<h2>Crowd-Pleasing Appetizers to Kick Off the Game</h2>
<p>Set the tone for your gathering with these tasty starters:</p>
<p><strong>Soft pretzels</strong></p>
<p>Ingredients:</p>
<ul>
<li>2 ¼ teaspoon instant yeast</li>
<li>1 tablespoon granulated sugar</li>
<li>1 ½ cups lukewarm water</li>
<li>1 tablespoon melted unsalted butter</li>
<li>1 tablespoon salt</li>
<li>3 ¾ cups all-purpose flour</li>
<li>Coarse salt or sea salt</li>
<li>½ cup baking soda</li>
<li>9 cups water</li>
</ul>
<p>Whisk yeast and sugar into warm water until frothy, then cover and let sit for one minute. Mix in butter, salt and flour until the dough is tacky. Knead in a mixer or by hand for three to five minutes, adding flour if the dough sticks. Cover and let it rest for 15 minutes, preheat your oven to 475⁰ and line baking sheets with parchment paper.</p>
<p>Combine baking soda and nine cups of water, bring it to a boil and allow it to cool to a lukewarm temperature. Section your dough into eight pieces and roll them out into ¾-inch ropes. Shape them into classic pretzel knots or cut them into pieces and soak in the baking soda bath for two minutes. Lay them on your baking sheet and sprinkle with salt while they’re wet. Bake for up to nine minutes or until they’re golden brown.</p>
<p><strong>Sliders</strong></p>
<p>Ingredients:</p>
<ul>
<li>1 pack of mini burger buns or Hawaiian rolls</li>
<li>2 pounds ground beef</li>
<li>1 medium onion</li>
<li>½ teaspoon olive oil</li>
<li>½ teaspoon garlic powder</li>
<li>½ teaspoon salt</li>
<li>½ teaspoon black pepper</li>
<li>Sliced or shredded cheese</li>
</ul>
<p>Preheat your oven to 350⁰ and grease a baking sheet. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium to high heat before adding the onion and ground beef. Sprinkle salt, pepper and garlic powder into the mixture while you brown the beef. Tilt the skillet to drain excess fat into the trash. Never empty grease into your sink. Cut the buns in half and line the lower half with cheese. Cover with ground beef and top with more cheese before placing the tops of the buns. Brush with melted butter and bake for 12 to 15 minutes.</p>
<p><strong>Popcorn bars</strong></p>
<p>Ingredients:</p>
<ul>
<li>12 cups popcorn</li>
<li>1 ½ cups M&amp;Ms</li>
<li>1 cup peanuts</li>
<li>8 ounces mini marshmallows</li>
<li>¼ cup butter</li>
<li>¼ cup canola oil</li>
<li>1 cup vanilla extract</li>
<li>¼ teaspoon salt</li>
</ul>
<p>Combine M&amp;Ms, peanuts and popcorn in a large bowl and set aside. Place the mini marshmallows, butter and oil in a pot and mix over medium heat until the ingredients melt. Remove from the heat and add vanilla extract and salt, pouring the mixture over the dry ingredients. Spread over a greased baking sheet and let it set for a few hours before cutting it into bars.</p>
<p><strong>Nachos</strong></p>
<p>Ingredients:</p>
<ul>
<li>1 pound ground beef</li>
<li>12-ounce can diced tomatoes</li>
<li>1 cup corn</li>
<li>¾ cup instant rice</li>
<li>1 package of taco seasoning</li>
<li>½ cup water</li>
<li>½ teaspoon salt</li>
<li>1 cup shredded cheese</li>
<li>Tortilla chips</li>
</ul>
<p>Brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat for six to eight minutes, then drain the fat. Stir in the tomatoes, corn, water, rice, seasoning and salt and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat and simmer until the rice is tender, mixing intermittently. Once you’ve removed the skillet from the heat, sprinkle in the cheese and cover until it’s melted. Divvy up your tortilla chips on plates and spoon the beef mixture on top.</p>
<h2>Ballpark-Inspired Mains You Can Make</h2>
<p>Bring ballpark classics to your apartment with these recipes:</p>
<p><strong>Brats</strong></p>
<p>Ingredients:</p>
<ul>
<li>Uncooked bratwurst</li>
<li>3, 12-ounce cans of beer</li>
<li>1 large onion, diced</li>
<li>2 tablespoons fennel seeds</li>
<li>Bratwurst buns</li>
</ul>
<p>Place the bratwurst, beer, onion and fennel seeds in a skillet. Cover and simmer for eight to 10 minutes, then drain the liquid. Grill the brats covered over medium heat for eight minutes or until browned, turning occasionally.</p>
<p><strong>Chili dogs</strong></p>
<p>Ingredients:</p>
<ul>
