Lantern Bay Apartment Homes

Improve Your VIP Experience: Flexible Ways to Pay Rent and Build Credit at Lantern Bay

Wed, 15 Apr 2026 22:32:27 GMT

At Lantern Bay Apartments , we are committed to providing our VIPs with the best tools to manage their apartment homes effortlessly. We want to highlight the various ways you can handle your monthly rent, including some exciting benefits that help you build your financial future just by living with us.

1. The AppFolio Resident Portal App

The easiest way to manage your living experience is through the AppFolio app. It is a one-stop shop for your most frequent needs:

Convenient Payments: Set up one-time or automatic payments using a bank account (e-check), credit card, or debit card.
Split Payments with Flex: We have integrated Flex directly into your AppFolio app. This service allows you to split your rent into two payments throughout the month. Flex pays your rent to us in full and on time, while you pay them back on a schedule that fits your cash flow.
Full Transparency: View your current balance, previous statements, and full payment history anytime.

2. Build Your Credit for Free with Pinata

Your consistent rent payments should work for you. We are proud to offer Free Positive Rent Payment Reporting to major credit bureaus through our partner, Pinata.

How it works: You will receive an email invitation from Pinata to sign up for this service. Once you are enrolled, your on-time payments are reported to the credit bureaus.
The Benefit: This helps you build your credit score over time without any extra cost. It is our way of rewarding your reliability and helping you reach your long-term financial goals. (Please note: we do not utilize any resident reward or marketplace features through Pinata; this service is strictly for your credit reporting benefit.)

3. More Ways the App Helps You

Beyond payments, the AppFolio app remains your primary tool for staying connected with our Orange community. You can:

Submit Maintenance Requests: Easily upload photos and descriptions of any needed repairs.
Manage Renter's Insurance: Access your policy or update your provider details.
Stay Informed: Contact the office via text or phone, update your contact preferences, and access your lease documents.

At Lantern Bay Apartments , we treat every resident like a VIP. Whether you are looking for more flexibility with Flex or looking to boost your credit score through Pinata, we are here to support your lifestyle.

Enjoy the Holidays with These Activities in Orange, California

Wed, 22 Nov 2023 05:08:00 GMT

Enjoy the Holidays with These Activities in Orange, California

Summer is in the rearview mirror, and cooler temperatures have finally arrived. Trick-or-treaters have gotten their fill of candy, and colorful leaves adorn the ground. The changing seasons are a sign that the best time of year is just around the corner.

The winter holidays will soon be here, with abundant festivities for all. There is plenty to do in and around Orange, California, during the holiday season. Whether you like to keep things low key or go all out during the holidays, you’ll love what this area has to offer. From service opportunities to community events, here are some activities you and your family can enjoy in Orange, California, this year.

Run a Turkey Trot

Thanksgiving is a wonderful time to get together with family and friends and eat lots of delicious food. Heaps of mashed potatoes, turkey legs, gravy, and pie are friendly fare for your taste buds, but they can certainly take a toll on the waistline.

Turkey trots have become a popular activity for Thanksgiving morning to balance out the feasting to come. Earn your Thanksgiving meal by getting in some fun exercise beforehand. Many turkey trots have different course lengths, from kids’ runs and one-mile jogs all the way up to half marathons, so everyone in the family can find a run that works for them. Have a good time running a race with your friends and relatives in the morning before Thanksgiving dinner inevitably turns into a food fight over politics.

There are several turkey trots in the area to choose from:

The Turkey Trot OC in Tustin is a 5K on Thanksgiving morning that will get your blood pumping, but your legs won’t be too dead to get you to the dinner table later. As a bonus, this turkey trot is a fundraiser run by the Orange County Rescue Mission: While you’re running, you’ll also be helping to raise money for the hungry and homeless in Orange County.
If you’re looking for a turkey trot that even your littlest family members can participate in, the Orange County Turkey Trot in Irvine is a fantastic option. This race features a 1-mile dash, a 5K, and a “Gobble Wobble” for the little ones. You won’t even have to wait for Thanksgiving dinner to get a delicious reward—a slice of pumpkin pie awaits you at the finish line.
There’s no place like California to get your exercise while enjoying beautiful scenery. The Dana Point Turkey Trot has no shortage of incredible landscapes to feast your eyes on while you earn your dinner. Sign up for a 1-mile “Gobble Wobble” for the kids, or give the 5K or 10K a try. If you want a great workout, you can even sign up for the 5K and 10K together for a full 15K run.

Help a Food Bank

Thanksgiving is all about the food, and it can be a wonderful time to help the hungry as well. There are plenty of ways to serve through local food banks, even without leaving your home.

Consider donating to the Second Harvest Food Bank online through a virtual food drive. A little goes a long way—just $1 can provide the equivalent of three meals. The Community Action Partnership of Orange County is also a great place to donate or volunteer, whether as an individual or with a company. Check with your local food bank to find out how you can do your part.

Ride the Christmas Train

There’s something about the holiday season that makes a train ride so much more fun. Take a ride on the Christmas Train at the Irvine Park Railroad starting November 23 through December 23. The railroad is just a short 20-minute drive from Orange, and kids and adults alike will love the ride. Passengers will take a scenic ride through Irvine Regional Park, meet Santa Claus, and take in beautiful holiday lights and decorations. Be sure to bring your wish list and camera for photos with Santa!

Hitch a Ride to the North Pole

Just because you live in sunny Southern California doesn’t mean your family should be deprived of a super fun winter experience. If you feel the same way, then Orange County has just the extravaganza you’re looking for. This year’s Winter Fest OC runs from November 24 through January 7 and features over 1 million glorious lights, enough holiday decor to drive one giddy, a cornucopia of thrilling activities, a snow play area, a 150-foot tubing slide, a carnival, a holiday market, and plenty of food. Whew! Any Grinch’s heart would grow three sizes just typing that previous sentence!

New this year is the North Pole Journey, a one-of-a-kind winterland experience where wide-eyed participants learn exactly how to become an elf. Winter Fest OC will be chilling at the OC Fair and Event Center in Costa Mesa. Tickets can be purchased here .

Attend a Tree Lighting

Putting the lights on the house and decorating the Christmas tree are some of the most exciting parts of the holiday season. A tree-lighting on a grander scale is even harder to beat. The City of Orange will be hosting a tree-lighting ceremony on December 3, complete with a candlelight choir processional. Admission is free. The event runs from 3:30-7 p.m.

Enjoy Holiday Music

Ring in the holiday season with a pair of concerts at Chapman University. The 59th annual Wassail Concert will be held on December 8 and 9 at the Musco Center. Audiences will be entertained with orchestral and vocal performances of holiday classics. On December 20-21, come back to the Musco Center for Nochebuena: A Christmas Spectacular . This popular cultural experience features songs and dances by more than 150 talented entertainers. There is sure to be something for everyone to enjoy at these events.

