaining about their noisy neighbors? It may be time to tackle the issue; otherwise, you risk losing tenants — or even worse, breaking the law. Luckily, there are a few easy fixes to dampen the decibel level and keep everyone happy.

Be My Valentine… And My Roommate? Here’s How Much You Can Save By Moving In Together.

Lilly Milman

Jan 31, 2024

Whoever said distance makes the heart grow fonder clearly never heard of rent splitting. And while cost savings alone may not be the best reason to move in with your significant other, it’s certainly an added bonus when you can save upwards of $15,000 each per year in cities like New York or San Francisco.

What is a Railroad Apartment? The Definition, Pros, and Cons

Lilly Milman

Jan 29, 2024

All aboard! In this article, we’re covering everything you need to know about railroad apartments, from how to define them, to their history, to their pros and cons.

My Neighbor’s Dog Keeps Barking. What Should I Do?

Lilly Milman

Jan 23, 2024

While many of us can agree that we love dogs, it can be frustrating when a neighbor’s pet barks all night when you’re trying to sleep or throughout the day when you are trying to work or study. In this guide, we walk you through a few steps you can take to get your peace and quiet back.

What is the Best Way to Pack Books for a Move?

Lilly Milman

Jan 19, 2024

Any big reader knows that one of the worst parts of moving is packing and transporting a book collection to a new home — so we asked Peter Win, owner of Brookline Booksmith, for his moving tips for book lovers.

This Is the Most Expensive City for Renters in Each State

Lilly Milman

Jan 03, 2024

We analyzed our rental data to find out the most expensive city for renters in every state — and the results may surprise you. Do you see your city on the list?

Is Winter the Best Time to Negotiate Rent?

Lilly Milman

Dec 23, 2023

Winter may not be the most convenient time to start an apartment hunt — between the poor weather, early sunsets, and busy holiday schedules — but it may be the most cost effective. To aid you in your winter apartment search, we outline signs that a landlord is likely to come down on rent price during a negotiation and give tips on how to negotiate successfully.

How to Moth-Proof Your Apartment Closet & Save Your Sweaters

Lilly Milman

Dec 20, 2023

If you pulled out your favorite sweaters this winter and found they were covered in holes, then you may unfortunately have a moth infestation on your hands. In this guide, we cover how to identify a moth problem, what to do if you discover a moth problem, how to moth-proof your closet, and how to treat and protect your clothes from moths.

Boston Rent Report: What Are the Hottest Neighborhoods in Boston?

Lilly Milman

Dec 18, 2023

This ApartmentAdvisor report provides an overview of where costs have increased the most across the city of Boston and where renters are most likely to get more space for their money.

How to Protect Your Apartment’s Floors in the Winter

Lilly Milman

Dec 14, 2023

When it’s cold, wet, and snowy outside, the last thing you want to do is bring any of the mess inside. Unfortunately, tracking in some of the salt that keeps your sidewalk clear of ice and snow is inevitable — and salt can wreak havoc on your apartment’s floors. In this guide, we walk you through how to clean and protect your apartment floors as a renter in the winter.

Do I Need to Shovel Snow as a Renter?

Lilly Milman

Nov 30, 2023

The thought of even a few snowflakes falling may leave you feeling dread. After all, traffic gets backed up, cars parked on the street need to be dug out of snow piles, and shoveling is no easy task — which begs the question: As a renter, do you need to shovel snow? In this guide, we tell you everything you need to know about your responsibilities as a renter when it snows.

The Best Way to Store Bulky Clothes in a Small Closet

Lilly Milman

Nov 28, 2023

Closet clutter can build up quickly — so what do you do if you have a small closet but a sizable sweater collection? We spoke with professional organizers to learn their closet organization hacks for storing bulky clothes in small apartments.

Can I Run a Business from My Apartment?

Lilly Milman

Nov 20, 2023

There are two main steps to finding out the legality of running a business from a rented apartment. We outline them in this guide, as well as other factors to keep in mind before you start your business, with expert insight from a lawyer.

4 Hacks for Hosting Thanksgiving in Your Apartment

Lilly Milman

Nov 10, 2023

Having people over when you live in a small space isn’t always easy — and the idea of hosting a Friendsgiving or Thanksgiving dinner for the first time when you don’t have a dining room can feel downright impossible. That's why we turned to the pros to learn how they host holiday gatherings in their small spaces.

