How To Work From Home in Your Apartment
The COVID-19 pandemic of 2020 gave rise to remote and hybrid work, which still remains popular several years after it became the “new normal.” A 2023 Forbes article found that a staggering 98% of workers surveyed would prefer to work remotely at least some of the time. While work-from-home and hybrid roles have several benefits […]
The COVID-19 pandemic of 2020 gave rise to remote and hybrid work, which still remains popular several years after it became the “new normal.” A 2023 Forbes article found that a staggering 98% of workers surveyed would prefer to work remotely at least some of the time.
While work-from-home and hybrid roles have several benefits like increased flexibility and reduced commute time, remote work also presents its unique challenges. Throughout this blog, we’ll provide helpful tips for working from home in an apartment with advice for distraction management, setting up a workspace, and more.
Creating an Apartment Workspace
A vital part of working from home is keeping your living and working spaces as separate as possible. Avoid working in your living room or on your bed, as it can be harder to focus. Instead, set up a space dedicated to working, like a home office or a working nook.
How to Set Up An Office or Desk Nook
Setting up an apartment workspace doesn’t require an entire spare room. Instead, you can create an area for working from home within your existing space. Just select a nook or corner where you can fit a desk, computer, cozy chair, and anything else you need to get work done. We recommend grabbing the following supplies for an apartment workspace or office nook:
- Desk or small table to work on
- Comfy chair, yoga ball, or other seat
- Computer accessories like a mouse and keyboard
- Web camera or headset if you’ll be in video calls
- Personal touches like photos to make it feel more inviting
Work From Home Tips For Focusing
Using The Pomodoro Method
Struggling to focus isn’t a problem unique to working from home, but many find it harder to stay focused when they aren’t in an office space. Many students and workers find the Pomodoro Method especially helpful for focusing and productivity enhancement.
To follow the method, you’ll need a stopwatch or the clock on your phone or computer. Concentrate on your work for 25 minutes without stopping, then take a five-minute break. Repeat this cycle four times and then take a longer, 15 or 30-minute break. For the best results, create a to-do list to follow for those focused 25-minute stretches.
Use Headphones For Distraction Management
Avoiding distractions can be especially difficult when you’re working from home, as your pets, family, video game consoles, and fully-stocked kitchen can easily lure you away from your work. Loud background noise can be one of the most distracting stimuli while working remotely, so invest in noise canceling headphones to manage distractions. However, stick to instrumental tunes like classical music so you aren’t distracted by the lyrics.
Maintaining Work-Life Balance While WFH
Finding work-life balance has become increasingly important to workers, but it can be hard to maintain when you work at home. To keep work and home separate, set concrete working hours and stick to them. When your day ends, stop answering emails and working on projects. Take caution to avoid completing chores and housekeeping tasks during your working hours as well.
Finding Your “Third Place”
Psychologists refer to third places as locations that facilitate social interaction outside of the people you live or work with. Finding your third place is especially important when you work from home and don’t experience as much in-person social interaction. A third place often has familiar faces that contribute to the development of a sense of community.
Third places include gyms, exercise studios, libraries, art studios, churches, recreational sports leagues, and cafes. They are often spaces associated with personal hobbies and interests, though anywhere can work if it suits you.
Create The Perfect Apartment Workspace in a HILLS Apartment
Living in an apartment you love will make working from home much easier. HILLS Properties offers comfortable, modern apartments equipped with all of the features you need to live happily. Many of our apartment communities also include a resident clubhouse and other community spaces where you can get out of your apartment and continue working remotely. Browse our upscale apartment communities today and find your new apartment home.
![Is It Hard To Get Approved For An Apartment? Alt text: A property manager handing keys to a new apartment resident. Searching for a new apartment is exciting, but the application process can also bring up a lot of questions. Here’s what you need to know about how to get approved for an apartment, plus tips for improving your chances and what to expect along the way. [H2] What Do Apartments Look for During the Approval Process? Each apartment community has its leasing criteria, but there are a few standard factors most landlords and property managers consider when reviewing your application: ● Income. Most communities require that your monthly income is two and a half to three times the rent. ● Credit check . A good credit score shows you’ve handled past obligations responsibly. But if your credit isn’t perfect, don’t panic—many communities are flexible and offer options for renters with lower scores. ● Rental history. A clean rental history with no evictions, lease breaks, or serious complaints can work strongly in your favor. ● Background check. Landlords may conduct background checks to ensure the safety of the community. ● Employment verification. Proof of stable employment or consistent income is key to approval. If you’re wondering how hard it is to get an apartment, it comes down to how well you meet these criteria—and how proactive you are in preparing your application. [H2] How To Get Approved For An Apartment: Five Helpful Tips If you want to boost your chances of a successful application, here are a few practical steps to take. [H3] 1. Check Your Credit in Advance Before applying, review your credit report to spot any errors or issues. If you’re concerned about a low score, consider offering a co-signer or a larger security deposit. [H3] 2. Gather Key Documents Ahead of Time Most properties will ask for the following: ● Recent pay stubs or proof of income ● Bank statements ● Photo ID ● Employer contact info Being prepared with this paperwork can speed up the apartment approval process. [H3] 3. Be Honest on Your Application Lying about income, rental history, or credit score can result in an automatic denial. Being up front gives property managers the chance to work with you on alternative solutions. [H3] 4. Budget Wisely Know what you can comfortably afford. If rent is more than 30% of your income, consider looking for something more budget-friendly or getting a roommate. [H3] 5. Ask for Help Getting Approved for an Apartment Many communities, especially those like HILLS Properties, have experienced leasing professionals who are happy to guide you. Whether it’s understanding the requirements or discussing special circumstances, don’t hesitate to reach out. [H2] What If I Don’t Qualify for an Apartment on My Own? If you don’t currently meet the income or credit criteria to qualify for an apartment , there are still ways forward: ● Use a co-signer or guarantor. A trusted friend or family member with stronger financials can back your lease in the case that your income does not meet the criteria. ● Offer a larger deposit. Be prepared to pay a higher deposit if you are applying with a low credit score. ● Consider a roommate. Splitting rent and bills between two people can help you qualify more easily. ● Look for flexible communities. Not all properties have strict requirements—some are more lenient and may accept alternative documentation or references. [H2] Ready to Find Your Next Home? Getting approved for an apartment might feel intimidating, but it doesn’t have to be difficult. With the right information, a little preparation, and the support of a responsive leasing team, you’ll be moving into your new home in no time. At HILLS Properties, we understand that everyone’s situation is unique. Our team is here to help you through every step of the application process—whether it’s your first apartment or your fifth. Explore our available apartments today and let us help you find the perfect place to call home.](https://cdn.hillsproperties.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/image-3.jpeg)