Celebrate Disney-Style

Of course, everybody loves a visit to Disneyland any time of year, but the resort has something extra special in store for holiday visitors . All throughout the holiday season, Disney California Adventure Park and Disneyland have a host of decked-out attractions to enjoy:

The Festival of Holidays at Disney California Adventure Park is a multicultural festival celebrating holidays from around the world, including Diwali, Hanukkah, Christmas, Kwanzaa, and Three Kings Day. Enjoy great food, music, and dancing from November 11 through January 7. Of course, the Disney characters will be dressed in holiday garb, and none other than Santa Claus will be on hand with his elves as well for a visit and games.
Disneyland doesn’t do anything small, and the holidays are no different. The park is transformed with winter decor, including dazzling lights, wreaths, and other festive adornments. Santa Claus will be bringing a merry parade through town, and fireworks will light up the night for visitors from November 11 through January 7. And for those who prefer spooky over merry, Jack Skellington has put his special touch on the Haunted Mansion this year, and some of his friends will be on hand to greet visitors.

Decorate Safely

At the Lantern Bay Apartments , we want you to have a safe holiday season full of cheer. Decorating for the holidays is fun, but it can be dangerous if you aren’t careful. An average of 200 decorating-related injuries occur every day during the holidays. In addition, an average of 100 Christmas tree fires and 1,100 candle fires cause property damage and injuries each year during November and December.

Don’t leave burning candles unattended, and make sure your live trees have plenty of water. Throw away damaged or frayed lights and any with loose connections. If you’ll be using a ladder to hang lights, be sure you are on solid ground and don’t reach farther than you are able.

Orange, California, is a great place to live and visit any time of year, and it is even more special during the holidays. You and your family will love getting into the holiday spirit with some of these activities in the area. Whether you’re a fan of the arts, a running enthusiast, or just a lover of the holidays, you’ll find an activity to suit your interests in Orange, California.

10 Summer Activities in Orange, CA You Don’t Want to Miss!

Fri, 01 Jul 2022 18:13:00 GMT

How to Keep Your Pet Happy in Your Pet-Friendly Apartment

Tue, 21 Sep 2021 15:32:00 GMT

Did you know that 67 percent of US households, or about 85 million families, own a pet ? Pets are a big part of our lives and part of what makes our homes so special.

At Lantern Bay Apartments , we love pets. That’s why we have provided the best pet-friendly apartments around! If you are raising your furry friend in an apartment environment, here are three tips that can help keep your pet happy.

Plenty of Playtime

Just like humans, pets can become lonely and depressed . One way to avoid this is by giving your pet plenty of playtime. Personal one-on-one playtime is a great way for your pet to feel loved and connected to you.

You can also provide entertaining toys for your pet to enjoy on its own. For our dog owners, click here for 16 of the best dog toys in 2021 . If you’re more of a cat lover, here are 15 great cat toys to consider. Whatever kind of pet you have, be sure to provide plenty of opportunity for playtime—you may be surprised by the difference it will make for them!

Time Outdoors

For dogs especially, it is important to get some outdoor time to be active. Time outdoors exposes dogs to the sights, sounds, and especially the smells that keep their minds alert and active .

When living in an apartment, going to a local dog park is a great opportunity to provide this outdoor time. At Lantern Bay Apartments, we are lucky to live so close to some great dog parks! Here are a few of our favorites:

Each dog parks is less than four miles from our property, making it fun for your pet and convenient for you! Don’t miss out on the opportunity to live so close to these great parks.

Proper Nutrition

Giving your pet proper nutrition is a very important factor in your pet’s health and happiness. The right amount of food is necessary for your pet to maintain a healthy weight and to avoid obesity or other harmful illnesses . If you have any other questions regarding the nutrition of your pet, contact a vet near you for more information.

We hope that these simple tips will help keep your pet happy! With proper playtime, time outdoors, and nutrition, your pet will be feeling great in its apartment living space. If you are looking for the perfect place for you and your four-legged friends to call home, check out Lantern Bay Apartments for rent in Orange, California. We know you and your furry friends will love calling Lantern Bay home.

Soak Up These Four Summer Activities in Orange

Tue, 20 Jul 2021 23:22:00 GMT

It’s officially the peak of summertime, which means now is the time to get outside and enjoy all that nature has to offer. What’s great about living in Orange, California, is that you don’t have to travel far from home to experience some of the best aspects of summer like the beach, hiking, and exploring new places.

Are you searching for more activities to add to your summer bucket list? We’ve got you covered! Here are four of our favorite summer activities in Orange, ready for you to enjoy all summer long.

Pick up Fresh Produce at the Orange Home Grown Farmers Market

There’s nothing quite like eating fresh fruits and vegetables in the summertime. That’s why we absolutely love farmers markets —nothing tastes quite as fresh and tasty as the fresh produce we can get there. Because the food sold at a farmers market is always seasonal, you will have access to some of the freshest foods in the summer, like sweet corn and berries.

Our local farmers market, Orange Home Grown , is one of our favorite places in the city. Not only do they sell food from farmers and artisans who produce their food with integrity, but they also host a series of events, live music, yoga classes, cooking demos, and food trucks. This location is one of the most popular spots on a Saturday in the summer, and we can see why.

Take a Day Trip to Huntington Beach

If you’re looking for beaches near Orange, Huntington Beach is one of our favorite spots to go to in the summer. Commonly known as “Surf City,” this beach is home to one of the most famous piers in the world; over eight million people visit the pier every year.

Not only is Huntington Beach open again, but it is also doing everything it can to be clean and safe for its visitors. All normally allowed water activities, hotels, fire pits, and restaurants are open for at least 50 percent capacity. All they ask is for visitors to be mindful of others by social distancing and wearing face coverings. Less than 20 miles from Lantern Bay Apartment Homes, a day trip to Huntington Beach is one of our favorite summer activities in Orange.

Hike at Peters Canyon Regional Park

Peters Canyon Regional Park is one of the biggest parks in the area, featuring 340 acres of marsh and grassland habitats. Featuring a unique blend of native habitat and man-made influences, the park has a variety of roads and trails perfect for equestrians, mountain bikers, and hikers to enjoy. One of our favorite hikes is the Peters Canyon Lake View and East Ridge Loops . Not only does this hike bolster beautiful views, but it also offers a somewhat challenging path for less- and more-experienced hikers alike.

Attend Outdoor Concerts and Movies

This summer in Orange County, the OC Parks Summer Concert Series and Sunset Cinema Film Series are back! From June 18 to September 10, there will be 10 free concerts and 13 free movie showings. The concerts will be on Thursdays at 5:00 p.m., with the music beginning at 6:00 p.m. The movie nights will be on Fridays at 6:00 p.m., with the movie beginning at sundown. Visit the website to see a schedule of the events.

Summer is the perfect time to get outside and enjoy the sun. Whether you want to pick out some fresh fruit and vegetables at the local farmers market to enjoy for a picnic at the park, spend a day at the beach, go for a hike, or see some outdoor shows, you have plenty of summer activities in Orange to enjoy! We know you’ll fall in love with Orange, California, in no time. When you do, consider living at Lantern Bay Apartment Homes .

Lantern Bay Apartment Homes offers one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartments for rent in Orange, California.

