Corona Pointe Resort

Improve Your VIP Experience: Flexible Ways to Pay Rent and Build Credit at Corona Pointe Resort

Wed, 15 Apr 2026 20:38:44 GMT

At Corona Pointe Resort , 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 App

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 Pinata

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 Riverside 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 Corona Pointe Resort , 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.

Your Guide to Holiday Gifts and Activities in Riverside

Mon, 20 Nov 2023 19:59:28 GMT

After another year filled with challenges, it’s so nice to have the holidays to look forward to, and in Riverside, there’s a lot to see and experience.

Whether you’re a resident or just visiting, get ready for Christmas in Riverside by reading our guide: We’ve got holiday activities, exciting shows, and unique shopping experiences to make for a memorable time.

Activities

Looking for holiday activities in Riverside? You’re in luck! There’s a ton to do here, from picking out your own Christmas tree and munching on holiday desserts to making a gift for someone on your list. As it gets darker earlier and all you want to do is get comfy and watch movies on the couch, consider planning one of these activities to add some excitement to your day:

Finding the Perfect Tree

Starting November 18, head over to Sand Haven Pines in Perris to look for your own real Christmas tree. On top of cutting down your chosen tree (unless you’d like to cut it down yourself, which you are welcome to do!), they also offer services to shake your tree clean, net it, drill a hole for a tree stand, install a tree stand, add flocking, and even bring it to your car and tie it down. Plus, they have free treats and coffee, a free bouncy house for kids, and vendors to check out. Picking out your own tree is something you have to do at least once. Give it a try!

Baking Cookies

Visiting the Cookie Plug is one of our favorite holiday activities in Riverside. Their thick, decadent cookies are unforgettable! Some of their regular flavors include classic chocolate chip, fruity cereal, strawberry cheesecake, s’mores, and a couple of keto-friendly options, too. But around the holidays, they offer holiday flavors in festive colors as well as a take-home kit to make and decorate your own holiday cookies. They also deliver nationwide—a great gift idea for faraway friends!

Crafting

If you love some DIY fun, check out Ceramic and Art Studio in Norco! You could make a personalized hot cocoa mug, a plate for Santa’s cookies, or even a Christmas tree to decorate your house with. Call ahead and make an appointment to be sure there is a spot for you.

Shows and Performances

Million Dollar Quartet Christmas

On December 13 and 14, 2023, the Fox Performing Arts Center will host a musical performance of The Million Dollar Quartet Christmas . The program celebrates the most lovely time of the year with a reunion of great musicians: Jerry Lee Lewis, Carl Perkins, Elvis Presley, and Johnny Cash. The sounds of the season and the hits that made these four superstars will fill the Sun Records studio, which is now decked out with a Christmas tree, garland, and mistletoe. As the group takes everyone on a voyage through a story of Christmas past, present, and future, the audience will join in on their typical shenanigans. You won’t want to miss this action-packed evening filled with beloved characters and Christmas songs! Buy your tickets right away.

Disney On Ice

If you’re considering surprising your family with a huge pre-Christmas activity, Disney On Ice could be the ideal occasion. This three-day (December 21–23) ice-skating sensation offers five presentations, so there’s plenty of schedule flexibility. Disney characters from Frozen and Encanto will be the focus throughout this year’s show.

Trans-Siberian Orchestra’s “Ghosts of Christmas Eve”

Trans-Siberian Orchestra is bringing its holiday feast of the senses to the Toyota Arena in Ontario. Expect full-scale auditory and visual overload, along with a few heartfelt moments. Aside from the customary fireworks, smoke, lasers, and amazing lighting, fans can anticipate heartfelt narrative, rocking classical music, and family-friendly entertainment. You really should try one of the band’s lavish holiday tours if you haven’t already attended one. On December 2, there will be two performances: an afternoon show at 3:00 p.m. and an evening show at 7:30 p.m.

Opportunities to Share

When you are able to reach outside of your regular circle and give to those less fortunate, it really makes the holidays special. Giving any time or money you can warms your heart and truly makes a difference for those you are helping.

Holiday of Hope

The D’Andre D. Lampkin Foundation is organizing its fifth annual Holiday of Hope event on December 15 and 16. The event aims to spread cheer to families in need by donating new, unwrapped gifts or volunteering to receive donations or sort toys. There are several opportunities available for volunteers:

Sorting or distributing toys: Small groups of three to five people can volunteer to help sort or distribute toys.
Receiving toy drop-offs: Organizations can volunteer to receive toy drop-offs.

Volunteering is encouraged, and every day, Lampkin Foundation volunteers are finding ways to support grassroots community improvement projects, encourage young leaders, and respond to emergencies across the nation. If you’re interested in volunteering, please visit the Lampkin Foundation’s website for more information.

Volunteer with The Salvation Army

There are plenty of ways to volunteer with The Salvation Army this holiday season. The Salvation Army needs volunteers for Christmas registration, where volunteers will help families register for Christmas assistance by welcoming them, getting the required information, and entering the data. You can also volunteer as a bell ringer at a Salvation Army Red Kettle stationed outside of grocery stores and businesses valley-wide. Volunteering is a great way to make a difference in your community and help those in need experience the joy of the season.

Shopping

One of our favorite holiday activities in Riverside is gift shopping! Gift shopping can be stressful, but it’s a lot easier when you go to stores that have tons of fun, high-quality items. Head over to one of these local shops to find unique gifts for everyone on your list:

Toys

Jacks Toy Shop in Redlands is “a shop for kids and kids at heart!” They have a huge selection of toys at a wide variety of price points. So even if your kids are spending their pocket money to get their friend a gift, they’ll be able to get something awesome. There are cute hand and finger puppets, building toys, puzzles, bath and baby toys, and more. The shop has a curated, handmade feel to it, so whatever you get, you know you’re getting something unique.

Outdoors

Turner’s Outdoorsman is the perfect store for the outdoor sports enthusiast in your life. They sell supplies for hunting and shooting, archery, and fishing, and there’s clothing to go along with all of those activities. If you don’t know what to get, you can grab a gift card and let your giftee pick something out themselves.

