You’ve been thinking about how great your mid-century modern coffee table is going to look in your new apartment since you saw the rental listing.

But here’s a hot tip before you go charging in with all your belongings: Your new apartment will never be easier to clean than when you’re holding the keys for the first time. Take advantage of the empty space and follow this easy cleaning checklist to make your place a tidy home for youself—and all your beloved stuff.

1. Start from the top.

When it comes to giving your new home a deep scrub, it’s best to clean each room from the top down. Because, gravity. Start by dusting the ceiling fan, ceiling corners, and overhead lights. (Globe-shaped light figures are notorious for collecting dust, so be sure to give them a good clean.) Then start working your way down—walls, baseboards, and finally, the floors.

2. Work toward the door.

Here’s another way to order your cleaning in a room: Start at the farthest point from the entryway. This is especially important when it comes to floors. You don’t want to trod over freshly-vacuumed carpet in your dusty house-cleaning shoes!

3. Deep clean the closets.

Once the closets are full of your odds and ends, it’s unlikely you’ll ever take them all back out to clean in there. Dust out the corners, and consider lining shelves with vinyl or decorative paper (just be sure it isn’t permanent). Shelf lining looks good, is easy to clean, and covers up mystery marks and gross stains left by previous tenants. It’s a win-win-win.

4. Replace the toilet seat.

You’re bringing your own recliner and couch, and those aren’t even as hard to keep clean. You’ll spend a lot of time sitting on your apartment’s toilet, and it’s arguably the most important seat in the house. Do yourself (and your guests) a favor by giving your toilet a fresh start.

5. Disinfect the bathtub.

You’re much more likely to enjoy a soak in the tub after you’ve disinfected away all trace of the last person who soaked there. For an easy cleaning hack, use dish soap and a sponge to wipe down the bathtub—though you may need to enlist a more convensional cleaner to fight tougher stains. Prefer a natural method? Equal parts baking soda, borax, and kosher salt make a great cleaning scrub without any impossible-to-pronounce chemicals.

6. Clean your appliances.

Yes, even your dishwasher needs help getting clean. Start by running a cycle with only a cup of white vinegar in the top rack—using the hot water setting if your dishwasher has one. Afterwards, sprinkle a cup of baking soda on the bottom rack and run a second hot cycle.

Disinfect the microwave (inside and out), then hit the fridge. Remove all the shelves you can, and wipe them down—you can even let them soak in the sink or bathtub. A solution of vinegar and water works great as a food-safe, all-purpose cleaner.

Finally, the oven. If they fit in your dishwasher, toss the buttons, racks, and drip pans in for a deep clean. If the racks are caked with black grime, you can soak them overnight in a sealed bag of ammonia. And don’t forget about degreasing the oven hood!

7. Make the floors shine.

Your floor is going to get gross enough under your own feet. You’ll definitely want to clean away the last tenant’s footprints. Steam mops are a quick and easy way to clean hardwoods, laminate, and tile. If you’re using a regular mop on hardwoods, make sure that it’s damp rather than sopping, and use a cleaner that works with the floor’s finish.

For carpeted areas, you can usually rent carpet cleaners from grocery and hardware stores—or you can call in the professionals if it’s a serious job. Depending on your lease agreement and the state of the carpet, you may even be able to talk to your landlord about a reimbursement.

8. Kill all the germs.

Every surface you touch in your new apartment—from the thermostat to the light switch—has been touched thousands of times by the previous tenants. Blast your favorite playlist and spend time disinfecting everything you touch on a regular basis. This includes countertops, knobs, dials, buttons, locks, and anything with a handle.

9. Don’t forget the cabinets.

You’re going to eat off of those plates. Don’t plunk them into the cabinets until you’d eat off their surfaces, too. Wipe them down, scrub away anything suspicious with baking soda and water, and add a liner for good measure.