<li>1 pound ground beef</li>
<li>15 ounces tomato sauce</li>
<li>½ cup ketchup</li>
<li>1/3 cup water</li>
<li>2 ½ teaspoons chili powder</li>
<li>½ teaspoon salt</li>
<li>½ teaspoon black pepper</li>
<li>½ teaspoon sugar</li>
<li>½ teaspoon onion powder</li>
<li>Dash of Worcestershire sauce</li>
</ul>
<p>Mix ground beef, tomato sauce, ketchup, water, chili powder, salt, pepper, sugar, onion powder and Worcestershire sauce in a skillet. Break up the beef and bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat. The chili should thicken in about 20 minutes. Drizzle over hots and top with cheese, jalapenos, onions or sour cream.</p>
<h2>Kid-Friendly Options for the Whole Team</h2>
<p>Try these finger foods for younger guests:</p>
<p><strong>Corn dog bites</strong></p>
<p>Ingredients:</p>
<ul>
<li>1, 16-package of hot dogs</li>
<li>1 cup all-purpose flour</li>
<li>1 cup yellow cornmeal</li>
<li>½ cup sugar</li>
<li>2 teaspoons baking powder</li>
<li>1 teaspoon salt</li>
<li>1 cup milk</li>
<li>1 egg</li>
<li>¼ cup vegetable oil</li>
</ul>
<p>Preheat your oven to 425⁰ and grease two 24-cup mini muffin tins. Whisk flour, cornmeal, baking powder and salt into a bowl. Mix the milk, egg and vegetable oil until the batter is smooth, then fill each cup. Cut the hot dogs into eight pieces, placing each in a cup and covering with more batter. Bake for about eight minutes or until the muffins are browned.</p>
<p><strong>Mini pizzas</strong></p>
<p>Ingredients:</p>
<ul>
<li>1 package of pizza dough</li>
<li>2 tablespoons butter, melted</li>
<li>½ teaspoon garlic powder</li>
<li>½ teaspoon salt</li>
<li>1 cup pizza sauce</li>
<li>1 ½ cups mozzarella cheese, shredded</li>
<li>Optional toppings: Pepperoni, olives, ham, sausage, spinach, mushrooms, tomatoes, basil</li>
</ul>
<p>Preheat your oven to 425⁰ and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or grease it with cooking spray. Roll out the pizza dough on a floured surface and cut into small circles with a cookie cutter or the rim of a glass. Combine the melted butter, garlic powder and salt before brushing the mixture onto the dough. Spread a few teaspoons of pizza sauce onto the circles and cover with mozzarella cheese and toppings. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes.</p>
<h2>Easy-to-Make Mocktails and Beverages</h2>
<p>Top off your baseball-inspired spread with refreshing drinks:</p>
<p><strong>Soda floats</strong></p>
<p>Ingredients:</p>
<ul>
<li>Ice cream: Vanilla, chocolate, sherbert</li>
<li>Soda: Cola, root beer, apple cider, cream soda, orange soda</li>
<li>Toppings: Whipped cream, chocolate sauce, caramel syrup, cherries, nuts, coconut shavings, sprinkles</li>
</ul>
<p>Place a few scoops of ice cream into a frozen glass or plastic cup. Pour your choice of soda over the ice cream, allowing the fizz to settle. Add your choice of toppings.</p>
<p><strong>Lemonade iced tea</strong></p>
<p>Ingredients:</p>
<ul>
<li>7 cups cold water</li>
<li>2, 10-ounce packages of black tea</li>
<li>¼ teaspoon baking soda</li>
<li>½ cup granulated sugar</li>
<li>½ cup fresh lemon juice</li>
</ul>
<p>Bring five cups of water to a boil, then remove from the heat. Steep the tea bags in the water for 10 minutes, then discard. Pour the liquid into a pitcher, stirring in two more cups of water, sugar and lemon juice. Allow the sugar to dissolve before serving over ice.</p>
<h2>Make Your Baseball Party a Hit</h2>
<p>With proper planning and preparation, you can enjoy great food and even better company. Ardent Communities has a variety of apartments and townhouses around Columbus, Ohio, that are <a href="https://www.ardentcommunities.com/about-our-company/blog/how-to-host-a-dinner-party-in-a-small-apartment">perfect for hosting guests</a>. <a href="https://www.ardentcommunities.com/apartments">View our locations</a> and <a href="https://www.ardentcommunities.com/about-our-company/contact-us">contact us</a> to schedule a tour.</p>


Easy-to-Make Baseball Party Food Ideas

