Sundial Apartment Homes

This Holiday Season, Celebrate in Anaheim, CA!

Fri, 17 Nov 2023 17:21:47 GMT

Most people visit Anaheim, CA, in the summer, but did you know that the holidays are one of the best times to visit? Disneyland is lit with bright strings of light, and beloved characters are dressed in their holiday best! Local organizations put on special holiday events, and some of the best shows and performances of the year are put on around the holidays.

Whether you’re here to visit or stay, you couldn’t ask for a better place to spend your holidays. Here are some of the best holiday activities, performances, shopping areas, and opportunities to volunteer in Anaheim, CA, this holiday season!

Activities

Take some time for yourself this holiday season and indulge in one (or all) of the great holiday activities near Anaheim, CA! There’s so much to do and see in Anaheim during the holidays. Don’t miss out: These great events only come once a year!

Holidays at the Disneyland Resort : There’s a ton to do at Disney this holiday season! There are dance festivals, cultural performances, holiday treats, singing, performances, and tree lightings. Rumor has it Santa himself will be visiting Disneyland with a few of his trusty elves. If you’re in a festive mood, don’t miss out on the festivities at the Disneyland Resort.

Be Sew Bizzy Christmas Event : Do you love sewing? Have you ever tried it? If not, now’s the perfect time to learn! Register to visit Be Sew Bizzy any time from 9 a.m. to 11 p.m. on Friday, December 1. There will be Christmas movies and music, games, and prizes. Lunch and dinner will also be provided alongside snacks and drinks. If you want to spend more time sewing after the event, there will be a holiday sale going on, too!

Knott’s Merry Farm : Knott’s Berry Farm may already be a favorite destination for you and your loved ones, but during the holiday season, it just gets better! From November 17 to January 7, Knott’s Merry Farm takes over the whole park, filling it with holiday lights, decor, food, treats, activities, and more. Knott’s Berry Farm is always fun for the whole family, and during the holiday season, it is even more memorable and magical! Check out this teaser video for a sneak peek of Knott’s Merry Farm!

Shows and Performances

Are the holidays really happy if you don’t take advantage of the great shows and performances coming to the area this season? We don’t think so! This year is bringing tons of great performances to Anaheim, CA. No matter what kind of music and performance calls to you, you’ll find something to jump-start your holiday cheer!

Anaheim Ballet’s Nutcracker : Little Clara is ready for a night of fanciful dreaming in the Land of Sweets in the seasonal classic The Nutcracker . This Anaheim Ballet production is enhanced by accompaniment from Symphony Irvine , sweetening the experience. Not that Clara would notice, however, as she’s too distracted by numerous sweets and her magical nutcracker prince. Performances are scheduled for November 24 and November 25 (including a matinee) at City National Grove of Anaheim .

Dickens Christmas Carol Singalong : The classic story of A Christmas Carol is a popular seasonal favorite, and the Charles Dickens Carolers have provided holiday cheer to the citizens of Anaheim and its surrounding cities since 1987. Dressed in traditional Dickensian costumes, this quartet sings traditional Christmas carols, popular holiday songs, and other children’s favorites in four-part harmony. This year’s singalong will take place on Sunday, December 17, from 7 to 9 p.m. at the Sage Granada Park United Methodist Church in nearby Alhambra. This event is free and open to the public with an RSVP or $20 at the door on the day of the event.

Concordia Christmas : Concordia’s annual Christmas Concert tradition is coming to the Renée and Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall for two shows on Saturday, December 9. Concordia’s famous choirs, handbells, and orchestra share tidings of great joy. This year’s theme, “Navidad: A Journey to Bethlehem,” showcases more than 200 performers from eight vocal and instrumental performing ensembles. Enjoy festive carols and Christmas favorites. Concordia’s Christmas Concerts sell out every year, so get your tickets today!

Shopping

Do you have a friend or family member who is impossibly hard to shop for? Maybe you’re just shopping in the wrong place. Anaheim and the surrounding areas have great places to find rare gifts at a great price, so you’re sure to find something your difficult family member or friend will love!

Sugar Plum Christmas Arts and Crafts Festival : This festival is the largest family-owned craft show of its kind in Southern California! If you’re looking for the best handmade gifts in the area, you’ll find them at the Sugar Plum Christmas Arts and Crafts Festival. Unique holiday decor, handmade crafts, jewelry, clothing, and more are waiting for you at this arts and crafts festival. This festival takes place November 29 through December 2 at the Westminster Mall. Stop by to find some true gems!

La Habra Christmas Boutique : The talented artists and craftspeople in the area are offering their one-of-a-kind handmade wares at the La Habra Christmas Boutique on November 17–18. Not only will you find great items and deals at this boutique, but there will also be plenty of food and delicious baked goods to enjoy while you’re browsing the boutique, enjoying the raffle, and playing some games.

Holiday on Main Street : There’s no better time to support local businesses in the community than around the holidays. The 33rd annual Holiday on Main Street in Yorba Linda offers visitors just that opportunity. Instead of visiting a big box store this holiday season, consider doing your shopping at this local event and help make sure local businesses will be around for years to come!

Opportunities to Share

The holidays are an amazing time of year, but it’s hard to celebrate if you’re homeless or living in poverty. This time of year, there are plenty of opportunities to share our time and money with others less fortunate. Consider participating in the below events, but if they don’t catch your attention, there are dozens of other ways to help. Let’s spread some holiday cheer this year!

Christmas Together 2023 : This annual event hosted by Families Together of Orange County serves thousands of families in and around Anaheim by providing toys to underprivileged children in the community. This year’s event will take place on Sunday, December 10, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Anaheim Convention Center and is gearing up to give away 30,000 toys along with other entertainment. Christmas Together is a free event, but preregistration is required for admission and to receive a gift.

Winter Wonderland: Toy Drive : This important event is about so much more than toys! It’s about helping the children and families in the community to get the help they need this holiday season. In addition to a free toy, children will get health screenings, haircuts, and snacks to make sure they’re healthy and happy this holiday season. Consider donating your time or money to this great cause! The toy drive takes place on Saturday, December 9, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Salt Lake Park in Huntington Park (3401 E. Florence).