If You’re Not Paying Your Rent Online, Here Is Why You Should

Fri, 04 Jun 2021 22:10:00 GMT

Worried about your credit score? According to a study by RentTrack, reporting on-time rent payments to the three credit bureaus (Experian, TransUnion, and Equifax) raised credit scores by an average of 59 points. In some cases, scores improved by nearly 30 points after only a few months.

Paying rent online makes reporting payments simple and hassle-free. Credit bureaus can easily access this payment information, it can be combined with credit card payments, and it can lead to an even greater boost to your credit score. Here’s how paying rent online will increase your credit score.

Makes Sure Your Payments are Recorded

According to NerdWallet , “A lot of people who don’t have much of a credit history do have a history of paying rent on time. But that information doesn’t show up on their credit reports, and doesn’t help their credit scores.”

How can you really be sure your on-time payments are being recorded and sent to the major credit bureaus? At Lantern Bay Apartment Homes , our online rental payment system automatically reports payment information to the credit bureaus. After receiving verification of on-time payment, these credit bureaus can factor your payment into your credit score. On-time payments are always a step towards a higher credit score.

Sends the Right Signals to Credit Bureaus

It can be hard to understand what actually makes up a credit score and how paying rent online contributes to yours. Experian considers use of credit cards, payment history, and applications for loans and credit the most important factors when determining your credit score.

When paying rent online—compared to paying via check, for example—your payments become a part of your payment history. This means that each on-time and in-full payment builds your credit and raises your score over time.

Combines with Credit Card Payments for Higher Score Gains

Because managing credit and credit cards is such an important factor in your overall credit score, it may be a good idea to pay your rent each month with a credit card set aside specifically for rent.

LaToya Irby, a credit expert for The Balance , says, “Open a credit card and use it to pay your rent . . . then pay your credit card balance in full each month. The timely credit card payments will help boost your credit score.”

Paying rent online with a credit card isn’t a requirement for having your payments recorded with credit bureaus, but it will help accelerate the increase in your credit score as you combine multiple credit score factors.

Easily increase your credit score by paying rent online through our online resident portal. Your rent payments are automatically reported to major credit bureaus, who will see exactly what they need to raise your credit score. Consider boosting your score even more by paying with a dedicated credit card. Sit back, relax, and watch your score soar!

AMC Holds Memorial Tree Planting to Honor the Lives of Three Outstanding Employees

Fri, 21 May 2021 17:20:00 GMT

On Thursday, April 22, three AMC properties held memorial tree planting services to celebrate the lives of three beloved and outstanding employees: Salvador Saenz (Serena Vista Apartments in Fountain Valley), Efren Diaz (Countrywood Apartments in Redlands), and Tuesday Beard (Lakewood Manor Apartments in Lakewood).

Salvador was an incredible individual. For 12 years, he came to work with a positive attitude and a smile on his face. He was always willing to lend a helping hand. From carrying our residents’ groceries to assisting them with their needs, Salvador lived a life of excellence and kindness.

Efren graced our company with his friendly personality, contagious smile, and strong values. His dedication to our residents shone through his actions and words. He was considered the heart and soul of every job because he had no enemies—only brothers, sisters, and friends—and he was an example to us all.

Tuesday Beard was a talented, kind, and dedicated woman loved by every member of her team at Lakewood. After she was hired as a leasing consultant in December of 2017, she quickly gained the recognition she deserved for her hard work and dedication to the community when she won Leasing Consultant of the Year for 2018.

These individuals have positively impacted the lives of so many VIPs across several AMC properties. We are honored to have known and worked alongside them. The beautiful trees we planted are reminders of the amazing legacy they left with us. May we cherish their memory always. Thank you, Salvador, Efren, and Tuesday, for your wonderful examples and kind spirits.

Looking for Eco-Friendly Apartments? Check Out Lantern Bay

Thu, 20 May 2021 18:29:00 GMT

While many people in today’s world have recognized the need to live more eco-friendly, there is still much room for improvement. For instance, 91 percent of plastic doesn’t get recycled, and this plastic ends up contaminating our environment and harming wildlife.

At Lantern Bay Apartments , we strive to do our part to promote an eco-friendly lifestyle. Some steps we have taken to go green include implementing drought-tolerant landscaping, installing low-flow toilets, moving our paperwork online, having bottle refill stations, and encouraging recycling. If you are looking for eco-friendly apartments, Lantern Bay is the place for you!

Drought-Tolerant Landscape

Since Orange, CA, is prone to droughts, we have implemented drought-tolerant landscaping. This means we use plants that don’t require much water, such as succulents. We have also installed a drip irrigation system and limit the number of grass areas that require watering. This setup allows us to save gallons of water each day!

Low-Flow Toilets

In the apartments, we save water with our low-flow toilets . While most toilets use about 3.5 gallons of water every time they flush, ours use about 20 percent less. Each low-flow toilet can surprisingly save up to 13,000 gallons of water per year.

Paperless Processes

At Lantern Bay, we save paper by moving our paperwork online, including applications, rent payments, service requests, and notices. Not only does this eliminate the need for unnecessary paper waste, but it is also much more convenient for residents.

In our community, we strive to provide quality services to help make your life as a resident a little easier. Visit our new resident portal to pay your rent online, enter a maintenance service request, browse our calendar for upcoming activities, and much more!

Bottle Refill Station

We have a bottle refill station on the property, so there is no need to buy disposable plastic water bottles; residents can simply refill their reusable bottles whenever they need to.

Recycling

One of the best ways to live green is to recycle. We have recycling bins in our office, and we encourage all residents to recycle as well. Here are some things you can and can’t recycle :

Here in Orange, you can recycle at Next Generation Recycling . Making this extra effort to recycle can make a huge difference for our planet.

We’re Excited to Announce Organic Waste Recycling!

Organic waste recycling will be coming soon to our local community, and we can’t wait to participate! This initiative will help keep millions of pounds of food waste out of landfills and turn them into compost and renewable natural gas . We’ll keep you up to date as this program expands throughout the state.

We want to do everything we can to promote eco-friendly living. If you are looking for an apartment complex that cares as much about the earth as you do, Lantern Bay Apartments is the perfect place for you!

Looking for Apartments in Orange, CA? Learn Why You Should Choose Lantern Bay

Fri, 16 Apr 2021 22:37:00 GMT

Disneyland , Knotts Berry Farm , Angel Stadium , and more—Orange, California, is close to it all! If you like riding roller coasters or watching baseball games, Orange is definitely an exciting place to be.

Are you looking for apartments in Orange? Lantern Bay Apartments in Orange, California, is the perfect choice. With amazing features and amenities and beautiful landscaping and design, your apartment will feel just like home.

Apartment Features

Our newly-renovated apartments are just one level and have private patios, so they feel like homey cottages. They also have a beautiful interior with wood-style flooring, custom cabinets, and quartz countertops. Here are some of the other features:

Outdoors and Amenities

Outside the apartments, Lantern Bay has many wonderful amenities . Some popular amenities include the fitness center, pool, and heated jacuzzi. In addition, our staff does an amazing job with the landscaping and upkeep of the property and apartments. They respond to work requests quickly, and all parts of the property are kept clean and well maintained. Our staff is friendly and willing to help you—or just get to know you!

