Benefits of Renting a Studio Apartment

Eugene Studio Apartments
The need for a simplified, minimalistic lifestyle is growing among college students. Balancing a rigorous class and lab schedule, social pressures, work responsibilities, study groups, travel, campus events and more can be very overwhelming for the average student. More and more young adults are finding it easier to streamline their lives and eliminate  pressures like keeping up with multiple bills, obligations to roommates, keeping up with “stuff”, moving expenses, etc. by opting to live in a  studio apartment.

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Moving into a studio apartment is a strong motivator to simplify you lifestyle and rid yourself of belongings and responsibilites you may not need at this stage in your life. Many of our tenants enjoy the benefits of living in a studio apartment that are fully furnished, include utilities and have an on site laundry facility.  We can think of many reasons one could benefit from renting a studio apartment instead of a one-bedroom unit.  Here are a few that come to mind.

Saves Money.

This is the most obvious and the top reason renters may opt for a studio apartment.  It’easier to keep utilities cost low when living in a studio apartment than a one-bedroom apartment. If your utilities are included, budgeting becomes easier when you only have to write one check each month. Another perk? Furnishing a studio apartment is simple comparied to larger spaces. All you nned are just a few key pieces, like a bed, desk, small love seat and table. Many of our studio apartments are even furnished. Saving money on rent, utilities, and furnishings is a much more economically appealing choice for renters on a budget.

You are Your Own Roommate.

This can be a “pro” or a “con” depending on your personality type. However, not having the social pressues and obligations of having a roommate can be a refreshing change. There is nobody to clean up for other than yourself, no need to divide costs or be considerate to anyone (except your neighbors). You can be as moody as you need to be, turn the lights off when you want, decorate as you please, watch whatever you want to watch. There are no boyfriends or girlfriends you have to tip toe around. We’re not gonna lie, life without a roommate can be nice and having a studio apartment is an affordable option.

Saves Time and Energy.

Time management is vital to any college student’s success, so the simpler your lifestyle, the better. When you have less space to furnish, few belongings to keep up with, few bills to manage, and no roommate or parties to contend with, you will find this frees up a tremendous amount of time and energy. When everything you own is located in the same room, it is much easier to keep track of and find what you need.

Studios can be Super Stylish.

Minimalism is in. When you have less space and less stuff, you will likely be smarter and more creative about storage and design. Many of our space-savvy tenants have come up with stylish layout and storage solutions to make their studios feel cozy and comfortable. Living in a studio forces you to prioritize what you really need and love so you elimate the rest.

Less Cleaning Required.

A smaller space means you’ll have less square footage and less stuff to keep clean. A simplified living space meants that every cleaning task, from dishes, to sweeping, to vacuuming and dusting is made much easier than even a on or two-bedroom apartment.

Better Location.

As a student, it’s likely you’re going to spend more time away from your apartment than in it. Studios are ideal for someone who is constantly on the go. Most of our studio apartments are close to campus and accessible by walking or biking, this means more excercise and a healthier lifestyle! Studio apartment dwellers are more likely to get out and explore events and places on and off campus.

If you think a studio apartment might be right for you, we can help! Call us at 541.485.7776 so we can help you search for the right place for you to call home.

Eight Benefits Available to U of O Students (You May Not Know About)

There’s no shortage to the excellent benefits and resources U of O has to offer its students: terrific career services department, state of the art facilities, an unparalleled staff, the Ducks (go Ducks!). Still, you may be unaware of some of these less obvious resources.

Zipcar Student Rates

Zipcar has partnered up with University of Oregon to provide affordable prices to the student population, allowing you to join for only $15. Head to our Zipcar post for more info!

LTD Rides for Free

That’s right, flash your student ID badge and you can ride any LTD bus for free. Click here for info regarding their routes and time tables.

