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Choosing Off-Campus Over On-Campus Living

duncan.shea@appfolio.com (Appfolio Websites) — Mon, 26 Apr 2021 05:00:00 GMT

There are pros and cons to living off-campus during your time away at college. With everything else going on in your life during this time, it can be hard to figure out which choice is best for you. Of course, there are plenty of things to consider, so let’s walk through some of the biggest items on your list:

Apartments Offer More Personal Space than Dorms

While a dorm room can offer some space, you’re typically sharing that space with at least one roommate. In an apartment, depending on your budget, you may be able to live alone or split rent with a roommate (or roommates). Regardless, you could enjoy your own bedroom and much more living space. This means you’d have more privacy, leading to less time spent at coffee shops and libraries, and more time focusing on homework in a more comfortable environment.

More Freedom than a Dorm

Life in a dorm comes with a long list of rules, codes of conduct, and resident advisors. While this is helpful at first—especially when you’re new to dorm living and college life—you may find that it’s not as welcome in your sophomore, junior, and/or senior year. When you’re living in a dorm, you may have a curfew. There’s no curfew when you live in an apartment. That can be helpful, especially if you’re working while going to school, and are coming home later in the evening. You may find that freedom to come and go as you please is enough of a reason to leave dorm life and start enjoying off-campus living.

Choose Your Roommates

If you’re a student at Iowa State University, you’re familiar with the saying, “Choose Your Adventure.” When you live off-campus in your own apartment, you can choose your own roommate. Again, dorm life is great when it comes to meeting new people and getting you used to college living. However, once you’ve established yourself at school and start making friends, it’s nice to be able to live with people you know and like.

Understand Adult Responsibilities

Think of living in a dorm as your adult training wheels and an off-campus apartment as the moment you really start to grow up. Living off-campus can help you become more responsible by necessity. You’ll need to learn how to manage your budget in order to pay your rent, buy groceries, pay utilities, and everything else you need (and want). Learning how to manage expenses is a major part of adulthood and being able to learn it while still at school can be hugely beneficial.

Stop Paying for Residence Hall Permits

By living off-campus, you could save money in parking permits. Because you won’t be taking up a parking spot on campus, you won’t have to pay for a campus parking permit. Any amount of money you can save (especially while in school) is welcome!

Year-Round Living in Ames

Usually, when you live in a dorm, you have to vacate during breaks. That’s fine if you have somewhere to go and don’t have to work in town. If you don’t want to have to go home during each break and/or you have a job that doesn’t allow for a bunch of trips home, that adds more stress than you need. When you live in your own apartment, you’re able to stay there year-round. This makes for fewer interruptions in your day-to-day life and can help reduce anxiety leading up to breaks. It’s also nice to be able to decorate your space a little more permanently and know that you don’t have to pack everything up every few months. Plus, if you decide to stay in town after graduation, you have the option of keeping your apartment while you begin your post-college life.

Live Close to the Iowa State Campus

One of the biggest bonuses of dorm living is the proximity to campus. It’s nice to be able to roll out of bed and walk to class (especially with those early morning classes). If you still want to be able to do that, look for apartments within walking distance of your classes. You may actually find you’d like to be a bit more removed from campus, however, and that’s perfectly valid, too. If that’s the case and you have your own vehicle, this is always an option. No vehicle? An apartment close to CyRide may be your best bet.

Moving Into a Hunziker Apartment

There’s plenty to consider when thinking about moving off-campus. Talk to friends who have made the decision, take a look at off-campus housing near Iowa State University , and weigh your options. If you have any questions about how we can help make the transition from on-campus to off-campus living, feel free to contact us !

Spring Cleaning Your Ames Apartment

duncan.shea@appfolio.com (Appfolio Websites) — Tue, 30 Mar 2021 19:23:33 GMT

Daylight savings time came and went, and spring has arrived. Find a day or two this spring and take the time to clean your apartment. Follow our tips for a successful spring cleaning session.

Clean Windows and Walls

Windows

Combine dishwashing detergent, vinegar, and water into a spray bottle. For optimal results, use a squeegee. A lint free cloth will also work if you don’t have a squeegee. Spray the solution onto the full window. Wipe away any residue left on the windows. Fold over your cloth as you go to keep from moving dirt around the windows. Wipe down the window with a clean cloth from top to bottom. Don’t forget to clean drips from the window sill after you’re done cleaning.

Walls

Washing walls is the perfect springtime chore when you are able to open windows to assist the drying process. To begin, be sure to dust off your walls and baseboards, if necessary. You can do this with a Swiffer, broom, or dust rag. Next, grab a bucket of warm water and fill it with soap. You can use a washcloth or sponge to scrub down your walls. You can also use a magic eraser to help with removing dirt or skid marks. Be sure to crack a few windows to help walls dry faster and create airflow throughout the room.

Dust the Entire Apartment

Use a microfiber cloth and pour a little water on the cloth to make it damp. Dust all furniture in your apartment. You can also use Pledge or furniture polish when you are finished. Don’t forget to dust ceiling fans, window casings, and floor boards. Always start from the top and work toward the bottom of the room. When you are finished you can vacuum the dust that falls on the floors.

Change Bedding

If you have winter or flannel sheets on your bed, spring cleaning can be the best time to get out that summer, lighter set of sheets. Be sure to wash both your winter and summer sets of sheets!

Deep Clean Your Bathrooms

Disinfect your shower, toilet, and sink thoroughly. You don’t want to know how many germs live here!

Shower

Put white vinegar in a plastic grocery bag and tie it in place to your shower head for it to soak overnight. Remove it in the morning, and rinse by running the water.

If you have a shower curtain and liner, wash it in the washing machine with a couple of towels. Simply rehang it to dry. If your shower has a shower door, consider combining a few drops of distilled white vinegar into a cup of baking soda and apply directly to the door. It should have the consistency of paste so it will stick to the door. Let it soak for about an hour, and then scrub with a microfiber cloth. Be sure to rinse and dry with a clean microfiber towel.

Clean the tub or shower with an all-purpose or bathroom cleaner. Let it sit for about 20 minutes and then scrub clean!

Toilet

Use toilet cleaner around the inside of the bowl and use a toilet brush to scrub any residue on the inside of the toilet. Use an all-purpose spray on the outside of the toilet to clean any dust or dirt.

Sink

Use an all-purpose disinfectant cleaner to spray down the vanity area including the sink, faucets, and countertops; then wipe with a clean cloth.

Organize Your Closet

First off, take all clothes out of your closet and place them in an empty space. Separate your clothes by season. Start sorting through seasons one by one and place clothes into keep, maybe, and donate piles. In order to decide on your maybe pile, ask yourself a few questions:

Have I worn this recently?
Does it fit?
Is it in good condition?

Once you have decided on what stays and what goes, you can organize your closet by season, by clothing type, or by how often you wear certain clothes.

Spring Cleaning Could Help with Move Out Tasks

You’ll need to clean your apartment when you move out, so why not get a head start on it by deep cleaning it this spring! Have any good cleaning tips? Feel free to share them with us!

How to Find An Apartment Near Iowa State University

duncan.shea@appfolio.com (Appfolio Websites) — Tue, 16 Feb 2021 20:11:16 GMT

One of the biggest decisions you will make in college is where you will live, after all, this is where you will spend most of your time! There are apartment listings all over your social media, and Apartments For Rent signs everywhere you drive. How will you know if you’ve chosen the right one? Follow our tips below to guide you to your perfect home!

What to Consider When Looking for An Apartment Near Iowa State Campus

What security features does the building have? Is the door limited access?
Is parking included, or will that cost extra? Where can your guests park?
Where is the closest laundry facility? How much will it cost?
What utilities are included? Finding an apartment with most of the utilities included will really help your budget!
Is it within walking distance to campus or will you need some kind of transportation? Where is the closest CyRide stop?

During Your Apartment Tour

Are you touring the exact unit you are interested in living in?
Look for the internet and cable jacks to plan where you will put your furniture!
Are there noisy neighbors or pets? (Hint: living on the top floor guarantees you won’t have noise above you!)
What are the next steps in leasing the apartment?

Our Apartments Near Iowa State Campus

Most of our apartments near Iowa State University are in secured buildings, meaning a code or key is required to unlock the building door!
All of our Campus apartments have free reserved parking! Don’t waste time searching for a close parking spot on those chilly winter days. Guests can utilize our designated visitor parking spaces.
Included in the rent with our apartments is heat, water, gas, cable or DirecTV, 150 mbps internet, water, trash, snow removal, and lawn care. All you have to pay for is electricity!
With hundreds of units within a block of Iowa State University campus, it’s only a short trek to class! But, if you prefer to hop on CyRide, there are multiple stops just right out your front door.

Check out Hunziker's apartments within a block of campus HERE !

Make sure you ask the leasing specialist any other questions you may have while you are there. Wishing you the best of luck in your apartment search!

LOOKING FOR THE PERFECT APARTMENT NEAR IOWA STATE?

Call your Hunziker Team at (515) 233-4440 and ask about our available options! Here at Hunziker Property Management, we offer over 1,100 units all around Ames! With hundreds of units within one block of Iowa State University Campus, and apartments ranging from efficiency to luxury style, no matter what type of apartment you are looking for, We’ve Got You Covered!

Top Tips for Working From Home

duncan.shea@appfolio.com (Appfolio Websites) — Mon, 25 Jan 2021 15:19:58 GMT

Ideally, working from home means you have a designated office. However, as quarantine is creeping on, this isn’t the case for many people. Add some certainty to these uncertain times by making the most of your time and space. Take a look at our top tips for working from home!

1. Claim your space

make sure to find a comfy chair near electric outlets with a flat surface to make your own. Tell your roommates, spouse, partner, and/or kids that the space is important to you as a work area, and ask that they try to help maintain a work environment.

2. Gather supplies

get rid of excess stuff and distractions and make room for what matters to you in your work space. Books and magazines are great, but they might only take away from your focus when turning a coffee table into an office space. Instead, make room for your laptop, notebook, and water bottle. If you are looking to add some life and joy to your space, include a family photo or familiar candle! Stay comfortable and focused!

3. Find a good spot for video calls

Zoom meetings have created their own challenges, but there are ways to make them as successful as possible. Make sure your workspace has a clean wall or space you can be in front of- your employer doesn’t want to see your dirty laundry or bathroom! Hallways or closet doors can make sure great backdrops if you don’t have a clear wall!

4. Put your work away at the end of the day

making an office out of your regular space means that there is the temptation to think about work 24/7. Stay healthy and sane by tucking your laptop away, closing your notebook, and turning off email notification on your phone at the end of your work day.

Things are uncertain now, and we can’t say for sure when “normal” will happen again. However, we can make the most of our time at home by staying productive and creating a new routine. You can get through this, and we will do everything we can to help!

Looking for the perfect place to work and live?

Call your Hunziker Team at (515) 233-4440 and ask about our available options! Here at Hunziker Property Management, we offer over 1,100 units all around Ames! We offer 1-4 bedroom housing for students, professionals, pet or non-pet friendly, and more! With locations in West, South, East, and North Ames, and apartments ranging from efficiency to luxury style, no matter what type of apartment you are looking for, We’ve Got You Covered!

Why Is Winter Apartment Living Great?

duncan.shea@appfolio.com (Appfolio Websites) — Mon, 21 Dec 2020 14:41:13 GMT

Wintertime in Iowa can seem to last forever, but living in an apartment means you get to avoid a few of the most miserable parts of winter. Let's take a look at some of the perks of apartment living during these long and cold months!

Imagine waking up extra early on a cold and dark day just to shovel the driveway and 100 feet of sidewalk all before making a slippery and freezing commute. Sounds terrible, doesn’t it? Well thankfully, at most of our apartment buildings, you never have to worry about that! The majority of leases included snow removal in utilities provided so you can stay warm and cozy just a little bit longer. You can even ask about apartment options with garages to avoid almost all of the freezing morning hassle!

Utilities are another great thing about apartment winter life. Without high air conditioning bills, utility payments tend to become cheaper and more manageable! Most of our units have heating included in the price, so you can really save this winter!

For many people, winter can be a lonely time- especially in between the holidays and going back to school. Living in a building with other people can help counteract any feelings of isolation. Bigger apartment communities often have common amenities such as clubhouses, fitness centers, outdoor spaces, etc. so remember to take advantage!

As the cold weather persists throughout the season, more people are likely to complain about the frigid temperatures and snow on the ground. If you’re lucky enough to live at an apartment with fantastic amenities, you can be occupied with fun activities to get you through the chilly season!

Remember, if you do plan to be gone for an extended period of time during the cold weather months, please notify us so we can make a note for your file in case something should happen while you are absent from the unit. Please remember to make sure to keep your heat above 60 degrees to avoid any pipes freezing or breaking! Stay warm!

Looking for a place to spend the cold months?

Winter Apartment Tips

duncan.shea@appfolio.com (Appfolio Websites) — Mon, 07 Dec 2020 18:03:18 GMT

With the holidays just around the corner, many of you may be getting ready to travel! Use the winter tips below to stay warm and minimize your bills while you’re away!

Do not turn your heat below 60 degrees

Often during the winter months, the temperatures dip down to sub zero temperatures, which can easily cause pipes to freeze and break.

Enjoy the sunshine

Leeping your blinds and curtains open on sunny days will help warm your apartment. Keep your blinds and curtains closed when the sun is down to keep the heat inside.

Reverse your ceiling fans

Flipping the switch on your ceiling fans will pull the cool air upwards while dispersing the warm air at the top of the room outward toward then downward.

Consider using a humidifier

Humid air feels warmer and holds heat better, which eases dry skin and allergies.

Cover up with curtains

Having curtains insulated or with a blackout panel will add extra warmth to your apartment as it will help insulate the windows.

If you do plan to be gone for an extended period of time during the cold weather months, please notify us so we can make a note for your file in case something should happen while you are absent from the unit. We wish you all a wonderful holiday season!

Looking for a place to spend time with loved ones?

Where Should I Live in Ames?

Tue, 01 Dec 2020 14:41:00 GMT

Renewals have started, and it is time to start thinking about where you want to live next year. With over 1,100 units all over Ames we have something for everyone, and we would love to help you find your next home!

Near Iowa State

If you are a student, living as close as possible to campus might be the best option for you! We have hundreds of units within a block of campus, and we have units ranging from studio apartments to 3 bedroom townhome styles! Included in the rent is heat, water, gas, cable or DirecTV, Internet, water, sewer, trash, snow removal, and lawn care. Tenants can expect to get around 100 mbps of internet speed with the ability to upgrade! Check out our apartments within a block of campus HERE !

If being directly on campus isn’t something you need, check out our Country Club Apartments! Country Club is within walking distance of the Ice Arena and Jack Trice Stadium! The 1 – 2 bedroom units offer free reserved parking, wall A/C, a dishwasher, and coin-operated laundry in the secured entrance building. The landlord pays for gas (heat), water/sewer, basic cable, and upgraded Internet (100 mbps). Undergrad students are welcome, and cats are allowed with applicable pet fees! Check out availability HERE !

Whether you’re a student looking for easy access to campus or not, our College Creek Apartments located in West Ames are a great choice for you! The studio, 1, and 2 bedroom apartments are right by two Cyride routes, and are a 5 minute drive to West Hy-Vee. The complex has plenty of parking and coin-operated laundry in each building. Units come with central A/C. The landlord pays for gas (heat), water/sewer, basic cable, and internet. Undergrad students are welcome, and cats are allowed with applicable pet fees! Check out availability HERE !

North Ames

Living in North Ames means you get the best of all worlds! If you are looking for easy Cyride access or apartments in a beautiful residential area, our Somerset apartments are perfect for you! They are located just around the corner from several local Ames favorites including The Cafe, El Azteca, and +39. They are also 8 minutes from campus and close to multiple CyRide stops. The landlord provides gas (heat), water/sewer, basic cable, and upgraded Internet (100 mbps). Tenants are responsible for electricity only. Buildings have secured entrances, and units come with central A/C, a dishwasher, a microwave, and often a garage! Tenants also have access to the Somerset Pool & Clubhouse. Undergrads are welcome! Pets are allowed in certain buildings with applicable pet fees! Find your North Ames Apartment HERE !

If luxury apartments are more your style, Grayhawk is the community for you! These luxury units feature high speed internet, secure entrances, a washer/dryer, DirecTV, and an assigned stall in an attached parking garage included in rent. Grayhawk Apartments offer access to a storm shelter, clubhouse, and a 24 hour fitness room. It is conveniently located next to a grocery store, medical center, gas station & car wash, and is just minutes from the restaurants and businesses in Somerset! No single undergraduates are allowed at this time. Check out our vacancies HERE !

If you are interested in North Ames Apartments, but Somerset or Grayhawk doesn’t sound quite right, Tiverton Court might be the perfect place for you to call home! The apartments are within walking distance to Fareway, and have easy access to all of the Somerset businesses. If you’re looking for a quiet neighborhood that’s near Iowa State Campus, the Tiverton Apartments may be right for you! Check out availability HERE !

West Ames

West Ames is one of the most alive areas Ames has to offer! There are diverse and exciting choices for restaurants, grocery stores, gas stations, fitness centers, and more! Living in West Ames means easy access to Campus, Highway 30, and Lincoln Way so you can always be involved in the community. From studio to luxurious apartments, West Ames has it all! Check out our past blog HERE to learn more about all of our West Ames Apartments.

Here at Hunziker Property Management, we are excited to celebrate another holiday season with you! We hope you enjoy the time spent with family and friends over the coming weeks, and that you make some wonderful memories. Enjoy your celebrations, and just remember if you need anything, your property management team is here to help!

Looking for a place to spend time with loved ones?

Tips for Hosting an Apartment Thanksgiving

Fri, 30 Oct 2020 15:22:06 GMT

Halloween is over, and the rest of the holiday season is fast approaching! You might still be working through your Halloween treats, but it is time to put the skeletons and pumpkins away because Thanksgiving is right around the corner. Time with family and friends is always great, but if it is your turn to host the festivities, you might be feeling some pressure. To make things easier on yourself, here are four tips to help you get through Thanksgiving dinner relatively stress-free!