Pet-Friendly Property

Have you been searching for apartments in Orange to bring a pet to? Lantern Bay is the perfect place for that, too. Tons of our residents own pets, and we have a dog run where they can play and socialize with the other pets. We will also be installing a dog wash station soon. You and your pet will both love living at Lantern Bay!

If you are looking for apartments in Orange, consider checking out Lantern Bay. You will enjoy a luxurious living space, lush landscaping, great amenities, and a perfect location for all the exciting things to do and see near Orange! Contact us today to schedule a tour!

The Life of a Pet at Lantern Bay

Wed, 23 Dec 2020 21:03:00 GMT

A happy dog chasing his tail, a sweet snuggly cat, or a chameleon changing colors—pets make life so rich and fun! We are proud to be a pet-friendly apartment community so our residents can enjoy the benefits of pet ownership. Read on to learn more about why we love pets, our regulations, and where to take your pets when living at Lantern Bay Apartment Homes.

Why We Love Pets

Happiness is a cute pet! Plus, there are scientifically proven health benefits of pet ownership. Here are a few that the Ohio State University Veterinary Medical Center identified:

Pets can also have amazing benefits for children specifically, including the following:

Regulations for Our Community’s Pets

Here are some things to keep in mind before bringing home a pet to your Lantern Bay apartment:

While outside of your apartment with your dog, we ask that you keep your dog on a leash. We also have Pet Waste Stations located throughout the property, making it easy to pick up after your pet!

Where to Take Your Furry Friend to Stretch Their Legs

We love our on-site dog park! It’s perfect for your dog to play and meet other furry friends. There are also great dog parks nearby, like the Olive Hills Dog Park just 10 minutes away in Anaheim, which has a walking path and agility equipment.

We are so happy when our residents have pets that help make their lives happier! Call us today if you have any questions about keeping a pet at Lantern Bay Apartments.

Appliance Maintenance Tips before the Holidays

Tue, 10 Nov 2020 23:24:00 GMT

Ready to make some holiday memories? Thinking back to previous years, some of our favorite memories are traditional, like roasting the perfect Thanksgiving turkey, baking dozens of holiday cookies, and plugging in twinkling lights. But others are things you might not normally think of, but are a huge part of the holiday season, like flipping the thermostat from cold to heat for the first time and even spending a few extra minutes warming up in a hot shower each morning.

A memory we don’t want to create is a last-minute panic when a kitchen appliance doesn’t work properly. The good news is you can take steps to prevent this from happening! Keep reading to see our appliance maintenance tips so you can ensure a truly magical season for you and your loved ones.

Tip #1: Deep Clean to Prevent Breakdown

We rely on our kitchen appliances to always work for us, but these complex machines sometimes face problems. In a Consumer Reports survey, 6 percent of respondents reported problems with cooking elements not lighting or heating up on ranges, 5 percent of people reported refrigerators that didn’t cool properly, and 11 percent of people said their dishwashers stopped properly cleaning. Don’t let it happen to you!

Deep clean your oven and stove, making sure nothing is preventing the heating elements or gas burners from heating or igniting fully. Pull your fridge away from the wall and clean out the dust from the mechanical coils . Finally, make sure your dishwasher is washed! Set a single dishwasher-safe cup of white vinegar on the top rack and run a full cycle. Once you’ve taken these steps, you’re on your way to a happier holiday season.

Tip #2: Plan a Cooking Test Run

If you’re not usually big on cooking but plan to create a delicious holiday meal from scratch, now is the time to test everything out to alleviate the stress that can come from creating a large holiday meal. A couple of weeks before the event, turn on the oven and fire up the stove to try out a couple of your recipes. Then load everything into the dishwasher to make sure each dish comes out sparkly clean. If something isn’t quite right with your appliances, you’ll have plenty of time to have them repaired before the day of your small event.

Tip #3: Reach Out to Our Maintenance Crew

At Lantern Bay Apartments, we aim to help you have an amazing holiday season. Our on-site management and 24-hour maintenance teams are a big part of that. They are ready to help if you are having any sort of problems with your appliances.

If any of your appliances are giving you trouble, simply visit the Lantern Bay Apartments Resident Portal and submit a work order. We will schedule a time for the repair, so your holiday plans can stay on track.

There’s nothing like a delicious meal to get us into the holiday spirit. Prevent any appliance mishaps by following our appliance maintenance tips. The entire staff here at Lantern Bay Apartments sincerely wishes you the best holiday season!

Three Pros of Renting an Apartment

Fri, 30 Oct 2020 00:32:00 GMT

About one-third of Americans are renters. That’s 100 million people who are renting homes, apartments, and other properties across the country. And the number is growing!

There are lots of reasons these 100 million people aren’t buying, and more and more people are recognizing the pros of renting an apartment. With lower upfront costs, less responsibility, and flexibility when it comes to moving, renting is a great option!

Lower Upfront and Long-Term Costs

In a recent study, 82 percent of renters said renting is more affordable than owning, and it’s easy to see why! Owning a home involves a lot of different expenses—some you can count on, but others come out of nowhere. On top of insurance and taxes, there are maintenance costs and often-unexpected repairs. On the other hand, renting has a set cost you can expect.

Upfront costs are dramatically different between renting and buying. To purchase a home with a mortgage, you’d need to gather a down payment, earnest money, and then any funds you need for up-front repairs or upgrades. When you rent, on the other hand, all you need is a security deposit, which is usually equal to one month’s rent, and which you usually receive back when you move out. That low up-front cost is definitely one of the pros of renting an apartment!

Then there are your costs over time, like insurance and taxes. While homeowners need to pay property tax and homeowner’s insurance, renters can purchase renter’s insurance, which is much more affordable. According to a 2017 study by the Insurance Information Institute , the average renter’s insurance policy costs $180 per year, while the average homeowner’s policy costs $1,211.

No Worries about Maintenance or Repairs

Broken gutters, leaky faucet, and missing shingles? For a homeowner, these aren’t just problems—they’re expenses and chores. For renters, on the other hand, a leaky faucet is nothing to stress about . At Lantern Bay Apartments, for example, we have knowledgeable and friendly staff who are trained and certified to make repairs. When you report something that needs attention, our team will be sure to help.

Flexibility with Moving

One of the greatest pros of renting an apartment is the freedom it gives you to live wherever you want. While a mortgage can tie you down for 15 or 30 years, a lease is relatively short.

“Mobility is one of the top reasons people decide to rent,” says Robert Pinnegar , president and CEO of the National Apartment Association. “For millennials just entering the workforce or in the process of building their careers, the ability to relocate is a major factor. Even if they are in a financial position to purchase a home, millennials may choose to rent to have the flexibility to take advantage of new job opportunities as they arise.”