Discounted Rates for Enterprise Car Share

Not only is the one-time $20 fee waived if you’re a student, your annual membership is a discounted $35! Visit Enterprise’s Car Share page for a map of available cars and pick up locations.

10% off Whole Foods Purchase

Did you know that as a student you can save 10% of your entire purchase every Tuesday throughout the academic year at Whole Foods? Not a deal to miss!

Deals on Mattresses from American Mattress Manufacturing

A new mattress can be a costly endeavor; American Mattress Manufacturing helps by offering discounts on mattresses and full sets.

Save Money on Software and Hardware

Most major software and tech companies—Adobe, Apple, Autocad, Microsoft—will offer student discounts on software and hardware; in some cases even allow students to use software for free.

Expand Your Mind Without Paying A Cent

Both the Jordan Schnitzer Museum of Art and the Museum of Natural & Cultural History are free to students! Just bring your student ID with you and you’re good to go!

Get Your Swing on for Less

Like others on this list, Laurelwood Golf Course offers discounted rates to University of Oregon students!

Who knew a student ID could save you so much money? Be sure to follow our blog for the latest in tips and hacks for student living in Eugene!

Seven Ways to Feel Like You’re Getting Away (Without Having to Go Very Far)

Don’t know about you, but we’re pretty happy Spring is here! It could not have gotten here soon enough and you’re probably eager to get away and take a break.  If travel is not in your budget this spring, fret not. Here are seven “must-do” local activities this spring. Consider this your Spring in Eugene “bucket” list!

✓ Pack a picnic lunch and spend the afternoon strolling through Hendrick’s Park

With 80 acres of stunning gardens and incredible views, Hendricks Park is a must for any nature lover. It’s the oldest park in Eugene and it’s never quite as noticeable (or incredible) as when you’re walking beneath the branches of 200-year old fir trees.

✓ Take a quick roadtrip to Florence, Oregon

Florence may be a bit of a drive at 60 miles west of Eugene, but it’s absolutely worth it for the stunning beach! Grab some friends and enjoy surfing, biking, fishing, dune buggy riding, and kayaking. When you’re done, why not spend some time and explore Florence’s unique charms?

✓ Spend some time people watching at Amazon Park

With so much to do in this 99-acre park, there is ample opportunity for people watching as you unwind, relax and take in the scene. There’s tennis courts, soccer fields, a skate-park, baseball diamonds, ball fields, a community garden, concerts, picnic tables, recreation centers, bike paths, a dog park, and exercise stations. It also contains Eugene’s only outdoor pool in its recreation facilities.

✓ Embracing your wild side at the Cascades Raptor Center

No, not those kind of raptors… though that would be cool.

The Cascades Raptor Center houses one of the Pacific Northwest’s largest collections of birds of prey (over 50 species)! Eagles, Hawks, and Owls are just some of the usual suspects you’ll find in the center’s aviaries.

Tending to these beautiful creatures is a lot of work, so if you’re an animal lover looking for a way to become involved and make a difference why not volunteer and lend a hand?

✓ Enjoy a concert at WOW Hall

With shows ongoing throughout the year, there is no doubt you’ll find something to rock out to at WOW hall! Be sure to check out their Events Calendar!

✓ Hike up and enjoying the view at Spencer Butte

Spencer’s Butte is a favorite destination for students, couples, even families to recharge and reconnect with nature. You’ll be hard pressed to find a better spot to spend a day. You can typically expect to spend anywhere from 1-6 hours to reach Spencer Butte’s summit depending on which trail and pace you wish to take.

The Main Trail is a 700 foot climb over 1.08 miles, whereas the West Route is a 700 foot climb over 0.6 miles. How you decide to head up is up to you. Mountain bikes are not permitted but dogs are so bring your furry buddy with you just as long as you keep them on a leash.

✓ Find your moment of zen at Cougar Hot Springs

Located 50 miles east of Eugene is Cougar Hot Springs, a local favorite to get in some relaxation in the water. Take a dip in one five pools in springs that range from 85° to 112°! For just $6 you can enjoy an entire day! Heads up- swimsuits are optional.

