<h2>Find a Tree to Fit Your Apartment</h2>
<p style="font-weight: 400;">Evergreen trees are a quintessential holiday decoration, but full-size real and artificial trees can get too bulky.</p>
<p style="font-weight: 400;">Here are some alternatives:</p>
<ul style="font-weight: 400;">
<li>Slim trees: A skinnier tree still makes a big impression. This style requires less space than traditional-sized trees and is good for narrow rooms.</li>
<li>Half trees: This type of holiday tree has a flat side that lines up flush against a wall.</li>
<li>Tabletop trees: Place several miniature trees around your apartment to add a festive touch throughout your home.</li>
<li>Wall decals: Layer lights, garlands and decals to create a tree design on a wall of your apartment.</li>
</ul>
<h2>Use Tabletop and Wall Space</h2>
<p style="font-weight: 400;">Tables, desks, bookcases and shelves are great spots to add holiday touches. Swap out your <a href="/about-our-company/blog/apartment-decorating-ideas-on-a-budget/">everyday décor</a> for seasonal florals, trinkets and lights. Wreaths create a welcoming atmosphere as soon as you walk in your door.</p>
<p style="font-weight: 400;">Hang stockings from a coat rack, bookcase or shelf if you don’t have a mantel. Review your lease agreement to see the policy on using nails or temporary hooks and adhesive strips.</p>
<h2>Holiday Themes and Colors</h2>
<p style="font-weight: 400;">Deciding on a theme will help you choose appropriate decorations and create a cohesive display. Try a single style, or go all out and pair different themes.</p>
<p style="font-weight: 400;">Picking a color palette is another good place to start when deciding on festive décor. Red and green are traditional holiday colors, but you may also consider silver, gold, blue, white and purple to add more variety.</p>
<p style="font-weight: 400;">You don’t have to splurge on different furniture to create the ultimate holiday home. Use what you have and add pops of festive colors and patterns with throw pillows, blankets and rugs.</p>
<h2>Light Up the Night</h2>
<p style="font-weight: 400;">String strands of lights and garlands around your doorways, windows or mirrors. Drape your patio or balcony with colorful lights to brighten a winter night, or try white lights for a subtler effect. Add lights to a glass bowl or vase to create a sparkling tabletop display.</p>
<p style="font-weight: 400;">Candles are another décor option that adds a cozy glow and festive scent to your space. You may need to use battery-powered candles if your apartment community doesn’t allow open flames.</p>
<h2>Keep Safety in Mind</h2>
<p style="font-weight: 400;">Be aware of the following decoration safety tips:</p>
<ul style="font-weight: 400;">
<li>Never leave a lit candle or wax melting pot unattended.</li>
<li>Keep candles on a sturdy surface away from flammable decorations.</li>
<li>Position trees away from air vents and portable heaters.</li>
<li>Check electric cords for fraying.</li>
<li>Don’t overload a single outlet with too many extension cords.</li>
<li>Use a power strip to plug in multiple strings of lights.</li>
<li>Turn off all lights and decorations before you leave your apartment.</li>
</ul>
<p style="font-weight: 400;">Ardent Communities has apartments in Columbus, Ohio, that provide plenty of space for your holiday décor. <a href="/about-our-company/contact-us/">Contact us</a> online to learn about available apartments and amenities.</p>