<p>A well-written lease does not just protect the landlord. It protects you too. It sets clear expectations for everything from rent payments to maintenance requests. By knowing exactly what is in your <a href="https://www.ardentcommunities.com/about-our-company/blog/short-term-vs-long-term-leases-which-is-right-for-me">apartment rental lease agreement</a> before signing, you can make informed decisions, plan your finances accurately and start your tenancy with confidence.</p>
<h2>Lease Term Lengths: Know the Commitment</h2>
<ul>
<li><strong>Short-term leases</strong>: Typically lasting three to six months, short-term leases offer flexibility if you are unsure how long you will stay. However, they often come with higher monthly rent compared to longer agreements, so you will need to weigh convenience against cost.</li>
<li><strong>Long-term leases</strong>: Usually one year or more, long-term leases provide stability and often lock in your rent rate for the duration. This can help with budgeting, but breaking the lease early could lead to hefty penalties.</li>
<li><strong>Month-to-month leases:</strong> These offer maximum flexibility, allowing you to leave with minimal notice, usually 30 days. The trade-off is that landlords can adjust the rent more frequently, and you could be asked to vacate with short notice.</li>
</ul>
<h2>Understand Rent, Fees and What’s Included</h2>
<p>Your monthly rent is just one part of your total housing cost. Ask whether utilities like water, gas and electricity are included, or if you will be billed separately. Some apartments bundle certain amenities, such as internet or trash removal, into the rent while others do not.</p>
<p>It is also important to ask about additional fees. Pet fees, parking charges, storage rentals and even administrative costs can add up quickly. Clarify these upfront so you can budget realistically and avoid feeling blindsided after signing your apartment lease agreement.</p>
<h2>Security Deposits and Refund Policies</h2>
<p>Most landlords require a security deposit, often equal to one month’s rent, before move-in. This money is held to cover unpaid rent, damages beyond normal wear and tear or <a href="https://www.ardentcommunities.com/about-our-company/blog/tips-for-deep-cleaning-your-apartment">cleaning costs</a> after you move out.</p>
<p>To maximize your chances of getting the full amount back, document the condition of the apartment when you move in. Photos and written notes work best. Follow all cleaning and repair requirements in your lease when moving out and request a walkthrough with your landlord to address any concerns before your deposit is processed.</p>
<h2>Maintenance Responsibilities and Procedures</h2>
<p>Landlords are generally responsible for keeping the property safe and livable, which includes repairing major appliances, plumbing and electrical systems.</p>
<p>For renters, it is important to know how to:</p>
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.ardentcommunities.com/about-our-company/blog/when-to-contact-apartment-maintenance-for-your-unit">Submit maintenance requests</a> (online portal, email or phone) and keep a record of them.</li>
<li>Report urgent issues, such as gas leaks or flooding, and understand the emergency contact process.</li>
<li>Handle minor fixes you may be responsible for, like replacing light bulbs or air filters, as outlined in your lease.</li>
</ul>
<h2>Guest and Pet Policies That May Affect You</h2>
<ul>
<li><strong>Overnight guest limits</strong>: Some leases limit how many nights a guest can stay without landlord approval. Exceeding this limit could result in warnings or additional charges.</li>
<li><strong>Subleasing restrictions</strong>: Many apartment rental lease agreements prohibit subleasing without written consent. Violating this rule could lead to eviction or financial penalties.</li>
<li><strong>Pet rules and breed limitations</strong>: Even pet-friendly buildings may restrict certain breeds, sizes or the number of pets allowed. Check for additional pet deposits or monthly pet rent before bringing an animal home.</li>
</ul>
<h2>Early Termination Clauses and Lease Break Fees</h2>
<p>Life can change unexpectedly. New jobs, family needs or other circumstances may require you to move before your lease is up. Early termination clauses explain the steps and costs involved if that happens.</p>