Rent-to-Own Leases: Everything You Need to Know

Lilly Milman

Nov 08, 2023

One common complaint about renting is that the renter is throwing money away; rather than building home equity through a mortgage payment, the renter is paying a similar amount (or in some cases, even more per month) for a home that is only temporary. Rent-to-own leases can ease some of the financial burden of buying a home and make rent payments feel more fruitful, but they aren't for everyone. Here's why.

Guide to Finding an Apartment in the US as an International Renter

Lilly Milman

Nov 02, 2023

An international move is daunting — especially if it is your first time living away from home. Read our step-by-step guide on apartment hunting in the US as an international renter, based on our expertise.

How to Lower Your Apartment’s Heating Bill

Lilly Milman

Oct 31, 2023

The winter can be stressful because — depending on where you live, heating bills can be an astronomical expense. You don’t need to worry, though, because there are plenty of ways to reduce heating costs without breaking the bank. We have low-cost tips to help you get ready to keep the cold out and your utility costs low this year.

How This Expert Cares for His Houseplants in the Winter

Lilly Milman

Oct 27, 2023

As the first frost approaches, it’s crucial that you bring your houseplants inside. Not only that, but you also need to adjust your plant care to make up for the colder weather and shorter days that come with this time of year. We spoke with Alex Kantor, president of Perfect Plants Nursery, to learn more about the best houseplant care for the colder months ahead. 

What Can I Fit in My Space? Understanding Apartment Square Footage

Lilly Milman

Oct 25, 2023

We spoke with Artem Kropovinsky, an interior designer based in New York City, to learn more about his rules for decorating a range of apartment sizes — from 400 square foot studios to 1,000-plus square foot two- and three-bedroom apartments.

Why Do Renters Hate Carpets So Much?

Lilly Milman

Oct 23, 2023

Picture this: You walk into the perfect apartment, with natural light, new appliances, large bedrooms, and lots of storage space. Then you look down and see carpet. Does your heart drop? If you said yes, you aren’t alone. We spoke with renters, real estate professionals, and interior designers to find out exactly why people hate carpets so much — and to find tips for how to embrace them.

Small Appliances You Need in a Kitchenette — According to a Professional Pastry Chef

Lilly Milman

Oct 19, 2023

We asked professional pastry chef and recipe developer Emily Laurae Carter for her advice on must-have small kitchen appliances based on her experience, on making downsizing decisions for her apartment kitchen, and on storage solutions.

6 Renter-Friendly Apartment Upgrades You Didn't Know Existed

Lilly Milman

Oct 11, 2023

From removable wallpaper to plug-in sconces and lighting solutions that only take a few screws to install, renter-friendly interior design has come a long way. Now, you can totally switch up the look and feel of your apartment — without losing your security deposit. 

What Pets are Really Included in a “No Pets” Policy?

Lilly Milman

Oct 03, 2023

It’s always smart to be transparent with your potential landlord about whether or not you will be bringing a pet to your new living space — a best practice that most dog and cat owners will already be familiar with. But what if you have another kind of pet — like a bird, rabbit, ferret, or even a fish? Do you need to disclose that you will be living with a pet other than a dog or cat? We spoke to property owners and managers and other industry professionals to find out what their no pets policies include, and why.

The 10 Cheapest Walkable Cities in the U.S.

Lilly Milman

Sep 29, 2023

In a 2023 survey conducted by the National Association of Realtors, 79% of respondents rated walkability as “very” or “somewhat” important to them and many respondents stated that they'd be willing to pay more to live in a more walkable area. However, it’s not always necessary to make that trade off. We found the most affordable walkable cities in the U.S.

Our Favorite Free Personal Finance and Budgeting Apps for Renters

Lilly Milman

Sep 27, 2023

Balancing rent, bills, transportation costs, household purchases, and an entertainment budget can be tricky — especially if you have roommates who you share costs with or it’s your first year living out on your own. If you are struggling to set spending limits and feel like your paycheck somehow disappears as soon as it hits your bank account, worry not. We found a few of the best free budgeting apps that make smarter spending and saving easier.

Apartment Parking: Everything You Need to Know

Lilly Milman

Sep 25, 2023

When you have a car, moving to an apartment with parking is nonnegotiable. However, not all parking spaces are created equal. Depending on what type of building and what area you are living in, you’ll be presented with different options — ranging from assigned, covered spaces to free street parking. In this article, we go through the most common types of parking options that you’ll see and their pros and cons.

