My Renters Guide

3 rental market predictions for 2016 & what investors can expect from the market next year

MyRentersGuide — Wed, 11 May 2016 14:00:41 +0000

Dec 10, 2015

Key Takeaways

Many people will continue to rent for reasons including the desire to downsize, travel and have a low-maintenance lifestyle.
Knowing what the growth will look like in a specific area as well as knowing the overall trending preferences of millennials to rent will help property owners and investors pace for demand.
My bet is that apartment buildings and multi-family home options are going to be far more popular than single-family homes.

Whether you’re a property manager, an owner who rents out your properties or someone who’s looking for a new place to call home, it’s no secret that the rental property market is changing.

With those changes, come some trends for 2016 and a few predictions that can be made. To be successful in any aspect of the rental market, it’s important to look ahead and have a good idea of the kinds of changes might occur so that you can be prepared.

The more you know, the more easily you can adapt to the trends that come along with the rental market and stay successful no matter what role you play.

1. The demand for rental housing will continue to rise

One of the biggest trends in rental housing is the increase in demand. Although plenty of people still buy homes to live in, a lot of other people are choosing to rent.

They might rent due to lack of a down payment or poor credit, but those are not the only reasons that the demand for rental housing is going up.

People choose to rent for all kinds of reasons, including a desire for a low-maintenance lifestyle, moving to a new location and traveling frequently. In some markets, it’s also less expensive to rent than it is to own a home, so people choose rentals.

With a significant number of people making that rental choice today, property owners and property management companies are finding that they need more properties to offer to people who are looking for their next place to call home.

Overall, the demand for rental properties is predicted to continue to rise, as the trend among millennials shifts toward a more simplistic lifestyle that doesn’t include homeownership.

Those who want to get involved in rental properties, whether owning or managing them, might want to move toward a focus on additional properties, so they can provide what people are looking for in the coming year.

One of the biggest trends in rental housing is the increase in demand.

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2. Investors will need to pace with the demand in their area

With the rental market trending in a positive direction, property management companies might want to take a careful look at their staffing, software and other needs.

Although it’s important that these companies don’t overstaff or overbuy, they also want to make sure they are prepared for the influx of renters they will likely see throughout 2016.

Being aware of the growth in the rental market, and the trend for more millennials to choose to rent instead of own can help these companies prepare for the coming year.

Better preparation can mean better income, happier renters and more satisfied property owners, all of which are beneficial to any property management company.

Property owners who are considering investing in additional rental properties might also want to look carefully at their needs, profit margin and budget for buying more homes or apartment buildings.

If they are reasonably certain there will be enough demand to keep the houses or units full or nearly full, and the price of the property is right, this can be a good time to start purchasing more properties and building their real estate investment portfolio.

Rents are on the rise in a lot of areas, too, due to the increased demand, so the potential to build a strong level of income through investment properties or property management companies is very real going into 2016.

Property owners should look at their needs, profit margin and budget before expanding.

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3. Single-family homes will hugely bypass multi-family options

For investors, where to put their money when they buy real estate to rent out is an important consideration. Looking at the trends for real estate in 2016, it’s predicted that apartment buildings and multi-family home options are going to be better choices than single-family homes.

The main reason for that is the millennials themselves. Many of them are just starting out, and they don’t have families and children. As such, they don’t need big houses and space for children and pets to roam.

Instead, they might want the convenience of living right downtown, in a building close to work. Or they might want to live in a loft above a coffee shop, where they can pursue their artistic interests.

These are the kinds of choices many millennials are making today, and those decisions will likely continue into 2016. With that to look forward to, investors might want to consider buying multi-family properties or multi-use (residential and commercial) properties, instead of purchasing houses in the suburbs.

A good mix of rental properties can be beneficial, but the areas that bring in substantial income are where investors should focus when buying new property.

Property management companies might also have an easier time marketing these properties and keeping them rented, which results in a better situation for both the property owner and the management company.

The areas with a substantial income are those where investors should focus.

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Nat Kunes is the VP of product management at AppFolio. You can follow AppFolio on Twitter or Facebook.

Email Nat Kunes.

7 ways to keep your child learning this summer

MyRentersGuide — Wed, 04 May 2016 13:56:39 +0000

When school dismisses for the summer, parents across the country worry about how much their children will forget over the vacation months. Will all those hours helping them with math and reading dissolve with the carefree hours spent at the pool or playground?