If you decide to move out of Lantern Bay apartments, we want to be sure that you are taken care of wherever you go. If you move from here to another AMC property or vice versa, we’ll give you a $250 loyalty bonus to help you hit the ground running.

With a difference in costs, less responsibility, and more flexibility, it’s easy to see why people are choosing to rent more and more. At Lantern Bay Apartments, we want to make coming home the best part of your day; give us a visit and see how the pros of renting an apartment can benefit your life.

Wondering Why You Should Pay Rent Online? Two Words: Build Credit

Thu, 06 Aug 2020 15:44:00 GMT

When it comes to paying rent, there’s not much of a difference between paying online or paying by cash or check, is there? There may not be too much of a difference on the surface, but paying rent online has an added benefit: it can help you build credit! In fact, one study of 12,000 renters found that renters’ scores rose an average of 16 points within six months, benefiting those who started with a credit score below 620 the most.

When you pay rent online with us, we automatically report your payments to credit bureaus, which shows them that you are a responsible bill-payer. Plus, these payments can combine with credit card payments to increase your score even more. Keep reading to learn how!

Step 1: Get Your Payments Reported to Credit Bureaus

Not all rental communities report payments to credit bureaus, which means that paying rent usually doesn’t affect a renter’s credit score. But in cases where those payments are reported, they can help build credit, “especially if you are new to credit or do not have a lot of experience using it,” says Bev O’Shea at NerdWallet.

So how do you get a record of your payments to the credit bureaus? At Lantern Bay Apartments, our online rental payment system automatically reports information to the credit bureaus so you don’t have to. As credit bureaus receive a record of your on-time rental payments, your credit score is likely to improve. In order to opt in for the credit reporting, follow these steps:

Step 2: Maintain Those On-Time Payments to Show Credit Bureaus You Are Responsible

What makes up a credit score? Things like your loan payment history , the credit cards you use, and applying for new loans or credit. So where does paying rent fit into that? As you pay rent online, those payments become part of your payment history. And as you keep paying on time and in full, that impressive record becomes part of your score, too.

Step 3: Consider Paying Rent with a Dedicated Credit Card

Have you ever gotten a credit card just to pay for something specific, like gas for your car? Consider using a credit card just to pay for your rent, “then pay your credit card balance in full each month,” says LaToya Irby, credit expert for The Balance. “The timely credit card payments will help boost your credit score.” Paying with a credit card or not is totally up to you, but it’s an easy way to build your credit since you’re paying rent anyway!

Building your credit is as easy as one, two, three! Hop on over to the resident portal and try paying your rent online. You might just build credit as we report your payments to the credit bureaus and pay with a credit card. Give it a try!

Craving Bagels? Here are Three Local Bagel Shops You Need in Your Life

Thu, 23 Jul 2020 02:31:00 GMT

July 26 is National Bagelfest Day! For generations, dating back to New York City at the turn of the 20th century, bagels have been the basis of a perfect kosher Sunday breakfast, typically served with thinly sliced smoked salmon and cream cheese and occasionally including capers, tomato, and red onion.

Throughout the decades, bagels have happily evolved. Now you can find both savory and sweet bagels, which can be simply dressed with a flavored cream cheese schmear or sliced and filled with your favorite sandwich fixings. Now that you’re sufficiently craving bagels, here are three great local bagel shops to check out.

Bagel Me

At the Orange Circle location of Bagel Me , you can select from nearly two dozen bagel flavors—everything from a savory garlic or a spicy jalapeño bagel to a sweet cinnamon raisin or even chocolate chip bagel. And then there are the flavored cream cheeses like veggie or honey almond. In addition to simple schmeared bagels and bagel sandwiches, you can also order up bagel French toast for a fun fusion of two breakfast favorites.

Bruegger’s Bagels

If you are looking for some unique bagel and cream cheese flavor combinations, head over to Bruegger’s Bagels in Santa Ana, where they serve up some gourmet options. For instance, you could top a toasted Cheesy Hashbrowns bagel with a heaping dollop of bacon scallion cream cheese, or try a Five Cheese bagel spiced up with a sriracha honey cream cheese.

Dough Exchange

With a name as deliciously alluring as Dough Exchange , you’re sure to find a variety of options in this nearby Santa Ana bagel shop. Yelp reviews rave over this bakery, highlighting the unique international flavors, which include the Japanese sesame salt Shio Gomo, the Middle Eastern Aa’atar, and the Italian-inspired Cacio y Pepe bagel.

No matter your bagel preferences, there are three delicious bakery options in the area sure to satisfy your doughy cravings. Try them out and let us know your favorite. Happy National Bagelfest Day!

How to Generate More Happiness and Positivity Online

Tue, 30 Jun 2020 17:52:00 GMT

Believe it or not, 79 percent of Americans are on social media. Facebook has more than 1.4 billion users , who watch 8 billion videos and upload, on average, 300 photos per day. Instagram has more than 500 million active users , who upload more than 96 photos and stories per day.

With so many people active on social media, it’s crucial we keep it welcoming, uplifting space. Here are three ways to generate more happiness and positivity online.

Be Good to People You Meet

Platforms like Instagram , Twitter , and YouTube allow you to converse with users easily that you may not be following. Use opportunities like these to meet people—not just in Orange but around the world—build relationships, and learn from their experiences. Give strangers the benefit of the doubt and remember that they could be experiencing hardships you don’t see on the surface.

Spread the Positive Content

When it comes to content you post, ensure that it spreads happiness, uplifts, and encourages. If you come across content online that doesn’t, do not be afraid to report it. Many platforms have content guidelines and want to get rid of the hurtful and negative content as much as we all do.

Don’t Follow the Bad Stuff

Have you ever heard someone say, “You’re the average of the five people you spend the most time with?” The same can be said for those you interact with on social media. By following positive brands and people, you’re more likely to feel happier as you scroll through news feeds. If a page that used to make you feel good no longer does, do not be afraid to unfollow. By choosing to follow positive links, you can fill your mind and feed with uplifting messages.

If you happen to use social media, follow our tips to generate more happiness and positivity online. Be nice to those you interact with, spread good content, and follow only the uplifting accounts. If you do, your feed will change and so will you.

4 Exercise Routines You Can Do at Home

Wed, 17 Jun 2020 04:26:00 GMT

Among all the lifestyle changes we’ve had to make due to the coronavirus, transitioning from our regular sweat sessions at the Orange County Strength Club or OC Fitness to our front room has not been easy. No longer do we have access to the ellipticals, the rowing machine, or the vast collection of weights. No longer are our favorite trainers guiding us on our form and pushing us to hit just one more rep.

Not letting the temporary closure of our favorite gyms halt our regular workout routines, many of us have transformed our apartments into a new, even more convenient, fitness center. If you have been struggling to find some motivation or you’re ready to mix up your routine, here are four great exercise methods sure to inspire you to continue achieving your health goals.

HIIT

Voted one of the top fitness trends of 2020 by fitness professionals, high-intensity interval training, or HIIT , is a cardio-heavy workout that combines short bursts of intense exercise, from 20 to 90 seconds, with periods of rest or lower-intensity exercise.