10. Show your baseboards some respect.

Baseboards are often neglected on monthly cleaning checklists, but if you only do it once, move-in is the time. Kitchens and entryways get hit especially hard by dust and grime, so do the baseboards in these rooms first. Anything from an all-purpose cleaner to baby wipes can make a big difference.

Originally published February 23, 2016; updated January 18, 2018.

What are your favorite home-cleaning methods? Share them in the comments below!

If you’re considering buying a fixer, or a gorgeous one-story home that would be even better with two stories, have fun with the dreaming and designing, but don’t forget the bigger picture in the neighborhood. After all, there’s no point in perfecting your dream house if you have to live surrounded by people who can’t stand you after putting up with months of noisy construction. In the end, the neighborhood vibe may be the most important feature of your new home.

Good news there: A few small gestures of goodwill and cooperation can be very effective in smoothing things over during construction and beyond. Local zoning laws will vary, but these diplomatic gestures are universal.

Do you have tips on keeping the peace with neighbors during construction? Share in the comments!

Renting is the life … you’re not tied down, and there are no repairs to worry about, right? Well, sort of. While your landlord is expected to handle many fixes, there are others that are on you.

Your lease will often define exactly when and how you should make any repairs. When in doubt, pull out the paperwork. The general rule of thumb is that renters are responsible for repairing any damage that they cause themselves. So if you want to remain on peaceful terms with your landlord, don’t be that renter who calls for help changing a lightbulb.

8 Maintenance Issues Renters Are Responsible For

1. Flea extermination—even if you pay a pet fee

Your pet fee isn’t pet maintenance insurance. Your landlord is responsible for eliminating bugs like roaches and ants, but “not a problem you brought with you,” says Mindy Jensen, community manager and podcast coordinator at Bigger Pockets. Keep anti-flea products in your rental (and on your dog!) to take care of this problem.

2. Carpet stains or floor scratches beyond normal wear and tear

Your landlord expects to repair or replace floors every few years because of regular, everyday use. But if your definition of “everyday use” includes wearing cleats on the carpet and bowling in the kitchen, you should be prepared to fix the floors yourself. Don’t ask your landlord to clean stains from spills, your pets, bleach, or nail polish.

3. Damage to walls or ceilings

It’s one thing to request a paint job after you’ve lived in a place for several years. But landlords don’t have to repair holes you made or repaint to eliminate the cigarette smell after your roommate with a pack-a-day habit moves out. And for major repairs, you should both pay for the work and fess up. Tell your landlord what happened and explain that you’ll rectify the situation with professionals.

4. Broken appliances you’ve misused

If you tend to close the dishwasher with your foot, sooner or later it’s going to break. And your landlord won’t be keen to replace it. “Don’t expect the landlord to repair appliances you’ve misused,” Jensen says. Misuse also includes things like using the wrong type of detergent in a front-loading washer and putting chicken bones or peach pits into the garbage disposal.

5. Locks or windows you broke when you’d lost your keys

It’s true that the law requires your landlord to maintain security by replacing broken locks or windows. But if you’re the one who breaks ’em, you’ll be the one paying for ’em. “The landlord is not responsible for your losing or forgetting your keys,” says Jensen. So next time you get locked out, take the time to call a locksmith or building maintenance, or leave a spare key with a trusted friend or neighbor.

6. Clogged drains

Some clogs are unavoidable or caused by defective plumbing. But when you’ve used your bathtub as a haircut staging area or have gotten overzealous with the toilet paper, that clog’s yours to solve.

To avoid trouble, never use your toilet to toss out kitty’s litter, paper towels, or dental floss. And if you live with kids or invite them over, keep the lid down—you never know what they’ll throw in there. Learn how to use a plunger and liquid drain cleaner, and keep both handy. Otherwise, be prepared to pay a pricey plumber’s bill.

7. A furnace that’s on the fritz because you didn’t change the filters

A basic filter costs less than $10. Changing it out a few times a year is far cheaper and easier than insisting your landlord send over an HVAC pro to tune up or fix your system. If a pro comes over to fix a failed furnace or air conditioner and finds an ancient, clogged filter, they’re going to know right away what caused the problem. Avoid that disaster by doing routine removable filter maintenance yourself.

