Money Saving Tips for Tenants in Florida

A man and woman sitting with a piggy bank planning finances.

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It’s no secret that Florida is a popular place to be if you’re looking to live in a warm climate. Whether you’re relocating to one of Forest Properties’ apartment buildings in Florida, or are simply looking for tips on how to optimize your current apartment living experience, saving money is always a win! Here are a few tried and true tips to help tenants save a few bucks every month.

1. Protect Your Security Deposit

Handing over a check with your security deposit is the first big step of moving in, but what can you do to make sure you receive the full amount back? Here are a few ways to protect your security money before you move in:

  1. Ask for a thorough walk-through of the unit with your landlord
  2. Take pictures or videos of the unit with dates included
  3. Record any existing damages and notify your landlord ASAP

Repeat these steps before handing in your keys before moving out, as well!

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2. Know Where to Place Furniture

Did you know the placement of your furniture can impact the overall efficiency of your heating and cooling systems? There’s a good chance your air conditioning vents will be running all summer long, so make sure nothing is obstructing airflow. By positioning your furniture to promote airflow, your apartment will heat and cool faster, and in turn save you money on your monthly electric or gas bill.

A Tenant Tip: For those cool, breezy Florida mornings, open your windows to promote cross-circulation. This can help keep temperature down throughout the day and, in turn, lower A/C usage.

3. Keep the Heat Out

Heat and humidity is no stranger to residents of Audubon Cove and Ranch Lake Apartments in Florida, especially in the summer months. With that being said, keep your apartment as a cool oasis by swapping out standard blinds and sheer curtains with energy-efficient window covers and solar shades from Décor & Designs.

A white clothes drying wall rack.

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4. Hang Dry Your Laundry

While tenants don’t have the luxury of clipping fresh laundry up on a line outside, air-drying your clothing indoors will give your dryer (and utility bill) a break. All you need is a clothes drying rack, an empty corner in your apartment, and you’re set! For optimal drying, place your rack near the A/C vent or open window.

5. Upgrade Your Lighting

Did you know swapping your apartment’s standard light bulbs for fluorescent ones are known to reduce energy costs?

Compact fluorescent light bulbs for table, floor, and desk lamps in your Lake Lucerne Towers apartment not only use less energy than traditional light bulbs, but they last longer, too! The best part? LED bulbs are relatively cheap, and you can always take them with you as you move on to your next apartment. Check out the bulb selection of Crowder Bros. Ace Hardware in Bradenton.

Another tip to lighten up your energy bill is to purchase timers for frequently-used lamps. They can be programmed to your prefered custom schedule to keep your apartment lit when you’re home, and dark while you’re out and about.

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6. Don’t Be Afraid to Call Maintenance

How many times has a small maintenance issue popped up and you’ve thought, “I can fix that!”? Well, while you may be ready to whip out your tenant toolbox and get to work, leave it to the pros – especially if your complex has a 24/7 maintenance crew. They’re there to help you, and you’re ultimately paying for their service in your rent and amenity fees.

Call your maintenance team right away if you suspect and of the following:

  • Cracked windows
  • Leaky faucets
  • Malfunctioning appliances (stoves, air conditioning units, heaters)

Good To Know: If you cause more damage to an existing problem in your apartment, the cost may be taken out of your security deposit!

A glass Mason jar filled with spare change for savings.

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7. Save for Unexpected Emergencies

Just because you’re renting an apartment at Forest Pointe in Coconut Creek doesn’t mean you shouldn’t add a few bucks into an “emergency” jar or savings account. Life happens at any time – from replacing a broken television, relocating to a new apartment last-minute, and taking time off from work due to sickness.

What are your go-to money saving hacks for apartments? Share your tips with the community on Facebook!

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