College Apartment Study Zone Tips

Designing the right study space for your college apartment

The new school year is just around the corner. To keep you from getting stressed out about all the homework and tests, its important to have a place at your college apartment where you can get all your work done without distractions. We put together some tips to help put your college apartment study zone together so that you can start the year off on the right foot.

Choose the space

When you are setting up your study zone, you want to pick a spot that will have minimal distractions, provides sufficient lighting, and isn’t an area that is used for social activities. If you are sharing an apartment with a roommate, consider creating your study area in your bedroom near a window so that you get natural light during the day.

Pick Furniture

When selecting furniture, think about what will work best for you. A desk doesn’t work for everyone, so if a bean bag chair, hammock, or exercise ball is your thing, go for it. Since you will be studying for long hours, find something to sit on that is comfortable but not so comfortable that you could fall asleep in it.

Lighting is Important

Some nights you might be up late into the night, so it will be important to have a lamp that will provide ample light. During the day, try to use as much natural light as possible as it could boost your mood.

Keep Your Space Organized

To stay focused and in the zone, you will want to keep your space organized and clean to keep your stress levels at a minimum. If there is clutter everywhere, your mind may start wandering elsewhere. Consider using floating shelves, organization trays, or drawers to organize your books, utensils, and assignments. Use a calendar or planner so that you can plan when you will start and finish your upcoming assignment. Keep highlighters, pencils, and pens within an arm’s reach.

Get Rid of Distractions

It’s fun to hang pictures of friends and family around your apartment but consider keeping them away from your study area as they could cause you to start reminiscing and losing your focus. Consider hanging a motivational quote or calendar instead. Find a place where you can keep your phone that is out of sight. If your phone is right next to you, it will be too tempting to scroll through Instagram or check that text about last Friday night.

Personalize your Area

Ultimately, you should set your space up so that it works for you. Make your space a place where you feel calm and don’t get stressed about returning to. Add touches that make it an inviting area and help you feel your best.

Fun tip: According to a Huffington Post article, orange can help you concentrate. The color helps you focus, concentrate, and organize which makes it the perfect pop of color for your study space.

Looking for an apartment that is close to campus? Take a look out our apartments in Moorhead, Fargo/West Fargo, Jamestown, Mandan, Minot, Watford City, & Williston.

COMMUNITY SPOTLIGHT: Stonemill Pond

Posted on 07.12.1809.09.19 by abenson

COMMUNITY SPOTLIGHT: Stonemill Pond

Located in a growing area of Moorhead, MN, the Stonemill Community proves to be one of a kind. There is something for everyone from college students to retirees. The community offers 3 different apartment options, townhomes, twin homes, and a clubhouse at the center of it all. Designed to be truly lifestyle driven, the community offers many onsite amenities and is in a convenient location in Moorhead. Nearby is the Stonemill Trail Park which has a basketball court, gazebo, field space, and a playground. Within waking distance of the community is the local Hornbacher’s grocery store along with great restaurants, a fitness center, and Caribou Coffee.

Stonemill Clubhouse

The Stonemill Clubhouse is where the community comes together. It offers an onsite fitness center, community room that is great for hosting events and gathering with neighbors to chat over coffee, a leasing office, and a patio and grill that is perfect for a summer barbecue. The clubhouse has held multiple events for residents to attend, which include: Pumpkin Painting, Ornament Decorating, and a Community Picnic.

Stonemill Pond Apartments

Stonemill Pond Apartments consists of 3 apartment buildings that offer studio, 1, 2, and 3-bedroom apartments. Each open floor plan apartment offers high ceilings, a private patio or balcony, large walk-in closets, and high efficiency appliances. In the 900 building, there is an onsite fitness center that the community is welcome to use.

Stonemill Villas Apartments

Stonemill Villas are a hybrid of an apartment and a townhome as you get your own private entrance. The villas offer 1, 2, and 3-bedroom floor plans that offer state of the art soundproofing, stainless steel high efficiency appliances, and a private patio and balcony. These apartments are the perfect option for pet owners since you have your own private entrance.

Signature Apartments at Stonemill Pond

The newest addition to the community is the Signature Apartments. This was the final addition and offers upscale amenities including granite countertops, central air conditioning, stainless steel appliances, laminate hardwood floors in the kitchen and living areas, and a private walk out patio or balcony. The hallways are adorned with artwork and one side overlooks the entire community while the other overlooks the park.

Stonemill Townhomes & Twin Homes

Stonemills townhomes offer 3 bedrooms and 3 bathrooms while the twin homes offer 3 bedrooms and 2.5 bathrooms. Both offer a gas fireplace in the living area and an island kitchen with stainless steel appliances, a pantry, and granite countertops. The townhomes and twin homes have central air conditioning, extra storage space, and a patio off the dining area. These home are pet friendly and are a great option for pet owners since each has a walkout patio making it easy to bring your pet outside when necessary.

Bike Trails Near Our Communities

Posted on 07.09.1810.22.19 by abenson

Bike Trails Near Our Communities

It’s the perfect time of year to get outside and enjoy the sunshine — and what better way to do it than to go on a bike ride? All the cities our communities are in offer great multi-use paths that are perfect for biking. So grab a bike, a helmet , and a friend (or go solo!) and check out one of the many great trails near you.