8. Accidental water damage

Landlords are definitely responsible for repairing flood damage after a major rain storm or a random pipe failure. But don’t expect the landlord to fix the water damage when you’ve left the bathtub running, used the wrong soap in the dishwasher, or repeatedly flushed the clogged toilet till it overflowed. When it comes to flooding, the culprit is typically pretty clear: If it wasn’t Mother Nature, it was probably you.

Originally published on October 4, 2017; updated January 10, 2018. 

Premium homes are making up a larger share of the real estate market in 2017. To understand what luxury truly means these days, Trulia explored the category on our site. Along with spectacular views, privacy, and lush acreage, what more do homes like this have to offer?

We combed through our listings to find some of the most extravagant features in real estate. Check out some lavish properties and the features that make them super luxurious:

To find out more about the Luxury Real Estate market, check out Trulia’s report When It Comes to Homes, $5 Million Is the New $1 Million.

Everyone has seen the neighborhood that’s changed: One day it was on the fringe, and the next it had turned a corner. Suddenly, it was teeming with new businesses, new residents, new life—and newly high property values, to the advantage of those residents who stuck around. First-time buyers, cash-strapped buyers, and “pioneering” buyers alike flock to these next big neighborhoods. But to get in early before it becomes the next big thing is the key to stretching your dollar. How can you tell if a neighborhood is up and coming or down and out? Here are seven questions to ask yourself as you research a new neighborhood, especially if you’re thinking of making an offer on a new home. 

To find out more about the Luxury Real Estate market, check out Trulia’s report When It Comes to Homes, $5 Million Is the New $1 Million.

When she says you “Better Have My Money,” you listen. And now that phrase can have an entirely new meaning, because Rihanna can sell you her house! Back in October, the Barbadian beauty put her stylish five-bed, six-bath West Hollywood hacienda up for sale for $2.85 million and it’s still on the market today. We’re guessing Riri hasn’t spent all that much time in the home, seeing as she just bought it back in August of 2017 for $2.75 million.

Measuring 2651 square feet, the Spanish-style villa is located in a highly-coveted West Hollywood neighborhood. Tucked behind mature hedges and gates for the ultimate privacy, the home, which was built in 1926, is surrounded by a charming courtyard, succulent gardens, and sleek, modern esthetics. Step inside to the chef-grade kitchen, filled with high-end appliances and Ceaserstone countertops mixed with modern design elements. Naturally lit, the main house features four en-suite bedrooms with French doors that flow to one another. A back house has a cozy outdoor dining and lounge area with direct access to a kitchenette and a half-bath, while a private bedroom suite is located above with a stunning view of the swimming pool, lounge deck, and cabana area.

Though she doesn’t exactly stay in one place all that long, Rihanna certainly does have a bustling real estate portfolio. Back in June, she purchased a property in the Hollywood Hills for $6.8 million, and she owns two luxury condos: One is a luxurious $5.45 million home in a Century City tower, while the other is a smaller one in the Wilshire Corridor she bought back in 2016. Back in 2012, she purchased a $12 million home in the Pacific Palisades, but rented it out for a whopping $65,000 per month after several incidents with trespassers, and ultimately put it on the market in 2014. She’s also got great taste in vacation homes, like the $45 million Aspen mega-mansion she rented for vacation.

No matter where she goes, it’s safe to say that the singer will shine bright (like a diamond): She’ll soon be seen in Ocean’s Eight, co-starring Sandra Bullock, Dakota Fanning, Cate Blanchett, Anne Hathaway, and Mindy Kaling.

(Images courtesy of Trulia)

When she says you “Better Have My Money,” you listen. And now that phrase can have an entirely new meaning, because Rihanna can be your landlord! The Barbadian beauty just put her stylish West Hollywood hacienda up for rent for the low, low price of $16,500 per month. We’re guessing Riri hasn’t spent all that much time in the home, seeing as she just bought it back in August of 2017 for $2.75 million. The five-bed, six-bath property can also be yours for good: It’s on the market for $2.85 million.