1. Don't turn down help

Make the process as easy on yourself as possible by accepting people's offers to help! You can even ask everyone to bring a dish, keeping in mind each person’s abilities and resources. For you friends that can’t boil water, ask them to bring napkins, cups, dinner rolls, etc. A step up from that would be making the salad, a cheese platter, or an olive tray. Assign friends and family members with full kitchens things like casseroles, roasted sweet potatoes, desserts, etc. Ideally, you should only have to worry about making the main dish whatever that may be!

2. Consider a casual style

The idea of everyone around a big table giving thanks is nice, but it isn’t always realistic. Take the pressure off by using disposable cutlery/dishes, and use all available seating to make the most of apartment space. Your guests won’t mind sitting on a comfy couch to enjoy a meal- it might even make for a few more laughs and memories!

3. Make a Plan

You’ll want to shop ahead of time – your turkey needs at least two or three days to defrost, depending on the weight. Planning out a cooking schedule can also be a huge help, especially in an apartment with limited space. Make as much as you can ahead of time. Yes, you’ll have to reheat everything the day of, but making a dish of stuffing and a big salad the day before takes those items off your to-do list so you can focus on other things.

4. Finally, set up snack and drink stations outside of the kitchen

You will be busy preparing, heating, and prepping. The last thing you need are guests wandering in to find something to nibble while you are carving a turkey or mashing potatoes.

Looking for a place to spend time with loved ones?

Call your Hunziker Team at (515) 233-4440 and ask about our apartment options! We have new apartments for rent all of the time, and your property management company would love to help you every step of the way! Here at Hunziker Property Management, we offer over 1,100 units all around Ames! We offer 1-4 bedroom housing for students, professionals, pet or non-pet friendly, and more! With locations in West, South, East, and North Ames, and apartments ranging from efficiency to luxury style, no matter what type of apartment you are looking for, We’ve Got You Covered!

Everything You Need To Know About Subleasing

Fri, 25 Sep 2020 13:53:37 GMT

Getting your dream job, graduating, or moving across the country can be so exciting... until you remember your lease goes until next summer. No need to worry though! Our sublease options are meant to help you transition into your next exciting stage of life as smoothly as possible!

How do I apply to sublease my unit?

To get approval to sublease your unit, make sure to read our sublease terms carefully HERE . This will tell you all of the nitty gritty details about the process and allows you to download the sublease form so your unit can go on market as soon as possible! Make sure to turn in the form to our main office as soon as you can!

How do I find someone to sublease?

You have two options to find someone to sublease! We charge a $100 fee (deducted from your security deposit) if you find someone yourself to take over your lease. This means you can do all of the advertising and tours yourself to find someone. You can list your apartment on sites such as Facebook or Craigslist, or you can find a classmate or friend as well!

If you prefer to employ your property management team to find potential renters and do tours, there is a $250 fee (deducted from your security deposit). This may be helpful if you have to move quickly and cannot be around to show people yourself, or if you aren’t comfortable listing your apartment yourself.

If you’d like to utilize both methods of finding a subleasor, you would not be required to pay both fees. You would simply pay the fee that corresponds to the method that is successful in finding a replacement tenant to finish out the terms of the lease.

Once someone is found, they will have to apply, be approved, and pay their own security deposit. After all of this, they will be sent a lease to sign. Once the lease has been signed, you are released of your obligations to the apartment!

What can I do to get my unit rented quicker?

You can talk to your property manager about setting up a rent concession, or leasing incentive! Just decide on an amount you will offer, let your property manager know, and make sure you pay that amount through your tenant portal! Once someone signs the lease for your unit, the amount will be given to them!

What happens to my security deposit?

When you are fully moved out and a future tenant has been found, we will do a full inspection of your unit to determine if there are any charges or repairs needed. We use your move-in inspection form to help determine any deductions to your sublease. The future tenant will pay their own security deposit, so no need to worry about working out funds with them!

What do I do if I have roommates?

If you have roommates that will not be leaving, you don’t actually have to sublease! What you will be doing is actually called a roommate change. We treat all tenants within a unit as “one”, so the lease will stay the same when at least one of the original tenants stays. The security deposit will stay with the lease!

If you have a new roommate to take your place, the new tenant will fill out an application, but does not need to pay us a security deposit. The new tenant and old tenant work a deal out themselves as to how to handle the security deposit. We do not give any money to the tenant who is leaving in a roommate change.

If you’re ready to do a roommate change, please look at our policy and fill out the required form HERE !

Looking to find a sublease?

Call your Hunziker Team at (515) 233-4440 and ask about our apartment listings! We have new apartments for rent all of the time, and we would love to help you through your transition into Ames! At Hunziker Property Management, we offer over 1,100 units in all areas of Ames! We offer 1-4 bedroom housing for students, professionals, pet or non-pet friendly, and more! With locations in West, South, East, and North Ames, and apartments ranging from efficiency to luxury style, no matter what type of apartment you are looking for, We’ve Got You Covered!

Why Do Residents Love Ames?

Fri, 28 Aug 2020 20:36:52 GMT

We are so excited to be welcoming and getting to know our new residents this autumn! Whether you just moved to your Ames apartment or have been a resident for years, there are many great things to explore and learn about! We hope you love Ames as much as we do!

1. Sports are a big deal in Ames!

On football Saturdays, fans pack Jack Trice Stadium and its 61,500 seats for Big 12 Conference action. The Iowa State’s men’s basketball team has made the NCAA tournament 18 times since 1985. The Cyclones women’s basketball team has made the NCAA tourney 17 times since 1997. Make sure to experience the Hilton Magic at Hilton Coliseum!

2. Enjoy the beautiful Iowa outdoors!

Ames features 37 parks and has over 55 miles of bike routes and trails! There are over 3,000 acres of park lands and natural areas to explore. There are also 4 golf courses, canoeing and kayaking opportunities, and countless fishing spots in Ames. Make sure to spend some time outdoors exploring!

3. No need to worry about finding a good school district!

School rankings don’t get much better than the Ames Community School District, ranked No. 1 in the state for 2018 by a national school analysis site. U.S. News & World Report also ranked Ames among the top five Iowa school districts. If you reside in the Gilbert Community School District, you also have access to a quality education! Gilbert High School boasts a National Blue Ribbon School title while still maintaining a small district feel!

4. Iowa State University has a legacy of cutting-edge research and high-quality state education!

Iowa State is particularly known for excellent agricultural, engineering, and veterinary medicine programs. Over 36,000 students attend ISU, and the university offers over 100 programs and degrees. Education doesn’t get much better than cardinal and gold!

5. The public transportation Cyride system can be your best friend when getting around Ames!

The Cyride system has 13 fixed routes (all are wheelchair accessible and allow service animals), a Dial-A-Ride service for persons with a disability, and a late night service called Moonlight Express. Cyrides are free for anyone with a valid student ID or anyone else can pay a small fee! Check out the Cyride routes HERE .

6. Enjoy some special Iowa wine at Prairie Moon Winery and Vineyards!

They are family owned and operated, and are a groundbreaking Iowa winery. Prairie Moon is the first winery in Iowa to serve wine on tap in their tasting room. They are also the only Iowa winery to make “ice wine” made from grapes harvested immediately after the first frost of the year. If craft beer is more your speed, Alluvial Brewing Co. is located next door.

7. Check out the largest collection of public art at any campus in the United States!

Founded in 1975 by Henry J. and Ann Brunnier, the Brunnier Art Museum is located inside the Iowa State Center on the Iowa State University Campus. Check out the ever changing collection of art at the Brunnier Art Museum or enjoy the numerous paintings, murals, and sculptures across campus!

Ready to Call Ames Home?

5 Ways To Make Your New Apartment Feel Like Home

Fri, 24 Jul 2020 19:21:20 GMT

Moving can be stressful, but there are lots of ways to make it better! Your leasing team is by your side if you need any help, and there are lots of things you can do to make this transition as smooth as possible! Check out our 5 tips to make your new Ames Apartment feel like home!

1. Starting with one room

and unpacking it fully will really help make your new space feel familiar and cozy! Take the time to make a safe space for yourself away from the chaos of moving, and take a minute to relax when you need it!

2. Displaying your favorite pieces

of home decor is a great way to feel like your new apartment is truly your home! Having familiar favorites such as your houseplants or favorite painting helps add warmth to your new place!

3. Taking a walk around your neighborhood

is a great way to take a break from unpacking while getting familiar with your new space! There is a lot to explore in Ames from many local businesses in Somerset, to Iowa State’s historical campus, to the many restaurants and businesses in West Ames, and much more!

4. Choosing a signature scent

can help you instantly feel more like home. Lighting a favorite candle or plugging in your favorite air freshener can add your cozy touch to your new apartment!

5. Take a quick trip to the store

to stock up on some of your favorite essential items! Make sure to get some of your favorite foods along with some cleaning items! Taking this break from unpacking can help you destress and remember a few things you will need to feel more at home!

LOOKING FOR MORE INFORMATION ABOUT YOUR NEW HOME?

Call your Hunziker Team at (515) 233-4440 and ask for a leasing specialist! They can help answer any questions you may have about your new apartment or about the Ames community! At Hunziker Property Management, we offer over 1,100 units all around Ames! We offer 1-4 bedroom housing for students, professionals, pet or non-pet friendly, and more! With locations in West, South, East, and North Ames, and apartments ranging from efficiency to luxury style, no matter what type of apartment you are looking for, We’ve Got You Covered!

Life In Somerset

Tue, 23 Jun 2020 20:00:15 GMT

Looking to be a part of an activity community? Looking for a place to call home close to both campus and the rest of Ames? Looking for easy access to restaurants, gas stations, fitness centers, and more? Somerset is perfect for anyone looking for the Ames experience! Join students, professionals, and families in calling Somerset home!

What Does Somerset Have to Offer?

Here at Hunziker Property Management, we manage over 170 units in the Somerset area. From efficiency to three bedroom units, there is something for everyone! Most units come with all utilities included except for electricity, and many come with a garage and a washer/dryer in the unit or free laundry in the building! With lots of amenities included,

The Somerset area is home to many local Ames favorites such as El Azteca, The Cafe, +39, and Brick City Grill. Our Somerset apartments are also within walking distance of a fitness center, yoga studio, dental office and so much more! At only 8 minutes from campus and directly on Cyride routes, Somerset apartments are perfect for students, professionals, and families alike. Somerset life is full of exciting places and experiences!

Tenants in our Somerset buildings also have access to the beautiful Somerset Clubhouse and Pool managed by the Somerset Village and Garden Apartment Association. The business center is the perfect place for family gatherings or business meetings with a copier center, free WIFI, an attached kitchen, and two meeting rooms at your fingertips. On summer days, spending time at the outdoor pool is the perfect way to cool down and relax! We look forward to the pool reopening in 2021 for all to enjoy!

LOOKING TO BE A PART OF LIFE IN SOMERSET?

Hunziker Property Management offers over 1,100 units all around Ames with over 170 in Somerset, and we take pride in making sure our tenants' needs are met! We offer 1-4 bedroom housing for students, professionals, pet or non-pet friendly, and more! With locations near campus, West, South, East, and North Ames, and apartments ranging from efficiency to luxury style, no matter what type of apartment you are looking for, We’ve Got You Covered!

Apartment Maintenance

Fri, 29 May 2020 17:08:48 GMT

When the unexpected happens, having a great team on your side makes it so much easier to get through. At Hunziker, we are proud to have a 24 hour maintenance team ready and willing to take care of you!

Why Is Apartment Maintenance Important?

Keeping a well maintained and clean unit is your responsibility as a tenant. This helps to make sure that a safe and sanitary environment is provided for everyone that lives with us. Things happen though, and we are prepared to help you through unexpected issues!

Being locally owned and operated means that we work closely with our maintenance staff. They are Hunziker employees which means that they are held to the highest standards of tenant care and safety. If you ever are having an issue, our team will be there to help!

What Am I Responsible For?

Make sure to keep a plunger in your unit!

To avoid maintenance charges, be prepared to take care of all routine plunging in your unit. Don’t flush any paper products besides toilet paper- avoid flushing disposable diapers & wipes, sanitary napkins, facial tissue, or cotton swabs!

Light bulbs are supplied for each unit upon move-in.

Replacement of the original bulbs is at your own expense- make sure to keep them with the correct wattage when getting replacements!

Keep batteries in smoke detectors/carbon monoxide detectors!

It is up to you to make sure batteries get replaced when needed and the detectors aren’t disconnected. You will be subject to a service charge for any detectors found disconnected or without functioning batteries!

Make sure to keep track of your keys!

Contact the office if you get locked out of your unit or lose a key for your door, mailbox, or garage. For a fee, we will issue a replacement key or unlock your door. Make sure to keep keys in a safe place to ensure your safety and avoid any unnecessary charges!

What Does Maintenance Take Care Of?

Give us a call when taking an extended vacation or absence!

To avoid any complications during your absence, let us know how long you will be gone. Don’t turn your electricity or heat off and do not set your thermostat below sixty degrees- this can cause freezing or other complications! Letting us know helps keep an eye on things in your absence.

Painting your apartment is prohibited

but call our office or contact your property manager if you are looking to have any alterations done to your unit!

For any non-emergency electrical, leaking water, or mechanical malfunctions please call in during office hours

but call our office or contact your property manager if you are looking to have any alterations done to your unit!

For after-hours emergencies please call our office at (515) 233-4440 and push 0 to submit an emergency on-call request.

LOOKING FOR A PROPERTY MANAGEMENT COMPANY THAT WILL PUT YOU FIRST?

Hunziker Property Management offers over 1,100 units all around Ames, and we take pride in making sure our tenants' needs are met! We offer 1-4 bedroom housing for students, professionals, pet or non-pet friendly, and more! With locations near campus, West, South, East, and North Ames, and apartments ranging from efficiency to luxury style, no matter what type of apartment you are looking for, We’ve Got You Covered!

Why Live In West Ames?

Wed, 29 Apr 2020 18:25:59 GMT

Where Can I Rent In West Ames?

FOUNTAINVIEW APARTMENTS

These apartments are located in West Ames just minutes away from Iowa State University campus, Ames Middle School, and Ames Racquet and Fitness Center West- and don’t forget easy access to Highway 30! These apartments come equipped with washer/dryer, high-speed internet, DirecTV, and a garage parking with no extra charge. No need to worry about high utility bills because our tenants only pay for electricity here! See all Fountainview availabilities HERE !

WESTSTAR

These modern and spacious West Ames apartments off of South Dakota Ave. feature stainless steel appliances, central A/C, a washer & dryer, a restricted entrance, and a private deck. Tenants are just a 5 minute drive to the Iowa State University campus or have the option to catch a #1 Red Cyride bus just outside of the complex. High speed internet, DirecTV, and a parking spot in an attached garage are included, and tenants only pay for electricity. Sorry, no undergrads. See our WestStar units HERE !

WESTCOURT

These classic and cozy apartments are located on a peaceful lot with beautiful shade-giving trees. They are conveniently located near the intersection of North Dakota Ave. and Ontario, which is right on the #2 Green Cyride route. If you are looking for a quiet Ames apartment, the Westcourt Apartments may be perfect for you! Tenants will have access to high speed internet, basic cable, reserved parking, dishwasher, central A/C, and coin-operated laundry. We welcome cats, and tenants are responsible for paying electricity only. See the availabilities HERE !

POLO RUN TOWNHOMES

If you are looking for a spacious apartment in Ames near the Iowa State campus, the Polo Run townhomes are perfect for you! They are 3 bedroom townhomes located in Northwest Ames off of North Dakota and Ontario near the #2 Green Cyride route. These units are two-stories with a washer & dryer and central A/C. They also include a garage, reserved parking spaces, and are pet friendly. The landlord pays for gas (heat), water/sewer, basic cable and newly upgraded internet (100 mbps). Tenants are responsible for electricity only. Check out Polo Run HERE !

WESTERN HILLS

The Western Hills Apartments offer a quiet, professional environment at an affordable price. Located in West Ames off of South Dakota Ave. and near the #1 Red Cyride route, these apartments have quick access to grocery stores, such as Hy-Vee and Pammel grocery, restaurants and other activities. Rent includes internet, basic cable, heat, water/sewer/trash, lawn care and snow removal. Sorry, no undergrads are allowed. Check out the available units HERE !

COLLEGE CREEK

Our College Creek Apartments are located in West Ames right off of Lincoln Way. The studio, 1, and 2 bedroom apartments are right by two Cyride routes and are a 5 minute drive to West Hy-Vee. The complex has plenty of open parking and coin-operated laundry in each building. Units come with a dishwasher, a microwave, central A/C, and a storage unit. The landlord pays for gas (heat), water/sewer, basic cable, and upgraded Internet (100 mbps). Tenants are responsible for electricity only. Undergrads are welcome! See available options HERE !

LOOKING FOR THE PERFECT WEST AMES APARTMENT?

Whether it be over call, email or chat, your rental agents are ready to help you find the perfect place to live- ask them about your options in West Ames! Hunziker Property Management offers over 1,100 units all around Ames! We offer 1-4 bedroom housing for students, professionals, pet or non-pet friendly, and more! With locations in West, South, East, and North Ames, and apartments ranging from efficiency to luxury style, no matter what type of apartment you are looking for, We’ve Got You Covered!

7 Ways To Brighten Up Any Apartment

Fri, 27 Mar 2020 16:47:22 GMT

Now more than ever, many of us are spending a lot of time in our homes. Make your apartment space feel cozy and refreshed with our top ways to brighten up any space-without breaking the bank!

Natural lighting

is a great way to transform a smaller space into a cozy and refreshing place to do work or simply hang out! During the day, open your curtains to let as much light in as possible, and on nicer days be sure to crack your window open to get some fresh air. You’ll feel more energised and refreshed in no time!

