Metairie is a bustling place, no doubt – just a short drive from downtown New Orleans, the suburb is chock full of shopping, dining, and entertainment options, plus worthwhile residences like Crossroads apartments and Parktowne apartments (two of First Lake’s many Metairie and other Jefferson Parish properties).
However, Metairie holds a tranquil secret: Lafreniere Park. This ambling green space in the center of Metairie is home to multi-use lawns, fountains, picnic areas, hills, landscaped gardens, boating, fishing, paths, a running trails, a Frisbee golf course… the list goes on and on.
First founded in the 1970s, the park allows “all people of the Parish to rest and refresh their spirit in its peaceful, natural surroundings.” We couldn’t agree more!
One of the most enticing aspects of the park is a landscaped, 2-mile jogging trail called the Healthtrak. Cardiovascular activity is a great way to let go of a hectic workday, and while many of our properties offer gyms and pools for exercise, sometimes pounding the pavement outdoors is truly the best method to relieve stress.
Whether you take the trail at an ambling pace or at a full-blown sprint, you’ll experience scenic flora and fauna, water elements, and more.
Within the park, you’ll find Marsh Island, a water-surrounded area in the park’s southwest corner that is home to endemic flora and fauna of Louisiana. It’s also a dedicated bird sanctuary.
Authentic marshland habitat is home to different vegetation and bird life than you’ll see in other parts of the park. Keep an eye out for different species of plants and animals.
A meal outdoors is a spring and summertime tradition. Whether you pick up snowballs from a nearby Metairie snowball stand or pack your own picnic lunch, bring a blanket to Lafreniere Park and enjoy your food on one of several multi-use lawns or a designated picnic area (both are available at the park).
Not sure what to pack? Real Simple comes to the rescue with their simple Picnic Packing Checklist.
Perhaps you’re asking, “What the heck is Frisbee golf?” Well, it’s exactly what it sounds like. This hybrid of Frisbee and golf (also known as disc golf) has seen popularity recently, and is part of the reason Lafreniere Park created a proper Frisbee golf course.
The 24-hole course not only lets you explore the parks twists and turns, but also lets you make a game out of it – bring your own Frisbees and throw them at select targets throughout the course. It’s free to play! If you prefer City Park to Lafreniere, they also have a free Frisbee golf course on site.
Another enticing option at Lafreniere Park is the Spray Park for children ages 10 and under. With 4,000 square feet of water fun (featuring 13 water features), this large space is a great place for children to enjoy water safely.
Keep in mind that the spray park is only open on weekends and charges $5 per child for each session up to 90 minutes.
Spring and summer is often party season… but sometimes apartments (no matter how spacious!) can’t quite hold all your friends and family. Lafreniere Park presents a great alternative: you can rent out their Carousel, a spacious pavilion surrounded by a lagoon, for a private party.
Read their full rental agreement terms here, and contact the park for more information about hosting a private party.
Looking to settle down near this peaceful urban oasis? 1st Lake Properties offers plenty of nearby Metairie apartment communities you’re sure to love!
If you’re never had to find your own place to live, there are some first apartment essentials you need to be aware of.
Whether you’ve just finished college or are moving out of your parents’ house, you want your moving process to be as stress free as possible. That’s why we’ve compiled this guide for any first-time apartment hunter.
Here’s all the tips you’ll need to move into your first apartment!
For those who haven’t yet made the big move to apartment living, there are some first apartment essentials to consider. Keep these questions in mind when it’s time to start thinking about moving out of Mom and Dad’s.
Most experts will tell you when looking for an apartment for rent that rent should be no more than 25-30% of your annual income. While you might be dying to move into that two bedroom luxury apartment, you may not be able to afford it and should take many factors into consideration. Budgeting realistically for your new apartment, and finding one that suits your needs, is key.
Take the time to examine what your exact income is after taxes and subtract your expenses. Include food, household supplies, phone, car payment and insurance, credit card bills, clothing, gas, internet, healthcare, school loans, entertainment, and an extra category for “miscellaneous” for those unexpected expenses.
