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If you’re like most people, you probably had a few holiday parties over the past month. And if you’re also like most people, those parties likely resulted in at least some level of mess and clean up afterward. But don’t worry–we’ve got you covered with some tips on how to clean up after your holiday party so that you can get back to enjoying your festive season stress-free!  

  

Have a Plan for Your Leftovers  

It is always important to be prepared when cooking for large groups. Have a plan in place for dealing with the inevitable leftovers. Some possible solutions are to give them away–perhaps offer to take them to your co-workers or family. By having a plan in place and using the resources available, your fridge won’t be overloaded with leftovers that go bad by the time you get to them.   

   

Don’t Let Dirty Dishes Pile Up  

It can be tempting to let those dirty dishes pile up in the sink, especially when life gets too busy. But why let mess and bacteria fester while you’re too preoccupied to deal with it? By washing dishes immediately after use, not only will you enjoy a perpetually clean kitchen, but you’ll also drastically reduce the time that needs to be spent washing them all at once. When dirty dishes stay in the sink too long, it can lead to odors and even attract bugs! Staying on top of this chore is an easy way to make sure your cooking area stays squeaky clean!  

   

Vacuum and Mop  

If you spill anything on the floors of your apartment, it’s best to clean it up right away! Keep a carpet stain removal cleaner handy to get up any tough stains that may occur. Don’t let a small stain be the reason you don’t get your security deposit back! 

Vacuuming and mopping your floors regularly is an important part of a thorough cleaning. It can eliminate dirt, dust, and crumbs quickly and efficiently. Not only does it remove debris but it also helps get rid of germs that can spread throughout your home. Vacuuming can help pick up the most stubborn particles so you don’t have to worry about tracking dirt around your house. Mopping can remove any remaining contaminants from the surface of your flooring and provide a shining finish that will make your floors gleam for days. So don’t forget to vacuum first then mop each area to ensure your home looks its best.   

   

Wipe Down Surfaces  

Be sure to wipe down all surfaces, such as countertops, tables, and chairs with warm water and soap or a disinfecting wipe. This step is especially crucial if someone in your household or one of your guests has been ill. Taking this extra precautionary measure will ensure that the spread of germs is minimized and everyone stays safe.   

   

Take Out the Trash Regularly  

Taking out the trash regularly is essential for ensuring that garbage doesn’t pile up and overflow. It’s important to empty your garbage can regularly. Doing so will ensure that it doesn’t become overfilled, leading to an unpleasant smell or attracting unwanted bugs or critters.   

Additionally, keeping the garbage can emptied consistently will help you save time and energy when it’s time to take out the trash–this way you’re not struggling with an overflowing can each week. Taking out the trash regularly is a small task that can have large rewards, so start getting into the habit of taking care of your trash to reap the benefits.  

 

MMC Properties is a professional property management company with over 30 years of experience managing rental homes and apartment complexes in the Middle Tennessee area. We’re licensed and insured, and we pride ourselves on our excellent customer service. For more information or to get a quote, please call us at (615) 849-9006 or visit our website at mmcproperties.com.   

 

For many of us, the holidays are a time to get together with family and friends. But if you’re renting your home, you might not feel like you can make it your own for the season. Here are some great ideas for renter-friendly Christmas decorations that will help get you into the holiday spirit without damaging your lease!  

 

Get A Small Tree Good for Any Ceiling Height

Having a small tree in your living space is the perfect way to bring some holiday cheer, but it can be tricky to find one that will fit regardless of your ceiling height. If you’re looking for something that can stay year-round, consider a bonsai tree or a rosemary tree — they’ll look beautiful and require minimal upkeep indoors. And if you’d prefer something with more height, dwarf varieties of common evergreens can give you an extra boost while still staying within your desired size limit. With these options in mind, you’ll be able to choose the perfect small tree fit no matter the ceiling height!  