Safe Celebration

Everyone loves a nice scented candle around the holidays, and candles are an essential part of commemorating Hanukkah. Sadly, up to 7,400 fires are started each year because of household candles, so it’s important to be aware of the best practices for using candles in your apartment. Be careful not to light candles too close to flammable items, and consider using battery-powered candles where you can. Whatever you do, never leave your holiday candles unattended!

Be aware of the fire hazard posed by Christmas trees, too. Real Christmas trees can dry out and become highly flammable, so be sure to keep yours watered. Keep candles away from the branches, and turn off all lights when you’re not at home. Stay safe and enjoy the holidays!

We hope you enjoy some fun holiday activities in Riverside with your friends and family this year. From all of us at Corona Pointe Resort Apartments in Riverside, Happy Holidays!

16 Fun Summer Activities in Riverside, CA

Fri, 01 Jul 2022 17:04:00 GMT

If you're looking for summer activities in Riverside, you've come to the right place! Here at Corona Pointe Resort and Townhomes, we love getting out into the sun and enjoying the change of pace.

Top 3 Spas and Massages in Riverside, CA

Wed, 30 Mar 2022 22:29:00 GMT

Facials, manicures, and massages aren't just self-indulgent treats: They're an important part of maintaining your mental and physical health. We have to treat our bodies well if we want them to treat us well.

Maximizing Space in Your Pet-Friendly Apartment

Tue, 21 Sep 2021 21:34:00 GMT

What is small enough to fit inside a purse but big enough to take up the whole couch? If you’re saying to yourself “My dog,” this article is for you!

Pets of every size need their space, so let’s talk about how to make the most of your pet-friendly apartment. By choosing space-maximizing furniture, keeping baskets in each room, and setting up pet storage, you and your four-legged friend can love being at home together even more than you already do.

Choose Space-Maximizing Furniture

A few simple furniture swaps or additions can do wonders for making the most of your space:

Keep Baskets in Each Room

Keep a basket in each room . When you don’t have time to tidy up as thoroughly as you would like, simply toss in toys, chews, and any other items lying around until you have time to put them away in their permanent spot.

This is a good hack for keeping all your stuff clean—not just necessarily pet stuff. But since pets are pretty talented at making a mess with their toys, this is definitely a great tip for pet owners! Keeping baskets designated for clutter helps keep the space you have actually usable.

Set Up Pet Storage

Although the baskets are a good quick fix, it’s a good idea to have permanent places for all your pet’s things. Some ideas include keeping kibble in a small trash can in a lower kitchen cabinet, putting an extra pet bed under a desk to create a little haven, and organizing all pet paperwork in a designated binder or folder.

Even the smallest pets can take up a lot of space (we’re looking at you, cute, couch-hogging pug!). So to make your pet-friendly apartment feel more spacious, try using a few of the tips in this article. And if you’re looking for a pet-friendly apartment in Riverside, consider moving to Corona Pointe Resort! We have apartments and townhomes ready to lease .

Spotlight: The Iconic Weber House in Riverside

Thu, 12 Aug 2021 23:02:00 GMT

Riverside, California, has a rich history. It’s considered the birthplace of the California citrus industry , and its famous Mission Inn “houses the oldest bell in Christendom , dating back to 1247.”

Another great piece of history is the iconic Weber House , a beautiful place to stop by on a quiet weekend afternoon. Keep reading to see why it’s so cool!

History and Design

The Weber House, located at 1510 University Avenue in Riverside, California, was built between 1932 and 1938, designed by architect Peter J. Weber to be a family residence and a showcase of his work.

Here’s some of what you’ll see when you tour the house:

The building is listed in the National Register of Historic Places and is a recognized city landmark, so you know it’s the real deal!

Tours

Have you ever been on a historical tour and found it hard to enjoy the place because there were so many people around? The great thing about tours of The Weber House is that they’re private!

Book a tour for a group of six or fewer people between 10:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m., Wednesday through Sunday. You can expect to spend about 30 to 45 minutes—plenty of time to get a good look at all the details you want to see.

It takes about 20 to 30 minutes to get there from Corona Pointe, depending on traffic, so you could sleep in until 10:00, take a tour at 11:00, and then pick up lunch from Ono Hawaiian BBQ on the way home!

Salvage Program

Another way to enjoy The Weber House is by attending a salvage sale. Most of the items for sale are for restoration projects, but there is also a selection of salvaged items you can use for “ creative interior or garden design .” Check out Old Riverside Foundation’s Facebook page to see when those sales will take place.

To step back into a simpler time, check out The Weber House! It’s a beautiful historical gem not too far away from Corona Pointe Resort . Click here to learn more about our one- and two-bedroom townhomes and apartments in Riverside, California.

Image courtesy of Old Riverside Foundation

Best Places for the Best Views in Riverside

Fri, 09 Jul 2021 23:08:00 GMT

We live in a beautiful place! And there’s no better way to enjoy its beauty than from up high. We’ve compiled three of our favorite places for the best views in Riverside. Check it out!

Sycamore Highlands Park

Sycamore Highlands is a neighborhood park with one of the best views in Riverside. There’s a basketball court, a baseball field, tables for picnics, and hiking and biking trails nearby. After enjoying your afternoon, you can hike up the hill a little to watch the sunset and look over the entire valley. It’s also a great spot to watch fireworks on Independence Day! The park is about a 20-minute drive away from Corona Pointe Resort on Fair Isle Drive in Riverside.

Box Springs Mountain

Box Springs Mountain is a hidden gem located about 35 minutes away from us on Box Springs Mountain Road in Moreno Valley. There are a few steep but short trails for challenging but fun hikes, and there is a great view of the city once you get up there. If you’re lucky, you might see a few wild donkeys!

Skyline Drive Trails

Skyline Drive Trails is great because there are lots of different trails for different ability levels, and all of them lead to a great view! There is parking and a water station, but not a ton of trees, so be sure to wear sun protection. The trailhead is located about 40 minutes away from us on Skyline Drive in Corona.

There you have it: three of the best views in Riverside. So go stretch your legs and enjoy our beautiful city from above! After you experience a few of these must-see views, we’re sure you’ll fall in love with Riverside, California. When you do, consider moving to Corona Pointe .

