<h2>#1: Lay Your Plans</h2>
<p>Hosting family and friends for Thanksgiving in your apartment requires coordination. Use the weeks leading up to the holiday to:</p>
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.ardentcommunities.com/about-our-company/blog/tips-for-deep-cleaning-your-apartment">Declutter and clean your apartment</a></li>
<li>Create your guest list</li>
<li>Decide what dishes to serve</li>
<li>Make seating arrangements</li>
<li>Shop for supplies</li>
</ul>
<p>Doing those tasks early on prevents you from scrambling to find that last-minute ingredient or throwing seating together. You may need to limit the number of people you have in your apartment to optimize your space and keep everyone comfortable. Determine how you want to serve the food, as buffet- and family-style dinners have different logistical requirements.</p>
<h2>#2: Prep Your Kitchen</h2>
<p>If you’re working with limited counter space, put away <a href="https://www.ardentcommunities.com/about-our-company/blog/9-must-have-kitchen-gadgets-for-your-apartment">appliances like coffee makers, toasters and blenders</a>. Assess your menu and decide which foods to prep early to save room to cook on Thanksgiving Day. You can also ask guests to bring a side if your oven can’t accommodate multiple dishes.</p>
<p>Instant pots, crock pots and air fryers provide more options for preparing food like mashed potatoes, green bean casserole and gravy. Disposable pans and dishes make cleanup easier, and reusable containers allow guests to take leftovers, so you can save space in your refrigerator.</p>
<h2>#3: Make the Most of Your Space</h2>
<p>Consider the flow of your living room, dining area and kitchen to determine how your guests will get to and from their seats. You may need to move furniture to accommodate your seating arrangement. Store unnecessary items in a guest or master bedroom so you can set up foldable tables or bring in chairs.</p>
<p>Hosting Thanksgiving in an apartment may require you to be creative with seating. If your home doesn’t allow for long tables, you may try smaller options, foldable tables and even coffee tables.</p>
<p>Rollaway carts and tiered trays allow you to stack and move dishes based on your serving style. You could even set up stations for the main course, beverages and dessert, or switch them out on one surface to save space.</p>
<h2>#4: Set the Scene</h2>
<p>Use festive décor to <a href="https://www.ardentcommunities.com/about-our-company/blog/how-to-create-positive-energy-in-your-apartment">create a cozy, welcoming environment</a> for your guests. Here are some suggestions:</p>
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.ardentcommunities.com/about-our-company/blog/minimalist-apartment-design-ideas-for-your-living-space"><strong>Minimal décor:</strong></a> You can use simple table runners and seasonal placemats to add a festive touch to your tablescape without taking up too much space.</li>
<li><strong>Ambient lighting:</strong> String lights around windows and light candles to add a soft glow.</li>
<li><strong>Seasonal scents:</strong> Aside from the mouth-watering cooking smells, seasonal aromas like cinnamon, pumpkin spice and apple can amp up the holiday atmosphere.</li>
<li><strong>Background music:</strong> Instrumental and acoustic music provide a mellow background for your party, while jazzier alternatives can boost the energy in the room.</li>
<li><strong>Warm tones:</strong> Incorporate russets, burnt orange, mustard yellow and rich browns into tablecloths, placemats, napkins, blankets, pillows and rugs to add a touch of warmth to your gathering.</li>
</ul>
<h2>#5: Be Considerate</h2>
<p>It’s important to maintain a reasonable noise level when hosting Thanksgiving in your apartment. You still have neighbors, after all, and not everyone celebrates at the same time. Provide your guests with estimated start and end times, so they know when to start packing up for the evening. Explain parking guidelines and recommend carpooling to avoid taking up too many guest spaces. If your company stays later than anticipated, be prepared for more relaxing entertainment, like watching a movie, or find another location for rowdier activities.</p>
<h2>#6: Set Realistic Expectations</h2>
<p>The pressure of making a perfect meal can detract from the joy of gathering with your loved ones. Even the most thorough plans can go awry, so don’t let any deviations prevent you from enjoying your holiday.  Roll with the punches and use your support system if you require assistance with setup, meal prep and cleanup. You can use a mixture of homemade and store-bought dishes to simplify the cooking process. For example, purchasing premade appetizers allows you to focus on the main course and dessert.</p>
<h2>Spacious Apartments Fit for Hosting</h2>
<p>Come home for the holidays at an Ardent Communities apartment or townhouse in Columbus, Ohio. Our spacious single- and multi-bedroom suites offer living and dining areas that are effective for hosting seasonal parties. <a href="https://www.ardentcommunities.com/apartments">View our properties</a> and contact us to <a href="https://www.ardentcommunities.com/about-our-company/schedule-a-tour">schedule a tour</a>.</p>