“While a break from the long days of school is needed, studies show that most kids lose up to two months of their math skills between school grades,” says Dominique Ciccarelli, Ed.M., education specialist for Kumon North America. “The brain is like a muscle and needs a regular dose of exercise to stay strong. Connections in your brain multiply when you learn new topics, and through this process, you get smarter.”

Added to this concern is how much time over the summer parents will be able to commit to helping their children retain and reinforce what they learned during the previous school year. While millions of children are eager for the freedom of summer, parents are coming up with plans to keep the learning momentum going.

Here are seven fun ways to keep your child engaged over the summer with enriching experiences.

Have a scavenger hunt at the museum. One way to turn a visit to the museum into a fun and educational experience is to make it a scavenger hunt. If you’re going to an art museum, your list can include things you might see in paintings or sculptures from a certain country. If it’s a natural history museum, you can include dinosaurs and animals.

Find the right learning program. For families with children looking for enrichment activities, the right learning program is invaluable. With nearly 1,500 centers throughout the United States, Kumon uses an individualized approach that helps children develop a solid command of math and reading skills. To help students continue learning through the summer, Kumon is offering free registration in June at participating centers.

Develop their green thumb. Gardening allows children to not only play and build something — as they might do in a sandbox — but learn about the life cycle of plants and the importance of nutrition. One way to make this more exciting is to try to grow something giant, like a huge squash or zucchini that will provide an end goal to the entire experience.

Let them be your travel agents. Before you set off on your summer vacation, get your children involved in the planning process. Let them help you search for lodging within your budget and in the area you want to stay. Together, you can learn about nearby attractions and plan your visit accordingly. The entire process not only builds confidence, but serves as a finance, geography, history and social studies lesson all wrapped in one.

Have adventures in reading. Reading is one of the most important skills to maintain and develop. Reading to your children each day establishes a positive association in their mind and makes them excited to read on their own. Be sure to stay up to date with the activities at your local library, which provides fun and sociable learning opportunities.

Make something. While there are plenty of kits out there to promote STEM learning skills, you can encourage your children to use their creativity and knowledge to build projects from common household materials. Some classic examples of this would be making a raft out of empty milk cartons or plastic bottles, a homemade volcano using vinegar and baking soda or a homemade electromagnet.

Become a collector. A great way for children to get hands-on knowledge of the natural world is for them to build a collection while discovering the outdoors. Rocks, plants, bugs — these are the things that excite a young mind. Search for different kinds of leaves to press at home, then work with your children to identify their types.

Spring cleaning: 8 areas you can’t overlook

MyRentersGuide — Fri, 22 Apr 2016 18:25:55 +0000

Spring is here, which means it’s time to start cleaning. While a good wipe down can leave your home feeling clean, there are several overlooked items that could be hosting germs, dirt and dust. So when you’re ready to get out the broom, mop and rags, don’t forget to tidy up these areas of the home.

1. Bed pillows. Clean your pillows every six months by popping them in the washing machine. For the best results, wash two pillows at a time to help keep the washer balanced.

2. Washing machine. Run an empty washer through a “Normal” cycle to keep your washer delivering at its best performance. Whirlpool brand washers like the Cabrio High-Efficiency Top Load Washer also feature a “Clean Washer” cycle.

3. Dryer. In addition to cleaning out the lint trap, use the nozzle attachment of your vacuum to suck out any dirt that makes its way into the dryer. Then, wipe down the inside of the dryer with soapy water.

4. Electronic screens. Computer and flat-screens can get spotty. Give all of your screens a cleaning with a screen-safe spray or wipes designed for monitors.

5. Bath mat. You step on it almost every day, so if you’re not washing your bath mat regularly, then you’re stepping in leftover dead skin particles, soap scum and dirt after showering. Terry cloth and rubber mats can be machine washed while wooden mats can be wiped down with an all-purpose cleaner.

6. Dishwasher. That wonderful appliance in your kitchen does in fact need to be cleaned too. First, remove and rinse the filter (detachable cylindrical filter located on the bottom of the dishwasher) under the faucet. Large food particles can get stuck in the filter which may cause a funky odor. Next, place a dishwasher-safe cup full of vinegar on the empty dishwasher’s top rack. Run a full cycle, using the hot-water setting. Finally, sprinkle a cup of baking soda on the bottom of the dishwasher and run a short hot-water cycle.