10 Renter-Friendly Tips for Decorating Your Apartment for Fall

Lilly Milman

Sep 19, 2023

We spoke with Diana Hathaway, color expert and interior designer, to get her best apartment decorating tips for renters who want to redecorate in the fall — without breaking the bank (or going overboard on mini pumpkins).

Quiz: Where Should I Live in Boston?

Lilly Milman

Sep 16, 2023

We developed our Boston neighborhood quiz to help you determine which neighborhood you’d like living in most — based on a combination of our knowledge of the city, our rental data, U.S. Census data, and more. It’s free, requires no sign-up, and takes less than 5 minutes.

How to Save Money as a Renter Throughout the Year

Lilly Milman

Sep 13, 2023

If you’re feeling like your finances have been spread thin in the first few months after moving into a new apartment, you’re not alone. The good news is, though, that there are a few tried and true methods for saving money as a renter throughout the year. We give you a money-saving goal for each season and go through all of our favorite money-saving tips.

What is an In-Law Apartment?: The Definition, Pros, and Cons

Lilly Milman

Sep 11, 2023

What differentiates in-law apartments from most other apartments is that they are additions built onto existing homes — with their own entrance, bathroom, and kitchen — and they are often smaller than a typical rental unit. In this article, we cover what an in-law apartment is, what the legal requirements are around renting an in-law apartment, and the pros and the cons of in-law units for tenants.

Apartment Furniture Rentals: Everything You Need to Know

Lilly Milman

Sep 05, 2023

While furniture rental has long used in the real estate world for staging homes on the market, it has become a more and more common solution for renters. We answer all of your questions about apartment furniture rentals and share some of our favorite furniture rental companies.

How Much Space Can I Afford to Rent with My Salary?

Lilly Milman

Aug 28, 2023

We’ve made it easy to calculate how much rent you can afford to pay each month using our rent calculator (which helps you consider monthly income, as well as recurring bills like credit card and student loan payments and other monthly expenses). Now, we’re seeking to help you answer the question: How much space can I get with that number?

What is a Month-to-Month Lease?

Lilly Milman

Aug 22, 2023

If you’re looking for a short-term rental, you may be more interested in a month-to-month lease, which would give you greater flexibility in terms of your move-out date than a 12-month lease. In this article, we break down what exactly a month-to-month lease is, how it works, and to know if it’s the right option for you.

Brownstone Apartment: The Definition, The Pros, & The Cons

Lilly Milman

Aug 18, 2023

These historic buildings are known for their stone stoops, ornate window boxes and details, and faded brown, red, or tan brick facades. They’re also known for their hefty price tags. In this article, we cover everything you need to know about brownstones as a renter — from the official definition to the history to the pros and cons and more.

The Best Housewarming Gifts for Any Apartment Renter

Lilly Milman

Aug 14, 2023

If you just got invited to a housewarming party and don’t want to be the guest who brings another boring bottle of wine, read on. We rounded up our favorite, unique housewarming gifts ideas that renters will actually want and use on a regular basis.

What is a Security Deposit? — Everything You Need to Know

Lilly Milman

Aug 10, 2023

In this article, we cover everything you need to know about a security deposit. We’ll answer questions like: What is a security deposit? How much is the typical security deposit? And what charges can a landlord deduct from a security deposit?

Apartment Lease Takeovers: What Are They and How Do They Work?

Lilly Milman

Aug 04, 2023

So, you signed a one-year lease on a place — and now, whether it’s because of a change in work, finances, or lifestyle, you need to move out. What should you do? If you want to avoid breaking a lease, you have a few options — like transferring your lease to a new tenant via a lease takeover. In this guide, we answer all your questions about lease takeovers, how they work, and how you execute them correctly.

City Spotlight: Best Rooftop Bars in Boston

Lilly Milman

Aug 01, 2023

With a mix of classic, ornate buildings and modern skyscrapers appearing on either side of the iconic Charles River, the Greater Boston skyline is one of a kind — and what better way is there to enjoy it than while sipping on a cocktail at a rooftop bar?

How to Maximize Space in Your Studio Apartment: Tips from an Interior Designer

Lilly Milman

Jul 31, 2023

Have big design dreams in a small apartment? We want to help you make those a reality. We spoke to Lauren Werkiser, VP of Interior Design & Architecture at Morgan Properties, to get her tips for marrying function and stylish design in a studio, regardless of size or floor plan.