<p>Some landlords require a set fee, others may ask for continued rent until a new tenant is found, and some may enforce both. Reading and understanding this section before signing can save you from financial stress if you ever need to <a href="https://www.ardentcommunities.com/about-our-company/blog/6-ways-you-can-break-your-lease-without-knowing-it">break your lease agreement</a>.</p>
<h2>Signing with Confidence: Know Your Lease, Know Your Rights</h2>
<p>An apartment lease agreement is one of the most important documents you will sign as a renter. It defines your living experience and sets the tone for your relationship with your landlord. By understanding each section, including rent, fees, policies and responsibilities, you can protect your rights, avoid misunderstandings and feel secure in your decision.</p>
<p>Before signing, ask questions, request clarifications in writing and take the time to review every detail. Knowledge is your best tool for starting your tenancy on the right foot.</p>


What Renters Should Know Before Signing Lease Agreements

<p>So what do we mean by “positive energy”? In simple terms, it’s the feeling you get when a space is clean, calm, and comfortable. You breathe easier. You focus better. You just feel good. It’s not magic, and you don’t have to be an expert in feng shui to make it happen. With a few thoughtful updates, you can turn your apartment into a space that truly supports your well-being.</p>
<p>Let’s walk through some practical ways to bring more positive energy into your home.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<h2>Declutter Your Space to Clear Your Mind</h2>
<p>If your apartment feels chaotic, clutter might be the culprit. It’s not just about how a space looks. Physical mess often leads to mental stress. When every surface is covered and things don’t have a place, it can be hard to relax or even think clearly.</p>
<p>Start small. Focus on one area that tends to attract clutter—maybe your kitchen counter, entryway, or desk. Sort through what you use regularly, what you love, and what you can let go. You don’t need to aim for perfection. Just clearing out what’s unnecessary can create instant breathing room and help shift the energy in your space.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<h2>Use Natural Light to Uplift Your Mood</h2>
<p>Natural light does more than brighten a room. It actually affects how you feel. Studies have shown that exposure to sunlight can improve mood, boost energy, and even help regulate sleep. For apartment living, where space is often limited, using natural light well can make a big difference.</p>
<p>Keep blinds or curtains open during the day to let in as much light as possible. If privacy is a concern, try sheer curtains that diffuse sunlight while still maintaining your comfort. Mirrors are also a great tool. They reflect light and can help smaller rooms feel more spacious and vibrant.</p>
<p>If your apartment doesn’t get much natural light, no worries. Consider adding warm-toned LED lamps or a sunlight-mimicking light therapy lamp to brighten up your space.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<h2>Add Greenery for a Breath of Fresh Air</h2>
<p>Bringing in houseplants is one of the easiest ways to refresh the energy in your apartment. They not only improve air quality but also help create a more peaceful, grounded environment.</p>
<p>Here are a few benefits of adding greenery indoors:</p>
<ul>
<li>Plants can help reduce stress and support relaxation</li>
<li>Certain varieties naturally purify the air</li>
<li>They add color, texture, and life to your décor</li>
<li>Caring for plants can become a calming, rewarding routine</li>
<li>Even small plants can make a big impact in tight spaces</li>
</ul>
<p>If you’re new to houseplants, start with low-maintenance options like snake plants, pothos, or peace lilies. They’re hardy, forgiving, and thrive in a variety of light conditions.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<h2>Incorporate Scent and Sound for Balance</h2>
<p>Positive energy isn’t just about what you can see. It’s also influenced by scent and sound. These senses shape your experience in a space and can help you relax, recharge, or focus.</p>