7. Ceiling fans and light fixtures. Hard-to-reach lights and fans are easy to forget. Use a soft microfiber cloth to remove large amounts of dust on ceiling fans, and run glass light fixtures through the dishwasher to bring the sparkle back quickly.

8. Mattress. A clean bed means more than washing your sheets and pillowcases. First, use the upholstery attachment on your vacuum to remove any crumbs or dust. Then, blot or rub stains with a combination of hydrogen peroxide, liquid dish soap, and baking soda with a clean rag. Finally, sprinkle a light layer of baking soda over the entire mattress and let it sit for a couple of hours. This will absorb any excess liquid from the stain removal process. Hit your mattress with the vacuum once more to remove the powder and leave your mattress smelling fresh and clean.

To learn how to tackle spring cleaning in the rest of your house from the refrigerator to microwave, visit Whirlpool Corporation’s Institute of Home Science.

5 Biggest Myths About Decking Materials

MyRentersGuide — Wed, 06 Apr 2016 15:00:19 +0000

Whether you’ve decided this is the year you’ll add a deck to your home, or you’re still pondering the project, as soon as you say the words: “I want to build a deck,” you’ll start hearing and reading lots of advice. Some of it will be useful, like: “build the biggest deck you can afford” and “add features that fit your lifestyle.” However, you’ll likely hear conflicting opinions about what material to use.

Should you go with natural or composite decking? Your choice will affect how the deck looks and functions through its entire service life. And beware: there’s a lot of misinformation out there regarding wood versus composites. So as you weigh your options, make sure you know fact from fiction. Here, then, are the five biggest myths about wood.

Myth No. 1 – Wood is too expensive.

Domestic softwoods remain one of the most cost-effective decking options on the market. For example, a durable, long-lasting Western Red Cedar deck is considerably less expensive than a synthetic deck. And since composite manufacturers try really hard to mimic wood’s natural beauty with faux grain etc., it begs the question why pay more for a knock-off?

Moreover, according to Remodeling Magazine’s Cost vs. Value report, wood decks retain more of their value than composites when it comes time to sell. So a naturally beautiful cedar deck is a better investment all round.

Myth No. 2 – Wood needs too much maintenance.

Of course there is no such thing as “no maintenance.” But naturally rot-resistant woods such as Western Red Cedar require less maintenance than you may think. True, you’ll need to remove grime from the surface and between boards from time to time, as well as give your wood deck a thorough cleaning as needed, but that’s about it.

You may also choose to add a finish in order to enhance the look of your deck. Which is pretty easy considering Western Red Cedar is pitch and resin-free; and therefore, accepts and holds a wide range of finishes. But for the lowest maintenance option possible, you can just let your deck weather naturally, and it will take on a rich silvered hue over time.

Myth No. 3 – Wood’s beauty can be easily duplicated.

Wrong. Multiple national studies show that wood remains the top choice for deck building. Why? Its natural beauty just can’t be beat. Nothing looks, feels or smells like Real Cedar – although composite manufacturers continue trying in vain to duplicate the look of natural wood grains.

Myth No. 4 – Composites are just as eco friendly as wood.

Wood is the only building material that is 100 percent renewable and sustainable. Furthermore, untreated wood can be recycled at the end of its service life. By comparison, composite decking – even planks made from recycled materials – can’t be reused in any way after the deck’s service life is done.

In addition, wood actually improves air quality by absorbing carbon dioxide (a greenhouse gas) and emitting oxygen. That’s because when a tree is harvested, it traps carbon dioxide in its cells, keeping it out of the atmosphere.

Myth No. 5 – Wood is depleting forestland.

Not true. Real Cedar is harvested from the most sustainably managed forests in the world. In fact, more evergreen trees are growing in North America now than there were over 100 years ago.

As you gain knowledge about deck building options, you’ll learn more about why wood is a top choice for decks. For example, did you know that in addition to being rot, decay and insect resistant, cedar remains cool underfoot, unlike composites, which can get unbearably hot during the summer months?

For more information, visit RealCedar.com or download the free new app via iTunes or Google Play.

Money-saving moving tips for newlyweds

MyRentersGuide — Wed, 23 Mar 2016 10:00:34 +0000

First comes love, then comes marriage, then comes moving into a new house.

The big move often comes after the big day. Whether you’re moving in together for the first time or you’re saying goodbye to your tiny apartment and moving into a starter home, it’s an exciting — and often expensive — time.

