Countrywood Apartment Homes

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

Wed, 15 Apr 2026 19:10:56 GMT

At Counrtywood 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 Ap p

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 Pinat a

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 Redlands 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 Counrtywood 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.

Moving to Redlands, CA? Here’s Everything You Need to Know

webteam@stagemarketing.com (Marketing -) — Thu, 14 Mar 2024 21:54:28 GMT

Redlands, California, is a city located in the heart of San Bernardino Valley, surrounded by the natural beauty of some of California's highest mountain peaks and largest forests. However, Redlands isn't far away from some of California's largest cities. It’s only 60 miles away from Los Angeles and even closer to San Bernardino and Anaheim.

Redlands got its name from the red-adobe-colored soil of the region. The iron-rich and rocky soil is perfect for citrus trees, but many other crops struggle to grow. This is why, since its beginning, Redlands has been home to a large number of orange groves dating all the way back to 1882 when the first grove was planted.

If you're thinking about moving to Redlands, CA, or are just interested in learning more, we've put together a helpful guide that will explain everything you need to know about this beautiful city we call home.

Weather

Like most of California, Redlands enjoys a mostly Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild winters. Most of the rainfall happens in the wintertime. Despite the warm climate, Redlands does occasionally experience snow, though it's very unlikely. For the mountains around Redlands, snow is a common occurrence.

Average summer temperatures are in the high 80s and low 90s, with a few days being warmer or cooler. Winter temperatures are in the 50s and 60s, with rain being fairly common. Overall, the weather in Redlands is amazing for those who like a warmer climate while still being able to enjoy winter recreation less than an hour away.

Here’s more about the weather in Redlands, CA .

Whether you're looking for a short walking trail or an arduous hike, you'll find it in Redlands. The San Bernardino Valley is home to plenty of nature trails that are well cared for, with minimal elevation changes. For the slightly more adventurous, there are dozens of trails along the foothills of the mountains that provide a spectacular view of the valley.

For the most adventurous, San Bernardino National Forest is the perfect place to hike. Rivers, streams, and mountains come together to provide an amazing natural setting for miles and miles of rigorous hiking.

Here is a selection of the best hiking trails in Redlands, CA.

VISIT A MOUNTAIN LAKE

Redlands is only about an hour away from several large lakes nestled among the San Bernardino Mountains. Here are a few of the nearest lakes and the activities available at each one.

BIG BEAR LAKE

Located northeast of Redlands, Big Bear Lake is one of the region's most beautiful lakes. The lake offers breathtaking vistas, abundant wildlife, and vibrant wildflowers in the spring. Whether you visit in winter for skiing and snowboarding at Big Bear Mountain Resort or during warmer months to enjoy golfing and water sports, there’s something for everyone. At an elevation of 6,759 feet, this alpine lake and the surrounding town provide a refreshing escape from bustling city life, inviting visitors to relax, explore, and soak up the natural beauty year-round. Historically, Big Bear Lake was one of the sites of the California gold rush and has long been a popular vacation spot for celebrities. On busy weekends, Big Bear Lake might see upwards of 100,000 visitors!

Big Bear Alpine Zoo

This zoo near Big Bear Lake takes in animals in need of rehab and educates the community on the diverse species found in the area. You'll see bears, bald eagles, and many more animal species.

Boulder Bay Park

Visitors of this park will enjoy the beautifully manicured grounds, the paved walkways, and easy access to the water. This park is a popular place to boat, swim, and launch kayaks. It also offers amazing views of the rock formations and mountains surrounding the lake.

Lake Arrowhead

Lake Arrowhead, nestled in the San Bernardino Mountains of Southern California due north of Redlands, is a serene and picturesque destination that beckons travelers year-round. Surrounded by towering pine trees, Lake Arrowhead offers breathtaking vistas and abundant wildlife. Whether you’re hiking along scenic trails or simply enjoying the view, the natural beauty is awe-inspiring. From boating and water skiing in the summer to snow sports in the winter, there’s no shortage of outdoor adventures.

The entire San Bernardino National Forest envelops the area, providing opportunities for hiking, mountain biking, and camping. Stroll through the quaint village, where cozy coffee shops, charming boutiques, and delightful restaurants await. It’s a perfect spot to unwind and savor the mountain atmosphere. Lake Arrowhead also hosts seasonal events, from summer concerts to festive holiday celebrations. Whether you’re seeking relaxation or excitement, this mountain retreat has it all.

Arrowhead Queen Tour Boat

Explore Arrowhead Lake from the historic Lake Arrowhead Queen tour boat. The tour lasts about 45 minutes as the captain describes the history of the homesteads along the shore and the many famous residents who have or still call Lake Arrowhead their home.

Mackay Recreational Park

This free park on a largely private lake offers volleyball courts, a playground for children, a zipline, large open spaces, picnic areas, and more. Because this park is located on a hill above the lake, the views of Lake Arrowhead are spectacular!

Visit Prospect Park

This 11.4-acre park is one of the most spectacular features of Redlands. Visitors will enjoy plenty of walking paths and a spectacular view of Redlands. There are plenty of pavilions and picnic tables for visitors to use. The entire park is dog friendly, as long as they are kept on a leash.

Prospect Park even has a castle that visitors can enjoy. It's a popular spot for photoshoots, as is the entire park. Prospect Park is also home to an outdoor amphitheater that seats 400+ and hosts the Redlands Summer Theater Festival.

The Redlands Bowl

Every Tuesday and Friday during the summer, Redlands puts on the Redlands Bowl Music Festival , the longest continually running free music festival in the country. Since its beginning in 1924, the Redlands Bowl has been providing the community with a place to come together and enjoy music. Thousands of visitors enjoy the music festival each week throughout the summer.

Best Restaurants in Redlands, CA

Tartan of Redlands

If you're looking for a good steak, you can trust Tartan of Redlands to deliver. Tartan has been serving the Redlands community delicious food for decades. It also serves burgers, fries, pasta, and other items you'd expect to find at a steakhouse.

Eureka! Redlands

If you're looking for a good burger, it will be hard to beat Eureka! Redlands . This gourmet restaurant specializes in hamburgers and other comfort foods, using only the highest quality beef on brioche buns to craft its burgers. It also serves killer chicken sandwiches, salads, and more.

Bricks and Birch

This restaurant specializes in wood-fired pizza, pastries, and coffee. You'll find the classic cheese and pepperoni pizza, but Bricks and Birch is best known for its more inventive pizzas. These include butternut ricotta, jalapeno popper, mushroom brie, Thai, and more. There’s even special named pizzas, including the Ron Swanson, Swineapple, Triple B, Magpie, and Rocket Man. You’ll have to check out the menu to learn more!

Local Attractions in Redlands, CA

The Lincoln Memorial Shrine

The Lincoln Memorial Shrine serves as both a museum and a memorial to Abraham Lincoln, one of the most impactful presidents of the United States. This shrine was originally gifted to the city by Robert and Alma Watchorn in 1932. The construction of the shrine includes reinforced concrete faced with limestone plates upon which are inscribed excerpts from Lincoln’s speeches.