Corona Pointe Resort and Townhomes offers one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartments for rent in Redlands, California.

Paying Rent Online Is a Great Way to Increase Your Credit Score

Thu, 03 Jun 2021 14:43:00 GMT

Did you know you can increase your credit score by paying your rent online? A recent study by RentTrack showed that those who reported their online rental payments increased their credit score by an average of 29 points after just two months!

Paying rent online and reporting it is a great way to increase your credit score quickly. That’s because it ensures your payments can get seen by credit bureaus and are counted in your credit report. Furthermore, credit card payments specifically will result in a higher score from credit card use.

Get Payments Seen by Credit Bureaus

What actually goes into a credit score, and does paying rent online contribute? According to Experian, credit scores are determined by the use of credit cards, applications for new loans and credit, and payment history. When you pay rent online, those payments become part of your payment history. When you continually pay on time and in full, that becomes part of your score, too.

However, “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? First, you must submit your rental payment online. At Corona Pointe Resort , we offer an online rental payment system that is convenient for our residents. Then, a rent reporting agency can help you report it to the main credit bureaus to make sure it is included in your credit report.

Get a Higher Score from Credit Card Use

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!

Green Living at Corona Pointe Resort and Townhomes

Tue, 25 May 2021 16:49:00 GMT

Without realizing it, the average person wastes about 30 gallons of water a day . This wasted water can be from showering too long, flushing the toilet too often, washing dishes inefficiently, or watering the lawn unnecessarily. And many people are careless with more than just water; they often waste paper, plastic, and electricity, too.

At Corona Pointe Resort and Townhomes , we care about green living and strive to do what we can to take care of the environment. We promote green living by saving water, going without paper and plastic, and recycling.

Water

Since Riverside is prone to droughts, we use water sparingly. To start, we have drought-tolerant landscaping, meaning that we have plants that don’t require much water, and we’ve replaced some grassy areas with beautiful stone instead. We have also installed a drip irrigation system that waters plants much more efficiently than sprinklers.

We also save water with our indoor plumbing. While toilets generally use about 3.5 gallons of water every time they flush, we have low-flow toilets . These use about 20 percent less water than regular toilets and save up to 13,000 gallons of water per year.

Paper and Plastic

At Corona Pointe, we go paper-free by doing everything online—rent payments, applications, service requests, and more. This is more convenient for our residents and also eliminates the need for unnecessary paper waste. In addition, we have a water bottle filling station on the property, significantly reducing the waste from plastic water bottles.

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!

Recycling

Finally, we care about recycling. We use recycling bins in our office, and we encourage residents to recycle as well. Items you can recycle include plastic bottles and containers, empty cans, paper, and flattened cardboard. Here in Riverside, you can take your recycling to AAA Recycling . However, you cannot recycle food, liquid, plastic bags, plastic wrap, or cups with wax or plastic coating. This small change in habit can make a big 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 encourage green living. If you are looking for a new home that cares as much about green living as you do, consider Corona Pointe Resort and Townhomes!

AMC Holds Memorial Tree Planting to Honor the Lives of Three Outstanding Employees

Fri, 21 May 2021 03:49:00 GMT

On Thursday, April 22, three AMC properties held memorial tree planting services to celebrate the lives of three beloved and outstanding employees: Salvador Saenz (Serena Vista Apartments in Fountain Valley), Efren Diaz (Countrywood Apartments in Redlands), and Tuesday Beard (Lakewood Manor Apartments in Lakewood).

Salvador was an incredible individual. For 12 years, he came to work with a positive attitude and a smile on his face. He was always willing to lend a helping hand. From carrying our residents’ groceries to assisting them with their needs, Salvador lived a life of excellence and kindness.

Efren graced our company with his friendly personality, contagious smile, and strong values. His dedication to our residents shone through his actions and words. He was considered the heart and soul of every job because he had no enemies—only brothers, sisters, and friends—and he was an example to us all.

Tuesday Beard was a talented, kind, and dedicated woman loved by every member of her team at Lakewood. After she was hired as a leasing consultant in December of 2017, she quickly gained the recognition she deserved for her hard work and dedication to the community when she won Leasing Consultant of the Year for 2018.

These individuals have positively impacted the lives of so many VIPs across several AMC properties. We are honored to have known and worked alongside them. The beautiful trees we planted are reminders of the amazing legacy they left with us. May we cherish their memory always. Thank you, Salvador, Efren, and Tuesday, for your wonderful examples and kind spirits.

Looking for Apartments in Riverside? Here’s Why Corona Pointe is the Perfect Choice

Thu, 08 Apr 2021 19:49:00 GMT

Known as the city of arts and innovation, Riverside features a wide range of historic sites, museums, restaurants, and performing arts centers. Whether you’re in the mood to try a new restaurant or go exploring through the city, you’ll never run out of adventurous things to do here.

If you’re looking into living in Riverside, we can’t blame you! It’s a wonderful place to live. And when it comes to finding Riverside apartments, Corona Pointe Resort might be the perfect choice for you. Here’s why.

Healthy Living

Our apartments are well-equipped to help you live a balanced and healthy lifestyle. We provide pet-friendly housing, concierge service, gated access, and freshly brewed Starbucks coffee, all available to help you find a boost of happiness whenever you need it. We also have other amenities designed to improve your wellbeing in every area of your health. Here is a list of our most popular amenities:

On top of these amenities, our community also has a 24-hour fitness center, which is now fully open and ready for our residents to enjoy. With complimentary fitness classes and equipment available for use, you will have access to healthy living right in your backyard.

Convenient Location

Beyond the walls of our apartment community are other fun things to do that are located right next door. Compared to other Riverside apartments, Corona Pointe is located a short driving distance to downtown Riverside, Galleria at Tyler , and La Sierra Library.

While Disneyland is only 30 miles away, you don’t even need to travel that far to have a day of fun. Castle Park —an amusement park featuring unique rides, attractions, and mini golf—is just a five-minute drive away. Whether you want a day full of adventure and exploration or a day spent shopping at the mall, you have all you need right next door.