Consider these tips to help streamline your move and save you money so you can fully enjoy the honeymoon phase in your new home sweet home:

Purge, sell and save
Did you receive new dishes or cookware as a wedding gift? You can probably ditch your old set. Host a garage sale or sell items you don’t need online to make some cash while reducing goods you have to move. Alternatively, donate to a local nonprofit and take the tax write off at the end of the year.

Determine what size moving truck you’ll need
A good rule is to plan for 150 cubic feet of space for every fully furnished room. Many young couples moving from a small apartment or condo into a larger first home will find a 12- or 16-foot Penske rental truck adequate. Plan to reserve your truck at least two weeks in advance. Ask about discounts when reserving; Penske Truck Rental offers rental discounts for AAA members.

Be thoughtful of wedding gifts
Did you receive gift cards for your wedding? Wait until after you move to spend them so you don’t have to haul extras. For the wedding gifts you received, try to keep them in the original boxes for extra protection.

Start early and pack smart
Get sturdy boxes of various sizes and fill them with similar items. Label each box with the contents and room name. Make sure you have plenty of packing bubbles and towels to wrap breakable items. Finally, tape boxes securely before transport.

Ask for help
Ask friends to help carry and pack boxes. A move is a great reason to get the wedding party together one more time. If something is particularly heavy, there’s no shame in enlisting professionals for help to prevent injury.

Loading the truck
Load large items like beds and couches into the truck first to ensure a safe and secure fit. Next, load the heaviest boxes on the bottom and then place lighter boxes on top. Need help planning? Penske’s Truck Wizard application makes packing a breeze.

When the big move follows the big day, there’s no need to stress. With a little strategic planning, you’ll save time and money while ensuring all your belongings arrive at your new home safely.

Cats are pet of choice for many millennials, survey says

MyRentersGuide — Wed, 16 Mar 2016 19:51:48 +0000

Move over, Rover. While dogs have long been considered the most popular pet in the United States, cats are a pet of choice for many in the millennial generation, according to research conducted earlier this year by Nestlé Purina.

Close to half of 1,000 survey respondents in the millennial age range (18 to 34) say they own cats, and many believe their cat is similar to themselves. Many millennials consider themselves independent, yet social. Fifty-seven percent of millennial cat owners say their cat is as important in their lives as their friends, two in five consider their cat to be their new “best friend” and nearly 50 percent say they tell their cat secrets no one else knows.

According to the Pet Food Institute the U.S. pet cat population is more than 73 million – or two million more than the U.S. pet dog population.

Perhaps it’s true what Sigmund Freud once said, “Time spent with cats is never wasted.”

More than 80 percent of millennial cat owners agree one of the main reasons they own a cat is their cat fits in well with their current lifestyle, perhaps because two-thirds of their cats stay entirely indoors.

“People like cats because they are great pets – they provide comfort to their owners and with appropriate socialization they can be warm and friendly,” said Purina behaviorist Sandra Lyn. “In addition, they don’t need to be taken on walks or for bathroom breaks and they’re generally happy doing their own thing, though they do like attention and cuddling.”

Pet ownership may also fill a companionship gap left as millennials get married and have children later than baby boomers did, according to a Wakefield Research study.

“The relationship between pets and people is continuing to evolve,” noted Lyn. “Through research and personal experience, the bond between pets and people can be viewed as an important part of improving quality of life.”

It’s unclear whether the preponderance of cat videos (and the popularity of “celebrity cats” such as Grumpy Cat) in digital media has affected the political correctness of being attached to one’s cat, but nearly three in five millennial cat owners surveyed by Purina consider themselves as “cat ladies” or “cat men.”

Many also see their pets as a form of social currency through which they can share photos and stories on digital media, according to the Wakefield Research study.

In fact, two in five millennial cat owners talk about their pets on social media, three in five have watched cat videos and half have shared cat memes.

In general, those identifying as cat people are 11 percent more apt to have an “open” personality than dog people, meaning they tend to be curious, creative, artistic and more apt to be non-traditional thinkers, says research by WebMD. Further, Purina found 88 percent of millennial cat owners consider themselves similar to their cats. Forty percent describe their lifestyle as independent, and 72 percent see themselves as friendly – with 46 percent motivated to own cats because they’re also friendly.

For more information about the bond between pets and people, visit www.betterwithpets.com.

Editor’s note: Purina’s online study about millennials was conducted among 1,000 subjects ages 18 to 34 in the United States between Oct. 16 and 22, 2015. The research firm was Penn Schoen Berland of Washington, D.C.

