The Key

What is Maximalism? A History and Renter-Friendly Design Tips

Claire Nicholas

Jan 11, 2024

Maximalist decor is that larger-than-life interior design style that makes aesthetic sense despite toeing the line of chaos. And after centuries of ebb and flow in American households — plus a cultural shift brought on by the pandemic — it’s back in style. We explore why, and give you tips for achieving a maximalist look in your apartment.

5 Mess- and Smell-Free Recipes for Apartment Kitchens

Erin Tarectecan

Jan 05, 2024

I spent years working in restaurants, where I learned that there are plenty of ways to combat unwanted cooking smells. So, I'm here to share my hacks for preventing cooking odors and five of my favorite smell-free, mess-free recipes.

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.

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.

Our Favorite Holiday Apartment Transformations

Claire Nicholas

Dec 08, 2023

Decorating is the best way to get into the holiday spirit, whether you're looking to create a cozy and classic Christmas scene in your apartment or a maximalist "Pinkmas" display. We spoke with two content creators who go all out on their holiday decor to learn more about how they accomplish their apartment transformations.

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.

The Art of Bonsai for Apartment Dwellers

Rachel Craft

Nov 22, 2023

While bonsai are trickier to grow and maintain than many houseplants, with a few tips, even apartment dwellers can get in on this ancient art form. We spoke with two bonsai artists who share their tips for making bonsai gardens in their 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.

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.

These Superfans Decorated Their Apartments in Honor of Their Idols

Delia Harrington

Oct 17, 2023

Many of us had bedrooms like this growing up, but some fans continue to celebrate their favorite musicians in their apartments as adults, finding creative ways to elevate their fandom so it can grow with them. We spoke to superfans of Taylor Swift, BTS, and Beyonce to learn more about their apartment decor.

One Professional's Tips for Decluttering When You’re Downsizing

Julia Williamson

Oct 13, 2023

As a professional decluttering consultant, I’ve spent plenty of time with clients sorting through their possessions. If you’re moving from a spacious house or apartment into a new space that’s smaller, you’re probably going to have to let go of some possessions. These five decluttering tips will help make those downsizing decisions a little easier.

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. 

Our Favorite Halloween Decor Transformations

Claire Nicholas

Oct 05, 2023

Halloween decorating doesn't have to be scary — and it doesn't need to involve plastic pumpkins and monsters, either. We spoke with two interior decorators to learn more about their Halloween decor transformations, and get tips to help you with yours.

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.

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.

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.

How to Take a Home Office Tax Deduction if You Rent

Rachel Craft

Sep 07, 2023

More and more people are working from home, but not all of them realize they can take a home office tax deduction — even if they rent. How do you know if you qualify for this deduction, and what do you have to do to take advantage of it?

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.

Why This Teacher Created a Cool Down Corner in Her Apartment

Brianna Robles

Aug 30, 2023

As a teacher, I created a calm down area in my classroom where students could take a time-out if they became overwhelmed in their learning environment. My therapist suggested I do the same thing — in my apartment. So, I created a “cool down” corner — based on the spaces that I have curated in my classrooms.

DIY Tutorial: How to Create a Decorative TV Cover in a Small Space

Mary Kay McBrayer

Aug 24, 2023

When I moved in with my husband, he brought his massive, 70-something inch flat screen TV. When it’s turned off, it's an eyesore. So, I set out to make a framed piece of artwork that could be lifted or lowered to reveal or cover the TV, like a soft-closing toy box lid.

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.

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.

Create Your Own Barbie Dreamhouse With These Renter-Friendly Design Ideas

Jennifer Stavros

Jul 21, 2023

Barbiecore — the vibrant and unapologetic style associated with the titular doll — has blown up since Greta Gerwig started filming her live-action 'Barbie' film. We spoke with interior designers to get some DIY home decor tips on embracing your inner Barbiecore and creating your own renter-friendly Dreamhouse — right in your apartment.

9 Places to Find Discounted Furniture

Kaitlin Stevens

Jul 19, 2023

If you don’t want to sacrifice stylish interior design for affordability, we’re here to help. Here are nine websites and furniture stores to check out that will give you the home decor of your dreams without maxing out your credit card.

Tips for Dealing with Common Issues in Older Apartments

Matthew Robare

Jul 17, 2023

Some older apartments have charm, others have exciting histories, and, unfortunately, many have problems and require lots of upkeep. In this guide, we cover common problems that you may encounter in an older apartment building — as well as how to deal with them.

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. 

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.

Our 3 Favorite Renter-Friendly Apartment Transformations

Lilly Milman

May 22, 2023

As a renter, you may feel stuck with your rental apartment’s overall look and feel. We spoke to three renters who couldn’t disagree more. They share all their hacks for transforming their rentals — from peel-and-stick removable wallpaper to changing light fixtures — while keeping their security deposits intact.