Safe Celebration

Candles are a fun holiday staple, but up to 7,400 fires are started each year by this common household item. Pay special attention to where you place candles in your apartment, especially if you plan on having them in your bedroom. Battery-powered candles can be a fun and safe alternative, and they don’t run out of wax! Whatever you do, never leave the house with candles unattended, and don’t fall asleep with lit candles in the house!

Christmas trees can be another fire hazard you need to be aware of. If you’ve brought a real Christmas tree into your apartment during this holiday season, make sure you keep it watered so it isn’t quite as dangerous. But even a regularly watered Christmas tree will dry out. Keep all open flames, especially candles, away from the needles, and make sure you turn all lights off and unplug any strand lights when you’re not at home; unexpected electrical issues can occur at any time. Stay safe and enjoy the holidays!

There just aren’t enough hours in the day to enjoy all the holiday celebrations going on this year! Take advantage of all the great activities, shows, and shopping venues in and around Anaheim, CA. But don’t forget that not everyone will have happy holidays. Consider spreading some holiday cheer this year for those who are struggling. It will make your holidays even better! From everyone at the Sundial Apartments in Anaheim, CA, Happy Holidays!

The Ultimate Guide to Summer Activities in Anaheim, CA

Fri, 01 Jul 2022 20:35:00 GMT

Home to Disneyland, Knott’s Berry Farms, and Angels Stadium, Anaheim, CA, is a popular summer destination! But did you know that Anaheim hosts a wide variety of events and destinations that are less well-known as well? Here is the ultimate guide to all summer activities, events, and performances in Anaheim, CA!

This Holiday Season, Celebrate in Anaheim, CA!

Fri, 01 Apr 2022 06:36:00 GMT

Explore Anaheim: Anaheim GardenWalk

Tue, 24 Aug 2021 15:49:00 GMT

Spending a week in Anaheim? Looking for a destination that combines dining, nightlife, family-friendly fun, and shopping? Well then, Anaheim GardenWalk is perfect for you! Anaheim GardenWalk features popular restaurants, fun-filled entertainment centers, and shopping for everyone. Best of all, a walk down this strip is free!

Dining

With its wide variety of foods, it may be hard to choose just one place to eat from! Anaheim GardenWalk features all kinds of food options, whether you like tea, boba, burgers, shrimp, cheesecake, or anything in between. There is sure to be something that everyone in your group will love!

Entertainment & Lifestyle

Do you go to the gym every day? Or do you prefer clubbing or another hobby? Anaheim GardenWalk recognizes that not all people are the same and that each person has their own way of having fun! That is why they boast such a wide variety of entertainment. From bowling lanes to concerts and haunted museums, an entertaining time is guaranteed!

Shopping

Everyone deserves to treat themselves! That’s why you should stop by the shops at Anaheim GardenWalk. This wide variety of stores has something for everyone, even your pet! Stop by and grab something for the whole family. It is a perfect place to shop for gifts or for yourself!

Anaheim GardenWalk is perfect for everyone, with its wide variety in dining, entertainment, and shopping. Bring the whole family or friend group and have a fun-filled night! If just one night is not enough for you, then consider moving closer to GardenWalk by checking out the Sundial Apartment Homes in Anaheim, California. Call (714) 695-5632 today to learn more!

Image courtesy of Anaheim GardenWalk

Best Places for the Best Hikes in Anaheim, California

Wed, 28 Jul 2021 23:53:00 GMT

No matter where you are, there’s something so refreshing and therapeutic about getting out in nature. Hiking especially is shown to be significantly beneficial to your physical health, and it can reduce stress and anxiety.

Luckily, you don’t have to go far to get these benefits; you can find great hiking spots right here in Anaheim. Here are some of the best hikes near Anaheim that you should try out this summer!

Weir Canyon

The Weir Canyon Trail is a moderate 3.6-mile trail that loops around Weir Canyon Regional Park. The hike features beautiful wildflowers, and you might see some interesting animals as you hike. Plus, dogs are permitted on a leash, so you can bring your dog hiking with you! If you want a slightly shorter and easier version of the hike, the Weir Canyon Short Loop is a great alternative.

Anaheim Coves

For a flatter hike right in Anaheim, you can’t go wrong with Anaheim Coves . This is an easy three-mile trail right along the Santa Ana River that is perfect for any age or skill level. The serene landscape of water, trees, and wildlife is the perfect setting for a pleasant stroll at any time of the day. You can also use this trail for biking and running if you prefer.

Santiago Canyon

If you are a more experienced hiker and want a long hike near Anaheim, the Santiago Canyon Trail is well worth it. It is a 15.9-mile hike with an elevation gain of 2,791 feet. The trail goes through Cleveland National Forest and features stunning views of the mountainous terrain.

There’s no need to take a trip all the way to the Grand Canyon or Yosemite to start hiking. You can go on as many hikes as you want right here in Anaheim. These are some suggestions to get you started, but there are plenty more hikes near Anaheim to try out! After you experience some of these amazing hikes, we’re sure you’ll fall in love with Anaheim. When you do, consider moving to Sundial Apartment Homes .

Sundial Apartment Homes offers one- and two-bedroom apartments for rent in Anaheim, California.

Increase Your Credit Score Quickly by Paying Rent Online

Fri, 18 Jun 2021 19:38:00 GMT

Are you trying to improve your credit score? Well, we have good news: Paying rent online can help! In 2017, TransUnion studied 12,000 renters who reported their rent payments to credit bureaus over the course of a year. The study found that renters’ scores rose an average of 16 points within six months, and the benefit was greatest for those who started with a credit score below 620.

Paying rent online will ensure that payments are reported, they show credit bureaus what they are looking for, and the payments combine with credit card payments to increase your score! Let’s take a closer look.

Reporting Payments

Bev O’Shea at NerdWallet says, “Simply paying your rent will not help you build credit. 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 are these payments reported? Here at Sundial Apartment Homes , we offer an online rental payment system that reports information to the credit bureaus. This way, your on-time payments are kept track of, making your credit score improve!