History buffs, fans of President Lincoln, and anyone with an eye for beautiful architecture will find paying the Lincoln Memorial Shrine a visit well worth the trip.

Kimberly Crest House and Gardens

This Victorian-era chateau was inspired by a French castle visited by the woman who commissioned the building of the home, Mrs. Cornelia Hill, in 1897. It is a superb example of the Victorian era in Redlands and has been immaculately preserved to the present day. The home’s second owners, Helen and John Kimberly, added the beautiful Italian Renaissance-style gardens on part of the home’s six-acre estate. After the Kimberlys’ passing, the home was gifted to the people of Redlands.

Presently, the interior of the home serves as a museum that offers guided tours. The gardens surrounding the home are free to visit. Kimberly Crest is frequently used for photoshoots, weddings, and other events.

Historical Glass Museum

The Redlands Historical Glass Museum is the only museum west of the Mississippi River dedicated to displaying glassware made by American glassmakers and artists. The museum houses over 6,000 pieces of glassware and sculptures that the public can see from 12 to 4 p.m. on weekends. The museum also offers guided tours for those who want to learn more about the pieces and artists who sculpted them. The museum is a 1903 Victorian house, which gives you two reasons to visit!

Cost of Living in Redlands, CA

Redlands, California, offers a lifestyle that balances natural beauty with urban convenience. However, as with most of California, this lifestyle comes with a price tag. The cost of living in Redlands is above the national average but is still more affordable compared to other communities in southern California.

The typical home price stands at over $618,000 , which is about 72 percent higher than the national average. Renting a two-bedroom unit costs an average of over $2,000 per month, exceeding the national average by about 37.8 percent.

Transportation and utility costs are about average compared to the nation, as are grocery costs. Residents of Redlands do tend to have a bit of money when it comes to healthcare costs. Redlands comes in about 15 percent lower than the national average. These savings can certainly build up over time.

Learn more about the cost of living in Redlands, CA .

Education

With 25 schools serving approximately 19,918 students, the Redlands Unified School District focuses on fostering a love for learning, promoting academic excellence, and cultivating responsible and compassionate citizens. The student-to-teacher ratio is 22 students per classroom, which aligns with the state average. In terms of quality, the district ranks seven out of 10 compared to other California school districts, surpassing 68.9 percent of them.

Redlands also has institutions of higher education. The University of Redlands is a four-year university that offers a variety of degrees. It consistently ranks among the top colleges in the West.

Here’s more about the educational systems in Redlands .

Employment

There are quite a few large employers in and around Redlands, making it a great place to live for professionals seasoned in their careers and those just starting out. Healthcare and education are two of the biggest industries in Redlands, with many of the city's residents employed at the hospitals, clinics, and schools in the area.

Many residents of Redlands work in the surrounding communities of San Bernardino or Riverside, two larger communities with a wide variety of employment opportunities.

Here are the current job openings in Redlands, CA.

Transportation

Redlands may not have all the public transportation options you’d find in Los Angeles or other larger cities, but Redlands is connected to other communities throughout the San Bernardino Valley via Omnitrans buses. Residents are able to travel to and from the most popular areas in the valley. If residents take the Omnitrans bus to the travel center in San Bernardino, they can travel almost anywhere in Southern California with ease.

The city of Redlands is making great strides toward a more bike-friendly city. Here’s a map of the bike paths currently available within

Redlands. Redlands is committed to adding more bike paths , connecting existing paths, and making the city easier to navigate by bike.

Culture

Redlands is a city steeped in history going all the way back to the 1800s. Many historic houses are still found throughout the town. The historic feel lends itself to a slower pace of life.

Redlands is very family-friendly and retains its historic focus on citrus groves and agriculture. The city of Redlands owns 184 acres of orange, grapefruit, and other citrus spaced throughout the city.

The University of Redlands brings in a lot of younger college age people to the town, making the overall population quite diverse in background and age.

Music and art are a huge part of the culture of Redlands. There are dozens of different music festivals, events, and activities happening throughout the year in Redlands, but especially in the summer.

If you’re considering moving to Redlands, CA, we can’t imagine a better place to live! We know you’ll love the great weather, fun things to do, and warm, inviting community. If you’re looking for a place to live, consider Countrywood Apartments in Redlands, CA. We’ve got great amenities that make coming home the best part of your day. Contact us today to schedule a tour!

Your Guide to Holiday Gifts and Activities in Redlands

Wed, 15 Nov 2023 18:32:53 GMT

After a long year of school, work, and challenges, it’s so nice to have the holidays to look forward to. In Redlands, there’s a lot to see and do, from holiday activities and exciting shows to unique shopping experiences and opportunities to serve. Whether you’re a resident or just visiting, get ready for Christmas in Redlands by reading our guide.

Things to Do

Maybe you’ve felt this way before, but when it gets dark earlier and earlier, all you want to do is hang out at home, watching TV or playing on your phone after work or school. Nothing wrong with a good ol’ relaxing evening, but it is nice to have pre-planned activities to look forward to. That’s why it’s great that holiday activities in Redlands are abundant! There are Christmas tree farms to visit, the US Capitol Christmas tree to see, and art shows to explore.

Cut-Your-Own Christmas Trees

Before December is too far gone, head to Greenspot Farms in Mentone or Christmas Conifers in Nuevo to look for your own real Christmas tree. At Greenspot, “Cut Your Own Tree” starts the day after Thanksgiving, and lighted hayrides start on December 1. Christmas Conifers has a 37-acre Christmas tree farm that opens on November 13, so head there if you want your tree (and a photo opp) a little earlier!

Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony

On November 17, the City of Redlands will light up its holiday tree for the season! It’ll be quite the event, with free hot chocolate, live music, a bounce house, painting, crafts, seasonal balloon art, a petting zoo, photos with Santa Claus and Mrs. Claus, and more. Join the community in lighting the holiday tree and all of East State Street from Orange Street to Redlands Boulevard in the Historic Downtown area. You’ll be in the mood for the holiday season!

Shows to See

Who doesn’t love a good live performance? Whether your preference is ballet, theater, comedy, hard rock, or anything else, there’s just something about a live show that is so exciting and really gets you into the spirit of the holidays. And this year, there are plenty of shows for everyone to enjoy for a great Christmas in Redlands.

Music

If you’re a fan of Christmas music, you’ll love “Hometown Holiday” by the Redlands Symphony on December 9 at 7:30 p.m. They’ll play a variety of your holiday favorites that’ll be sure to get you into the holiday spirit! This concert will feature a special performance of ’Twas the Night Before Christmas with a surprise guest narrator. Tickets start at $18. Check it out!

Plays

Head over to LifeHouse Theater at 1135 N. Church Street in Redlands for some festive plays. This year, they’re putting on Scrooge!, bringing Dickens’ classic A Christmas Carol to life, and A Christmas Song in My Heart, which tells the true stories behind favorite Christmas carols. If you’re not able to get out, you can also view their shows online !