 

Use Battery-Operated String Lights to Save Money

As the winter holidays approach, it’s time to begin planning decorations. When it comes to brightening up your space, you don’t have to choose between pricey electric lights and expensive electricity bills. Battery-operated lighting is an easy solution that can be used indoors or outdoors and is also cost-effective. Not only are battery-operated lights relatively inexpensive, but they also require no additional installation and they don’t interfere with other devices in your home that may be using a lot of energy. Furthermore, battery-operated lights come in a variety of colors, shapes, and sizes so you won’t have to sacrifice aesthetics when you make the switch! Upgrade your home decor this season without breaking the bank by incorporating vibrant battery-operated lights.  

 

Use Adhesive Hooks to Hang Décor 

If you’re looking for an easy, mess-free way to decorate your home with holiday cheer, then adhesive hooks are a great solution. They stick to any smooth surface and can be used to hang up stockings, garlands, ornaments, ribbons—anything that is lightweight—without the need for nails or screws. No surface damage, no drilling holes in the wall, and no worries about spending extra time patching up walls after the holidays come and go—they are the easiest tool for the holiday spirit. Get creative: hang pictures from adhesive hooks to make a festive display!  

 

With these three tips, you can make sure your holiday season is merry and bright – without busting your budget. Whether you’re looking for a small tree that will fit any space or want to save money on your electric bill, we’ve got you covered. And if you’re worried about damaging your walls with nails, command strips are the perfect solution for hanging up stockings. So, what are you waiting for? Get started on your holiday decor today! 

The holiday season is upon us and that means lots of parties, gatherings, and general merriment. But it’s important to remember that along with all the fun comes to an increased risk of accidents and injuries. So, while you’re out celebrating, make sure to take some precautions to keep yourself safe. Here are a few tips for staying safe this holiday season: 

 

Create A Budget and Stick to It  

Creating and maintaining a budget is an important step on the path to financial stability. There are many tools out there to help you make your budget, whether it invites you to examine where you can save money or dig deeper into individual expenses. The most important thing to remember is that budgets are dynamic and should change as life circumstances evolve. For long-term financial success consumers need to avoid overspending to stay on track with their goals. Although it may require sacrifice, remaining loyal to your budget can not only reduce financial stress but also help you feel more secure ‒ both emotionally and financially ‒ in the future. 

 

Use Safe Payment Methods 

Protecting ourselves from identity theft is increasingly important as more and more people take to online shopping. We must take the necessary safety measures while shopping, whether it be in physical stores or on the internet. Credit cards and debit cards are widely accepted payment methods; however, these can be open to fraud if used improperly. Due to this, various other secure payment methods now exist that allow shoppers to remain safeguarded when making purchases. From contactless mobile payments to digital wallets such as Apple Pay, there are many choices available to help shoppers avoid being caught at risk of identity theft while they shop. Let’s make sure we shop responsibly and only use safe payment methods so that we can stay one step ahead of any kind of fraudulent activity. 

 

Keep Gifts Out of Sight 

The holidays are a time for giving and receiving, but one should be mindful not to advertise what they have especially expensive items. Keeping your gifts hidden and out of sight protects your prized possessions from being stolen or damaged in addition to protecting you from becoming a target for unwanted attention. Whether hiding them away in a locked room or tucking them away in the deepest recesses of a closet, always take extra care to secure your valuables during this season of gifting. 

 

Travel Safely and Plan Accordingly 

Planning and remaining aware of your surroundings are two essential steps to traveling safely. Researching the area you will be visiting, such as what type of transportation is available, potential medical needs, and local warnings or advisories can help ensure a successful trip. Knowing the area you plan to explore can also keep you safe in unexpected circumstances; it is best to be prepared for any situation. If possible, let family members or friends know where you plan to visit and what time frame you intend on staying away. This not only adds a comfort level; it is also helpful in case of emergency. Traveling safely does not end at the beginning stages; stay aware of your surroundings throughout your travels and make sure you are following all safety protocols especially related to health concerns or pandemic-related advisories. 