Of course, there’s always the local staples of museums, movie theaters, cafes, parks, great shopping, and restaurants to enjoy.  So get out there and enjoy our city!

 

Give it the Old College Try With These Back-to-School Tips

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Yeah, we know; heading back to college after summer break can be tough. You’re probably still enjoying your time off and avoiding thinking about classes and registration, right?

The truth is, it’s better to be prepared and to start thinking about it now rather than be blindsided later on. So whether you’re a returning student or a brand new enrollee, consider these Back-To-School tips to make your life easier down the road!

1. Registration and Paperwork are done, right?

This is a biggie so we’ll go ahead and make it number one. Be sure to fill out all necessary paperwork for your classes, meal plan, parking permits, and any other steps required to be a functioning student. There won’t be much of a back-to-school if you aren’t enrolled in any classes, after all.

2. Establish Healthy Habits

These are helpful to stick to all year round, but doubly so when heading back to class after a long break. Make sure to get 7-9 hours of sleep a day and drink plenty of water. Try to get exercise when you can and rest when you’re sick. Stick with these tips and you’ll be in good shape.

Roommates

3. Get to know your roomie

You two are going to be living together for a while! Get to know one another, establish rules for cohabitation, and treat each other with mutual respect. You’ll have enough on your mind without having to worry about roommate troubles.

4. Be Safe

We could devote a whole post just to this (and we have) but the important thing to take away is to always be aware of your surroundings and careful when traveling at night. The buddy system is your friend!

5. Warm Up Your Brain Before College

Heading back to class, you’ll be expected to do a lot of critical thinking, assignments, and test taking. Like any good muscle, you should warm up your brain before putting it to work. Lead up to your term start by engaging in some brain activities, such as sudoku or crossword puzzles.

Stick to these tips and you’ll be ready to face anything your classes have in store for you!

Even the Score with UO $CORE

UO$CORE

 

How much do you spend on electricity a month? What about water? Is it higher than you’d like to be spending? What if we told you that you could be helped with your bills and do your part to help the greater good in the process? That’s exactly the case with UO $CORE, a student run program to help students save money on their utility bills for environmentally-responsible practices.

$CORE stands for “Student and Community Outreach for Renter efficiency” and was started in 2012 by James Walton, a senior business major who secured a grant from Eugene Water and Electric Board to create the program. Through $CORE, student staff perform free audits and install upgrades in older, off-campus student rental housing while also helping student tenants by providing information, materials, and skills to help lower their carbon footprint and utility bills.

If you’re interested in hearing more about how $CORE can help you save money then you should register for a free energy assessment!

Energy Assessment

What does this assessment include? Simply put, two Energy Evaluators will come to your house and assess your energy needs. Over the course of an hour they will install low use devices such as CFL lightbulbs and weather stripping, while also give you some information on how to lower your energy consumption and carbon footprint.

Not only will your bills be lower and your house better for the environment, you’ll even get a free pizza from TrackTown Pizza if more than half the household is present!

CFLBulbs
Say hello to your new best friend.

Tips for Reducing Energy Use

$CORE’s Facebook page is constantly updated with handy tips to reduce your utility bills and carbon footprint. We’ve selected a few here to share.

  • Wrap your water tank with jacket insulation to save up to 10% on water heating costs.
  • Install low-flow showerheads.
  • When cooking on a stovetop, match the pan size to the heating surface to prevent heat loss to the surrounding air.
  • Put your computer and monitor to sleep mode (or off) when you’re not using them.
  • Replace your bulbs with Energy Star® efficient light bulbs.
  • Keep your freezer full to minimize energy used. For maximum savings fill the freezer with gallons of water.