Fargo-Moorhead-West Fargo Bike Trails

The Fargo-Moorhead-West Fargo area offers many bike paths that can be accessed from a majority of our communities. Biking along the Red River and Sheyenne River is the best way to escape the hustle and bustle of the city. If mountain biking is your preference or if you want to try something new, then be sure to check out Iwen Park, MB Johnson Park, or Gooseberry for a fun adventure! See the map.

Mandan Bike Trails

All our Mandan communities have quick and easy access to the Old Red Trail as well as the Lewis and Clark Trail. Other trails to check out include the Sunset Park Trail and the Missouri Valley Millennium Legacy Trail. See the map.

Minot Bike Trails

Minot has trails across the city that will bring you to various parks and points of interest including trails along the river. For mountain biking, check out the Bison Plant Trail, which is 3.1 miles long and has a nice stretch along the Souris River. See the map.

Jamestown Bike Trails

Whatever length of trail you are looking for, Jamestown offers something for you with anything for ¼ mile to 10 miles or more. See the complete list.

Williston Bike Trails

The city of Williston offers trails across the city with plans to add more. Our Williston communities have easy access to the existing trails. See the map.

Watford City Bike Trails

Watford City offers a multiuse path that is 2.4 miles long that starts behind the Children’s Play Park on Main Street at Centennial Park. The area also has several mountain biking options including the Bennet Creek Trail, Magpie Trail, and the Long X Loop. No matter where you live, there are trails near you. Be sure to follow the rules of the road and wear a helmet. Do you have a favorite biking trail? Share it with us by visiting our Facebook page.

Summer Bucket List

Posted on 06.20.1810.22.19 by abenson

Summer Bucket List

Don’t let your summer be a bummer. Make it an unforgettable one by filling it with adventure, sunshine, and relaxation. No matter what you are interested in, there is sure to be something on our bucket list that will make your summer the best one yet!

Watch the sunset
Try a new flavor of ice cream
Go on a hike
Have a yard sale
Make S’ Mores
Go down a water slide
Relax on your patio, balcony, or deck
Attend a baseball game
Make a splash at the neighborhood pool
Go on a long bike ride
Make homemade popsicles
Fly a kite
Relax in a hammock
Read a book
Watch fireworks
Buy something at a farmer’s market
Catch fireflies
Go on a road trip
Plant flowers
Go to a museum
Make homemade lemonade
Try a new food
Tube down a river
Go to an outdoor concert or play
Find a rainbow
Try a Pinterest craft
Build a sand castle
Have a picnic
Skip rocks
Host an outdoor dinner
Find an ice cream truck
Make a new friend
Go on a boat ride
Eat at a food truck
Kayak or canoe around a lake or down a river
Make a slip-n-slide
Visit a national or state park
Play miniature golf
Go camping
Learn a new recipe
Go berry picking
Spend an entire day outside

We hope you enjoy the warm weather and long days! Don’t forget to pack your sunscreen!

8 Tips for Living with a Dog in an Apartment

Posted on 06.14.1809.09.19 by abenson

8 Tips for Living with a Dog in an Apartment

Dogs bring joy and happiness to our lives, but when it comes to living in an apartment with them, things can get tricky. So, to make it easier on yourself and to keep your dog happy and healthy, follow some of these tips for living with a dog in an apartment.

1. Talk with your property management company

Most companies have rules that you need to follow when it comes to living with pets in your rental home. There are breed restrictions, weight limits, and fees that you should be aware of before deciding to live in an apartment with your pet.

2. Choose the right breed

Not all dogs are well suited to living in an apartment. While all dogs are fun and cute, some need more space to play or are more apt to bark. You don’t want your dog going stir crazy and destroying your entire apartment and you don’t want one that barks at every person that walks down the hallway. When choosing a pet, consider one that has a mellow and friendly personality.

3. Pay attention to your dog

To keep your dog from going stir crazy or destroying your apartment, pay attention to them. Give them the love they deserve. Bring them to one of the local dog parks or take them on daily walks to help them burn some energy.

4. Choose the apartment that fits your pet

If you already have a pet and are looking for a new home, choose an apartment that is more suitable to your animal. Consider a first floor apartment to make it easier for you to let your pet out for bathroom breaks and so that your pet doesn’t disturb those below you.

5. Train your pet

Training your dog is essential. If your dog is rambunctious and will destroy your apartment while you are away, consider crate training them. If you are having problems with when your dog needs to go to the bathroom, consider putting them on a bathroom schedule. If you pet ends up destroying apartment, it will result in hefty fees that you will be required to pay upon moving out.

6. Be aware of your neighbors

Be respectful and pick up after your dog right after they make a mess in common areas. Not everyone loves dogs, so keep your pet on a leash while in common areas. It is important to remember that this is your neighbor’s home as well.

7. Consider doggy daycare

If your dog is one that will bark while you are away at work or school, consider bringing them to a doggy daycare during the week. It will allow your pet to play and socialize with other dogs while also keeping your neighbors happy.

8. Keep your pet’s health up to date

Be sure your pet is up to date on all vaccines. If something happens that your dog bites someone, you will be required to show proof of vaccination. Overall, make sure you give your pet all the love they deserve! Train them, take care of them, and pay attention to them. Having a pet requires a little bit more planning, but if you follow some of these easy tips for living with a dog in an apartment, your pet can keep bringing joy and smiles to your life!