Providing Rent History

Paying your rent online will provide credit bureaus with the information they are looking for. Experian, for example, determines credit scores through the following elements :

Paying your rent online provides you with a history of payments that includes this information. According to credit.com , “Rent payments that are reported show up like an auto loan if you have a defined lease term. They show up like a charge card when you pay month-to-month. Either way, a positive rental payment history can help show that you pay your bills on time.” As you continue paying on time and in full, you will see your credit score improve!

Combining with Credit Card Payments

In addition to paying rent online, using a credit card could be beneficial to improving your credit score! Using a credit card specifically to pay rent could be another place you could focus on establishing and building additional credit. Consider using a credit card next time you pay rent!

“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.”

Paying rent with a credit card is by no means a requirement. However, it can be a good way to make consistent payments on your credit card.

Start building your payment history by paying 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. Good luck in boosting your credit!

Here’s How We Are Living Green at Sundial Apartment Homes

Thu, 27 May 2021 18:38:00 GMT

When it comes to living green, we can do a lot more to prioritize our planet. For example, the US recycling rate is only at 34.5 percent . However, if we were able to get the rate to 75 percent, the effect would be like removing 50 million passenger cars from the roads. Imagine how much waste we could save if we all worked together.

Here at Sundial Apartment Homes, we want to do all we can to protect the environment and promote sustainable living—not just by encouraging our residents to recycle, but also by reducing unnecessary waste. Here are three ways we are living green at Sundial .

We Encourage Recycling

One of the best ways to start living green is to recycle. We have recycling bins in our office, and we encourage all residents to recycle as well. You can recycle items such as plastic bottles and containers, empty cans, paper, and flattened cardboard. However, you are not able to recycle food, plastic bags, liquid, plastic wrap, or cups with wax or plastic coating.

Here in Anaheim, you can take your recycling to Anaheim Recycling Center . This small change in habit can make a big difference for our planet.

We Save on Water

Anaheim is prone to droughts, so we do what we can to use water sparingly. To start, our property has drought-tolerant landscaping, which means we use plants, such as succulents, that don’t require much water. We also installed a drip irrigation system and replaced some grass and mulch areas with beautiful stone. This allows us to save thousands of gallons of water!

We save on water indoors with our plumbing system. While the average toilet uses about 3.5 gallons of water every time they flush, our low-flow toilets use about 20 percent less water. Each low-flow toilet can save up to 13,000 gallons of water per year!

We Save on Paper and Plastic

At Sundial, we go paperless by doing everything—rent payments, service requests, applications, and notices—online. Not only is this convenient for our residents, but it eliminates the need for unnecessary paper waste. In addition to this, we have a water bottle refill station , significantly reducing the waste from plastic water bottles.

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.

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.

We want to do everything we can to start living green and promoting sustainability. If you are looking for an apartment complex that cares as much about the earth as you do, Sundial Apartments may be the best new home for you!

Looking to Rent in Anaheim? Consider Sundial

Mon, 19 Apr 2021 22:12:00 GMT

There are plenty of apartments in Anaheim, but there aren’t many places where you’ll find the perfect mix of location, amenities, pet-friendly policies, and caring management.

Sundial Apartment Homes , located in West Anaheim near all your favorite places, has all that and more. Here’s why Sundial is the right place for you.

Amenities Galore at these Apartments in Anaheim

When you live at Sundial, the best part of your day is when you come home. This hidden treasure offers one- and two-bedroom apartments. Inside, you’ll find granite countertops, wood-style flooring, and spacious closets. Outside, there’s a resort-style pool and spa for residents, a well-lit picnic area, and state-of-the-art grills. It’s also pet-friendly, with at least one in five residents having a furry family member.

Here’s more of what you’ll find at Sundial:

First-Rate Location

Sundial is centrally located, so you’ll always be close to all your favorite Anaheim destinations.

If you’re looking for apartments in Anaheim, check out Sundial . It checks all your boxes with amenities galore—including a relaxing resort pool and spa and spacious apartments. It also has a first-rate location a short distance from everything Anaheim has to offer. So contact us today to see if we have an available apartment for you!

Tips for Setting Goals

Wed, 10 Mar 2021 21:07:00 GMT

It may be March, but that doesn’t mean it’s too late to set goals. There are so many benefits of goal setting. Some include higher energy, more clarity, more control of your future, and personal satisfaction in life.

If you are wondering how to set goals, our staff here at Sundial Apartment Homes came up with three helpful tips. Try them out!

Listen to the Experts

The internet is full of goal-setting theory. Two individuals known for their theories are Edward Locke and Gary Latham. According to their research, setting specific goals leads to higher performance. Together, Locke and Latham developed five principles to setting goals:

Write Them Down

You may have childhood memories of writing down personal goals during the beginning of a new school year (a class exercise that many elementary school teachers utilize in their classroom). There is a reason that your lovely teachers told you to write down your aspirations.

According to the book Yes! 50 Scientifically Proven Ways to Be Persuasive , writing down goals increases your odds of success. In one of the studies the authors reference, researchers found that only 17 percent of individuals who passively agreed to a volunteer project showed up. Out of the individuals who actively agreed to show up (signed a contract or wrote it down), 49 percent kept their promise. Truly, there is power in writing down your plans! So grab a piece of paper and a pen and write down your goals.

Make Them Public

Publicly sharing your goals can increase your motivation and push you to achieve them. When you don’t have a cheerleader or coach encouraging you to finish your tasks, you may postpone them or forget them altogether. By sharing your goals with another person, you are holding yourself accountable to that individual.

Sharing goals looks different for everyone. Some people prefer to post about their goals on social media. Others who tend to be more private prefer to share their goals with a few trusted friends. The method you choose doesn’t matter; the important thing is that you share your goal with at least one other person.

Setting goals can be a daily, weekly, monthly, or yearly task. If you need help setting goals, listen to the experts, write them down, and make them public. Doing these three things will help increase your chances of completing your goals. Happy goal setting!

Discover Anaheim and Support Local Restaurants

Tue, 23 Feb 2021 03:05:00 GMT

If you missed the ambiance of indoor dining, the unlimited bread, and the luxury of going out for a night in the town, you are in luck! With Governor Newsome’s order , indoor dining is once again fair game. Get dressed, pick your favorite local hub, and enjoy a nice meal inside a place other than your home.

