Tips On Searching for an Apartment as A New Mom

Finding apartments for rent isn’t easy. You worry about location, size and amenities. If you’re a new mom, you have even more to think about. Finding an apartment that works not only for you, but also for your baby is a top priority for new moms. Here are some things to look for during your apartment search.

via yankeemagazine

1. Location

Location is a primary concern for all apartment seekers, but even more so for new moms. Getting an apartment close to work and day care is priceless. Babies require a lot of work and saving time is important. Look for rental properties near work, friends, relatives, and day care. Even if you pay a little more or if you have to accept a slightly smaller place, the advantages will likely far outweigh the drawbacks.


via weheartit

2. Security

Keeping your baby safe is on the top of the list for all new moms. Let’s say you’re looking for apartments in Orange County, for example. While this is a very nice area, crime isn’t negligible and having a secure entry point, gated or monitored parking, security cameras, and even an on-site security guard can really put a new mom’s mind at ease. There are plenty of other things for moms to be concerned about – security shouldn’t be one of them.




via thebooandtheboy

3. Extra Space

Contrary to what you might thing, babies actually take up a lot of room. New moms are always surprised at how much space such a little person needs. Think twice before deciding to have the baby share a room with you. New parents need some breathing room. Initially it may be nice to have the baby in your room, but after a while you’ll want the baby to have his or her own space so you don’t wake up startled at every little sneeze. You’ll also need plenty of space for diapers, a crib, baby clothes and lots and lots of fun baby toys!


via kvanum

4. Storage

Speaking of needing extra space, new moms will also want to check for extra storage space. Whether it’s a small garage area or big closet under the stairs, it’s a great idea to make sure you have space to store items that your baby has already grown out of, or hasn’t grown into yet.


via ebay

5. Safety

Above all else, you want to find apartments for rent that are safe for a new baby. If you have to walk up a lot of stairs to get into your unit, it may be difficult to lug the stroller, baby seat, diaper bag and baby – and you certainly don’t want to leave the baby unattended while you run back for the second load! You’ll also want to check for upgraded appliances, new paint, and clean, up-to-date electrical wiring. Safety guards on outlets and other child-proofing features are a huge plus.

Warm inspiration as it starts to get cold

Now that the weather is starting to cool, I've been thinking about unpacking our winter throws, accent pillows, and down comforters. One of my favorite winter comforts is my faux fur throw. It adds luxe, glamour, and coziness to my sofa.

the designer's attic

via Pinterest via themanofstyle.wordpress.com

Winter is also a great time to swap out cotton and canvas pillows for textured pillows.  Mixing up different textures like mongolian lamb or yarn always looks inviting.

 via Pinterest

via Pinterest via Inspiration by Liz

Pack up the linens and sheers for heavier velvet or silk drapes.  Not only do they look gorgeous, they will actually help keep the chill out from the windows.

via Pinterest via moodboard.typepad.com

Obviously visually warming up your space isn't enough to keep your home warm...as much as I love the old look of traditional radiators in a home, there are some pretty cool modern ones I'd never seen before!

 

via Houzz
I love that the one above doubles as a console as well! I would love to curl on the couch and read next that warm radiator! Some perks of these modern radiators? If you are looking to heat up a small space such as a bathroom or an office, you can use a low wattage radiator which can save you so much in price as well saving energy! They also are very quick to heat up unlike a heater which can take some time to get going and will cost you for all that extra time you have it running to get up to the desired temperature. Also if it is not a portable heater it has a very low risk of house fires which makes it a safer alternative.


via archiproducts

Not to mention designer radiators are pretty cool looking these days! There are a ton of different styles, shapes, sizes, and colors to fit in with your home decor. For example, the one above also comes in yellow, brown, and blue!

via Houzz

If you still like the look of the older covered radiators you can just do a quick update to a more modern one that can save you space and be more efficient. In small spaces a smaller radiator can make a world of difference!


this post is in partnership with bathempire.com