 

Stay Home if You Don’t Feel Well 

As we approach the holiday season, it is important to remember that our health, and that of those around us, comes first. Staying at home if you are feeling sick is one way to show care for your community and help protect the most vulnerable members of society. It’s not worth taking a chance on exposing others to an illness – no gathering is worth sacrificing another’s health. Though it may be difficult this year, protecting each other will help ensure that future holidays can be celebrated safely and together. Let’s keep these values in mind as we work together to stay healthy this winter. 

 

Enjoy Your Holidays! 

The holidays are an incredibly special time of the year. Not only do we have the opportunity to renew our relationships with family and friends, but there’s also a special atmosphere that invites us to relax and appreciate what matters most in life. It’s a reminder to balance work with play and let loose a bit! So, this holiday season, take some time to enjoy yourself. Get out of your routine and have some fun with your loved ones – you won’t regret making time for relaxation and leisure! 

  

The holidays are a great time to catch up with family and friends, but it’s important to stay safe and not overspend. Creating a budget can help you avoid financial stress, and sticking to safe payment methods will keep your identity secure. Keep your gifts hidden and out of sight to prevent theft, and be aware of your surroundings when traveling. If you’re feeling sick, it’s best to stay home so you don’t spread germs. Most importantly, enjoy yourself! 

It’s normal to feel a little homesick if you’re away at college. You’ve likely spent all your life at home, so being away and on your own may make you feel lonely sometimes. You can make your “home” away from home feel more comforting and welcoming by following these simple tips:   

 

Furnishings   

It doesn’t matter where you live, but nowhere will feel like home if there’s no furniture! Some apartments come pre-furnished, which may make your life a lot easier. However, if you don’t want to look at pre-furnished apartments, there are simple (and less expensive) ways to furnish your apartment.   

For starters, you’re going to at least require the basics: a mattress, a bed frame, and a table and chairs. This table can also function as a desk to work at if you don’t want to buy a desk. Unless you want to sleep and eat on the floor you should at least have these few furniture items.   

If you’re moving into a place with roommates, you should discuss the common area furniture and who will supply what. Try to make it as even as possible so it doesn’t feel like one or the other person’s place. You’ll probably want couch/lounge chairs and some end tables in the common living area.   

Don’t forget the lights! If your apartment is dark and dreary, it can become depressing to spend time in. Pick up some lamps to brighten the apartment. Consider using fun lamps and colors to add even more color and flair!  

Read our blog on how to furnish your apartment or rental property on a budget for even more ideas!  

  

Decorations  

If you have roommates, you should probably double-check with them before decorating common areas. After all, it’s their apartment too! It’s also important to make sure that all your décor follows your apartment rules. You can always use adhesive strips and hooks that won’t damage the walls—but you should always make sure it’s okay with your property management/landlord.   

Consider incorporating throw pillows, blankets, and rugs into your space. Pick out your favorite colors or designs and these items will immediately bring life into any dull room!   

Even if your roommate disagrees with your décor ideas for the common area, you can still decorate your room (or side of the room) however you like. Hang up photos of your friends and family, posters, paintings, string lights, etc.—whatever makes you feel cozy! Making your space your own will immediately make it feel more like home.   

Having a couple or more plants will also bring some color and life to your apartment. Some plants like succulents or air plants are fairly easy to take care of (unless you’re cursed with a “black thumb”) and can be left alone for days at a time. If plants are too much for you, there are plenty of faux plants to choose from!   

  

Scents  

Try incorporating scents that remind you of your home into your apartment. If your apartment allows candles, buy a scent that you love and reminds you of home and burn it whenever you feel homesick. If your apartment doesn’t allow candles, you can try essential oil diffusers or reed diffusers to disperse your favorite scents around your place.   

  

Make It Student-Friendly  

As a college student, your number one priority should be your schoolwork. Make sure you have a place to study and get your schoolwork done. Keep your apartment clean and organized—a clutter-free space means it’s easier to focus and get stuff done!   