What you have left is the rental budget for your new place. Some management companies, like 1st Lake Properties, Inc., include a flat rate for certain utilities per month. With others, you may have to pay separate. Keep this in mind when considering monthly expenses.
Choosing who you’re living with should not be taken lightly. With the right roommate, sharing a space is a breeze and really fun, but if they’re the wrong choice, it can end badly.
Before agreeing to live with someone you didn’t know, make sure to spend some time with them first and decide if you’re able to get along and live in harmony.
On the other hand, living with your best friend can also be tricky. Best friends don’t always make the best roommates. It’s up to you to decide what’s best.
While apartment hunting, be sure to consider how close the location is to work, grocery stores, hospitals and entertainment. You might find your dream apartment, but it’s not worth it if the location is a nightmare.
Does the house or apartment you’re looking to rent have what you need, like washers and dryers, an alarm system, dishwasher, garbage disposal or outside space?
Also, you should never move into an apartment for rent before at least touring the community. It’s most helpful to view the layout of the apartment as it gives you a good idea of where and how much furniture you can have. Sometimes the actual apartment is not available to view – in these cases, its best to see an interior to view the fixtures and finishes.
Turn knobs, open and shut doors, and open windows. Do you get a cell phone signal inside your apartment? Don’t be afraid to test all of these things out when you’re looking at potential apartments. While it may feel awkward, it is a very necessary step in making sure your new home is right for you.
Ask as many questions when touring apartments as you need. You should be happy and comfortable and the tour should be a good experience.
Once the hard part is over and you’ve decided on your brand new first apartment, take the time to read the lease from cover to cover. Since this is your first time renting, you probably aren’t familiar with the legal lingo. Try to familiarize yourself with it before showing up for the lease signing.
Don’t be afraid to take your time combing through the details and ask the agent about any questions or concerns you may have. Sometimes, simple clarification can lend to peace of mind.
If you’re unclear about what your future plans may be long-term, ask about the possibility of a short lease term. Everything from re-painting the walls to what kind of roommates you can have is typically covered in the language of the lease. Reading the small print can make a big difference.
Download our free printable first apartment checklist to make your move a breeze.
Many first-time apartment renters find it hard to furnish their new apartment on a budget. While many of us would like a comfortable and stylish home, finding the finances to do so can be tough sometimes.
Thankfully, there are many resources and decorating ideas available for furniture shoppers without a lot of money to spare. It is possible to have a stylish apartment without a lot of funds! Finding everything you need simply requires a little hunting, a dash of luck, and a bit of scrutiny!
Begin by digging through your local classified ads. Whether you’re looking at your local paper or at a local site online, make sure you check in on all the ads you can find. Once you have some free time, devote a day or two to hitting up local flea markets, thrift shops or second-hand stores.
Sometimes neighborhood garage sales, yard sales, or rummage sales can yield amazing vintage finds, perfect for decorating! If you’re at a neighborhood sale, don’t be afraid to ask about the history of the item or why they might be getting rid of it. You can never be too cautious, and most owners are more than happy to answer any questions you may have.
If you don’t have luck with local resources, online sales and auctions are a possibility. However, do your research and try to stick to more reputable sites when buying larger items. If you’re unfamiliar with the website or source, there is a possibility of it being a scam. Even if the site is reputable, there are also risks involved. Generally, you will not be able to inspect the item in person before buying it and sales are usually final. You should also take into account shipping costs before bidding on or buying an item online. Depending on how much shipping costs, it may be cheaper to simply buy the item closer to home at a local store.
Whether you’re buying online or in person, it’s always important to inspect your item closely and thoroughly! Pull out drawers, look underneath the piece of furniture, and test doors. If the seller doesn’t allow you to inspect the item, don’t buy it! Even if the price of the item is cheap, you should expect it to be of good quality. Don’t be pressured into buying a sub-standard item!