Opportunities to Share

They call this the season of giving, and it really is a great time to reflect on all we’ve been given and see how we can give back. That’s truly what makes this time of year so special! Even if you can only give a little, that will make a difference—to you and the recipients. To celebrate the true meaning of Christmas in Redlands, check out these two local causes:

Food Bank

While holiday feasts are a cherished tradition, it’s important to remember that many around us are struggling with food insecurity, and even small donations can really help! Community Action Partnership of San Bernardino County is a private nonprofit agency that has been serving San Bernardino County since 1965. You can help by donating even a dollar!

Toys for Tots

Toys for Tots gives “toys, books, and HOPE to less fortunate children” all over the country. In 2022, the 29 Palms CA program gave 26,921 toys to 9,376 children. To join the cause, you can donate new toys or money, and you could also volunteer to help with warehouse tasks or meal delivery. If a child you know could use a toy this year, you can also fill out a form to request toys .

Gifts to Buy

We all love shopping from big online retailers—so convenient, and so many options! But it’s always so great when you can support a local business. So check out these locally owned shops to experience one of our favorite holiday activities in Redlands.

For Your Pets

These days, our pets are like family, and Paws knows it! “Since 1996, Paws has been leading the way in providing animal wellness solutions,” the website says. “From our extensive knowledge base in animal nutrition and product formulation to our attention to best practices in our industry, we always have your pets’ best interest at heart.” Head over for gifts for your pet or a friend’s pet.

Anything and Everything

If you just don’t know what to get someone, a gift shop can really help! Fleur de Lis Gift & Home has lots of treasures to pick from. They’ve got local artisan jewelry, clothing, decor, unique Christmas gifts, and more. This is a locally based business, so you can feel good about shopping there!

Clothing and More

Head over to Nectar Clothing for some trendy finds! They’ve got stylish clothing and accessories, holiday decor, and home and lifestyle items. Check out their cozy outerwear here, and find the physical store on State Street in Redlands.

Candles are a cozy addition to your holiday decor, but did you know that 7,400 fires are started each year because of household candles? Please stay safe and be careful when lighting candles in your apartment, especially in your bedroom, where you may fall asleep and then leave the candle unattended. Consider using battery-powered candles, which create a similar ambiance without the added danger. If you do use real candles, be sure to keep an eye on them and blow them out when you are done!

And Christmas trees, of course, can create another natural fire hazard. If you’ve purchased a real tree this year, be sure to water it regularly so it doesn’t dry out. Keep all open flames, such as candles, away from the branches, and make sure you turn all lights off when you’re not at home.

Holidays are the perfect time to connect with family, friends, and neighbors. As you spend the next few weeks shopping, seeing shows, serving, and doing holiday activities in Redlands, we hope you enjoy sharing good times with a friend or family member. From all of us at Countrywood Apartment Homes in Redlands, CA, we wish you the very best of holidays!

Our Favorite Hikes Near Redlands, CA

Tue, 02 May 2023 15:52:00 GMT

How to Make Your Pet-Friendly Apartment Even More Pet-Friendly

Thu, 16 Sep 2021 18:39:00 GMT

In an Apartments.com survey of more than 1,000 renters, “More than 80 percent of respondents said a pet-friendly policy played a major role in where they chose to live.” We know a pet-friendly apartment is so important to people, so we are grateful to be able to offer that to our renters! But a home is more than just four walls and a key to the door, and pets have their own needs that must be met.

Once you get into an apartment that allows pets, how can you make the most of it? You can start by making your entry practical, hiding pet supplies in convenient places, and giving your pet plenty of exercise. Read on to learn more!

Make Your Entryway Practical

Who doesn’t need more space? If you’re like many of us, you’ve spent time meticulously organizing your pet’s toys and supplies only to have your plan fall apart soon after when you realize you have a bit too much stuff to fit into the designated space (it’s just too tempting to buy them new toys every time you go to the store!). A cluttered counter ensues, and it’s back to square one.

If this sounds like you, consider using your entryway for a functional storage solution. The entryway often has unused space to which you can easily add peg racks, shelves, cubbies, or a hutch for leashes, treats, pet paperwork, and more. A little storage goes a long way to making your pet-friendly apartment an even better place for your four-legged friend.

Hide Pet Bowls and the Litter Box

Need a new solution for keeping your pet’s bowls or litter box out of the way? Here are a couple of ideas you could try:

With these DIY solutions, it’s easy to create more space for you and your pet to be comfortable at home.

Give Them Plenty of Exercise

There’s nothing like coming home and relaxing on the couch after a long day. Working hard makes you appreciate relaxing all the more—and your pet probably feels the same way!

To help your pet love being in your pet-friendly apartment, be sure to exercise them regularly. This will help them stay healthy and happy. According to Fetch by Web MD , “Up to 50% of dogs in the U.S. weigh too much. Like people, overweight dogs are at risk for health problems, from arthritis to heart disease.”

With your dog, go on walks regularly and take them to a dog park to get their energy out and enjoy socializing with other dogs. When you can’t get out, obedience training exercises the body and brain, as do games like “ find the treat .”

With your cat, it can be harder to know how to get them that important active time. Make a commitment to play with them at least 10 minutes a day, and offer praise or a treat when playtime is over so they want to do it again. Try introducing some new toys, getting a cat tree, playing with a laser pointer, or even attaching a “tail” of yarn to one of your belt loops to give them something to chase as you move around the apartment.

Start making your apartment even more pet-friendly today! And if you don’t currently live in a pet-friendly apartment but would like to, consider moving to Countrywood Apartments. We have one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartments in Redlands, California. Give us a call today to schedule a tour!

Redlands Spotlight: MU Restaurant

Thu, 12 Aug 2021 22:50:00 GMT

Some weekends are for pizza and pajamas; other weekends are for dressing up and getting food from somewhere special. If this weekend feels like the latter, give MU Restaurant a try!

MU serves Thai-inspired food made with fresh ingredients. And while it feels high-end, the prices are quite affordable! Keep reading to learn more about this great restaurant in Redlands, California.

A Philosophy of Fresh Authenticity

First of all, the vibe in MU is really cool. As they themselves describe it, “ MU Restaurant , Martini Bar, & Lounge offers modern cuisine with an ethnic flair, craft cocktails with an ambience to fit any occasion.”

There’s an atmosphere of authenticity and care, which all comes down to the philosophy behind MU: “Make Thai inspired food with local ingredients.” Daranee Muongpruan, who runs the restaurant, goes to the Los Angeles fish market at 4:00 a.m. to make sure each dish is made with the freshest ingredients.

Bringing Thai Flavors to Redlands, California

Muongpruan founded MU in 2006. She initially focused on the business side of things, but that eventually changed.

“Little by little, she found herself wanting to tweak the menu,” the website explains. “At one point, her chef told her that since she knows how to do everything else in the restaurant, she might as well learn how to cook and see how the food is really put together. This was especially impactful on her philosophy as a restaurateur.”

Now, she and her chef take inspiration from her native Thailand while presenting dishes with a modern flair.

A Thai-Inspired, Modern Menu

Now that we’ve learned a little about the story behind the food, let’s take a look at the food itself :

Next time you’re in Redlands, give MU Restaurant a try. Their delicious dishes at affordable prices are sure to make for a memorable experience. And if you decide you really like MU and want to live closer, consider moving to Countrywood Apartment Homes . We have one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartments in Redlands, California.