6 Tips for Hosting Thanksgiving in an Apartment

<h2>Why More Renters are Using Virtual Apartment Tours</h2>
<p><strong>Time:</strong> You don’t schedule an appointment to take a virtual tour. You can look at 3D models, images and videos at any time of day, which is convenient if you’re working around a busy schedule.</p>
<p><strong>Efficiency:</strong> Digital tours allow you to “visit” multiple communities in a short amount of time without having to drive to different places. It’s an effective way to get an initial impression of a rental so you can decide if you want to pursue it.</p>
<p><strong>Remote capabilities:</strong> By touring apartments online, you can visit virtually any apartment complex in the world. You’re able to get a sense of the atmosphere of your potential home, whether you’re moving across the state or country.</p>
<h3>Disadvantages to Consider</h3>
<p>Virtual apartment tours aren’t without their limits. You’re subject to reduced visibility, so you might not see every inch of a space. You also don’t have the benefit of using your other senses to understand what sounds and smells you could encounter. Some companies use AI-generated images to enhance a rental, so be mindful of edited visuals. Interior pictures are essential, but so are outdoor shots, though not all property listings include them. That information gives you context about the views from a residence as well as an idea of the surrounding neighborhood.</p>
<h2>Red Flags to Note During a Virtual Tour</h2>
<h3>Poor Video Quality</h3>
<p>Not only does bad video make it difficult to see a space, but it may also raise suspicions about the intention behind its use. It’s easier to hide a lack of <a href="https://www.ardentcommunities.com/about-our-company/blog/when-to-contact-apartment-maintenance-for-your-unit">maintenance and repairs</a> in pixelated recordings. Limited angles and missing views may also reflect an attempt to hide damage and layout issues.</p>
<h3>Staged Photos</h3>
<p>Wide-angle photos can make an apartment appear larger, while cropped images can be used to hide parts of a room. Pay attention to lighting as well, as overly bright spaces can be deceptive and obscure features and fixtures.</p>
<p>Ask yourself the following questions:</p>
<ul>
<li>Can you see full walls and floors?</li>
<li>Are there any curved or elongated elements in a photo?</li>
<li>Are photos of key areas like closets, bathrooms and outdoor spaces missing?</li>
<li>Does an image have odd cropping or shadows?</li>
<li>Are there pictures of the apartment without furniture?</li>
</ul>
<p>The answers could reveal an attempt to distract from less-than-desirable repairs and features. Ask the landlord or property manager for updated images to verify the authenticity of the listing.</p>
<h3>Inconsistent Property Details</h3>
<p>If a listing provides a floor plan, compare that against the virtual tour to determine if there are any rooms that aren’t included. You can ask the property management team to provide additional video to clarify inconsistencies. Some companies use a dedicated unit to generate stock images and videos for multiple listings. Ask if the visuals provided correspond with the listed rental, and request a live tour to get an accurate assessment. Look at descriptions of <a href="https://www.ardentcommunities.com/about-our-company/blog/must-have-apartment-features-and-amenities">features and amenities</a> to determine if finishes and fixtures match what’s being promoted.</p>
<h3>Signs of Poor Maintenance</h3>
<p>A lack of upkeep indicates bigger issues with an apartment. Presenting those problems in a listing could also suggest neglect on the property management team’s part.</p>
<p>Look out for the following red flags in an apartment:</p>
<ul>
<li>Peeling, bubbling or cracking paint</li>
<li>Water damage on ceilings, floors and inside cabinets</li>
<li>Visible mold in bathrooms and near windows</li>
<li>Broken or damaged doors, cabinets, blinds and appliances</li>
<li>Loose or painted outlets</li>
<li>Exposed wiring</li>
</ul>
<h3>Lack of Transparency</h3>
<p>You may need to question the legitimacy of an apartment listing if the landlord or property manager doesn’t provide consistent communication or deflects when asked about specifics. Those behaviors could reflect the type of relationship you can expect if you decide to rent. If they refuse to do a live apartment tour or supply additional photos, you may need to reconsider, as you run the risk of encountering potentially neglected property, safety risks and hidden issues.</p>
<h2>Virtual and In-Person Tours for Apartments in Columbus, Ohio</h2>
<p>You can take a tour of <a href="https://www.ardentcommunities.com/apartments">Ardent Communities’ apartments and townhomes</a> online and in person. Our comprehensive listings include room features, ceiling heights and lots of photos so you can get a good idea of what to expect. Our expert leasing staff can accommodate same-day onsite tours and answer your questions if you’re interested in renting. <a href="https://www.ardentcommunities.com/about-our-company/contact-us">Contact us</a> for more information.</p>