A quick session with UO $CORE and you’ll have lower bills, a diminished carbon footprint, and free pizza!!! That’s what we call a win-win!

photo credit: CFL bulbs via photopin (license)

Zipcar Around Eugene

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As much as we love biking (and we really, really love biking), there are certain times when you simply need a car. The problem is, if you’re not a car owner this can often amount to the awkward begging of friends for a ride.

Well, say goodbye to unnecessary groveling, because Zipcar is providing students with an affordable way to get around Eugene! Zipcar has partnered up with University of Oregon to provide affordable prices to the student population, allowing you to join for only $15.

Oh, and did we mention gas and insurance are included? Sounds pretty good, doesn’t it?

How does Zipcar work?

  1. Join Zipcar

Once you’ve successfully joined, you’ll receive your Zipcard, the key (both figurative and literal) to unlocking cars, vans, and trucks the country over.

  1. Reserve a Car

Reserving is incredibly simple and can be done either online or on your phone.

  1. Tap your Card

Approach your Zipcar and hold your zipcard to the windshield, thus unlocking the car!

  1. Drive

With that done, you now are free to drive around! When your time is up just return your car to the same reserved parking spot.

Where to Pickup your Zipcar

Zipcar has several accessible locations around campus! Below are the locations you can pick up/drop off your vehicle.

Zipcar LocationsIf you’re planning on moving out (or moving in) in the near future, Zipcar is an excellent option to help lessen your burden come moving day. After all, those boxes aren’t going to carry themselves across town!

A you can see, Zipcar is a simple, affordable, and convenient option to travel around Eugene and beyond. So the next time you’re looking to make a trip to Portland, consider trying a Zipcar!

It’s Party Time! Do You Know About the Social Host Ordinance?

Wild Party

 

4th of July is approaching and you’re no doubt already planning your own party and/or being invited to get-togethers with friends. Before you get too carried away with planning your BBQs and events, however, you should keep the Social Host Ordinance in mind.

Wait, the What?

The Social Host Ordinance (also known as The Ordinance on Unruly Gatherings) is a law that holds individuals responsible for organizing and hosting an unruly event. In other words, if your party gets out of hand, you’re criminally responsible for it.

What Constitutes a Disorderly Gathering?

That’s a fair question, after all one person’s disorderly gathering might be another person’s book club. Here are the telltale signs of a party that will land you in trouble:

  • Over-packed gatherings filling out onto the streets.
  • Under-age drinking.
  • Open alcohol container/consumption in public.
  • Noise pollution that affects neighbors.
  • Interfering with a police officer.
  • Drunk and disorderly conduct.

In other words, if it’s likely to result in a call to the police, it’s considered a disorderly gathering.

What about Fireworks?

Legal Fireworks are permitted to be used between June 23-July 6 and December 31-Jan 1. Your 4th of July party should be fine having them, but you won’t be allowed to use them the rest of the year.

What Can I Do to Avoid Getting in Trouble?

Below are some suggestions from the City of Eugene to keep your party safe and acceptable:

Keep a Guest List

Though it’s always tempting to adopt a “come one come all” attitude about your party, this typically ends with a party at max capacity pouring out onto the streets. By knowing ahead of time how many people you’re inviting you’ll limit the party’s capacity to escalate beyond reasonable levels.

Inform Your Neighbors

Let your neighbors know the date and time of your party beforehand. While you’re at it, give them your phone number and contact information should any concerns arise. This step will go along way to avoiding the police being called on your event (and also makes you a better neighbor).

21+ Only

Keep your party legal! If there’s going to be drinking make sure all guests are of the legal drinking age.

Monitor Noise Levels

Keep an eye (an ear?) on the noise levels of your party. Don’t blast your music to the point where people have to yell to one another and keep the hollering to a minimum.

Clean Up After Yourself

Your neighbors are less likely to have any issues with your (or involve the police) if your party is organized and clean.  Pick up after yourself when the event’s over.