  

Check Out MMC Properties  

MMC Properties is a professional property management company with over 30 years of experience managing rental homes and apartment complexes in the Middle Tennessee area. We’re licensed and insured, and we pride ourselves on our excellent customer service. For more information or to get a quote, please call us at (615) 849-9006 or visit our website at mmcproperties.com.    

 

 

Are you looking to bring in more revenue with your rental properties? You can boost your property’s appeal by updating your property. Consider these upgrades to significantly boost your property’s value and earn more revenue:   

Remove Carpet and Install Tile  

Carpet is a thing of the past. Carpet stains easily and is difficult to clean. When a carpet is stained, it doesn’t look good and can cheapen the overall look of the apartment. Many pet owners don’t want to rent apartments or houses with carpets because they’re worried their pets might make a mess. You can attract a larger pool of renters if your rental has tile floors!  

What should you install instead of carpet? Try installing a laminate floor or luxury vinyl tile! There are many different design options to choose from. There are even some options that look and feel like wood! More renters will be attracted to units with tile instead of carpet because it looks great and is much easier to clean.   

As a landlord or property manager, you can save thousands of dollars every time a tenant moves out by not having carpet in a rental. Why? Because you’ll have to pay to have the carpets cleaned before anyone moves into the unit. Carpet cleaning can get pricy–it can be even pricier if the carpet is beyond saving and you have to replace the carpet altogether.   

Instead of having the carpets cleaned, you can simply vacuum and mop the floors! Laminate flooring or luxury vinyl tiles are super easy to install, relatively inexpensive and can last a long time. It doesn’t scratch easily, so you won’t need to worry about furniture marring the floors. Many are also highly resistant to water damage and are easy to repair. As long as you have a few extra tiles around you can replace the damaged tiles and the floors will look like new.   

Upgrade to Energy-Efficient Appliances  

Consider upgrading the appliances in your rentals to energy-efficient ones! Energy efficient appliances will appeal to renters because they’ll be attracted to the lower energy bills. Prospective tenants will be attracted to energy-efficient appliances (and new appliances in general).   

New appliances typically mean there will be fewer maintenance issues, and both you and your tenant will be able to relax knowing that there won’t be issues shortly. Stainless steel is especially attractive, and you’ll be able to charge more for rent!   

Upgrade the Kitchen & Bathroom  

If you’re going to get new appliances in the kitchen, consider renovating the kitchen as well! A fresh kitchen will pique a prospective tenant’s interest. Paint the cabinets in a sleek color like grey and upgrade the hardware or go for new cabinets altogether. Consider installing new countertops to match the rest of the upgraded kitchen! A newly renovated kitchen will significantly boost the amount you may charge for rent.  

If you’re getting new cabinets and countertops in the kitchen, you may as well do the same in the bathroom(s)! Tackle the whole bathroom with all-new utilities. Prospective tenants will love having an updated bathroom.   

Install New Windows  

Old windows can bring poor insulation, leading to drafts and unhappy tenants. No one wants to be cold in the winter and hot in the summer. Not only do new windows look great, but they will also keep heating and cooling costs lower.   

Upgrading to new windows can bring you a significant return on your investment! Prospective tenants will love it if your rental has new windows. They will increase energy efficiency in your rental and will significantly boost the appeal. If you choose to install double pane windows, your tenants will love the added noise reduction from the outside world! There are so many benefits of new windows.  

Hire a Property Management Team  

Hiring a property management team can also boost the appeal of your rental property! Many tenants prefer working with a team that they know can respond to their issues quickly and are always on-site. By having your property management team, you can earn more revenue and add to the experience of your tenants.   

For the best property management experience in Middle Tennessee, look no further than MMC. With a wide range of services including an in-house maintenance team, thorough resident screening, and access to licensed real estate agents, MMC can help you grow your business while freeing you up to pursue your passions. Call today! 

