MICHIGAN EAST - Blog

June 24th, 2020

Wed, 24 Jun 2020 14:03:13 GMT

We are open!

Our office is now open! You can now come back to the office to sign leases, ask us questions, drop off keys, and find assistance with whatever else you may need.

Although we are open, we aren’t quite back to the way it was before. In order to continue slowing the spread of COVID-19 and protecting tenants and employees, we have set up precautionary measures. In accordance with the Champaign-Urbana Public Health District’s rules and regulations, we have some requirements for those entering the office. Please read on for more information about what to do when you come in and to learn more about what we are doing to keep you safe.
Masks:
Everyone in our office will be wearing a mask when a 6 foot distance cannot be maintained. We ask that everyone coming into the office please wear a mask.

Disinfecting:
To decrease the spread of germs, we regularly clean all office surfaces with disinfectant.
Please help stop the spread by following these guidelines while in the office and find Campus Property Management on the list of pledged businesses in Champaign-Urbana!

What to do when you move out.

Thu, 18 Jun 2020 15:19:37 GMT

MOVING OUT - CLEANING

Move out dates are getting closer and closer and there’s a lot to get done before you move out of your CPM apartment. In your lease, it says that you are to “surrender the premises in good, clean condition” to avoid the “certain costs” it takes for us “to clean and repair the premises.” Please see paragraphs 3, 5, 12, and 22 under Lease Agreements and Covenants in your copy of the lease. (Feel free to reach out to your property manager if you have any questions or need a copy of your lease agreement). Find a sample lease here. In this post we will go over what should be cleaned, what we look for when we do premise checks, and how you can avoid extra charges. Please read these Move-Out Guidelines closely so you know what is expected from you upon moving out.
*Note- these are NOT all of the items that can be deducted from a security deposit, but you should use this as a reference for what is expected. These are the most common ways you can avoid charges.

Clean EVERYTHING.
It’s very important that you clean every surface in every room. It may sound like a lot, but cleaning can actually be quite fun if you don’t wait until the last minute. Put on some music and make a day of it!
As per your lease, in order to not have your account charged for carpet cleaning you must have your carpets professionally cleaned. We do require that you show proof of professional carpet cleaning by providing receipts upon moving out. Receipts for carpet cleaning equipment rental are not acceptable.Some highly rated local carpet cleaners are KleenRite, Stanley Steamer, and Drummond Carpet and Upholstery Cleaning.

Entire Apartment-

-Sweep and mop hardwood and vinyl floors and hire a carpet cleaner for all carpeted areas.
-Clean all baseboards. -Wash walls, remove any stickers or marks. There should be no holes in the walls.
-Clean balcony, removing all belongings and debris.
-Remove ALL garbage and personal items. We charge $25 per bag of garbage that we have to throw away.
-Replace all broken or non-working light bulbs.
-Replace batteries in smoke and carbon monoxide detectors.
-Clean all windows and doors. Dust blinds, window screens, and window sills. Windows should be in good working order. Doors should be free of marks and holes.
-Dust all vents on floors, walls, and ceilings.
-Clean all light fixtures.
-Clean outlet covers and replace if broken.

Furniture-

Remove all furniture NOT provided by CPM.
-Make sure there are no marks, rips, or tears in couches, beds, or boxsprings.
-All furniture must be in good working condition.
-Leave all vertical and horizontal blinds covering the windows. They should have no missing slats.

Kitchen-

-Wipe down countertops. There should be no sticky or oily residue.
-Remove all food from the refrigerator, wipe down the interior and exterior so there are no stains or food residue. Handle and all drawers should be intact and unbroken.
-Clean stovetop (remove the coils if needed to clean well), range hood, oven, and oven drawer.
-Wipe down the microwave, inside and out, to remove food stains and residue.
-Clear out all food and trash from every cabinet.
-Clean cabinets inside and out.
-Wipe down the dishwasher and remove all dishes.
-Clean sink, sink drain, and make sure garbage disposal is working.

Living Room-

-Clear out and clean closets.
-Vacuum sofa and arm chairs.
-Light fixtures and lamps should be cleaned and unbroken.

Balconies-

-Remove all items and debris from balcony.
-Make sure the balcony door is locked before you leave the apartment.

