ForRentUniversity.com has researched and selected five of the top greeniest campuses in the US. Check out how these innovative colleges and universities are getting serious about green initiatives and protecting the environment:

Does your college have a recycling program?

1.       University of Washington (Seattle, WA)

According to the 2012 GreenMetric World University Ranking (a grading system to place a numerical value on a university’s green efforts and sustainability) University of Washington (UW) placed #23 worldwide. This hydro-powered campus also received an A- on their Green Report Card (a college sustainability report card) and ranked as Greenopia’s (experts on green living) number one green campus from 2005-2013. Search for student housing near University of Washington.

Green Initiatives:

• UW spends 40% of their food budget on local items. 100% of the milk is hormone free and all food waste is composted.
• The university uses ultra-low-flow models for the majority of urinals and has reduced the per capita laundry water that is wasted by 25%.
• The university recycles non-traditional items such as electronics, wood, carpet, and construction debris.

2.       College of the Atlantic (Bar Harbor, ME)

All students that attend the College of the Atlantic (COA) share human ecology as a major and are expected to address social and environmental issues in their senior project. This green campus is dedicated to historic preservation, land conservation, green building, and eliminating toxins.

Green Initiatives:

• To gain a carbon neutral status, there must be a balance of removing as much carbon dioxide as is used. COA went carbon neutral in 2007.
• Local and organic food is served for every meal.

3.       Stanford University (Stanford, CA)

Stanford University received an A- on the 2011 Green Report Card and held Greenopia’s 2005-2013 number 11 spot. The university also searches for solutions for the Global Climate & Energy Project, focused on developing strategies and technologies to lower gas emissions. Find off-campus housing close to Stanford University.

Green Initiatives:

• University students participate in competitions two times a year to reduce waste, water and energy usage.
• Monetary incentives are given to carpoolers. Ride matching, car and bike-sharing programs, preferential parking, and free public transit are offered as well.
• The U-PASS program allows students to receive unlimited access to public transportation. Stanford’s student government also provides a nonprofit bike repair shop.

4.       University of California – Davis (Davis, CA)

The University of California, Davis (UC Davis) has won numerous recognitions and awards for their environmental efforts. UC Davis ranked #11 on the 2011 GreenMetric Ranking and received an A- for their Green Report Card. Their rank on Greenopia is top six for 2005-2013. The environmental programs at UC Davis are recognized for their innovation. Browse student apartments near the University of California, Davis.

Green Initiatives:

• Over 50% of the food budget is spent on local and organic ingredients and the waste is composted after each meal.
• Since 2000, UC Davis has incorporated low-flow faucets and several storm water management strategies.

 5.       Harvard University (Cambridge, MA)

Harvard University began their 2000 Green Campus Initiative to develop and become a model for campus sustainability.  According to the 2011 Green Card Report, Harvard University received an A- grade and is number four on Greenopia’s ranking. Look for apartments near Harvard University.

Green Initiatives:

• Students are actively involved in political advocacy and host events to educate others on how to increase energy efficiency and recycling.
• Harvard offers a surplus center to reuse furniture.
• Rainwater is used to wash the campus shuttles and recycled cooking oil to fuel them.

Do you want to go green in your apartment? Use tips from the Going Green section of ForRent.com’s Apartment Living blog for great ideas!

Sources: GreenReportCard.org, Mother Nature Network, GreenMetric

To have or not to have a roommate, that is the question! If you’re looking for off campus housing near the University of Florida, you might also look into whether or not a roommate makes sense. Here’s a list of pros and cons to consider when making your decision.

Pros for Living with a Roommate

• You can live in a much nicer place with roommates than if you lived by yourself. Browse your options for off campus apartments near UF.
• You gain valuable social skills by being around different people. Your social calendar may become filled with activities such as going to dinner or taking trips together.
• The utilities and other expenses are less expensive because you’re able to divide them up.
• It’s easier to request random favors such as checking to see if something came in the mail, catching a ride, or letting your dog out because you aren’t home.
• You can get help with items that you may struggle with, such as homework or something that may have gone wrong with the rental.
• Establishing long term friendships/relationships.

