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Many successful companies - both large and small - choose to lease their commercial real estate instead of buy. There are many advantages to being a tenant: It reduces upfront costs, lowers ongoing expenditures and gives you and your business much-needed flexibility.

The brick and mortar storefront for selling products and services can range in size from a small boutique to a large department store. As you search for commercial space for your business, it’s important to know about some of the expenses you may need to budget for so you can have a successful renting experience. Here is a list of possible leasing expenses we think you should know about.

Rent

Obviously, you know you’ll need to pay rent, but be sure to ask about how long your rent amount is locked in for, and what the schedule is for any possible rent increases. This will allow you to budget accordingly.

NNN expenses

These are triple-net leases where the tenant is responsible for the base rent, along with property taxes, building insurance and the upkeep of common areas such as lobbies, parking lots and restrooms.

Utilities

Most leases do not include the cost of utilities, such as water, heating, air conditioning and electricity. The leasing company may be able to provide ballpark amounts for these expenses, or you might be able to ask another tenant in the building. The range of expenses could be different depending on the size of the space you need.

Load factor

The rent amount of most commercial leases is calculated based on rentable square footage instead of usable square footage. Rentable square footage includes a portion of shared areas used by other tenants, and is calculated using a load factor.

Furniture

Most commercial spaces don’t come furnished, so be sure to leave space in your budget for furniture. In addition to desks and conference room tables, you may also need seating and decor for your reception and waiting areas, the stock room or meeting spaces.

Camden Management is here to help you find the commercial space that is right for you and your business. From office to retail space, we provide the support you need to run and grow your business. We have beautiful, desirable spaces in a wide variety of locations to serve your business needs, and we always help our tenants understand their leases and the expenses they may incur. If you are interested in expanding your business and would like to learn more about Camden Management, please contact us. We look forward to working with you and helping your business reach new heights!

Source of content: camdenmanagement.com/blog

It doesn’t matter where you live or how spacious your apartment is, the kitchen is never quite big enough for all of the tools and appliances you have on hand. By being creative and resourceful, you can fully utilize the space you have, and make your kitchen storage areas stretch further than you ever imagined. Here are eight tips for maximizing your apartment’s kitchen space.

Tip #1: Utilize your cabinet tops

If your cabinets don’t extend all the way to the ceiling, you can use the top of your cabinets to store items you don’t use often, like a cake stand, large stockpots, a pressure cooker or a roasting pan. If you have smaller items to store, consider purchasing decorative baskets for your cabinet tops. All of your extra kitchen items will be beautifully hidden in plain sight.

Tip #2: Use the inside of cabinet doors

The inside of your cabinet doors is a perfect place for an over-the-door organizer. Some store kitchen towels and potholders, and other types can hold utensils, spices, oils and cleaning supplies. Best of all, over-the-door organizers don’t require screws and nails for installation, which is ideal for a renter.

Tip #3: Use all the cabinet space available

Many cabinet shelves are adjustable, and if yours are too, you can add raised organizers to make the most of this space. This is ideal when you have multiple products of varying sizes on one shelf.

Tip #4: Make the most out of your under-the-sink cabinet

Most people use this area for cleaning products, but this cabinet is both wide and deep. It’s ideal for storing cookie sheets, muffin pans, pots and lids.

Tip #5: Use Command hooks

Available in different sizes, Command hooks are a great option for hanging mugs from the underside of your cabinets, storing lids and displaying decorative items. They can also be used to hang brooms, mops and light sweepers. Since Command hooks peel off, they don’t damage walls or cabinets.

Tip #6: Look outside your kitchen

If your kitchen is bursting at the seams, look around your apartment for other storage opportunities. Maybe you have an empty dresser drawer, extra space in a hutch or even some room under the bed. Utilizing other storage spaces in your apartment is a great way to keep items accessible but hidden from view.

Tip #7: Buy a kitchen cart

Kitchen carts are a versatile option for storing extra kitchen supplies and appliances in a convenient and decorative way. Some even come with wheels for easy relocation should you need the extra floor space.

Are you searching for a place to call home? Camden Management is committed to helping you find the perfect apartment for you. With many locations and amenities available, we’re confident you will appreciate the charm, beauty and convenience our apartment communities offer. Contact us today to learn more about Camden Management and get one step closer to finding your next home.