More seniors finding peace of mind, lifelong care at continuing care communities

MyRentersGuide — Wed, 09 Mar 2016 22:35:44 +0000

(BPT) - Are you worried you might one day outlive your retirement savings? Running out of money is a common concern, and the sad reality is it does happen to some people. The Administration on Aging predicts the number of Americans age 65 and older will reach 98 million in less than 50 years, so it’s possible many will struggle to take care of themselves physically, medically and financially.

Seventy percent of everyone 65 and older will need some type of long-term care at some point in their lives, the Department of Health and Human Services says. When health issues force seniors to require a higher level of care, they can quickly exhaust their retirement savings. The burden of caring for them either falls on loved ones or Medicaid.

A growing number of seniors are turning to life care communities, like those operated by Brookdale Senior Living, to preserve their own long-term well-being and to ease emotional and financial stresses on their families.

A life care community — also commonly referred to as continuing care community — charges an upfront entry payment and a monthly fee in exchange for long-term accommodations and health-related services. A contract formalizes the arrangement between the community and the residents, guaranteeing seniors receive the agreed-upon care even if their financial resources are eventually exhausted.

Here are some common questions about life care communities:

* Who is a candidate for a life care community?

Anyone older than 62 may be eligible to live in a life care community, if they meet financial and medical qualifications. Most continuing care retirement communities offer multiple types of accommodations — including independent living, assisted living, Alzheimer’s and dementia care, and rehabilitation and skilled nursing. This means you can enter the community at any stage, including when you are still independent. As your care needs increase, you can move between accommodation and care levels.

* What should I know about entry and monthly fees?

Continuing care communities charge an entry fee that is typically in the range of $150,000-$200,000. Many seniors choose to fund this fee through the sale of their homes when they need to downsize into a more manageable living situation. Fees can vary depending on the type of accommodations and level of care you need. Monthly service fees average $2,500-$3,500, depending on the type of contract. While the fee may vary slightly from year to year and depending on the level of care you need, your community may agree to cap increases; Brookdale voluntarily caps annual increases at the consumer price index plus 2 percent at most of its life care communities.

* How will entering a life care community affect my taxes and estate planning?

The IRS considers life care to be a pre-paid medical expense, so tax deductions are often available for portions of the upfront entry fee and monthly service fee — typically up to 40 percent of the fee. Because deductions can vary state to state, you should consult with your tax advisor to get a better idea of the tax benefits. Entering a life care community can also affect your estate planning. A life care contract takes care of the portion of your planning that would address funding your health care needs; the contract ensures your health care needs will be met even if you run out of money (through no fault of your own). You may also choose a refundable contract that returns a portion (up to 90 percent) of your entry fee to your designated beneficiary after you pass away.

* What are the health benefits of living in a life care community?

A life care community ensures your medical needs will be met throughout your life — without you having to worry about how you’ll pay for the care you need. The communities also offer mental health benefits. Live entertainment, special meals and events, daily opportunities to dine with others or participate in games and hobby groups ensure you’ll never lack stimulating activities or interaction with others. Life care also encourages seniors to remain independent for as long as possible, without restrictions on driving, traveling and shopping as long as you’re able.

“Longer lives and increasing health care costs mean it’s a harsh reality that many seniors will struggle to care for themselves later in life,” says Dr. Kevin O’Neil, a clinical professor of aging studies at the University of South Florida, and chief medical officer of Brookdale Senior Living. “The good news is life care communities can be a long-term solution, helping seniors maximize the value of their retirement savings, and ensuring they’ll have access to the care they need throughout their lives.”

4 nursery design trends you’ll love now – and later!

MyRentersGuide — Tue, 01 Mar 2016 15:36:57 +0000

(BPT) - When you’re decorating a nursery, it makes sense to design a room that pleases you as much as it will thrill your little one – after all, you’ll be spending as much time in the room as your baby, if not more! You crave a room that you can love for its beauty and functionality, but you also want it to be trendy and fun. Here are four nursery design trends that can help you create a room that fits your design tastes and will thrill your little one:

Whimsical woodlands

An earthy trend is bringing the great outdoors into nursery design. A woodland theme in a nursery is the perfect stepping stone to get imaginations spinning and curiosity for nature growing. There is a warmth and coziness that comes from nature-inspired decor. Think fuzzy animal mobiles, natural wooden accents, and a whimsical birch tree wall mural from Murals Your Way to create a space where you’re little one will feel calm and peaceful. Birch not your thing? Murals Your Way has thousands of nursery friendly options to choose from, or upload your own image to create a one-of-a-kind space- for your one-of-a-kind bundle.