Cons of Living with a Roommate

• You might have to deal with other schedules that may interrupt your own, late at night or while attending lectures at the University of Florida.
• Roommates will need to label items in the fridge to prevent eating each other’s food.
• A chore chart might need to be established since many roommates don’t clean up after themselves (i.e dishes, taking out the trash, etc.).
• You might have to deal with the possibility of a roommate that doesn’t pay bills on time. This can cause inconveniences to you, such as having your electricity or cable shut off.
• Personal space can be reduced or altered in common spaces.
• Damages to your personal belongings or property caused by a roommate or their pet.

Choosing to room with someone is a huge decision. It is important to understand your own priorities and how this will affect your experience as well. If you decide to room with someone or are currently looking for a roommate, in addition to choosing an UF off campus apartment, be sure to go through the process of evaluating whether or not you’re both roommate compatible! For more related articles, browse the Looking for Roommate Tips on ForRent.com.

The weather is getting warmer, creating perfect conditions for a move. Discover great moving tips and advice from ForRent.com and Jamie from The C.R.A.F.T. Blog Tuesday, May 7th, 2013 at 8pm EST.

Be sure to RSVP today for a chance to win 1 of 4 $50 gift cards!

What are some gardening tools that you use?

There are many types of modern apartment gardens that allow even renters to nurture their green thumbs. Begin your garden experience with ForRent.com’s list of 10 essential gardening tools for apartment dwellers:

1. Garden Fork/ Hand Cultivator – Prep your garden by loosening and aerating the soil with a hand cultivator before you plant.
2. Gloves –Use latex or rubber gloves to keep your hands clean and dry. For heavy duty gardening, choose gloves that have the knuckles and palms padded. This will protect your hands from sharp tools and plants with thorns.
3.  Hand Trowel – Use hand trowels to plant small plants, bulbs, and seedlings. When choosing one, make sure that it is not too large or heavy. Also be sure to select a hand trowel with a rubber handle for better gripping.
4. Hand Pruner/Pruning shears or Scissors – Hand pruners are useful for trimming unwanted branches from small trees or woody plants. Scissors are great for harvesting small veggies, snipping herbs, and trimming dried leaves.
5. Watering Can – Consider getting a watering can with measure marks as well as adding reminders on your smart phone to regulate the amount of water you give your plants. Before watering, understand your plants’ specific moisture requirements to prevent over- or under-watering.
6.  Mobile Planter – Mobile planters are perfect for the balcony. Because it’s so mobile, you can keep it out doors or bring it indoors if need be.
7.  Gardening Seat or Kneeler/Kneepads – Enjoy gardening without straining your body by using a garden seat, kneeler, or kneepads.
8. Utility Bucket – An all-purpose bucket can keep all of your tools together, harvest your herbs, or be used as a planter.
9. Hat – A gardening hat can be stylish and functional. It can protect your skin from the sun’s rays while adding a bit of gardener flair to your wardrobe.
10. Herb Drying Rack – Dry and preserve your herbs to last all season.

These ten tools should help you get off on the right gardening foot, even in an apartment. Happy planting, renters!

Sources: Homes.com , BHG.com, & MNN.com

Calling all renters – ForRent.com wants to hear your moving moments! Are you still searching for your new apartment, currently in the midst of moving or just settling into your new place? Simply visit the ForRent.com Facebook page and share your moving story by May 1, 2013, for your chance to win $1,000. The winner will be publicly announced on or around May 1st. See the official rules for details.

ForRent.com encourages you to discover you, starting where you live – so be creative and be yourself! Looking for inspiration? Be sure to browse the Apartment Living Blog for ideas and share your Moving Moments experience today. Good luck to all participants!

Mobile apps are not only fun for gaming, but also helpful for studying and managing your course load. Imagine the convenience of being able to record notes on the go, quizzing yourself while you’re waiting for your friends, and getting reminders for exams. Consider using these mobile apps for studying and managing your schedule:

• CourseSmart – (Free Download) Access your textbooks anywhere you go. We all know that textbooks aren’t cheap. Although you can’t resell your books, you’ll be able to save big on using digital versions. [Compatible with: Laptop, PC, iPhone, iPod Touch, Android Tablets OS 3.0+, Kindle Fire & Nook]
• Graphing Calculator – ($1.99) Saving money is already tough when you’re living on a college budget, and buying a $100 calculator doesn’t help. For only $1.99, you don’t have to empty your pockets to still be able to complete your coursework. [Compatible with: iPhone, iPod Touch & iPad]
• StudyBlue Flashcards – (Free) Do you need to memorize 50 Spanish words this week? This app is awesome for creating flashcards using photos and recording voice. No more paper cuts! [Compatible with: iPhone, iPod, iPad & Android]
• Evernote – (Free w/Premium Option) Use this app to reduce paper clutter,  organize your lecture notes, record ideas that you have on your way to class, store photos you take on campus, and even plan your next trip. [Compatible with: Laptop, PC, iPhone, iPod Touch, iPad & Android]
• School Helper [Droid] or myHomework [iPhone & iPad] – (Both are Free) Manage your homework, classes, exams and more using these apps.

What are some other apps that you use to help you study or manage your schedule?

Temporary Decorating Solutions for Renters, Part 1 discussed using wall decals, tile tattoos and shelf paper for your space; now ForRent.com offers you three additional solutions to improve your décor without the worry of having to repaint, fill in drywall, or pay any fines before your next move.

Carpet Tiles
Did you want carpet but moved to an apartment or condo with unattractive hard-wood flooring or tile instead? Peel and stick carpet tiles for a temporary solution to transform your flooring. Carpet tiles come in a variety of styles you can find online or in your local home improvement stores.  

Temporary Wallpaper
Stay trendy by using stylish temporary wallpaper. Get an industrial looking apartment by using temporary brick wallpaper. Consider getting creative and adding it to the inside of bookshelves, pantry, wardrobe and even your steps!

Window Film
Window film is a pet-friendly alternative to window blinds and curtains. It is ideal for renters who want more privacy, pet owners who want to stop spending money on replacing blinds, or anyone who wants to add extra dimension and style to their windows.

Temporary decorating solutions are not just for renters. Whether you live in a house, apartment, townhome, dorm, or condo, using temporary decorations will enhance the beauty of your home and leave a lasting impression on your visitors!

Source: Homes.com, A Renters Guide to Temporary Improvements

Living in an apartment provides you with the unique opportunity to decorate your space using outside the box thinking. Temporary decorating solutions allow you to change your mind many times without breaking the bank. ForRent.com presents you with three ideas for Temporary Decorating Solutions for Renters. This part 1 post will show you how to enhance wherever you call home without the commitment.

Wall Decals
Wall decals are a popular choice for apartment dwellers because of the variety in designs and ease in removal. Try using blackboard decals or create your own DIY fabric wall decals that are budget friendly, easy to make and will not leave marks on your wall. Instantly add personality to express yourself using wall decals; Maybe walls do talk!

Tile Tattoos
If you are stuck with distasteful backsplash, apply your favorite tile tattoo design to dress up and transform your plain and sterile tiles into something more personable and welcoming.

Shelf Paper
Use removable adhesive shelf paper in your drawers to add detailing that will pleasantly surprise anyone who opens your drawers. Small details do make a difference!

Temporary decorating solutions are perfect for renters because they require little commitment and are often difficult to detect any changes when removed. Regardless, it is wise to check your rental agreement or contract to review guidelines on apartment décor or call and ask before beginning any project. Stay tuned for Part 2 to get more temporary decorating solutions for your space.

Source: Homes.com, A Renters Guide to Temporary Improvements

Are you a college student searching or currently living off-campus? ForRentUniversity.com wants to know what is important to you when you search for your home away from home. Share your student housing experience by taking the Off-Campus Housing Survey to be entered to win $250. Your entry should be submitted no later than April 15, 2013 at midnight. See official rules here.

ForRentUniversity.com looks forward to being your partner in your search for student housing. Thank you for participating in the survey. Be sure to follow ForRentUniversity.com on Facebook and Twitter for more resources. Good luck!

With spring just around the corner, ForRent.com, Homes.com, and resident organization expert, Chelsea, from Two Twenty One want to know what is inspiring you this season. If you are interested in learning how to keep your space clean and organized, participate in the #HomeChat party to get creative ideas! The Getting Ready for Spring Twitter Chat will take place this Thursday, March 21st, 2013 at 8pm EST. Follow #HomeChat to join the conversation.