Anaheim is a beautiful town with so much to offer. From authentic Mexican tacos to Chinese dishes and Italian pastas, your taste buds will be happy. Support local restaurants by dining in, dining out, or purchasing gift cards. Here are three of our favorite local restaurants to support during COVID-19.

For Our Seafood Lovers

If you have never eaten at Crab Bite , you are missing out. Known for their seafood platter, this eatery offers all sorts of buttery goodness. From king crab legs to oysters and lobster tails, you are in for a treat. To top it off, every item is served with their secret sauce. Yum!

The restaurant also offers crispy cajun and garlic wings, garlic mash potatoes, garlic noodles, and fried rice. On cooler days, warm yourself up with their housemaid chowder. Whether you want takeout or a dining experience, put this restaurant on the top of your must-try list.

For Our BBQ Lovers

Known for their large portions and low prices, WOW BBQ is the perfect place for a large family or a college student on a budget. But don’t let their prices fool you: Their food is divine.

Their dishes are classic BBQ with an Asian twist. You will find teriyaki rice bowls and spicy chicken and pork skewers with an option of rice and macaroni salad on the side. The best part is that you can order your food online : Simply select the items you want to purchase, choose your payment information, and submit!

For Our Noodle Lovers

If you like an assortment of ramen dishes, Ramen Hajime is the place for you. The restaurant offers Tonkotsu ramen, ultra spicy ramen, honey miso ramen, green ramen (for our veggie lovers and vegetarians), and more. There are also a variety of rice bowls to choose from as well as tasty appetizers, such as Japanese gyoza, shrimp tempura, and braised pork belly.

According to Thelma L. on Yelp, Ramen Hajime has perfect service and perfect food. “This place is phenomenal! Can’t ask for better ramen. Everything is good and cooked to perfection,” she writes. Don’t forget to visit this local eatery the next time you are out and about, and follow in Thelma’s footsteps and write a review! Leaving reviews is one of the best ways to support local restaurants.

Indoor dining is once again here! Support local restaurants and visit one of the three eateries we mention above. As always, practice all social distancing and CDC guidelines and don’t go out if you are experiencing flu- or cold-like symptoms. Happy eating!

Photo credit: Crab Bite

Three Reasons Why Pets Love Sundial

Wed, 23 Dec 2020 23:09:00 GMT

Pets are some of the greatest things life has to offer. They certainly are called man’s best friend for a reason! Not only do they bring us joy, but owning a pet can improve overall well-being—not only physically, but emotionally as well. According to the Journal of Personality and Social Psychology , quality time with your pets can ease feelings of loneliness as well as improve your overall mood. But finding a place to call home with your pet—one that loves your pet as much as you do—can be challenging.

At Sundial, we prioritize living happy, which is why we work hard to provide pet-friendly apartments. Let’s dive into why your pets would love Sundial as much as we love them.

Spacious Floor Plans

Sundial Apartments offers one- and two-bedroom apartments , so there is a floor plan for everyone, including your pet. Pets love lounging around or cuddling up close to their owners in the spacious rooms provided. It will be easy for you and your pet to create lasting memories together in this space.

Beautiful Outdoor Amenities

When it comes to time for outdoor play, pet-friendly apartments like Sundial make it easy to find something to do. At Sundial, we offer beautiful garden pathways and wide grassy areas for your pet to get some exercise. Pet Waste Stations are located throughout the property to ensure you can fully enjoy quality time on your walks. Our location is also ideal for a walk or run along the Stanton Bike Trail, which is only a quick five-minute walk away.

Our Considerate Pet Policy

We also have a pet policy in place to ensure you and your pets get the care they need. We ask that dogs be kept on a leash while walking through the grounds to ensure the safety of all pets and residents. We have breed restrictions due to size and behavior traits. Cats are also allowed at all communities, and other animals such as hamsters, guinea pigs, and other small animals are encouraged as long as they are caged and maintained in a sanitary environment. Keep in mind our apartments have a pet weight limit of 50 pounds, all pets must be registered with the office, and any additional animals must be approved by management. If you have any questions or concerns about our pet policy, we are more than happy to address them!

We love pets and all the great benefits they have to offer! We are dedicated to providing an environment your beloved animals are sure to fall in love with. Our pet-friendly apartments offer several things they are sure to love, including spacious floor plans, beautiful amenities, and a pet policy to ensure their safety. Come and see for yourself!

Three Crucial Appliance Maintenance Tips to Follow before the Holidays

Fri, 13 Nov 2020 22:29:00 GMT

Halloween is over, and the holiday season is here! Chilly weather and festive traditions make this a memory-filled season every year. Some of those memories are traditional and some not, but all are loads of fun!

What is not very fun during the holiday season is when a kitchen appliance doesn’t perform properly. In a survey of more than 381,000 appliances, Consumer Reports calculated that 6 percent of respondents reported problems with cooking elements not lighting or heating up on ranges, while 5 percent of people reported refrigerators that didn’t cool properly. An even larger 11 percent of people said their dishwashers stopped properly cleaning.

Don’t let a pesky broken appliance stop you from enjoying your festivities: follow these three appliance maintenance tips to make sure you have the best holidays possible.

Consider a Deep Clean

If you have ever hosted a holiday gathering before, you have likely spent time deep cleaning your home before your guests arrived. This season, include your kitchen appliances in your routine, and don’t be afraid to give them some detailed attention.

First, pull your fridge away from the wall and clean out the dust from the mechanical coils . You can then move to the oven and stove. Take the time to make sure the heating elements and burners heat and ignite fully. If your stove is electric, take the burners out and clean them individually . Don’t forget about the dishwasher; make sure to clean your dishwasher by setting a single dishwasher-safe cup of white vinegar on the top rack and running a full cycle. These extra steps will help ensure a happier holiday season.

Try Cooking a Test Meal

Don’t leave your holiday meal to chance. Now is the time to test your appliances and recipes out before the big day in the kitchen. A couple of weeks before you plan on doing the cooking for your holiday meal, turn all the appliances you are going to use on and cook whatever you like. Then, load up the dishwasher and make sure everything comes clean. By testing all the appliances, you will find out early if they have any issues that need to be fixed by a professional and can schedule a time to have them repaired.