A HIIT workout requires little equipment, relying heavily on your own bodyweight enhanced with some additional hand weights and resistance bands. An example of a solid 20-minute HIIT workout might feature push-ups, squats, butt kicks, tricep dips, and side lunges. Each exercise is done for 45 seconds, with a 15-second rest as you transition to the next move. The entire sequence is then repeated two more times. Add in jumping jacks and sit-ups for a full 30-minute workout.

TRX

Created by a former Navy SEAL, TRX , or Total Resistance exercise, is a training system that relies on suspension and bodyweight to develop core strength, stability, and flexibility.

Using an easily installed TRX-specific strap system, exercises like traditional lunges, planks, tricep dips, bicep curls, squats, and sit-ups are intensified when modified to include the straps. For instance, a TRX lunge is intensified as your back leg is suspended by the strap, increasing the balance challenge of the exercise.

Yoga

The meditative features of a stretching- and breathing-filled yoga workout might be especially appreciated as we all cope with the upheaval of our active lifestyles this summer. Time to roll out the yoga mat or bath towel and let the tension-relieving poses begin.

If you are new to yoga, there are many online resources, including YouTube videos , available to teach basic pose and breathing techniques. For more advanced yogis, you can ramp up routines with a Power Yoga workout where stretching poses are enhanced by weights and more cardio moves.

Videos

Back in the ’80s, there were no better at-home workouts than those Jane Fonda or Richard Simmons videos. Popping Sweatin’ to the Oldies in the VCR and donning your favorite legwarmers proved to be a fun aerobic workout.

While times and methods have changed, workout videos are still a great way to continue your fitness journey at home. Cue up those classic workouts on YouTube or invest in a new DVD series of dance-filled workouts. You can choose from Zumba , Beachbody CIZE , or a Bollywood workout .

Whether you are hoping to ramp up your workout with some high-intensity routines, try a new workout method like TRX, spice up that yoga routine, or dance your way to fitness, your apartment can easily be transformed into your new, temporary gym. Find the option that works for you and get to sweating!

3 DIY Nontoxic Cleaners Perfect for Your Apartment

Thu, 28 May 2020 19:33:00 GMT

The world has changed a lot since the beginning of the pandemic, but every cloud has a silver lining—sometimes literally! With fewer vehicles on the road, California’s air quality has actually improved. But did you know that the air inside your home is just as important?

With May being National Clean Air Month , now is the time to improve the air quality inside your home. One way to do so is by switching to homemade, natural, multipurpose cleaners. Using ingredients found in most pantries, you can easily create cleaners for every surface in your home. Here are three simple recipes perfect for cleaning your glass surfaces, kitchen and bathroom, and clothing.

Window Cleaner

Are your windows not quite as clear as you would like? Are your mirrors reflecting spots that aren’t there? When looking for an all-natural, nontoxic solution, turn to vinegar . It’s cheap, environmentally friendly, and can make your glass look like new. Just mix the following ingredients:

Pour the mixture into a spray bottle and use it on all your glass surfaces.

Kitchen and Bath Cleaner

Is your bathroom developing a consistent odor? Lemons may be just what you need. Their acidity makes them the perfect ingredient to combine with baking soda, table salt, rubbing alcohol, vinegar, and hot water. For a simple cleaner, mix the following ingredients like so:

Stir until well dissolved and allow to cool. Remove the rind and pour the mixture into a spray bottle. It’s perfect for hard bathroom surfaces like tile and linoleum—but never granite.

Stain Remover

Do stains on your clothes have you reaching for the bleach? Reach instead for hydrogen peroxide. Normally used as an antiseptic, hydrogen peroxide can also be used to clean and disinfect surfaces as well as create a homemade laundry stain remover. Mix the following:

Once you have the mixture, add 2 tablespoons of water, or enough to make it thin enough to spray through a spray bottle. After color testing the fabric, rub the cleaner into stains with a laundry brush and let it soak for at least 15 minutes.

With National Clean Air Month nearly over, now is the right time to eliminate unnecessary chemicals from your home wherever you can. Use these three recipes to do just that, using natural cleaners to keep your glass, kitchen and bathroom, and clothing shining bright all year long.

3 Ways to Keep Your Skin Healthy

Wed, 27 May 2020 16:46:00 GMT

There are over 5 million cases of skin cancer diagnosed every single year in the United States. That number is especially staggering when you realize that skin cancer is also one of the most preventable forms of cancer.

As we officially kick off the summer months, a time when many of us will be soaking up even more of the sun’s rays, it’s important to take a closer look at your skincare routine. By protecting yourself from the sun, pampering your skin, and eating a healthy diet, you can keep your skin bright, glowing, and radiant.

Ramp up sun protection.

The very best way to keep your skin healthy is to protect every inch from extreme sun exposure. Sure, doses of vitamin D from the sun are vital to our physical and mental health, especially in times of self-isolation. However, those UV rays are notorious for leaving their mark in the form of sunspots and sunburn , not to mention skin cancer.

With some preventative measures, you can still enjoy all the benefits of the sun while also avoiding irreparable damage. These protective tips include the following:

Pamper your skin.

If you want something, anything, to last longer, you treat it gently, right? This idea is especially true when caring for your skin. Think about what your skin goes through during a typical day—multiple hand washings, shaving, hot showers or baths, strong soaps, and more. If you want to keep your skin healthy and glowing, it’s time to indulge in some pampering.

One idea is to let your skin fully rejuvenate every night while you sleep. By gently cleansing your skin, exfoliating, applying a nourishing mask, and moisturizing with serums, eye creams, and a rich all-over moisturizer, you will wake to healthy, revitalizing skin every morning.

Eat a healthy diet.

It has often been said that one way to get healthy skin is from the inside out . In other words, the quality of your nutrition and diet really can be reflected in the condition of your skin. Adding a few key, vitamin-rich foods to your diet can greatly improve the quality and appearance of your skin.

There are at last a dozen healthy foods proven to boost skin appearance. For instance, the nutrients found in fatty fish like salmon can help reduce inflammation and prompt the production of new skin cells. Avocados, another food rich in healthy fats, are a great source of vitamin E, which protects skin against oxidative damage. And soy, which contains isoflavones, has been proven to reduce fine wrinkles and improve skin elasticity.

The time to protect your skin from irreparable damage is now. By protecting yourself from the sun, pampering your skin regularly, and eating a vitamin-rich diet, your skin will continue to be healthy and vibrant throughout your life.

How Living Green Can Make for a Healthy Life

Wed, 29 Apr 2020 04:43:00 GMT

Did you know that incorporating eco-friendly habits can help you live a healthier and happier life? Here are four ways living green helps boost your health.

Breathe Easier

Many cleaning products contain chemicals ; when sprayed, they release those chemicals into the air you breathe. By using natural items such as vinegar, olive oil, baking soda, and lemon juice, you can reduce the amount of caustic chemical floating in the air, which allows you to breathe easier. And let’s not forget how inexpensive these items are! Combining water from your faucet with the vinegar in your panty is much cheaper and less time-consuming than driving to the store to purchase a product that may not be the best for your lungs.