Don’t forget to RSVP below for your chance to win 1 of 5 ($50) gift cards! Celebrate spring this year in your own house, apartment, condo, or wherever you call home by getting inspiration from Chelsea’s gorgeous home office makeover reveal, decorating with the 2013 spring color trends, organizing your closet, and getting smart with storage.

Spring is almost here! Are you ready? Now is the perfect time to freshen up your apartment and incorporate the 2013 Pantone Spring Colors. Here are a few ideas for incorporating the 2013 spring color trends into your apartment:

Rejuvenate Color Palette: Use props that are chartreuse green and lemon zest colored to bring in liveliness. Add a poppy red plant pot to add a pop of color, or grayed jade vases/or furniture pieces to mellow out any bright colors. Try displaying lemon and lime lamp bases, curtains, and plants in your kitchen, bathroom, or dining room to give the space a burst of springtime color and a rejuvenating feel. If using a colored lamp base is too much of a commitment, consider changing the shade only. Pair these colors with dusk blue for a complete fresh and clean spring-inspired room.

Fresh Color Palette: Give your room a sun-kissed look by incorporating nectarine colored accent furniture, pillows, or curtains in your space; pair with linen staple pieces, such as a graphic rug or couch, for a refreshing appeal. Pillows are highly recommended because they are very affordable, can significantly affect room décor, and come in every color imaginable. Toss in a rich Monaco blue throw blanket to add depth and comfort. Complete the room with a citrus fragrance, or make your own using fresh citrus peels, to bring the senses to life.

Relax Color Palette: Add lemon zest pillows and linen curtains to your bedroom to brighten the space. For a new look every week, consider switching your throw blanket to poppy red to bring the outside in or African violet for a playful look.  Bring in a special touch by with a lush emerald colored plant.

If you are interested in making a beautiful vignette or creating a wall display full of colorful frames and plates, browse similar articles in the Apartment Living Blog and Homes.com idea gallery for inspiration. Are you still unsure about how to incorporate spring colors into your home? Browse guides on how to decorate with emerald green, how to use white, and how to incorporate yellow to get started.

ForRent.com hopes these tips have inspired you to renew your apartment. Happy spring!

Looking for plans and ideas to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day? Celebrate and entertain guests in your apartment with these ideas for a memorable event:

Decorations
Many holidays and seasons have endless wreath crafts, why not St. Patrick’s Day? Create your own DIY St. Patrick’s Day wreath to embrace the festivities. Avoid putting a nail through your door by using a hanger to slip over the door or use ribbon and an adhesive hook to create your own wreath hanger.

 Source: Apartment Therapy

Do you want to try something different? Consider going for an Irish Pub theme and dress up for the occasion by asking your guests to wear argyle. Don’t forget to include a pub sign and add bar glasses and coasters to your décor!

Food & Drinks
Throw a potluck dinner or offer finger foods such as little ham and cucumber sandwiches with Guinness mustard, chips and guacamole, and shamrock cookies. Impress your guests with Irish beef stew, bacon and cabbage, or this recipe for steak and Guinness pie and mouthwatering shepards pie.

Provide drinks such as the classic Guinness beer, Murphy’s Irish Red Ale, or mix your own signature cocktail using this recipe for “green leprechaun”. Make it an alcohol-free event by serving a green drink like Hawaiian Punch’s Green Berry Rush or add limes to a lemonade pitcher instead.

Activities
Play Celtic music in the background to get the party started! Consider activities such as a limerick contest, dartboard competition, and watching movies like “Leap Year”, “Gangs of New York”, “The Departed”, or “Ondine”.

Fill small shamrock decorated bags with chocolate coins wrapped in gold foil as party favors for your guests to remember the event when they are at home. Learn more about the history of St. Patrick’s Day this week and get inspired by the ForRent.com St. Patrick’s Day Pinterest Board to get more ideas for this holiday.

What is March Madness?
Dictionary.com defines March Madness as an annual college basketball tournament, hosted by the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) where tournaments take place in the month of March. NCAA reports that 68 teams will compete, but only one will dribble away with the title of NCAA Division I Basketball Champions.

Where did the name “March Madness” come from?
According to Illinois High School Association, the term March Madness was used in an essay by Henry Porter (Illinois high school teacher & coach) in 1939.