Bathrooms-

-Scrub toilets with toilet bowl cleaner. There should be no mildew in the bowl.
-Clean the toilet water tank, base, and seat.
-Clear out cabinets and drawers of all items and wipe them down inside and out.
-Wipe down the exhaust fan, clearing the groves of dust.
-Clean the mirror, sink, faucet, and countertop. There should be no toothpaste or soap residue.
-Clean bathtub, shower, and/or Jacuzzi tub, including the jets. Make sure the shower rod is in place.

Bedrooms-

-Floors need to be vacuumed and cleaned.
-Dust windows and blinds.
-Remove all items from the closet, drawers, and under the bed.
-Make sure the mattress is set squarely on the metal frame and there are no rips, tears, or stains in the mattress fabric.
-Clean out and wipe down desks and desk chairs.

What We Check:

Our premise checkers are very thorough, so make sure you clean all of the items on the list. When going through an apartment, we check that everything is in working order, look for damages, and make sure everything has been cleaned properly. It should look like someone could move in right away, so aim to leave it like you would want it to look if you were going to move in.

Avoiding Charges:
Our team works hard to make sure apartments are move-in ready for the next tenants. This means cleaning, painting, and making repairs. You can avoid the charges that come with CPM having to do extra work on your apartment by following the above cleaning procedures and making minor repairs yourself. Fixing nail holes, replacing light bulbs, and removing all personal items and trash from the apartment before you leave will help us get the apartment ready for the next tenant. Just think of how you’d like your apartment to look when you move in! As you prepare to move out, please reference back to this list and the Move Out Checklist. If you have any questions about what is expected of you during your move, please feel free to contact us.

How to Make Your Own Face Mask

Wed, 06 May 2020 17:05:15 GMT

WEARING A FACE MASK

The CDC has recommended that everyone wear a face mask in public to help stop the spread of COVID-19. In Illinois, it is a requirement that you wear a mask when you are out in places where there are other people nearby like at a park, grocery store, or pharmacy. Masks are very important because they stop you from spreading germs to others, and if worn by another, they stop them from spreading germs to you. It’s an extra precaution that will help stop the spread and keep those around us protected a little bit more.

Face masks can be hard to find and buy right now due to the high demand. Everyone needs at least one, so it is understandable that stores and online retailers are sold out of masks.

So, what can you do if you can’t buy something? Do it yourself! Today, we will be learning how to make face masks at home with items we already own. I chose these two videos because they are easy to follow and don’t require advanced sewing skills. There are a few different ways to make your mask at different difficulty levels, so there will be something for everyone! Let’s get started.

This first video shows you how to make three different kinds of masks. They all are perfectly acceptable to wear in public and are effective to stop the spread of germs. (Just make sure the mask covers your nose and mouth). As she says in the video, the CDC recommends using “tightly-knit cottons” for masks. This could be a bandana or cotton tee shirt.
The first face mask she shows how to make requires no sewing, and the other two just require a line or two of simple stitches. You can totally make all these if you have a needle and thread! Remember, it doesn’t have to be perfect. It just has to cover your nose and mouth without slipping around your head.

This second video shows you how to make a face mask that will fit over your nose better, giving you more room to breathe. Though it requires a bit more time and sewing, it’s a good option for comfort and breathability.
Stay safe out there, and remember to always wear your mask!

CHAMPAIGN/Urbana RESTAURANTS OPEN FOR DELIVERY OR TAKEOUT!

Thu, 16 Apr 2020 16:22:58 GMT

Although all of the restaurants are closed for dine-in eating, many have continued (or started) delivery and carry-out services. You can still support your favorite local eateries by ordering online or over the phone and purchasing food or drinks from them. It's a great way to support local business and treat yourself to a delicious meal you didn't have to cook yourself! Some you may have to cross town to pick up, but let's be honest, we have the time.
Here are some of the local restaurants still taking orders!

Campustown/Urbana

Four Breakfast & More
Jip Bap
Cracked
Ambar India
Red Herring
The Bread Company
Manolo's Pizza
Caffé Bene
Rosati's Pizza
Caffe Paradiso
Black Dog
Sitara
Crane Alley
Dancing Dog
Masijta Grill

North/West Champaign

Basil Thai
Sarku Japan
Super Niro's Gyros
Taco John's
Original Pancake House
Mo's Burritos
Sammy's Pancake House

Midtown/South Champaign

Le Peep
Biaggi's
Hopscotch Bakery
Merry Ann's Diner
Papa Del's
Aroma Cafe
Black Dog
Maize at the Station
Esquire Lounge
Hamilton Walker's
Big Grove Tavern
DESTIHL
Flying Machine
Fiesta Cafe
El Toro
Golden Wok
The Ribeye

Didn't see your favorite place?

Check out any restaurant's Facebook or Instagram page to see if they offer delivery or takeout services during the COVID-19 crisis.

As always, stay safe and healthy and please reach out to us if you have any questions or concerns!

Update

Mon, 30 Mar 2020 19:24:25 GMT

COVID-19 Update

Wed, 18 Mar 2020 17:48:09 GMT

Hello everyone,

We just wanted to give you an update on what we are doing during this confusing time. The Michigan East office will be open regular hours until further notice. To reduce contact as is suggested by the state government, please feel free to call or email us with any questions you may have.

What you can do online

You can renew and sign leases online as well as pay your rent. If you need any help with this, please feel free to call during office hours or respond to our LiveChat operators on any of CPM's websites.

Our Current Promotion

Valentine's Day Events in Urbana

Thu, 13 Feb 2020 18:46:16 GMT

Valentine's Day is tomorrow! It's a great time to re-connect with your partner or yourself, and try something new. Here are a few events going on in Urban that will help you do just that. From parties to yoga, there is something that will make everyone happy on February 14th <3

The Roaring 20's Valentine's Day Soiree

Blackbird Urbana is throwing a 1920's themed Valentine's Day party! Dress like you're going to a party at Gatsby's house and stop by for a Jazz Age-style good time. The party starts at 8 p.m. this Friday the 14th. There will be drink and food specials for the night, and no cover! Learn more here.

Restorative Workshop for Couples

Amara Yoga & Arts is giving a couples restorative workshop with hot stones! Here is a bit about the class:

Get in touch with your partner while experiencing spa bliss in the yoga studio. This 120 minute gentle heart opening restorative class will be combined with the deep relaxing benefits of Hot Stone therapy. Each couple will receive a set of Heart Chakra stones following a champagne toast at the end.

The workshop takes place on the 14th from 6 to 8 p.m. Find tickets and learn more about the experience by following this link!

Misfit Market

Clear your schedule for Valentine’s Day because the Misfit Valentine’s Day Night Market is going to be amazing. From 5 to 9 p.m. at the Broadway Food Hall in Urbana, there will be vendors, workshops, food, wine tasting, and dancing all in celebration of V-Day. Bring a date, go with friends, or fly solo for the evening! There will be so much to do and see there. Find out more about the vendors and activities by clicking here!

Valentine's Day Dinner from Common Ground Food Co-Op

The Co-Op is cooking up a deliciously decadent Valentine's Day dinner. The menu features Bucatini with roasted tomato sauce, local beef tenderloin with red wine sauce, and dark chocolate cake. The meal includes wine pairing for each of the four courses. The dinner will be held in the Flatlander Classroom at the Co-Op at 6 p.m. Dinner is $40 per person. There is limited space, so reserve your spot for this elegant meal now! Learn more here.

Fun ways to get fit in Urbana

Wed, 22 Jan 2020 20:52:36 GMT

It's around this time of the month that New Year's resolutions made on the 1st are starting to slip a bit. That's okay! Change takes time, and a few slip ups shouldn't be seen as the end of trying. If one of your New Year's resolutions was to get healthier, you're in luck! This week, let's take a look at places near Urbana that can actually help you stick to your resolutions while having a good time. These places can benefit mental health as well as psychical healthy! Win-win, if you ask me.

Urbana Boulders

Location: 1502 N Cunningham Ave

What you can do there: Urbana Boulders offers a full body workout that makes you aware of muscles you never knew you had! Similar to rock climbing in most ways, bouldering involves climbing without a rope. Some people are a bit worried by this, but the walls only go up 13 feet and the floors are covered in thick foam cushioning. Since there aren't any ropes to deal with, you are free to explore the space and climb however you want. Learn more about UB here!

CU Women's Boxing

Location: 1908 N. Linview, Unit 3W

What you can do there: This is where women go to learn how to box! Boxing is a great full-body workout and is super empowering. CU Women's Boxing is a no-contact gym, so you won't be fighting anyone but the punching bag. Classes are an hour long, but it certainly won't feel like it, as they are so much fun. Check out their website here to learn more.

Hatha Yoga & Fitness

Location:2109 S. Neil St.

What you can do there: At Hatha, you can find some of the best yoga classes in CU and so much more. They have yoga, mediation, barre, HIIT, and weight lifting classes for all fitness levels. There are many different types of yoga classes to choose from, so you can find one to fit your individual needs. Click here for more information on each class.

What to do in Urbana this Holiday Season.

Thu, 12 Dec 2019 15:01:02 GMT

The Holidays are upon us! It can be a bit of a stressful time with all the presents to be bought and baking to be done, but it's important to remember what the holidays are all about: family and loved ones! Finding ways to spend a little extra time with the people you care about is the best way to celebrate this time of year. There are many events in Champaign-Urbana that can help bring people together. Let's take a look at some of the fun events coming up this month!

Santa at Harvest Market

Santa will be making a pre-Christmas pit stop at Harvest Market on December 21st. Kids can tell him their wish list, get a photo with him, and decorate cookies! You can see Santa in the Mezzanine (upper story over Kaldis) from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Learn more here!

Triptych Festivus

Seinfeld fans rejoice, Festivus is getting its time to shine at Triptych Brewing. Their 7th annual Festivus party will take place December 23rd from noon to 11 p.m. Stop by for a great beer selection and fun Festivus activities. Learn more here!

Winter Solace Celebration

The Urbana Park District is hosting a free event for the Winter Solstice at Anita Purves Nature Center. On the 21st, from 4 to 7 p.m., gather around a burning yule log and soak in the beauty of nature and the traditions of yesteryear. There will be ornament making, kids crafts, a woodland walk, and tree decorating for wildlife. Enjoy popcorn, cider, and s'mores as you make your intentions for the coming year. Learn more about the event here!

Hooey Holiday Home Show

One December 20th and 21st, there is one place to do all your last-minute holiday shopping. At the Hooey Holiday Home Show, you'll find all sorts of handcrafted items that make the best presents. By shopping here, you'll be supporting local makers and ensuring a truly unique gift for everyone on your list. You can stop by Hooey Batiks at 905 S Lynn St. on Friday the 20th from 5 to 8 p.m. and Saturday the 21st from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. See who will be there by following this link!

Easy Thanksgiving Desserts

Wed, 27 Nov 2019 18:05:13 GMT

Desserts are arguably the best part of a Thanksgiving meal. Every year it tends to be the same pumpkin, apple, or pecan pie, however. While those are classics and always welcome at any table, they can be time consuming to make from scratch. Here are a few really easy and tasty dessert recipes (that aren't pie) you'll want to devour as soon as the turkey and mashed potatoes have been cleared.

Pumpkin Bread Pudding

This sweet and gooey bread pudding has pumpkin, pecans, and plenty of warm spices that make it make taste like autumn. This recipe is made in a slow cooker, so you all you need to do is mix all the ingredients together, put them in the cooker, and leave it alone until it's ready. That's it! It takes about 3 to 4 hours to bake, so you can make it before you sit down for dinner, and it'll be ready by the time everyone is hungry again! Serve with ice cream and caramel sauce! Find the full recipe here.

Peanut Butter Lasagna

This recipe has everything yummy! Peanut butter, Butterfingers, Nutter Butters, and whipped cream. Dessert lasagna is as fun to make as it is fun to eat. If you're not a pumpkin lover, don't worry, because this is all peanuts and chocolate. Find the recipe here!

Apple Crisp

Apple crisp is the quintessential fall dessert. With tart apples, warm cinnamon, and a crunchy crumble topping, it's a bowl with a bit of everything yummy. All you need to do is coat sliced apple with cinnamon and sugar, place in a baking dish, and cover with the oatmeal crumble topping. Serve fresh out of the oven with as much ice cream or whipped cream as you can handle. Ready to enjoy! Click here for the classic recipe!

Butter Pecan Cupcakes

Here's a individualized twist on pecan pie! These butter pecan cupcakes are rich in flavor and are very easy to make ahead of time. The recipe from Food Network includes making the cake batter from scratch, but you can save yourself some hassle by using a box mix! Just mix the pecan flour into a vanilla cake mix of your choosing and bake according to the box. Finish with the homemade frosting and drizzle, and you are good to go! Click here for the recipe.