Pastels are back

Soft colors and baby’s nursery go together like peas and carrots, so it’s no surprise that pastels are back and better than ever! On the heels of Pantone’s announcement of not one, but two pastels, Rose Quartz and Serenity as colors of the year, this trend is legit. These shades add a slight twist on the traditional pink and blue: Rose Quartz is a softer pink with a hint of peach, and Serenity is a periwinkle blue with shades of lavender pushing through. Other popular pastels are lilac, lemon drop and pale green as seen on Babyletto’s new Bingo 3-Drawer Changer Dresser, which has pops of pale green accents.

Creative cribs

Traditional nursery furniture has long included a crib, changing table and a rocking chair where parents can sit for those late-night feedings. Today, parents are thinking outside the crib when choosing furnishings for their baby’s room. Cribs can be a design statement instead of just a place where baby sleeps. From minimalist cribs with slender railings that evoke a graceful, modern air, to acrylic cribs that afford parents a completely unobstructed view of their little ones, parents are branching out from traditional wood frame cribs. You can also find oval and round cribs, like the convertible Stokke Sleepi Crib/Bed, compact and portable bassinets that can go from baby’s room to fitting neatly next to adult beds, and cribs that convert into toddler beds when your baby becomes a child.

Gender-neutral nursery

He or she, what will it be? If you’re planning to be surprised by your baby’s gender, design a gender neutral nursery that works for either a boy or a girl. Moving away from the standard yellow or green for “surprise” babies, start with a color palette using subtle tones, like heather gray, beige and rich charcoal. To avoid “boring,” layer in lots of texture and organic materials like natural wood furniture, linen curtains, fluffy pillows and soft rugs like the RH Baby & Child chunky braided wool rug in cream. A plus with this trend is that you can pair this gender-neutral palette with accessories of any color, should you want to add in a pale pink or navy blue blanket after the baby’s arrival.

7 steps to allergy relief with spring cleaning

MyRentersGuide — Wed, 24 Feb 2016 20:25:10 +0000

7 steps to allergy relief with spring cleaning

(BPT) -

Longing for allergy relief? To stop the endless cycle of sniffles, sneezes and wheezes, it’s time to ready your vacuum and rubber gloves. Spring cleaning helps eliminate allergens so you can relax, breathe easy and enjoy the season.

“People who suffer from allergies may not realize there’s a direct connection between cleaning your home and reducing allergy symptoms,” says allergist Bryan Martin, DO, president of the American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology (ACAAI.) “The more you can rid your home of dust mites, mold, cockroaches and pet dander, the easier you’ll breathe.”

ACAAI recommends seven spring cleaning steps to remove allergens in the home and avoid accidentally letting more in.

Step 1: To sleep, perchance to dream – and breathe.

Start in the bedroom where you spend eight to 10 hours a day. Dust mites can flourish during cold, dreary months, so wash your sheets and comforter regularly. Most mites die by drowning, but if you want to use hot water (which will kill slightly more mites) don’t use water that’s over 120 F because it can scald.

Remember to also wash decorative pillows. Finish by adding allergy-proof casings to the mattress, box spring and pillows. Keep pets out of the bedroom as their dander can cause symptoms to flare.

Step 2: Gaze out, but don’t open.

Window treatments are a magnet for dust and allergens. Pull them down and dry clean, or vacuum each thoroughly. Don’t forget to vacuum blinds and windowsills as well. Tempted to open the windows to let the spring breeze in? Don’t. Unwanted pollen can enter your home and spread everywhere.

Step 3: When the dust settles, wipe it off.

Suit up to win the war on dust by wearing protective gloves and a face mask so you don’t breathe in microscopic mold spores. Next, ditch cotton cloths and feather dusters that kick up allergens, and instead use microfiber cleaning cloths which trap and remove triggers. Wipe down all surfaces including picture frames, knickknacks, plant saucers and ceiling fans.

Step 4: Nature abhors a vacuum. You shouldn’t.

Move all furniture, and vacuum the dust and dander that collects underneath. Use a cyclonic vacuum, which spins dust and dirt away from the floor, or a vacuum with a HEPA (high efficiency particulate air) filter. Additionally, clean vents and return registers to limit dust recirculating. Consider shampooing carpets to remove deeply embedded allergens.