It’s almost time for the new school year! Are you preparing to live in an apartment off-campus this year? There are a few things you need to keep in mind when looking at apartments this year. Here are a few things to keep in mind during your apartment search:   

Your Budget  

The most important aspect to keep in mind is your budget. Make sure you know what you can afford to spend on rent and utilities. Take the time to figure out your budget and living expenses before you start looking at places to live. Don’t forget about the cost of your education! Know about all the upfront costs for an apartment before you sign the lease—because that may be the deciding factor for whether or not you can afford to live there.   

Upfront Costs  

Upfront costs will be due when you sign the lease before moving in. If you don’t have a regular income, you may need someone (like a parent or family member) to co-sign your lease. There are a few different fees that you’ll be required to pay before moving in:   

Move-in fees cover the costs of touch-ups to the rental. This includes stuff like new paint, carpet cleaning, keys, and sometimes reprogramming security. No one wants to live in someone else’s filth! The move-in fee covers this and more. This way the apartment will feel new when you move in.   

A security deposit covers the cost of any damage that may happen to the apartment while you live there. This deposit may be refunded when you move out if the apartment stays in good condition.   

The application fee typically covers the cost the landlord or property management spends on a background and credit check. The landlord/management wants to make sure they have responsible people living in their units!  

You may need to pay a holding fee if you can’t sign the lease or move in right away. The landlord/management may charge a holding fee to keep the rental unit open for you. Otherwise, they may lease it to another person.   

Recurring Costs   

Recurring costs will be the money you spend every month to live in the apartment. You’re required to pay your rent unless you want to be evicted. How much money can you afford to spend on rent? Are you going to have roommates to split the rent with? You can easily find a rent affordability calculator online to help you figure out what you can afford.   

Even when living in an apartment, you will still have utility bills to pay. Although this may depend on the property—sometimes utilities are included in the cost of the rent. Sometimes the rent may only include certain utilities like water and garbage. You need to consider how much it will cost to pay for your electric, gas, internet/cable, and other bills.   

Some complexes may even charge for amenities. Many properties offer on-site amenities like gyms or even a pool, but they may come at an extra cost. Depending on the property, amenities might be automatically included in the price of rent. Sometimes they aren’t.   

Finding An Apartment  

Once you know what your budget is, then it’s time to start looking at apartments. If you have a car then you’ll probably be able to save some money by living further away from campus. Or, if you live in an area with a public transportation system you may want to live close to a bus stop or train station.   

Know what size apartment you are looking for. If you don’t need much space, consider renting a studio apartment that’ll be cheaper than a one-bedroom. If you need more space, then look for a one-bedroom or two-bedroom apartment. Are you going to have a roommate? Your roommate will likely want their room so a two-bedroom apartment would be best.   

If you have a pet, then you will need to find a pet-friendly complex. Not all properties are pet-friendly, so make sure to double-check their rules before you seriously consider an apartment.   

What amenities do you need? Not all properties offer the same amenities. Do your research and study each property to make sure you end up living in the right one. Not all rentals have appliances like a washer and dryer. If you’re ok with that, consider finding a nearby laundromat where you can do your laundry.   

Some rental units come with their furniture. This may be more ideal for those who don’t want (or don’t have the money) to furnish their place. Furniture can be a burden for some student renters—especially when it comes time to move out and they have nowhere to put it.   

Once you find an apartment that suits your needs and your budget, visit it in person to make sure it’s legit. Be wary of scammers and always look at a property’s reviews online!   

Rent from MMC  

For the best property management experience in Middle Tennessee, look no further than MMC. With a wide range of services including an in-house maintenance team, thorough resident screening, and access to licensed real estate agents, MMC can help you grow your business while freeing you up to pursue your passions. Call today! 