Lighting a candle

adds a glow that lightbulbs just can’t beat! In a dimmer space without much natural lighting (like a bathroom), adding different forms of light adds another dimension to the room. Pick your favorite scent and enjoy- just make sure the counter surface is free of towels or other flammable items!

Learning a new kitchen skill

is an easy way to stay active while still in the comforts of your apartment! Baking is an especially good way to make your unit smell amazing- plus you get some sweet treats that pair perfectly with a cup of tea and Netflix! Your Property Managers and HMP Team all love THIS delicious blueberry cheesecake cookie recipe!

Decorating with plants

is an incredible way to enjoy spring even when spending more time indoors! Look into succulents like a jade plant or cactus if you’re just developing your green thumb! Plants with draping leaves such as ferns or Pothos plants are great for hanging baskets or for placing on a ledge or breakfast bar. The natural green and cleaner air is a great way to feel more relaxed and at home!

Rearranging your living room

can be as simple as switching the side your TV and couch are on, but it is a simple way to make a change in your living space! Consider moving your furniture around to refresh the space and get a new perspective on your rooms! Making sure your bed or couch is near a window can add refreshing light into your Ames apartment!

Keeping your unit clean

is great for many reasons! It helps make a smaller space feel bigger and can even help you get your security deposit back when moving out. If you don’t know where to start when tidying up, try picking up all clothes and clearing off your counter tops! Rooms will instantly look just a little bit bigger and more inviting!

Hanging pictures

is a simple and homey way to keep your friends and family close! You can hang them on your walls with sticky tack to be able to rearrange them whenever you feel like it- or try using decorative clothespins and yarn for a different and modern look! Keeping loved ones close is sure to make your apartment truly feel like home!

LOOKING FOR DECORATING IDEAS AND THE PERFECT SPACE TO CALL HOME?

When apartment hunting, ask your leasing specialist about some of the creative ways they have seen people decorate! Hunziker Property Management offers over 1,100 units all around Ames, and our agents have seen so many great ways to make a space creative and beautiful! We offer 1-4 bedroom housing for students, professionals, pet or non-pet friendly, and more! With locations in West, South, East, and North Ames, and apartments ranging from efficiency to luxury style, no matter what type of apartment you are looking for, We’ve Got You Covered!

Apartment Friendly Exercises That Won't Annoy Your Neighbors

Thu, 27 Feb 2020 22:38:10 GMT

Staying fit in the spring is always a challenge- especially when you rent apartments and have limited space! Here are our favorite exercise tips to get the blood pumping and heart racing in a small space with no equipment.

Warm Up

Before any workout, warming up is important to help prevent injuries and prepare the body to work hard over the course of your exercising. Try to move and lightly stretch as many muscles as possible!

Start your warm-up with your favorite stretches! Try to include stretches for your legs, hips, core, back, and shoulders.

Next, we will add some movement to loosen your muscles! Start by standing up tall with your legs shoulder-width apart. Spread your arms straight out on either side and make small circles with your arms getting bigger as time goes on. Do this for 30 seconds to a minute to start getting some blood flowing!

Finally, get ready to move your legs! Stand up tall with your feet a bit further than shoulder-width apart and slowly lean and squat slightly to the right side. Hold that position for 3-5 seconds before shifting over to the left side holding again for 3-5 seconds. You should be feeling a stretch in your inner thighs, glutes, and your hips. To challenge yourself a bit more, hold a weight (or textbook!) at chest level as you move.

The Exercises

Repeat each exercise 10-15 times and if you have time, work through them all 2-4 times to really work your whole body!

PLANK (core, shoulder, glutes, back)

To do a plank that fully engages your core, on your yoga mat or towel, get into pushup position

Keep your palms and toes firmly planted while holding your core and glutes tight. Make sure not to let your head or lower back sag as you hold this position for 30 seconds to a minute

SQUATS (thighs, hamstring, hips, core)

Squats are a great and versatile exercise that can be easily modified depending on your comfort level!

Make sure you tighten your core slightly and keep your back straight as you slowly lower your hips. Make sure your thighs are parallel to the ground, and try to not lean forward onto your toes

Pause in this position for 1-2 seconds before straightening back up again. If you are looking for a challenge, try holding a heavy book or widen your stance and turn your toes outward slightly!

SUPERMAN (lower back, core, arms, thigh)

For the Superman, get back on your mat or towel! Start off laying face down with your hands outstretched in front of you.

Keep your arms and legs straight as you slowly raise them both 10-15 centimeters up making a slight bowl shape with your body. Make sure to not strain your neck upwards and adjust if you feel any discomfort!

To make this exercise more challenging, hold the position longer or hold a 2-5 lbs weight!

GLUTE BRIDGE (glutes, core, thighs)

For the glute bridge, lie down on your mat face up and firmly plant your feet on the ground with your knees in the air. You shins should be straight up and down.

Slowly lift your hips up off of the ground and squeeze your glutes. Push up until your shoulders, hips and knees are in a straight line, and make sure you engage your hips and glutes when lifting up!

Hold this position for a few seconds and slowly lower yourself back down, and repeat! To challenge yourself, try doing the exercise with one foot out straight from your hips or with your feet on a medicine ball (or small stool braced against a wall!)

WALL SITS (core, thighs, calves, arms)

Wall sits are a simple way to end the endurance and repetition part of your workout! Start off with your feet shoulder width apart while standing up near a wall.

Slowly lower yourself until your thighs are parallel with the ground- your shins should be straight up and down and your back should be braced against the wall. Make sure to keep your arms straight out in front of you to engage them as well!

Keep your knees directly above your ankles as you hold this position for 30 seconds to a minute. For an extra challenge, hold the position longer or hold a heavy book or light weight out in front of you for the whole time!

Cool Down

Including a cool down is crucial to encourage recovery after a workout! To avoid being sore, make sure to ease the body out of the workout, and stay moving throughout the rest of the day!

For the last part of the warm-up, lay a yoga mat (or a comfy towel!) out on the ground.

Lay flat on your back with your arms by your side with your fingertips towards your toes. Slowly exhale and sit up! Make sure to focus on moving one vertebrae at a time as you roll up to a sitting position.

Repeat some of your favorite stretches on your mat or towel and make sure to keep moving throughout the day to avoid getting too sore!

Looking For More Ways to Stay Fit Around Ames?

Set up a showing and make sure to ask your agent about fitness options in the area! Hunziker Property Management offers over 1,100 units all around Ames, with some units including a fitness membership or an on-site gym! We offer 1-4 bedroom housing for students, professionals, pet owners, and more! With locations in West, South, East, and North Ames, and apartments ranging from efficiency to luxury style, no matter what type of apartment you are looking for, we’ve got you covered!

Everything You Need To Know About Lease Renewals

Fri, 31 Jan 2020 16:17:42 GMT

Everything You Need To Know About Lease Renewals In Ames

It’s that time of year, everyone! Apartment renewal offers in Ames have been sent out and you now have to decide if you want to renew your apartment lease for next year, or move.

What is a lease renewal offer?

When your lease is up, you will have the chance to opt for a lease renewal, which means that at the end of your lease term, both you and your property manager agree to renew the lease. The property manager will create a new lease with similar terms to that of the original, and both you and the property manager (and any of your roommates who are also choosing to renew) will need to sign this new contract. Your renewal lease could be slightly different that your original lease, with the most common changes affecting the rent and concessions.

What is the process for a lease renewal in Ames?

After you’ve been notified by your property manager of your impending end date, it will be time for you to make a choice. If you choose to renew your lease, then you will need to login to your online portal and sign your renewal offer, or stop in the office for a paper copy. If your property manager does not have an email address on file for you, a paper lease will be mailed to you. Be sure to keep track of your lease renewal deadline!

What is a rental concession?

A rental concession is a reduction in the cost of rent by the property manager in hopes of finding a tenant quicker. This tactic is often used when the rental market isn’t as promising as expected. For instance, if your monthly rent is $1,200, but your lease states a concession of $50, then you will only be paying $1,150 in rent. A concession could also be in the form of "1st Month Rent Free". Though concession fees are great for renters, they may not stick around for your lease renewal. Be aware of this when you’re reviewing your lease renewal offer.

If you decide to renew, you will be accepting your new rental rate, and your property manager will send you a new lease agreement to review and sign. You will not be required to pay any further fees when you renew your lease, such as an application fee, or security deposit. Those were taken care of when you originally moved into the apartment – phew!

Moving into a new apartment

If you’ve opted out of a lease renewal, then your final option is to move out of your current apartment and find a new rental. Whether your rent is increasing too much for you to renew, you are interested in a new location, or you simply want to look for a new place, we have you covered when you’re ready to find your new apartment! But before you begin your search, make sure that you provide your property manager or landlord with a written notice to vacate letter, and that your lease terms have been fulfilled.

When you move out of your apartment after your lease is up, you can possibly receive money back from your security deposit and your pet deposit (if you paid one), depending if the apartment is left free of damage and cleaned to your property manager’s standards. But how exactly do you get your security deposit back after you move out of your apartment?

Getting your security deposit back

Getting your security deposit back from your property manager or landlord isn’t always a guaranteed deal. The amount (if any) that you receive after you’ve moved out of the apartment depends on the state your unit was left in. To secure yourself the return of your security deposit, you’ll want to:

Thoroughly clean your apartment, from the floor to the ceiling fans
Make any and all repairs to the damage you caused, such as holes in the wall
Return your keys, including your mail key, garage remote, etc.
Use the checklist provided by your property manager to make sure you don’t miss anything!

Your best chance of getting your security deposit back is leaving your apartment in tip-top shape, back to the condition you found it in. As long as you (or your pet) did not damage the property and you paid rent in full on time, every time, you should receive your security deposit back after you move out of your apartment. You can expect this payment by check through the mail to your new address (as long as you provide your property manager with new address prior to moving out) within 30 of your lease end date.

If you have roommates and would like the security deposit split between you please make sure that all roommates have provided their forwarding address as well. If one roommate will be receiving the full security deposit, all other roommates must email their permission to the property manager.

After your lease ends

When it comes down to it, you have two logical options of what to do when your lease is up. You can: renew your lease for another term, or move out of your apartment (with proper notice) and find a new rental. Do your research regarding the cost of rent in the area, decide what your budget is, determine potential moving costs, and ultimately figure out which option is best for your living situation. Best of luck, renters!

Looking for an apartment in Ames? We've Got You Covered.

Hunziker Property Management offers over 1,100 units all around Ames! We offer 1-4 bedroom housing for students, professionals, pet or non-pet friendly, and more! With locations in West, South, East, and North Ames, and apartments ranging from efficiency to luxury style, no matter what type of apartment you are looking for, We’ve Got You Covered!

How to Find An Apartment Near Iowa State University Campus

Mon, 23 Dec 2019 18:51:29 GMT

How to Find An Apartment Near Iowa State University Campus

What to Consider When Looking for An Apartment Near Campus

What security features does the building have? Is the door limited access?

Is parking included, or will that cost extra? Where can your guests park?

Where is the closest laundry facility? How much will it cost?

What utilities are included? Finding an apartment with most of the utilities included will really help your budget!

Is it within walking distance to campus or will you need some kind of transportation? Where is the closest CyRide stop?

During Your Apartment Tour

Are you touring the exact unit you are interested in living in?

Look for the internet and cable jacks to plan where you will put your furniture!

Are there noisy neighbors or pets? (Hint: living on the top floor guarantees you won’t have noise above you!)

What are the next steps in leasing the apartment?

Make sure you ask the leasing specialist any other questions you may have while you are there. Wishing you the best of luck in your apartment search!

Browse Ames Apartments For Rent

We have hundreds of units within one block of Iowa State University Campus! If you have any questions or would like to schedule a showing please contact us today!

Winter Apartment Tips

Mon, 25 Nov 2019 18:07:33 GMT

Winter Apartment Tips

With the holidays just around the corner, many of you may be getting ready to travel! Use the winter tips below to stay warm and minimize your bills while you’re away!

1. Do not turn your heat below 60 degrees -

Often during the winter months, the temperatures dip down to sub zero temperatures, which can easily cause pipes to freeze and break.

2. Enjoy the sunshine -

Keeping your blinds and curtains open on sunny days will help warm your apartment. Keep your blinds and curtains closed when the sun is down to keep the heat inside.

3. Reverse your ceiling fans -

Flipping the switch on your ceiling fans will pull the cool air upwards while dispersing the warm air at the top of the room outward toward then downward.

4. Consider using a humidifier -

Humid air feels warmer and holds heat better, which eases dry skin and allergies.

5. Cover up with curtains -

Having curtains insulated or with a blackout panel will add extra warmth to your apartment as it will help insulate the windows.

Traveling for the Holidays?

If you do plan to be gone for an extended period of time during the cold weather months, please notify us so we can make a note for your file in case something should happen while you are absent from the unit. We wish you all a wonderful holiday season!

Best Meals to Make for Large Groups

Tue, 29 Oct 2019 14:37:08 GMT

With the holidays quickly approaching, see our suggestions below for the best meals that can be made in large quantities with a minimal prep time!

Baked Pasta

Lasagna, baked mostaccioli and casseroles are crowd-please comfort foods that require little effort and just a couple ingredients! Pair it with a salad and breadsticks for an Italian feast!

Taco Bar

Getting your guests involved in making the meal is more fun for everyone and less work for you. Make your seasoning and ground meat ahead of time, then prep your veggies and heat up your tortillas right before mealtime. Set everything out on the counter and let your guests assemble their tacos the way they like them!

Chili Contest

Turn your dinner party into a competition! In your invite, challenge your guests to bring their best chili recipe, with a prize for the winner. As the host, you can then focus on the appetizers and sides, like chips with homemade guacamole, pasta salad and cornbread.

Barbecue

If you have a grill, hosting a barbecue is a good bet for big groups and little stress. Tell your guests that you’ll supply the meat and buns and ask them to bring the sides, drinks and desserts!

Baked Potato Bar

Easy and cheap to do! All you have to do is bake the potatoes and put out the toppings and the guests can make their potatoes the way they want!

Can You Remove a Roommate From Your Lease

Fri, 27 Sep 2019 19:33:04 GMT

Renting with roommates means many things, including paying less in rent, splitting utilities, and having someone to help keep the apartment tidy. Though having a roommate has many benefits, things don’t always work out, and you may find yourself looking for a way to remove a roommate from your lease.

Review Your Lease Agreement

First things first: review your lease agreement before you make any rash decisions. You and your roommate should each have access to your lease agreement, and on that agreement you will find what your options are. All of HPM’s leases are joint leases with your roommate, meaning that you are both equally responsible for the entire apartment and the cost of rent, so you will still have to pay their portion of the rent if they break their lease.

Can You Evict Your Roommate?

Despite your situation, you cannot force a roommate out of your apartment or remove their name from the lease simply because you want them to leave. You have to consult with your landlord or property manager and be sure that everything is done the right way.

Your Options

1. Try to mend fences with your roommate

If the situation is fixable, it’s probably in your best interest to smooth things over. This way, you won’t have to deal with the consequences of finding a new roommate. If the two of you cannot come to a resolution, then you still have other options.

2. Sublease your room and move to a different apartment

Getting out of the apartment (if your roommate isn’t willing to leave) is a legitimate option. Unfortunately, this means you’ll be forced to attempt to sublease your room. Until your current lease has been signed by a new tenant, you are responsible for the unit (and the rent).

3. Suggest that your roommate move out

If you don’t want to break the lease yourself, you could suggest to your roommate that they move out instead. If they agree to this, and are equally fed up with cohabitating, then you can be free of this roommate situation for good. You can help your roommate find a subleaser for their room, so they will not be forced to pay the rent, although they are not residing there. This will also give you the chance to find someone you would like to room with!

The Roommate Change Process

All roommates must fill out and sign the Roommate Change form in order for the roommate change to be approved. All roommate changes must be approved by Hunziker Property Management.

A roommate change is when at least one roommate is staying in the apartment while one of the other roommates are leaving, before the end of the lease. We treat all tenants within a unit as “one”, so the lease will stay the same when at least one of the original tenants stays. When all tenants on the current lease decide to move out before the lease expires, a sublease is needed. If any of the tenants decide to stay and find a new roommate, then it is considered a roommate change.The security deposit stays with the lease. On a roommate change, the new tenant will fill out an application, but does not need to pay us a security deposit. The new tenant and old tenant work a deal out themselves as to how to handle the security deposit. We do not give any money to the tenant who is leaving in a roommate change.

So You Just Signed the Lease on Your New Apartment

Fri, 30 Aug 2019 05:00:00 GMT

As the proud new resident of your apartment, making sure you are ready for move-in day is an essential next step in the leasing process. From getting acclimated with your new neighborhood, setting up utilities and ensuring all mail is transferred to your new place — there is a lot that goes into making sure you are prepared to move into your apartment. Check out some of our tips on how to prepare before moving boxes and renting that U-Haul.

Transfer and Set Up Utilities

Prior to moving into your apartment, it's important to make sure you have set up the essential utilities you need to live in your new place. Making sure your gas, electricity and water are set up prior to move-in day is crucial in making sure your apartment will be ready for you to move in. For lower priority utilities like the internet and TV, make sure to cancel with your provider before moving and give them your new address to continue to get their services once you’ve settled into the new place. If you’re moving into a Hunziker apartment, you can see the list of utilities and services you’ll need to set up here .

Make Sure You Have Renter's Insurance

Almost all apartments require proof of renter’s insurance prior to moving in. Coordinate with your insurance company to get this completed and have a copy of the declaration page on hand to give to your property manager.