Tips for Decorating Your Apartment for the Holidays

<h2>Have an Honest Conversation</h2>
<p>Personal finances are a sensitive subject, even if you’re talking with your best friend. However, it’s an important conversation that should happen before you <a href="/about-our-company/blog/five-tips-to-save-on-moving-expenses/">move in</a> together.</p>
<p>Discussing the following will give you an idea of your roommate’s finances:</p>
<ul>
<li>Their job stability</li>
<li>Monthly income</li>
<li>Personal expenses such as car insurance, loans and phone bill</li>
<li>Their credit score</li>
</ul>
<h2>Discuss Shared and Individual Expenses</h2>
<p>Rent and utilities like water, electricity and heating are commonly shared costs between roommates. Other optional expenses include internet, cable, streaming services and <a href="/about-our-company/blog/busting-myths-about-renters-insurance/">renters’ insurance</a>. You’ll need to discuss who will pay for those services or if you’d like to split them evenly. For example, you both watch Netflix, but it’s your roommate’s account. He or she may wish for you to chip in for their subscription since you’re sharing the account.</p>
<h2>Decide How to Pay for Groceries</h2>
<p>Working out how to pay for groceries might be tricky. You and your roommate may have different eating habits and schedules. <a href="/about-our-company/blog/your-guide-to-grilling-in-an-apartment/">You may like to cook</a> while your roommate prefers takeout, making it hard to determine what you need to fill your fridge and pantry.</p>
<p>Buying your own food is an option, but will you finish things like milk and condiments on your own? Discuss which foods and beverages you’re willing to share and take turns buying those items. You could also split the cost of cleaning supplies. Each roommate can buy their supplies or divide the supplies per room. One person buys <a href="/about-our-company/blog/first-apartment-checklist-the-items-youll-need-to-feel-at-home/">items for the kitchen</a>, while the other purchases for the bathroom.</p>
<h2>Pick Someone to Pay the Bills</h2>
<p>Most rent and utility bills require a primary account to make payments. Having one person pay monthly expenses all at once is often easier than separate payments from multiple people, which can lead to confusion and over- or under-payments.</p>
<p>Discuss who would best handle the expense schedule. That person should create a deadline for each roommate’s portion of their expenses to ensure everything is paid on time. Or split up the bills per roommate and collect each other’s share after it’s been paid. For example, you take charge of rent and electricity payments while your roommate ensures the water and heating bills are covered.</p>
<h2>Record and Track Expenses</h2>
<p>You’ll have several monthly bills to manage, and you may encounter a situation where you or your roommate can’t remember if you paid. Tracking expenses is a must, whether in a notebook or on a spreadsheet or app.</p>
<p>Collect your monthly statements and keep them in a communal space where everyone can find them. Highlight the due date and amount or input them in a spreadsheet. You or your roommate should log the date next to each bill once it’s been paid to eliminate confusion and error.</p>
<p>Ardent Communities has several apartment and townhouse <a href="/about-our-company/blog/columbus-is-booming-why-you-should-consider-making-the-move/">communities in Columbus, Ohio</a>. <a href="/about-our-company/contact-us/">Connect with us</a> online to learn about our residences and application process.</p>


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<h2>Outdoor Activities in Westerville, OH</h2>
<p><a href="https://www.inniswood.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Innis Metro Park:</a> This 123-acre nature preserve is open year-round and full of streams, woodlands, wildflowers, landscaped gardens and trails. This park has a horticultural library and hosts local artists in the main room each month.</p>
<p><a href="https://columbusrecparks.com/facilities/reservoirs/hoover-reservoir/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Hoover Reservoir Park &amp; Sharon Woods:</a> Constructed in 1955 to supply water to Columbus, you’ll find plenty of activities at the 4,700-acre park, including:</p>
<ul>
<li>Boating</li>
<li>Swimming</li>
<li>Fishing</li>
<li>Disc golf</li>
<li>Hiking trails</li>
<li>Picnic areas</li>
</ul>
<p><a href="https://www.metroparks.net/parks-and-trails/sharon-woods/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Sharon Woods</a>: Home to towering forests and prairie fields with several paved, gravel and natural hiking trails under two miles. Fish at the lake, take your pet for a stroll or come back in the winter for sledding.</p>
<p><a href="https://parks.westerville.org/facilities/highland-park-aquatic-center" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Highland Park Aquatic Center:</a> There’s something for everyone at the Highland Park Aquatic Center.</p>
<ul>
<li>An eight-lane, 25-meter pool</li>
<li>Two water slides</li>
<li>A lazy river</li>
<li>A simulated rock slide</li>
<li>A spray playground</li>
</ul>
<h2>Westerville Golf Center</h2>
<p>The golf center is open to players of all skill levels. There are 100 tees and 40 heated stalls, so you can practice driving year-round. Adults and children can take lessons or head to the miniature golf course for a family outing. <a href="https://www.westervillegolf.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Westerville Golf Center</a> also has batting cages open daily.</p>
<h2>Westerville History Museum and Hanby House</h2>
<p>Explore the past at <a href="https://westervillelibrary.org/museum/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Westerville History Museum</a>. Westerville was once ground zero for the prohibition movement and the Anti-Saloon League. The <a href="https://www.ohiohistory.org/visit/browse-historical-sites/hanby-house/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Hanby House</a> is another historical site that was the home of Benjamin Hanby, a composer who wrote “Up on the Housetop.” The house was also part of the Underground Railroad and one of the few open to the public in Central Ohio.</p>
<h2>Urban Float Polaris</h2>
<p>The float spa is located off Polaris Parkway in the northwestern corner of Westerville. Unwind in a sensory-managed DreamPod to relieve physical and mental tension. The pods at <a href="https://www.urbanfloat.com/urban-float-columbus-westerville" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Urban Float Polaris</a> also use a full-spectrum infrared sauna and red light therapy to provide pain relief, treat skin conditions and improve circulation.</p>
<h2>Restaurants in Westerville, Ohio</h2>
<p><a href="https://www.uptowndeliandbrew.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Uptown Deli &amp; Brew</a>: Grab a sandwich and a craft beer from Temperance Row Brewing while you lounge on the patio and people-watch on State Street.</p>
<p><a href="https://www.thenorthstarcafe.com/location/northstar-cafe-westerville/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Northstar Café</a>: This Westerville staple is open from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily and offers breakfast, brunch, lunch and dinner items made from locally grown, organic food.</p>
<p><a href="https://www.101beerkitchen.com/westerville-ohio" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">101 Beer Kitchen</a>: The extensive craft beer list is complimented by rustic food options, including blackened walleye, housemade macaroni, ale and cheddar soup and the 101 burger.</p>
<p><a href="https://www.myrustybucket.com/locations/westerville" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Rusty Bucket</a>: Located on Polaris Parkway, Rusty Bucket features classic tavern fare like fish and chips, burgers, Reuben sandwiches and pizza.</p>
<h2>Moving to the Area? Check out 1-, 2- &amp; 3-Bedroom Westerville Apartments!</h2>
<p>Find your apartment in Westerville, Ohio, at Ardent Communities. <a href="/apartments/westerville/andrew-reserve/">Andrew Reserve</a> has luxury one-, two- and three-bedroom suites that provide ample living space. <a href="/about-our-company/contact-us/">Contact us</a> online to apply.</p>


