Category: Blog

How to Get Your Security Deposit Back (And Other Things You Should Do When Moving In and Moving Out)

medium_3290560161As a new year approaches, some of our tenant’s leases will be up and will be moving on, and others will be moving in!

One of the most common questions we hear is “How do I get my Security Deposit back?”

Whether your lease is up next month or next year, there are steps you can take to help ensure that you get your deposit back in full.

1. Document EVERYTHING When You Move In and Move Out.

We cannot stress how important it is to document the condition of your rental when moving in and moving out.  WE WILL NOT BE OFFENDED if you photograph or videotape and bring to our attention any issues that are going on inside the house either before moving in or during your lease period.

In fact, we much prefer for our tenants to be proactive and take steps to ensure we are on the same page!

  • We recommend taking 15 minutes to walk from room to room to photograph and make note of anything that is cause for concern right after you get your keys.  If you have the option of dating the photos digitally, it doesn’t hurt!  You can include these images with any move-in paperwork, but at least notate that you took them and keep them for your own reference. 
  • We give our tenants two full weeks from the time they move in to notify us of any issues with the rental. We can decide together whether it is something that needs to be fixed or just noted on the agreement so that you are not responsible.
  • If anything breaks, “goes bad” or happens to the rental while you’re living there, fully document it for your own records.
  • At the end of the lease, do another walk-through and document your cleaning and repair work.  We will discuss problem areas and give the renter the opportunity to correct any issues, or quote a price for a third party to do so. We can tell you approximately how long we think it will take, and work with you to find the best solution for everyone. 
  • We highly recommend scheduling this walk through a week in advance of the end of the lease to ensure a time that works best for your schedule.
Document everything.

2. Engage in Open Communication

We understand that problems arise, and it is better to be on the same page from beginning to end.  We want to develop a mutual understanding with our tenants and clearly communicate what of they are responsible for in the lessee/lessor relationship

  • We encourage you to ask questions or disclose any concerns you are having about your rental to our staff right away.  You can do this by calling (541) 485-7776 to speak with a staff member Monday – Friday 9:00 am to 4:00 pm. You can also come to our Ferry Street office to meet with one of our staff in person (though we advise calling first). Address: 1301 Ferry St. Eugene, OR 97401
  • If you are having an After Hours Emergency please call (541) 686-0743. Obviously please call 911 if this is a medical emergency or if the local authorities need to get involved.
  • Know your renter’s rights and the housing laws! Click here to see Landlord and Tenant laws in Oregon. Bookmark this site in your browser in case you ever need it for reference! Knowing and understand your rights as a tenant here (or anywhere) can make a huge difference!
  • If you have been charged you for something that you think is unfair, request more information. Remember, landlords are not out to “get” you. 
  • Provide accurate forwarding address information. This may seem basic,  but you would be surprised how many tenants neglect to leave us a forwarding address which makes it difficult to send your deposit back in a timely manner.
  • Talk to our staff to make sure you understand clearly what is expected of our tenants when they move out. 

3. Keep it Clean

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Make sure you understand what kind of condition we expect the rental to be in when moving out so you don’t end up under-cleaning or over-cleaning.  It doesn’t hurt to make it a goal to leave the rental in better condition than when you moved in.  It doesn’t have to be perfect, but you will need to clean thoroughly and fix any damage you, your guests, or pets have caused.

  • When you leave, return all keys and remove everything, including garbage, food, and cleaning supplies.
  • Clean or repair dirty or broken light fixtures, dirty window tracks, and broken towel bars (there are some of the most frequent issues that we come across).
  • Do not wait until the last minute to fix everything that may be broken in the rental.  
  • If you wish to hire an outside company to help, the typical rate for cleaning from our cleaners is around $30/hour.

Ultimately, we want our renters to be happy with their home. If you feel that you are not being treated fairly, or that the rental is not up to par, we want to know about it. Please feel free to contact us with any questions or concerns you may have.

photo credit: borman818 via photopin cc

photo credit: TranceMist via photopin cc

photo credit: kristiewells via photopin cc

7 Simple Storage Ideas for Your Rental Property

Photo Source: WikiMedia Commons Craig Conley

Finding new ways to make the most of your apartment storage is key to making a rental feel like home.