Change Your Address

Your address is connected to a lot of your personal information that is important for everyday life. Everything from getting your paycheck, receiving mail and keeping your license up to date all rely on having an updated address. Make sure to take a trip to the post office or head to USPS’s website to complete a change of address form so future mail will be sent to your new address and mail that makes its way to your old address will be rerouted. Next, visit the bank to update your address so your paycheck will be sent to the right place. Finally, make a stop at the Department of Transportation (DOT) to update your driver's license. If you have any recurring magazines or subscriptions make sure to cancel those as well. Taking these steps will ensure nothing slips through the cracks during the move.

Recruit Your Moving Team

Now that you have transferred utilities, changed your address and feel ready for move-in day, it’s time to recruit a moving team. Give a call to friends that might owe you a favor, check in with family members who would be willing to help or opt to hire professional movers. No matter how you choose to tackle move-in day, make sure to have your boxes packed and ready to go before your team gets there to save time and energy.

Walk Through Your Unit

Once you get the keys, you’ll most likely receive a move-in inspection report. Make a point to walk through your apartment to note any repairs that need to be done and relay them to your property manager so come move out time, you won’t be penalized.

Explore Your Neighborhood

After you’ve finalized all the details for move-in day, try and get acclimated with your new neighborhood. You could track your commute to school, work or any local shopping centers. See where the closest grocery store is to you or take note of any public transportation nearby you could use. Getting yourself familiar with your neighborhood will make the transition of moving into a new space much easier.

Rent an Apartment in Ames, Iowa

Looking for an apartment in the Ames area? View our vacant properties and contact us to schedule a tour!

7 Tips for When You Move This Summer

Tue, 30 Jul 2019 05:00:00 GMT

Popular summer activities can range from swimming, vacations, barbeques, and more, but one of the biggest activities that people all over the U.S. participate in during the summer is moving. While there are many benefits in moving during May through August, the heat can also make the moving process a little more difficult. Read our tips on how to safely and efficiently make your move during a hot summer!

Plan Your Moving Timeline

Life will be a lot easier come moving day if you have your timeline planned out in advance. Figure out when your current lease ends and new one begins, determine how many of your friends and family can help out, and strategize what needs to get moved and when. Having this all written out will give you peace of mind and make an already stressful day more manageable.

Map Out Logistics

Summer is peak season for moving companies. Decide whether it’s in your best interest to hire a moving company to help you out, or if you think you can get by with a pickup truck and some help from willing friends and family. The sooner you determine this, the better, as you don’t want to have to pay outrageous prices or risk not getting moved in time because you’re waiting on availability from a moving company.

Ensure Utilities Are On

The last thing you want is to move into your new apartment without any air conditioning or electricity. Double-check with your utility provider or property manager that everything is completed on your end so you know you’ll have a comfortable apartment when you start moving things in.

Purge Your Belongings With a Garage Sale or Donation

There’s no sense in moving things you don’t need in the blistering heat! Moving is the perfect time to really go through all of your belongings and toss out anything you know you don’t need anymore. Plan out a garage/yard sale with friends or donate to a local Goodwill or Salvation Army and you won’t need to worry about transporting old items to your new home.

Be Mindful of What You Pack

Specific items can get damaged if in the heat for extended periods of time. As you’re packing, think about which items will need special care. They might need to be transported separately or in your own car so you can ensure that they get put into your apartment as soon as possible. These items can include:

Electronics like TVs, computers, DVD players, etc.

Candles
Perishable food items
Plants
DVDs and CDs

Beat the Heat & Move in the Morning or Evening

Try your best to avoid doing any heavy lifting and moving during the hottest hours of the day (12 PM - 3 PM). If possible, start moving items early in the morning or much later during the day, so you can work on organizing and putting away items comfortably inside your air-conditioned apartment during the hot afternoon.

Protect Yourself From the Sun

You can’t forget about yourself and your friends/family during move day! Take measures to make sure you’re all safe, protected, and comfortable throughout the moving process.

Stock up on Sunscreen

You’re already going to be sore from the move, don’t be sunburnt too. Protect your skin and use a high SPF!

Dress for Success

Ditch the flip flops and dark-colored clothing. When it comes to moving in the summer, wear light-colored, loose-fitting clothing, a hat, sunglasses, and sneakers.

Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate

Have plenty of water on hand for everyone helping out! Heatstrokes and dehydration are common when spending extended periods of time outside or while doing physical tasks. Keeping everyone hydrated will help make sure the day goes smoothly.

Find Apartments for Rent in Ames

If you’re planning on moving to Ames this summer, view our different properties , or contact us at Hunziker Property Management to find your perfect home!

Tornado Safety Tips When Living in an Apartment

Mon, 08 Jul 2019 05:00:00 GMT

With the warm and humid Iowa weather often comes plenty of tornados, and while typically cyclones are a good thing in Ames, the weather kind are what we need to be prepared for. Living in an apartment during severe weather can be nerve-wracking, but we’re here to pass on a few tips to help you feel confident and safe the next time you hear storm sirens go off.

How to Prepare for Upcoming Tornado Weather

Ask Your Leasing Manager About Tornado Protocol

This will vary on which apartment complex you live in, but all apartments should have a recommended area, storm shelter, basement, etc. for tenants to use in the event of severe weather.

Create a Plan

Take into consideration what floor your unit is on and where you’ll need to head when tornado weather hits. Do you have pets? Are there any valuables you know you’ll need to bring along? Write this down and check it every now and then to remember what your plan is.

Put Together an Emergency Kit

Keeping an evacuation kit handy can help provide you with essentials if you’re in a spot where you don’t have time to look for and grab things before seeking shelter. Items that could be in your kit include:

Portable radio
Flashlight
Extra batteries
Money
First aid kit
Water

Look for the Signs

Often times, it can be easy to pick out signals that a tornado is on its way. Check to see if the following things seem out of the ordinary:

Quickly moving clouds

If a tornado is close, you’ll see strong, continual cloud rotation towards the cloud base.

Sporadic weather changes

Notice if the weather is changing rapidly. This can look like heavy rain occurring for a few minutes, followed by a dead calm, taken over by large bouts of wind.

High wind

If a tornado is near, debris and dust will begin rapidly spinning around.

Continuous rumbling

If you hear a low rumble that lasts longer than your average thunder, this could also be a sign.

What to Do in the Event of a Tornado

Move to the Lowest Apartment Level Possible

If given enough warning, try your best to move down to the first floor of your apartment, if not to a basement or shelter that your complex may have on-site. The lower you are, the safer you will be.

Seek Shelter Away from Windows

If you can’t leave your apartment unit, look for shelter as far away from windows as possible. Pick a place like a bathroom, closet, or even a hallway. Once there, try to use blankets, towels, etc. to cover yourself in the event that debris enters your apartment.

Wait Out the Storm

If able, use your phone or portable radio to stay up to date with tornado warnings/watches and only leave shelter once the coast is clear. Even if the rain stops, or you don’t hear thunder anymore, does not mean it is safe for you to move yet.

Find Your Ames Apartment

Are you looking for an apartment to lease in Ames starting this summer? View our properties page to find the perfect fit and contact us for a tour.

Cleaning Before You Move Out: Tips and Tricks to Help Make Your Place Spotless

Thu, 06 Jun 2019 05:00:00 GMT

Moving out of an apartment can be an exciting, yet overwhelming task, and cleaning it before you go is probably the last thing you want to do. However, this ensures your apartment is ready for the next tenant while helping you get that security deposit back. Each apartment is different but, reading through some of our tips on how and what to clean before you go can help make your life a little easier as you begin the move out process!

Know What You're in Charge of Before Inspection

Check with your property manager to see what needs to be taken care of and completed on your end before the move out inspection appointment. Hunziker Property Management requires the following from their tenants moving out an apartment:

Schedule a move out inspection

HPM will reach out to let you know your scheduled move out date and time. While it’s not a requirement to attend, it is to your benefit to be there.

Rent and utilities should be paid for through the end of the lease

Both your full rent and utilities need to be paid for and taken care of through the end of your lease. For example, if you move out one week before your lease end date, your utilities must still be active and in your name until the end date of your lease.

Set up a carpet cleaning appointment

Carpets in all of our apartments are cleaned prior to moving in, so we require our tenants to ensure carpets are left in the same condition. Carpets must be cleaned and receipts should be kept and given to HPM during the move out inspection.

Empty unit of all personal belongings

Even if you don’t plan on taking some items with you to your new apartment, they cannot be left behind in any of our units. Make sure all of your personal items are removed from the unit and find a new home for the belongings you don’t want anymore.

Make sure all lightbulbs and detectors work

Test all light bulbs and detectors in your apartment to ensure they are working properly prior to your move out date. These are all important items the new tenant will need.

Give Yourself Plenty of Time

In the hustle and bustle of moving your life from one place to the next, you may forget about how much cleaning needs to be done before you go! Plan ahead and give yourself enough time to move and thoroughly clean your place. This way you won’t have to rush your cleaning process and can make sure you cover every item on your checklist.

Go Through Your Leasing Manager's Cleaning List

Property management companies don’t try to hide what they’re inspecting in your unit. Reach out to your property manager about a cleaning list so you know what you are responsible for! You can expect the inspector to use this same list when they do a walkthrough of your apartment at the inspection.

Tackle Each Room One-by-One

Don’t get overwhelmed with the thought of cleaning your whole apartment at once. Create a game plan where you can conquer each room one at a time. Here are some of the things you need to make sure you clean for each room.

Kitchen

Clean the inside and outside of all cabinets and drawers
Clean off countertops
Clean inside and outside of the fridge and wipe off the top
Clean inside trays/racks and outside of the dishwasher
Clean oven and racks, under burners, burner drip pans, and broiler pan or drawer
Wipe down microwave
Sweep and mop the floor and clean/shine the faucet and sink
Clean light fixtures and replace burnt bulbs

Living Room

Clean ceiling fan blades
Clean inside of windows and sills and remove dead bugs
Clean blinds and light fixtures
Vacuum prior to carpet cleaning and go around the edges of the room

Bedroom

Wash all windows inside sills, clean light fixtures, and clean blinds removing any dead bugs
Wipe down baseboards, door, and trim
Remove cobwebs
Clean heat registers
Wipe off closet shelves
Replace burnt bulbs
Clean woodwork and doors of the closet
Vacuum prior to carpet cleaning

Bathroom

Clean light fixtures and remove bugs
Clean vent fan and replace all burnt light bulbs
Clean baseboards
Sweep and mop
Clean doors and track of your shower/bathtub
Clean tub, surroundings, and fixtures
Wipe out cabinet, vanity, and door
Clean mirror
Clean inside and outside of the stool
Clean sink, fixtures, and countertops
Wipe down towel bar and toilet paper holder

Deck/Patio

Remove all items
Sweep
Replace burnt out bulbs

Enlist the Help of Friends and Family

Don’t try to clean your whole apartment on your own! Ask your friends and family for some assistance to cover multiple rooms at once so you can get done faster, and also have the benefit of additional sets of eyes to help you find things that you otherwise would have missed.

Use These Helpful Products

There are a handful of products we’ve seen help our tenants in the past clean their apartment easier and faster.

Murphy's Oil Soap

Use this with water for cleaning wood surfaces such as cabinets or doors.

CLR

This helps to remove hard water stains in sinks, drains, toilets, or faucets.

Scrubbing Bubbles

When the soap scum in your apartment won’t come off on your shower door, tub, or sink, use scrubbing bubbles!

Windex

This can be used to clean the outside of appliances, mirrors, windows, or to shine any chrome fixtures or faucets.

Cerama-Bryte

Smooth cooktops require non-abrasive products, and cerama-bryte or a similar product helps remove food residue and grime off any glass, ceramic cooktop.

Magic Erasers

This product is great for cleaning refrigerators, shelves, dishwasher seals, and built up surfaces.

Contact Hunziker Property Management

We wish you the best of luck in your cleaning endeavor! If you need more information on cleaning requirements before you move out, reach out to Hunziker Property Management for assistance!

6 Ways to Make Your Apartment More Study-Friendly

Mon, 22 Apr 2019 05:00:00 GMT

Finals season is upon us and finding the perfect place to study is crucial in helping you feel prepared and confident about your upcoming tests. While some people may prefer studying in libraries with friends or at a coffee shop, some people may want to just buckle down in their own apartment, free from distractions. Here are a few helpful tips from us at Hunziker on ways you can improve your study area in your apartment to help you feel more efficient and focused.

Remove all of Your Potential Distractions

Not many people love studying for tests, so it’s easy to find distractions to pull attention away on what you should be doing. Make an effort to put away or turn off anything that could be distracting like your TV, your phone, etc. Additionally, let your roommates or friends know that you will be spending time in your apartment to study so that you can avoid people interrupting your time.

Create a Dedicated Study Space

Reading a few chapters from your bed or lounging on your couch while working through your study guide may seem harmless at first, but can ultimately prevent you from fully concentrating on your study tasks. It’s important to separate your study space from your sleep, social, and dining spaces. This helps minimize distractions, keeps you focused, and puts your brain into study mode. Choose an area of your apartment that has enough room for you to comfortably sit and lay out all of your study materials. Avoid sitting in areas that can pull your focus away like a living room where you would keep your TV, or near a window with a view out to a busy street.

Declutter and Organize

The last thing you want to have to worry about when you’re studying is finding all of your lost pencils or notebooks. Prepare to study by decluttering and organizing your apartment/study space so that you can be less distracted by mess and find what you’re looking for when you need it. Invest in bookshelves, baskets, or file organizers to help cleanly display your different materials so your space can stay maintained, and you don’t have to waste time hunting down lost items.

Find Furniture That Helps You Focus, Not Relax

It is important to try to use furniture that is comfortable enough to make you feel productive, yet not too comfortable to generate distraction. After all, the goal here is to be productive, not relaxed. Personalize your study space based on your ideal preferences so that it is functional and helps make your study experience a positive one.

Be Selective with Your Background Noise

Putting on some music or white noise while you study is a great way to drown out any other distracting noise so you can put in some productive study time. Be careful about what you choose though. While some music you listen to can help you calm down, relax, boost your mood, etc., your brain may start to focus on the lyrics rather than the study material you have in front of you. Try to stick with classical music, ambient noise, or instrumentals to still get the benefits of nice background noise without the distraction.

Boost Your Lighting

Sometimes, overhead lights do not cut it and when your studying goes into the late hours of the night, you need lighting that can help you concentrate and not fall asleep. Consider a bright desk light or floor lamp to help brighten up your area instead of having to rely solely on the lighting in your apartment.

Find the Perfect Ames Apartment

Whether you’re looking to be right next to campus, or prefer a spot a little farther out near other popular Ames restaurants and shops, Hunziker Property Management has a variety of apartment options for you to choose from. View our property listings and contact us to schedule a tour!

6 Tips for Unpacking and Organizing After a Move

Tue, 08 Jan 2019 20:40:50 GMT

Congratulations on your move, but prepare yourself! Signing your lease is only half the battle. With all the preparation, stress, and running around a move takes, ensuring you have a plan going in about how to stay organized can help you save yourself from some headaches and a messy home when it comes move time.

Write Out a Plan

Like with most overwhelming tasks, writing down how you plan on tackling it can help reduce your worry and show you exactly what you need to do to be successful. Ask yourself questions like:

How many rooms will I have in my new place?
What rooms are most important to me from highest priority to lowest?
Do I have boxes for the move? If not, how many will I need?
Do I have a hard deadline for when my packing needs to be done by?

Once you’re able to answer these, you’ll have a blueprint on how to best start this process.

Make a Realistic Timeline

Everyone wants to be able to wave a magic wand and have everything in its right place but be honest with yourself. How long will it really take you to unpack and organize your home? Do you have a couple days off or a team of friends and family that can help you tackle it over a weekend? Or will you need to stretch your free time over the course of a month to fully move in? Creating a timeline and assigning rooms to specific dates can help you not only space out your tasks, but make sure you have a deadline to stick to.

Determine Your Essentials

For most people, this will start out with your bathroom, bedroom (namely your bed/sheets and clothes), and your kitchen. These are all places you will need to use daily and making sure boxes with these corresponding items are unpacked first will help you avoid having to go without a shower, buying takeout again, or sleeping on the floor. Set aside things you know you will need as soon as you move in for each room.

Common Bathroom Items

Toiletries (toothbrush, toothpaste, hand soap, lotion, shampoo and conditioner, hairbrush, deodorant, hair gel/hairspray)
Shower curtain
Clean bath towels
Toilet paper, plunger, and brush

Common Bedroom Items

Bed, clean sheets, and pillows
Cables for your phone or computer
Clothing for up to a month
Alarm clock
Curtains for windows

Common Kitchen Items

Dishware
Silverware
Glasses
A few pans for cooking
Oven mitts
Dish towels
Groceries

Unpack One Room at a Time

You’re excited to get everything moved in and you just want to dig in, but hold the reins a little bit and work on each room one at a time. Having one room completed and fully moved in is better than having 6 rooms partially done with clutter everywhere. Work your way down your priority list of what rooms need to get done first until everything is done. Follow the plan you made yourself before you moved in, and you’ll be all set!

Hold off on Decorating

Arguably, the most fun part of moving in is when you get to decorate. After all, this is how you can show off your personal taste and is what helps make your new space feel like home. But don’t make this a priority! Focus on placing your furniture in the correct spots, organizing your shelves, hanging up your clothes, and cleaning up before you turn your attention to what wall art you’ll want in your living room. Once you’ve made it through your list, add on those finishing touches and make your place your own!

Search for Apartments in Ames

Hunziker of Ames has a variety of home styles to fit any person’s needs including apartments, townhomes, and more! If you’re ready to start your search, feel free to look at our property listings and contact us with any questions.

Apartment Hunting Tips

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 05:00:00 GMT

Starting your apartment search can be daunting, but it doesn’t have to be! Whether you’re about to move into your first place after a dorm room or are simply moving to a new apartment, it’s a good idea to take these tips to heart. Let’s make your apartment hunt go as smoothly as possible.