<p>Try incorporating some of the following:</p>
<ul>
<li>Essential oils in a diffuser. Lavender, citrus, or eucalyptus are great starting points</li>
<li>Scented candles or incense with calming fragrances. Just be sure to follow your apartment’s rules and stay safe</li>
<li>Pet-friendly options if you live with animals. Some oils and incense can be harmful to cats or dogs</li>
<li>Background music, such as soft instrumentals, lo-fi playlists, or nature sounds</li>
<li>A small indoor water fountain for a soothing, natural element</li>
</ul>
<p>Scent and sound are personal, so experiment to find what works best for you. The goal is to create an atmosphere that helps you feel centered and at ease.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<h2>Maintain the Energy: Clean Regularly and Intentionally</h2>
<p>Once you’ve put in the effort to clear, brighten, and balance your space, the key is keeping it that way. That doesn’t mean deep cleaning every weekend. It just means creating habits that support a healthy, positive environment over time.</p>
<p>Try these simple routines:</p>
<ul>
<li>Make your bed each morning. It sets the tone for the day</li>
<li>Wipe down surfaces regularly, especially in the kitchen and bathroom</li>
<li>Open a window when weather allows to let in fresh air</li>
<li>Do a quick 10-minute tidy-up each evening so clutter doesn’t pile up</li>
<li>Use your favorite scent or playlist while cleaning to make it feel less like a chore</li>
</ul>
<p>Taking care of your space is really about taking care of yourself. The more intention you put into your environment, the more it will give back to you through calm, focus, and that unmistakable sense of comfort when you walk in the door.</p>


Woman enjoying a cup of coffee in her apartment

How to Create Positive Energy in Your Apartment

<p>The short answer is that most applications are processed within 24 to 72 hours. However, every situation is different. A few key factors can influence how quickly things move, including your credit, references and how quickly you submit all the required documents.</p>
<p>Whether you’re applying for your first apartment or making a move across town, it helps to know what landlords are looking for and what you can do to speed up the process. Let’s walk through what to expect and how to set yourself up for success.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<h2>Key Factors That Impact Approval Time</h2>
<p>Getting approved for an apartment depends on how easy it is for the leasing team to verify your information. A complete, well-prepared application is more likely to get a fast response.</p>
<p>Here are a few common things that can either speed up or slow down the process:</p>
<ul>
<li><strong>Credit history</strong>: A good credit score shows you pay bills on time and manage money responsibly. If your credit report is frozen or contains late payments, the landlord may need to ask for more details or request a co-signer.</li>
<li><strong>Rental history and references</strong>: Property managers often contact your previous landlords to ask about your payment history and how well you followed your lease. If your references are hard to reach or don’t respond quickly, it could delay the process.</li>
<li><strong>Income verification</strong>: Most communities require you to earn three times the monthly rent. Verifying your employment and income helps show that you can comfortably afford your new place. If pay stubs or other documents are missing, the leasing team may need to follow up.</li>
<li><strong>Missing or incomplete application information</strong>: Accidentally leaving fields blank or entering incorrect contact info can hold up your approval. Double-check everything before you hit submit.</li>
<li><strong>Time of day or week</strong>: Submitting your application earlier in the week can help speed things up. If you apply late on a Friday or during a holiday weekend, the review process likely won’t start until the next business day.</li>
</ul>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<h2>Average Timeline for Apartment Approval</h2>