Source of content: camdenmanagement.com/blog

If you are a pet owner looking to rent an apartment with your furry family member, you may have a few extra hoops to jump through. Be sure you understand your apartment’s rules and restrictions so you can be a good tenant, good neighbor and responsible owner of a happy pet.

Here are a few tips to facilitating harmony between your pet and your apartment complex:

Tip #1: Know the rules

When you are researching apartment options, be sure to read their pet policy. Some might allow them, but there may be rules about the size, breed, number of pets, etc. Do your homework before you fall in love with an apartment that says “no” to your loyal companion.

Tip #2: Consider your pet’s temperament

Most cats are laid back, low-maintenance and independent, but a dog’s temperament can be a toss up. If you have a dog that barks constantly at people or other pets walking by, when the air conditioning kicks on or when the doorbell rings, it might be disruptive to your neighbors. If you really want a dog, look for a breed that is known to have a calm, pleasant disposition. A large, hyper dog that has energy to burn may not be the right choice for apartment living.

Tip #3: The first floor will be your friend

If you have a dog, living in a townhouse or on the first floor will save you the hassle of elevators and steps when taking him out, especially when there is a potty emergency.

Tip #4: Keep your pet up-to-date on shots

For the safety of the people and pets around you, make sure your pet is current on all vaccinations and parasite preventions.

Tip #5: Give your pet plenty of exercise

Most dogs need and enjoy fresh air and exercise. Look for an apartment complex that has walking trails or an open space where your dog can run freely or socialize with other dogs. Daily walks are good for both of you!

Tip #6: Clean up after your pet

It goes without saying that it’s important to pick up after your pet. No one likes to step in (or have their dog step in and track) your pet’s droppings all over the community. Always take a bag with you, or purchase a waste bag dispenser that attaches conveniently to your leash.

Tip #7: Establish rules and routines

Part of creating a happy, balanced atmosphere for your pet is by establishing rules and routines in your apartment. It’s important to be consistent. Your pet will be confused if he is allowed on the couch or bed one day but not the next. If you have a dog that chews, offer lots of chew toy options so they don’t go for your furniture legs or baseboards.

Tip #8: Get renter’s insurance

Most apartment complexes require renter’s insurance but make sure you have enough to cover any damage your pet makes. Even the most obedient pets can have slips in judgment. Cover yourself so you don’t get stuck with a serious repair bill.

Camden Management is committed to helping you live in your apartment successfully with pets. There are many pet friendly apartments in Kentucky and Ohio and we know how important these furry family members are. Contact us today to  Learn more!

Source of content: camdenmanagement.com/blog

If you’ve just launched a business or are ready to move your business out of your home office or garage, you will have to decide whether you want to buy or lease commercial real estate for your office space.

When you lease a commercial space for your business, you are renting it from its owner. Leases are available for a set term, at which point you can renegotiate if you wish to continue operating your business from that location.

Here are a few reasons why leasing commercial space would be a good choice for your business:

More Flexibility

When you buy commercial real estate, you have to make a significant down payment, usually between 10 percent to 40 percent of the property’s value. You are also responsible for the closing costs and appraisal fees. Renting gives you more flexibility because you don’t have to tie up as much cash as you would if you were buying.

No Major Repairs Or Upkeep

Significant maintenance problems and upkeep will be the responsibility of the property owner. So if the furnace needs replaced or the roof is leaking, you won’t be footing the bill.

Fixed Expense

Your rent will be the same each month so you can plan your budget accordingly. You also won’t need to worry about the incidental expenses that come up when you are the property owner.

Tax Breaks

As a renter, you can deduct your whole lease payment, property insurance, property taxes, maintenance and ongoing costs such as utilities from your taxes.

Expanded Location Opportunities

By renting, you can have access to prime, sought-after commercial real estate locations that may not be available for purchase. It’s usually easier to qualify for a lease than a commercial real estate loan, so you have more options of operating your business out of a highly desired office location.

Flexibility

When your lease is up, you will have the option to renew if you’d like to rent the commercial property for another term. This gives you the flexibility to change locations if you need or want to. You are not locked into a mortgage, committing you to a specific location and leaving you vulnerable to real estate market fluctuations.

At Camden Management, Inc. we are committed to the success of our clients and we know that happens when you have a practical, functional space to work out of that promotes productivity and teamwork.