Step 5: Scrub-a-dub the mold.

In bathrooms, basements and tiled spaces, scrub any visible mold and mildew from surfaces with bleach, or borax mixed with water, then dry completely. The key to reducing mold is moisture control, so use bathroom fans and clean any standing water immediately. You can also help ward off mold by keeping home humidity below 50 percent.

Step 6: Change is good – for filters.

Keep the air that circulates through your home’s ventilation system clean by using filters with a MERV rating of 11 or 12. Change the filter at the change of every season, or every three months. (Set a calendar reminder to remember). Additionally, change filters in HEPA appliances. This helps eliminate allergens, and prohibits mold growth.

Step 7: Get out! And about.

Check your home’s exterior for any concerns that may have emerged due to cold weather. Chipped paint, roof damage or cracked siding can lead to mold problems. Make repairs as necessary.

These seven spring cleaning steps may take a few weekends to complete, but they’ll help reduce allergens all season long. For more information, or to find an allergist in your area, visit AllergyAndAsthmaRelief.org.

10 Office Organization Tips to Boost Productivity

MyRentersGuide — Wed, 17 Feb 2016 15:04:36 +0000

Empty boxes, piles of paper, pens strewn about – everyone is guilty of office disorganization. What most people don’t realize is a messy, disheveled office space can actually dramatically reduce worker efficiency and productivity.

A staggering 98 percent of office workers say they’d be more productive at their jobs if their offices were more organized, according to a 2015 Post-it Brand Office Organization study surveying 1,000 full-time office workers. That means it’s time to get organized and these 10 simple ideas will help you tidy up your work area and stay on-task for good.

Reduce and recycle
Go through drawers and get rid of paperwork and supplies you never use. Recycle paperwork and give unused supplies to coworkers or donate them to your community’s schools. If you’re never going to use these things, they’re just taking up valuable space.

Keep supplies stocked
Ninety-four percent of office workers are less productive when they don’t have all the supplies they need to work. Order necessary supplies like Post-it Notes, flags, tabs, daily planners, professional notebooks and pens. Then, put colored flags on the calendar to mark when you need to re-order supplies so you’re never without the necessities.

Rethink your desktop
A clean desktop is essential to productivity, however many people are guilty of having their desk covered with unnecessary items. If you don’t use it weekly, find another place for it. That means unused folders, staplers, tape dispensers, and the like can go in a drawer.

An office supply staple
Despite the rise of the digital office, Post-it Notes are still an office staple. On average, office workers use 30 Post-it Notes per week. Keep these handy note pads close by so you can easily use them to mark paperwork or write your coworker a note of encouragement.

Corral pens
Pens and other office extras like scissors, letter openers and highlighters look tidy when placed in a jar on your desk. A big jar can hold everything or use smaller jars to sort each item into its own container. Clear glass jars makes it easy to see what’s inside.

Think vertically
If you’re short on desktop space, think vertically. Walls provide ample opportunity for unique storage. One stylish and affordable option is to cut a peg board and place it in an open frame. This eye-catching wall hanging allows for easy access to office essentials.

Write it down
Sixty-two percent of office workers prefer to manage their to-do list on a piece of paper rather than a computer or digital device. Write your task list on a Post-it Super Sticky Note and place it somewhere you’ll see it, such as the edge of your computer monitor or the front of your notebook. This visual reminder will keep you on-task throughout the day.

Don’t sweat the small stuff
At a loss for how to organize paper clips, tacks and other small office items? Small tins are a great way to sort and store these office odds and ends. Place them in drawers so they are out of sight.

Systemize folders
Tackle that pile of folders in the corner and create a simple organizational system using Post-it Tabs. Color code the folders based on your work responsibilities so each tab color is tied to a specific task or status of a project.

Cut cord chaos
Are you always digging under your desk for the right cord? Black binder clips typically used to hold paperwork together are also great for organizing USB, cell phone chargers and other cables. Clip to the side of your desk and thread the chord through the metal to eliminate tangles.

Want more office organization tips? Visit Post-it.com/officeorg to tidy up and streamline productivity fast.

Survey details: The 3M Post-it Brand Office Organization survey was conducted by Wakefield Research (http://www.wakefieldresearch.com) among 1,000 full-time U.S. office workers in 2015, using an email invitation and an online survey.