Prevent Drunk Driving

Regardless of the Social Host Ordinance, this should be a rule for every party you host or are a part of. Do not allow your friends or you yourself drink and drive, or breaking the law will be the least of your concerns.

Be Polite to the Police

Look we get it, nobody wants the police showing up at their door, but it’s important to remember that they are doing their job. Be courteous and helpful should the authorities come with concerns about your party.

Call The Police if Needed

Call the police to your own party? When it’s getting out of hand or becoming dangerous, absolutely. If things reach the point where you yourself can’t control it, give the authorities a call.

That’s a good starting point on the Social Host Ordinance and should be enough to help you plan your upcoming summer parties. If you want to know more, you can read about the ordinance at Party Safe, Party Responsibly.  Have fun!

photo credit: Kids gone crazy via photopin (license)

Make Moving Out A Breeze With These 10 Handy Tips

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Moving on is so hard to do… but moving out doesn’t have to be! Stick to these tips to save yourself a headache come moving time.

#1 – Have Lots of Packing Supplies

Moving out requires boxes, packing tapes, bubble wrap, labels, pens, and more. Plan ahead for the move and stock up with more supplies than you need, or you’ll find yourself running back and forth constantly to stock up. 

#2 – Make a List

Did you remember to pack that special item that means so much to you? Which box did you put that cable in? By keeping an organized list as you’re packing you’ll be doing Future You a huge favor come unpacking time.

#3 – Keep Things Together

Resist the urge to toss random items into one box! Keep kitchen item together, bathroom items together, and so forth. This extends to moving day, see if you friends or movers can move the boxes that belong together at the same time.

#4 – Color Coordinate

Having a color system will make aforementioned organization much easier for packing, moving, and unpacking. Separate the rooms 

#5 – Use Wardrobe Boxes

Moving companies will often bring vertical moving boxes for you to transfer your clothes and clothes-hangers too. 

#6 – Valuable? Keep it with you

Avoid putting valuable jewelry in moving boxes if you can’t afford to lose it. This tip also extends to important papers, be sure to keep them close at hand. Don’t tempt fate!

#7 – Clean What You Can Ahead of Time

You’re going to need to clean before returning your apartment/home, but you can get started with cleaning now!

#8Pack an Overnight Bag

Chances are at the end of moving day you’ll be too tired to unpack boxes and find your toiletries and supplies. Pack an overnight bag with some toiletries and a change of clothes to give yourself a little breathing room before you need to unpack.

 #9 – Change Your Address Before Moving

Don’t wait until the last minute! It’s recommended you do this at least two weeks before moving.

#10 – Don’t Shop For Groceries On Your Last Week

Ideally you’ll be able to eat all the food in your fridge right in time for moving day and avoid having to throw anything out.

 

photo credit: moving house via photopin (license)

A Hike Up Spencer’s Butte

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Feeling in a rut?  Roommates got you down?  Too much studying and need to get away?   Spencer’s Butte is a favorite destination for students, couples, even families to recharge and reconnect with nature. You’ve probably seen it if you’ve spent any time at all in downtown Eugene… it’s kind of hard to miss, after all.

You’ll be hard pressed to find a better spot to spend a day. Trust us, we’ve looked. You can typically expect to spend anywhere from 1-6 hours to reach Spencer Butte’s summit depending on which trail and pace you wish to take.

The Main Trail is a 700 foot climb over 1.08 miles, whereas the West Route is a 700 foot climb over 0.6 miles. How you decide to head up is up to you. Mountain bikes are not permitted but dogs are so bring your furry buddy with you just as long as you keep them on a leash.

If you’re thinking of taking up the trail consider these tips:

Don’t Leave Valuables in Your Car

Unless you’re in the market for a broken car window and a stolen iPhone avoid leaving valuables in the car.

Wear Hiking Boots

Sneakers won’t cut it, you need boots with a proper traction for hiking. Trails could be rendered slick by the weather and you’ll want the grip hiking boots provide.