Contact our team today to learn more about why leasing is such a great option!
Source of content: camdenmanagement.com/blog

Whether you’re starting a new business or looking to grow, the right commercial property is a key component of your success. You want to make sure you have plenty of space and are in a location that suits your business’s needs. Searching for the right property takes time, which can be stressful if you’re trying to stick to a deadline, but knowing what to look for can help you find the perfect commercial space you need to thrive. Here are a few tips for narrowing down your search.

Zoning

Before you start scouting locations, it’s important to know local zoning laws in potential neighborhoods. That’s because they regulate what kind of activities are allowed in certain areas. You don’t want to be stuck with a lease on a building you can’t use. Depending on your business, it also helps you narrow down potential locations as well.

Location

Location is key when it comes to business. Things like accessibility, nearby competitors, parking and neighborhood safety are all important things to consider when looking at properties. Before you consider signing a lease, research the neighborhood to make sure it offers foot traffic for example, if that’s important to your business.

Price

You want to make sure you’re getting a good price on your rent, and you want to stay within your budget. Check with your local Small Business Development Center to help find funding to make sure you can handle your rent.

Use a Property Management Company

Looking for the right property on your own can be a lengthy process. If you’re trying to stick to a timeline for opening your business, working with a property management company helps. They can speed up the process by showing you available listings with your goals in mind. That way you find the right property and stay on schedule.

Go Over the Lease

Commercial leases can come with a lot more specifics than residential leases. Depending on what kind of business you have, you want to make sure there’s no restrictions that can limit or hinder your operations and day-to-day functions. Luckily, leases can be tailored to meet specific needs and functions. While there may be specific clauses about operating hours, on-site equipment and clientele, you can likely negotiate on upgrades and on-site maintenance.

Find Your Next Business Space with Help from Camden

If you’re in the market for a new retail or office space for your business, Camden Management can help. Our relationship-based management style means we work hard to understand your goals and. So contact us today to find out how Camden Management can help.

Source of content: https://camdenmanagement.com/5-things-to-look-for-in-your-next-commercial-property/

If you’re in the market for a new apartment, you want to make sure you find one that’s the right fit. Size, rooms and amenities are all great things to look for, but there are additional factors you should consider before you sign your lease. Having a checklist of what to look for when scoping out potential apartments is the best way to quickly identify potential deal breakers and avoid getting trapped in a lease you don’t want.

Price

Sure, it has a pool and a balcony but does it fit your budget? Rent is one of the most important factors to consider when looking for an apartment. You want to find an apartment with plenty of amenities that doesn’t cost you an arm and a leg. Following the 30 percent rule helps you find your price range, create a budget and get closer to finding a new apartment.

Location

Location is another important factor to consider when looking at apartments. You want to make sure any potential new home is in a safe neighborhood that’s convenient to your needs. Be sure to scope out potential neighborhoods in the evening or on weekends to check for traffic and lifestyle differences.

Make sure everything works

Before you agree to a lease, it’s important to make sure that everything in a potential apartment is in good working order. Make sure to check outlets, AC units, drawers, fridge, and anything else to be sure there’s no issues with any appliances, cabinets or anything else with the apartment.

Talk to neighbors

If you’re able to, talking to people who live in the building gives you a good sense of what it’s like to live there. Residents can give you more in-depth information and insight into the neighborhood.

Property management reputation

Apartments that have professional property managers can help assuage your concerns about maintenance issues, as well as know there is someone to talk to about any issues.

Let Camden help you find your next apartment

At Camden Management we’re committed to your future success. Our unique relationship-based management style means your goals are always in mind to make sure you find exactly what you’re looking for. Contact us today to get closer to finding the perfect apartment.

Source of content: camdenmanagement.com/blog

Have you always dreamed of starting your own business, but feel now is not the right time? Or do you want to scale a business you currently own, but think the market is too volatile for your business to grow? Starting or growing a business in challenging economic times has been done before. Plenty of reputable companies were born during a downturn, such as Microsoft, Slack, Venmo, General Motors and Hewlett-Packard.

The coronavirus pandemic is another one of those downturns, but businesses will start and grow nonetheless. The US Census Bureau reports there have been more than 500,000 employer identification number applications since mid-March. Between mid-March and mid-April, the Small Business Administration issued $153 million in start-up loans and Stripe handled more than $1 billion in sales. While all of these statistics are lower than in previous years, it shows that good ideas — and consequently new businesses — are still being born.