How can I participate in March Madness?
Once Selection Sunday¹ happens, brackets and seeds² will be released. One of the fun aspects of the tournament is getting involved with bracketology³, which is participating in a bracket with family, friends, coworkers and other fans. Check out more information and create or play in a bracket from any of these sites:

• ESPN Tournament Challenge Men’s ($10,000 Best Buy gift card prize)
• ESPN Tournament Challenge Women’s ($5,000 Best Buy gift card prize)
• Fox Sports Bracket Challenge (1,000,000 prize)
• CBS Sports Bracket Challenge/Manager
• Yahoo Tourney Pick’em ($10,000 prize)
• March Madness Action

Get into the Game Time Lingo:

• Selection Sunday ¹ – The selection committee selects and arranges the teams that will be participating in March Madness.
• Seeds ² – Preliminary rankings. Think plants – The team may “grow” into a top team or “wither” when eliminated.
• Bracketology ³- The practice of filling out a tournament bracket with predictions of who will progress in the tournament.
• Cinderella Teams – Teams that are associated with smaller or lower-ranking schools that make an unexpected win in a game.
• First Four – Eight teams play-in to fill four spots in the tournament.
• Second and Third Rounds – Teams will be matched up based on rank. Higher seeded teams will play lower seeded teams.
• Sweet Sixteen – The remaining 16 teams in the Regional Semifinals.
• Elite Eight – The remaining 8 teams in the Regional Finals.
• Final Four – Regional winners advance to the National Semifinals.

2013 will mark the 75^th anniversary of March Madness. Don’t miss the opportunity to show your school spirit! Join the conversation on ForRentUniversity.com Facebook and Twitter @ForRentU!

Already think of plans for Spring Break? If you’re looking to have a blast with your friends without breaking the bank, For Rent University suggests one of these vacation spots:

Destination #1: South Padre Island, TX: South Padre Beach is growing in popularity as a hot spot for spring break parties. Oh

• Activities & Attractions: Fresh from the Gulf, there are numerous seafood and “Tex Mex” style foods that will have your taste buds dancing all week. There are plenty of activities for everyone, such as deep-sea fishing, scuba diving, parasailing, horseback riding and even bird watching. If you are studying to become a marine biologist, South Padre Island is perfect for you. There are plenty of educational research and nature centers on dolphins and sea turtles, so think about this spring break vacation as an educational investment.

Not only is it inexpensive to stay here, you don’t need a car rental to get to and from many of the attractions. You can get an affordable vacation rental for around $80+ a night if you book at the right time.

Destination #2: Daytona Beach, FL: With hotel rentals from $65+ a night and a prime Spring Break location, you can’t lose booking a trip to this location.  No wonder Daytona Beach was voted as “Trip Advisor’s Travelers’ Choice 2012 Winner” for the “Beaches” category.

• Activities & Attractions: Bubba Gump Shrimp anyone? Get your grub on with delicious and diverse places to eat at Daytona Beach. Visit the pier to go shopping, play arcade games, ride the Ferris wheel, or just enjoy the ocean view for some boardwalk fun. Are you studying to be an mechanical engineer, or just love fast cars? Don’t miss out on the Richard Petty Driving experience and Daytona International Speedway for extra credit.

Destination #3: Cancun, MX: Surprised? Don’t be – if you are traveling with a large group, Cancun is affordable! Rates vary, but a one bedroom can be as low as $90 per night.

• Activities & Attractions: International cuisine thrives in Cancun. Whether you are studying international affairs or are a big foodie, you will fall in love with new foods and flavors here. Explore the Mayan ruins, swim with the dolphins, bar/club hop, sight-see on the jungle tours or just enjoy a day at the beautiful beach. There won’t be a dull moment in Cancun’s active day and night life!

Memories and experiences are priceless. Enjoy Spring Break and don’t forget to send us a postcard!

Need to save more money for your ultimate Spring Break trip? ForRent.com has 10 ways for you to save for a vacation.

It’s important to make smart choices and change habits to save money. In Part 1 of “12 Tips on Saving Money”, we introduced six tips, from repurposing your wardrobe to clipping coupons to help you save some dough! For Rent University presents you with six more ways to save money:

#7: Use Grocery Store Bags instead of Garbage Bags: A pack of garbage bags can cost you around $10! Re-use grocery bags to line your trash cans instead – they are the perfect size! And although you have to toss them out more often, you won’t be dragging around 20 pounds of trash.

