Current Rental Tenants | Ashoka Lion

When it comes to renting in Houston, one of the biggest decisions you’ll face is whether to rent a home or an apartment . Both options come with unique advantages, challenges, and different expectations especially when it comes to maintenance responsibilities. Understanding these differences can help you make the choice that best fits your lifestyle, budget, and long-term goals. Renting a Home Pros More space: Houses typically offer larger living areas, private yards, and extra storage. This makes them a great fit for families or those who value privacy. Neighborhood lifestyle: Renting a house often means living in quieter neighborhoods, away from the hustle of large complexes. Parking and outdoor access: Driveways, garages, and private outdoor spaces are common. Cons Higher rent & utilities: More space often means higher monthly costs for rent, utilities, and upkeep. More responsibility: Tenants renting homes may be responsible for lawn care, trash bins, and even minor repairs, depending on the lease. Fewer amenities: Unlike apartments, homes typically don’t come with gyms, pools, or on-site maintenance. Renting an Apartment Pros Lower maintenance: Apartment living often includes professional landscaping, trash collection, and quick access to maintenance staff. Amenities: Many complexes offer gyms, pools, lounges, and shared spaces. Convenience: Apartments are usually closer to city centers, shopping, and entertainment. Cons Less privacy: You’ll share walls, floors, or ceilings with neighbors. Limited space: Apartments generally have smaller floor plans and less storage. Parking challenges: Depending on the complex, parking can be limited or come with extra fees. Tenant Responsibilities: Homes vs. Apartments One of the biggest differences tenants notice when moving from an apartment to a home is maintenance responsibility . In an apartment , property management takes care of major repairs, exterior upkeep, pest control, landscaping, and shared amenities, with some utilities included; tenants are mainly responsible for keeping their unit clean and promptly reporting issues. Learn more about the Tenant maintenance responsibilities HERE. In a home rental, Tenants are usually responsible for basic upkeep like lawn care, changing air filters, pest control, and minor repairs (unless otherwise stated in the lease) whereas Larger repairs (roof leaks, plumbing issues, structural problems) are typically the landlord’s / Property Management's responsibility. Learn more HERE . It’s important to carefully read your lease to know what’s expected of you. What feels like “extra chores” to some may feel like freedom and flexibility to others. The decision comes down to your lifestyle and priorities. If you want more space, privacy, and a neighborhood feel, renting a house could be worth the added responsibility. If convenience, amenities, and low maintenance are your top concerns, an apartment may be the better fit.

When you rent an apartment in Houston, one of the biggest benefits is that most of the maintenance and upkeep is handled by the property management team. However, this doesn’t mean tenants have no responsibilities. Knowing what’s expected of you can help avoid misunderstandings, keep your apartment in great shape, and ensure a smooth rental experience. What Maintenance the Landlord/PropertyManagement Handles? In most apartments, the property management or landlord is responsible for: Repairs to appliances and fixtures (stoves, fridges, dishwashers, plumbing, HVAC). Structural issues such as roof leaks, broken windows, or damaged walls. Pest control services, usually on a routine schedule. Common areas upkeep like hallways, parking lots, gyms, and pools. Lawn care and exterior landscaping. The key rule: If it’s part of the building itself or impacts multiple residents, it’s usually the landlord’s / Property management's job. Tenant Responsibilities in an Apartment Even though much is covered, tenants in apartments are typically responsible for: Reporting issues promptly. If you notice a leak, broken appliance, or pest problem, you need to let management know quickly so it doesn’t worsen. Replacing small items. Things like light bulbs, smoke detector batteries, and air filters (in some leases) are often the tenant’s responsibility. Keeping your unit clean. Regular cleaning helps prevent pests and damage. Avoiding damage. Tenants must take reasonable care of the apartment and may be held responsible for any damage beyond normal wear and tear. Following community rules. Proper trash disposal, noise policies, and pet restrictions are all part of maintaining a safe, clean environment. Always read your lease carefully to understand what you’re responsible for. Document issues with photos when you report them to management. Perform simple upkeep tasks like changing filters or light bulbs to avoid unnecessary fees. Renting an apartment can make life easier since most major maintenance is handled for you. Still, being proactive about your responsibilities will help you avoid fines, ensure quick repairs, and keep your home comfortable. Read the Complete Guide to Apartment Maintenance HERE .