If you have a good idea, here are seven reasons why now is a good time to start or grow a business:

1• Emerging customer needs

Whenever a crisis arises, new customer needs are identified. Think of all the opportunities that have emerged this year in the areas of virtual education, restaurant carryout, anything delivered, technology and healthcare. Customer needs drive business.

2• Less competition for resources

With fewer businesses launching now than in a typical year, there aren’t as many businesses to compete with for the resources you need.

3• Greater access to talent

Many workers have been furloughed or have lost their jobs because the businesses they worked for closed. So new businesses have a more skilled and experienced talent pool to recruit from.

4• Lower interest rates

When interest rates are low, it costs you less to borrow money for start-up capital. This makes those big purchases that were once unthinkable more of a reality.

5• Cheaper equipment

With many companies lowering the price of their products to stay in business, you can get better deals on equipment you will need.

6• Entrepreneurs are inspired by innovation

Start-ups have the innovation mindset and flexibility to adapt to the constantly changing consumer needs. The businesses that pivoted their business models in response to the pandemic are perfect examples of inspired innovation.

7• Customers are open to new ideas

The changing times have brought an acceptance of ideas and practices that were once a novelty. Online shopping has become the norm. Customers are willing to talk with company representatives through their computer instead of face-to-face.

Since now is a great time to start or grow a business, Camden Management is dedicated to helping. We are committed to supporting your business needs now and as your business grows. Contact Camden Management today to learn more.

Source of content: camdenmanagement.com/blog

You’ve found the perfect Camden Management apartment, signed the lease, and now all that’s left to do is move in. It seems like the stress should be lessening, but moving is one of the most stress-inducing situations we all face. Rather than stay up late and deal with panic, we’re here to help you make this move as organized and stress-free as possible.

A Month Before The Move

• Reserve a moving company as soon as you have your occupancy date. Many moving companies offer packing services as well. If you’d like to take advantage of this, make sure you ask about it while you’re making your reservations.

• Visit your local USPS location to purchase moving boxes and packing supplies. You can also get them at hardware stores. Don’t forget to pick up one or two thick, black Sharpies to label your boxes. If you do purchase supplies from USPS, complete your change of address form while you’re there. If you purchase supplies somewhere else, you can always complete your change of address forms online.

• When packing boxes, write the name of the room on both the top and all sides of each box. Leave out only things you might use in the next four weeks. Excluding suitcases and a picnic basket, everything else can be boxed, including artwork, family photos and back-up toiletries.

• Designate a space to put all boxes, whether it’s in each room or in one central location. If you’re paying movers by the hour, the more boxes you can have in one location on the main floor, the more time you will save. Keep in mind that boxes are normally placed in the moving truck last, so be sure there is room to easily move the furniture from the room first.

• Purchase extra-sturdy garbage bags so you’ll have no trouble tossing things out and collecting items you plan to donate.

• Arrange to transfer school and/or medical records.

• Notify magazines, credit card accounts, insurance companies, clubs and all other organizations of your change of address.

• Schedule disconnects for utilities such as gas, electric, internet, cable/satellite, water and a landline telephone, if you have one. Schedule connections for your new residence.

Two Weeks Before The Move

• Drop off any items you’re not planning to take to your new home to a donation center, like the Salvation Army.

• Go through each room and leave out only the items you’ll need for the next two weeks, excluding anything from the refrigerator and freezer.

• Leave out three sets of dish and flatware per person, and one large pan, small pan, cookie sheet, food storage container and glass cooking dish. Use any remaining food or drinks, and grocery shop only for absolute essentials.

The Week Before The Move

• Pack any remaining items except for what you’ll need in the last week only, excluding food from the refrigerator and freezer. For clothes and toiletries, leave out only what can fit into your suitcases.

• Clean as needed, taking precautions to empty and clean your vacuum before the move.

The Day Before The Move

• Pack remaining items into your suitcase except one towel and one change of clothes per person, the toiletries you’ll need for the morning of the move, and your portable device chargers. Give everyone one extra disposable bag for their soiled clothes.

• Pack a bag of snacks and any pet food you’ll need. Place in your picnic basket.

• Locate items you’ll need the first few hours of moving into your new home so you’ll be organized during that hectic time. This includes: pet care items, a screwdriver, hammer, medications, toiletries, and scissors or a sharp knife to open boxes.

• Dispose of any food that you’re not bringing with you to your new home.