Get Professional Maintenance from Our Team

At Sundial Apartment Homes , we don’t want there to be anything stopping you from having holiday celebrations that are as magical and memory-filled as you envision. If these appliance maintenance tips aren’t enough, our on-site management and 24-hour maintenance teams are poised and ready to help you get all your appliances running again in no time. If, while you were cooking, you noticed that one of your stove burners won’t heat up, simply visit Sundial’s Resident Portal and submit a work order. Our team will arrange a time for repair right away, so you lose no time in preparing for holiday happiness.

Stop your worries about broken appliances this holiday season by spending a little extra time following these appliance maintenance tips. If you clean and test your appliances and reach out to maintenance when you need repairs, you should be set to have the happiest of holidays yet!

Renting vs. Buying: Three Facts to Make Your Decision Easier

Tue, 27 Oct 2020 20:09:00 GMT

Did you know that one-third of America’s population are renters? According to RentCafé, that equates to 108.5 million people living in rental homes, apartments, and other properties around the country. And that number continues to rise.

When it comes to comparing the benefits of renting vs. buying, there are several strong factors in the “Pros” column. Lower upfront and long-term costs, freedom from ongoing maintenance and repairs, and the flexibility to move more easily are just three benefits. Read on to learn more.

Costs Are Lower Renting vs. Buying

Homeownership opens the door to a multitude of unexpected, long-term expenses such as property taxes, insurance, and regular maintenance costs, all of which can vary month to month. Renting, however, is a set rate every month. “ A whopping 84% of renters said they believe renting is more affordable than owning—an all-time high for the survey,” says Julia Falcon for HousingWire.com . “For comparison, this number is up 17 percentage points from February 2018. ”

From the moment you sign your lease, your upfront costs are lower when renting vs. buying. When buying a home with a mortgage, traditionally, a down payment is 20 percent of the home’s purchase price. Renters, however, only need to pay a security deposit, often equal to one month’s rent, which will be returned to you when you move out (provided you haven’t caused significant damage to the property).

Then there are the long-term costs to consider. Unlike homeowners, renters don’t pay property taxes, and renters insurance is much cheaper than homeowners insurance. On average, a rental insurance policy is $187 per year, while a homeowner’s insurance policy is around $1,083, according to ValuePenguin .

Someone Else Handles Maintenance and Repairs

Sadly, home repairs can’t all be prepped for, like that dishwasher that decides to quit or the water heater that starts leaking. When the unexpected happens, it’s a relief to know those repairs and replacements will be taken care of by someone directly responsible for managing repairs .

For example, at Sundial, we have friendly and well-trained staff who are certified to make all those unexpected repairs. Once you report that something in your apartment needs repair, our team sets to work. So much easier than hiring a contractor or heading to the hardware store for parts.

Ready for a Change? Move When You’re Ready

One beauty of renting vs. buying is the freedom of living wherever you want. Did you get a new job in a neighboring town? You have more flexibility to move closer. Compared to a long-term, 30-year mortgage, a rental lease is relatively short. “ Renters have the option to downsize to a more affordable living space at the end of their lease,” said Amanda C. Haury of Investopedia . “ Although rents can be high in areas where home values are also high, renters can more readily find an affordable monthly payment than home buyers. ”

While we hate to see you leave, at Sundial, we want to ensure you are taken care of wherever you go. That’s why we created our loyalty bonus: If you move from Sundial to another AMC property or vice versa, we’ll reward you with $250 to help you get settled.

With a difference in costs, less responsibility, and more freedom, it’s easy to see why more and more people are choosing to rent. We want to make coming home to Sundial the best part of your day. Come visit us and learn more about the benefits of renting.

Eat at One of These Local Ice Cream Shops

Tue, 08 Sep 2020 16:18:00 GMT

Here in the US, we take our ice cream seriously! In fact, we are the world’s largest producers and consumers of ice cream ! While we’ll take pretty much any ice cream we can get our hands on, statistics show that it’s the premium stuff that we long for. With that, here are four local ice cream shops in and around Anaheim that will go above and beyond your expectations:

La Michoacana Gourmet

927 S. Brookhurst Street, Anaheim, CA 92804

For flavor and recipes “inspired from Mexican heritage and history,” head west on Ball Road from Sundial Apartments to La Michoacana Gourmet . This unique shop features everything from ice cream cakes to churros, juices and smoothies to shaved ice. They also feature unique flavors like Pistachio Paradise and the instantly Instagramable, jet-black Charcoal.

Delight Ice Cream & Drinks

9757 Garden Grove Boulevard #1, Garden Grove, CA 92844

Simply browse the gallery on the Delight Ice Cream & Drinks website and you’ll see for yourself that you’re in for a unique experience. We recommend the Bobalicious, a soft-serve treat served in a fish-shaped cone and topped with Fruity Pebbles.

Cauldron Ice Cream

12900 S. Euclid Street, Garden Grove, CA 92840

Cauldron claims the title of “Home of the OG Puffle Cone.” The Puffle Cone is Cauldron’s spin on the Japanese egg waffle. People Magazine raved about the concoction, writing, “Made from a sweet, egg-based batter, the puffle, well, puffs up when cooked, forming adorable little pockets that makes the cones super Instagram-worthy.”

Tocumba Ice Cream

956 S. Euclid Street, Anaheim, CA 92802

Tocumba is also a quick trip west on Ball Road from Sundial Apartments. There, you can find plenty of Hispanic treats, like paletas—delicious fruit popsicles—fruit drinks, smoothies, and, of course, ice cream.

So what are you waiting for? Head to one of these nearby ice cream shops and enjoy the taste of summer! These premium ice cream menu offerings will not disappoint! We wouldn’t judge you if you felt the need to try them all! And let us know if you find one we haven’t heard of yet.

Paying Rent Online and Improving Your Credit Score: Two Birds, One Stone

Fri, 07 Aug 2020 11:14:00 GMT

The next time you pay rent, work on improving your credit score at the same time to kill two birds with one stone! Are you wondering how paying rent online improves credit? Read on to have all your questions answered:

In 2017, TransUnion studied 12,000 renters who were reporting their rent payments to the credit bureaus. On average, their scores improved by 16 points within six months! And those who had beginning scores of lower than 620 saw the biggest increases!