If you’re searching for Riverside apartments, Corona Pointe may be a great place to make your new home because of its health-positive amenities and convenient location. Book a tour to come see for yourself!

Our Favorite Local Restaurants in Riverside

Wed, 10 Mar 2021 19:06:00 GMT

Located in the Inland Empire metropolitan area and along the Santa Ana River, Riverside is a city known for its rich culture and history. Founded in the early 1870s, it is the birthplace of the California citrus industry. As the story goes, someone planted the first citrus tree in 1871, but it wasn’t until Eliza Tibbets received two Brazilian navel orange trees that the industry took off. Farmers noticed how the warm and sunny California climate was perfect for this type of crop and triggered a new kind of gold rush.

Fast forward, and Riverside is thriving. Not only does it boast some of the best citrus fruits in the nation, but there are dozens of diverse dining options from which to choose. Whether you’re in the mood for something salty or sweet, mild or spicy, Riverside has you covered.

Hungry in Riverside? Our team at Corona Pointe Resort and Townhomes has some stellar recommendations for you.

Monty’s Good Burger

What began as an idea amongst friends in 2017 has grown into an iconic restaurant on the coast of Southern California. With plant-based, artisanal burgers made from locally-sourced ingredients, house-made sauces, and dairy-free shakes, Monty’s Good Burger is undoubtedly worth the hype. The staff feels like close friends, welcoming you with a warm smile and happy hello. The atmosphere is retro-themed with brightly colored signs, classic bar stools, and oldies music in the background.

Stand-out items on the menu include the original Good Burger with lettuce, tomato, onion, pickle, house spread, and cheese, served on an artisan bun. Also, try the tater tots, crisped to golden tot perfection and served with your choice of dipping sauce.

All locations are currently take-out only due to COVID-19 restrictions. Hours of operation are 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Sunday through Thursday and 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. on Friday and Saturday.

Sushi OK

Sushi restaurants have become particularly popular over the last decade. Who doesn’t love fresh fish, cucumber, avocado, and crispy shrimp, rolled into rice with house-made sauces, ginger, and sesame seeds? If your mouth is watering, Sushi OK is the place to go. Located at 5228 Arlington Avenue, the restaurant takes it to the next level with consistent quality, outstanding service, and a diverse selection of menu items from which to choose. Fan-favorites include the Superman Burrito, Spicy Tiger Roll, and Yummy Yummy Roll. Prices range from $9 to $13 per entree.

The restaurant is currently open for take-out only. Hours of operation are 12 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Sunday through Thursday and 12 p.m. to 9 p.m. on Friday and Saturday.

Pier 76 Fish Grill

Last but certainly not least on our list is Pier 76 Fish Grill , which features “quality seafood coupled with genuine hospitality.” Enter the doors and discover a bright, open-air layout with industrial light features, wooden bar stools, and subway tile. The staff is lively, attentive, and eager to assist you in ordering. Choose from a fresh, locally-sourced selection of entrees such as the wild pacific salmon ($12.95), sea bass ($13.50), and parmesan-crusted whitefish ($12.95). Sides include salad, regular and sweet potato fries, Brussel sprouts, brown rice and quinoa, and more.

Located at 3555 Riverside Plaza Drive, hours of operation are 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Sunday through Saturday. As a special note, customers can now enjoy indoor and outdoor dining, as well as take-out and delivery.

If you’re interested in sushi, burgers, or the catch of the day, Riverside boasts plenty of options to satisfy your craving. Support your local restaurants, discover your favorites, and don’t be afraid to try something new.

Image courtesy of Monty’s Good Burger

Three Ways to Set Goals for the New Year

Mon, 25 Jan 2021 18:35:00 GMT

It’s 2021, and at Corona Pointe Resort, we’re looking forward to a great year. Setting goals is on a lot of people’s minds, so we wanted to share three techniques to help you be successful. Check them out!

Be Aware of Self-Talk

A lot of people don’t like setting goals because they’ve failed to reach their goal in the past, and failure just doesn’t feel good! But adjusting the way you talk to yourself can make a huge difference.

“Not completing a goal can feel like a failure, but in truth, these setbacks are a part of long-term success,” according to Healthie . “Talking through the setbacks, and creating new goals to help address these underlying issues, will allow [you] to break down [your] barriers to change and create sustainable change.”

In other words, the way you talk to yourself can actually help you achieve your goals! For example, people might have a tendency to speak to themselves like this: “I’m never going to eat enough vegetables every day. It will always be too hard to make the time to prepare them.”

Instead, positive self-talk can be instrumental for people to keep working on their goals. Try something like this: “I’m not where I want to be yet. I’ve been struggling to get in all my servings of vegetables, but I’m working on it.”

No matter what your goal is, speaking to yourself positively can help you achieve it.

Set Backwards Goals

Feeling overwhelmed when thinking about your ultimate goal? Try working backwards!

PositivePsychology.com explains the technique this way: “With Backward Goal Setting, you start with your ultimate end goal (quite similar to traditional goal setting). But instead of thinking about what the first step might be, then the second, third and so on, you start at the end goal and work backward.”

Let’s say you’d love to save up enough money to travel around Europe for a year. You could get really discombobulated thinking about all the languages you should probably gain a basic knowledge of, all the money you need to save, all the paperwork you need to take care of, all the accommodation you need to find, and more.

So instead, work backwards! Picture yourself happily staying with a nice family in Spain. Ahh, doesn’t that feel nice? What would you have to do to get there? Pack your bags. And before that, you will have to buy a plane ticket. Not only does backwards goal setting feel less stressful, but it also helps you stay focused.

Write Them Down

Setting goals helps you take ownership over your life, especially when you write those goals down.

“When you set goals, you are saying ‘This is what I want to accomplish. This is what I’m going to do,’” says Thomas R. Harris at The Exceptional Skills . “You are stating what you want and doing something about it. You are taking responsibility for yourself.”

Let’s say you have a goal to do 10,000 push-ups by the end of the year, but you break your wrist in February, and doing traditional push-ups becomes impossible. Instead of giving up, you can simply amend your goal. Go to where you wrote it down, and change it to say that half of the push-ups can be one-armed or that you will be substituting lunges until your wrist heals. When you write something down, you have the power to change it and still make progress, no matter what challenge comes your way!