Know Your Rental Priorities

First things first: before searching for an apartment, figure out your priorities. For some, a backyard is a necessity. For others, a third floor apartment with a deck is more their style. If you have pets, that’s something you’ll need to consider. Will you need a pool? Make a list the items most important to you before you even start to look for an apartment. It’ll save you time.

Check Online Reviews

If you’re new in town, it can be hard to find the right place to live. Something to think about is checking testimonials and reviews left by others who live or have lived at the apartment complex you’re thinking about. Keep in mind that when it comes to apartments, just as it comes to retail, many people are going to be leaving angry reviews that may not be an accurate depiction of the place. Look for the most realistic reviews and take a look at Google Maps to check out the neighborhood.

Test the Shower

We know. It’s genius. It’s also simple and easy to do. Make sure that water pressure is something you can live with for the duration of your lease. If not, address the issue with management before you move in, so they can tweak it.

Measure for Furniture

Take measurements of your biggest pieces, like your bed, sofa, dresser, and entertainment center. If something isn’t going to fit, but you love the apartment, this allows you time to figure out what to do with the item. Make sure you can get the furniture into the apartment with ease now and save yourself frustration later.

Discuss a Housing Budget with Your Roommate

When you’re moving into a place with a roommate or significant other, you’ll want to make sure you’re on the same page. That means you should discuss the area you’d like to live in and the budget you have going into it. It sounds simple, but when these basic things aren’t discussed, it inevitably leads to problems.

Prepare Rental Application Documents

It’s always helpful to have prints of your pay stubs, contact information of your previous apartment manager or landlord (if applicable), and your credit history. This can expedite the rental application process. Landlords need to know that a potential tenant can make their rent on time and that late payments are not going to become a problem.

Start Your Apartment Search in Ames

From apartments to townhomes, Hunziker has you covered when it comes to finding your home in Ames. If you’re currently looking for a rental or are thinking of making a change, take a look at our property listings today. Feel free to contact us with any questions you may have.

The Pros and Cons of Living Alone

Thu, 02 Aug 2018 05:00:00 GMT

The prospect of living alone can sound enticing; a space all to yourself, total control of your lifestyle when you’re not at work or in class, and more. However, there can also be some downfalls and things to consider about living alone. We weighed the pros and cons for you on apartment living alone in Ames.

Reasons to Live On Your Own

Set Your Own Standards of Cleanliness

Without roommates, there is no compromising on the level of neatness or cleanliness that is expected. If you prefer a more “lived-in” feel for your Ames rental, nobody is there to stop you! If you’re a neat-Nancy, you’re free to sanitize everything at any time without getting in the way.

Don't Bother With Sharing Your Stuff

If it’s hard for you to share your belongings for fear of them being broken, misplaced, or stolen, fear no more: everything in your apartment is YOURS. That means that the milk in the fridge, the cup-o-ramen and everything in between is yours—you bought it and you get to eat it. You probably remember the times living in the dorms when you’d come back late at night craving a snack you’d bought earlier only to find that your pesky roommate had devoured it. When you live alone, that will no longer happen!

Decorate to Your Own Taste

Create the space that you want to live in with decorations that suit your personal taste. Without a roommate, you are the only person you need to consult with regarding room aesthetics. Whether you prefer classic movie posters or tasteful home decor from Target, create your Ames apartment aesthetic on your own terms.

No Coordination and Extra Stuff

Renting in Ames and moving in with your friends has its drawbacks. Sometimes it can be confusing and frustrating to move in with a roommate and realize you have an excessive amount of couches, multiple microwaves, and more kitchen utensils than you will ever need. Eliminate the need to coordinate when you live alone!

Reasons to Not Live On Your Own

More Expenses, Less Balance

Without a roommate to split your Ames apartment rent and utilities with, you end up paying more each month on your own. Be sure to assess your ability to afford the extra costs! Typically, one-bedroom apartments come with more expensive rent than sharing a two-bedroom. You also have to think about paying for heating, cooling, trash, water, and internet.

Alone, or Lonely?

Despite the many benefits of living on your own and making your own decisions, you may want to consider whether or not you will miss the built-in social interaction with a roommate. Make sure you don’t find yourself lonely and alone with Netflix and your houseplants week after week.

Solitude Calls for Extra Safety Measures

Safety and security become even more important when you’re living on your own. Be careful to check your locks, and gain some camaraderie with the neighbors in case you ever need their help. Also, be sure to use caution and maintain awareness of your surroundings if you are coming and going after dark.

Everything Falls on You

When you live by yourself, the responsibilities to pay bills, answer to your landlord, and maintain the property falls on you. If you don’t have time or resources to handle this on your own, you may consider finding a roommate.

Deciding whether or not to live in your own Ames apartment rental is more than just weighing your preferences. Before you sign a lone lease, be sure to seriously consider all of the risks, benefits, and logistics of living on your own. Regardless of your preference to rent with a roommate or by yourself in Ames, Hunziker Property Management has rental units to fit various needs.

How to Make Moving Easier

Tue, 03 Jul 2018 05:00:00 GMT

Ideally, you know when a move to a different home is coming up months in advance. If you’re done with school and will be moving out of your college apartment or simply moving to a new place because it’s time, saving money by moving yourself is a great option. However, there are ways to make your move easier, faster, and more cost-effective. Plus, if you can manage to save time and money, you’ll also save yourself—and the friends helping you move—some headaches. Follow these tips and thank us later.

Declutter and Purge Before Packing

It’s easy to procrastinate a move and it’s understandable. It can take a lot of time, it’s stressful, and sometimes a bummer if you’re moving from a place where you have great memories. Still, you’ll save yourself a lot of misery if you start to declutter before packing and get rid of things you don’t need or use anymore. Try to start this around two months before your scheduled move. This way, you’ll have fewer things to haul—literally lightening your load.

Gather Your Moving Boxes

Most people don’t have spare boxes on hand, let alone bubble wrap, moving blankets, etc. About a month before your move, start to get these things ready. Take a look at what you have in your home and make note of fragile items, so you have a good idea of how much bubble wrap to purchase. Before you go out and buy cardboard boxes, ask friends and family if they have any spares or share the request on Facebook. You’d be surprised how many people may have recently moved and have extra boxes to give away.

Pack Non-Essentials

If you’re moving in the summer, you won’t need your winter or fall clothes out and vise versa. Put those in boxes so they’re ready to go. The same goes for any other non-essential items. Books you’re not currently reading, extra blankets, picture frames, and more can go into boxes as well.

Label Your Boxes

When the items that belong in your kitchen are in boxes with labeled “Kitchen,” your move will go much more smoothly. This way, you’ll know where your pots, pans, silverware, etc. is right away when you head to your new place. Plus, when moving the boxes into your new home, you and your friends will know where to put each box. Organization feels so good!

Moving Truck vs. Your Own Vehicle

Depending on your budget (and your schedule), you may decide to rent a moving truck. These can be huge time savers, because they save you from making multiple trips back and forth. Plus, when renting a moving truck, you often have the option of renting dollies and moving blankets. They also typically come with tie-downs, to secure your larger items. If this option is for you, be sure to call the moving company as much in advance to ensure they have a truck available.

On the other hand, if you’re okay with making several trips or trying to get more people to help you move, using your own personal vehicles could work. Just make sure you know someone with a truck, for your larger items.

After the Move

Once you’ve moved into your home and the movers or your friends are gone, be sure to take a look at your new place. Make sure everything is there and nothing was forgotten or damaged in the move.

New Tenants of Hunziker Property Management

If you’ve recently moved into one of our properties, you’ll want to be sure to have information on general maintenance , just in case you have any questions about your new home. You could also benefit from our five-step move-in process , to make the move that much easier. Now all you have to do is unpack and enjoy life in your new place!

What to Do When You're Locked Out

Mon, 11 Jun 2018 05:00:00 GMT

It’s happened to everyone. You get home after class or work, reach for your keys, and they’re not there. After frantically checking every pocket or dumping the contents of your purse onto the floor to search for them, you remember that you left your keys on the kitchen counter. The good news is, you know right where they are. The bad news is, you’re officially locked out. Now what?

Locking yourself out of your apartment is one of the most frustrating feelings ever. If you know right where you left them, you’re annoyed with yourself for forgetting them. If you’re not sure where they are, you’re also worried they’re in the hands of the wrong person. Regardless, now you just need to know what to do. Here are some steps you can take to get back inside your apartment:

Call Your Roommate

If you’re one of the lucky people who live with a roommate, be sure to have all of their contact numbers in your phone. Sure, you have their cell phone number, but if they’re at work and unable to check their phone, you’ll want their work number, too. Hopefully your roommate is nearby and can swing by the apartment to let you in.

Contact Your Landlord

It’s never fun to have to call your landlord to let you into your own home, but that’s part of being a landlord. If it’s during business hours, your landlord should be able to swing by and let you in quickly. After hours, this may take a bit longer, so be prepared to wait or find another way into your place. If you’re a Hunziker resident, keep our property management’s contact information in your phone, just in case.

Find Another Entrance

This is the time to think like a burglar. It’s not ideal, but in an emergency situation, it might mean you get into your apartment faster. If you typically leave a window unlocked and it’s easily accessible, now is the time to try it. Be careful, though! Don’t go climbing up walls or other people’s decks. Never risk an injury just to get into your place faster.

Call a Locksmith

Contacting a locksmith is typically the last resort when you’re locked out of your home. If it comes to that, though, remember that if the locksmith must damage any part of the building to let you into your apartment, the bill will be sent to you. Also, if you’re locked out of the entire building and not only your apartment, the locksmith may not be able to let you in without permission from the landlord. Most locksmiths will also want to be paid on the spot, so be sure you’re ready to pay on the spot. It’s a good idea to do some research about the most reliable locksmiths in your area and save their contact info, just in case.

Prevent Lockouts

The best way to handle a lockout is to, of course, prevent it from happening in the first place. Making a copy of your key and giving it to a trusted friend or relative that lives nearby is always a good option. You could even place a spare key inside your cell phone case. You’re more likely to have your phone on you at all times than anything else! A (nearly) foolproof way of preventing a lockout from happening is to get into the habit of unlocking your door on your way out, then locking it once you’ve closed it from the outside. That way, even if you forget your keys inside, the door is already unlocked.

Six Tips for Maximizing Space in Your Apartment

Thu, 03 May 2018 05:00:00 GMT

Smaller apartments can offer many advantages like being in a great location and saving you money on rent each month. However, one sacrifice that has to be made to get those advantages is not having a lot of room. While it may seem hard to feel like you have enough space to comfortably live and entertain guests when they come over, following some of these tips can help make sure your space is properly utilized so you can feel proud of your Ames apartment.

Declutter

You’ve probably heard this one before, but it is a cardinal rule when it comes to having room in your home. Going through all of your items and identifying what you know you need in your apartment versus what is just taking up space can help create room that was not there before. Get rid of any duplicate things you own or stuff that haven’t been touched or used in a while. In the future, each time you want to purchase something new, think of 2-3 things you would be comfortable parting with to make space.

Get Creative With Storage Options

Trying using as many forms of hidden storage as possible. Use totes or racks to store things under your bed, ottomans or chests in your living room that open for added space, or decorative storage bins that can hold items while still appealing to the eye. Filling this empty space with things that do not need to be seen by you or your guests all the time is a great way to store items without your apartment looking cluttered.

Use Vertical Shelving or Installations on Your Walls

Since you don’t have much room to go out, go up! Using your walls to hang shelving, hooks, or positioning shelving that reaches up towards your ceiling gives off the illusion of more room while also utilizing untouched wall space.

Rotate Clothes by Season

If it’s the middle of August, there is no reason for you to have winter coats, gloves, and boots clogging up your closet space. Before each season begins, make time to go through your closet and remove pieces that you know you will not be using for a couple of months at a time. This will help declutter your closet and remove the overwhelming feeling of having to rummage through all of your clothes in the morning to find something to wear that make sense for the weather.

Find Furniture that Serves Multiple Purposes

Using multifunctional pieces in your home can help you save room and increase the functionality of each area in your apartment. Purchase a couch that can also fold out into a bed for when guests visit. Use a table in your apartment that can act as a dining space, or a place to work on homework when you aren’t eating. Finding furniture you can use for various activities can help truly maximize the use of that piece.

Less is More

You may think that using multiple pieces of smaller furniture will help you have more space in your place, but oftentimes that can take up more room than just having a larger piece of furniture. For example, instead of multiple chairs and a loveseat, purchase one large couch. Consolidate multiple shelves and bookcases and just use one large bookcase instead to show off books, knick-knacks, and more.

Hopefully, these suggestions will help you fully use the space your unit has to offer. Do you have any other tips on how you’ve maximized space in your apartment? Share them with us on our Facebook or Instagram !

Moving Tips: A Packing Timeline

Sun, 01 Apr 2018 05:00:00 GMT

Congratulations! Moving to a new place is always an exciting and refreshing start. However, cleaning out and packing up all of your stuff can be a daunting process. Don’t get too overwhelmed, Hunziker Property Management has some moving tips to help your packing go by smoothly and quickly so you can spend more time getting excited for your new place to live in Ames , and less time stressing about your old one.

One Month Before the Move

Organization is Key

There is a lot that goes into moving from one place to the next, so be proactive and use a folder or notebook to keep any important information related to your move in one convenient place.

Choose What to Keep, Discard, or Donate

This is the perfect time to start going through your clothes and other items you may have been collecting during the duration of your time at your current establishment and decide what needs to be thrown away, what can get donated, or what you plan on taking with you. This helps declutter your space, and gives you less to move!

Notify Your Landlord and Utilities Company

If you are moving from a rental, it is important to notify your landlord, and have a discussion about how/when you can get your security deposit check back. You should also contact your utilities company to cancel your current service and set up a new one for where you will be moving to.

Get Packing Materials and Start With Non-Essentials

Ask friends who have recently moved if they have any spare boxes or packing tape, or purchase some and start using these to begin packing items that you know you won’t really need within the next month. This can include things like clothes that are out of season, kitchen utensils you don’t often use, or books, movies, and games. Getting this out of the way now leaves less for you to have to pack down the road.

2 Weeks Before the Move

Pack, Pack, and Pack Some More

This is definitely the most time consuming part of your move, but the most important. Go room by room and pack things that are similar together in the same box. Be sure to label each box with the room it goes in, along with a short description of the main contents inside.

Set Aside Valuables

There are some things in your residence that are fragile, expensive, or hold sentimental value. Be sure to set these aside from the other items you are moving so that you can make sure you can transport them safely to your next home.

Use Up Food You Don't Want to Take With You

Avoid grocery shopping until your move and try your best to go through your fridge and cupboards and eat the available food there. Throw out any food you do not plan on taking with you.

Complete a Change of Address Form

It’s important to communicate your move to the post office to ensure your mail is getting delivered to the correct location. You can fill out a change of address request here .

1 Week Before the Move

Pack an Essentials Kit

Pack a bag with everything you will need immediately during your move and keep it with you rather than putting it with the rest of your moving boxes. This can include a change of clothes, toiletries, medication, and chargers.

Clean Your Place

To help make sure you have everything, and that you leave your place in good condition, try your best to clean floors, windows, and cabinets to leave it looking great for the next person that gets to call it home.

Confirm Your Moving Date

Check with your new residence, along with anyone that is helping you move, that everyone has the same moving date on their calendar.

1 Day Before the Move

Completely Clean Out Fridge

Dispose of any remaining food or drink items in your fridge and wipe it down to remove any residue that could have been left over from contents you had in it.

Collect Important Documents

Make sure to have any documents related to your move that you think you might need at the ready in case you have to show it to someone or double check information for yourself.

One Final Look Through

You’re almost there! Do one last sweep of your place to make sure everything is clean, and you packed up all the items you want at your new establishment.

Moving Day

You did it! Hopefully with this timeline, you were able to keep your moving process organized and stress-free. Happy moving and good luck at your new home here at Hunziker Property Management .

Spring Cleaning Guide for Your Ames Apartment

Thu, 01 Mar 2018 06:00:00 GMT

With only a few more weeks of winter and the temperatures finally climbing above freezing again, it’s time to clean out your apartment and living space to make it feel fresh again. Over the winter most of us tend to neglect many of our cleaning duties, but over the months, dust, dirt and debris build up, so that by the time March arrives a deep spring cleaning is necessary.

While oftentimes the tasks seem so overwhelming before you begin, if you start in one area and focus on cleaning on thing at a time, your apartment will be looking clean in no time. Here are a few tips from Hunziker Property Management to begin your spring cleaning:

Open Your Windows

Once the weather is heated up, even reaching only 50 degrees, opening the windows will feel amazing. You’re used to the temperatures and wind chills being at or under 0 degrees, so a breezy 50 degree wind giving fresh air in your Ames apartment will seem incredible. You’d be surprised how musty and stale the air in your home gets after the windows are closed for several months. Plus, at those temperatures, you won’t need to keep the windows open for long—ten to fifteen minutes should do the trick.

Put Your Winter Clothes Into Storage

For the last several months, you’ve probably been wearing as many sweaters, beanies and ankle warmers as possible. Now, if you wore those, you would start to sweat instantly. Why not pack up all your winter clothes and put them in a tote or XL ziploc bag to put away until next winter? Once they’re all put together, you can either store them in your closet, a garage or a storage unit if you and your roommates are renting one.

Once that clears some space up in your closets and dressers, you can break out the spring and summer clothing, especially those workout clothes that you’ve been neglecting for the winter hibernation months!

Clean Out Your Fridge and Other Appliances

Another task that nobody enjoys doing but needs to be done periodically is to clean out your fridge, microwave and oven. In your fridge, probably shoved way to the back, are expired condiments, tupperware containers of leftovers and who knows what else. Plug your nose and dump those out. After you do, you’ll have a cleared out fridge and be much happier with yourself. Another tip is to get a baking powder air freshener both for your fridge and your freezer.

Be sure to clean out your microwave and oven too, since food tends to splatter in those from time to time.