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<h2>Direct Communication</h2>
<p>An apartment community is a property manager’s job site and, sometimes, their home too. They are your go-to person if you have questions or concerns about the community. Property managers are typically available 24/7, so you can contact them during business hours and <a href="/for-our-residents/after-hours-emergency-maintenance/">in the event of an emergency</a>.</p>
<p>Having that accessibility builds relationships between the property manager and tenants, which can help you feel more at home in your community.</p>
<p><a href="/about-our-company/blog/looking-for-your-first-apartment-heres-what-to-do/">If you’re looking for an apartment</a>, an onsite property manager makes it easier to learn about vacancies and may take you on tours without scheduling an appointment. They also provide peace of mind because someone is always available to help.</p>
<h2>Groundskeeping and Facility Maintenance</h2>
<p>Property management and maintenance crews are responsible for the upkeep of:</p>
<ul>
<li>Available rental units</li>
<li>Lawns and gardens</li>
<li>Indoor community spaces such as the clubhouse, resident cyber station, coffee bar and gym</li>
<li>Outdoor spaces like the pool, sundeck, firepit and outdoor grilling area</li>
<li>Laundry areas</li>
</ul>
<p>They regulate daily operations and maintain cleanliness so you can enjoy the amenities. Any maintenance requests are sent directly to the onsite property manager, who contacts the crew on your behalf and schedules service.</p>
<h2>Security</h2>
<p>A property manager is the eyes and ears of your apartment community. It’s their job to keep the grounds secure. That may include watching for loitering non-residents and illegally parked cars and checking nighttime security.</p>
<p>Property managers will also monitor guest activity to ensure residents follow visitor guidelines, especially in community areas. They can contact the authorities for you if you have a safety concern or need to file a complaint.</p>
<h2>Timely Responses and Assistance</h2>
<p>You’ll have access to administrative and maintenance staff when you contact your property manager for prompt assistance. Like Ardent Communities, some apartment communities offer online rent and maintenance request portals, so you can submit concerns online. A property manager provides personal and efficient responses to your needs, so you don’t have to wait for a response.</p>
<p>Contact your property manager for:</p>
<ul>
<li>Lockouts</li>
<li>Maintenance requests, like a leaking faucet</li>
<li>Electrical issues</li>
<li>Rent questions</li>
<li>Noisy neighbors</li>
<li>Community information</li>
</ul>
<p>Ardent Communities is proud to employ onsite property managers to address our residents’ needs. <a href="/about-our-company/contact-us/">Connect with us online</a> to learn about our locations and amenities.</p>