Measuring 2651 square feet, the Spanish-style villa is located in a highly-coveted West Hollywood neighborhood. Tucked behind mature hedges and gates for the ultimate privacy, the home, which was built in 1926, is surrounded by a charming courtyard, succulent gardens, and sleek, modern esthetics. Step inside to the chef-grade kitchen, filled with high-end appliances and Ceaserstone countertops mixed with modern design elements. Naturally lit, the main house features four en-suite bedrooms with French doors that flow to one another. A back house has a cozy outdoor dining and lounge area with direct access to a kitchenette and a half-bath, while a private bedroom suite is located above with a stunning view of the swimming pool, lounge deck, and cabana area.

Though she doesn’t exactly stay in one place all that long, Rihanna certainly does have a bustling real estate portfolio. Back in June, she purchased a property in the Hollywood Hills for $6.8 million, and she owns two luxury condos: One is a luxurious $5.45 million home in a Century City tower, while the other is a smaller one in the Wilshire Corridor she bought back in 2016. Back in 2012, she purchased a $12 million home in the Pacific Palisades, but rented it out for a whopping $65,000 per month after several incidents with trespassers, and ultimately put it on the market in 2014. She’s also got great taste in vacation homes, like the $45 million Aspen mega-mansion she rented for vacation.

No matter where she goes, it’s safe to say that the singer will shine bright (like a diamond): She’ll soon be seen in Ocean’s Eight, co-starring Sandra Bullock, Dakota Fanning, Cate Blanchett, Anne Hathaway, and Mindy Kaling.

(photos courtesy of Trulia)

When she says you “Better Have My Money,” you listen. And now that phrase can have an entirely new meaning, because Rihanna can be your landlord! The Barbadian beauty just put her stylish West Hollywood hacienda up for rent for the low, low price of $16,500 per month. We’re guessing Riri hasn’t spent all that much time in the home, seeing as she just bought it back in August of 2017 for $2.75 million. The five-bed, six-bath property can also be yours for good: It’s on the market for $2.85 million.

Measuring 2651 square feet, the Spanish-style villa is located in a highly-coveted West Hollywood neighborhood. Tucked behind mature hedges and gates for the ultimate privacy, the home, which was built in 1926, is surrounded by a charming courtyard, succulent gardens, and sleek, modern esthetics. Step inside to the chef-grade kitchen, filled with high-end appliances and Ceaserstone countertops mixed with modern design elements. Naturally lit, the main house features four en-suite bedrooms with French doors that flow to one another. A back house has a cozy outdoor dining and lounge area with direct access to a kitchenette and a half-bath, while a private bedroom suite is located above with a stunning view of the swimming pool, lounge deck, and cabana area.

Though she doesn’t exactly stay in one place all that long, Rihanna certainly does have a bustling real estate portfolio. Back in June, she purchased a property in the Hollywood Hills for $6.8 million, and she owns two luxury condos: One is a luxurious $5.45 million home in a Century City tower, while the other is a smaller one in the Wilshire Corridor she bought back in 2016. Back in 2012, she purchased a $12 million home in the Pacific Palisades, but rented it out for a whopping $65,000 per month after several incidents with trespassers, and ultimately put it on the market in 2014. She’s also got great taste in vacation homes, like the $45 million Aspen mega-mansion she rented for vacation.

No matter where she goes, it’s safe to say that the singer will shine bright (like a diamond): She’ll soon be seen in Ocean’s Eight, co-starring Sandra Bullock, Dakota Fanning, Cate Blanchett, Anne Hathaway, and Mindy Kaling.

(photos courtesy of Trulia)

To find out more about the Luxury Real Estate market, check out Trulia’s report When It Comes to Homes, $5 Million Is the New $1 Million.