Furnishing an apartment or a rental property may seem expensive, but it doesn’t have to be. You can start with only a few pieces of furniture that you need. The key is to have a list of what you need and know what your budget is. The more money you have, the more furniture you can buy. Try not to spend all your money on one or two pieces of furniture unless you need them—like a mattress! Here are some helpful ideas and tips to help you furnish your new apartment or rental on a budget:   

Know What You Need  

Make a list of the furniture that you need. Prioritize the furniture that you need first. Also, make measurements so you know what will fit in your space. Bigger furniture is usually more expensive, so opt for smaller pieces instead. A twin-sized mattress is considerably cheaper than a queen size, and you can always get a bigger one later if you need it. Look at this list of what you (probably) need:  

• Mattress  
• Shower curtain  
• Table (can be used to eat at or used like a desk)  
• Sofa/lounge chair  
• Dresser  
• Nightstand   
• Bedframe  

Whatever you add to your list, make sure to buy things in the order that you need them the most. Everyone needs a mattress for healthy sleep, but you may not need a nightstand when you first move in. You may also want to have a table and a chair to eat or work at. 

Shop Big-Box Stores  

Go to big-box stores to find cheap furniture that you assemble yourself. The furniture is often not of the best quality, but it’s a quick and easy solution to furnishing your place. Be careful because spending too much money at these big-box stores is easy.   

It’s easy to add a bunch of stuff to the cart because you’re in awe that it’s so cheap! However, when you’re in the checkout you’ll realize how much everything adds up. Make sure you go to these stores with a list of what you plan to buy. Also, consider purchasing your items online and picking them up in-store if possible. This way you will see how much your cart is worth before checking out!   

Go to Furniture Outlets  

Furniture outlets are a little pricier than big-box stores or shopping secondhand, but you will find high-quality furniture at a discounted price. At a furniture outlet, you’ll be able to find past season, overstocked, or gently damaged goods marked down in price. You may have to wait for your furniture to ship to your house.   

Try to time your purchases around holidays that carry big furniture sales like Labor Day, July 4th, or Black Friday. Outlets and other furniture stores tend to have pretty big sales around these holidays to compensate for lower sales during the summer and fall. You should be able to catch some big deals and furnish your apartment or rental space for a lot less.   

Consider Secondhand Furniture  

The best way to save money is to buy furniture secondhand. You can ask your family and friends if they have any old furniture that they would be willing to sell you. You’d be surprised how much furniture people keep because it’s easier to stow it away than throw it away.   

Drive around town and search for garage/yard sales. You can often find treasures that people are selling for cheap. Consider browsing sites like Facebook Marketplace to find secondhand furniture for sale in your area.   

Go to your local thrift stores. You can probably find a good piece of furniture or décor that will make your apartment feel homier.   

Rent Furniture  

Renting furniture is always an option! Consider renting your furniture, especially if you know you won’t be staying in one place for too long. If you travel a lot, renting furniture will just be easier and more cost-effective than buying new furniture and trying to sell it every time you move. If you’re a traveling nurse, a student, or even a part of a military family, renting furniture can save a lot of time and money.   

For the best property management experience in Middle Tennessee, look no further than MMC. With a wide range of services including an in-house maintenance team, thorough resident screening, and access to licensed real estate agents, MMC can help you grow your business while freeing you up to pursue your passions. Call today!  

As a landlord, you are responsible for upkeeping property and renting it out to tenants. When the property looks great and spotless, the tenants will respect you as a landlord more and are more likely to stay longer. If you’re a landlord and are unsure of how to prepare your rental for new tenants, follow these guidelines:   

#1 Perform a Walkthrough   

If you have tenants moving out, make sure you perform an exit walkthrough in the rental with them and take note of anything that may have changed about the property. Normal wear and tear are expected. Carpet and paint don’t last forever. However, if anything is off about the place, like broken tiles or torn window screens, write it down and take the cost for repairs out of their security deposit.   

It’s important to perform a walkthrough before any tenants look at the rental. As a landlord, your responsibility is to upkeep the property. Make sure everything works! Walk around the property and ensure that all outlets, appliances, lightbulbs, smoke, carbon monoxide detectors, and plumbing are in good working condition. If they’re not, have all issues fixed by the time any tenants move into the property. No tenants want to move into a rental and find out that things don’t work as they should. This looks bad for your property, and for you as a landlord.   