Woman viewing interior of an apartment through her device

Issues to Watch for During Virtual Apartment Tours

<h2>Financial Stability with Predictable Payments</h2>
<p><a href="https://www.ardentcommunities.com/about-our-company/blog/what-renters-should-know-before-signing-lease-agreements">Once you sign a long-term lease, you lock into a set rental rate</a> that lasts until the contract expires. That predictability can help you <a href="https://www.ardentcommunities.com/about-our-company/blog/how-to-budget-and-save-for-an-apartment">budget more effectively for utilities, personal expenses and savings</a>. A long-term lease also protects you from housing market fluctuations that could result in rapid rent increases. That’s important if you reside somewhere with a growing population and high demand for living accommodations. If your landlord or property manager decides to raise your rent, you have more time to plan for that change than you would with a short-term or month-to-month lease.</p>
<h2>Security and Peace of Mind</h2>
<p>The longer you stay in an apartment, the more time you have to make the space feel like home. That sense of stability can reduce your stress level, especially when you don’t have to worry about packing, moving and finding a new place to live. You also have more freedom to explore and get to know your new community and neighbors. Signing a long-term lease can provide you with peace of mind if you work or attend school in an area, because it eliminates the hassle of relocating and changing your routine to accommodate your schedule.</p>
<h2>A Strong Tenant-Landlord Relationship</h2>
<p>Landlords often prefer long-term apartment leases because they reduce vacancy rates and the costs associated with finding new tenants. They may be more inclined to negotiate pricing and benefits if you agree to stay in your apartment for a year or more.</p>
<p>Additional benefits include:</p>
<p><strong>Trust: </strong>As a long-term tenant, you agree to uphold your end of the lease agreement for at least 12 months. That helps build trust with your landlord and allows for a smoother renting experience.</p>
<p><strong>Improved communication:</strong> You and your landlord have more time to learn each other’s preferences and communication styles, which can enhance your working relationship.</p>
<p><strong>Quality service:</strong> Maintaining positive interactions can lead to perks like prompt maintenance responses and faster service if you face unexpected issues.</p>
<p><strong>Contract flexibility:</strong> Your landlord may reward your commitment with renewal options or policy flexibility to incentivize you to stay in your apartment.</p>
<h2>Cost Savings and Lower Moving Expenses</h2>
<p>Packing supplies, moving services and transportation can make switching apartments expensive and time-consuming. You also must account for expenses associated with setting up new utilities such as cable, internet, water and electricity. Staying in the same apartment on a long-term lease allows you to save on those costs. You may have access to financial incentives or discounts, too, such as waived application fees and lower security deposits if you sign a longer lease agreement.</p>
<h2>Personalization and Comfort</h2>
<p>Imagine getting your decor just right only to have to take it down and move to a new place. When you lease long-term, you don’t have to. Since you don’t have to worry about moving out in a few weeks or months, you can invest your time in customizing your apartment. Hang pictures and artwork, bring in your favorite furniture and paint your walls (<a href="https://www.ardentcommunities.com/about-our-company/blog/6-ways-you-can-break-your-lease-without-knowing-it">if your lease permits it</a>) to create a space that reflects your unique style. Whether you prefer <a href="https://www.ardentcommunities.com/about-our-company/blog/minimalist-apartment-design-ideas-for-your-living-space">minimalism</a> or <a href="https://www.ardentcommunities.com/about-our-company/blog/creating-a-vintage-aesthetic-with-antique-apartment-decor">extravagance</a>, you have the flexibility to rearrange your apartment several times over when you sign a long-term agreement.</p>
<h2>Long-Term Leases at Ardent Communities</h2>
<p>Are you looking for a long-term apartment lease in Columbus, Ohio? Ardent Communities has a variety of single- and multi-room suites that are conveniently located near community attractions in and around downtown Columbus. View <a href="https://www.ardentcommunities.com/apartments">our locations</a> and <a href="https://www.ardentcommunities.com/about-our-company/contact-us">contact our team</a> to discuss lease terms and special deals.</p>