Dust Your Blinds...and the Rest of Your Apartment

With the windows shut all winter, dust tends to build up all over the place—your coffee table, tv stand, night stand and on your blinds too. Take some time to go through every room and remove the dust, which can actually be a health hazard.

There are even some great tools to help you pick up dust, including microfiber cloths and hand-held dusters.

Sweep, Mop, and Vacuum

We’re working our way from top to bottom, and the next step is to clean your floors (you would want to vacuum and then have dust fall on the floor). In the kitchen and bathroom, or anywhere that you have tile or hardwood floors, sweep the entire area first. Then, use a mop or swiffer to really get the area clean. For any carpeted area, invest in a vacuum. While it may be one of your first adult purchases, it’s definitely worth it!

Have You Renewed Your Lease?

Although we sent out our renewal notices several weeks ago, we love it when our tenants renew their leases with us. If you have any questions or concerns about your lease, please don’t hesitate to contact us , and we’ll talk about your apartment in Ames with you.

7 Best Practices for Moving in the Winter Months

Thu, 01 Feb 2018 06:00:00 GMT

Moving in the winter is not always ideal and can make transporting your life and belongings from one place to another an even harder and more tedious process than usual. However, with these tips and best practices for baring with the ice, snow and dreary weather, Hunziker Properties hopes to point you in the right direction and set you up for success.

Turn Up the Heat

The staff and property managers at Hunziker Properties guarantee well-maintained properties upon moving in, but unfortunately that is not always the case with every landlord. Before you move in, confirm with your landlord that the heat has been running throughout the vacancy of the property. This will ensure that you don’t run into any frozen or bursting pipe problems during the first week of your tenancy.

If it happens that the landlord or the previous tenants turned the heat off, request that the heat be turned on as soon as possible. If needed, request for a maintenance technician to come and inspect the heating system and the pipes.

Ask About Winter Pests

You’ve been proactive about signing the new lease before anyone else could, so the last thing you need is to find that little winter pests have moved in before you. Pests ranging from mice, to voles, to ladybugs are potential creatures that you could find “hibernating”’ in your new home. Although Hunziker stays on top of the business of keeping these pests out, it’s a good idea to ask your new/future landlord to do a pest check. If you are moving into an older house or apartment (especially on a ground floor), it may even be a good idea to request that a pest control service does a once-over.

Gather a Team

Apart from the pesky tasks and details of doing a little pre-move-in maintenance, you will of course want to be prepared for move-in day! While there’s no guarantee that your moving day will be free of bitter winds, blowing snow, or bone-chilling temperatures, you can make sure you only have to brave the elements for the least possible amount of time. This is what friends are for!

With the help of your knitting club, large family, small group, or social posse, you can maximize your move-in day. The old saying, “Teamwork makes the Dream (house) Work” goes a long way. Promise your friends pizza in exchange for their labor, and celebrate your first night in your new home sitting on the unfurnished floor with the people who went out of their way to lend a hand. Using friends’ vehicles to create a moving caravan also helps to save money on the opportunity cost of renting a truck!

Be Prepared, Bundle Up

Once you’ve gathered your moving crew, be sure that you and the rest of the team is properly dressed for moving in. Things like gloves and sturdy boots are always an essential for lifting heavy loads, but in the Winter months you will also want to make sure your crew is outfitted in coats, hats, and maybe even some ice shoe cleats to prevent potentially dangerous falls.

Don't Smooth Things Over

While you want your moving day to go smoothly, things like slick ice and snow on your path you will want to break up. If your landlord is unable to get ice or snow removed prior to your move-in day, be sure to keep a couple of shovels handy to clear a path for safe shuffling of your possessions.

Packing Your Possessions

In a summer move it is convenient to toss miscellaneous or hard-to-package items in the backseat of your car or truck, and to carry them into your new place the same way they left your old place. All is well if you drop a pillow in the grass during the dry summer months, but pillows will be lost and permanently damaged if dropped into a pile of winter slush. A good alternative to leaving out those awkwardly-shaped items is to place them in a big trash bag. Don’t increase the cost of moving by creating possible needs to replace your possessions.

Move Now, Clean Later

Although it may be tempting to want to clean your new floors before moving in, resist the urge to do so during a winter move. Slushy and muddy puddles of melted winter elements are sure to create dirty footprints as you move things in. Let your moving crew do the tracking in that is necessary and resolve to cleaning once all is finished. Alternatively, put some towels or cardboard down in the entrance area to soak up the majority of the dirt and water from the get-go.

Find Your New Apartment in Ames Today

While it may not be ideal to pack up and move in the middle of winter, Hunziker Property Management has the right units for you. We typically have several units ready to move into immediately, and other units that can be subleased. Browse our properties page today to find the right fit for you.

What to Do Before Leaving Your Apartment for Vacation

Wed, 10 Jan 2018 06:00:00 GMT

Getting ready to go on a vacation is an extremely exciting time! However, it’s easy to get lost in that excitement and forget about some important things you should take care of before you leave. Here are some tips for things you can do to your apartment to ensure you have a relaxing, stress-free excursion.

Clean Up Your Place

No one wants to come back from a trip to a messy home! Eat or toss out any food that will go bad while you’re away, run your garbage disposal, take out the trash and do your laundry. This will help to make sure you don’t have a smelly apartment or piles clothes upon your return. Future you will be thankful!

Check On Your Car

If you’re not taking your car with you and plan on leaving it at your apartment, go through a checklist to take care of it before you leave. Remove all valuables from your car, check that all of your windows are shut, and lock your doors. Move it to an area of the lot that is somewhat out of the way to avoid it interfering with other people and cars.

Prepay Your Bills and Hold Your Mail

Make sure any bills that could be due while you’re gone are paid ahead of time so that it can be one less thing you have to worry about while you’re away. Also, contact your local post office and ask them to hold your mail for you for free. Once you come back from your trip, you can pick up your mail from the post office without having to deal with an extremely stuffed mailbox.

Save Energy

There are different ways you can go about saving some money and energy in your apartment while on vacation. The first is by unplugging electronics while not in use. Even if they are turned off, things like your television, computer, or alarm clock can use up energy while plugged in. Next, adjust your thermostat slightly up or down depending on the season to reduce costs. In the winter, feel free to turn down your thermostat a few degrees while your apartment is vacant, but make sure to keep it on so the pipes don’t freeze!

Arrange for Pet Care

Are you planning on leaving your furry friend at home while you’re on vacation? Drop your pet off at a friend or family’s place, or take it to a pet boarding facility. Make sure you write out instructions for whoever is caring for the animal with information such as how to feed them, any medications they’re on, and other advice to help the caretaker ensure they are doing everything they can to keep your pet happy and healthy.

Have Someone You Trust Check Up on Your Place

Instead of worrying whether or not you turned things off and locked your place before you left, have a trusted neighbor, friend or family member check in on your apartment. A dark empty place is very enticing to burglars, so by having someone in there for a little bit each day, you can help deter the possibility of a robbery. Not to mention, they can water your plants for you!

Do One Last Look Through

Right before you head out on your trip, examine your place one last time to make sure it’s all ready for you to leave. Shut the blinds on your window so people can’t see in, make sure things are unplugged, everything is clean, and lastly, lock your door. Taking these extra minutes to do this will save you hours of worry later on while you’re supposed to be having fun.

Now that you’ve done all the work for preparing your place while you’re gone, enjoy your travels! Do you have any other things you make sure to do before leaving your apartment for awhile? Let us know on Facebook !

Six Things to Coordinate With Your Roommate After You Sign the Lease on a New Apartment

Wed, 13 Dec 2017 06:00:00 GMT

So you just signed the lease on a new apartment in Ames with a couple friends - now what? Here are a few items to add to your checklist to make your move go smoothly:

1. Who Is Bringing What?

Avoid doubling up on larger items like living room furniture and large kitchen appliances by communicating with your roommate what you are planning on bringing to the new apartment. This is a great time to bring up items you would like to bring with you that will occupy common space. (Bonus: the fewer items for you to transport is always a win!)

2. Keep Track of Still-Needed Items

Chances are there will still be a few functional items you will need to start out apartment life on the right foot. Make a list of all desired items and prioritize which you’d like to purchase first! Then, mark the item off the list when purchased.

3. Decide What Costs Will Be Split

Rent isn’t the only cost to consider splitting with your roommate. Before you move in, talk about what costs you’d be willing to share - things like paper products, cleaning supplies, and streaming services are a good start! This is also a good time to bring up things you definitely don’t feel comfortable splitting or sharing.

4. Who Will Be the Primary Contact?

Designate one roommate to be the main point of contact for your landlord and apartment complex. This will help keep all messages in the same place so there’s a lower chance important information will get lost.

5. How Will You Divide Apartment Responsibilities?

It’s also a good idea to discuss roommate expectations before you live together. Trust us - it’s better to explain your living habits now rather than being frustrated later. Some questions to ask yourself and your roommate might be: What are your expectations for cleanliness? Are there certain chores you want to make sure get done? Who will do them? Are there things you would feel uncomfortable with that your roommate could possibly do at or bring to the apartment? Answering these questions honestly will help create a space for open communication from the start - a valuable quality in roommates.

6. Coordinate Move-In Schedules

When it gets closer to move-in day, check with your roommate to see what day they’d like to move in. Plan to give them a few hours at the apartment to get their things situated before or after you arrive so that you (and your move-in helpers) aren’t competing for space.

Now you’re ready to move into your new apartment! No matter if you have a great apartment near Iowa State Campus, or a quiet apartment along the CyRide route, Hunziker Property Management congratulates on your new space.

Finding an Apartment in Ames: What to Know

Mon, 30 Oct 2017 05:00:00 GMT

Whether you’re new to Ames, or looking for your first apartment after living in the dorms for a year or two, there are several things that you should know about searching for an apartment in Ames. It is never too early to start looking for apartments for next year, in fact, many of Hunziker Property Management’s units have already been listed for rent for the 2018-2019 school year.

With that in mind, what things should you consider when looking for a place to live in Ames next year?

What Neighborhood in Ames Do I Want to Live In?

The first thing that you should think about is where you want to live. There are many apartments in Ames, but choosing the right neighborhood will determine how happy (or unhappy) you are in your living arrangement next year. Choose wisely, because most property management companies will lock you into a 1-year lease that’s difficult to break.

Apartments Close to Iowa State Campus

One are for you to look for housing next year are apartments near the Iowa State University campus. These units, which are within walking or biking distance to your classes will save you plenty of time over the school year. It’s nice to be able to walk to class within five or ten minutes without needing to wait for a bus. Also, in the winter it is definitely a plus because of the snow and wind. For starters, look at the apartments on Hyland Ave, which is only a block from campus. We’ve also got units on Sheldon, Oakland, Lincoln Way and Mortensen, which are all near campus. Units a little further away, but are well within CyRide distance include the units off North and South Dakota and the Fountainview neighborhoods.

Apartments in Quieter Neighborhoods

If you’re looking for a quieter living experience, Hunziker Property Management has plenty of beautiful apartments in Ames for you too! One of the first areas to look at is the Somerset neighborhood , located just around the corner from several local Ames favorites including The Cafe, El Azteca, and +39. This is a quieter neighborhood, but still only an 8-minute CyRide trip to campus. Another nice and quiet neighborhood is nearby, just north of Bloomington, while another great area is near the North Grand Mall.

What Activities Do You Enjoy?

If browsing by neighborhood isn’t quite narrowing down the search for you, consider a few other things—what do you want to do outside of your apartment? Do you like to watch or play sports? Do you enjoy hiking or biking? Do you travel a lot? These are all questions you should ask yourself, and the answers may help you narrow down your apartment search. If you like hiking or camping, Ledges State Park is in Boone, and maybe an apartment in West Ames is better for you. Do you go to the rec center on campus before or after class? State Gym is only a short walk from the Hyland units. Other units are close to Highway 30, for an easy getaway from Ames. If your activities drive your living location, be sure to choose one near your hobbies.

Contact Hunziker Property Management

If you’re still unsure of what neighborhood you want to live in, feel free to contact our office and we’d be more than happy to find the right spot for you. Also, if you’re still on the fence about an apartment and not sure it’s the right one, read our blog on ways to know if you’re looking at your dream apartment.

5 Ways to Know if an Apartment is Right for You

Fri, 29 Sep 2017 05:00:00 GMT

When you’re searching for a new apartment in Ames, it’s important to keep a few things in mind. You may find a beautiful apartment that quite possibly is your dream apartment, but it happens to be in Boone, only have one bathroom and cost $2,800 per month. That’s not what you were looking for, and that apartment probably is not right for you.

Follow these easy five tips to discern whether or not the apartment you’re looking for is right for you.

Is Your Apartment in a Good Location?

Location, location, location. This statement stands true when searching for an apartment as well. Would you rather be close to your classes or closer to the store? Are you willing to pay a little bit more to be within walking distance of campus, or are you okay taking Cyride to school everyday. These are questions that you’ll need to ask yourself when searching for apartments. Many people prefer to be closer to their school or work, while others prefer to be in a quieter neighborhood like the apartments in Somerset.

How Many Rooms Do You Need?

Another thing to consider is the size of your apartment. How many roommates will you have and how many rooms do you need? Hunziker property management has apartments and houses ranging in size from one-room efficiency studios to entire houses and duplexes.

Bedrooms

When it comes to bedrooms, most people prefer to have their own room. Others, like dating couples and married people can live with one bedroom but also want to have one or two offices with storage. When it comes to bedrooms, find a website like Hunziker’s where you can filter the properties by the amount of rooms to filter out any ones that have too many or too few.

Bathrooms

This same principle goes for bathrooms. Many older houses and apartments often only have one bathroom that acts as both a personal and guest bathroom. This often can become a struggle, especially when sharing that same bathroom with roommates who are all trying to get ready at the same time every morning. Keep this in mind when you’re searching for apartments in Ames, because otherwise it may cause uncomfortable situations in the months to come.

Is It In Your Price Range?

This one is important—only search for apartments that you can afford. Before your apartment search even begins, it’s important for you and your roommate(s) to decide on a budget and price range, so that you’re not stretched too thin for the next year. This also helps you prevent from looking at (and dreaming about) homes that you can’t afford. While we’d all love to live in a 5 bedroom home with a fenced in backyard, for many of us this dream is unfortunately a few years off.

Do You Have Any Amenities?

People love their pets, and even here at Hunziker Property Management, our staff is full of cat and dog lovers. Just like us, you may have the need for special amenities while looking for an apartment to live in. Whether you need a handicap accessible unit, a pet friendly apartment, or a garage to store your car, bikes or camping gear in, you’ll want to find the perfect place to live. It’s best to plan ahead for these things too, for example if you and your boyfriend are planning on getting a pet in the next year, look for a pet friendly home this year. That way, your furry friend will be able to settle into your apartment, and you won’t need to move again next year.

When Can You Move In?

The last important thing to check for when searching for apartments in Ames is when the start and end dates of your new lease are. Will you be able to get moved in before your new job or the semester starts? Do you have a job where you can’t be locked into a 12-month lease? These are all important questions to ask yourself before selecting an apartment and signing the lease. It would be a shame if you selected an apartment that you couldn’t move into until after the semester.

Great! Now that you’ve set the guidelines of the type of apartment you’re looking for in Ames, it’s time to finally start the search. You can browse Hunziker’s property listings for available units and schedule a tour at any of them today. After all is said and done with your lease signed and roommates selected, you can then start to dream about how you’re going to decorate your perfect apartment!

Tips for Apartment-Friendly Decorating

Wed, 23 Aug 2017 05:00:00 GMT

What a great feeling it is to have a place to call your own! However, it takes a lot of work to make your new apartment really feel like your home. Whatever your style, it is important that your new space suits you and is reflective of your personality. Living in an apartment means that your decorating ideas have to be temporary and it can be difficult to find the right balance between what you want and what your apartment allows. Here are some apartment decorating solutions that will keep both you and your landlord happy!

Can't Paint the Walls?

There are many other ways to add splashes of color or patterns to your new place without painting walls. One is a wall decal , which is essentially a large wall sticker that can be anything from faux wallpaper to a quote you like. You can also use tapestries to help bring color to a wall and cover a large amount of space. If you still want to add color and are open to not touching the walls, finding colorful furniture , rugs , or curtains can help brighten the space and add whatever aesthetic you are going for.

Want to Avoid Putting Holes in the Wall?

While using nails to hang up pictures, shelves, and frames is normally allowed in most apartments, there is often a cost for replacing those holes when it comes time for you to move out. Instead of securing a shelf on the wall, find leaning or standing shelves . Without taking up a lot of space, these shelves can still hold and show off statement items, books, candles, etc. in your home. For pictures and frames, try opting out for adhesive hooks, picture tack, or washi tape , which is a colored adhesive tape that some people even use to make designs on their walls.

Get Some House Plants

One of the easiest decorations that you can add into your apartment is a variety of houseplants. They bring color and fresh oxygen into your home usually without taking up too much space. There are hundreds of different house plants that are good for a variety of spaces ranging from full-sun plants to plants that require little water. If you’re a low-maintenance type of person, you can certainly find some succulents that only need to be watered once a week, or even less. Another idea is to have an edible houseplants of herbs, such as parsley, basil or oregano.

In Ames, there are many garden centers or plant stores, including Ace Hardware , Lowe's and Holub Greenhouses , while Hy-Vee and other grocery stores often have plants as well.

Don't Have a Lot of Storage?

One of the biggest problems people face when living in an apartment is where to find room to pack away all of their belongings without cluttering their apartment. One way to utilize space is to find storage boxes that can slide underneath your bed. This is a good place for things like holiday decorations or out of season clothes that you will not need for an extended period of time. Another option is to use decorative storage boxes . These boxes are able to hold items you need without being an eyesore by matching the patterns or color schemes displayed throughout your apartment. You could also hang shoes, belts, or jewelry in a storage rack behind a door. This helps to remove a lot of items that would take up space in your closet.

We wish you the best of luck with decorating your new home. Having any good apartment decorating suggestions? Feel free to share them with us!