Now that you’re organized and ready, your move will not be nearly as stressful. We wish you the best of times in your new apartment, and are always here to help with your apartment lease when you’re ready to move to a new location.

Source of content: camdenmanagement.com/blog

If you’re looking to rent a new apartment, it’s important to know which questions to ask and what to look for before you sign a lease. Developing a checklist with key questions can help you narrow down your search and find the right apartment. Here are some of the things you should be looking for to help you get closer to finding your next new home.

Safety Features

You want to make sure you feel safe at home and one of the first things to look at when touring an apartment are safety features. Do the doors feature sturdy working locks and deadbolts? Are the windows secure and do they lock properly? This is especially important if the unit is on the ground floor. And don’t forget to make sure the smoke detector and carbon monoxide detector are all in working condition.

Apartment Condition

After you’ve checked the apartment’s safety features it’s time to look at the condition of the unit and the available amenities. Is it clean and in good condition? Do the outlets and switches work properly? Make sure to check the water pressure in sinks and toilets and don’t forget to check if major appliances like the refrigerator, stove and dishwasher are clean and in good working condition. Lastly, inspect the condition of floors and carpets, looking closely at wear and tear on floor boards.

Building Amenities

Having the right building amenities are often a big appeal to potential renters so be sure to be on the lookout for what an apartment complex has to offer. Does the building have an on-site laundry facility or have washer and dryer hookups in the unit? Is there a secure, designated drop off area for mail and packages? Does the building have on-site maintenance? What are the procedures for after-hour emergency requests? Are residents designated parking spots? What’s the building’s pet policy? What’s the policy for trash disposal and recycling? Does the apartment have central air or window units? Asking important questions like these can help give you a better idea whether or not a potential apartment is a good fit and provides all the comforts and amenities you’re looking for in your next home.

At Camden Management, we’re committed to helping you find the perfect apartment. With plenty of options to choose from in Kentucky and Ohio, we work with you to understand your goals and objectives to help you find the home you’re looking for. Contact us today to get one step closer to the perfect apartment.

This post originally posted at camdenmanagement.com/blog

Attracting the right tenants can be difficult, especially if you’re managing your property yourself. You want to make sure your renters meet your criteria, but running background checks and creating listings while overseeing your day-to-day operations can be exhausting and time consuming. Working with an experienced property manager can help you find the right renters and tenants for your property. From crafting listings and advertising your properties to running background checks on potential renters, property managers can play a vital role in helping you find your ideal renters fast.

Performing Regular Maintenance

Regular upkeep and maintenance of your properties is one of the surest ways to attract quality tenants. Well-maintained grounds and buildings are a key factor in many renter’s decisions, and if you’re managing your properties yourself this can be exhausting and time consuming. Property managers can help keep your properties pristine, helping you draw interest from qualified renters.

Marketing Your Properties

Attracting your ideal tenants means advertising directly to them, and experienced property managers know where to advertise your properties so you get the most exposure and reach your target audience. From online listings, ads and promotions, experienced property managers know the best strategies and approaches for ensuring your rentals get the attention and interest that attracts local tenants.

Creating Listings

Nothing draws in renters more than a well-written listing, and property managers know how to directly appeal to your target demographic. As part of advertising your rental properties, an experienced property manager can craft an eye-catching listing that’s informative and concise that will hook potential tenants and help you quickly fill any vacancies you might have. They can also take fresh, high-quality seasonal images to make your ads jump off the screen.

Quickly Respond to Inquiries

Responding quickly to any inquiries from potential renters is key to filling vacancies. A property manager who is experienced at handling queries can easily get the ball rolling so potential renters can view your property and start the application process.

Perform Background Checks

Tenant screening is a vital part of finding quality renters, but if you’re trying to do it on your own it can be incredibly time consuming, taking you away from other tasks that might need your attention. Experienced property managers know the best practices and procedures for screening potential renters, checking references and background checks quickly so you can fill any vacancies with the best possible tenants.

Property Management Simplified

At Camden Management, we’re committed to the success of our clients and believe that starts by focusing on what matters to you most. Our relationship-based management style means we’re here for you. We work hard to understand your goals and objectives and keep them at the forefront of everything we do to deliver positive results. So, if you’re looking to learn how to attract quality tenants, add value to your property and drive down costs, contact us today to find out what Camden Management can do for you.

This post originally posted at camdenmanagement.com/blog