As temperatures rise in Houston, it’s important to take extra steps to stay safe and comfortable while spending time outdoors. Summer is a great time to enjoy the outdoors, but it’s also a time to take precautions. A few small changes to your daily routine can make a big difference in your health and comfort. Whether you're walking your dog, heading to work, or enjoying a day outside, here are some easy ways to protect yourself from heat-related issues: Stay Hydrated Drink Water Regularly: Don't wait until you're thirsty to drink water. Carry a reusable water bottle and sip throughout the day, especially when outdoors. Hydrate Before Activity: Drink a glass of water 30 minutes before heading outside or engaging in physical activity. Consume Electrolytes: When sweating heavily, you lose electrolytes like sodium and potassium. Replenish them with low-sugar sports drinks or coconut water. Eat Hydrating Foods: Incorporate fruits and vegetables with high water content, such as watermelon, cucumbers, berries, and citrus fruits into your diet. Avoid Alcohol and Caffeine: These can contribute to dehydration. Opt for water or electrolyte-rich beverages instead. Set Reminders: Use phone alarms or hydration apps to prompt regular water breaks during busy days. Check out a few free watertracking apps HERE . Watch out for these early Signs of Dehydration: Thirst or a dry mouth Dark-colored urine Headache or dizziness Fatigue Decreased urine output Muscle cramps Plan Outdoor Activities Wisely : Schedule strenuous activities like yard work, exercise, or errands during cooler parts of the day, like early morning or late evening. Take frequent breaks in shaded or air-conditioned areas. Dress Appropriately : Wear loose-fitting, light-colored clothing made of breathable fabrics like cotton. Hats with wide brims can protect your face, ears, and neck from direct sunlight. Use Sunscreen : Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 to all exposed skin, reapplying every two hours, especially if you're sweating or swimming. Know the Signs of Heat Exhaustion If you feel dizzy, weak, or overly fatigued, move to a cooler place, hydrate, and rest. Prolonged exposure to high temperatures can lead to heat exhaustion or even heatstroke. Be aware of symptoms like excessive sweating, nausea, rapid heartbeat, or confusion. If someone shows signs of heatstroke such as no sweating despite the heat or loss of consciousness, seek medical help if needed. Be prepared for emergencies Have a plan in place in case of power outages or other heat-related emergencies. Stay safe and make the most of your summer by staying hydrated and following these simple tips. Keep cool, stay refreshed, and enjoy a fun, healthy season to the fullest! Stay prepared—click here to see the Red Cross checklist for extreme heat safety HERE.

Plumbing maintenance by Tenants

Hurricane Preparedness

One of the greatest legacies any parent can give a child is a framework for living an enduring healthy lifestyle. It is hard to underestimate the power parents have on their children’s development, which is why parenting is such a profound responsibility. The attitudes and habits formed in childhood can determine your child’s health in his or her adult years. Here are some ideas for parents who are looking to raise healthy children that grow up to be healthy adults: 1. Stick to a Steady Routine Set regular times for meals, schoolwork, play, and bedtime to give your child a sense of stability and help them stay on track. 2. Get Active It may be harder than ever to tear children away from the phone, computer, and TV, but it’s crucial that children engage in active play. Make use of the great weather and explore nearby parks, playgrounds, or trails. Whether it’s a quick game of catch outside or a weekend hike, staying active doesn’t have to be fancy—it just has to be fun! 3. Choose Healthier Foods Modern lives are busy, but try to plan ahead by stocking healthy foods and snacks in the house. You may even want to cook a few meals during the weekend for the week ahead. If you’re looking to improve dieting behaviors, be sure to move slowly with these changes. The less the kids notice, the more effective the transition will likely be. Expose your child to different foods by pairing them with foods he or she already likes. Let your kids pick out healthy snacks at the store. Cooking together is a fun way to teach them about balanced eating. 4. Cut Down Screen Time Set limits on TV and tablet use, especially during school nights. Instead, encourage your kids to read a book, draw, or play a game. Tech-free time helps kids stay focused, creative, and better rested. A shared family space can still be tech-free during certain hours to promote more interaction and creativity. 5. Teach Life Skills Early Give your kids little responsibilities around the house like tidying their room, feeding a pet, or setting the table. These small chores help them feel confident and capable, no matter your home size. 6. Promote Emotional Wellness Kids are tough, but they still need support! Talk to your children about their feelings openly, practice gratitude, and encourage kindness. Make your home a safe place for emotional expression, love and support are the most important foundations. Thirty-four percent of children in Houston (age 12 and over) are currently overweight or obese, according to the Houston Department of Health and Human Services.  Good habits should begin early in childhood. It’ll save you (and your adult child) from the difficulties of breaking bad habits later on. Healthy habits grow best with love and consistency. No matter where you live, you can give your kids the tools they need to thrive. Lessons are difficult to teach if the teacher is not practicing what he or she preaches. Be sure to lead by example. Start small, and you’ll see big results!