Image courtesy of Mu Restaurant .

Best Activities in Redlands That Only the Locals Know

Fri, 09 Jul 2021 23:02:00 GMT

There’s no better time than summer to try out some new activities in Redlands! Want to relax, discover some new music, or get a taste of history? Then you live in just the right place.

Get Pampered at Arbor LifeSpa

It’s been a crazy 18 months! No matter what your life challenges are, it’s always a good idea to slow down and take a breather.

Head over to Arbor LifeSpa on State Street for a massage or facial. One reviewer on Google said that “not only is the atmosphere truly tranquil, but the service is top-notch too. I didn’t realize I was carrying so much physical tension until Tammy took it all away.” So whether you realize you are carrying tension or not, it might be a good idea to treat yourself to a relaxing massage to make your muscles feel as good as they can.

Attend a Concert at the Redlands Bowl

One of our favorite activities in Redlands is attending a concert at the Redlands Bowl. A couple of events to look forward to this summer are singer Caro Pierotto with “Brazil Beyond Samba” on July 23. Another exciting one is Lana Love & the Cool Classics Ensemble, who will perform on August 13. Lana Love was recently featured in a Netflix musical, Malinche. Check out the other concerts of the Redlands Bowl 2021 season here .

Check Out the 10 Oldest Homes in Redlands

Did you know that Redlands was founded in 1881 and was once known as “The City of Beautiful Homes”? It’s worth checking out the 10 oldest homes in Redlands to see why! The oldest home in the city was built in 1875, and the others range from 1875 to 1888. Take a little tour around the city to drive by them for a taste of our city’s history.

There are some awesome activities in Redlands, and there’s no better time than the present to try them out. Get a facial, attend a concert, or drive by Redlands’ historic homes this weekend. After you experience a few of these must-try activities in Redlands, California, we’re sure you’ll fall in love with our beautiful city. When you do, consider moving to Countrywood Apartment Homes .

Countrywood Apartment Homes offers one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartments for rent in Redlands, California.

Photo credit: @redlandsbowl on Facebook.

Start Paying Rent Online to Improve Your Credit Score

Thu, 03 Jun 2021 14:29:00 GMT

Are you looking to improve your credit score? You can do so by starting to pay your rent online! A 2017 study by TransUnion found that renters who reported their rent payments to credit bureaus over the course of a year increased their credit score by an average of 16 points within six months! The benefit was greatest for those who started with a credit score below 620.

If you aren’t already, start paying your rent online. Doing so will ensure that your payments are reported, credit bureaus see what they are looking for, and your credit score can soar.

Your Payments Are Reported

According to Bev O’Shea at NerdWallet , “Simply paying your rent will not help you build credit. But reporting your rent payments can help you build credit—especially if you are new to credit or do not have a lot of experience using it.”

So how do you make sure your rent payments are reported? At Countrywood Apartments , we offer an online rental payment system that reports information to the credit bureaus. That way, credit bureaus receive a record of your on-time rental payments, which will contribute to your good credit.

Credit Bureaus See What They Are Looking For

What actually goes into a credit score, and does paying rent online contribute? Experian, for example, determines credit scores through the following elements :

When you pay rent online, those payments become part of your payment history. As you regularly pay the full amount on time, that becomes part of your score, too.

Your Credit Score Will Soar

To see your credit score soar, using a credit card specifically to pay your rent may be something worth considering.

You don’t have to pay your rent with a credit card, but it can be a nice little boost to your credit score in combination with the benefits of paying your rent online.

At Countrywood Apartments , we have made it easy for you with our resident portal . Pay your rent online through the portal to give your credit score a boost!

Living Green at Countrywood Apartment Homes

Tue, 25 May 2021 16:38:00 GMT

Did you know that a sprinkler can use as much water in just one hour as an average family uses in an entire day? Excessively watering lawns and gardens is just one of the common ways that people waste water. Unfortunately, 3.6 billion people in the world live in areas where water can be scarce, and Southern California is no exception.

Here at Countrywood Apartment Homes , we want to do all we can to protect the environment and promote living green—not just by preserving water, but also by reducing unnecessary waste. Here are three ways we are living green at Countrywood.

We Don’t Waste Water

Since Redlands, California, can experience droughts, we do what we can to use water conservatively. One way we do this is through our drought-tolerant landscaping. We use plants that don’t require much water, such as succulents and other plants native to the area. We also have a drip irrigation system and have replaced some mulch and grass areas with stone. Because of this, we can save gallons of water!

We also save water with our low-flow toilets . While regular toilets usually use 3.5 gallons of water when they flush, our low-flow toilets use only about 2.8. This may seem like a small difference, but it can actually save nearly 13,000 gallons of water over a year!

We Go without Paper and Plastic

Here at Countrywood Apartment Homes, we do our rent payments, service requests, applications, and notices all online. Not only is this convenient for our residents, but it reduces unnecessary paper waste.

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!

Additionally, we have a water bottle refill station at our property, which helps reduce the waste from plastic water bottles.

We Encourage Recycling

And, of course, there is recycling. We have recycling bins in our office and encourage all residents to recycle, too. Things you can recycle include plastic containers and bottles, empty cans, cardboard, and paper. However, avoid recycling plastic bags, cups with wax or plastic coating, plastic wrap, liquid, or food.

Close to our apartments in Redlands, you can recycle at City Recycling Center . These small efforts in living green 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 take care of the environment and live green. If you are looking for an apartment complex that takes living green seriously, Countrywood Apartments is the place for you.

Looking for Apartments in Redlands? Choose Countrywood Apartment Homes

Thu, 08 Apr 2021 19:16:00 GMT

Redlands, California, is a beautiful place to live. With orange orchards, parks perfect for picnics, local trails, historic sites, and cozy shops and restaurants, you’ll find a lot of charm in this city.

If you’re searching for apartments in Redlands, you’ll want the best the city has to offer! Countrywood Apartment Homes might be the perfect new home for you. Here’s why.

Wonderful Amenities

Our amenities may be one of the first things you notice about our apartment community. We want our residents to have as much fun at home as possible, so not only are we pet-friendly, but we also offer a wide range of amenities for you to enjoy. Here are a few of our most popular amenities:

We also have a great fitness studio, which is now fully open to our residents! Whether you want to get a sweat on at the gym, in the pool, or at the dog park with your favorite pup, we have plenty of options for healthy living here.

Great Location

Located in North Redlands near downtown , Countrywood is just minutes away from the San Bernardino National Forest and Citrus Plaza Shopping Center. We are also conveniently located next to great schools like the University of Redlands and the University of Loma Linda. You’ll love the feeling of being so close to outdoor activities, shopping, restaurants, and highly ranked schools.

Spacious Living

Our apartments also feature spacious kitchens, living rooms, bathrooms, and bedrooms. We have several floor plans to choose from with one-, two-, and three-bedroom options. And all of our apartment homes are newly renovated, featuring wood floors, granite countertops, and stainless-steel appliances. You’ll have plenty of space to stretch out with your favorite furry friends and roommates and enjoy your new, renovated home without feeling cramped.