Apartment Community with Onsite Management

4 Reasons to Find an Apartment Community with Onsite Management

<p>This city was once home to the Mingo and Shawnee Native American tribes before it was settled in 1808. It’s a perfect representation of small-town Ohio and is chock full of eateries, shops, entertainment and activities.</p>
<h2>For the Food and Beverage Connoisseurs</h2>
<p><a href="https://www.staasbrewing.com/"><strong>Staas Brewing Company</strong></a><strong>:</strong> This local staple was the first brewery founded in the area after Prohibition ended. They offer Belgian and English beers and regularly change their brews on tap.</p>
<p><a href="https://richwoodcoffee.com/"><strong>Richwood Coffee</strong></a><strong>:</strong> Enjoy coffee with a cause. Richwood Coffee sells hot and cold coffee drinks, smoothies and specialty items. Every purchase funds donations to the Logan County Education Foundation and K9s 4 America.</p>
<p><a href="https://chelleybelly.com/"><strong>Chelley Belly Artisan Eatery</strong></a><strong>:</strong> Gourmet sandwiches, salads and soups are always on the menu at Chelley Belly. They also offer a variety of hot, blended and iced coffees.</p>
<p><a href="https://blendofsevenwinery.com/"><strong>Blend of Seven Winery</strong></a><strong>:</strong> Choose from a wide selection of red, blush, port, rose and white wines. They also offer food for delivery and pickup.</p>
<p><a href="https://opa-grill-tavern.business.site/"><strong>Opa Grill &amp; Tavern</strong></a><strong>:</strong> If you’re craving Greek cuisine, then Opa Grill &amp; Tavern is the place for you. You’ll find classic Greek fare, including gyro platters, falafel, kopanisti and fried mushrooms.</p>
<h2>For the Entertainment Seekers</h2>
<p><a href="https://www.thestrandtheatre.net/"><strong>The Strand Theatre</strong></a><strong>:</strong> This historic building is the oldest movie theatre in Ohio. Catch the latest films without fighting the crowds in Columbus. You can purchase tickets online or at the box office.</p>
<p><a href="https://www.artscastle.org/"><strong>Delaware County Cultural Arts</strong></a><strong>:</strong> Get in touch with your inner artist. The arts center, also known as The Arts Castle, offers drawing, painting, photography, stained glass, fiber arts, jewelry and ceramics classes.</p>
<p><a href="https://cityartcenter.blogspot.com/"><strong>City Art Center</strong></a><strong>:</strong> This nonprofit organization provides various exhibitions, events and outreach programs.</p>
<h2>For the Outdoor Adventurers</h2>
<p><a href="https://olentangycaverns.com/"><strong>Olentangy Indian Caverns</strong></a><strong>:</strong> This network of caves and passages was carved by an underground river. The caverns are open March through October and feature self-guided tours, a petting zoo and a maze hunt.</p>
<p><a href="https://ohiodnr.gov/go-and-do/plan-a-visit/find-a-property/delaware-state-park"><strong>Delaware State Park</strong></a><strong>: </strong>This park is home to dense woods, meadows and Delaware Lake. There’s plenty of outdoor recreation, including boating, hunting, fishing and swimming.</p>
<p><a href="https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/ohio/gallant-woods-park"><strong>Gallant Woods Preserve</strong></a><strong>:</strong> This easy hiking trail is located on Buttermilk Hill Road. There are lots of forested paths, boardwalks and lush meadows to explore.</p>
<p><a href="https://preservationparks.com/parks/deer-haven/"><strong>Deer Haven Preserve:</strong></a> Forest, meadows, wetlands, ponds – Deer Haven Preserve has it all. The nature center has wildlife exhibits and observation windows, so you can enjoy the scenic views all year.</p>
<p><a href="https://www.delawareohio.net/Home/Components/FacilityDirectory/FacilityDirectory/6/146"><strong>Blue Limestone Park:</strong></a> This park is named for the blue-lined limestone rock formations. There are play areas, fishing spots and basketball and pickleball courts.</p>
<h2>For the Players and Game-Lovers</h2>
<p><strong>Golf courses:</strong> There are plenty of golf courses and clubs to choose from, including <a href="http://glenrossgc.com/">Glenn Ross Golf Club</a>, <a href="https://www.delawaregolfclub.com/">Delaware Golf Club</a>, <a href="https://www.delawareohio.net/government/departments/parks-recreation/hidden-valley-golf-course">Hidden Valley Golf Course</a> and <a href="https://www.oakhaven.com/">Oakhaven Golf Club</a>.</p>
<p><a href="https://boardsandbeanscafe.com/"><strong>Boards and Beans:</strong></a> This game café has various board and card games. You have unlimited access to everything for a small fee and can enjoy food and beverages while you play.</p>
<p><a href="https://battlingbishops.com/sports/2011/10/31/Selby%20Stadium.aspx"><strong>Selby Stadium:</strong></a> Delaware is home to Ohio Wesleyan University’s Selby Stadium, where you can watch football games, track and field events, lacrosse and field hockey.</p>
<p>Are you looking at apartments in Delaware, Ohio? Find your home at Ardent Communities’ <a href="/apartments/delaware/seattle-house/">Seattle House</a> on Kerry Park Place. The spacious suites are complemented by impressive community amenities and exceptional resident services.</p>


Our Blog

Tips for Decorating Your Apartment for the Holidays

5 Tips for Creating a Budget with a Roommate

Top Places to Explore in the City of Westerville, OH

4 Reasons to Find an Apartment Community with Onsite Management

Delaware, Ohio: A Town of Hidden Treasures

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