This year is going to be great as we are all aware of our self-talk, try setting backwards goals, and write down the things we want to accomplish. We can’t wait to see what you achieve this year!

All You Need to know About Our Pet Policies at Corona Pointe

Tue, 22 Dec 2020 17:15:00 GMT

From keeping your bed warm at night to binge-watching Netflix by your side, it’s safe to say that pets are life’s gift to us! At Corona Pointe, we are animal lovers at heart and want all our furry pet residents to have the best living experience possible. Here is all you need to know about pets and pet policies at our community!

We Welcome Different Shapes and Sizes

From fluffy dogs to striped cats to colorful birds, we accept a variety of animals here at Corona Pointe. Here are a few important things to note:

If you have a question about a certain pet or are interested in receiving more information on our restricted dog breed list, please contact our management team , and they will be happy to assist you.

We Offer Considerate Pet Policies

To create a great living area for all residents, we uphold considerate policies. We understand that some residents do not have pets. That is why we require all pets to be leashed when they are outside. We appreciate all of our residents who follow this rule!

To keep our community clean, we require residents to pick up Fido when he or she takes care of business (if you know what we mean). Doing so keeps the grounds pretty and ensures that residents can walk on the grass without stepping in a squishy surprise.

Our Pet Amenities are Puptastic

We pride ourselves in offering top-of-the-line pet amenities for your furry friends. Our community is full of plush grass, and our dog park is the perfect place for residents to gather with their pets (while following all CDC guidelines, of course). If your miniature poodle needs to go out for a run, take him through our pet agility course in the park! If your Yorkie is thirsty, get her a drink at our pet water fountain. And if you are tired and need a break, take a seat on one of our benches and watch your pup play!

We also have hosted in-person and virtual pet contests and other events that involve our residents’ furry friends. There is nothing better than seeing cute animals dressed in fluffy tutus and superhero outfits!

You and Your Pet Will Love Our Convenient Location

Corona Pointe Resort is fortunate to be located near many pet-grooming stores and parks. Starstruck Grooming Salon and Riverside Pet Grooming are only a few miles from our community and are available if your pet is in need of some extra grooming love. Rancho Loma Park and Riverwalk Parkway are just a few short minutes away if your furry companion needs fresh air and new scenery.

If you are looking for a pet-friendly apartment, Corona Pointe Resort is the place for you! We welcome a variety of animals, uphold considerate pet policies, offer fantastic pet amenities, and are located conveniently near pet attractions. We’d love to be your next home, and we know you and your fluffy companion will love living here!

How Holiday Appliance Maintenance Can Help You Have a Stress-Free Season

Thu, 12 Nov 2020 23:19:00 GMT

Thanksgiving! The table is set, the family is watching a movie and catching up in the other room, and the turkey . . . is sitting in a cold oven? What’s happening?

Unfortunately, holiday snafus like this are all too common. In a Consumer Reports survey of over 381,000 appliances, 6 percent of respondents reported having problems with cooking elements not working. Another 5 percent reported refrigerators not cooling properly, and 11 percent reported dishwashers not cleaning properly.

Accidents will happen, but we’d much prefer they not happen during the holidays when we’d rather be building memories than dealing with a raw turkey. Being proactive by conducting holiday appliance maintenance is the best way to ensure your holidays go unspoiled. Here are three simple steps to guarantee a good time.

Conduct Deep Cleaning

Something you should be doing year-round is keeping your appliances clean. Now though, it’s time to go deep. You can start by pulling the fridge away from the wall and giving the coils a good dusting . You’ll also want to clean out your oven and scrub down the burners. And with the excess of dirty dishes coming up, your dishwasher could do with a good wash of if its own; all you need to do is run a full cycle with nothing but a single cup of white vinegar on the top rack. Cleaning will ensure there’s no buildup to clog your appliances or else catch fire.

Have a Cooking Test Run

Has it been a while since you last used your oven? Do you use one of your burners more than the others on the stovetop? You don’t want to find out at the eleventh hour that the appliance in question no longer works. Instead, 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

If in the course of the previous two steps you find that something isn’t working, act immediately. Call a professional to come and take a look. You’ll want to do this with plenty of time before the holidays are fully upon you.

At Corona Pointe Resort, we want your holidays to go off without a hitch. Our on-site management and maintenance teams are ready to help if you are having problems with your appliances. Whether the dishwasher has started clicking in an alarming way or your oven refuses to heat, simply visit Corona Pointe Resort’s Resident Portal and submit a work order. We’ll schedule a time for some holiday appliance maintenance and repair, removing the obstacles between you and a happy holiday.

The holidays are a time for making happy memories, not frantic calls for takeout food. By engaging in holiday appliance maintenance early on with these three steps, you’ll ensure a good time for you and yours. From the entire staff at Corona Pointe Resort , happy holidays!

Three Reasons Renting an Apartment Is Smarter in the Long Run

Thu, 29 Oct 2020 22:19:00 GMT

Did you know? The number of American renters grew from 99.4 million in 2010 to 108.5 million in 2018. And that number continues to grow!

No matter why those more-than 100 million people rent, the fact is that more and more people are recognizing the benefits of renting an apartment, and many don’t ever want to switch to buying! Not only is renting less expensive than buying, but it comes with fewer responsibilities and more freedom. Keep reading to learn more.

Your Upfront and Long-Term Costs Are Lower

In 2019, 82 percent of renters said renting is more affordable than owning, jumping up from 67 percent the year before. Let’s take a look at why.

First, upfront costs are lower when you’re renting an apartment. Buying a home with a mortgage typically costs you around 20 percent of the total purchase price. When you’re renting, on the other hand, you only need to pay a security deposit, usually equal to one month’s rent. And as a bonus, this deposit is returned to you when you move out (so long as you haven’t damaged the property).

Second, your costs over time are different. While homeowners need to pay property taxes and homeowner’s insurance, renters don’t. And 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.