woman sitting on a couch in her apartment

Benefits of Renting an Apartment with a Long-Term Lease

<h2>Factors to Consider When Thinking About Renting or Buying</h2>
<p><strong>Budget:</strong> There are typically higher upfront costs and additional fees and expenses associated with buying a house. You can <a href="https://www.ardentcommunities.com/about-our-company/blog/how-to-budget-and-save-for-an-apartment">rent an apartment for a significantly lower cost</a>, which may be preferable if you don’t have funds saved for a down payment.</p>
<p><strong>Timeline:</strong> Living in an apartment offers flexibility, from short-term leases to long-term contracts, allowing you to change living accommodations as needed. If you want to lay down roots and plan to stay in one place for more than three years, buying a house may be a better option.</p>
<p><strong>Lifestyle preferences:</strong> Consider how mobile you want to be and the time you’re willing to put into maintenance and upkeep. Those preferences will influence whether you’re better suited to apartment living or home ownership.</p>
<p><strong>Pets and children: </strong>Kids and animals require space to play and grow, so it’s important to consider if you plan to have either when deciding between an apartment and a house.</p>
<p><strong>Space requirements:</strong> Do you want extra rooms, <a href="https://www.ardentcommunities.com/about-our-company/blog/apartment-bathroom-organization-and-storage-tips">storage space</a> and a yard? Are you looking for less square footage to manage? The answer to those questions will indicate which living situation is better for your needs.</p>
<h2>Pros and Cons of Renting an Apartment</h2>
<h3>Advantages of Apartment Living</h3>
<p>Renting an apartment gives you the freedom to enjoy your own space without as many responsibilities as owning a home. You have a property manager or landlord to help you <a href="https://www.ardentcommunities.com/about-our-company/blog/when-to-contact-apartment-maintenance-for-your-unit">take care of maintenance and repairs</a>, and you don’t have to worry about outdoor upkeep, either. That gives you more time to focus on enjoying your space, <a href="https://www.ardentcommunities.com/about-our-company/blog/creating-a-vintage-aesthetic-with-antique-apartment-decor">decorating</a>, exploring your community and focusing on different pursuits.</p>
<p>When you rent an apartment, you usually need to provide a security deposit and the first month’s rent, which is significantly cheaper than making a three percent down payment on a house. You can expect more consistent monthly expenses and may even have certain utilities included with your rent.</p>
<p>Here are some other perks to consider:</p>
<ul>
<li>No property taxes</li>
<li>Free amenities</li>
<li>Lease flexibility</li>
<li>No mortgage</li>
<li>Low-pressure lifestyle</li>
</ul>
<h3>Shortcomings of Apartment Living</h3>
<p>You may encounter the following issues if you choose to rent an apartment:</p>
<ul>
<li>Limited space</li>
<li>Less privacy</li>
<li>Potential rent increases</li>
<li>Limited customization</li>
<li>A lack of equity</li>
</ul>
<h2>Pros and Cons of Owning a House</h2>
<h3>Advantages of Buying a House</h3>
<p>When you own a home, each mortgage payment helps build your equity in the property. You can leverage that as an asset to finance renovations and other expenses outside your home. That can be helpful if you want to finance your education or retirement.</p>
<p>Because you own the property, you have the freedom to customize the interior and exterior of your home as you see fit. That allows you to accommodate multiple people, hobbies, storage and much more. Depending on the size of your property, you may also have room to grow if you plan to have a family.</p>
<p>Homeowners often qualify for tax deductions based on the amount they pay in mortgage interest and property taxes. And since you don’t have to worry about unexpected rent increases or lease expirations, you can take advantage of more predictable payments and account for long-term costs.</p>
<h3>Challenges of Owning a Home</h3>
<p>Keep the following in mind when you’re deciding whether you should buy a house:</p>
<ul>
<li>Additional expenses for insurance, separate utilities and repairs</li>
<li>Strong credit score</li>
<li>Debt-to-income ratio</li>
<li>Housing market fluctuations</li>
<li>More indoor and outdoor upkeep</li>
</ul>
<h2>Apartment and Townhouse Rentals in Columbus, Ohio</h2>
<p>Whether you’re looking for an apartment or townhouse in or around Columbus, Ohio, Ardent Communities can help you find the perfect accommodations. We offer a variety of single- and multi-bedroom suites that are ideal for solo renters, roommates and families. <a href="https://www.ardentcommunities.com/apartments">Review our properties</a> and <a href="https://www.ardentcommunities.com/about-our-company/contact-us">contact us</a> to schedule a tour.</p>