To see a similar increase in your credit score, try paying your rent online. Doing so ensures your payments are reported, shows credit bureaus what they are looking for, and can combine with credit card payments to increase your score even more. Here’s how.

Adds Your Payments to Your Credit Report

“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 get your rent payments reported? At Sundial Apartment Homes , our online rental payment system takes care of it for you. Simply pay through the portal, and the credit bureaus will receive a record of your on-time rental payments, which will bolster your score. In order to opt in for the credit reporting, follow these steps:

Shows Credit Bureaus Relevant Information

What actually goes into a credit score, and does paying rent online truly improve your score? Experian, for example, determines credit scores through the following elements :

By paying rent online, this builds out your payment history. Your continued on-time and in-full payments will contribute to a higher score as well.

Use with Credit Cards to Gain More

To work on improving your credit score even more, pay your rent online with a credit card.

You certainly don’t need to pay rent online with a credit card, but it can give your score an additional boost.

Go ahead and give it a try: Pay 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!

Three Cheap Family Night Activities

Thu, 23 Jul 2020 18:14:00 GMT

If you grew up in the disco age or listened to your parents’ music as a child, chances are, you recognize the lyrics “We are family / I got all my sisters and me / We are family / Get up everybody and sing.”

In honor of the Sister Sledge’s catchy song , we have compiled a list of fun and CHEAP family night activities to do during quarantine that all your kids will enjoy. Get ready to host the most unique family night of your life and for your kids to love you even more for it!

1. Time Capsule

Time capsules aren’t just for graduating high school classes to stash their valuables in. They are the perfect opportunity to preserve family memories. When making your very own time capsule, here are a few things to consider:

You probably don’t have a sturdy metal chest lying around your apartment, and that’s okay. A jar or a box will be just as good. These tips will help you know which materials are best for long-term storage .

When gathering items to store in your capsule, encourage your kids to place a favorite toy, a top-marks school paper, any photos from the last few years, examples of their favorite clothing trends from a magazine, and a note written from them to their future selves. In 10 or 20 years, get together, open it up, and have a good laugh.

2. Formal Night

Due to recent state closure orders to help slow the spread of COVID-19, many families are spending their time indoors. If you want to mix up your normal weekend routine, why not plan a formal night with your family? Dad, consider putting on business casual clothes. Mom, now is the time to wear that fancy skirt you love! Encourage your kids to wear nice clothing as well! Then pick up takeout from a local shop and end the night eating the food back at your apartment, in your car with a pretty view, or near the beach. When your family night is over, you’ll be amazed at how good you all feel!

3. Smores Galore

Have you ever roasted marshmallows on the beach? Well, now is the time to spend your Saturday evening eating gooey mallows and bars of chocolate.

There are multiple beaches that allow bonfires, one of them being Huntington Beach, which still has fire pits that are open during COVID-19 . Buy your supplies, choose a time to go (we recommend at dusk because nothing beats Southern California summer sunsets), and have a memorable night with your family.

If you are running out of family night activities, consider making a time capsule, hosting a formal night, or roasting marshmallows on the beach. These unique and cheap activities will break up your normal quarantine routine and add some adventure to your family night activities.

Beach Season Is Here! Join Us for Our Virtual Cleanup

Mon, 13 Jul 2020 17:43:00 GMT

Did you know that by 2050, the number of plastics floating in our oceans is projected to be greater than the number of fish? This startling statistic has us here at Sundial Apartment Homes wanting to do our part to preserve our beautiful oceans and beaches. Here’s what we’re doing and how you can help too!

Every summer, those of us at AMC and our families come together to collect trash on our beaches in an effort to keep them clean. While social distancing measures are keeping us from getting together in person this year, we’re still asking for your help for a “virtual” cleanup!

On July 25 (or another day that works for you during the month), get together with members of your immediate household and conduct your own beach and park cleanup in Anaheim! These small efforts can lead to big results for our beautiful beaches and parks. Here’s why we should keep our parks and beaches clean, what you’ll need to get started, and how to stay safe.

Why Keep Our Parks and Beaches Clean?

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

“There is satisfaction to say, ‘I removed ten pounds of trash from my beach,’” says Kara Lavender Law, a research oceanography professor. “Even if it’s only ten pounds, that’s ten pounds that isn’t going to go into the open ocean.”

In addition to protecting wildlife, “clean beaches provide economic benefit to local communities in the form of tourism dollars,” says Laura Parker at National Geographic . “In southern California, researchers calculated that in Orange County alone that potential could translate into $46 million in just one summer.”

Whether you clean up nearby Harry Dotson or Stanton Central parks or take a drive to Bolsa Chica or Sunset beaches, you’re making the world a more beautiful place. As an added personal bonus, beach cleanup is a great workout too!

What You’ll Need to Get Started

Now that you have July 25 set aside for beach cleanup, gather your supplies ! You’ll need the following:

How to Stay Safe

With social distancing measures still in place, your crew will likely be small, with only your immediate household members. If you are expanding your cleanup group to include friends and extended family, consider 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.” And in keeping with California’s mask mandate , wear your mask “when maintaining a physical distance of 6 feet from persons who are not members of the same household or residence is not feasible.”

Cleaning up beaches and parks really makes a difference and is a fun and memorable summer activity. So join us for our beach and park cleanup in Anaheim on July 25 or anytime during the month of July! Tag Sundial Apartment Homes in your photos and use the hashtags #AMCcleanup and #livehappy. We can’t wait to see the difference you are making!

3 Brain-Stimulating Tips to Keep Your Mind Sharp and Healthy

Tue, 30 Jun 2020 20:58:00 GMT

Everyone knows it’s important to exercise your body regularly in order to combat physical disease and aging. But did you know that your brain also needs to be mentally exercised to combat brain-related disease and aging ? Here are three brain-stimulating tips to keep your mind sharp and healthy:

1. Learn a New Skill

Picking up a new hobby this summer will do more than just keep boredom at bay! As it turns out, acquiring a new skill can help improve your performance on various other tasks and increase your learning speed. It can also help fight brain-damaging diseases such as dementia and Alzheimer’s. So whether it’s sewing a quilt, surfing near Newport , or studying a foreign language, learning a new skill will exercise your brain and keep it in shape.