At Countrywood, we strive to make coming home your favorite part of the day. With great amenities, a wonderful location, and spacious apartments, you’ll be able to find so many fun things to fill your days with. Give us a call today to schedule your tour!

How to Practice Goal Setting All Year Round

Mon, 08 Mar 2021 23:07:00 GMT

For many, goal setting begins and ends in January. This is an essential data point because it emphasizes the fact that temporary fixes don’t work. Rather, progress is a direct result of consistency.

Have you ever thought about where you’d like to be in a few years? Perhaps you’ve landed a new promotion, purchased a home, or started a family. To accomplish these goals, you need to do the little things right, and that means incorporating small steps into your everyday life that set you in the right direction.

Setting goals in 2021? Our team at Countrywood Apartment Homes has some tips and tricks to help keep you on the right path all year round.

What Is the Bigger Picture?

It has been said that “There is no change without sacrifice.” This is often used in relation to social causes or religious worship. However, this also applies to goal setting, as we must clearly define our priorities and understand the challenges brought upon us by making that commitment.

Growth marketer and cofounder of Web Profits Sujan Patel states, “A little bit of discomfort goes a long way in terms of personal development. Sure, no one likes feeling uncomfortable, but it’s a big part of improving your performance, creativity and learning in the long run.” The keywords here are the long run. To accomplish long-term goals, we need to focus on the bigger picture. Once we have a clear image in mind, we can begin to piece together the puzzle.

Small Victories Lead to Big Success

For many individuals, goal setting can seem daunting. That’s because many of us have goals that involve a lot of moving pieces. However, it is essential to realize that success is simply an accumulation of small victories. This measurable proof of accomplishment results in increased motivation and confidence. We can then leverage that momentum towards sustaining our change in habits.

Author Teresa Amabile states, “The power of progress is fundamental to human nature.” In other words, human beings are born with the innate desire to grow, adapt, and seek improvement upon the current state in which they exist. This goes hand-in-hand with our desire to practice goal-setting all year round. By starting small, we drastically improve our rate of success.

Hold Yourself Accountable

When it comes to goal setting, accountability means holding yourself responsible for the achievement of your goals. When we take accountability, we are taking a sense of pride and ownership in reaching our desired outcome. There are several resources available to assist you in this process, including enlisting the help of an accountability partner and tracking your progress in a written and visual manner.

Setting goals is an important part of progress. Establish the bigger picture, delight in the small victories, and take accountability. As the great Walt Disney once said, “A person should set his goals as early as he can and devote all his energy and talent to getting there. With enough effort, he may achieve it. Or he may find something that is even more rewarding. But in the end, no matter what the outcome, he will know he has been alive.”

Our Favorite Local Restaurants in Redlands

Wed, 17 Feb 2021 16:23:00 GMT

It’s more important now than ever to support local restaurants. Hundreds of restaurants throughout the nation have closed due to the pandemic, including restaurants in our very own state. With takeout, delivery services, and Governor Newsome’s indoor dining order, there is no reason why we cannot grab a quick bite or purchase a gift card from our favorite local spot.

If finances allow, consider supporting one or all of our top three favorite local restaurants in Redlands. We know you will love each one!

Hate Burger

Don’t let the name of this restaurant fool you! If you are a burger lover, Hate Burger should be at the top of your must-try list. Choose from a cheeseburger, a chicken sandwich (regular, spicy, or honey flavored), or a veggie burger. Pair your meal with an order of fries and a soda or shake!

To top it off, customers can order as many extra patties as they would like for a charge of $3.00 per patty, and the restaurant sells customized shirts and honey pouches in bulk. Grab a bite to eat and a new wardrobe accessory, and you’ll be good to go!

Badger Bowls

Nothing hits the spot quite like acai bowls. Whether you just finished a workout, need a healthy breakfast, or want something sweet, Badger Bowls will not let you down.

The restaurant is family-owned and has a laid-back beach vibe. The owners’ goal is to provide a cool atmosphere paired with delicious and diverse food for people with different tastes, preferences, or allergies. Their menu is a collection of their favorite foods they compiled from years of traveling. The next time you crave ocean water and a treat, make this place your first stop!

Cheesewalla

Rated over 4.5 stars on Yelp with over 650 reviews, Cheesewalla is the perfect local restaurant for our grilled cheese lovers. They offer a variety of gourmet sandwiches. Try their traditional grilled cheese on sourdough bread or explore and order their jalapeno popper: a jalapeno cheese bread sandwich with pepper jack cheese, housemade jalapeno cream cheese, roasted jalapenos, and bacon.

In addition to sandwiches, they make a crusted sourdough pepperoni pizza and tomato basil bisque soup. Order the soup alone or on the side for a dipping sauce. If you are anything like past customers who have written reviews, you will fall in love with this restaurant.

Support our local restaurants during COVID-19. Try one of our favorite restaurants listed above, and consider writing a review if you like the food. We know the restaurant owners will be so appreciative. Happy eating!

Photo credit: Cheesewalla

Everything You Need to Know about Pets at Countrywood Apartments

Tue, 15 Dec 2020 17:18:00 GMT

When you love your pet or are looking to adopt one, the struggle to find the right home is real. Not all rental communities allow pets, and not all those that do offer what you need for your furry/feather/scaly friend to be happy.

That’s why we are so pleased to be a pet-friendly apartment community! Pets can help our residents live happier lives, and there’s a whole variety of animals that they can choose from to welcome to their home. Plus, we have an on-site dog park and other great dog parks nearby. Keep reading to learn more about pets at Countrywood.

The Benefits of Pets

On top of simply being fun, pets also bring physical and emotional health benefits. They can bring comfort and support and help with mindfulness and pain management. But there’s not a one-size-fits-all pet for all situations.

“Is your goal to increase physical activity? Then you might benefit from owning a dog,” says Dr. Layla Esposito, who oversees NIH’s Human-Animal Interaction Research Program. “If your goal is reducing stress, sometimes watching fish swim can result in a feeling of calmness.”

Great Dog Parks Here and Nearby

We love that we can offer our residents a dog park at our community! It’s a fenced grassy area, great for our residents’ dogs to stretch their legs and make new friends. And there’s a comfortable bench set up for you to relax and watch your dog play.

For a change of scenery, there are several great dog parks in our area. The Redlands Dog Park is just a five-minute drive away and has two separate fenced areas and water bowls available for when your dog gets parched! There’s also the Loma Linda Dog Park , only a 10-minute drive away, with plenty of grass and shade trees and a waste disposal area to keep things clean.

Pet Guidelines

We love animals at Countrywood Apartments, so we are glad to be able to welcome pets up to 50 pounds. Here are some other things to keep in mind when it comes to animals at our apartment community:

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 community, making it easy to pick up after your pet!

Having a pet brings physical and emotional health benefits, and there’s a whole variety of animals that our residents can choose from to welcome into their homes. We hope your pets make it even easier to live happy at Countrywood!

Three Holiday Appliance Checks to Ensure a Good Time

Thu, 12 Nov 2020 23:53:00 GMT

Imagine this: It’s the morning of Thanksgiving. Your guests are due in an hour, and the meal will be served promptly at 3 p.m. Your turkey is thawed, stuffed, basted, and ready to cook. You go to preheat your oven, but when you hit the buttons, nothing happens. No heat. Not so much as a spark. What are you to do?