A budget helps tenants understand their income and expenses, giving them greater control over their finances. Budgeting allows tenants to categorize expenses (utilities, groceries, transportation, etc.), helping them identify areas where they can cut back or save ; enables tenants to set and achieve financial goals, whether it's saving for a future home, paying off debt, or planning a vacation and facilitate consistent payment of bills on time, which in turn improve a tenant's credit score over time. Keeping track of monthly income and expenses ensures that tenants can prioritize rent payments and avoid late fees or eviction. There are several apps that can help tenants stay organized and manage finances better: Mint : This app allows you to track expenses, set budgets, and get insights into your spending habits. You can categorize expenses and see how they stack up against your budget. You Need a Budget ( YNAB ): YNAB focuses on helping users allocate every dollar and prioritize spending. It's great for building a budgeting strategy that suits your needs. Good Budget : A digital envelope budgeting tool, Good Budget allows you to plan your expenses ahead of time. You can create categories for rent, utilities, groceries, and more. Pocket Guard: This app shows how much disposable income you have after accounting for bills, goals, and necessities, making it easy to see what you can spend. Every Dollar : Developed by financial expert Dave Ramsey, this app uses a zero-based budgeting approach, helping you allocate your income to specific categories. Wally : A personal finance app that helps you track your expenses and income while providing insights into your spending patterns. Spendee : This app allows you to create shared wallets, which can be helpful if you’re splitting costs with roommates. It also helps track expenses and budget. Simplifi : A budgeting tool that helps you see all your finances in one place, allowing for better tracking and management of your budget. To choose a Budgeting app: start by defining your goals, such as tracking expenses or managing bills. Look for a user-friendly design and essential features like bill reminders and savings goals. Ensure the app can link to your bank accounts for automatic tracking. Consider your budget, including any subscription fees, and check device compatibility. Choose an app that allows category customization and has strong security measures, like encryption and two-factor authentication. Check for customer support options and read user reviews for insights into others’ experiences. A budget offers tenants a clear understanding of what they can afford, enabling them to make informed decisions about housing, lifestyle, and other financial commitments. By tracking where their money goes and having a financial plan, tenants can reduce anxiety about their finances, resulting in greater peace of mind. Budgeting empowers tenants to manage their finances more effectively and work towards a more stable financial future.

Save money now before you really need it

Did you know that changing your air filter regularly can help save you money? Proper air filter maintenance is essential for keeping your HVAC system running efficiently and your energy bills low. It’s one of the simplest maintenance tasks with the most significant impact on your utility bills. Here’s why: 1. Improve Efficiency & Lower Costs When your air filter is clogged with dust and debris, your HVAC system has to work harder to maintain your desired temperature. This means more energy is used, and your utility bills go up. By changing the filter, you allow the system to run more efficiently, using less energy and ultimately saving you money. 2. Extend Your HVAC’s Lifespan A clean filter helps reduce strain on your HVAC system, preventing unnecessary wear and tear. This can extend the lifespan of your heating and cooling units and reduce the chances of costly repairs or early replacements. 3. Enhance Indoor Air Quality Regularly changing your air filter can improve your indoor air quality by trapping dust, allergens, and pollutants. It not only helps you breathe easier but also prevents these particles from circulating through your home, making it healthier for you and your family. Tip: Change your filter every 1 - 3 months, depending on your system's usage and based on the advice from AC companies in Houston. For ceiling intakes ,Filters should be changed at least once a month. For wall/floor intakes and if you have pets , Filters should be replaced every couple of weeks since they collect more dust, pet hair, and debris. Taking a few minutes to replace your filter can save you money and keep your home comfortable and healthy. Feel free to reach out to us for assistance or maintenance requests!