Unfortunately, finding ample storage can be a challenge for some tenants (depending on the amount of stuff you own). However, with a little creativity (and some inspiration from Pinterest), it is possible to implement simple storage solutions that will transform your living space.

Here are 7 storage ideas we found on Better Homes and Gardens that could help:

1. Hang a skirt around an open sink, using adhesive-backed hook-and-loop tape to hide plumbing. Hide baskets or a low shelving unit of bathroom essentials behind the skirt.

2. Place an open metal shelving unit (like what you would find in an industrial kitchen) with decorative baskets to keep kitchen staples organized.

3. Make your coffee table double as a handy storage container by using a decorative trunk with a flat surface large.

4. Create your own “entryway” by placing a large multi-functional bookcase near your apartment entry. Add hooks to hold jackets, umbrellas, book bags, etc. Decorative baskets on bottom shelves can serve as shoe containers or other out-the-door essentials like hats and sunglasses. Add a memo bar from an office supply store to the top of the bookcase as a place to organize mail and reminders.

5. Wanna fake a vintage built-in bookshelf? Flank a doorway with identical bookcases that reach almost to the ceiling and install moldings around the tops of the shelves. As a style bonus, paint the bookcase before installation, or line the backs with pretty paper.

6. Employ laundry hampers for more than just dirty clothes. Use them around your apartment for stashing umbrellas and hats, extra linens, or kids’ toys.

7. Hang a grid of favorite pictures or prints inside frames with large mats. The bigger mats will provide much-needed white space for an active display. Onlookers will be able to take in each photo, which makes for an effective display.

Article Source: www.bhg.com

4 Ways to make your Von Klein Property Feel like Home

Apartment Decorating

It’s a new season and you are all moved in into your new home! But something may be missing…..your personal touch.

It’s these personal touches that transforms a rental property to a home. How do you give your rental property look that is uniquely yours (without losing your security deposit)?  Read on for some tips:

1. Don’t like the carpet? Cover it with an area rug!
So you want to bring more color and warmth into your rental? Use an area rug that coordinates with your other décor.

It may surprise you how much it can change the look of a room! Depending on where you shop, area rugs are usually inexpensive, and can be used over neutral carpets. Great deals can be found in stores like Target, TJMaxx and Ikea (if you want to take a road trip to Portland!) or you can look online at sites like Overstock.com.

The best part is, you get to take your beautiful area rug with you whenever you move out!

2. Give your furniture a new hue!
Since you can’t paint the walls in your rental, why not add color to your furniture? Give your couch a new life with a slipcover and/or colorful decorative pillows! Slipcovers are usually inexpensive and can be found in stores like Bed Bath and Beyond, Target, etc.

You can also transform your rental just by painting your furniture (make sure you use a dropcloth from the hardware store to prevent spills on the floor)! Adding a new paint job to a dining room table, or a bookshelf, or an end table, can be just as impactful as new color on the walls.

3. Mirror mirror on the wall….
It’s the oldest design trick in the book, because it works! Mirrors reflect light and make a space feel bigger. Hang a large mirror in your dining space, living room, or bedroom across from a window, so it is in a prime position to receive natural light and reflect it back into the room.

Eugene Apartments

4. Make your windows a work of art with bright colors or patterns.
Install a simple curtain rod 6-10 inches above your window using a damage-free wall hook (Commandâ„¢ Brand Products are great) to make the room feel larger. Hanging curtains with your your favorite patterns or colors will give a refreshing contrast to the neutral walls in your living space.

area rug photo credit: ooh_food via photopin cc

Biking is the Way to Go in Eugene, Oregon

A strong cycling culture and history combined with an extensive network of bike paths and scenic bikeways has given Eugene, Oregon a very “bike friendly” reputation. In fact, Bicycling Magazine mentioned Eugene in their list of “The Best Cycling Cities.” Bike Magazine listed Eugene as one of their “5 Best Mountain Biking Towns.”