Renting an Apartment vs. Buying a House: Which is Right for You?

<h2>Why Choose Powell, Ohio?</h2>
<p>Powell’s population ranges from 14,000 to 15,000 people, making it a smaller, tight-knit community. It’s a thriving place to live due to its proximity to growing industries and job opportunities. The median monthly rent varies from $1,000 to $2,000.</p>
<p>Olentangy Local School District is Ohio’s fourth-largest public school system and has received a five-star rating several years in a row. There are also a variety of private schools in Powell, including The Compass School and Worthing Christian Powell.</p>
<h2>Location, Location, Location</h2>
<p>A short 25-minute drive from downtown Columbus, this suburb offers access to big-city attractions while maintaining a small-town atmosphere where you can truly make yourself at home. Powell is near the I-270 business loop, which will get you virtually anywhere in Columbus. If you want to explore the downtown area after work or grab brunch with friends, you’ll have a variety of efficient routes to enjoy restaurants, clubs and shops. Powell is also just east of the Scioto River and the surrounding parks and nature reserves.</p>
<h3>Modern Apartment Amenities</h3>
<p>There are several apartment communities in Powell that make renting a luxury experience. You can live comfortably without the responsibility of owning a home, paying property taxes and managing a yard.</p>
<p>The following Ardent Communities’ properties are packed with features and amenities:</p>
<p><a href="https://www.ardentcommunities.com/apartments/powell/residences-at-golf-village"><strong>The Residences at Golf Village</strong></a><strong>:</strong> In addition to the spacious one- and two-bedroom units, the Residences at Golf Village also feature a pool, sundeck and cabana, private patios and balconies and individual garages. This is also a pet-friendly complex, so your furry friends are welcome.</p>
<p><a href="https://www.ardentcommunities.com/apartments/powell/nolan-reserve"><strong>Nolan Reserve</strong></a><strong>:</strong> This location offers unique amenities that set it apart from the average apartment complex. Enjoy the private courtyard, play bocce ball or cornhole, break a sweat in the indoor and outdoor fitness areas or take a swim in the resort-style pool.</p>
<p><a href="https://www.ardentcommunities.com/apartments/powell/rosewood-village"><strong>Rosewood Village</strong></a><strong>:</strong> Once you’ve settled into your new home at Rosewood Village, you can explore the community center where you’ll find resident cyber stations, a coffee bar and a lounge area. During the summer, the pool, firepit and outdoor kitchen make great spaces to host guests.</p>
<h3>Outdoor Adventures</h3>
<p><strong>O’Shaughnessy Reservoir Park:</strong> <a href="https://columbusrecparks.com/parks/oshaughnessy-reservoir/">This 1,281-acre reservoir</a> is located in O’Shaughnessy Nature Preserve and Jeffry Scioto Park. There are public boat docks and 18 miles of shoreline to explore.</p>
<p><strong>Highbanks:</strong> <a href="https://www.metroparks.net/parks-and-trails/highbanks/">The park</a> is renowned for its 100-foot-high shale bluff, which offers spectacular views of the Olentangy State Scenic River. You can bike, canoe, cross-country ski and fish.</p>