What you should have done was conduct some holiday appliance checks. In a survey of more than 381,000 appliances, Consumer Reports calculated that 6 percent of respondents reported problems with cooking elements not lighting or heating up on ranges, while 5 percent of people reported refrigerators that didn’t cool properly. An even larger 11 percent of people said their dishwashers stopped properly cleaning.

With the holidays upon us, the last thing you want is a broken appliance standing between you and a good time with your family. Fortunately, these problems are avoidable: Here are three holiday appliance checks to ensure a good time.

Conduct Deep Cleaning

One of the simplest ways to care for your appliances is to keep them clean. Before you start inviting your (small) group of holiday guests, take some time to give your appliances individual attention. For example, pull the fridge away from the wall and clean the dust from the mechanical coils . For your oven, break out the oven cleaner and make sure are all the burners fully ignite. And give your dishwasher some love by running a full, dish-free cycle with a single cup of white vinegar on the top rack. Cleanliness is second to godliness, they say, and the blessing will do your kitchen good.

Have a Cooking Test Run

Maybe you don’t cook too often, or maybe some appliances just get more use than others. There’s no shame in that. You just don’t want to get a rude surprise after assuming the oven you haven’t used since last Christmas would work. Just to be safe, give each appliance a test run on a low-stakes meal to make sure the food cooks evenly or the dishes come out clean. With enough notice, you can be sure any problems get fixed with plenty of time to spare.

Reach Out to the Maintenance Crew

The minute you notice anything wrong with your appliances, find a professional to come in and fix it. Many of these larger appliances require skill and experience to properly repair, so it’s best not to attempt a DIY approach.

At Countrywood Apartment Homes, we want your holidays to go off without a hitch. Our on-site management and maintenance teams are there to help if you are having any sort of problems with your appliances. If you find that your oven isn’t heating properly or that the refrigerator isn’t chilling the way it should, simply visit Countrywood’s Resident Portal and submit a work order. Our team will schedule a time for the repair, removing the obstacles between you and a happy holiday.

There are enough holiday stressors without last-minute appliance malfunctions. Remove these hassles by conducting these three holiday appliance checks early. The entire staff here at Countrywood Apartment Homes sincerely wants your holiday wishes to come true this year!

Renting vs. Buying: Three Ways Renting Comes Out on Top

Thu, 29 Oct 2020 21:57:00 GMT

Considering renting? Over 100 million Americans are renting, so let’s talk about why. For renters, upfront and long-term costs are lower, maintenance is easier, and moving is more flexible. In the toss-up of renting vs. buying, renting might just come out on top! Keep reading to learn more.

Upfront and Long-Term Costs Are Lower

When you add up the upfront costs and costs over time for renting vs. buying, renting turns out to be more affordable. For starters, a mortgage usually requires a 20 percent down payment, while a rental lease only requires a security deposit, usually equal to one month’s rent. Then there are long-term costs, like property taxes (which renters don’t need to pay) and insurance. Here, renting takes the cake, too! According to a 2017 study by the Insurance Information Institute , the average renters insurance policy costs $180 per year, while the average homeowners policy costs $1,211.

Maintenance Is Easier

In the renting vs. buying debate, maintenance is a big point in favor of renting. When the unexpected happens, like something in your home breaking, it’s good to know that someone else is responsible for making repairs . For example, at Countrywood Apartment Homes, our knowledgeable and friendly staff sets to work to make repairs as soon as you report that something needs attention. No last-minute trips to the hardware store for you!

Moving Is More Flexible

Something great about renting is how short the leases are compared with the much-longer term of a mortgage. With a relatively short lease, renters are free to pack up and move whenever a new opportunity presents itself.

“Regardless of age, mobility is one of the top reasons people decide to rent,” writes Robert Pinnegar at The Washington Post . “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.”

To help make sure you can hit the ground running if you ever move away from Countrywood Apartment Homes, we instated our loyalty bonus: If you move from Countrywood Apartment Homes to another AMC property or vice versa, we’ll give you $250 to help make sure you are taken care of.

With lower costs, easier maintenance, and more flexibility with moving, it’s easy to see why more and more people are choosing to rent. At Countrywood Apartment Homes, we’re here to make renting a great experience for you! Stop by and visit us to see why renting might be the right choice for you in the renting vs. buying choice.

Scream for Ice Cream by Supporting Local Businesses

Tue, 01 Sep 2020 19:15:00 GMT

Have you Googled “ice cream shops near me” lately? Scrolling through the long list of delicious options can be paralyzing! To help you make your decision, we rounded up our three favorite local spots for that creamy, cold goodness. Take a look!

Variety for the Whole Family

About a six-minute drive away in the North Redlands Shopping Center, Delicias La Michoacana Ice Cream has lots of fun options! They serve ice cream, fresh fruit, and a variety of yummy drinks like mangonada, vanilla raspado, and Coca Cola from Mexico! Their wide variety of ice cream flavors includes a refreshing Pepino, lime, and chile flavor.

Unique Flavors to Tickle the Taste Buds

Another ice cream shop near us is à la Minute , located a quick four-minute drive west of us on Citrus Avenue. Some of their unique ice cream flavors include avocado, beet and goat cheese, and chocolate lavender! On top of ice cream, they also serve sorbets and vegan ice cream with fun topping jars.

Amazing Ice Cream Creations

Nicho’s is also just a four-minute drive away off of Citrus Ave, and when you get there, you’re in for an ice cream experience! Some of their flavors include horchata, tres leches cake, and even queso! They also make vegan options and delicious churro ice cream sandwiches. Yum!

At Countrywood Apartments , we love any reason to eat ice cream, especially when we can support local businesses at the same time! Join us in supporting local ice cream shops by ordering a few scoops from Delicias La Michoacana Ice Cream, à la Minute, or Nicho’s. Or Google “ice cream shops near me” and let us know what unique finds you come across!

How Paying Rent Online Improves Your Credit Score

Mon, 03 Aug 2020 23:44:00 GMT

If you’re looking to improve your credit score, we have some great news: Paying rent online can do just that! In 2017, TransUnion studied 12,000 renters who reported their rent payments to credit bureaus over the course of a year. The study found that renters’ scores rose an average of 16 points within six months, and the benefit was greatest for those who started with a credit score below 620.

To see a similar increase in your credit score, try paying your rent online. Doing so ensures your payments are reported, shows credit bureaus what they are looking for, and can combine with credit card payments to increase your score even more. Here’s how.

Ensures Your Payments Are Reported

“Simply paying your rent will not help you build credit,” says Bev O’Shea at NerdWallet. “But reporting your rent payments can help you build credit—especially if you are new to credit or do not have a lot of experience using it.”

So how do you make sure your rent payments are reported? At Countrywood Apartment Homes, we offer an online rental payment system that reports information to the credit bureaus. That way, credit bureaus receive a record of your on-time rental payments, which contributes to your good credit. In order to opt in for the credit reporting, follow these steps:

Shows Credit Bureaus What They Are Looking For

What actually goes into a credit score, and does paying rent online contribute? Experian , for example, determines credit scores through the following elements:

When you pay rent online, those payments become part of your payment history. As you pay on time and in full and continue to do so, that becomes part of your score, too.