Refuel with Some Vitamin D

Although you can’t purchase your own solar panels to save energy, you can turn off the lights in your apartment and open the blinds to let some good ol’ sunshine in. Consider opening the windows to freshen your home. Soaking up some extra vitamin D could help fight disease, reduce depression, and even promote weight loss.

Reduce Stress

Sitting in rush-hour traffic causes enough stress for one day, especially when you live in such a densely populated area as Southern California. Why not find alternative transportations options to reduce your stress and help the environment? Public transportation and carpooling are great means of commuting to work and reducing air pollution. Further, riding a bike and walking are even better options for diminishing stress while reducing your carbon footprint. Burning off your most recent meal and releasing happy endorphins into your body are added bonuses.

Promote a Healthier Diet

Did you know that our food system contributes to one-quarter of all greenhouse gas emissions ? Red meat emits the most carbon (33 grams per 6 ounces, to be exact), while vegetables emit a much lower amount (14 grams). Living green by eating less meat is a great way to improve the environment and your health. If you can’t give up red meat altogether, try eating it sparingly by practicing Meatless Mondays or incorporating more fish into your diet.

Small changes can make a big eco-impact. Following the four tips above will help you take care of the earth and live a healthy life.

Looking for the Recipe to Healthy and Happy Living? Try Being More Kind.

Thu, 26 Mar 2020 22:01:00 GMT

Kindness. We just can’t get enough of it. Millions of us click on viral posts of random acts online: people proudly post images of the exorbitant tip left to an unsuspecting waitress or videos of a rescue team saving a horse from drowning. Even today’s workplaces are exploring the emotional effects of kind acts among coworkers.

“Office culture can be cutthroat and competitive, leading to hurtful criticism, lack of collaboration, and miscommunication,” says Dr. Pragya Agarwal . “However, now we are increasingly talking about wellbeing in the workplace, and bringing an authentic quality to our work, being gentle with ourselves, and with others around us.”

Research shows kindness and well-being are closely linked. Although the benefits to the recipients of kind acts are evident, science is uncovering connections between kindness and one’s health and overall happiness.

If you need an incentive to take the high road when you interact with people, here are four healthy and happy rewards for choosing kindness.

1. Improves Heart Health

There’s a reason why kind people are known for having big hearts—literally. According to Dr. David R. Hamilton , the emotional reaction to acts of kindness release the hormone oxytocin.

“Oxytocin causes the release of a chemical called nitric oxide in blood vessels, which dilates (expands) the blood vessels,” explains Hamilton. “This reduces blood pressure and therefore oxytocin is known as a ‘cardioprotective’ hormone because it protects the heart (by lowering blood pressure).” So it seems science proves that having a heart is actually good for it, too.

How can you reap these heart-health benefits? Plenty of studies have shown that social support is associated with better health, including cardiovascular health. So get out there in the community, make friends with your neighbors, and see how it benefits your heart—emotionally and physically.

2. Reduces the Risk of Depression

A study headed by Stephen Post of Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine found that when we share our time, resources, and other selfless acts, everything from life satisfaction to self-realization and physical health is significantly improved. Mortality is delayed, depression is reduced, and wellbeing and good fortune are increased.

At Cedars-Sinai , scientists are studying the links between kindness and increased dopamine levels. As dopamine is known for elevating feelings of euphoria, research is focused on the effects dopamine has on mental health.

“Mindfulness-based therapy is becoming increasingly popular for treating depression, anxiety, and other mental health conditions,” say doctors at Cedars-Sinai. “The therapy is built on mindfulness meditation, documenting your gratitude, and acts of kindness. People being treated in a mindfulness-based therapy program incorporate acts of kindness into their daily routines.”

Essentially, practicing kindness increases your dopamine levels, which ultimately helps improve your overall happiness and health.

3. Reduces Anxiety

In a study published by the University of British Columbia Study , a test group comprised of highly anxious individuals performed at least six acts of kindness a week. After one month, there was a significant increase in positive moods and relationship satisfaction, as well as a decrease in social avoidance in socially anxious individuals. The act itself didn’t need to be big to be effective. Kind acts took larger forms like donating to a favorite charity and small gestures such as putting a quarter in a stranger’s parking meter that was about to expire.

“We found that any kind act appeared to have the same benefit, even small gestures like opening a door for someone or saying ‘thanks’ to the bus driver,” says Dr. Lynn Alden, who led the study. “Kindness didn’t need to involve money or time-consuming efforts, although some of our participants did do such things. Kindness didn’t even need to be ‘face to face.’”

In other words, it isn’t the size of the act that promotes happy feelings but the act itself. When anxiety creeps in, try being more kind. Doing so can help reduce your anxious feelings and replace them with positive ones.

4. May Extend Your Lifespan

Some experts believe one of the keys to a long life is our social network. “What we call loneliness—the feeling that you have no one to turn to, that no one understands you—is a form of stress,” explains Health.com writer Ray Hainer . “And if it becomes chronic, it can wreak havoc on your blood vessels and heart.” With heart disease being the number one killer among Americans, the connection between improved heart health and avoiding stress contributes to a longer life.

Socializing with purpose also has healthy effects. “People who volunteer tend to experience fewer aches and pains,” writes Christine Carter in her book Raising Happiness; In Pursuit of Joyful Kids and Happier Parents. “People 55 and older who volunteer for two or more organizations have an impressive 44% lower likelihood of dying early, and that’s after sifting out every other contributing factor, including physical health, exercise, gender, habits like smoking, marital status and many more. This is a stronger effect than exercising four times a week or going to church.”

Looking for a new strategy for better health and happiness? Try kindness. Studies show that performing kind acts have a positive effect on everything from reducing depression and anxiety to longevity. “We all seek a path to happiness,” says Dr. Waguih William IsHak, a professor of psychiatry at Cedars-Sinai . “Practicing kindness toward others is one we know works.”

The surprisingly wonderful benefits of rental living

Tue, 25 Feb 2020 19:40:00 GMT

If you are considering moving into an apartment, you are not alone. Experts estimate there are just over 43 million renter-occupied housing units in the US. And while renters are renting for a variety of reasons, there are some common perks that renters enjoy.

Here are four of the most common benefits of rental living.

1. Location, location, location

Sometimes, the easiest way to live close to the communities you frequent isn’t to buy property, but to rent. “Renters can live virtually anywhere—a tiny apartment in Greenwich Village or a townhouse in Queens,” says professor of economics Teresa Ghilarducci . “Homeowners are more restricted to neighborhoods they can afford.”

There are certainly times when paying rent over is more expensive than paying a mortgage. For example, many renters will see their lease increase the moment their contract is up for renewal. But in some cases, experts say there are financial advantages to renting in desired locations rather than trying to buy property. “If you live in a market where you can rent an apartment for substantially less per month than you could own a home, you can invest the difference,” explains David Weliver , founder of Money Under 30. “The difference doesn’t have to be huge.”