How to Find a Compatible Roommate

Fri, 28 Jul 2017 05:00:00 GMT

Finding the perfect apartment to rent is just half the battle of apartment hunting. Just as important, is finding the right person to be your roommate. Choosing who to share a living space with is a big decision. Even couples who have been dating for years are still apprehensive to room together, because they want to make certain that they can share a place and still tolerate each other by the end of the lease, and it can be even more daunting if your new roommate is someone you just met.

Here are a couple suggestions of steps you can take to ensure that you find the right roommate for you!

Room With Someone You Already Know

Whether it is a close friend or just an acquaintance, rooming with someone you are familiar with is a good starting point in the roommate search. Maybe you met someone you really clicked with during the first semester in the dorms, or maybe you’ve been in a club with someone for years. Personal interactions or referrals from mutual friends validate the reputation of the person in question and decide if you should consider them as an option. Other people decide to live with a sibling, their best friend or their sorority sister or fraternity brother. Oftentimes asking one of these close friends or family members is easier and less stressful than finding someone who you don’t know.

Use Roommate Matching Apps

If you plan on trying to move in with someone new, consider using a roommate matching site like roommates.com that let you look at different roommate listings in your area. There are also good apps like roomiematch that require you to fill out a questionnaire about what your expectations and needs are, and the app then has real people review the profiles and determine who is a good match for you.

It helps that you have things in common before moving in with someone. This will help out in the first several weeks of living together to be able to hang out and get to know each other.

Start Searching Ahead of Time

Having to room with someone you don’t like or don’t know very well out of desperation of needing a second person to pay the rent is not an ideal situation. Be proactive and give yourself ample time to search for the right person and make a decision you can be confident in.

The best time to start looking for an apartment in Ames is during winter break or right at the beginning of the second semester. By the time you start looking, you should probably already know who you want to live with. This way, you can schedule apartment tours together and make the decision together.

Be Honest About What You're Looking For

Are you a person who enjoys waking up early in the morning to drink some coffee and read a book before you get your day started? Or are you a person who stays up till the early morning hours binge watching The Office and sleeping in the next day? Maybe you’re the type of person who needs to keep their living space nice and tidy, or you’re a person who doesn’t mind their room being messy.

Make sure you find someone who is like you in these aspects so there will not be any personality conflicts. Be upfront with your expectations and make sure your future roommate has similar personality traits so that three months into living with each other, there will not be any surprises.

Go For a "Test Drive"

Just like you wouldn’t buy a car having never tested it before, or move into an apartment you’ve never walked through, set aside time to meet with a potential roommate in person to see if you connect well. They may sound good on paper, but spending time with them will allow you to see if this is a relationship you can get excited about, or if you feel like it won’t work out.

Hunziker Property Management Ames

Now that you know how to find the right roommate for you, the next step will be to find a place to call home. Browse our listings to find your new apartment today!

Move-Out Week: What to Know and How to Prepare

Fri, 14 Jul 2017 05:00:00 GMT

With Ames’ notorious move-out week quickly approaching, it’s good to prepare in advance for the stressful and fast-paced actions of the week. There are many things you can do to prepare your apartment in advance, while other things are done the day-of. Follow these tips offered by Hunziker Property Management to avoid the rush and make sure that you don’t wait until the last minute to move out.

Pack Up

The first thing you must do when it comes to move-out week is to organize and sort through your things. Most of us have many things that you can pack away or store days or weeks in advance, while there are a few items that will need to remain accessible for the last couple days. Things that you can definitely pack up beforehand include things like winter clothes, decorations, books & movies, and some dishes.

It might not hurt to take inventory of all of your items before you start any packing. Make a list of all of your belongings and then rank them by things you won’t need for months to things that you need the day of moving out. You’ll probably want to keep a few dishes handy, your bed and a few electronics. This way, once they’re on a list, it will be easy to start packing things away one day at a time.

Eat All of Your Food

It is a lot easier to move and clean your apartment if you don’t need to either bring or throw out pounds of heavy food. Plan ahead for the last couple of months of your lease and begin eating all the food in your house. Try to finish everything from your freezer first, because those things are incredibly difficult to move in the heat of the summer. Also go through your cupboards and try to reduce the cans and sauces that you have, as these would just take more heavy boxes to move. If you have leftover unopened non-perishables, consider donating them to one of the several food banks in Ames, but make sure the food isn’t expired first.

Clean

Now that most of your items have either been packed (or eaten in the case of your food), it’s time to begin your deep clean of your apartment. We find it is easiest to clean one room at a time and then completely shut off that room. For example, you may clean the bedrooms first, then the living room, then the kitchen and the bathroom last, because you likely will not need the rooms in that order. We’ve got easy to follow instructions and numbers of the people at Hunziker to contact if you have questions.

Move-Out Form

At Hunziker, we have an online and easily printable move-out form . This has all the information you would need to prepare your apartment to move out, including what we’ll be looking at when doing the move-out inspection. We highly recommend following the details on this form, because if you miss something, you may be liable for any extra cleaning that our maintenance staff needs to do after you move out.

Clean the Carpet

Your carpets were professionally cleaned using the extraction method prior to your move-in date. You are required to leave them in the same condition, less normal wear and tear. A receipt for carpet cleaning using the extraction method, shown at the time of your move-out inspection, would meet that obligation.

Failure to have carpets “clean” by your move-out inspection date may result in delays in occupancy for new tenants moving in. You will be liable for damages directly resulting from delays in getting the carpets cleaned.

Carpet cleaners recommended are:

Avoid the Rush

Nobody likes to rush and be stressed the week of moving out. Plan ahead and stay in front of all the chores and cleaning that you’ll need to do. If you follow these instructions and make a list of all the things that need to be completed before moving out, you’ll have no trouble finishing on time. And once everything is complete and you hand your keys back into Hunziker, you can relax and sigh a breath of relief and enjoy the rest of summer.

7 Ways to Make Your Apartment Feel Like Home

Fri, 16 Jun 2017 05:00:00 GMT

A new space can take a little bit of time to get used to. Whether this is your first apartment, or simply a new space to you, here are some ways to start making it feel like home in no time!

1. Give it a Clean

Give your space a little refresh before you start arranging your belongings. Even if you’re just moving in, often times you like things to be cleaned the way you’re used to them being clean. Were the floors not cleaned with your favorite Swiffer scent or does the bathroom smell like ‘mystical garden,’ even though your favorite smell is ‘paradise flowers?’ Your new space will already be fairly clean, but take a few moments to personalize the cleanliness, so that it feels more like your place. Plus, it will also let you get to know the layout of your new home.

2. Set Up Your Bedroom

Even if it’s just a mattress on the floor, having a place to call your own to sleep will set your mind at ease. Bonus points for washing your sheets in a familiar detergent that smells like home. Also, unpacking and organizing all your clothes and outfits will really make it easier to get ready on the first day of class or work.

3. Prioritize What Decor is Important to You

What were your favorite parts about the last place you lived? Maybe for you home is having a comfy living room to kick back and watch TV. Maybe you like to cook, so setting up the kitchen is a priority. Or, maybe you have a certain color scheme you want to try. Whatever it is, start there and let the rest fall into place.

4. Get the Lighting Just Right

Overhead lighting is often be harsh and can throw off the mood of the room. Try setting up a few lamps to add a softer look. Fairy lights can also create a homey feel. You can also draw attention to areas with natural light to make your space feel larger. Finally, don’t forget curtains on your windows for privacy!

5. Add Something Personal

Once you have your larger items set up, start adding smaller sentimental items. Family photos, collected knick-knacks, signature scents, and cozy touches like blankets, pillows, and rugs give your new space a personal touch. Don’t wait too long! These items will serve you and your space better out on display than in a cardboard box.

6. Make a Nice Dinner

After all that hard work, you deserve a nice meal. Pick one of your favorite dinners and stay in for the night to enjoy. Success! Your apartment now smells like one of your favorite foods and your stomach is happy. Win-win. After dinner, treat yourself to some homemade cookies.

7. Have Your Friends Over

Last but not least, invite friends over and celebrate your cozy space! A potluck is a great way to ease the burden of doing all the cooking, so that each of your friends brings a dish to share. New to the area? This is a great way to meet your neighbors. Chances are they are looking to meet people, too.

What's the Best Time of Year to Search for an Apartment

Wed, 17 May 2017 05:00:00 GMT

Whether you’re searching for your first apartment after living in the dorms for a year, or you’re just looking for something new, you should plan ahead with your search to be efficient. Use the following guide to time your apartment hunt.

6 to 8 Months Before Move-In

Several months before you move, you’ll need to determine several things. First, you need to find out who your are roommates going to be. Do you just want one roommate or multiple.

What part of Ames do you want to live in? There are several apartments near campus, or there are others farther away, but are still close to a Cyride Stop.

What is your budget? If you need help determining a budget, you may want to review our tips for first-time renters .

3 to 5 Months Before Move-In

Once you and your future roommates have decided what part of town you want to live in, and have a budget range, it’s time to start scheduling tours. This gives you enough time to see many different apartments for rent in Ames, which can be tough to schedule with your different schedules. Many Ames property management companies, including Hunziker, allow you to contact the rental offices online , making it very easy to schedule a tour.

3 Months Before Move-In

After touring all the apartments that you and your roommates are interested in, it’s time to sign the lease. Call your property management office today for help filling out the rental application, or if you rent with Hunziker Property Management, you can apply online now .

30 Days Before Move-In

Now that you’ve signed your lease, it’s time for you and your roommates to decide who will live in which room. Also, it’s good to figure out who is going to bring the shared items for the kitchen and living rooms. You need a couch, but you don’t need three. It’s a good idea to sit down with your roommates and to make a list of all the things that you’re bringing, and then to start packing. Move-in day will be here before you know it.

One Week Before Move-In

Everything should be pretty much packed and ready to go at this point. If you’re moving out of an existing apartment, start cleaning today so that you’re not overwhelmed with moving and cleaning next week. If you have any remaining questions about your new apartment, be sure to give your property management company a call .

Spring Cleaning Your Ames Apartment

Tue, 21 Mar 2017 05:00:00 GMT

Daylight savings time came and went, and spring has arrived. Find a day or two this spring and take the time to clean your apartment. Follow our tips for a successful spring cleaning session.

Clean Windows and Walls

Windows

Walls

Dust the Entire Apartment

Change Bedding

If you have winter or flannel sheets on your bed, spring cleaning can be the best time to get out that summer, lighter set of sheets. Be sure to wash both your winter and summer sets of sheets!

Deep Clean Your Bathrooms

Disinfect your shower, toilet, and sink thoroughly. You don’t want to know how many germs live here!

Shower

Put white vinegar in a plastic grocery bag and tie it in place to your shower head for it to soak overnight. Remove it in the morning, and rinse by running the water.

Clean the tub or shower with an all-purpose or bathroom cleaner. Let it sit for about 20 minutes and then scrub clean!

Toilet

Sink

Use an all-purpose disinfectant cleaner to spray down the vanity area including the sink, faucets, and countertops; then wipe with a clean cloth.

Organize Your Closet

Have I worn this recently?
Does it fit?
Is it in good condition?

Once you have decided on what stays and what goes, you can organize your closet by season, by clothing type, or by how often you wear certain clothes.

Spring Cleaning Could Help with Move Out Tasks

You’ll need to clean your apartment when you move out, so why not get a head start on it by deep cleaning it this spring! Have any good cleaning tips? Feel free to share them with us!

How to Reduce Your Heating Bills This Winter

Mon, 13 Feb 2017 06:00:00 GMT

We’re well into winter in Ames, Iowa, and you have received your first electric and gas bill from your first full month of using heat. With record low temperatures in Ames this past December, you may have been more inclined to increase the temperature of your apartment and were surprised by the number on your heating bill last month. To avoid expensive heating bills, follow our tips on how to reduce costs on your next month’s heating bill.

Use a Space Heater or Electric Blanket

If you have access to a space heater or electric blanket, use it while you are at home to keep yourself warm. Lowering the thermostat a couple of degrees and bundling up with a sweatshirt, space heater or electric blanket is an easy way to save some money on your next heating bill this winter in Ames.

Lower the Thermostat When Gone for Long Periods of Time

Whether you work 9-5 or if you have classes to attend at Iowa State University during the day, lowering your thermostat when you know you’re going to be gone for a couple of hours can save you money. Running your thermostat 10-15 degrees less during the day can save you up to 10% on your winter heating bills.

Install Thick Curtains

If your apartment landlord allows, install thick curtains to cover your bedroom and living room windows. A thick layer of fabric can trap the heat inside during cold winter days. Dark curtains with thermal lining are made to protect a home during harsh winters.

Inspect Windows & Doors for Air Movement

Patio doors and windows are primary culprits of letting cold air into your heated apartment. Be sure to inspect around the seals of your doors and windows for any cold air that might be coming in from outside. The heat in your apartment might also be escaping through window cracks and crevices.

Cover Windows with Window Film

Window-sealing kits that include double-sided tape and shrinkable plastic are available at most local hardware stores such as Lowes, Home Depot, and Menards. Follow these step-by-step instructions to install window film on your windows properly and keep the cold out!

Apply Weather Stripping

A V-strip or tension seal is suitable for the sides of a double-hung or sliding window or on the top and sides of a door. A V-strip weather strip is easy to install as it uses an adhesive. Apply easily around a door or window sash. Windows can open and shut even with the V-seal in place.

Cover Cracks with Caulk

Windows with cracks around window frames can be expected to allow cold air in and warm air to escape. Caulk is an inexpensive method to cover those cracks and keep your apartment warm while saving you money on your heating bills.

Maintenance at Hunziker Propert Management in Ames

Visit our maintenance information page to view our guidelines during the winter months which cover your furnace, windows in the winter, and other miscellaneous maintenance guidelines. Hunziker’s prides itself on its excellent maintenance staff for being quick to respond and efficient in fixing the problem. If you are experiencing issues at your apartment today, just submit an online request and our maintenance staff will be with you shortly!

How to Unpack and Organize After You Move

Thu, 29 Dec 2016 06:00:00 GMT

If you’re driving through the city of Ames during the month of August, especially near Iowa State University, you’ll most likely see countless moving vans, furniture all over the curbside, and hundreds of residents moving into their new apartments or townhomes. While moving itself is hard work, unpacking can be an even more daunting task. Follow these tips to efficiently unpack and organize all of your belongings so you can begin making your apartment feel more like home.

Submit Your Inspection Form

Before you begin to unpack your items in your apartment, it’s important to remember to fill out your move-in inspection form and return it to your property manager. This will ensure you won’t be charged for items already non-functional upon your move in.

Enlist a Friend's Help

Whether you are moving in with friends or by yourself, moving apartments by yourself can get boring, not to mention challenging. Invite a friend or family member over to help you unpack, move large furniture, or simply keep you company while you unpack!

Unpack Soon After Moving

Remember, unpacking is usually a process and does not have to be completed in a day, but it can be easy to let unpacked boxes sit around your house. Before you know it a year has passed and those same boxes never got touched. To avoid procrastination, set small goals to unpack a little bit everyday and set a timeline to be completely unpacked 2-3 weeks from when you moved in.

Unpack by Room

If you followed our tips for moving out of your apartment blog then hopefully you labeled your boxes and they are now sitting in the correct room in your space. If not, organizing boxes into the rooms they’ll end up in makes it easier to organize your things and minimizes the initial move in clutter. Move through your new apartment and unpack one room at a time. The kitchen might be the most daunting room to unpack, so why not start there! You can tackle rooms day-to-day until finally every room is unpacked.

Reassemble Large Items

Most people have to take apart their bed, living room furniture, and other large objects during their move. You’re most likely going to want to sleep in your new place the first night you get everything moved over, so it’s a good idea to reassemble your bed frame on the first day you begin to unpack. Once you get the large items put together and organized, it makes the rest of the move in process go more smoothly.

Worry About Decorations Later

For most people, unpacking everything you have in boxes before starting with the decorations is the best way to motivated to organize your apartment. Once you have everything unpacked and put away, you can start to plan where the decorations will go since your apartment will most likely have a different layout out than your last place. Plus, decorating is the key to making your new apartment feel like a home.

Unpack Neatly

Unpacking takes time if done the right way. It can be easy to just take things out of boxes and shove them into closets or drawers. If you take the time to figure out where everything needs to go and put it away neatly right when you move in, it will save you more time down the road, and you’ll be able to find what you are looking for more easily.

Enjoy Your New Ames Apartment

Nothing feels better than getting settled into your new place. Have some friends over, kick your feet up and relax; your hard work of moving is complete! If you have any questions or concerns about your Hunziker Property Management apartment or townhome, be sure to contact us promptly at 515-233-4440 .

8 Tips for Moving Out of Your Apartment

Tue, 27 Dec 2016 06:00:00 GMT

Make Arrangements to Get Help Moving

Whether your parents, friends or professionals help you move, plan ahead of time to make arrangements. Since moving entails transferring and lifting heavy materials you’ll most likely need a handful of people to help you. Renting a moving truck can help transfer large items from one place to another without having to rely on other people’s vehicles.

Sell or Donate Unused Clothes and Household Items

A great start to the process of moving is selling or donating items that you haven’t worn or used in the last 6–12 months. You could either stage a garage sale or donate them to the nearest Salvation Army or Goodwill. Donating these items will reduce the amount of stuff you have to move, and in some cases you might end up with extra cash.

Take Photos of the Back of Your Electronics

Your television, computer, internet router, and sound system will be easier to set up when you can reference the pictures you took before packing them up.

Label Each Box by Room

Group your items together by room. For example, put all of the kitchen items in boxes together. Label the boxes by room so when you start unloading you can place each box in the correct room. This will also be helpful when unpacking.

Use Clothes and Towels to Wrap Fragile Items

Fragile items such as your TV, desktop computer, dishware, and other breakable items should be packed with sweatshirts or towels to keep them from scratching or breaking.