2. Play or Listen to Music

Did you know that playing an instrument can help your brain in a number of different ways? To name a few, it can improve memory, increase problem-solving abilities, and even change your brain anatomy for the better. For our friends who can’t pick out notes, let alone play an instrument, take heart: Even just listening to upbeat music can improve brainpower and creativity! And there you have it—a form of “exercise” that everyone will enjoy!

3. Take Time to Meditate

Of course, we know that meditation can calm you. But, did you know that it also stimulates brain activity? In fact, one study linked the practice of meditation to increased brain size . It makes sense; your brain is like a muscle, and meditation is a mental exercise.

It doesn’t take much to experience the benefits of meditation, either. According to Headspace , “a regular practice associated with benefits involves 10-20 minutes of meditation at least 3 times a week.” The key here is to do it regularly.

This summer, while you’re exercising your body, don’t forget to also exercise your brain! By learning a new skill, playing or listening to music, and taking time to meditate, you’ll be stimulating and strengthening your brain. These sound like some of the most enjoyable forms of exercise we’ve ever heard of!

4 Apps to Help You Track Your Water Intake

Fri, 19 Jun 2020 05:33:00 GMT

With Sunset Beach just 20 minutes down the road from our Sundial Apartment Homes, the ocean is never very far from the minds of our VIPs. Watching the waves can give us a sense of peace and help us to clear our minds.

Water is essential to life. In fact, the human body is made up of up to 60 percent water. Men need to be drinking a minimum of three liters of liquid per day, and women should drink nine cups per day . Are you drinking enough water? If not, here are four apps to help you give your body what it needs.

1. WaterMinder

This highly-rated app is available on both iPhone and Android . It provides a simple user experience that will help you set a personal hydration goal based on your own body weight. It will then send you reminders throughout the day to help you stay on track. As you log your water intake, you can use the app to view your history and gauge how you’re progressing.

2. Plant Nanny

If you’d like to have a little bit more fun tracking your hydration, then Plant Nanny might be the app for you. iOS and Android users get the chance to play nanny to a variety of cute little plants. Choose fun flower pots for your plants and unlock new pots and plants as you track your water intake. As you get busy helping your little plants grow, you might find yourself looking for excuses to drink more water!

3. My Water

This app helps you track and balance all of the fluids you drink. This is especially useful for those of us who tend to drink a variety of beverages beyond water (coffee, tea, sports drinks, etc.). It also offers reminders, statistics/graphs, motivational awards, and useful tips about water. Check it out on the App Store or Google Play .

4. MyFitnessPal

If you like to keep a closer eye on what you drink and eat overall, then MyFitnessPal is a great bet. To date, it’s received over one million ratings on the App Store and has an overall score of 4.7 (out of 5). Among the various features available for free is a hydration tracking system. It also allows you to track exercise and your weight. Whether you’re new to fitness or are a full-fledged fanatic, MyFitnessPal could be the buddy you’ve been looking for. Also available on Google Play .

Water is key to all elements of human health. Even if you feel like you’ve been getting enough, it never hurts to double-check that you’re drinking sufficient amounts. Whether you choose WaterMinder, Plant Nanny, My Water, MyFitnessPal, or another app entirely, your body is sure to thank you for the added hydration.

Summer is here; it’s time to make your way to Sunset Beach. Just don’t forget your water!

Achieve Glowing Skin with These 3 Beauty Tips

Tue, 02 Jun 2020 03:24:00 GMT

Do you envy that friend who always has perfectly bright, unblemished, and glowing skin? You might be surprised to know that making small changes to your daily care routine can yield a big impact on your skin’s appearance. Here are three tips you can implement today to achieve that dewy radiance that everyone yearns for:

We all know that sunscreen helps prevent skin cancer . But, did you know that sunscreen has been found to protect your skin from aging as well? That’s right— sun exposure is the culprit for 90 percent of the skin aging symptoms we have. Sunscreen helps block the sun’s ultraviolet rays, which cause wrinkling, aging spots, and a loss of elasticity. So if you want to have glowing (and cancer-free) skin when you are age 55 and beyond, daily sunscreen is a must!

Because your skin is an organ , it’s made up of cells that rely on water to function properly. If you aren’t consuming enough water, your skin may turn flaky, dry, and tight. These conditions make your skin vulnerable to wrinkles and premature aging.

The best thing you can do is hydrate, hydrate, hydrate! That means drinking enough water and applying lotion when necessary. Tote a water bottle around with you, use a water tracking app on your phone, or set a reminder every two hours to drink up! And don’t forget to rub in some lotion every morning and night.

Have you heard the saying “You are what you eat”? Well, when it comes to your skin, that’s definitely true! Consuming nutritious food is important in keeping all of your organs performing optimally, including your body’s largest organ: your skin .

Foods like fatty fish, walnuts, avocados, sweet potatoes, tomatoes, bell peppers, broccoli, soy, and even dark chocolate have been shown to yield positive effects for our skin . On the other hand, research indicates that refined sugars can wreak havoc on our skin due to inflammation .

Healthy habits produce healthy skin. Improve your natural glow by wearing sunscreen, drinking plenty of water, and consuming nutritious foods. As a result, your reflection will disguise your age for years to come!

4 Tips for Renting with a Pet

Wed, 27 May 2020 23:57:00 GMT

Pets are amazing. They can provide companionship, reduce stress, and even help us make new human friends . But when you’re renting, living with a pet means you need to put some more thought into the situation. If you’ve ever thought about getting a pet, or already have one, here are four tips for renting with your animal roommate.

1. Ask a fellow VIP.

Your fellow residents can be a great resource in your quest for the perfect pet. Those who have lived there for a while will likely be able to give you an idea of the types of animals that tend to thrive in the area. It’s also important to check with the city; sometimes, there are local government regulations regarding specific breeds or species.

2. Choose a pet that matches your lifestyle.

It’s important to take an honest look at the type of lifestyle you lead. Are you an active jogger who needs a companion? Or are you looking for a friend to watch movies with in the evening? While each individual animal is different, some pets fit better into different lifestyles than others . If you spend a lot of time away from home, then you may need to pick a pet that is happy to wait around for you. For example, some dog breeds can be more prone to separation anxiety than others.

