Insider Secrets for Winter Apartment Hunting!

February 21, 2025

Let’s face it: nobody wants to move during a blustering Minnesota winter day. Moving in general can be stress-inducing, then adding frigid temperatures and cold to the mix can seem like a chore.

Thankfully, there are many benefits for renters looking to move in the winter! Let’s take a look at how this may be to your advantage!


Less Competition


Just like we said, less people want to move during colder months, which provides less competition to those who do! While Hornig Companies has our apartments available on a first-come-first-serve basis, it never hurts to have fewer people after the apartment you want.


Rent Specials


With less foot traffic viewing apartments, you’ll often see rental specials in the winter. We want to rent our units and with fewer people looking, you could potentially be offered a free parking space, discounted rent, or a storage unit for a limited time.


Experiencing the Heat!


A small but mighty bonus of apartment hunting during Minnesota winters is being able to experience how well the heat holds up in the unit. Nobody wants a cold or drafty home. When you’re shopping for a place to live in the summer, it’s not quite as easy to know how well the heat works.


See Multiple Units


With fewer people out and about looking for apartments, this means there may be multiple vacancies available. When booking a tour with the property manager, ask if there are different floor plans available. You will be surprised how much you may like one over

another!


Final Thoughts

While moving any time of the year can be stressful, our team of experts are here to help! Making a list of your wants, needs, must-haves, and even things you don’t want can make it easier to find the right place for you! Talk with one of our leasing agents or property managers today who can help you find your next home. 

Easy Tips to Make Your Home an Autumnal Paradise

September 12, 2025
As we welcome the month of September, it’s time to say goodbye to the warm breeze of another Minnesota summer. Whether you live in a townhome in St. Joseph, a cozy walk-up in St. Paul, or a brownstone apartment in Uptown, the changing leaves and cool temps mean one thing: it’s time to make your space as cozy and welcoming as a mug of hot cider from the St. Paul Farmers' Market.  If you’re renting, you can easily bring autumn into your apartment with a few thoughtful touches. Fall in the Land of 10,000 Lakes is a whole vibe - apple orchards, cozy bookstores, leaf-strewn bike trails - and your home can feel just as charming. Grab your favorite flannel, a latte from your favorite coffee shop, and let’s turn your apartment into a content autumn hideaway. Start with a Deep Clean

Must-Have Tools for Every Renter

August 26, 2025
While living comfortably is easy at one of Hornig Companies' properties, there are some items you’ll want to keep on hand. Don’t worry – you don’t have to shell out a ton of money for an expensive toolkit – instead, leave that to our talented maintenance team. Take a look at what we suggest every renter have at the ready, for all that life throws your way. 1. A Plunger

Your Guide to Renter's Insurance

July 23, 2025
As a Minnesota or Wisconsin renter, you’re free from many of the responsibilities that come with homeownership - no worrying about roof repairs, lawn maintenance, or structural insurance. But while your property manager is responsible for the building itself, everything inside your apartment that belongs to you is your responsibility. Think about the things that make your home feel like home: the cozy couch you finally treated yourself to, the blanket your mom gave you, the quirky antique table that perfectly fits your style. Add in your electronics, cookware, décor, and all the meaningful pieces you’ve collected over the years. These aren’t just things - they’re part of your life. It’s a common misconception that a landlord’s insurance on a building will cover your personal belongings in the event of a fire, theft, or other disaster. But here’s a simple rule to remember: you insure what you own. The property owner covers the building; renters protect their possessions with a policy called renters insurance. How Does Renters Insurance Work? 

First-Time Renters: Everything You Need to Know Before Signing a Lease

July 10, 2025
Whatever new era of life you’re entering, being a first-time renter can feel intimidating. Renting your first home is an exciting milestone, but it also comes with responsibilities and costs that may be unfamiliar to you. As a property management company, our team at Hornig wants the best for our tenants. Here’s what we think you should know as a first-time renter! Budgeting and Planning for Costs When Apartment Hunting

Combatting Loneliness While Living in an Apartment: Tips for Finding Connection and Community

May 28, 2025
Living in an apartment offers convenience, easy access to amenities, and a central location near work, schools, and entertainment. However, it can also feel isolating, especially without a backyard or front porch to casually chat with neighbors. Many people, particularly adults, experience loneliness in apartments, whether from moving to a new place, living alone, or going through life changes. The good news is there are plenty of ways to combat this and build connections. Here are a few tips to help you feel more connected and supported in your community. 1. Acknowledge the Loneliness: It's More Common Than You Think

The Infamous 1930s Bank Robber Who Lived at 3252 Girard Ave. S.

April 29, 2025
Although many of the buildings in Hornig Companies’ portfolio have rich histories, what if we told you one of them is home to one of the most notorious gangsters in America? 3252 Girard Avenue South may be a beautiful apartment building today, but it once housed an individual that quickly became a household name. You may already know his infamous name. John Dillinger was a notorious American bank robber and criminal during the early 1930s, often regarded as one of the most famous figures of the Great Depression-era crime wave. 

New Season, New Vibe: Prep Your Apartment for Spring

March 27, 2025
When we reach this time of year, many of us Minnesota and Wisconsin residents feel spring upon the horizon. While we may never know when we get a last-minute seasonal blizzard, today we’ll be diving into how you can refresh your apartment for springtime! It’s almost here, folks! Let’s get into it. Perform a Deep Clean

How to Refresh Your Home for 2025!

January 15, 2025
As calendars turn from December to January, resolutions, inspirations, and motivations are at an annual high. If you looking to refresh your space in 2025, here are some simple and beneficial ways to do it!  Declutter!

Must-See Minnesota Holiday Markets

December 6, 2024
The holiday season is magical in Minnesota. Not only do we have the landscape of a winter wonderland, there is simply something in the air that brings feelings of cheer and warmth (despite what Ken Barlow might say…). Whether you’re looking for a cute new ornament for your tree, the perfect gift for a loved one, or a memorable activity that’s fun for the whole family, there are endless holiday markets in the Twin Cities. With everything from handmade decorations to mouth-watering baked goods, let’s take a look at the five best holiday markets around Minnesota. 1. St. Paul’s European Christmas Market

Tips for Hosting Apartment Gatherings

November 22, 2024
And just like that, Summer has come and gone in Minnesota ! The holiday season is quickly approaching. For many of us, this comes with the role of hosting friends and family for festive gatherings. When renting an apartment or townhome, it can feel like a challenge to host in a smaller space. We’ve scoured the internet to find the most helpful tips to make this season as stress-free and joyful as possible! Here are our top tips for your next gathering!  1. De-Clutter!