#8: Pay Bills on Time: This is more of a precaution. Late fees can add up, and there’s no point of going backwards. With a student’s busy schedule, be sure to set reminders on your phone or jot down due dates on your calendar.

#9: Avoid ATM Withdrawal Fees: Do you really want to spend an extra $2-4 every time you take cash out? Try using your bank’s ATM or use the ones at Wawa, Inc® gas stations to avoid those fees.

#10: Use a Water Filter Instead: Companies like BRITA® and PŪR® offer pitchers and faucet mounts that filter your water. We used BRITA® in our apartment to refill reusable water bottles, and it worked like a charm!

#11: Shop at the Dollar Store: Running low on dish detergent or need extra cups for your party this weekend? Check the dollar store for items that will fit the bill and help you save a few dollars.  The dollar store also has greeting cards or other house-hold items that can help you save.

#12: Stay In Instead of Going Out: My roommates and I would invite friends over and we’d play video games, watch a DVD movie, and cook a batch of Japanese Curry and rice for everyone. It’s a great time and we only spent money on dinner. If you want to save even more, ask your friends to bring their own dish and make it a potluck! When you do go out (because we all like to once in awhile), try to do it before 6pm. Movies and restaurants offer lower prices – plus there is less of a wait.

If you found this article helpful, let us know by leaving us a message below! Be sure to check out related topics on how to become a better budgeter, learn 6 ways to save money, and get some great ideas on simple ways to save money to help you pay for the other college “necessities” like textbooks, pizza, and soda!

Saving money seems impossible when you’re in school, with the housing, food, and entertainment expenses, but it can be done! For Rent University has compiled a list of tips on how you can save money on a budget.

#1: Walk or Bike to Class: Not only do you save money on gas – you get great exercise at the same time. If the distance is too far, take advantage of carpooling or find out if your college offers free public transportation.

#2: Use Cash Instead of Card: Watching money physically leaving your hands will make you think twice about purchasing those $60 jeans. Are they worth it?

#3: Learn to Mix & Match Clothing:  Speaking of jeans, instead of buying a new wardrobe, learn to mix and match pieces to create unique outfits. For inspiration ideas on repurposing your current wardrobe, follow Aubrey at Putting Me Together, and AskMen for tips on mixing up men’s clothing.

#4: Load up on Laundry: Coins for machines can add up in addition to buying detergent and softener. If you are able to, save your laundry for when you go home on the weekends. Drop those coins straight into the piggy bank, instead. Also, use the recommended amount of detergent and softener, not just a full cup– clothes will still be just as clean and save you money on replacing the items.

#5: Clip Coupons: Purchase your Sunday newspaper (remember, they don’t have coupons on weeks with holidays) and start clipping! Check your grocery store for double coupon days – these are days when grocers will double a coupon’s value up to $1-2. This means your 50 cent coupon will be worth $1!

#6: Change Your Grocery Shopping Habits: In addition to using coupons, plan your grocery trip ahead of time. Plan your meals for the week and make a grocery list based on your market’s weekly circular/flyer. Buy generic brands, they can be just as good as the brand versions, swap meat for veggies and buy in bulk. Don’t forget to prepare items over the weekend and keep them in Tupperware (or recycle your pasta jars); you’ll waste less, have more time to study and more money in the bank!

Did you think these tips were helpful? Share your thoughts or your proven tips below. Be sure to come back for Part 2 – coming soon!

With the Oscar® Awards right around the corner, have you ever wondered how some actors got their start? Oakwood Toluca Hills is an apartment community dedicated to families with aspiring child actors. It’s true; Oakwood  has been home to many famous, and almost famous, Hollywood stars. Jennifer Love Hewitt, Frankie Muniz and Hilary Duff are living proof for residents that anything is possible.

From the outside, you would think that this is just a typical apartment community, but the dynamics here are quite unique. The majority of residents consist of mother and child, who leave the rest of their family at home to pursue their child’s career, oftentimes in a different state. Even with the sacrifice of living long distance, they are driven by a desire to give their son or daughter a chance to become successful in the acting industry.

Children practicing their acting skills. (The children pictured are not from Oakwood Toluca Hills).