Combines with Credit Card Payments for Higher Score Gains

To boost your score even more, using a credit card specifically to pay your rent may be something worth considering.

“Open a credit card and use it to pay 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.” You don’t have to pay your rent with a credit card, but it can be a nice little boost to your credit score in combination with the benefits of paying your rent online.

Give your credit score a boost by paying your rent online through the resident portal . As you do so, your payments are reported to credit bureaus, showing them exactly what they are looking for. Plus, if you choose to pay rent with a credit card, you may increase your score even more. Happy credit-score-boosting!

Four Ways to Be a Good Friend

Fri, 17 Jul 2020 18:07:00 GMT

Keeping up friendships as an adult can be hard! We love our friends, but life can get so busy. Because healthy relationships are so important, take the time to evaluate your friendships and see how you could improve them. Here are four tips on how to be a good friend.

Be Genuinely Interested in and Happy for Them

“You can make more friends in two months by becoming interested in other people than you can in two years by trying to get people interested in you,” wrote Dale Carnegie, author of How to Win Friends and Influence People . When your friends talk to you, really listen; don’t just wait for your turn to talk. And when they tell you good news, be genuinely happy for them! Listening and being happy for your friends’ successes really help to build a solid relationship.

Proactively Work through Conflict

Part of being human is occasionally butting heads even with the people we care about most! Rather than seeing conflict as a sign of a doomed relationship, see it as a normal part of friendship, and work proactively to solve it. A couple of conflict resolution tips include the following:

Share Your Feelings

An important, but sometimes difficult, part of building relationships is being honest and vulnerable . When you are going through something difficult, don’t hesitate to reach out to your close friends and tell them how you’re feeling. Ask if they would be willing to share how they got through a similar, difficult time. When you talk about the stuff that really matters, you’re better able to rely on each other and even have more fun during lighter conversations.

Understand and Respect Boundaries

“Setting clear personal boundaries is the key to ensuring relationships are mutually respectful, supportive and caring,” says Jane Collingwood at Psych Central. “Boundaries are a measure of self-esteem. They set the limits for acceptable behavior from those around you, determining whether they feel able to put you down, make fun, or take advantage of your good nature.”

Your friends are, of course, wonderful people, but be careful not to rely on them too much or assume you know how they’re feeling. If they’re helping you with a big project, be sure to check in with them and make sure they aren’t burned out. And allow them their space when they need it. When your friendship has good boundaries, you’re both able to feel more respected and comfortable around each other.

If you’re wondering how to be a good friend, start by working through conflict, sharing your feelings, and respecting boundaries. Try implementing one of these tips today to make your important friendships even better!

Join Us in Cleaning Local Beaches and Parks!

Thu, 09 Jul 2020 18:15:00 GMT

Have you heard of the Ocean Conservancy’s beach cleanups? Every September, thousands of volunteers join this huge effort to clean up their local beaches. Over 30 years, this effort has collected over 300 million pounds of trash.

Each summer, members of AMC and their families join together to pick up trash and help keep our local beaches clean. Countrywood Apartments is conducting a cleanup event on July 25. While we can’t gather physically due to COVID-19 restrictions, we can individually make small efforts that lead to big results for our beautiful beaches and parks.

The Benefits of Keeping Beaches and Parks Clean

Cleaning up beaches and parks is satisfying, helps wildlife and the economy, and is a good activity for a healthy lifestyle.

“There is satisfaction to say, ‘I removed ten pounds of trash from my beach,’” says Kara Lavender Law, a research oceanography professor. “Even if it’s only ten pounds, that’s ten pounds that isn’t going to go into the open ocean.”

In addition to protecting wildlife, “clean beaches provide economic benefit to local communities in the form of tourism dollars,” says Laura Parker at National Geographic . “In southern California, researchers calculated that in Orange County alone that potential could translate into $46 million in just one summer.”

Whether you head to Sylvan Park or take a trip to Corona del Mar State Beach for your park or beach cleanup, you’re making the world a more beautiful place. And if you want to burn some calories, picking up trash can actually be a workout!

How to Plan Your Cleanup

Once you’ve circled July 25 on your calendar or picked the day that works best for you, it’s time to gather supplies for your cleanup. On top of a reusable water bottle and quick-energy snacks, add these supplies to your list:

How to Keep Safe

With COVID-19 guidelines still in place, your cleanup crew might be small this year, with just your roommates or immediate family members lending a hand. If you’re inviting friends or extended family to join you in your cleanup, consider this CDC advice: “When guests arrive, minimize gestures that promote close contact. For example, don’t shake hands, do elbow bumps, or give hugs. Instead wave and verbally greet them.” In keeping with California’s mask mandate , wear your mask “when maintaining a physical distance of 6 feet from persons who are not members of the same household or residence is not feasible.”

Cleaning up beaches and parks really makes a difference and is a fun and memorable summer activity. So join us for our beach and park cleanup effort on July 25 or anytime during the month of July! Tag Countrywood Apartments in your photos and use the hashtags #AMCcleanup and #livehappy. We can’t wait to see the difference you are making!

3 Reasons Why Your Daily Routine Should Include Meditation

Tue, 30 Jun 2020 16:35:00 GMT

Are you one of the estimated 200 to 500 million people globally who practice meditation? If not, it might be time to join them—and you can easily do so from the comfort of your own home in Redlands! With so much uncertainty and stress in today’s world, it can be challenging to focus and stay positive. As an effective way to combat these pressures, try meditation! Here are three reasons why your daily routine should include it:

Improves Memory

A 2019 study found that engaging in mindfulness (a type of mediation) improves short-term memory and also increases the size of the brain’s memory center (hippocampus). How does meditation do all of this? It’s all about being in the present.

“When you try to learn something new, it’s difficult to do it because you have all these past memories that interfere,” says Jonathan Greenberg, lead author of the study. “It makes a lot of sense that mindfulness might improve that, because the tendency to attend to the present moment is a core concept of mindfulness.”

Stabilizes Stress

From everyday worries to big life-changing events, life can take its toll on your stress levels. Meditation can help you manage!

“Meditation brings short-term stress relief as well as lasting stress management benefits,” according to Very Well Mind . “When you’re focused on the here-and-now, you won’t be able to ruminate about something that already happened and you can’t worry about something in the future. Meditation and mindfulness take practice, but it can make a big difference in your overall stress level.”

Increases Life Satisfaction

According to one study on mindfulness , this type of “training has a rapid and measurable impact on subjective well-being.” This outcome was seen in participants who used a mindfulness-based smartphone app for a short time. This is an easy, low-cost way to quickly improve your life!

If you feel that your stress levels have increased this year , you are not alone! Fortunately, there’s something that you can do daily to combat these symptoms. Add meditation to your life today, and you can enjoy the benefits of improved memory, stabilized stress, and increased life satisfaction. That sounds like a positive future to us!