<p>In most cases, you can expect to hear back within one to three business days after submitting your completed application. Some apartment approvals happen within a few hours if everything checks out right away. Others may take a little longer if additional documentation is needed or if there’s a high volume of applications.</p>
<p>If it’s been more than three business days and you haven’t heard back, it’s okay to follow up with the leasing office. A quick check-in shows you’re serious and helps you stay informed about where things stand.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<h2>Documents You Need to Speed Things Up</h2>
<p>The more organized you are before applying, the easier it is for the leasing team to process your application. Make sure you have the following documents ready:</p>
<ul>
<li><strong>Photo ID</strong>: A government-issued ID, such as a driver’s license or passport, is required to verify your identity and run a background check.</li>
<li><strong>Proof of income</strong>: Most landlords want to see at least two or three recent pay stubs. If you’re starting a new job, an offer letter works too. For self-employed applicants, bank statements or tax returns can help verify income.</li>
<li><strong>Rental references</strong>: Contact information for your current or past landlord can speed up the approval process. Make sure your references know to expect a call or email.</li>
<li><strong>Employment information</strong>: Be ready to share your employer’s name, your position and how long you’ve worked there. Some properties may also request your supervisor’s contact information for verification.</li>
<li><strong>Co-signer documents (if applicable)</strong>: If you need a co-signer, they’ll also need to provide ID, proof of income and possibly undergo a credit check. Having this ready early can help avoid delays.</li>
</ul>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<h2>Common Reasons for Application Denial</h2>
<p>No one wants to hear they&#8217;re not getting approved for an apartment, but it’s helpful to understand why it can happen. Knowing what to avoid may help improve your chances next time.</p>
<p>Here are a few of the most common reasons:</p>
<ul>
<li>Low credit score or negative credit history</li>
<li>Insufficient income to meet rental requirements</li>
<li>Incomplete or inaccurate application details</li>
<li>Previous evictions or lease violations</li>
<li>Unverifiable employment or income</li>
<li>A criminal history that violates community policies</li>
</ul>
<p>If you’re concerned about any of these issues, consider speaking with the leasing team before applying. In some cases, providing extra documentation or using a co-signer can help you move forward.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<h2>Plan Ahead for a Smooth Move-In</h2>
<p>Getting approved is just one step in your move-in process. Once you’re accepted, you’ll likely need to pay a security deposit, schedule a move-in date and sign your lease. Planning ahead can make this transition easier and less stressful.</p>
<p>Here are a few quick tips:</p>
<ul>
<li>Have funds available for your deposit and first month’s rent</li>
<li>Schedule movers or ask friends and family to help early</li>
<li>Set up your utilities and renter’s insurance in advance</li>
<li>Make sure your application status is finalized before giving notice to your current landlord</li>
</ul>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<h2>Move-In Ready Apartments in Columbus, OH</h2>
<p>If you’re looking for a new place to call home, Ardent Communities offers a wide variety of <a href="https://www.ardentcommunities.com/apartments">apartments and townhomes</a> throughout Columbus and Central Ohio. From spacious floorplans to resort-style amenities, our communities are designed to fit your lifestyle.</p>
<p>Our leasing team is here to help guide you through the process and answer any questions you may have. Browse our locations, check availability and <a href="https://www.ardentcommunities.com/about-our-company/contact-us">schedule a tour</a> today. We’re excited to help you find the perfect place to call home.</p>


How Long Does it Take to Get Approved for an Apartment?