Pack an Overnight Bag with Necessities

If you are moving across the city, pack an overnight bag with all of your personal items, including a clean change of clothes. This way you won’t have to dig through piles of boxes, and you’ll be fresh and ready to go.

Use Trash Bags to Move Your Hanging Clothes

Don’t waste time taking clothes off hangers only to unfold and rehang them later. Group together similar clothes and divide them into sections of 10-15 hangers. Use 30 gallon trash bags that have a drawstring. Take the trash bag and make a small hole in the middle of the bottom of the bag. Pull hangers through the hole and pull the trash bag over the clothes. Pull the drawstring on the bottom to secure the clothes. If available, take twisty ties and tie the hangers together. This prevents any hangers from sliding down into the trash bag.

Change Your Address

Visit your local United States Postal Service store to change your address for free. You can also update your address with USPS online or over the phone; however, there is a $1 fee to verify your identity. The USPS keeps a record of your old residential address and will automatically forward mail to your new address for six months.

Moving Out of Your Hunziker Unit

If you have notified us that you will be moving out of your unit, a rental agent may show your apartment to others wishing to lease the property.

Call in to schedule your move out inspection at least one week in advance to avoid scheduling conflicts. Other than July 31st and/or August 15th, inspections will normally be made between 8:30 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. Monday through Friday. Read more about our moving out process here!

How Renter's Insurance Benefits You

Thu, 22 Dec 2016 06:00:00 GMT

While not all property management companies instruct their tenants to get renter’s insurance, Hunziker requires it and here’s why: renter’s insurance benefits you by protecting your personal belongings in case of theft, fire, vandalism or a natural disaster. Now let’s talk in more detail about how renter’s insurance can benefit you.

Renter's Insurance Protects Against Theft

When you actually think about how many valuable personal belongings you own, the cost can add up fairly quickly. Laptop computers, flat-screen televisions, iPad’s, and other personal electronics can be prime targets for theft. Forgetting to lock your door just one time could put you at risk for a break in. If you apply for full replacement cost value insurance then your insurance company will pay the cost to replace your personal items that were stolen.

Replacement Cost vs. Actual Cash Value Policies

Replacement cost and actual cash value are two different types of rental insurance coverage. Actual cash value coverage will reimburse you for the cost of your items and belongings at the time of the claim, minus your deductible. It’s important to account for depreciation when considering actual cash value coverage. For example, if a flat-screen television was stolen from your apartment 3 years after the television was purchased, you would be reimbursed for the current value of the television.

If you choose replacement cost coverage you will be reimbursed for the full price of the new television, after you purchase the new tv and submit your receipt to your insurance company. The up-front cost is greater for replacement cost coverage, but your compensation for your belongings is much more accurate.

Renter's Insurance Protects Against Fire and Natural Disaster

The monetary worth of personal possessions aside from electronics such as furniture, clothing, textbooks, can leave you financially devastated if all were lost to a natural disaster or fire. Your property management company is only liable for the building, not the belongings inside of it. A renter’s insurance policy will save you from having to repurchase all of your personal belongings.

If a fire or natural disaster were to render your rental unit unlivable, a renter’s insurance policy will help pay for your temporary living expenses. This could include hotel bills, eating expenses and other living expenses normally incurred.

Renter's Insurance is Inexpensive

Most premiums for renter’s insurance averages between $15-$40 per month. Cost can depend on the location, size of unit, and how many personal possessions you have. A majority of renter’s insurance providers offer a variety of payment plans, allowing you to make monthly, quarterly, semi-annual, or annual payments. Ask your provider about payment plans, and be sure to inquire about any fees for installment payments.

Renter's Insurance Provides Liability Coverage

Renters liability insurance protects the renter from paying for an accident that causes loss or damage to an individual or to the property. Discuss with your insurance agent if renter’s liability insurance is a part of your policy.

Do Your Research

Insurance companies offer a variety of different coverage options for renters. Spend time reviewing your renter’s insurance policy and be sure it’s reflects the value of your belongings and the atmosphere of your rental unit. Feel free to contact Hunziker Property Management for their policies on renter’s insurance!

What's the Best Time of Year to Search for an Apartment in Ames?

Wed, 14 Dec 2016 06:00:00 GMT

For College Students

Leases for undergrads are typically one year, starting in August. Property Management Companies in Ames send out renewals to college students starting in October throughout December. At this time, you will need to know whether you are vacating the unit or staying in your current unit. If you decide you are vacating the unit to move to other rentals in the Ames community, this is a good time to start searching for a new apartment for the upcoming school year. Most college students will have their apartment lease signed for the upcoming year between January and March.

Considerations for College Students

Roommates

The first thing you have to consider when you start searching for an apartment is whether you will have roommates and how many. This will determine the size of the apartment you can look for.

Some people have the same roommates throughout college, some people change roommates almost every year, and some people choose to not have roommates at all. People change roommates for a variety of reasons including graduation date, internships, jobs, transferring schools, location and more.

Roommate Change vs. Sublease

When you live in a Hunziker rental property, a roommate change and sublease mean different things. A roommate change is when at least one roommate is staying in the apartment while one of the roommates are leaving before the end of the lease. A sublease is needed when all tenants decide to move out before the lease expires. For more information on roommate changes and subleases, read here .

Price of Rent

When searching for an apartment it’s important that you have a budget in mind, and your roommates agree on a budget. Establishing a budget early on can prevent disagreements with your roommates from happening in the future.

Location

There are many options for living around Ames. Hunziker has properties scattered throughout the city of Ames, including rental units in West Ames, Campustown, and North Ames . It’s important to discuss with your roommates where you would like to live. Do you prefer a short walk to class or are you willing to take the Cyride to class? Questions like this will help narrow down your search for an Ames apartment.

For Families and Young Professionals

For families and young professionals, if you’re currently renting with Hunziker then you will receive your renewal form between January and March. At this time, you will need to know whether you are vacating the unit or staying in your current unit.

Considerations for Families and Young Professionals

Budget

For those tenants currently renting with Hunziker, it’s important to evaluate your rent budget yearly. Are you still able to comfortably afford your monthly rent? If your financial situation changed throughout the year, it’s a good idea to put in perspective what you can afford for rent, and evaluate your living situation from there.

Job Situation

Leases usually last one full year. It’s important to consider your career, and where you think you’ll be a year from when you sign your lease. If you decide you might be moving within a year, you can try to find a sublease or reach out to a property management company that offers a six-month lease. Also, if you have received a work promotion, you may want to move into an apartment with more space, better amenities, and upgraded appliances.

Space

Speaking of space, while many people live in an apartment for many years, ultimately the next step for families or young professionals is to eventually purchase a home. If you feel you are ready for this next step you may want to reconsider signing a 1-year lease.

Hunziker is currently leasing rental units for Fall 2017. Please browse our apartment listings and contact us to set up a tour today!

Everything Hunziker's Somerset Tenants Need to Know About the Pool This Summer

Wed, 14 Dec 2016 06:00:00 GMT

The Somerset Village Pool in North Ames in now open! The pool and pool area at Somerset in North Ames is for use and enjoyment of the Somerset apartment residents and the Somerset property owners who have purchased memberships. Membership costs will not be pro-rated for families that choose to become members mid-year.

Somerset Pool Hours

The pool will be open from 8:00 a.m. until 10:00 p.m. seven days per week.
Radios or stereo equipment must be kept at a volume that will not disturb others in the pool deck area
The pool may be closed at any time due to weather or other conditions at the manager's discretion
The pool will not be open when the temperature falls below 70 degrees or if it is raining.

General Pool Rules

Running and rough play is prohibited in the pool area
Proper swim attire must be worn
Alcoholic beverages and/or glass containers of any kind are prohibited in the pool area - each member is responsible for cleanup of personal litter
Smoking is prohibited in the pool area
Somerset will not be liable for any personal property left in the pool area - there is no lost and found
Animals are not permitted in the pool area
Residents will be held responsible for any willful destruction of the property in the swimming pool are caused by them, their dependents and/or guests - the pool is monitored by security cameras
Life rings and ropes are for emergency use only

Who May Use the Pool

The pool was built for the use of Somerset Village Apartment residents who have a valid lease agreement. Use of the pool is included in their rent. Somerset single family residents, townhome and row house residents who have paid the annual Clubhouse fee may also use the pool.
Member are allowed no more than two guests per visit and must accompany their guests.
Children 14 years of age or younger must always be accompanied by a parent or guardian.
The pool may not be reserved for private parties.

Pool Code

Do not give your code to others. If we discover that a code is being abused via our code log, complaints, or via security cameras, you will lose your pool and clubhouse privileges.
Your code expires automatically when your lease expires. In the case of single family and townhouse residents, the code expires in May of each year. If you renew your lease and wish for your code to remain active, you must contact the clubhouse so that your code can be renewed.

Let us know if you have any other questions regarding the pool!

Apartment Fire Safety Tips

Tue, 06 Dec 2016 06:00:00 GMT

Fires can spread rapidly and destroy your personal belongings in a matter of minutes. It's important to take precautions to ensure you, the ones you care about, and your belongings are safe. Use these fire safety tips to eliminate potential hazards and safeguard your home.

Inspect the Apartment Before Signing a Lease

Before renting an apartment, you can easily perform a fire inspection. Inspect the smoke detectors and ask your landlord if all devices are working correctly. The apartment building or apartment should also contain a fire extinguisher that is easily accessible.

Know Common Causes of Apartment Fires

Many apartment fires start in the kitchen by appliances and other equipment in that area. Heaters, dryers or other electrical appliances are also a common cause of apartment fires and may happen when people are not at home. Smoking and other small flames created from candles and grills can also cause apartment fires.

Prevent Apartment Fires

There are many precautions you can take to help prevent a fire from occurring in your apartment which include:

Keep all kitchen towels, oven mitts, and food packaging stored away from the stove top and oven area
Set a timer when cooking or baking, and never leave food unattended while cooking on the stovetop
Blow out candles before leaving your apartment or before you go to sleep
Turn off space heaters or other small heaters anytime you leave your apartment
Replace all cords that are frayed or cracked
Report all non-functional smoke alarms to the building manager
Keep matches and lighters out of reach of children

Practice Fire Safety Around Christmas Time

Hunziker welcomes artificial Christmas trees for those who celebrate the holiday, but be sure to eliminate fire hazards by keeping it away from heat sources and inspecting strands of lights for any defects before use.

Have an Escape Plan in Place

Fires can happen when we least expect them to. Ask your property manager if they have any protocol for when a fire breaks out. Talk to your roommates or family and establish a plan.

Keep Calm in Case of a Fire

A fire can lead to panic, leaving you, your roommates or your family in a rush to leave. However, be cautious as to where the fire has started and spread to. Feel your apartment exit door before you rush out. If you feel it’s hot, find another exit if possible. Exit the door if it feels cool.

Your Safety Is Important to Us

All of Hunziker properties adhere to the city of Ames fire department requirements. If you notice a defective smoke alarm or fire hazards in your rental unit, please do not hesitate to contact us , and we will assess the problem as soon as possible.

Tips for Getting Your Security Deposit Back

Mon, 05 Dec 2016 06:00:00 GMT

When you sign a lease with property management company, you are responsible for any damages to the apartment when you move out. Follow the tips below to ensure you get your full security deposit back.

Read Your Lease Thoroughly

Do not just skim over your lease and sign it. We know you are excited to move into a new place and call it home, but your lease lays out everything you are responsible for while you live at the rental. It will also contain your move-out policy. Most property management companies in Ames have penalties for moving out before the end of your lease, which could include losing your security deposit.

Fill Out Move-In Inspection Form Carefully

When you move into a Hunziker rental property in Ames you will be given a move-in inspection form. You can also download one here and print it off. It’s important to fill out this form and note any existing damages. Hunziker will fix read through the inspection sheet and perform the necessary repairs. It’s crucial to fully inspect your apartment soon after moving in so you aren’t charged for existing damages when you move out. You may also take pictures of the rooms with existing damage to prove they were there upon move-in.

Keep the Rental in Good Condition

The landlord is responsible for the general maintenance of your apartment, but it’s your duty to keep the apartment in good condition. Refer to the lease on what you are responsible for. Be sure to clean up spills as soon as they happen so they don’t become long-term stains. It’s also good to have a bi-weekly or monthly cleaning session so dirt and food doesn’t pile up.

Communicate With Your Roommates

If your roommates are not your family members, then you and your roommates should devise a plan on who cleans what when it comes time to move out. Deciding on who cleans what ensures that every part of your apartment will be cleaned, and that way you can guarantee receiving your security deposit by keeping the rental property in good shape.

Take Photos When You Move Out

After everything has been moved out of your apartment and it has been completely cleaned, take photos of the apartment so you can show the landlord exactly how you left it. Most photos on phones and digital cameras have a date stamp included in the file so you can prove the date and time they were taken.

Follow Hunziker's Move-Out Checklist

Upon moving out of your Ames apartment you’ll need to schedule a move-out inspection with the property management company. All belongings must be moved out of the apartment and it must be completely cleaned out. For more information on the move-out inspection, read here .

If you have any more questions about your security deposit, moving into a Hunziker rental unit, your Hunziker lease, or moving out of your rental, feel free to contact us at 515-233-4440 .

How Much Rent Can I Afford in Ames?

Sat, 03 Dec 2016 06:00:00 GMT

To some residents, Ames is a college town, and to other it's simply known as their hometown. Hunziker Property Management serves all types of tenants from college students to young professionals and families alike. When it comes down to how much each of these demographics are able to pay for rent, there are numerous factors that determine what's considered an affordable rent payment.

College Students

College students are a special case because most students don’t have a steady monthly income, and every college student’s financial situation is different. Some students use student loan money for rent, while some have parental assistance. When beginning to look for apartments as an Iowa State student, it’s important to get your parents in on the discussion early. If it is your first time renting an apartment, your landlord may require you to have a cosigner for your lease. Cosigners are people with strong credit history and steady income who sign the lease with you and take legal responsibility alongside you for making payments on your apartment.

It’s also important to look at how much you’ll be spending upfront and additional recurring costs that you are responsible for which may include the following:

Upfront Rental Costs

Application fee
Security deposit
Furniture (if applicable)

Recurring Costs

Rent
Utilities
Miscellaneous fees (cable, internet, renter's insurance, etc.)

Non-rent Related Costs

Food
Cell phone
Entertainment
Car insurance
Transportation

Finding Roommates

Most college students choose roommates to live with because it decreases the cost of rent. Before choosing a roommate it’s important to consider the following:

Will they be able to afford monthly rent and utilities?
Do they have pets?
Can you trust them around your personal belongings?
Will they sign and abide by the lease terms?
Are your lifestyle choices comparable?
How do you plan to split up household tasks?
Who will they invite over as guests?

All of these considerations should be accounted for before deciding to sign a lease with someone. If you feel someone will clash with your expectations, do not hesitate to seek out a more compatible roommate.

Young Professionals and Families

If you are a young professional or a family residing or looking to reside in Ames, the best way to determine how much to spend on rent starts with establishing a budget. You can get started with a budget by using a simple home budget calculator . Most experts recommend spending no more than 30% of your monthly income (before taxes) on rent. Another way to calculate how much you can afford on rent is to divide your annual income by 40.

The 30% threshold is certainly a recommendation. At the end of the day, it’s important to look at your personal budget and think about the goals you want to achieve in order to decide how much rent you can afford to pay. For the young professional, paying off student loans may be a goal. For the family household, paying for the needs of your family may be the goal.

Renting with Hunziker Property Management

Hunziker Property Management has several affordable apartments and townhomes across the city of Ames available to rent. Be sure to check out our rental listings and contact us if you have any questions!

Tips for Renting Your First Apartment

Fri, 02 Dec 2016 19:50:35 GMT

Create a Budget

Before you begin searching for an apartment, decide how much you can afford monthly to pay rent. Rent is normally due the 1st day of each month. Late fees are often assessed if your rent payment is late. Don’t forget to take common apartment expenses into consideration including electricity, gas, heat, air conditioning, cable, internet, renter’s insurance, and laundry when you are budgeting for your apartment.

As a rule of thumb the amount you should be budgeting for rent, which includes the miscellaneous rent expenses mentioned above, should be no more than 30% of your monthly income.

Renter's Insurance

You may have to acquire renter’s insurance if your landlord requires it. Even if it’s not required, it may be a good idea to purchase renter’s insurance, as it will protect your personal belongings in case of theft, fire or natural disaster. Learn more about the benefits of renters insurance here.

Tour the Apartment

Pick a day to schedule apartment tours to see the rental units in person so you can see the unit's conditions. Come prepared with questions you want to ask the property manager. Good questions to ask can include the following:

What expenses are included in the rent?
Is rental insurance required?
What is the parking situation?
How are maintenance requests handled?
What is your pet policy?
How much are up-front costs when I sign the lease?

Take notes about each apartment so you can compare apartments later. Ask for contact information from each property manager.

Signing the Lease

Once you have picked the apartment that you want to rent, it’s time to sign the lease! Be sure to carefully read over each section in your lease. Ask your landlord about any questions you might have or clarification you need. The lease covers everything you need to know from the respective duties of the landlord to the lease term.

Moving In

Your landlord will give you an inspection sheet to fill out when you first move in. It’s very important for you and your roommates to do a thorough walk through of your apartment when you first move in. Mark down any repairs that need to be done, and if anything is dirty or missing. Important things to check for during the inspection may include:

Kitchen appliance functionality
Outlets have power
Accessible phone and cable jacks
Safety equipment properly installed
Door and window functionality
Running hot and cold water
Flip all light switches

Fill out the inspection sheet and return it to your landlord as soon as possible.

Enjoy Your Apartment

While the process of searching and acquiring a rental might be time consuming, the end result is very rewarding!

Hunziker Property Management has many rental properties throughout the city of Ames. Please contact us if you have any questions about our rental policies or have an inquiry about one of our rental units.