Wear a Hat

After an hour or two in the sun you’ll be kicking yourself if you don’t bring a hat with you. Shade’s always welcome when trekking uphill.

Wear Sunblock

Always. Wear. Sunblock. Even if it’s overcast. Nothing worse than coming home peeling and raw from a big day out.

Use The Bathroom Before Heading Up the Trail

Yeah… nobody wants to have to deal with that halfway up the trail.

Bring Snakebite/Itchiness Kit

Pack a snakebite kit should the absolute worst happen, as well as something to deal with itchiness. And while we’re on the subject of itchiness…

Leaves of Three? Leave it Be

Be aware of the presence of Poison Oak throughout the hiking trail. We probably don’t need to say it but… don’t touch ’em.

Stay Hydrated

Bring a refillable bottle of water with you to stay hydrated on the trail.

Hike In a Group

Not only is it more fun, it’s safer too! Help each other out and avoid perilous situations.

Leave The Area Better Than You Found It

Toss your trash in a bin! If you see someone else’s trash littered why not pick it up and toss it too? And of course do not damage the natural elements of the hike: trees, boulders, flowers, etc.

Take Pictures

We mean it, the view up on Spencer Butte’s one of a kind. Take some pictures to brag the next time someone asks you how you spent your weekend.

 

photo credit: David and his new D5000 via photopin (license)

Roommate Etiquette 101

Roommates

Whether it’s a friend or a stranger having a roommate can be an amazing shared experience… but not one that comes without a little work. By simply taking a few steps you can ensure you and your roommate will always remain simpatico and get the most out of your living arrangement.

Step #1 Establish Guidelines From The Start

Avoid unnecessary arguments by establishing clear guidelines early on. Agreeing on schedules and day-to-day rules helps avoid misunderstandings and annoyed housemates.

Some suggested topics to cover include:

  • Bill paying procedures
  • Cleaning Schedule
  • Dirty dishes policy
  • Significant others coming over
  • Sleeping habits
  • Noise levels
  • Drinking habits
  • Pet policy
  • Allergies and general health requirements

Step #2 Respect Each Other’s Personal Space

It’s always a good idea to not enter your roommate’s space without their permission. Think about it, would you want someone entering your room when you’re not there?

Step #3 Respect Each Other’s Belongings

Unless you have an agreed upon rule for sharing food try to be mindful of your roommate’s food. There’s nothing worse than coming home after a long day dreaming of your left-over pizza only to find it eaten by someone else.

This rule also extends to personal belongings. Nothing stirs up bad feelings quite like the notion of someone rifling through your private stuff.

See this? Don't do this.

Step #4 Clean Up After Yourself

Even if a cleaning schedule is agreed on you should always be mindful to pick up after yourself. Certainly don’t leave trash or opened food lying around or an angry roommate will be the least of your troubles.

Step #5 Address Concerns

Bottling up feelings of annoyance will lead to an eventual explosive argument. Speak your mind as problems emerge and work together to find solutions. Whether the problems are big or small you will always be better of for addressing them openly.

Step #6 Don’t Expect To Be Best Friends

Though it’s certainly possible you may end up being best friends with your roommate, the expectation it will happen can often create an uncomfortable dynamic for a roommate. Be friendly but also be aware that their interests, schedules, and friends may not align with yours.

Step #7 Be Open To Change

Living with a stranger (or even a friend) will inevitably bring about new experiences and customs. You should always try to keep an open mind to these differences and change and go with the flow.

Step #8 Remember It’s A Shared Space

What’s most important to remember is that the home you occupy is a shared one. If you’re bringing people over, give your roommate some warning. Before blasting your rock music at 3AM, remember your roommate is one wall over and probably asleep. If you are leaving trash out, don’t forget someone else could be coming home to it.

If you stick to these rules you should be well on your way to having a comfortable shared space. Best of luck!