Just Saw a Mouse in Your Apartment? Here’s What to Do

Lilly Milman

Jul 27, 2023

If a mouse just scurried across your kitchen floor, resist the urge to jump on a table. The task may seem daunting, but it is more than possible to get rid of mice in your apartment. In this guide, we cover how to identify mice in your apartment, how to get rid of mice and avoid rodent problems in the future, and more.

Best Summer Cities 2023

Lilly Milman

Jul 11, 2023

Put down your car keys, log off that travel website, and listen up: We figured out where the best U.S. cities to live in the summer are based off proximity to nature and recreational activities, weather, affordability, and more.

How Much Would It Cost to Upgrade from a Studio to a One-Bedroom Apartment?

Lilly Milman

Jul 07, 2023

If you are currently living in a studio apartment and want to upgrade to a one-bedroom unit, we outline how much more you can expect to spend in your city.

5 Things to Do the Day You Move into a New Apartment

Lilly Milman

Jul 05, 2023

Congratulations! You’re moved into your new home and ready to start a new adventure. But if you’re surrounded by cardboard moving boxes and feeling overwhelmed, worry not. We’ve created a guide on what to do on the first day that you move into a new apartment.

How to Find an Apartment in Boston

Lilly Milman

Jul 03, 2023

Boston is one of the most competitive rental markets in the country, partially because it’s one of America’s biggest college towns. Each year, renters compete with an influx of tens of thousands of college and university students for housing — creating a rental market unlike any other in the U.S. In this guide, we dive into everything you need to know for finding an apartment in Boston — from your initial search to your signed lease.

What is a Broker Fee?

Lilly Milman

Jun 29, 2023

If you’re renting in a competitive rental market for the first time, you may be surprised to find out that you’re on the hook for a little more cash than you expected upon signing the lease. That’s right — in a few cities, like Boston and New York City, you are expected to pay the real estate broker that you worked with during your apartment hunt a fee.

How to Clean Your Apartment Before Moving Out

Lilly Milman

Jun 23, 2023

When you decide to move out of your apartment and sign a lease for a new place, it’s easy to fall into the “out of sight, out of mind” mentality about your current unit. But if you’re thinking “who cares?” about the mess in your soon-to-be former apartment, the answer is your landlord. And if you care about getting your security deposit back, it’s in your best interest to care, too. 

LGBTQ+ History: A Brief History of Gayborhoods in the U.S.

Lilly Milman

Jun 21, 2023

San Francisco’s Castro District, Philadelphia’s Gayborhood, and Chicago’s Northalsted district (formerly known as Boystown) are each adorned with rainbow crosswalks, flags, and signs. But these cities weren’t always so proud of the history being made there. Called “gayborhoods,” these areas have evolved greatly over the 20th and 21st centuries — from neighborhoods where LGBT+ individuals were forced to self-segregate to proud parts of a city’s history and culture.

Best Cities for Renters Right Now: Here’s Where Renters Will Have The Easiest Time Finding A Perfect Place

Lilly Milman

Jun 15, 2023

Where are the markets that present the best opportunities for renters right now? To find the best opportunity rental markets in the U.S., we analyzed 71 of the largest metropolitan areas in the country, creating an Opportunity Score for each metro area based on two factors: rental opportunity and economic opportunity.

Your Top Affordable Housing Questions, Answered

Lilly Milman

Jun 13, 2023

In this guide, we break down what affordable housing is, what your options are for affordable housing, how to find out if you qualify for affordable housing, how to find affordable housing in your area, and more.

Imani Keal Would Rather Rent

Lilly Milman

Jun 07, 2023

Imani Keal, better known as Imani At Home, talks about reaching viral success for her rental transformation videos, being a long-term renter, and starting her design journey over in a new apartment.

Finding a Roommate? Take This Roommate Compatibility Quiz

Lilly Milman

Jun 05, 2023

Thinking of moving in with someone? Take our roommate compatibility quiz, designed to help you figure out what kind of roommate you are and what kind you would best live with, and send the quiz to your potential roomie, too.

How to Cat-Proof Your Apartment

Lilly Milman

May 26, 2023

Cats can be mischievous and — if you don’t cat-proof your apartment — can make a mess of your home quickly. We spoke to a few cat experts to learn about what you can do to keep your apartment clean, your cat out of trouble, and your sanity intact.