Weliver presented an example like this: If you compare $1,000 rent per month versus a $1,300 mortgage payment on a comparable home, that generates $3,600 each year that you can save or invest. “And, unlike home equity, those savings are liquid,” added Weliver. “You can use them to build an emergency fund, pay down student loan debt, or fund a retirement account. None of which you can do with home equity.”

2. Awesome amenities

Most of us haven’t included installing an in-ground pool on our to-do list. But that doesn’t mean we wouldn’t enjoy having access to recreational amenities like a swimming pool, a fitness center, or tennis courts. And today’s rental properties are offering even more options to entice would-be renters.

Some of the more popular features include onsite laundry facilities or a washer and dryer within the unit. Many offer cable or satellite television and free Wi-Fi. Others offer fully-furnished units. And as a person just starting out on their own, having options for these types of services can help the transition to apartment living.

3. Flexible career options

The workplace model is changing, with more employees at varying job levels working from their homes. Experts estimate that almost half of the US workforce works remotely. But that also means employees are more mobile. And that is where the convenience of renting a home or apartment works well. Renting gives workers the freedom to move more frequently than they could otherwise. Additionally, some apartment communities offer amenities for workers. In some of our communities, for example, we offer dedicated workspaces, perfect for individuals who work remotely.

Have job, will travel. That’s an effective way to set the pace for job promotion or move to a better job opportunity should the need arise. “You need to be able to credibly leave a job to be well treated by employers,” says Ghilarducci . “Mobile workers can move for a pay raise or to make a career move.”

4. A sense of community

There are varying degrees of socializing among renters. You can be as social or reclusive as you choose; the fact remains that you are sharing common space with other people. Whether it’s the parking lot, the pool area, or the fitness center, apartment living offers a unique opportunity to befriend your neighbors.

“Apartment buildings draw an array of residents and visitors. Your neighbors, their families, their friends, their delivery people, and anyone offering an at-home service will pass through your shared entryway. Your children will learn to share a space with these people—and perhaps even open the door for them,” says Natalie Saaris , writing for Zillow. “While living in an apartment may deprive you of the privacy of a standalone home, the feeling of community may more than compensate for the loss.”

Whether your apartment is a temporary arrangement or a permanent decision, the benefits of apartment living offer pleasant and financially strategic opportunities for you.

Reasons why setting goals is a good thing

Fri, 24 Jan 2020 13:00:00 GMT

Don’t let New Year’s resolution failure fool you. Setting goals is a good thing.

Let’s talk about goals.

Wait! Not New Year’s resolutions. I mean regular, everyday goal setting; those goals that you can (and should) start at any time. Although around 80 percent of us fail to achieve our New Year’s resolutions, setting a goal—a SMART goal—will make you feel better. And in some cases, literally.

A SMART goal is a task based on something Specific, Meaningful, Achievable, Realistic, and Timely. And while resolutions may bite the dust two months after we set them in place, the truth is that almost half of us (40 to 45 percent) continue to make goals for ourselves each year.

We, as humans, struggle with following through on New Year’s resolutions. But the practice of continually setting goals is a good thing. Here are six reasons why.

Do you know how it feels to merely coast through life, where you find yourself simply reacting to things? When you target your energies into achieving a specific goal, you are forcing action.

“ Goal setting helps you align focus with behavior because you get feedback on your progress,” says Forbes contributor Jeff Boss . “The actions you take—or avoid—offer clues about your values, beliefs, challenges, strengths and weaknesses which allow you to course correct as necessary and reset your goal achievement strategy (and subsequently, your focus).”

Goals that truly make an impact are those that are specific and follow a timeline toward completion. For example, instead of making a goal to be thinner, a well-thought-out goal will include a series of smaller goals that encourage weight loss and are arranged over a month, a year, or two even years.

“ Think of your goal as the destination. Now think of each step you take toward that goal as a smaller yet attainable step to get you there,” explains Dave Richards , a performance and leadership coach. “If your goal is to launch a business someday, your smaller steps would include defining your products or services or getting funds to start up.”

There is no better feeling than one of accomplishment. And when you set attainable goals, your success at achieving those goals is an incredible boost to your self-esteem. Keep in mind the operative word here is “attainable.”

“By setting goals and achieving them, you send a signal to your brain that you are successful which builds confidence and pride in yourself and that helps build your self-esteem,” says Jennifer Silvershein . “We all love to feel accomplished and meeting or exceeding your goals does just that.”

By setting up a primary goal, which is your main objective, and secondary goals, which are the stepping stones that move you toward your primary goal, Silvershein believes “you can set yourself up for success with the right mindset and the right tools.”

This process of identifying a primary goal that’s supported by secondary goals boosts your self-image. But it can also stave off mild forms of depression. “ Setting goals and targets can sometimes help when a person is feeling demotivated,” reports Jayne Leonard . “However, it is important to make sure that goals are achievable, specific, and realistic.”

For instance, a goal to no longer be depressed may not be all that successful as a stand-alone goal. But setting a goal that is proven to help treat minor forms of depression, such as to eat two servings of fruits and vegetables every day or exercise daily, makes reducing or eliminating depression an added benefit to your primary goal, which may be losing twenty pounds. This brings us to the next benefit: your health.

Of Inc.com’s ten top New Year’s resolutions of 2019, five dealt with improving our health. So while we may not always follow through on those resolutions, they are certainly on our minds. In fact, out of the 2,000 people surveyed, 71 percent of them wanted to eat healthier in the coming year. Sixty-five percent of those surveyed planned to exercise more, and over half (54 percent) hoped to lose weight. Whether you are a fan of New Year’s resolutions or not, making conscious goals about lifestyle changes will have a positive impact on your overall health.

“Staying engaged in life as you age is essential for your health,” say experts at Harvard Health . “Goals should revolve around a purpose in your life: What matters to you now? What is important?” Once again, setting up a SMART goal will help connect your goals with a meaningful outcome within a specified amount of time. And when it comes to goals about your health, the end result feels great.

Let’s consider for a moment what the process of setting goals is doing. According to research by goal-setting theorists Edwin Locke and Gary Latham, goals not only affect behavior and work performance, but they also ignite a desire to put forth a higher and more persistent effort. And because with every action there’s a reaction, people around you are impacted by your efforts.

For example, if your goals are to be more productive and efficient at work and to manage your time better, you’ll likely return home sooner. Depending on what goals you’ve made regarding your habits at home, your family will benefit from the time you are able to spend with them. Perhaps you’ve made a goal to be more patient or a better listener. Those efforts impact others.

You will likely see similar positive effects if you have a goal to volunteer in your child’s school every month or plant a vegetable garden and share your harvest with neighbors. And as the cycle of goal-setting continues, you’ll be motivated to set more goals because of the positive feedback you receive from those who’ve benefited from your efforts. See? Win-win.

Don’t let the bad publicity surrounding resolutions fool you. Setting goals is a good thing. Nothing else is more effective and empowering than setting goals that improve your health, quality of life, focus, and contributions to the things you care about most. So let’s hear it for the new year and make it a goal to ensure it’s the best one ever.