<h2>Respect Pool Hours and Noise Levels</h2>
<p>Most communities display pool hours near the facility or in the lease agreement. Adhering to those time limits allows staff to complete cleaning and maintenance without disruption, so you can enjoy the pool all summer. Entering outside of designated hours could be considered trespassing and result in legal ramifications.</p>
<p>Because it’s a shared amenity, it’s important to keep noise to a reasonable level. Playing loud music, roughhousing and hosting large groups of people can be disruptive and make it difficult for others to have a pleasant experience.</p>
<h2>Wear Proper Attire and Practice Good Hygiene</h2>
<p>Be conscious of your attire if you visit the pool. The following may be deemed inappropriate:</p>
<ul>
<li>Thong bikinis</li>
<li>Sheer bathing suits</li>
<li>Speedos</li>
<li>Undergarments</li>
</ul>
<p>Infants and toddlers should wear appropriate swim diapers to prevent accidents and unsanitary conditions. Bring a set of water wings or a life jacket if your child is still learning to swim to keep them safe and comfortable.</p>
<p>Rinse off or shower before hopping in the pool. Doing so makes for a cleaner swimming environment and helps reduce sunscreen, lotion and oil buildup. If you do apply spray or lotion, wait for the product to absorb into your skin to avoid leaving residue in the water. Those chemicals can damage the pool over time and leave surfaces feeling slippery.</p>
<p>Don’t go swimming if you have open wounds or feel ill to protect yourself from infection and reduce the spread of germs.</p>
<h2>Host Guests Responsibly</h2>
<p>Review your lease agreement or talk with your landlord about guest rules. Some communities limit the number of visitors to allow everyone equal access to the pool. Overcrowding can be a safety hazard, especially if people have been drinking.</p>
<p>If you bring guests, limit the length of time you spend poolside so your neighbors can lounge or swim, too. You shouldn’t let guests visit your apartment’s pool without you and never share your key or access code with strangers. Report any suspicious activity to your <a href="https://www.ardentcommunities.com/about-our-company/blog/4-reasons-to-find-an-apartment-community-with-onsite-management">landlord or property team</a> as soon as possible.</p>
<h2>Share Pool Furniture and Amenities</h2>
<p><strong>Sharing space:</strong> Whether you’re there to unwind or have fun, be mindful of others’ space when visiting your community pool. Not everyone wants to get splashed by a cannonball or jostled by horseplay. Smoking is usually prohibited in communal spaces, so move away from the pool and sundeck if you choose to light up.</p>
<p><strong>Reserving furniture:</strong> It’s acceptable to place your belongings on a few spots for yourself and others, but don’t call dibs on half the seats. Limit yourself to a couple of seats or ask to share a table with your neighbors.</p>
<p><strong>Cleaning up:</strong> Littering is not only unpleasant but unsafe, as well. Dispose of wrappers, food and beverages. Don’t bring glass containers as they cause damage and injury if broken. Take inflatables and pool toys back to your apartment when you leave.</p>
<h2>Inquire About Pool Pet Policies</h2>
<p><a href="https://www.ardentcommunities.com/about-our-company/blog/a-guide-to-apartment-living-with-pets">If you live with a pet</a>, it’s normal to want to bring them along on your adventures.</p>
<p>However, even a pet-friendly community may not allow animals at the pool for the following reasons:</p>
<ul>
<li>Hair and dander can clog filters and cause allergic reactions.</li>
<li>Pets can carry bacteria and parasites.</li>
<li>Animals might relieve themselves in and around the pool.</li>
<li>They can pose a safety risk while running or swimming.</li>
<li>Some pets might get aggressive if overwhelmed or stressed.</li>
</ul>
<p>Talk with your management team about service animal policies and where to keep your pet near the pool.</p>
<h2>Enjoy Apartments with Pools in Columbus, Ohio</h2>
<p>Ardent Communities has a variety of <a href="https://www.ardentcommunities.com/apartments?amenity=pool">apartments and townhouses that feature sparkling resort-style pools</a>. They’re the perfect spot to spend the summer and get to know your neighbors during poolside events. Check out <a href="https://www.ardentcommunities.com/apartments">our locations</a> and <a href="https://www.ardentcommunities.com/about-our-company/contact-us">contact us</a> to schedule a tour.</p>


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