#2 Hire Professional Maintenance and Cleaning   

Unless you’re good with your hands, you may want to consider hiring some professional help when it comes to maintenance. If there are any issues with the plumbing or electrical, it’s better to have it done professionally than to DIY.   

The best time for renovations and updates is when no one occupies the rental unit. If you need to update or renovate anything about the rental, now is the time. With the current demand for homes and living spaces, you’ll be able to charge more for rent than your competitors if your rentals are newly renovated.   

Have the HVAC serviced and be sure to change the air filters. The HVAC systems need servicing at least once a year. Change the air filters before a new tenant moves in to ensure they don’t have any allergies from previous inhabitants.   

You’ll also want to hire a professional cleaning service to make the rental spotless for the next tenant. If the rental has carpets, make sure the carpets get cleaned by every tenant. Hire painters to refresh the paint in the rental. A fresh coat of paint will make the rental look bright and clean. New paint and clean carpets are the standards for most rental agreements.  

Does the rental have a yard that needs upkeep? Consider hiring a lawn service to tidy it up and make it look good for the next tenant. If it’s not in the rental agreement for the tenant to take care of the lawn, you may want to hire a lawn service that will come regularly.   

Consider hiring a property management team to help you take care of all these responsibilities and more! MMC is the premier property management team here in Middle Tennessee.   

#3 Ready the New Tenant 

If you have a new agreement with a tenant, great! Make sure to take pictures of the property before they move in so you have a baseline of how the rental looked after they move out. This helps you later on and gives you hard evidence to compare the state of the rental. If you don’t have a new tenant yet, you can still take pictures and use them to advertise the rental property!   

Make sure to collect the security deposit and the first month of rent before the next tenant moves in. Deposit the first month of rent before they move in so you know it clears. Walk through the property with the new tenant to go over the condition of the rental.   

For the best property management experience in Middle Tennessee, look no further than MMC. With a wide range of services including an in-house maintenance team, thorough resident screening, and access to licensed real estate agents, MMC can help you grow your business while freeing you up to pursue your passions. Call today! 

Looking for some budget-friendly activities to do this summer in Nashville? We’ve got you covered. Read on for some low-budget fun you can have with friends or with family!  

#1 Tennessee State Museum  

The Tennessee State Museum is a day trip that is suitable for the whole family. It offers free admission and has plenty of different exhibits to browse. It houses historical artifacts like a 3,500-year-old mummy and Andrew Jackson’s top hat! Some of the exhibits are subject to change, but the permanent exhibits focus on the state’s history like the Civil War and Andrew Jackson’s influence.  

#2 Cooter’s Place  

Calling all Dukes of Hazzard fans! Take a trip to Cooter’s place and take pictures with a replica of the infamous 1969 orange Dodge Charger. Ben Jones (the actor who played Cooter in the show) and his wife are the proprietors of all Cooter’s locations, and they invite guests to browse memorabilia from the show and Dukes of Hazzard merchandise. Make sure to pick up a souvenir for the road!  

#3 Warner Parks  

Edwin Warner Park and Percy Warner Park are two of Nashville’s premier public parks. Boasting over 3.1 acres, there’s no shortage of adventure to be found here. There are all sorts of fun activities to do here with your family and dog! Have fun at the dog park, take the family on the hiking or biking trails, take a trip to the equestrian center, or learn about some plants at the nature center. It’s great for a free day of fun with the whole family—make sure to bring some beverages and snacks!  

#4 Music City Walk of Fame & Nashville Music Garden 

Nashville and music go hand-in-hand. Walk down 4^th Ave S Street and take a gander at all the sidewalk stars! See stars from big names in the industry like Jimi Hendrix, Reba McIntire, Elvis Presley, Dolly Parton, Johnny Cash, Wynonna Judd, and more. Take pictures with some of your favorite musicians’ stars for memorabilia.  

