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A new year means new resolutions. Your personal resolutions probably include getting in shape or losing weight, but if you’re an apartment renter, you might want to consider making these resolutions to make your life at home easier. We talked to property managers and included a few of our own tips that you can use to help make 2017 your best year as a renter yet. Cheers to 2017!

Respect your neighbors.

Most apartment renters live in close quarters and share walls with other renters. Be considerate of each other.

“While hosting a party or inviting guests over for a movie night might be nice every now and then, try not to make it a regular occurrence — especially on weeknights. Keep in mind that your neighbor might have a big work presentation the next day or a new baby that is having trouble falling asleep at night,” says David Lobsinger, property manager at the Weston Park apartments in Longwood, Florida. “One of the worst calls a property manager can get is a complaint about someone else in the complex. Being considerate can go a long way when in terms to fostering a comfortable and happy community for all.”

Notify Management If You Change Your Email Address or Phone Number.

If you get a new email address or phone number, don’t forget to notify your property manager. Property managers will still need to get in touch with you.

Pay Attention to the Small Details.

Springfield, Virginia-based Brad Chandler, who works with renters as the CEO and Co-founder of EHB Property Management, says he wishes renters took care of the following:

-Air filters (it will save them and property owner money in the long run)
-Batteries in their smoke detectors
-Check under sinks often for small leaks

Refer to Instructions and Agreements.

Some properties will cover the cost of air filters. Other’s won’t. Take notes when the staff tells you how things are done and refer back to them when you have a question.

“Whether your leasing agent is describing how to care for a certain appliance, or reminding you to regularly change the air filter, take notes and make sure you follow them,” says Lobsinger. “Knowing how to turn off the gas valve or trip a break may seem unnecessary now, but if you need to take care of these tasks in the future, you will be thankful you received the information prior.”

Let Management Know About Repairs

Some renters are hesitant to let property managers know if appliances are broken or if the apartment is in need of repair. Don’t be one of them.

“Don’t wait until the month before your lease is up to come to us with problems you’ve had all year. Property managers are there to help you when you need it — so take advantage of it. Most of the time, managers make it a priority to keep their property in the best shape, and it only helps them when you share what is going on within your place,” says Lobsinger.

It’s (usually) easier for a property manager to work on one repair every few months instead of handling everything at once

Keep Up with Cleaning.

You don’t have to hire a service to come in every month, but be sure to keep the place relatively clean. Sweep, vacuum or mop the floors. Clean out the fridge every few months. Take out the garbage daily.

Notify the maintenance team of community repairs.

If an exterior light went out or if the dog waste bags are gone, let your property manager know. You might assume somebody else told him or her, but you never know.

Make Extra Keys.

If you haven’t already, get at least one extra copy of all your keys made. If you lose one, replacing it won’t be a big deal. No waiting on your property manager to let you into your home. Plus, it (usually) will cost a lot less if you have your own copies made.

Observe Parking Rules.

This might seem minor, but don’t park in someone else’s space. This can cause trouble, and it’s often worth the time to ensure you, and your guests, didn’t accidentally leave your car where it shouldn’t have been.

Decorate.

Hear us out here: you spend hours in your apartment. And even if you’re just sleeping or eating there, you deserve to live in a space that feels like home. Plus, there are many inexpensive and easy ways renters can upgrade their abodes.