With hundreds of miles of dedicated bicycle lanes and paths in our area, (including four bicycle bridges) residents are able to get around easily by bike any time of the year. Did you know that Eugene has more bridges for bicycles than for cars? And if you can’t ride the entire way to your destination, Eugene – Springfield’s public transit system is bike-friendly.

Eugene’s growing bicycle network includes:

  • 42 miles of shared-use paths,
  • 81 miles of on-street bicycle lanes,
  • 35 miles of signed bikeways, and
  • 5 bicycle/pedestrian bridges spanning the Willamette River
  • 2 bicycle/pedestrian bridges spanning major roads or highways

-Source www.eugene-or.gov/bicycles

The benefits of bicycling are endless, not only is it healthy exercise, it is an affordable and sustainable transportation option. Cycling can be a great way to unwind too, within a half hour’s ride from Eugene, cyclist’s encounter vineyard covered hills reminiscent of France and flat stretches of scenic byways resembling Holland.

In Oregon, bicycles are subject to laws just like motorized vehicles. Please ride with the direction of traffic, use appropriate signals and obey traffic lights. Remember that bicycle riders under 16 are required to wear a helmet.  Here are some additional cycling resources for you to know about:

Source: www.eugenecascadescoast.org/cycling

photo credit: W.D. Vanlue via photopin cc

New Student Housing Development Named for Track Star Steve Prefontaine

Von Klein Property Management now taking applications for The Prefontaine, a brand new complex located in the heart of the University of Oregon campus.

We announced this month The Prefontaine, the newest addition to Paradigm Properties,  is finally complete!  This brand new residential living complex has 20 units and is located in the heart of the University of Oregon campus.

Not only will residents will enjoy majestic views of McArthur Court and Hayward Field, the new development features spacious three and four bedroom units with state-of-the art appliances, spacious floor plans oversized windows, exterior decks and a rooftop terrace.

The residence is named for one of the University of Oregon’s most memorable students, Steve Prefontaine, the track star who went on to set 14 American records and earn international fame before his career was cut short in a car accident in 1975.

Individual Leases on single rooms are available on select units. Prices are $695 to $725 and include all utilities!

Applications are now being accepted and we are offering daily tours from 1 – 4 pm and by appointment. These units will go fast. to secure your place, call Von Klein Property Management at (541) 485-7776 or (541) 954-2361.

Steve Prefontaine photo credit: The Happy Rower via photopin cc

Spotlight on Eugene: a.k.a. Track Town USA

 

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It is well known that Eugene is home to the University of Oregon, but if you look closer, the city is also known for its natural beauty, eclectic shops, restaurants, music, festivals, arts, and outdoor recreational opportunities like bicycling, kayaking, and running.

Eugene is often referred to as the “Emerald City” mostly due to our lush green landscape of the Willamette Valley. But perhaps we are best known as “Track Town, USA“, a nickname we take great pride in.

Why are we known as “Track Town, USA”? It could be the miles and miles of running trails or the numerous venues and events focused on track and field and the local running community.

Eugene is the host city for World-Class Track & Field events such as 2008 and 2012 U.S. Olympic Team Trials, and the 2009 and 2011 USA Outdoor Track & Field Championships.

2012 U.S. Olympic Team Trials
U.S. Olympic Team Trials

In the summer of 2014, Eugene will be the host city for the IAAF World Junior Championships. Eugene 2014 marks the first time the IAAF World Junior Championships has been held in the United States and the first IAAF event held on U.S. soil since 1992!

Historic Hayward Field is one of the most famous track and field-only facilities in the world. Built in 1919 on the University of Oregon campus, this historic venue has hosted nine NCAA Championships, six national championships, three Olympic Trials, 30 Prefontaine Classics and numerous other prestigious track and field events.

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It was here where Steve Prefontaine captured national attention and University of Oregon Track Coach Bill Bowerman formed a partnership with Phil Knight that launched Nike, the largest sports and fitness company in the world.

Eugene is also home to Oregon Track Club Elite athletes, considered among the nation’s best, all of whom live and train in the Eugene area.

