ApexEstateBuilders

If you’re searching for an apartment in Chicago or applying for a rental in Austin , you’ll likely need to pass an apartment credit check as part of the application process. In this Apartment Guide, we’ll explain what an apartment credit check is, what landlords look for, and how to improve your chances of passing one.  What is an apartment credit check? An apartment credit check is a screening process landlords use to evaluate a prospective tenant’s financial reliability. By reviewing an applicant’s credit history and credit score , landlords can assess the likelihood of on-time rent payments and overall financial responsibility. This check helps landlords minimize risks when selecting tenants. What’s included in an apartment credit check? When a landlord conducts a credit check, they typically review key financial indicators to assess a tenant’s financial responsibility. What do landlords look for in an apartment credit check? They focus on factors that indicate whet...

As your lease term comes to an end, you may expect to renew your agreement or start searching for a new place to live. But what if the decision isn’t up to you? Landlords are generally not required to offer lease renewals, and in some cases, they may choose not to extend your rental contract—leaving you wondering why. For example, a tenant in a Los Angeles apartment may receive notice that their lease won’t be renewed because the property is being sold, or a renter in a Chicago rental home may find out their landlord is converting the unit into a vacation home. Understanding the reasons behind lease non-renewals can help tenants prepare, explore their rights, and take the right next steps. Here’s a look at common reasons landlords choose not to renew a lease and what you should do if your rental contract is ending. 8 Common reasons a lease isn’t renewed Landlords are generally not required to provide a reason for not renewing a lease , unless the lease or local laws state oth...

Signing a lease is a major commitment for both tenants and landlords. But what happens when one side doesn’t hold up their end of the deal? That’s where breach of contract comes in. A breach of contract in renting occurs when either the landlord or tenant fails to meet the agreed-upon terms in a lease. This could mean a tenant in a Los Angeles apartment failing to pay rent, or a landlord in a Chicago rental neglecting necessary repairs. Since a lease is a legally binding contract, violating its terms can lead to penalties , legal action, or even eviction. Understanding rental contracts and breaches When you sign a lease, you’re entering a legal contract that outlines the responsibilities of both the landlord and the tenant. This contract typically includes details like rental duration, monthly rent amount, payment deadlines, maintenance obligations, and other terms agreed upon by both parties. A breach happens when one party fails to uphold their responsibilities. Common exa...

A kitchen is more than a place to cook—it’s the home’s heart, a gathering space, and a blend of function and style. As 2025 unfolds, renters are seeking out modern, luxurious, and practical must-have kitchen features that enhance both aesthetics and usability.  Whether you’re searching for a new rental in New York City, NY with statement design elements, prioritizing smart home technology in a Berkeley, CA apartment , or just updating your current Berkeley, CA apartment with hidden storage solutions, today’s kitchen features balance style, functionality, and convenience. In this article, we present a curated collection of unique kitchen features that are absolute must-haves. 1. Bringing greenery and earthy tones into the kitchen “One kitchen trend that stands out in 2025 is incorporating greenery and stylish coffee stations ,” says Lakshman Mody, founder of Virtual Staging Art . “Homebuyers love the inviting, organic feel that potted herbs or hanging plants bring to a ki...

While it’s best known as the capitol city of Iowa, there are plenty of unique things to do in Des Moines that make it stand out. This spirited city hosts a rich art scene, diverse culinary experiences, and lots of local staples and traditions. To help us discover all the must-sees in the city, we reached out to some local residents for expert advice.  Whether you’re living in an apartment in Des Moines, IA , renting a house in the city , or buying a home in the area , there is something for everyone in this Midwestern hub.  What stands out most from a new Des Moines resident  Cristin and her husband Jarrett, founders of Wake Up Iowa , have been roasting and selling coffee in eastern Iowa for over a decade. Their new location serves espresso in the Lower Beaver neighborhood , where they have already discovered a number of unique things to do in Des Moines. Here are some of Cristin’s top recommendations:  The art scene : “You need not look far to find a thri...