Lastly, don’t be afraid to haggle. This can be most effective when buying from a garage sale or yard sale. Most times, the owner of the item is simply looking to get rid of it. As long as you remain realistic when haggling, you can generally come to an agreement on a lower price. Doing a little research and have a working understanding of the going rate can help you immensely. And if the seller refuses to lower the price, you can always shop elsewhere.
With these tips you may find it easier than expected to make your home look stylish on a budget. Your new apartment should reflect your personality and be a comfortable place to call home! Have fun searching for the perfect furnishings and trust your instincts when buying everything you need for your new apartment home!
Without a place to call home, your other expenses might as well go out the window. Make sure to prioritize rent above all else when payday comes. If money is tight, try to trim down by seeing what expenses you may be able to cut down on or remove completely from your expenditures.
Do you have a cell phone and no longer use your home phone very much? Switch to a cell phone only. If you’re going out to eat too much, try cooking at home instead to save money. There are always solutions to trimming your expenses down to help make ends meet.
Renting your own place for the first time can be exciting, but it shouldn’t be stressful. If you take the time to make sure your apartment and lease are right for you, budget your expenses, make sure your utilities get turned on, and plan for the unexpected, transitioning into this new step in your life should be a smooth and fun process.
Now that you’ve made all the important decisions about renting your first apartment after college, it’s time to start looking! Search for the perfect apartment in the greater New Orleans area at 1st Lake Properties and check out our map to see what 1st Lake location works best for you!
Be sure to also download our free printable first apartment checklist to ensure you make the move with everything you need.
Springtime is one for new beginnings. With that in mind, our April specials offer the possibility of a new apartment home in one of many of our communities. Take a closer look at our featured properties for April. Interested in taking a tour? Contact us today to arrange an in-depth visit!
When your home features a light-filled sunroom made for relaxing, an in-apartment washer and dryer, and plush carpeting, you’ll find it hard to leave. Crossroads Apartments in Metairie is one of our most conveniently located apartments, set just three blocks south of Veterans Boulevard. That translates to quick and easy access to the best shopping and dining of Metairie – or take a ten-minute drive and find yourself in the heart of New Orleans. Call to find out more about special rates on select units.
But – back to the units themselves. Choose from studios, one-bedroom, and two-bedroom apartments to meet your needs: select apartments feature cathedral ceilings while all are outfitted with oversized closets and set within a beautifully landscaped community that features bubbling creeks and winding paths tucked safely behind a censored access gate. We said it before, and we’ll say it again: you’ll find it hard to leave!
This River Ridge community offers proximity to New Orleans at a decidedly quieter pace. Find yourself in a peaceful atmosphere peppered with pines and local flora and fauna. You won’t just enjoy the green space and your walk to and from your apartment – on-site amenities like sparkling pools, private patios and balconies, and dedicated grilling stations allow you to experience the beauty of the outdoors each and every day.
Sawmill Creek offers a variety of floor plans to meet your needs. Choose a one-bedroom townhouse, a two-bedroom traditional style, or something in between. What’s more, you can choose from bathrooms, too – anywhere from one to 2.5 bathrooms are available. Corporate apartments are available to truly make this lushly appointed community your home away from home.
Brand-new apartment homes. Need we say more? We just completed our latest property, Bella Ridge, and its modern touches shine through. From granite countertops to crown molding to separate oversized tubs and showers, Bella Ridge feels like a luxury retreat – one that you get to live in year-round! Other savvy details include a covered parking garage (no more dashing through a rainy day) and an on-site dog park. A sparkling pool with built-in tanning ledges will give you a bronzed, summery, just-back-from vacation look – without the cost of an actual vacation! For April, you could receive up to $175 off your move-in costs plus up to $100 off monthly rent.
Size definitely matters when it comes to your apartment. The Villas at Laketown offer vast square footage and contemporary designs – architectural details like arched doorways, for example, are a regal touch. You’ll feel entirely at home as soon as you walk in and experience these apartments. From personal intrusion alarms at the door to wood-burning fireplaces, these townhomes offer all the convenience of a stand-alone home (attached garages included) and then some. These apartments rarely have availability, so we’re pleased to offer openings in addition to reduced rates on select units.