4 Kid-Friendly Activities to Do This Summer

Wed, 17 Jun 2020 03:56:00 GMT

Summer is here, and while three months sounds like a long time right now, they’ll go by in a flash. The time is now to decide to make the most of every day! Here are four kid-friendly activities to do this summer that are fun, educational, and perfect for creating amazing memories.

Tend to a Garden

There’s nothing like planting a tiny seed and watching it grow into something beautiful. Whether you grow a small pot of flowers or herbs in a pot on a windowsill or rent a plot at one of Redland’s three community gardens , gardening is a great opportunity to bond as a family. And at the end of the season, you can use your herbs or veggies to make a delicious meal together!

Take a look at these ideas for vegetables that you can plan in midsummer.

Get Musical

Music is amazing: It can help you relax at the end of a long day or encourage you to get active. Here are some musical activities you can do with your kids:

Have Family Field Days

Find a spot at the park and play some good old outdoor games ! You could do a water balloon toss, play “pass the baton,” or hold a three-legged race. Being active together will make for a great time and great memories.

Do a Science Experiment

There are lots of kid-friendly science experiments , and chances are you have the supplies you need at home! From making snow fluff to a paper hovercraft, there’s something for every child. Plus, you may remember some forgotten scientific principles from your school days.

Summer is here, so it’s time to make some memories! Try these four kid-friendly activities for some fun times your family will never forget.

Four Tips to Help Pet Owners Thoroughly Clean Their Apartment

Fri, 29 May 2020 21:28:00 GMT

We all love our pets, but it can be hard work to clean up after them! One minute your apartment is spotless, the next it’s totally covered in animal dander and hair. Here are four helpful tips to keep your place from becoming a fur kingdom.

Brush Them Regularly

Those beautiful, soft coats have a downside: the hair! If you have a labradoodle or a sphynx cat, you may not be able to relate, but some furry friends shed a lot . Keep a regular cleaning and grooming schedule to help your pet stay comfortable and healthy while also reducing the amount of dander and hair in your apartment. Dedicating times a few days each week can make a huge difference.

Make White Vinegar Your Best Friend

It’s not an old wives’ tale: white vinegar really is amazing for removing unpleasant scents or stains from your carpet. It’s cheap and easy to use: just pour some in a spray bottle and cover—but don’t soak—the stains. Then, let it dry. You’ll be shocked at how well the vinegar picks up those pesky smells!

Use a Lint Roller

Vacuums are clearly a must, but a lint roller can go a long way! It’s a cheap and quick way to clean up pet hair when unexpected guests show up on your doorstep or you need to hop on a conference call. Lint rollers are a handy tool for any pet owner!

Get out the Baking Soda for Pet Beds

Here’s a tip that’ll save you some grief: when buying a bed for your pet , make sure that it comes with removable, machine-washable covers. That way, you can throw the cover in the wash or hand wash it using a mild soap or normal detergent. To up the ante, add a cup of baking soda to the wash mix. Just like white vinegar, baking soda is an amazing tool for neutralizing odors and a good antibacterial agent.

Pets may smell and shed, but we love them just the same! With these four tips, you can keep your frustration down and your apartment clean.

Five Memorial Day Tidbits You Didn’t Know

Wed, 13 May 2020 16:50:00 GMT

Memorial Day may look different this year. While the day is usually known for its picnics, barbecues, and fun social gatherings, quarantine may mean we see less of one another.

But some things about Memorial Day don’t change. With activities limited this year, now may be the right time to rediscover this holiday and what it means. Below are some interesting facts about Memorial Day and how it has changed and evolved in the last 150+ years.

John A. Logan was the one who founded Memorial Day.

Although people had been decorating the graves of Civil War soldiers for a long time before Memorial Day came into play, the Union general John A. Logan unofficially solidified the holiday. He famously declared , “The 30th of May, 1868, is designated for the purpose of strewing with flowers, or otherwise decorating the graves of comrades who died in defense of their country during the late rebellion, and whose bodies now lie in almost every city, village and hamlet churchyard in the land.” It wasn’t until the official Uniform Monday Holiday Act went in effect in 1971 that it was changed to the final Monday in May.

Before it was Memorial Day, it was Decoration Day.

Since the early days, the holiday’s primary activity has been decorating the graves of the fallen with flags, flowers, and other memorial trinkets. Hence, “Decoration Day” was used long before “Memorial Day.”

Many different cities claim to be the birthplace of Memorial Day.

In the Library of Congress, you’ll find a declaration from President Lyndon Johnson, in which he named Waterloo, New York, the official “ Birthplace of Memorial Day ” due to a celebration in the town back in 1866. However, other cities are known to have celebrated Memorial Day much earlier. Exactly where the first celebration of Memorial Day was held is still argued to this day.

Memorial Day is tied to the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.

On May 30, 1921 , four unknown soldiers were exhumed from four WWI cemeteries in France. One was selected at random, then transported to Arlington National Cemetery, where he was interred in the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier on November 11, 1921. Since that day, the tomb has been under the constant supervision of the Tomb Guard sentinels, who watch the guard the tomb 24/7, 365 days a year, in any weather condition. Upon the tomb is inscribed, “Here rests in honored glory an American soldier known but to God.”

Though a fun day, Memorial Day is also a day for reflection and respect. While this year’s celebrations may look different, it’s the perfect time to rethink this holiday, what it means, and who it’s for. With these historical tidbits, we wish you and yours a happy Memorial Day.

How to Be a Great Neighbor

Tue, 21 Apr 2020 04:25:00 GMT

All apartment communities have different and unique personalities, just like families do. Some tend to be closer to a collective subculture of recluses while others are more open to having block parties. Regardless of the vibe in your neighborhood, there are still rules of basic etiquette that apply to all. Here are some tips:

Keep the Noise to a Minimum

If you live in an apartment building, do not run around screaming at the top of your lungs in the middle of the night. If you live on a farm in the middle of nowhere, Nebraska, then sure, yell until the cows come home. But if your neighbors live on the other side of your walls, be courteous by taking your band practice elsewhere.

Don’t honk your horn every time you pull into the apartment parking lot. There’s no need. If you’re trying to get a hold of someone in the apartment, use your cell phone. Or, if you’re picking that special someone up for a date, maybe show your apartment neighbors how classy you are and knock on the door.

Keep Your Space Appealing

Here’s a fact: when you don’t take care of the outside of your property, whether it be the area designated as your front porch, or even the apartment parking lot, it diminishes the collective property value of your complex. No one likes to see junk around, so keep it clean and throw that trash away.

There is a place for toys, skateboards, bicycles, and other fun amenities, but that place is not in front of your doorway or on your patio. Keep your “curb appeal,” well, appealing for all of those walking by.

Also, if you see something that needs to be repaired, let the service team know so they can make the repair!

Smile and Wave to your Neighbors

You don’t have to be an extrovert to be a good neighbor, but it is advisable to at least introduce yourself to them. Show them you’re friendly and that you’re a contributing member of society. You’d be surprised just how far a single smile and wave can go, as well.

When you make an effort to be a friendly neighbor, you will also feel better about your environment. The neighborhood will look more beautiful, and more than likely, you’ll be more content at your home.

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

Thu, 26 Mar 2020 21:07:00 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 19:24:00 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 03:08:00 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.