3. Be responsible for your pet.

Your fellow VIPs, both those with and without pets, are counting on you to take good care of your little friend and to be considerate of others. For example, it’s important to keep your dog on a leash and to clean up after her. If you share walls with others, make sure that you either choose a quiet pet or train your pet to make minimal noise . Sometimes it takes time to teach a new or young pet to behave in an apartment. Talking to your neighbors can go a long way towards helping them understand that you’re working on helping your pet to fit in.

4. Introduce your pet to others.

Pets help us socialize . They can be great icebreakers between fellow pet owners, but be sure not to leave out your petless peers. Non-pet owners might appreciate the chance to get some of the benefits of having a pet by interacting with yours. Plus, having others who care about your pet could come in handy should he/she ever escape!

Living with a pet can be one of the best parts of life. As a renter, be sure you get the most out of the experience by asking your fellow VIPs for advice, choosing a pet that fits your lifestyle, being responsible, and introducing your pet to others. Do all this, and you may never want another roommate again!

Work from Home Productivity Tips

Fri, 01 May 2020 20:41:00 GMT

You’ve envied the digital nomads traveling the world, living that #vanlife, and setting up shop wherever their laptop is. Now’s your chance. You get a taste of working in your own home office. And working from home can be wonderful, convenient, even luxurious . . . until your home life comes crashing in on your “office.” Screaming toddlers, noisy neighbors, overextended Wi-Fi—all of these can ruin your productivity at home.

For those of you suddenly longing for the seclusion and privacy of your cubicle, here are some tips on how to maximize your productivity from your new home office.

Select your new spot.

Don’t give in to the temptation of home comforts: Working from your bed may seem like a convenient cheat, but don’t be seduced by the coziness of your sleep space. Set aside an area away from distractions (family included), buy a desk if space permits, and declare your new corner your own work oasis.

“Mess” is a four-letter word.

Messes of any kind distract you from what you should be focusing on. Keep your area as tidy as possible with file organizers and wipe your desk surface to ensure your workspace is decluttered and sanitary. Less mess = more focus.

Posture is key.

High-class conference rooms don’t have futons, bean bag chairs, or couches. Sofas and beds are for lounging and bingeing Netflix. Filing reports, discussing budgets, and interfacing with clients calls for a higher class of furniture. Find seating that will keep your posture in check, thereby enhancing blood flow , improving breathing, and reducing lower back pain.

Just another workday.

A lot has changed now that you’re working from home. But your workday can—and should—still have the same structure and schedule. Treat it just like any other workday, sans the commute. “Clock in” at the same time you always do. Plan out your daily tasks in the morning to give your schedule the structure you need to stay focused. Most importantly, step away. According to research scientist Jennifer Deal , “Taking breaks from work is important for recovery—and adequate recovery is critical for top performance.” So take 10-minute breaks to stretch, grab some water, and recharge before diving back in.

Boundaries are crucial.

You love them, but your family is not welcome in your workplace. Communicate your schedule with your family and/or roommates to set clear boundaries and avoid distractions.

Control your digital space.

Ok, you’ve got your corner of your home cordoned off for work. The kids are in another room playing quietly. Your desk is tidy and clean. Now what? Surely you deserve a quick 30 seconds to scroll through Twitter, right?

Wrong! This is your workspace; you need to eliminate ALL distractions. That includes what’s on your phone and/or laptop. Hide or delete your social media apps; relegate that kind of personal time for your lunch hour.

Aside from removing the problematic apps from your digital space, there are many tools you can add to your workflow to improve your productivity. Video conference calls on Zoom and chatting over Google Hangouts or Slack are just a few options a step above traditional phone calls and emails.

Come home from . . . home.

Part of why you sectioned off part of your living space for work in the first place was to maintain that distinction between work life and home life. When you clock out, exit all work accounts, turn off your laptop, and “come home.” Work will be waiting for you in the morning.

Working from home can be liberating if you have the discipline to create a productive workspace no matter where you are. Give these tips a try and remember to work hard AND play hard. Stay safe out there and wash your hands.

7 Reasons to Love Spring

Wed, 22 Apr 2020 16:03:00 GMT

The colder months are finally winding down, and there’s a newness in the air. Spring is finally here! Here are seven reasons to absolutely love this season:

1. More Sunshine

Because of the Earth’s position relative to the sun, spring brings more light to the northern hemisphere during the day than in the winter. More sunlight is linked to added happiness, so expect a little boost in your mood.

2. New Goals

New Year’s is often associated with goal-setting. However, if you’re feeling guilty about unmet milestones, spring is a new beginning. Set new goals, and be motivated by the change around you. If spring can come back after winter, you can change for the better too!

3. More Warmth

The added warmth of spring is invigorating. Warmer temperatures are linked to improved moods and even added creativity!

4. New Sounds

Are you suddenly waking up to birds chirping each morning? This music is known as the “ Dawn Chorus .” While the birds serenade us throughout many other seasons, it’s at its best and brightest during the spring. Enjoy this telltale sign that spring is already on its way!

5. More Celebrations

Spring brings some holiday favorites like Easter and Mother’s Day. Enjoy your traditions, whatever they may be. And if you’re looking for more things to celebrate, there are plenty of other fun “holidays” in between. Check out this list to help make every day of spring a celebration !

6. New Scents

There is a beautifully distinct scent in the air during springtime, thanks to all of the new plants and blossoms around you. Its sweet aroma is absolutely energizing, so take advantage of this season. Open your windows to let some fresh air and scents in!

7. New Fresh Recipes

Spring brings a new batch of fresh foods to your table. Here is a list of some of the most common in-season fruits and vegetables that spring will bring to your market (and table). Consuming more produce not only boosts your physical health but your mental health as well. Here are some guilt-free fresh recipes to help you enjoy all of these benefits!

There are plenty of reasons to love spring! Soak it in, in all of its various forms. Once you do, you’ll likely associate these new enjoyable memories with spring for years to come!

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

Thu, 26 Mar 2020 22:58:00 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 20:13:00 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 14:06:00 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.