You Aren’t Responsible for Maintenance or Repairs

Ever watched a ball crash through a window as if in slow motion? When the unexpected happens, renting an apartment gives you the comfort of knowing that you’re not responsible for making repairs . For example, at Corona Pointe Resort and Townhomes, we have knowledgeable and friendly staff who are trained and certified to make repairs. When you report that something is broken or needs attention, we are available to help you take care of it! No more tackling difficult projects alone for you.

You Can Move Whenever You’re Ready

“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.”

Renting an apartment gives you great flexibility, and we want to help you capitalize on that! That’s why we instated our loyalty bonus: If you move from Corona Pointe Resort and Townhomes to another AMC property or vice versa, we’ll give you $250 to help you have a smooth transition.

Not only are costs different between renting and buying, but renters also have less responsibility and more freedom. No wonder so many people are choosing to rent. At Corona Pointe Resort and Townhomes, we want to make coming home the best part of your day. Stop by and see why renting an apartment in Riverside might be the best choice for you.

How to Be a Good Friend

Thu, 03 Sep 2020 15:13:00 GMT

For many of us, most of our childhood friends were the kids we went to school with and saw every day. But as adults, we don’t have that same luxury of seeing our friends that often, and keeping up friendships can be really hard! Healthy relationships are so important, so we’ve put together four tips on how to be a good friend, no matter how seldom you get to see your closest buddies.

Be Genuinely Interested in Them

Dale Carnegie, author of How to Win Friends and Influence People , said , “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.” Next time you’re speaking with a friend, pay attention to see how often you’re just waiting for your turn to talk rather than really listening to them.

And when your friends tell you good news, be genuinely happy for them! Listening and being happy for your friends’ successes help to build a solid relationship based on mutual appreciation.

Make a Point to Work through Conflict

Isn’t it funny that the people we care most about are often the people with whom we have the worst conflicts? Don’t panic when you get into a tiff with a friend; it’s a normal part of any close relationship, and there are things you can do to solve it. Here are a couple of conflict resolution tips :

Vocalize Your Feelings

Being honest and vulnerable can be difficult, but it’s a crucial part of strong friendships. When you are going through something difficult, 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. Talking about the stuff that really matters helps you 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.”

We talked about how speaking with your friends about your feelings is a great part of friendship, but be careful not to rely on each other too much. You’re not each others’ therapist, Uber driver, or interior designer. If a friend is volunteering to help you, be sure to check in with them and make sure they aren’t burned out. And speak up if you feel your boundaries are being overstepped. When your friendship has good boundaries, you’re both able to feel more respected and comfortable around each other.

It can be hard to keep up friendships when you and your pals don’t get to see each other very often. To keep your friendships strong, be genuinely interested in them, work through conflict, share your feelings, and respect boundaries. Try implementing one of these tips today to make your important friendships even better!

How to Increase Your Credit Score by Paying Rent Online

Fri, 07 Aug 2020 11:57:00 GMT

We have some great news for you: You can boost your credit score by paying rent online! As you pay your rent on time every month, credit bureaus see how trustworthy you are and often give your score a boost. One study by TransUnion found that paying rent online improved renters’ scores by as much as 16 points within six months, with the greatest increase happening for those who started with a credit score below 620.

When you pay rent online with AMC, your payments get reported to credit bureaus, it checks the boxes for a responsible borrower, and it can help you boost your score even more when combined with credit card payments.

Getting Reports to the Credit Bureaus

“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.”

Not all apartment companies report rent payments to credit bureaus, but at Corona Pointe Resort and Townhomes, we do! We can’t report those payments, though, unless the transactions are completed online. We send a record of your on-time rental payments to the credit bureaus that take them, and that contributes to your good credit.

In order to opt in for the credit reporting, follow these steps:

Checking the Boxes for a Responsible Borrower

What goes into a credit score? And does paying rent online count for any of it? For one example, Experian determines credit scores through your use of credit cards, payment history, and applications for new loans and credit. When you pay rent online, those payments become part of your payment history, and as you keep paying on time and online, your history gets longer and stronger.

And for an Even Higher Score . . .

. . . consider paying your rent with a credit card!

LaToya Irby, a credit expert for The Balance, suggests that you “open a credit card and use it to pay your rent . . . then pay your credit card balance in full each month. The timely credit card payments will help boost your credit score.” Whether or not you pay with a credit card is up to you, but it can be a nice boost to your credit score on top of the benefits of paying your rent online.

Ready to boost your credit score? Next time rent comes due, consider paying rent online by heading to the resident portal ! We’ll report your payments to credit bureaus, and after a while, you might just see your score increase. And if you choose to pay with a credit card, you may increase your score even more.

Four Benefits of Surrounding Yourself with Positive Friends

Thu, 23 Jul 2020 02:19:00 GMT

This year has brought an immense amount of change to our lives due to the pandemic and other prominent world events. If you told us that you’re feeling more negative lately, we’d say, “You’re only human.” Why? Because research shows that humans are “hardwired” for negativity .

But, don’t let that get you down! Research also supports the idea that the people around you can greatly influence your emotions . So, if less negativity is what you’re after, surround yourself with positive friends! Here are some of the benefits that could come from all this positivity:

Better Stress Management

According to one literature review, “ positive thinking increases the ability to deal with stressors effectively .” So, if your friends are bringing more positivity into your life, it’s safe to say that they are also helping you to better cope with life’s stressors!

Improved Physical Health

According to psychologist Shilagh Mirgain, positivity can benefit your physical health . She explains, “Having strong, positive social support is one of the most important factors in predicting the physical health and well-being in people of all ages.” In sum, pick positive friends; your health will thank you!

More Success

Can positivity really affect your life’s success? It’s likely! According to Art Markman, PhD, “Overall, when people are happy, they put in more effort to create a better future for themselves than when they are not happy.” So think positively, put in the effort, and you’ll be poised to see additional success. Having positive friends by your side will only reinforce your positivity on this journey. Quality friendships may even strengthen your resilience , which could lead to even greater success!

More Friends

American political scientist Robert D. Putnam said, “ Positive people have more friends which is a key factor of happiness and longevity.” If positive friends can make you more positive, and as a result, you gain more friends, then you’ll likely be able to pass your positivity onto new friends and keep this positivity rolling. So, pay it forward with positivity, and see how it can benefit your life and the lives of those around you!