Millstream apartments in Metairie are that rare blend of convenience, space, style. Amenities include meticulously landscaped greenspace (plus a pool) and secure access gates. You’ll live amongst thoughtful interior details like natural brick accent walls, floor-to-ceiling windows, and built-in bookcases and vanities. But it’s hard to keep a home beautiful when it’s not organized – that’s why Millstream features spacious closets with organized shelving. Call us to find out more about special, reduced rents on select units.
Looking for a dog park in New Orleans for your best furry friend? You’re in luck! Greater New Orleans is home to several awesome dog parks for you and your pet to enjoy, including our own Bella Ridge property which features an on-site place for dogs to roam safely.
We know how important it is to keep your pet happy and healthy at 1st Lake, so we’ve compiled all the best New Orleans dog parks to help you find the perfect spot to play for you and your pup. Check out some of the best dog parks in NOLA!
Photo by @nolacitybark via Instagram
Located in City Park, this dog park spans nearly 5 acres and is a pup’s dream. Lush green spaces, dog activities, and a communal water fountain (in the form of a bright, red fire hydrant) make City Bark a fun destination for dogs and owners alike. The property is located in City Park behind Popp Fountain, bounded by Zachary Taylor Drive, Diagonal Drive, and Magnolia Drive.
Photo by @subterraneanhomefryalien via Instagram
Uptown dogs love the Dog Levee, near the corner of Leake Avenue and Magazine Street. The levee features a paved walking path that leads to a swimming hole (be sure to bring a towel for cleanup!). Be wary if your dog is a flight risk – this park is an open space free of fencing.
Photo by @alyssyb via Instagram
Another dog park in Uptown New Orleans, Wisner Dog Park is located at 4876 Laurel St. Water fountains for dogs and people are available, but be aware there aren’t any public restrooms for the humans!
Bella Bark is the on-site dog park at our Bella Ridge property in Elmwood. Fido might not appreciate the beautiful landscaping, but owners sure do! The convenience of having an on-site, safe space for your pup to play right outside your door is an added bonus of the many luxuries you’ll experience at Bella Ridge.
The silver lining of tax season is the tax refund – and deciding how you’re going to spend it! Some people use it for a fancy night out or a vacation, but we think you can transform your apartment into a fine dining establishment and vacation-worthy spot available for enjoyment every single day of the year. Did you get a little lagniappe from tax season? Here’s how to spend it!
Make your apartment a foodie paradise with smart purchases that create a restaurant-quality feel at home. A few ideas:
Vitamix blender. These high-performance blenders are perfect for at-home juicing, quick smoothies, and icy summertime treats.
Kitchenaid mixer. Another pricey – but totally worthwhile – kitchen appliance, the Kitchen-Aid mixer is a stand mixer that makes baking a breeze. But it doesn’t stop there. Use it for the fluffiest, dreamiest mashed potatoes or make homemade bread using the dough hook attachment.
Modern silverware. Upgrading your silverware to something hefty and sleek can instantly change the feel of a weeknight dinner. Crate + Barrel has several modern options like the Aero flatware, featuring matte black, aerodynamic handles.
Who needs a vacation when your apartment is as sumptuous as any hotel? Here are a few upgrades you can make with tax refund dollars.
A cashmere throw. Cashmere isn’t just for winter. Because it’s a natural fiber, it’s moisture-wicking and provides the softest, lightweight warmth any time of year (even in summer when the cranked-up A/C gives you a chill!).
A bold art print. Head to Society6 for a variety of affordable art prints that add a major impact to bare walls. Browse framed options – you’ll pay a little extra but the gallery-quality look is gorgeous and sleek.
Bamboo sheets and towels. Bamboo is an ultra-soft natural fabric that transforms showers into a spa-like experience. Bamboo sheets make it easy to fall asleep comfortably and quickly via a smooth and soft feel against your skin.
1st Lake Properties | P. O. Box 73709 | Metairie, LA 70033 | info@1stlake.com