How to Get Your Apartment Porch or Balcony Ready for Patio Season

Lilly Milman

May 10, 2023

We spoke to two interior design experts — both of whom often work with renters in small spaces — to get their takes on how you can elevate your outdoor area without breaking the bank or losing your security deposit.

How to Cool Down Your Apartment — Without AC

Lilly Milman

May 08, 2023

Cooling your apartment doesn’t have to be expensive. If you are suffering from a heat wave and don’t have air conditioning in your apartment, then consider a few low-cost, free, or DIY hacks to keep the temperature down.

TikTok’s Best Estate Sale Finds and Tips For Finding Great Pieces Yourself

Mary Kay McBrayer

May 02, 2023

As the timeworn saying goes, what’s old is new again, and a younger generation is starting to embrace estate sales. But this time, they’re sharing their finds online — sometimes to hundreds of thousands of followers. We asked the TikTok experts about their favorite finds.

Dog-Proofing Your Apartment & Other Tips for Renting with Dogs

Lilly Milman

Apr 18, 2023

Thinking of bringing a new puppy home or moving you and your dog to a new apartment? You may need to do some pet-proofing. We spoke with dog owners and experts to get their tips for keeping your dog stimulated, keeping them safe, and keeping your apartment clean.

Apartment Gardening: Tips and Tricks for Gardening Indoors

Lilly Milman

Apr 06, 2023

Gardening season has started — and just because you’re in an apartment doesn’t mean you can’t join in on the fun. If you have any amount of outdoor space, then you can use it to your advantage and start a balcony garden or plant some window boxes. But even if you don’t, there are lots of benefits to growing plants indoors — and we compiled some garden ideas to get you excited about getting started.

Spring Cleaning Guide From a Professional Organizer

Lilly Milman

Mar 27, 2023

With a few simple tips, you can keep your apartment a little cleaner, reduce clutter-induced anxiety, and make staying neat a part of your existing cleaning routine — and now is the perfect time to start. We spoke with professional organizer Sarah Dunn of Ready Set Organize to create a four-step guide that will change the way you organize.

Throwing the Perfect Apartment Dinner Party with Pearl Banjurtrungkajorn

Lilly Milman

Mar 23, 2023

We sat down with Pearl Banjurtrungkajorn, cofounder of the boutique supper club Her Name Is Nala, to plan the perfect dinner party. Follow along, and if you’re feeling inspired, use this guide to recreate the spring garden party of your dreams — right from your apartment.

Think Your Apartment Has Mold? Here’s What to Do

Lilly Milman

Mar 21, 2023

Not only is mold a pain to get rid of, but it can also be a health hazard. Read our guide on how to identify mold in your apartment, how to determine the severity of the issue, how to clean mold and avoid it coming back in the future, and more.

4 Renter-Friendly Design Projects to Let the Light in this Spring

Lilly Milman

Mar 14, 2023

We spoke with interior designers Artem Kropovinsky of Arsight and Mary Flo Ouellette and Steven Santosuosso of Squarehouse Studios to get some of their best decor ideas and tips for quick, easy, and affordable ways to bring some excitement into your apartment and rid your space of winter blues.

Space-Saving Hacks: Our Favorite Convertible Furniture

Lilly Milman

Mar 07, 2023

Convertible furniture, which are pieces that serve multiple purposes or can be stored in compact spaces when not in use, can make a huge difference when you’re trying to turn a small apartment into a functional and space-efficient home.

How Much Would You Need to Earn to Live in These Famous TV Apartments?

Lilly Milman

Feb 23, 2023

The famed apartments we’ve come to love on TV often don’t quite line up with the salaries of our favorite TV characters. We’re here to break down what it would cost to live in the apartments from your favorite TV shows today — and how much you would need to earn per year to comfortably afford rent.

Our 5 Favorite Influencers for Small Space Designs

Lilly Milman

Feb 15, 2023

Your apartment should be a reflection of you—regardless of the square footage. We rounded up our favorite small space design influencers to help you on your interior design journey, whether you are looking to reduce all clutter and embrace a minimalist lifestyle or go maximalist and design to the fullest.

Why Does My Apartment Smell and What to Do About It?

Smelly apartment? This article is full of easy household hacks to rid your place of common apartment smells.

How to Soundproof a Room in an Apartment — Decorate It

Filling your apartment with sound-absorbing items is a great place to start when it comes to apartment soundproofing. Learn how to decorate your way to a quieter apartment.

Moving In Together: A Guide for Couples

ApartmentAdvisor Editorial Team

Feb 06, 2022

This Moving In Together guide includes top tips for couples that are considering living together.

Storage Ideas for Small Apartments

Looking for storage hacks to make your place feel more spacious? We've rounded up our favorite storage ideas for small apartments. Let the decluttering begin.