While you’re walking the block, consider stopping by the Nashville Music Garden. The garden boasts a 2,700-square-foot flower and plant collection that honor the musicians who’ve played a large role in the development of the music industry.  

#5 Arrington Vineyards 

The Arrington Vineyards is a 40-minute drive south of Nashville, but it is well worth the trip! Every weekend you can catch the free admission and first come, first served “Music in the Vines.” Is there anything better than tasting some award-winning wine while listening to live jazz and bluegrass music? Enjoy some food from Simply Living Life and spend the weekend like Dionysus.  

#6 Your Very Own Beer Crawl 

You can create your own beer crawl with Music City Brew Hop. Brew Hop is a public service that operates on an hour-long loop around the city and makes stops at some of Nashville’s finest craft beer breweries. Unlike some transportation, you won’t be added to a list of “overserved,” and you’ll be able to hop on and off the bus all day for the price of one ticket. The bus avoids the high-traffic downtown areas, so you’ll be able to see more of the charm Nashville has to offer.  

For the best property management experience in Middle Tennessee, look no further than MMC. With a wide range of services including an in-house maintenance team, thorough resident screening, and access to licensed real estate agents, MMC can help you grow your business while freeing you up to pursue your passions. Call today! 

Have you ever lost your phone or your keys in your apartment and spent hours trying to find them? Or maybe you’re looking for a specific shirt and you just can’t find it anywhere. Living in an apartment doesn’t have to be a puzzle. Organization can look different for everyone, but if you’re struggling to keep your space in check, we have some tips and tricks that can help you out. Here are a few organization hacks to utilize in your apartment:   

#1 Start Small  

Starting small can motivate you to continue organizing the rest of your apartment. Work on clearing the table. Do some laundry and put away your clothes. Clear off the countertops in your bathroom. Once you’re done with one task, the next task won’t feel as overwhelming. You don’t even have to tackle the whole apartment in one day. Start with one room and move to the next. It can be done through multiple days, and weekends—whenever you have the time and energy.   

Have extra trash bags on hand in case you come across something you don’t want or need anymore. Consider going through your closet and donating old clothes to a local charity.   

#2 Designate Spaces   

Allocate space for specific functions. Your main living area can hold multiple functions, but rooms like the bathroom and bedroom have those names for a reason. As easy as it is to eat a meal in bed while watching your favorite show, try to keep food in the kitchen and dining areas. When you’re done eating, clean your dishes right away so they don’t pile up in the sink. Seeing a sink full of dishes when you need a plate or a glass can feel really overwhelming. Rather than clean them in one fell swoop, it’s easier (and less time-consuming) to wash as you use them.  

Organize your kitchen by having designated cabinets or drawers for objects. Consider keeping all your spices together and have a cabinet for storage containers and dishes. Keep your cutlery in the same drawer. Buy a tray that you can put in your drawers that helps you separate them by function, so you don’t need to dig for what you need.   

#3 Utilize “Wasted” Space  

Even if you live in a small space, you may have space that you didn’t even know was possible. Consider using adhesive hooks or shelves on the walls for keys, books, and other miscellaneous items that can take up space. You may also want to purchase furniture that boasts extra storage capabilities, such as ottomans that can host blankets or a couch with storage inside. Follow the proverb, “a place for everything and everything in its place.”   

If you have space under your bed, perhaps it’s time to purchase some storage containers that can hold blankets or out-of-season clothes when you don’t need them. Save even more space by using vacuum sealable bags that shrink the space items like clothes or comforters can take up. Label storage containers so you can remember what is in them. If there are things you need that are stored, this can make finding them significantly easier and save you time digging through bins.    

Looking at your apartment after it’s tidied and organized is like a breath of fresh air. It’ll feel like a brand-new space and will feel bigger when there’s not as much clutter in line of sight.   

For the best property management experience in Middle Tennessee, look no further than MMC. With a wide range of services including an in-house maintenance team, thorough resident screening, and access to licensed real estate agents, MMC can help you grow your business while freeing you up to pursue your passions. Call today!