<p><strong>Liberty Park:</strong> <a href="https://www.libertytwp.org/Facilities/Facility/Details/Liberty-Park-2">This local park</a> has miles of trails, three playgrounds and several soccer and baseball/softball fields, basketball courts and a fishing pond.</p>
<h3>Nearby Attractions</h3>
<p><strong>Columbus Zoo and Aquarium:</strong> <a href="https://www.columbuszoo.org/">The zoo</a> is one of Columbus’s best attractions and is home to hundreds of exotic animals. They also host seasonal events for all ages.</p>
<p><strong>Zoombezi Bay:</strong> This <a href="https://www.zoombezibay.com/">outdoor waterpark</a> is located right next to the zoo and is a five-minute drive from the heart of Powell.</p>
<p><strong>ZipZone Outdoor Adventures:</strong> This <a href="https://zipzonetours.com/">aerial adventure park</a> includes zipline tours and tree-top obstacle courses.</p>
<p><strong>Olentangy Caverns:</strong> On the northern edge of town, <a href="https://www.olentangycaverns.com/">Olentangy Caverns</a> boasts a variety of attractions, including cave tours, gem mining, mini golf and a petting zoo.</p>
<h3>Cafes, Bars and Restaurants</h3>
<p><strong>Local Roots:</strong> The dishes are made from locally sourced goods from the owner’s family farm outside Powell. In addition to a variety of food and drinks, <a href="https://www.localrootspowell.com/">Local Roots</a> also hosts live music.</p>
<p><strong>Ill Mannered Brewing Company:</strong> Sample local food trucks while you sip on award-winning beer on the patio at <a href="http://www.illmanneredbeer.com/">Ill Mannered Brewing Company</a>.</p>
<p><strong>Powell Bar &amp; Grill: </strong><a href="https://www.powellbarandgrill.com/">This local staple</a> offers classic bar fare, including burgers, wings and pizza. Stop by on Thursdays for trivia night.</p>
<h3>Community and Seasonal Events</h3>
<p><a href="https://www.cityofpowell.us/Visitors/Events"><strong>Powell Festival</strong></a><strong>:</strong> The two-day festival features live music, food trucks, art vendors and entertainment during the summer.</p>
<p><strong>Candy by the Carload:</strong> Organizations and companies come together each year to host this daytime trick-or-treat event.</p>
<p><strong>Holidays in Powell:</strong> The holiday season begins with live music and a tree-lighting ceremony in downtown Powell.</p>
<h2>Find Your Apartment in Powell, Ohio</h2>
<p>If you’re looking for apartments for rent in Powell, Ohio, Ardent Communities has the living communities for you. We offer spacious units, onsite amenities and convenient access to local attractions. <a href="https://www.ardentcommunities.com/apartments/powell">Contact each location</a> to schedule a tour and learn about move-in specials.</p>


The Perks of Renting in Powell, Ohio

Our Blog

Explore Powell Apartments

<p>Discover the charm of one of Central Ohio’s most desirable towns—Powell. Our communities offer modern living with access to top-rated Olentangy Local Schools, local dining, boutique shopping, and beautiful parks right outside your door.</p>
<p>Click into each community to explore floor plans and see our weekly specials.</p>
