Articles by

Mihaela Buzec

Mihaela Buzec is a senior writer and online content developer for RentCafe. She covers topics about everything related to the renting lifestyle, from decorating and interior design to finding the right apartment, frugal living, money saving advice, and more. She dives deep into topics of interest, writing well-researched comprehensive guides on subjects such as renting with pets, saving on utilities, or avoiding rental scams to help renters stay informed and live smart.

Mihaela holds a BA in English and German Language and Literature, an MA in Current Linguistics, and she is currently pursuing a PhD in neurolinguistics.

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best college towns in the u.s.

Beyond the Classroom: 2024’s Top College Towns Where Good Life Meets Academia

Bozeman, MT, home of Montana State University, ranks first in our list of best college towns in the U.S.  Western college towns lead this year with 8…

19 Locals-Approved Things to Do in Philadelphia

If you’ve ever been to Philadelphia (also known as the City of Brotherly Love), you know it’s the perfect marriage of a modern metropolis and…

things to do in Albuquerque

9 Things to Do in Albuquerque as Recommended by Locals

Located in the central part of the state along the Rio Grande, Albuquerque (also known as ABQ, Duke City, and Burque) is the most populous…

pros and cons of paying rent with credit card

The Pros and Cons of Paying Your Rent With a Credit Card

Over the past decade, the number of consumers using credit cards to pay rent has increased. Usage spiked during the pandemic, when consumers utilized credit…

things to do in san diego

9 Things To Do In San Diego, As Recommended By Locals

Nestled along the sparkling coastline of Southern California, San Diego beckons visitors with its perfect blend of laid-back coastal charm and dynamic urban energy. But…

14 Authentic Things to Do In San Francisco, According to Locals

The vibrant, eclectic city of San Francisco is known for many exciting landmarks. The majestic Golden Gate Bridge, the breathtaking San Francisco Bay, and the…

what to do after moving to a new apartment

10 Essential Things to Do After Moving to a New Rental Apartment

Moving to a new apartment can be an exciting opportunity for a fresh start. It can, however, also be a bit disorienting, leaving you feeling like…

trendiest interior design styles 2024

Trendiest Interior Design Styles for 2024: Brutalism Makes Strong Debut, Japandi Style Fades

Brutalism claimed the #1 position on our list of the fastest-rising interior design styles with online searches for this design almost doubling over the year….

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8 Unique Things to Do in Tallahassee, Coming Straight From Locals

The lively capital city of Florida, Tallahassee, is bursting with character and brimming with a diverse array of attractions for every type of adventurer! Ask…

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9 Unique Things to Do in Honolulu, as Recommended by Locals

Nestled on the island of O`ahu, Honolulu is the heartbeat of Hawai`i — a tropical paradise and cosmopolitan gem offering a kaleidoscope of experiences that…

things to do in boston

15 Unique Things to Do in Boston as Recommended by Locals

From cobblestone streets echoing tales of the Revolutionary War to the cutting-edge corridors of renowned academic institutions, Boston is a dynamic blend of past and…

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14 of the Best Things to Do in Chicago, Recommended by Locals

Nestled along the shore of Lake Michigan, Chicago is a city of diverse communities, each with its own distinct character. There is the gleaming downtown…

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6 Top Destinations in Orlando, as Recommended by Locals

Orlando is often dubbed the ‘Theme Park Capital of the World,’ but to locals it is much more than just the home of Mickey Mouse….

Renting for Veterans: Housing Assistance Information & Useful Resources

Finding the right home and feeling safe in your space is quintessential for everyone, and for the veterans who have served our country, a home…

online rental platforms for modern renter

Top 10 Features of Rental Platforms the Modern Renter Is Looking For

In today’s fast-paced world, modern renters are seeking more than just a roof over their heads. With busy lives, tight schedules, and a desire for…

Visiting Oakland? Here Are 8 Things Locals Told Us to Try

Oakland is one of the major cities in the Bay Area and an often underrated Californian city. It is home to many important institutions and…

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9 Fun Things to Do in Houston, Recommended by Locals

A bustling city filled with culture and history, Houston is the most populous city in Texas, and the fourth-most populous in the country, home to…

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10 Apartment Security Tips for Renters

Your home is your castle — at least, it should be. The first thing you should do when you move into a new place, whether…

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Looking for Unique Things to Do in Cleveland? Here’s What the Locals Told Us to Try

Cleveland, OH is a great place to live, a diverse city with beautiful natural surroundings, as well as plenty of history and culture. It was…

things to do in nashville

8 Fun & Authentic Things to Do in Nashville, as Recommended by Locals

A city of music and education, Nashville, TN, is a must-see destination for people from all over the country. The “Athens of the South” is…

creating a serene space in your apartment

Experts Share Tips on Creating a Serene Space in Your Apartment

Your home is a place you come back to time and time again and it should feel cozy and peaceful. Sometimes, as we get caught…

things to do in seattle

Here Are 10 Unique Things to Do in Seattle, Suggested by Locals

Surrounded by the ocean, mountains, and lakes, Seattle is a beautiful city that is rich in history, culture, and benefits from a gorgeous geography. Nicknamed…

transfer utilities when moving

How to Transfer Utilities When Moving to a New Apartment

When moving to a new apartment, transferring utilities is an essential step. You want to make sure that everything will be in place when moving,…

average utilities costs by state

What Are Apartment Utilities & How Much Will They Cost Me?

This article was updated in July 2023. What Is the Average Electric Bill? Tips for Saving Money on Your Electricity Bill What Is the Average…

best college towns california

Best College Towns in California to Live Your Best Student Life

Student life is an exciting combination of the school you go to, the friendships you make and the place you move to. So, for the…

expert interview millionaire renters

Expert Analysis: What Makes Millionaires Want to Rent and Not Buy?

Our recent report on the profile of renters today revealed an 82% increase in high-earner renters between 2015 and 2020. This percentage is significantly higher…

renting a first floor apartment

Pros and Cons of Renting a First-Floor Apartment

There’s a long list of items to consider when you’re apartment hunting. You need to consider everything from how the rent fits your budget to…

spring cleaning checklist

Spring Cleaning Checklist for Renters

It’s spring again — the season when everything comes back to life after months of hibernation! Birds start to chirp, days are longer, the sun…

how to organize a small apartment

How to Organize a Small Apartment: Tips & Tricks to Maximize Space

Organizing a small apartment has become an art form: innovation, creativity and functionality all meet in our attempts to maximize the space we have available….

trendiest design styles 2023

2023 Trendiest Interior Design Styles on Google: Japandi Tops the List for Second Year in a Row

Japandi claims the top position as the fastest-rising interior design trend for two years in a row—with a 108% increase in Google searches compared to…