The annual Eugene Marathon Draws more than 5,000 runners from around the nation and beyond, and was recently named one of the “Top 10 Best New Marathons in the U.S.” by Runner’s World magazine.

It’s no wonder we are known as Track Town USA!

Track Town USA photo credit: andrechinn via photopin cc

Archived U of O track photo credit: gbaku via photopin cc

U.S. Olympic Team Trials photo credit: U.S. Army IMCOM via photopin cc

How Renters Can Celebrate and Raise Awareness for Earth Day

Earth Day is coming up April 22 and we want to honor the day by sharing some easy tips to save energy and promote sustainable living in your rental property.

We have all heard it, but “Going green” starts with you.  We can each make a big difference to our planet by making simple changes our day to day habits.

Here are some small steps you can take to make a big difference to the environment (and save you money in utility costs).

  • Recycle. Locate your apartment building’s recycling bin. Sort your recyclables by glass, aluminum, plastic, cardboard, paper and newsprint.
  • Conduct an energy inspection. Look for windows and doors that leak air and increase your utility bill.
  • Turn the lights off when you leave a room.
  • Dry your clothes by hanging them up on a rack in the bathroom or laundry room. If you use a clothes dryer, clean the lint out of the lint screen inside the dryer. Remove dust from the outside dryer vents.
  • Use compact fluorescent light bulbs.
  • Buy groceries and household products made from recycled materials.
  • Bring containers for bulk foods and reusable bags to carry groceries home.

Source: How to Go Green in an Apartment | eHow.com 

If you want to take even bigger action, here are some ideas to raise awareness and promote sustainable living in your community:

  • Start a community recycling program that involves businesses, schools, libraries, government offices and residential homes.
  • Make the community aware of ways to minimize their impact on the Earth by improving the environment. This can include purchasing organic products, composting organic trash, and using reusable shopping bags and water bottles. After adopting these practices, encourage community members to seek further information.
  • Buy local food and goods, since they require less fuel for shipping. This also stimulates the local economy.
  • Arrange neighborhood carpools to discourage release of harmful emissions into the air. Other ways to accomplish this is to walk or take public transportation.
  • Give away used clothing, books and electronics to thrift stores to reduce waste and lower the need for the community to buy new products.
  • Volunteer for local environmental organizations. Work with them to organize projects that clean up the community or raise awareness among citizens.
  • Get involved with the local government and influence environmental regulatory decisions that will govern the community. Join campaigns to save wildlife or petition to reduce pollution. Spread awareness and interest in the cause; it may encourage friends and neighbors to get involved.

Review of Von Klein Property Management

We hear a lot of good things from our tenants and we read some bad ones on line. Here is a review in Yelp that had been filtered out. It is the real deal. Written by Kerry Plain on 3/20/2012.

Thank you Kerry!

“We had an absolutely phenominal experience with Von Klein Property Management and everyone associated with them… and under unusual circumstances!  My son transferred to school the day before it started in September of 2011. We drove from Northern California with a fully loaded car and no place for him to live.  We found Hilliard House, and Bryan, and moved in within 3 hours of our arrival – into a beautifully maintained property with a resonably priced unit for him.  I felt 100% comfortable leaving him in a great location and with great people!  While we had signed a 1 year lease,  for medical reasons, my son had to return home after 4 months and Bryan and Von Klein did everything they could to re-rent his unit so that they could let us out of our lease, which they were able to do within 2 months of his departure.  We could not have asked for more co-operation, understanding and help from anyone.  They even were kind enough to send us the  remaining clothes he had left in the dryer!   It is  very reassuring to happen upon such professional, caring people and I would recommend them without hesitation! “

Von Klein Property Management Review

We would like to thank Jay for taking his time to write this review and even though Yelp decided to hide it,  we felt it should be out there.

6/7/2011 Jay H.

“I had a fairly pleasant time renting from this company. Rented from them for 2 years, and didnt have any problems with them. My on-site managers were very nice and considerate. Long as you pay your rent on time and dont complain every 5 minutes, from my experience, you’ll be fine. I rented from a few other companies that deal with on campus rentals and I think they were sub par compared to Von Klein.”