Choose your friends wisely; their display of positivity—or lack thereof—could have a very significant impact on you. Emotions are somewhat contagious, and by choosing positive people in your life, you could greatly benefit! So enjoy your positive friends, along with any beneficial consequences of better stress management, improved physical health, more success, and more friends—especially at Corona Pointe !

How to Participate in Local Beach and Park Cleanups This July

Thu, 09 Jul 2020 18:19:00 GMT

Beach season is here, and you might be wondering, “When is there going to be a beach cleanup day I can join?” Every year, AMC staff, residents, friends, and family have a big beach cleanup day. We’re always inspired by the Ocean Conservancy’s annual cleanup in September. Over 30 years, this effort has collected 300 million pounds of trash!

Because we can’t get together physically due to COVID-19 restrictions, we’re encouraging our residents to have their own beach or park cleanup with immediate family and roommates on July 25. Together, every small effort adds up to big results! Read on to learn the benefits of a cleanup, the supplies you’ll need, and the safety measures to keep in mind.

Cleanups Benefit More Than Just the Beach or Park

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

Beach and park cleanups leave a cleaner and safer environment for wildlife. It also encourages tourists to come visit. “In southern California, researchers calculated that in Orange County alone [cleaner beaches] could translate into $46 million in just one summer,” said Laura Parker at National Geographic .

Cleanups get you out in the fresh air and can be quite a workout. Walking back and forth for an hour or more, bending to pick up trash, and hauling away trash bags are all good exercise. Wear a fitness tracker to see what a workout it really is!

You may think that picking up trash at your favorite beach for an hour won’t make much difference, but it really will. Even if you and your group only pick up five pounds of trash, that’s five pounds of trash that won’t be swept into the ocean, and that’s something to be proud of. So head to nearby Rancho Loma Park or take a trip to Newport Beach Municipal Beach to make the world a little bit more beautiful.

Make Sure You Bring These Supplies

Whether July 25 works for you or you decide another day is best, be sure you bring supplies like these with you:

Follow Safety Guidelines

If you’d like to invite extended family and friends to join your cleanup, be sure to follow 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.” Remember also to wear your mask when it’s not feasible to maintain “a physical distance of 6 feet from persons who are not members of the same household or residence is not feasible.”

If your neighbors ask you, “When is beach cleanup day?” tell them it’s July 25 or any day during July, and we’re inviting people to clean up local parks, too! Take photos, tag Corona Pointe Resort, and use the hashtags #AMCcleanup and #livehappy. We can’t wait!

Why Try Natural Sunscreens?

Tue, 30 Jun 2020 17:09:00 GMT

If you have plans to visit Little Corona del Mar Beach , stroll around Doty Trust Park , or sunbathe on your patio, sunscreen is a must. But there are so many sunscreen options out there. How can you know which one is best for you and your family?

Some sunscreens are made of artificial ingredients, while others are made from natural ingredients. And just as our bodies like natural ingredients in our food, so too does our skin like natural sunbathing lotions. Here are three reasons to try the natural kind of sunscreen this summer.

It’s gentle on sensitive skin.

Have you ever heard of photoallergic reactions? According to the American College of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology , synthetic chemicals in many sunscreens can irritate your skin and cause an allergic reaction of inflammation of the skin. Instead of using these synthetic chemicals, natural sunscreen uses titanium dioxide or zinc oxide to block the sun’s harmful rays. These mineral ingredients are less irritating on the skin than synthetic chemicals.

It protects against both types of UV rays.

Did you know that there are two types of UV rays? UVB rays are the ones that cause sunburns. But UVA rays cause skin cancer, aging, and wrinkles by penetrating deep into your skin. Unfortunately, many sunscreens only protect against UVB rays. While chemical sunscreen absorbs UV rays, which protects you from UVB only, natural sunscreen (also known as physical sunscreen) reflects the rays from your skin, which protects you from UVB and UVA. If you care about preventing skin cancer and avoiding sunburns, natural sunscreen might be the right choice for you.

It’s environmentally friendly.

One of the problems with chemical sunscreens is that they can hurt the environment when they enter the ocean. But mineral-based, natural sunscreens don’t have ingredients that damage reefs and hurt marine life. How can you know which sunscreens are safe? Here are some we like . All of these options are natural, safe alternatives to chemical sunscreens.

This summer, make the switch to natural sunscreen. Physical sunscreens are gentle on sensitive skin, guard against both types of UV rays, and are friendly to the environment. Everything you could want in sunscreen!

3 Reasons Why Meditation Should Be Included in Your Everyday Routine

Wed, 17 Jun 2020 03:46:00 GMT

An estimated 200 to 500 million people across the world practice meditation, and it might just be time to join them! With all the challenges that life can throw at us, it can be hard to focus, and we can get stressed and feel down. That’s where meditation can be an amazing tool. It has been shown to improve cognition, stabilize stress, and increase life satisfaction.

Improves Memory

Meditation can improve your memory. It’s all about being in the present and taking the time to focus on what’s happening right now. A 2019 study found that practicing mindfulness meditation improves short-term memory and also increases the size of the hippocampus, the memory center of the brain.

“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 emergencies to planning a friend’s birthday party and everything in between, stressful events can really take their toll. Meditation can help!

“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

Increased life satisfaction through meditation? Sign us up! According to one study on mindfulness meditation (MM), “MM training has a rapid and measurable impact on subjective well-being.” This was the case even in participants that used a mindfulness-based smartphone app for a short time.

There are lots of ways to help yourself gain the benefits of meditation, from breathing exercises to simply focusing on the here and now. You can also visit yoga studios, many of which offer guided meditations. Check out places like Reveille on Main Street Riverside for their meditation sessions.

For improved memory, stabilized stress, and increased life satisfaction, start a habit of meditating today!

4 Reasons Why You Should Wear Sunscreen Daily

Fri, 29 May 2020 21:56:00 GMT

Summer is nearly here, and with that usually comes plenty of fun outdoor activities. If you’re among the 90 percent of US adults who don’t wear sunscreen daily , here are four reasons why you should adopt this healthy habit going forward:

1. It protects you even on cloudy days.

The sun might not seem like much of a threat on cloudy days, but this assumption could be harmful. According to the FDA , “Even under cloud cover it is possible to damage your skin and eyes, and cause long-term damage.”

2. It protects you from heat exhaustion.

No one enjoys a sunburn, but did you know that sunburns can contribute to even more serious problems, like heat exhaustion, which can develop into heatstroke? Thankfully, heat exhaustion is completely preventable.

The Mayo Clinic recommends “[wearing] a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses and [using] a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15. Apply sunscreen generously, and reapply every two hours — or more often if you’re swimming or sweating.”

3. It protects your skin from premature aging.

Did you know that 90 percent of skin aging is directly related to sun exposure ? Keep your skin healthy and looking great by protecting it daily with sunscreen. Let the majority of those wrinkles instead develop as smile lines from all the happy years you’ve lived!

4. It decreases your risk of developing cancer.

The ultraviolet (UV) rays that come with sun exposure can damage the DNA in our cells . This damage can contribute to skin cancer development. As skin cancer is the most preventable type of cancer , making sunscreen part of your daily skin regimen is essential.

Using sunscreen daily is important to protect your skin, even on cloudy days, from sunburn (and heat exhaustion), premature aging, and additional risks of cancer. Just a thin layer can do so much! Don’t forget the other measures that can give you added protection, like a hat, sunglasses, UPF clothing , and plenty of shade.

Four Helpful Cleaning Tips for Pet Owners

Wed, 13 May 2020 16:26:00 GMT

Keeping your apartment clean is one of the hardest challenges when owning a pet. If you’re a dog or cat owner, you know what I’m talking about. It’s easy to feel like your apartment has been carpeted by animal dander and hair. Here are four helpful hints to keep your place from becoming a fur kingdom.

Get the Brush Out Regularly

Hair is the biggest challenge to maintaining cleanliness for nearly all pet owners. While there are some breeds of dog and cat that don’t shed, most tend to shed—and some shed a lot . It is important to keep up a regular cleaning and grooming schedule, not only for the comfort and health of your animal but also to lessen the amount of dander and hair around your apartment. Dedicating times a couple of days a week can make a huge difference.

Get out the White Vinegar

One of the best apartment remedies for removing those awful scents and even stains on your carpet is white vinegar. It’s cheap and easy to use: just pour some in a spray bottle and go to town on those stains. Be careful not to let it soak the stain too much, though. Then, let it dry. You’ll be shocked at how well the vinegar picks up those pesky smells!

Use a Lint Roller

While it is important to have a vacuum on-hand, a lint roller is a cheap, quick way to pick up all that fur for those moments of quick cleaning turnaround—like when you have guests show up on your doorstep unexpectedly, or you want to make the couch in the background of your virtual conference call look a little cleaner. Lint rollers are a must if you own a pet, hands down, no exceptions.

Get out the Baking Soda for Pet Beds

When choosing a bed for your pet at the store, make sure that it comes with machine-washable removable covers. Any bed that doesn’t is going to have to be tossed in the trash within a few months or so. Having this removable cover makes it so much easier to clean! You can use a mild soap or normal detergent or wash your pet beds, but by adding a cup of baking soda to the wash mix, you can really up the ante. Just like white vinegar, baking soda is an amazing tool for neutralizing odors. It’s also a good antibacterial agent.

We love our pets, and we know you love yours as well—even if they smell and shed. With these four tips, you can keep your frustration down and your apartment clean.

Top 4 Tips for Remote Work Success

Mon, 27 Apr 2020 22:59:00 GMT

With all the shelter-in-place orders due to the coronavirus , remote work is the new norm for many people. If you weren’t part of the remote-worker pool prior to the pandemic (about 3.4 percent of US workers), you might be overhauling your working regimen now. Here are the top four tips to help you work from home more effectively:

Tip #1: Stick to Core Work Hours (and Schedule Breaks)

When you work from home, it can be tempting to either sleep in and skimp on your duties or turn into a workaholic with no boundaries. Sticking to your regular work hours helps you get everything done while also keeping a healthy work–life balance—especially when you schedule in breaks.

Also, expect and embrace distraction during your day. Instead of feeling bad about the times you accidentally spend 20 minutes scrolling through the Instagram Explore tab, schedule an off-the-clock break to do just that. Dedicated and intentional breaks are known to improve productivity .

Tip #2: Establish a Dedicated Office Space

Even if you don’t have an official office in your apartment, you can still create a dedicated office space to boost your productivity. It can be at the kitchen table or in a nook in the living room—whatever works best. Just make sure it’s comfortable, organized, and conducive to your type of work.

Now that you’ve figured out what works for you, make sure that the arrangement also works for others who share the space. Communicate to them the times you need to work, and particularly when quiet is needed. For example, if you have an important video call coming up, treat it like a real appointment and let everyone know that you need to be left alone in your office space for that chunk of time. (Unless you want to recreate the hilarious moment when this little girl boogied into her dad’s BBC interview .)

Tip #3: Be Overly Kind to Your Coworkers

Have you ever received a text from someone that sounded uncharacteristically curt? With remote work, there’s obviously more written communication going on. And with that, there’s more room for intentions being misunderstood. Now is the time to add in additional friendly emojis and happy exclamation points—show your coworkers your positive intentions. Also, try to give them the benefit of the doubt if their texts, emails, and messages seem harsher than their usual in-person communication. There’s a learning curve with showing the right intent in written form.

Tip #4: Prep All Food Prior to the Workday

When you work from home, it can be tempting to prep each meal on demand. Handling meals in that way can really cut into a break’s intended purpose: to relax and recharge. Respect your breaks and take time to prepare meals and snacks in advance. It will make your day a lot less stressful!

Adjusting to remote working conditions can be challenging. But, scheduling your day, creating a dedicated space to work in, being overly kind to your coworkers, and meal prepping in advance can help you conquer your day. And, dodge many of the roadblocks you may otherwise run into.

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

Thu, 26 Mar 2020 21:05:00 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 19:21:00 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 03:00:00 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.