Oakwood provides residents with attentive staff members, onsite drycleaners and hair salon, luxurious pools, whirlpool spas, two high-tech fitness centers including private trainers, and plenty of outdoor space to play basketball, volleyball and tennis. In addition to amenities, they hold orientation and lectures to educate newcomers on the entertainment business. For residents who are interested, Oakwood also offers a Child Actor Program, where professionals in the industry are invited to teach workshops such as “Crying on Cue”. Some will even provide on-site tutoring and complimentary classes.

One of the apartment community’s luxurious community pools. Whirlpool spa is included!

Are you interested in living the life of a star in Oakwood or Los Angeles, CA? Studio rooms at Oakwood Toluca Hills start from $2,000 a month. Being so close to many of the major studios like Universal Studios®, Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc®, television news and TV show networks, Nickelodeon® and DreamWorks Animation LLC®; location seems to be a big factor. Even if you don’t have plans to move to Hollywood, you can still celebrate and party like an Oscar winner by hosting a movie awards party in your apartment!

Could you get a volley going at Oakwood’s tennis court?

What are your thoughts about Oakwood Toluca Hills? Is this somewhere you would live? Leave us a message below to let us know.

Need more storage, but are short on space? Incorporating multi-functional furniture is a great solution to help maximize space. ForRent.com suggests using one or all of the following suggestions to help you get started with a clutter-free and organized apartment!

1.       Ottomans

Not only does an ottoman function as extra guest seating, but they are handy for stashing away items like DVD’s, game controllers, blankets and much more. I recommend picking one with a top cushion that flips over into a mini serving table for an extra perk!

2.       Coffee & End Tables

Consider coffee tables, end tables, and even night stands with extra storage space and drawers underneath. In addition to using the tabletop to put down a book or your coffee mug, use them to hide items not being used, such as magazines under your coffee table, extra batteries or reading glass case.

3.       Expandable Dining Tables

Foldable tables can expand to serve additional guests for those special occasions. Hosting dinner for two or six guests? You’ll always be prepared! Go the extra mile and consider a table model that includes storage space in the middle “leg”; this is great for storing extra china and wine bottles.  In addition to foldable tables, go for stackable chairs – they tend to take up less space so you can make room for Pilates and yoga without bumping into anything.

4.       Trunks & Benches

Compared to boxes, trunks are very eco-friendly, so going green on your next move is easy. A storage bench is also a great multi-functional furniture piece.  You can use either to store your shoes, seasonal clothing, or for seating to put on your socks and shoes.

5.       Wall Beds (“Murphy” Beds)

Living in a small space like a studio can get cramped, especially while sleeping, entertaining, and eating all in the same room. A Murphy bed may just be the answer you are looking for. If you are unfamiliar with this solution, a Murphy bed is a bed that you can pull up and down from the wall. This way you can use it when you are sleeping and put it away when you are entertaining guests. Most iconically used for Caroline’s sleeping arrangements in 2 Broke Girls. If you can’t afford a wall bed, consider a bed frame with storage cubbies and drawers underneath.

We hope these ideas help you discover more space in your apartment. If you have additional tips or advice, we’d love to hear them! For more related articles and great ideas, check out our infographic on maximizing space in your apartment and our apartment living guide.

Are you excited about the 2013 annual GRAMMY awards and the Oscars? We are! For Rent University is asking you to cast your vote.  In honor of the GRAMMY Awards, please choose FRU’s ‘Best Study Song’ and’ Best Party Song’.  To celebrate the Oscars, vote for FRU’s ‘Best First Date Movie’, and ‘Best Educational Movie’. We want to hear from you!

Will you be watching the 2013 GRAMMYs?

Source: GRAMMY.com

Based on the 2013 nominations for the GRAMMYs, please choose your favorite from each category:

1. Best Study Song

• Katy Perry – “Wide Awake”
• Maroon 5 – “Payphone”
• Fun ft. Janelle Monae – “We Are Young”
• Ed Sheeran – “The A Team”
• Miguel – “Adorn

Created on Feb 8, 2013

View Results

poll by twiigs.com

What did you think about the Oscar nominations this year?

Source: Fandango.com

Who would you choose? Based on the 2013 nominations for the Academy Award (Oscars), please choose your favorite from each category: