Villa Serrano Apartments

Discover the Magic of the Holidays in Anaheim, CA!

Thu, 16 Nov 2023 18:48:59 GMT

It’s the most wonderful time of year—and even more than that, it’s happening in one of the most wonderful locations in the world. As if the temperate Southern California winters weren’t enough of a cause for celebration on their own, Anaheim and nearby areas will be home to myriad activities, celebrations, and good vibe creators for the holidays, melding multiple cultures and traditions into one big to-do list.

However you choose to spend November and December, we hope you feel the magic of the season. Here are several suggestions that will help make this a holiday season to remember:

Activities

D isney’s Festival of Holidays and A Christmas Fantasy Parade : One can be certain that anywhere that refers to itself as “The Happiest Place on Earth” would not undersell extravagant holiday celebrations. Disneyland’s holiday extravaganzas include everything from seasonal transformations of your favorite rides to festive light shows and holiday treats. The Festival of Holidays, held at Disney California Adventure Park, is a multicultural event with a heavy musical influence that takes in the sights and sounds of Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, and Three Kings Day and runs from November 10 through January 7.

A Christmas Fantasy Parade is another magical Disneyland event, featuring prancing reindeer, marching toy soldiers, and dancing gingerbread cookies. Be sure to arrive early to secure a good viewing spot and catch a glimpse of Santa Claus himself among the Disney characters!

Winter Fest Orange County : Winter Fest Orange County is returning to the Orange County Fair and Events Center again for 2023! This one-of-a-kind experience is touted as “a magical winter wonderland” and boasts a million lights. The experience—which features ice tubing, holiday photo ops, live entertainment, games, and carnival rides—is open from November 24 through January 7, with limited tickets and time slots per day. So steer clear of the holiday doldrums: Head on over and check it out.

Hikari – A Festival of Lights : Tanaka Farms in Irvine offers a variety of holiday-spirit and good-vibe-inducing festivities, including 30 acres of farm-themed lighting, a wagon ride to the Land of a Thousand Lanterns, and a visit to the Gingerbread Forest with crafts, photo ops, live music, and a chance to meet Santa. This attraction begins on November 24 and is open from 4:30 to 10 p.m. daily. Registration is required.

The 6th Annual Winter in the Grove : Experience snow slides, a tree-lighting ceremony, and—gasp!—maybe even a surprise visit from Mr. and Mrs. Claus (wink, wink). But let’s keep that on the down-low for now. It’s all happening at Village Green Park in Garden Grove on December 2 from 3 to 7 p.m.

Irvine Park Christmas Train : All aboard for an event sure to help you “track” who’s been naughty and who’s been nice in 2023. Christmas train tickets are only sold online, and patrons pick a specific date and time at the time of purchase. If you buy a ticket, the train will take you to the North Pole, where you can visit and take a photo with the fanciful, jolly, red-suited, white-bearded big man himself.

Activities also await those who don’t purchase a train ticket, as the Santa’s Village part of the experience will also be open to all. Santa’s Village is a magical place with a bevy of ticketed attractions, including a moon bounce, cookie decorating, ice fishing, carnival games, Rudolph Racers, a blizzard ball, a craft corner, and food options galore. Located at Irvine Regional Park in Orange, the park is open from 4 to 9 p.m. on weekdays and 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. on weekends, November 24 through December 30.

Shopping

The 52nd Annual Golden Candy Caneland and Craft Fair : The City of Buena Park Community Services Department is presenting this cornucopia of fun at the Ehlers Event Center from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on December 9. In addition to food and craft booths, there will be games, snow slides, a petting zoo, an ice rink, and a visit from Santa to keep the kids entertained.

Holiday Festival at the Muckenthaler : Come celebrate the season with an arts and crafts sale, free art workshops for kids, live music, and family-friendly activities at the Muckenthaler Cultural Center in Fullerton. What’s not to like? The fair will be held on December 17 from noon to 2 p.m.

Sugar Plum Arts and Crafts Festivals : Attend the Sugar Plum Arts and Crafts Festivals in Westminster for some exciting holiday shopping! The festival is a unique shopping event that offers homemade crafts, unique holiday and home decor, garden accessories, clothing, jewelry, food items, and fine arts by more than 150 vendors.

Shows and Performances

The Nutcracker Ballet at the Grove of Anaheim : Perish the thought of a holiday season without seeing Clara falling asleep and turning her woeful winter night into a fanciful feast and wooden toys come to life. Yes, The Nutcracker will be performed by the Anaheim Ballet in all its glory with the Irvine Symphony at the Grove at Anaheim on November 24 at 7 p.m.

Trans-Siberian Orchestra: “The Ghosts Of Christmas Eve - The Best of Tso and More” : If lasers, pyrotechnics, incredible lighting effects, and live and loud rock music with a classical twist sound like an exciting night to you, then catching the Trans-Siberian Orchestra should be extremely high on your holiday wish list. TSO is sharing its Christmas classics this holiday season and plays nearby at Toyota Arena on December 2.

For King & Country: A Drummer Boy Christmas Concert: Grammy award-winning duo Joel and Luke are bringing holiday cheer this Christmas with their Drummer Boy Christmas tour. This event will be an exciting night of festive music and will take place in the Honda Center on December 9.

Opportunities to Share

Light a Light of Love – Waymakers : Take a drive to Huntington Beach on December 3 for several festive events. One of the main happenings will be the Light a Light of Love event, a celebration to benefit the Huntington Beach Youth Center. The event also includes a parade down Main Street, a visit on the beach from Surf City Santa, and a ceremony to light the Snowflakes on the Huntington Beach Pier.

Safe Celebration

Who among us has not burned a deliciously scented candle during the holidays? But did you know that up to 7,400 fires are started each year because of household candles? Be sure to take extra care when lighting candles in your apartment, especially your bedroom. Consider using battery-powered candles or scented spray instead to address all your aroma needs while avoiding any inherent dangers. And if you do use candles, do not leave them unattended.

Christmas trees, of course, also can create another fire hazard. If you’ve brought a real Christmas tree into your apartment for the holidays, make sure you keep it watered so it doesn’t dry out. Keep all open flames, such as candles, away from the branches, and make sure you turn all lights off when you’re not at home. Stay safe and enjoy the holidays!

We could all do with a festive holiday season, and you won’t have to go far to find it. With activities, shopping, shows, and opportunities to share, Anaheim, CA, has everything you need to make the season bright. From all of us at Villa Serrano Apartments in the heart of Anaheim, Happy Holidays!

Anaheim Spotlight: The Ranch Restaurant and Saloon

Mon, 23 Aug 2021 18:14:00 GMT

Anaheim may conjure images of mouse ears and orange groves, but the city has so much more to offer. For those looking for a more refined evening, the city hosts a variety of upscale restaurants, clubs, and dance halls. But what if you could find all three things in one convenient spot?

At The Ranch, you can. This venue offers live music, country dancing, and fine dining, everything you need for your next night out.

The Ranch Restaurant

Paying homage to the ranches, farms, and dairies of the Sunshine State, The Ranch Restaurant was named Anaheim’s 2020 Restaurant of the Year, offering traditional American cuisine made from scratch and harnessing the flavors of wine country. Farm-to-table produce is offered seasonally and is always fresh, featuring organic fruits and vegetables from Anaheim, California, farms, and the restaurant’s own Santa Ana ranch.

On the menu , you’ll find a wide variety of Americana favorites, from the appetizers—including Robbins Island Tasmanian Wagyu Beef Carpaccio, made with mushrooms, truffle, arugula, and romaine—to the old-fashioned Pecan Pie for dessert. Entrees include grass-fed lamb flown in from Colorado, free-range beef sourced from the highest-quality ranches in the country, and Chilean sea bass provided by workers dedicated to the sustainability of our oceans.

Specialty cocktails include the Lime in the Coconut, made with cinnamon and dragonfruit, and the BBQ Bacon Old Fashioned, mixed with a bacon-infused rye whiskey. The wine list is hand-selected to compliment the menu and features imported and local favorites either by the glass or by the bottle.

The Ranch Saloon

Adjacent to the restaurant is The Ranch Saloon , a premiere venue known for hosting live country music, DJs, and dancing. Drawing inspiration from the now-defunct Palomino Club in Los Angeles and the Crazy Horse Saloon and Grill in Nevada City, the intimate space features a 40-foot stage that has featured many local country musicians and a dance floor with plenty of space to learn the classic two-step, line dancing, and west-coast swing styles from the in-house country dance instructors. The 47-foot Long Horn Bar and 27-foot Mustang Bar help attendees wet their whistle, and booth seating lets them sit a spell while staying close to the action.

The Ranch Events Center

Six floors up from both the restaurant and the saloon sits The Ranch Event Center , a more than 7,000-square-foot space featuring an 18-seat classroom kitchen, six private dining rooms, a banquet hall, a meeting facility, and a wine cellar housing more than 10,000 bottles. With an in-house team able to create a custom menu and its unique vantage point offering excellent views of Anaheim, California—including the Honda Center, Angel Stadium, and even the Disneyland resort with its fireworks display—The Ranch Event Center can customize your event to make it a truly memorable experience.

The next time you’re looking for a night out, a good meal, or that special spot for your next big event, consider The Ranch in Anaheim, California. And if you’re looking to make a homestead for yourself, contact Villa Serrano Apartments in Anaheim to learn more about our rental options and availability.

Photo Courtesy: The Ranch

Soak Up These Three Summer Activities in Anaheim, California

Thu, 29 Jul 2021 20:34:00 GMT

Anaheim is one of the best places to be this summer! There are amazing indoor and outdoor activities for everyone. Just moved to Anaheim or here visiting? Here are some of our favorite summer Anaheim activities!

Picnic in Yorba Regional Park

This park was specially created with family fun in mind. With over 200 BBQs, 400 picnic tables, and seven large group pavilions, nearly any group can enjoy the beauty of Yorba Regional Park . In the center of the park, visitors will find four lakes interconnected by a year-round stream. The lakes are perfect for fishing and model boat racing.

Miles of biking and walking paths also criss-cross the park and connect to the Santa Ana River Trail, which leads all the way to the ocean. Yorba Regional Park has multiple playgrounds for small children and horseshoe pits, volleyball courts, and baseball diamonds for all ages. There’s no better summer activity in Anaheim than a picnic with family and friends at Yorba Regional Park!

Catch a baseball game at Angel Stadium

Anaheim, CA, is home to one of the most famous teams in baseball, the Anaheim Angels. No summer is complete without taking in a ballgame at Angel Stadium . This quintessentially American activity is great, even if you’re not a huge baseball fan. The cheering crowds, stadium music and activities, and scent of grilled hotdogs and garlic fries make a visit to Angel Stadium an experience in itself.

There’s plenty of great food, drink, and souvenirs available at Angel Stadium, and who doesn’t love waving a giant foam finger! Plus, the baseball games happen in the evening, which makes for perfect weather during the game! The Angels play May through September but only play at their home stadium half the time, so reserve your tickets early!

Explore Oak Canyon Nature Center

This 58-acre nature park is the perfect place to get outside and enjoy nature while still being close to Anaheim. Located in the Anaheim Hills, Oak Canyon Nature Center offers visitors gorgeous views of the city and surrounding area as they enjoy the over four miles of hiking trails available in the park.

What makes this park an especially great summer activity is the year-round stream that flows down the canyon and through the park. This water source allows large trees to flourish and provide shade throughout the park. Visitors, especially children, will also enjoy the interpretive center and small museum on site that explain more about the native flora and fauna in the area.

With picnics, baseball games, and hikes, Anaheim offers plenty to keep your summer packed with activities. If you’re planning to move in, give us a call: Villa Serrano Apartments offers one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartments for rent in Anaheim, CA. You’ll love where you live!

Read About This Simple Trick to Boost Your Credit

Tue, 22 Jun 2021 17:01:00 GMT

A 2017 TransUnion study followed renters to see what happened to their credit scores when the renters reported their rent payments to credit bureaus. You know what happened? Their credit scores improved by an average of 16 points within six months!

If you’re hoping to increase your credit score, it’s more than worth it to pay rent online. Doing so makes sure your payments can be reported, makes you look good, and gives you an opportunity to boost your score even more. Keep reading to learn how it works.

Ensure Your Payments Are Reported

Paying rent online is the key here.

“Simply paying your rent will not help you build credit,” says Bev O’Shea at NerdWallet. “But reporting your rent payments can help you build credit—especially if you are new to credit or do not have a lot of experience using it.”

At Villa Serrano , we offer an online rental payment system that reports information to the credit bureaus. That way, they know that you make an on-time rental payment each month, and that helps increase your credit score.

Show Credit Bureaus What They Are Looking For

What elements do credit bureaus use to determine credit scores? Here’s one example from Experian:

Paying rent fits under the “payment history” category. When you pay rent online, those payments become part of your payment history. As you pay on time and in full and continue to do so, that reflects in your credit score, too.

Use a Credit Card Specifically for Rental Payments

Here’s a great tip: “Open a credit card and use it to pay your rent . . . then pay your credit card balance in full each month,” says LaToya Irby, credit expert for The Balance. “The timely credit card payments will help boost your credit score.”

You may have seen people use a credit card exclusively to pay for gas so they can get rewards points, and this is a similar principle: paying rent with a credit card just for the credit boost! You don’t have to pay your rent with a credit card, but it can increase your credit score in combination with the benefits of paying your rent online.

Increase your credit score by paying your rent online through the resident portal . This will ensure your payments are reported to credit bureaus, showing them exactly what they are looking for. Plus, if you choose to pay rent with a credit card, you may increase your score even more. Happy credit-score-boosting!

At Villa Serrano Apartments, It Has Never Been Easier to Go Green

Fri, 28 May 2021 03:14:00 GMT

Did you know that the average family can waste 180 gallons per week , or 9,400 gallons of water annually, from household leaks? That’s the same amount of water needed to wash more than 300 loads of laundry. This is only one of many ways that water is wasted. Currently, 3.6 billion of the global population lives in areas where water is scarce. Southern California is one of the many places prone to water scarcity.

Here at Villa Serrano Apartments , we want to do all we can to protect the environment and promote sustainable living—not just by preserving water, but also by reducing unnecessary waste. Here are three ways we have chosen to go green at Villa Serrano.

Saving on Water

Since Anaheim is prone to droughts, we have done all that we can to do our part in conserving water. We have taken action by creating a landscaping system that reduces the amount we use to keep our apartments looking beautiful. This has been done by using plants like succulents that use much less water. We have also implemented a drip irrigation system and have replaced some of our mulch and grass areas with stone. Because of this, we have been able to conserve thousands of gallons of water!

We have also been conserving water indoors. Most toilets use about 3.5 gallons of water every time they flush, but not ours! We have low-flow toilets , which use about 20 percent less water than regular toilets. Surprisingly, each low-flow toilet can save up to 13,000 gallons of water per year.

Saving on Paper and Plastic

At Villa Serrano Apartments, we go paperless by doing everything online (rent payments, service requests, applications, and notices). This action has significantly reduced paper waste while also increasing convenience to our residents.

In our community, we strive to provide quality services to help make your life as a resident a little easier. Visit our new resident portal to pay your rent online, enter a maintenance service request, browse our calendar for upcoming activities, and much more!

In addition to our resident portal, we have a water bottle refill station on the property, significantly reducing the waste from plastic water bottles and helping us in our efforts to go green.

Encouraging Recycling

One of the best ways to go green is to recycle. We have provided recycling bins in our office, available to all residents to use at any time. We have also provided a list of things to recycle and not recycle in order to help us all do our best in our efforts to go green.

Here in Anaheim, you can take your recycling to SA Recycling . This small effort to recycle can help our planet in very big ways.

We’re Excited to Announce Organic Waste Recycling!

Organic waste recycling will be coming soon to our local community, and we can’t wait to participate! This initiative will help keep millions of pounds of food waste out of landfills and turn them into compost and renewable natural gas. You can learn more about organic waste recycling her e . We’ll keep you up to date as this program expands throughout the state.

We care a lot about the earth, and that’s why we are doing everything that we can to conserve and go green. If you are looking for a place that cares about saving the earth as much as you do, Villa Serrano Apartments is the perfect place for you!

Looking for Anaheim Apartments? Here’s Why Villa Serrano Is the Perfect Choice

Fri, 30 Apr 2021 17:18:00 GMT

There is so much to love about Anaheim! Whether it’s the weather, the beaches, or the theme parks that draw you, living in this magical city is a no-brainer for a lot of people. In fact, it was even at #22 for the best cities in America for outdoor activities !

Oftentimes, one of the downfalls to such a popular city is finding a place to live. When it comes to perfect Anaheim apartments, Villa Serrano should be your first choice. These beautiful apartment homes sport terrific amenities, plenty of floor-plan choices, and an excellent location. Read more about what makes Villa Serrano so special!

Glamorous Living Space

Our one-, two-, and three-bedroom floor plans are newly updated and feature some of the most important creature comforts. Every unit is equipped with stainless steel appliances, electric range/oven, dishwasher, garbage disposal, custom cabinets, ceiling fans, urban wood-style flooring, quartz countertops, vertical blinds, and air conditioning.

Not only are the apartments on the cutting edge of style, but they also feature the best in smart-home experience. With a Nest thermostat and a Ring doorbell, you are ready to control your comfort right from your phone!

Terrific Amenities

Villa Serrano is proud to be a pet-friendly community! Pets are part of the family, and we make sure to provide you and your furry friends with everything you need to live the happiest life possible. Our community is full of fun amenities for you to enjoy, including the following:

Because we are located in Orange County, that means we have easy access to several fun attractions as well. With Disneyland set to open in April and Knott’s Berry Farm set to open in May , you will be able to easily visit some of the happiest places on Earth in less than 30 minutes. Plus, our fitness center is officially open to all of our residents.

In addition to the fantastic amenities we have here at West Fifth, you will also have access to an on-site maintenance team to help with any issues you may have. Our maintenance team regularly receives raving reviews, and we are so happy to have them here to help our residents.

Look no further for your perfect Anaheim apartment! Villa Serrano offers everything you need and more! It’s our goal to make coming home the best part of your day. Reach out today to schedule a tour or learn more about the benefits of living in our community.

Support These Local Restaurants in Anaheim

Sat, 13 Mar 2021 00:17:00 GMT

According to the national census , Anaheim is one of the most diverse cities in California: 42 percent of the population is Hispanic, 24 percent Caucasian, 15 percent Asian, and 3 percent Black. Together, these different ethnic groups bring a lot of individuality, history, and culture to the city. And, of course, a big part of a culture is food. Global Gastros states, “Sharing food with people you love solidifies the connection you have.”

Let’s dive right into some diverse family-inspired local restaurants for you to enjoy. Hungry in Anaheim? Our team at Villa Serrano Apartment Homes has some unique and tasty suggestions for you to eat well and support local restaurants.

Thuyền Viên Vegetarian Restaurant

Vietnamese food is quickly becoming a fan favorite in the United States. There is something sure to delight even the pickiest of eaters with stand-out dishes such as classic pho, bánh mì, and fresh spring rolls. The draw is in fresh, often locally sourced ingredients, combined perfectly to create entreés with outstanding flavor. Located at 1740 S. Euclid Street, Thuyền Viên is the perfect traditional Vietnamese restaurant to frequent. The ambiance is no-nonsense. The food is affordable and abundant. The staff is friendly and efficient. Best of all, this is a family-owned restaurant, meaning mom, dad, brother, and sister all contribute and bring a sense of love, teamwork, and culture right to your backyard.

To start, sample the Jicama Rolls, which include steamed jicama, carrots, basil, and tofu, all wrapped in rice paper and served with a house-made peanut sauce. Next up, try the Royal Noodle Soup, which contains thick vermicelli noodles cooked with Thai chili, lemongrass, mushrooms, tofu, and soy beef. Drinks include classic Vietnamese coffee, coconut juice, house tea, and lemonade.

Thuyền Viên is open Wednesday through Monday from 4 p.m. until 8 p.m. for dine-in, take-out, and delivery.

Picante’s Taqueria

Next on our list of local restaurants for you to support in Anaheim is Picante’s Taqueria . Located at 907 S. Euclid Street, the eatery offers affordable entrées and fast service without all of the fluff. Fan favorites include the Burrito Mojado combo (which includes a wet burrito with rice, beans, cheese, onion, cilantro, and salsa) and the Quesadilla Ranchera (which includes rice, beans, tomato, onions, cilantro, and avocado). Prices range from $5 to $12/entrée.

Hours of operation are Tuesday through Sunday, 6 a.m. to 9 p.m., and Monday, 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Guests can currently choose to dine in or carry out.

China Kitchen

Last but not least on our list is China Kitchen , a self-described “bare-bones eatery” with classically inspired flavors. Popular entrées include the honey glazed walnut shrimp, which is subtly sweet and snappy; the pork steamed dumplings, boasting the optimal level of chewiness; and the chow mein, clean and classic. Where China Kitchen shines, however, is in their specialty drink menu. The milk tea is the stand-out choice, with the perfect amount of sweetness and a silky smooth texture.

Hours of operation are Monday through Friday from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m., and Saturday and Sunday from 1 p.m. to 11 p.m. The restaurant is currently open for dine-in, carry-out, and delivery.

Anaheim is more than just an entertainment hub. The local population is beautifully diverse, and the food is trendy. Whether it is Italian, Thai, Vietnamese, or Indian, something new is just around the corner.

Three Self-Improvement Tips for Setting Realistic Goals

Thu, 04 Feb 2021 21:29:00 GMT

After the ups and downs of 2020, 2021 has finally arrived! The new year is a time of resolutions and fresh starts, and there is no better year than 2021 to dream big. But setting goals can be daunting; the last thing you want to do is set a goal and be disappointed at the end of the year because you didn’t quite achieve it. Or get stuck in the planning phase because you can’t quite figure out what you want your goal to be.

But setting realistic goals isn’t impossible: Here are three tips for setting goals that will help you achieve your dreams in 2021.

Make It Relevant

The first step in setting a realistic goal is making sure that your goal is relevant to you. It is important to dream big, but you should be dreaming big about things that are important to you—that way, you will actually have the motivation to make your goal happen. If you choose a goal that matters to you and plays to your own particular strengths, then you are statistically more likely to achieve it .

One way to do this is to take some time and really think about where your interests lie—for example, have you always wanted to learn to knit or maybe travel the world? Brainstorm all of your passions , and they can help guide your focus to concrete goals for the year.

Make It Measurable

The next step in setting a realistic goal is to make the goal measurable. This means the goal has both clarity and a specific time frame. You have already brainstormed to figure out what you broadly want to achieve, so now is the time to make it specific.

Look at your broad goal and break down all of the smaller steps it takes to achieve it. Edward Locke, a psychologist and goals researcher, found that over 90 percent of the time , specific goals increased a person’s likelihood to reach their overall goal.

Once you have your smaller steps, set a time frame and deadline for each one. Being able to track your progress and aim for a set end date will make your goal much less overwhelming and motivate you to follow through.

Stay Accountable

Lastly, in order to set a realistic goal, you need a way to monitor your progress. There are many options available for accountability. The first is writing your goal down. “Seeing the goals and steps you have to take will keep you motivated and consistent to continue to work toward it,” explains Catherine Jackson, licensed psychologist .

Another great way to keep on track is to have a friend check up on you periodically. By telling a friend about your progress, you are both validating your goal and making sure you keep working toward it.

If you do both of these things together, you are setting yourself up for success. According to Dr. Gail Matthews, a clinical psychologist from Dominican University of California, “those who write down their goals and share their goals with a friend, as well as send weekly updates, were on average 33% more successful when it comes to accomplishing their stated goals compared to those who merely formulate goals.”

If you do all these things, then you are already on the right path for setting realistic goals! Stick to them, and there is no limit to what you can achieve!

What Villa Serrano Offers Pet Owners and Their Fluffy Friends

Thu, 31 Dec 2020 16:46:00 GMT

At Villa Serrano Apartments, we know that pets play a huge role in people’s lives everywhere. In fact, according to the 2019–2020 APPA National Pet Owners Survey , 67 percent of US households own a pet, which equates to 84.9 million homes.

If you are one of these lucky pet owners, we know it’s essential to find a home where all the members of your family will be happy. Villa Serrano Apartments make it easy for your furry friends to fit in, offering everything from pet-friendly courtyards to spacious floor plans. Let’s look at why pet-friendly communities mean so much and how Villa Serrano can help you and your family.

Pets Can Improve Your Health

There is no shortage of stress in the world today. What you might not know is that having a pet can reduce stress and loneliness . Having someone to take care of feels good and can promote happiness and joy. Your pet may also be the reason you get outside and exercise each day. Having fun with your fluffy friends is an easy way to stay fit! Having a community that accommodates these activities is more valuable than ever.

Room to Stretch Your Legs

Our floor plans will be perfect for you and your pets to relax and unwind. Then, when it’s time to burn some steam, head to our outdoor courtyards and roomy walking paths for an evening stroll or an early morning run. Pet Waste Stations are located throughout the community for your convenience.

If you feel a bit more adventurous, Maxwell Park is within walking distance and has ample room for running and playing. If it’s new friends you want, hop in the car and cruise up to the Fullerton Pooch Park that even has a designated area for smaller dogs.

A Home for Your Pets at Villa Serrano

We love pets here at Villa Serrano Apartment Homes! Here’s what else you need to know before bringing home your animal amigos:

Other questions about pets? Please see our management team. They are happy to answer your questions, and you can ask them for approval on additional or other pets.

At Villa Serrano, we welcome your pets and all they do for you and the community. They help keep us healthy and provide an excuse to get outside and enjoy nature. Reach out today if you have any questions!

Remember, Your Appliances Need Holiday Prep Time, Too

Thu, 05 Nov 2020 22:18:00 GMT

The holidays are just around the corner, and with these fun-filled times come new memories and traditions. Some of these traditions may include roasting the perfect Thanksgiving turkey, baking dozens of delicious holiday cookies, plugging in twinkling lights, flipping the thermostat from cold to heat for the first time, and even spending a few extra minutes warming up in a hot shower each morning.

However, you cannot do any of these things without the proper tools. What is often not planned for during the holiday season is when a household appliance breaks down and does not perform its job correctly. In a survey of more than 381,000 household appliances, Consumer Reports calculated that 6 percent of respondents reported having problems with cooking elements not lighting or heating up the way that they should, while 5 percent of people reported refrigerators that didn’t cool properly. An even larger 11 percent of people said that their dishwashers no longer cleaned their dishes fully.

Don’t let the need for appliance maintenance ruin your festivities. Add the following three items to your holiday checklist to ensure a truly magical season for you and your loved ones.

Avoid Breakdowns by Deep Cleaning Your Appliances

Many people use the holiday season as a time to deep clean their homes anyway. While you are at it, spend a little extra time cleaning and give your household appliances some extra attention.

Take some time in the coming days and weeks to perform some appliance maintenance. Pull the fridge away from the wall and clean out the dust from the mechanical coils . Deep clean your oven and stove top, making sure all of the heating elements and gas burners heat and ignite fully. In addition, clean your dishwasher by setting a single dishwasher-safe cup of white vinegar on the top rack and running a full cycle. Simply performing these extra steps will help to ensure that you have a happier, more stress-free holiday season this year.

Schedule a Cooking Test Run

Whether or not you have used your kitchen appliances recently, before the holidays is the perfect time to test them all out. A couple of weeks before beginning to prepare your holiday meal, turn the oven on to bake a casserole or batch of cookies. Then, test out the dishwasher by loading it up with all the dirty dishes and making sure everything comes out clean.

If there turns out to be any problems with these appliances, you’ll know well in advance and will have plenty of time to schedule an appointment for the appliances to be repaired before they need to be used again for holiday dinner.

Reach Out to Our Maintenance Crew

At Villa Serrano Apartments, we want to be sure your holiday celebrations are as magical and memory-filled as they can be. To help ensure that your holidays are full of joy and festivity, our on-site management and 24-hour maintenance teams are ready to help if you are having any sort of problems with your appliances. If you have discovered that your dishwasher or fridge is not working the way that it should, simply visit Villa Serrano’s Resident Portal and submit a work order. Our team will be happy to help and will schedule a time for the repair, getting you back on track to holiday happiness as soon as we can.

Avoid the extra stress of a broken appliance this holiday season by spending some extra time on appliance maintenance beforehand and remembering to reach out to our maintenance team as soon as repairs are needed for help getting those pesky appliances fixed and ready to go. The entire staff here at Villa Serrano sincerely wants your holiday to be filled with joy and warmth this year.

Want to Know Why You Should Rent? Here Are Three Reasons

Fri, 23 Oct 2020 20:09:00 GMT

The real estate market of today is vastly different from the market even 10 years ago. There are over 100 million people who rent their living space, whether that is a home, apartment, or other property. According to RentCafé, renters account for 34 percent of America’s general population, a number that is always increasing.

Not everyone chooses to rent for the same purpose, but all those who do rent get to take advantage of the many benefits of renting over buying. Curious why you should rent? Read on for three reasons why renting might be the option for you.

Costs Are Lower at the Beginning of and During the Process

Owning a home is expensive. There are many costs that come into play when keeping a home in working order, and when unexpected expenses arise, that cost creeps even higher. Maybe that’s why in 2019, 82 percent of renters said renting is more affordable than owning, jumping up from 67 percent the year before.

At the beginning of the process, your upfront costs are lower. The down payment on a home with a mortgage is usually at least 20 percent of the total purchase price. Renting only requires a security deposit that equates to the first month’s rent, which you even have the chance to get back when you move out.

Over time, the costs of owning a home build up too. Owning a home means you have to pay property taxes and expensive homeowners insurance. Renters insurance is much more affordable in comparison—according to a 2017 study by the Insurance Information Institute , the average renters insurance policy costs $180 per year, while the average homeowners policy costs $1,211.

Maintenance Is Not Your Responsibility

Sometimes life throws you a curveball. Literally. When something in your home breaks or you face an unexpected problem, it is comforting to know that you have someone behind you ready to help out . At Villa Serrano Apartments , renting means that your property will be repaired by a team of qualified, helpful professionals. When you report an issue, the team at Villa Serrano Apartment will set up a repair appointment so that you can get back to your daily routine in no time. That sounds much better than a DIY gone wrong, doesn’t it?

Freedom and Flexibility Are Priorities

One of the biggest reasons why you should rent is the flexibility it gives you to live where you need to. When you rent, you only have to fulfill your short lease, and then you are free to move around anywhere you like. Compared to a mortgage, which can tie you to a house for 30 years, your lease passes in the blink of an eye. “Regardless of age, mobility is one of the top reasons people decide to rent,” writes Robert Pinnegar at The Washington Post . “For millennials just entering the workforce or in the process of building their careers, the ability to relocate is a major factor. Even if they are in a financial position to purchase a home, millennials may choose to rent to have the flexibility to take advantage of new job opportunities as they arise.”

At Villa Serrano Apartments , we know that you may need to move around, although we don’t want you to go. What we do want is to make sure you are taken care of wherever you may move to. We instated our loyalty bonus just for that reason. If you move between AMC properties, we will give you $250 to give you a boost while you settle into your new space.

With lower costs, less responsibility, and more flexibility, the case for why you should rent is hopefully more clear. All these benefits and more are available to you at Villa Serrano Apartments , where we strive to make your living experience the best it can be; give us a visit and see why you should rent with us today.

Our Top Four Ice Cream Shop Choices Near Anaheim

Thu, 03 Sep 2020 17:26:00 GMT

August is one of the hottest and most humid months of the year, so if you’re in desperate need of a cold treat, we can help. Here are our favorite local ice cream shops in Anaheim and the surrounding area that we think you’ll love. And with the state regulations closing down indoor service , these shops could use your support.

Joe’s Italian Ice

Joe’s Italian Ice prides itself on creating the fruitiest Italian ice paired with the creamiest ice cream shipped from a dairy in Pennsylvania. All recipes originate in the restaurant’s laboratory kitchen and are sold exclusively at the shop. If you are craving an icy treat, this is the place to visit.

House of Chimney Cakes

Located south of Villa Serrano Apartments, House of Chimney Cakes serves a Hungarian dessert called Kürtöskalács. It consists of freshly baked Hungarian sweet bread shaped like a cylinder and topped with delicious ice cream. The shop offers a variety of flavors: Oreo Overload, S’mores, All-American Apple Pie, Everyday Birthday Cake, and more! If your taste buds are salivating for the combination of a crispy cake with a doughy middle and a scoop of delicious ice cream, this is your spot.

Baskin Robbins

Just a short walk away from the community, Baskin Robbins is a traditional ice cream shop that can cure your late-night sweet tooth cravings. Their hours are 11:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. If you aren’t feeling up to going out, take advantage of DoorDash and get your creamy dessert delivered straight to your apartment.

Frostbites Crepes & Frozen Delights

Frostbites Crepes & Frozen Delights is a favorite of many. With almost five stars on Yelp and over 1,800 reviews, you know the treats there ought to be good. We recommend ordering their sorbet cream, which consists of fresh Italian ice layered with premium ice cream. Customers select an ice cream base and then can choose as many mix-in flavors as they want. For our more adventurous residents, consider getting a sweet crepe (served hot right off the griddle) and top it with cream. You’re welcome!

As summer is ending and the hot weather is staying, we could all cool off with some frozen desserts. Visit one of these local ice cream shops near Anaheim for a sweet treat! The store owners (and your taste buds) will love you!

Paying Rent Online: The Shortcut to Improved Credit

Sat, 08 Aug 2020 08:44:00 GMT

Are you struggling to qualify for a loan? Are interest and insurance rates higher than you can handle? It sounds like your credit score isn’t where you need it to be— and that can make life rough . Luckily, we’ve got an easy fix that you may already have started on: paying rent online! In one study , renters who included their rent payments to credit bureaus saw an average credit score increase of 16 points within six months. Those with a credit score below 620 saw the greatest benefit.

Paying rent online is a simple way to lay up change for a better future. Here’s what you need to know about what goes into a credit score, how paying rent online helps, and how you can boost the effect.

What Goes into a Credit Score?

While your credit score will vary depending on who you ask, credit bureaus look at the same general components :

As we’ll see later on, those last two components can be satisfied by paying rent online.

How Does Paying Rent Online Help?

Paying your rent doesn’t do anything for your credit if the credit bureaus don’t know it happened. “But reporting your rent payments can help you build credit—especially if you are new to credit or do not have a lot of experience using it,” says Bev O’Shea at NerdWallet.

Paying your rent online is the easiest way to ensure credit bureaus know about your payment. At Villa Serrano, our online rental payment system reports your payments directly to the credit bureaus every time you pay. In order to opt in for the credit reporting, follow these steps:

How Can I Do Better?

Want to sweeten the deal? Use a credit card when paying rent online. “Open a credit card and use it to pay your rent . . . then pay your credit card balance in full each month,” says LaToya Irby, credit expert for The Balance. “The timely credit card payments will help boost your credit score.”

Ready to improve your credit score? Now that you know what goes into a credit score, how paying rent online helps, and how you can boost the effect, you should be set to start paying rent online. Use our resident portal and start today!

The Benefits of Having Good Friends

Fri, 24 Jul 2020 18:22:00 GMT

July 30 is International Day of Friendship . Proclaimed in 2011 by the UN General Assembly, this day recognizes that “friendship between peoples, countries, cultures and individuals can inspire peace efforts and build bridges between communities.”

At Villa Serrano Apartments, we couldn’t agree more. Here are just three of the benefits of having good friends.

Good Mental Health

It’s amazing what good friends can do for your peace of mind. According to the Mayo Clinic , friends support mental health by doing the following:

In one study , researchers specifically looked at how friendship during adolescence impacted long-term mental health. They found that individuals who prioritized friendship when they were 15 “tended to have lower social anxiety, a higher sense of self-worth, and fewer depressive symptoms by the age of 25, compared with their counterparts who did not prioritize such friendships.”

Good Physical Health

Not only will good friends make your time on Earth happier, but they can make it longer as well . In one study, researchers found that “having few or no close friends increased the risk of having a first-time heart attack by about 50 percent.” Another study produced similar results, further finding that “women who enjoyed close support were not only more likely to be alive after two years, they also had lower rates of high blood pressure and diabetes and were less likely to have excessive abdominal fat.”

While the reasons aren’t entirely clear, what is known is that friends influence our decisions. For example, Current Opinion in Psychiatry reported in 2008 that “people are more likely to eat fruits and vegetables, exercise regularly, and successfully quit smoking if they have a network of friends and family.” And that could be due in part to our final point.

Sounding Board

Having a sounding board—someone who will listen to and care about the things we say, then offer feedback—can assist us with both our mental and physical health. “The point of it is that there are countless thoughts that careen through our heads everyday [sic], some of them are nice, some of them are inappropriate and some may not even have any provocation and no basis in the real world,” says Michael Hedrick at Psych Central . “The great thing about having a person who will listen is that there’s essentially no judgment about what you say.”

We could all use the support of a friend right now. This International Day of Friendship, take some time to appreciate the benefits of having good friends, and show your appreciation by being a good friend in return.

Give Back to Nature during Our Beach and Park Cleanup in Anaheim

Tue, 14 Jul 2020 21:22:00 GMT

Sometimes, a walk in the park or a run on the beach is just what the doctor ordered. But even the smallest piece of trash can take away from that experience. That’s why AMC has dedicated time every summer to an annual beach and park cleanup—to ensure our beautiful state stays beautiful and feels like home.

Join us for our beach and park cleanup in Anaheim on July 25. This year’s cleanup may look different, but we can still gather in spirit to beautify our community. Here is how a beach and park cleanup helps everyone, how to plan, and how to keep yourself and others safe.

Help Yourself and Others with a Beach and Park Cleanup

In addition to protecting wildlife, clean beaches and parks are a boon to local economies. According to the Marine Debris Program , “Reducing marine debris even by 25 percent at beaches in and near Orange County could benefit residents roughly $32 million during three months in the summer.”

Best of all, for those of us who’ve struggled emotionally and mentally during quarantine, a beach and park cleanup can lift our spirits. One study found that beach activities improve moods, while beach cleanups have the added benefit of “higher marine awareness.”

Plan Your Beach and Park Cleanup

Circle July 25—or any day in July that works for you—on your calendar, and start preparing. The worst thing would be to cut your beach and park cleanup short because you forgot the necessary supplies. Water and sunscreen should top your list, but bring the following as well:

Follow Safety Regulations

COVID-19 has changed how we do just about everything these days, and your cleanup is no exception. Limit your group to your immediate family or roommates. If other people do come, follow CDC guidelines by keeping your distance and avoiding close contact. And don’t forget California’s mask mandate : Wear your mask “when maintaining a physical distance of 6 feet from persons who are not members of the same household or residence is not feasible.”

Our beaches and parks do so much to make our state beautiful. Let’s ensure they stay that way.

Join us for our beach and park cleanup on July 25, or anytime during the month of July! Tag Villa Serrano in your photos and use the hashtags #AMCcleanup and #livehappy so we can see what you’ve done. Our community’s looking better already!

4 Items That Will Make Your Apartment Feel Like Home

Fri, 29 May 2020 21:05:00 GMT

Welcome to your new apartment! Finally, you’ve unpacked everything, your furniture is put in place, and the bed is set up and ready for a long, well-earned rest.

The satisfaction of moving in may carry you for days or even weeks, but sooner or later, you start to feel as though something is missing. Your new apartment has everything you need, sure, but does it really feel like home?

If you’ve been feeling this way, don’t worry. It doesn’t take extensive renovations or expensive appliances to fill that hole. You can make your new apartment feel like home with only a few small adjustments—adjustments that you can make all at once or over time. Here are four simple items that will make your apartment feel like home without breaking the bank.

Art

The key to turning your space into a home is to give it touches that are unique to your personality. Art is the easiest way to do just that. It could be mementos of your past, work by favorite artists, or even photos of friends and families. Whatever it is, choose items that make you happy. If you really want to take full advantage of the space , consider selecting art that fits a theme or color.

Plants

Not only are plants a chance to practice taking care of a living thing, but they also look great in any living space. Research has shown that indoor plants benefit us in many ways, from improving concentration to aiding in stress management. If you doubt your ability to keep something alive, start out small with a low-maintenance plant like a succulent, or fake it till you make it with an artificial plant.

Lighting

When you move in, your apartment’s overhead lighting will be enough to get the basic job done. However, if you want to control the mood in your apartment and add some variety, buy some extra lighting . A floor lamp in the corner or a small lamp on an end table can make a huge difference. You can even make a room feel bigger and brighter by hanging a mirror directly opposite a window.

Curtains

Though your apartment already came with Venetian or vertical blinds to cover your windows, you don’t need to leave them as is. Adding curtains is a great way to reframe a window with a personal flare and add a splash of color.

Nowhere feels like home from the moment you move in. It takes time and intentional effort to transform a space and make it your own. Start with the simple touches we’ve discussed—art, plants, lighting, and curtains—and your apartment will feel more like home with every day that passes.

3 Activities for Kids on Memorial Day

Thu, 21 May 2020 16:53:00 GMT

With COVID-19 still sweeping through the US, you can expect that this will be a Memorial Day like none other. This year, for the first time since 1946, the Indianapolis 500 won’t run on Memorial Day, and states are canceling events left and right. But that doesn’t mean you and your family are without recourse for the three-day weekend.

This year, you should take some time to teach your kids about what the holiday is all about: the people who gave their lives so we can be free here in the US. Here are three activities you can do at home to not only help your kids learn but get them into the spirit of the holiday.

Get the history books out.

It is super easy to forget why we celebrate Memorial Day . As George Santayana once said, “Those who cannot remember the past are condemned to repeat it.” There are plenty of videos online and books you can download that teach kids about the sacrifices that were made. If you’ve had parents or relatives serve, this is a great chance to dive into family history and connect your children with past generations. Talk about great-granddad’s service in World War II or grandma’s time in the marines. A familial connection will bring the holiday and history alive.

Send a letter to a soldier overseas.

A care package or even a simple thank-you letter could mean the world to a soldier who works hard to protect our freedoms, especially if they are overseas and far from their own families. It’s the perfect way to show appreciation. If you don’t know anyone who is currently serving, there are plenty of nonprofit organizations that have dedicated their time to this effort, such as Any Soldier , A Million Thanks , and the USO Care Package program.

Watch a parade.

Parades and Memorial Day go hand in hand. Unfortunately, just like the Indi 500, parades have been put on hold for the time being. Thanks to the internet, though, you and your family can still enjoy a memorial parade online. Get your kids together in the living room, turn on the computer, and watch a parade from yesteryear. You can find many on YouTube, or perhaps you have a recording of one you’ve personally attended.

This will truly be a Memorial Day unlike any other, and we’ll remember it for years to come. It’s up to you how you and your children will remember this one. Take these three suggestions, or apply a little imagination to make memories your families will cherish forever.

How Being a Good Neighbor Benefits Your Life and Your Community

Sun, 03 May 2020 23:57:00 GMT

Do you know what type of neighbor you are? Do you watch television late at night? Do you sometimes ask to borrow some baking supplies? Do you leave your pet’s poop or pee on the lawn so that your neighbors can get a smell of it at the start of their day?

Hopefully, you are not a fan of at least one of those above. If there are things you can improve on, here are four pointers on how being a good neighbor benefits your life and your community.

You’ll feel safer.

Being a good neighbor means that you know the surrounding tenants and show kindness to them. This encourages your neighbors to look after your apartment when you are not around or even warn you if there’s any suspicious activity near your parked car. In other words, they will have your back!

Your social connections will get bigger.

It is so much fun to have your friends close to you. Getting to know your neighbors could mean more pool parties, barbecue cookouts, dinner groups, and game nights in your life. Interacting with people around you can help you build lifelong friendships that otherwise wouldn’t have happened.

You’ll get a support system.

Not all people have family to turn to in times of need. You might be the type of person that is attending school or working away from home. Maybe your family isn’t very close. Whatever your situation is, and whether you need some advice, a favor, or a babysitter, being a good neighbor and forming close friendships will give you an immediate group that you can rely on. The next time you have a bad day, you’ll know where you can turn.

You’ll live a happy and healthy life.

According to research , friendships have an impact on our overall health as much as getting enough sleep and refraining from smoking. Social connections are known for reducing stress, which in return can improve your heart health and immune system. A lack of social interaction can have the opposite effect on our health and lead to an increase in depression. If you want to be happier and healthier, start by being a good neighbor and increasing your social connections.

Being a good neighbor and helping others helps you in return. You’ll feel safer, expand your friendships, develop a support system, and experience happiness and good health. The next time a new family moves in or someone in your community needs help, don’t be afraid to reach out. There are many benefits that could come from it!

Looking for the Recipe to Healthy and Happy Living? Try Being More Kind.

Thu, 26 Mar 2020 23:26:00 GMT

The post Looking for the Recipe to Healthy and Happy Living? Try Being More Kind. appeared first on Villa Serrano Apartments.

The Surprisingly Wonderful Benefits of Rental Living

Tue, 25 Feb 2020 20:43:00 GMT

If you are considering moving into an apartment, you are not alone. Experts estimate there are just over 43 million renter-occupied housing units in the US. And while renters are renting for a variety of reasons, there are some common perks that renters enjoy.

Here are four of the most common benefits of rental living.

1. Location, location, location

Sometimes, the easiest way to live close to the communities you frequent isn’t to buy property, but to rent. “Renters can live virtually anywhere—a tiny apartment in Greenwich Village or a townhouse in Queens,” says professor of economics Teresa Ghilarducci . “Homeowners are more restricted to neighborhoods they can afford.”

There are certainly times when paying rent over is more expensive than paying a mortgage. For example, many renters will see their lease increase the moment their contract is up for renewal. But in some cases, experts say there are financial advantages to renting in desired locations rather than trying to buy property. “If you live in a market where you can rent an apartment for substantially less per month than you could own a home, you can invest the difference,” explains David Weliver , founder of Money Under 30. “The difference doesn’t have to be huge.”

Weliver presented an example like this: If you compare $1,000 rent per month versus a $1,300 mortgage payment on a comparable home, that generates $3,600 each year that you can save or invest. “And, unlike home equity, those savings are liquid,” added Weliver. “You can use them to build an emergency fund, pay down student loan debt, or fund a retirement account. None of which you can do with home equity.”

2. Awesome amenities

Most of us haven’t included installing an in-ground pool on our to-do list. But that doesn’t mean we wouldn’t enjoy having access to recreational amenities like a swimming pool, a fitness center, or tennis courts. And today’s rental properties are offering even more options to entice would-be renters.

Some of the more popular features include onsite laundry facilities or a washer and dryer within the unit. Many offer cable or satellite television and free Wi-Fi. Others offer fully-furnished units. And as a person just starting out on their own, having options for these types of services can help the transition to apartment living.

3. Flexible career options

The workplace model is changing, with more employees at varying job levels working from their homes. Experts estimate that almost half of the US workforce works remotely. But that also means employees are more mobile. And that is where the convenience of renting a home or apartment works well. Renting gives workers the freedom to move more frequently than they could otherwise. Additionally, some apartment communities offer amenities for workers. In some of our communities, for example, we offer dedicated workspaces, perfect for individuals who work remotely.

Have job, will travel. That’s an effective way to set the pace for job promotion or move to a better job opportunity should the need arise. “You need to be able to credibly leave a job to be well treated by employers,” says Ghilarducci . “Mobile workers can move for a pay raise or to make a career move.”

4. A sense of community

There are varying degrees of socializing among renters. You can be as social or reclusive as you choose; the fact remains that you are sharing common space with other people. Whether it’s the parking lot, the pool area, or the fitness center, apartment living offers a unique opportunity to befriend your neighbors.

“Apartment buildings draw an array of residents and visitors. Your neighbors, their families, their friends, their delivery people, and anyone offering an at-home service will pass through your shared entryway. Your children will learn to share a space with these people—and perhaps even open the door for them,” says Natalie Saaris , writing for Zillow. “While living in an apartment may deprive you of the privacy of a standalone home, the feeling of community may more than compensate for the loss.”

Whether your apartment is a temporary arrangement or a permanent decision, the benefits of apartment living offer pleasant and financially strategic opportunities for you.

Reasons Why Setting Goals is a Good Thing

Fri, 24 Jan 2020 15:03:00 GMT

Don’t let New Year’s resolution failure fool you. Setting goals is a good thing.

Let’s talk about goals.

Wait! Not New Year’s resolutions. I mean regular, everyday goal setting; those goals that you can (and should) start at any time. Although around 80 percent of us fail to achieve our New Year’s resolutions, setting a goal—a SMART goal—will make you feel better. And in some cases, literally.

A SMART goal is a task based on something Specific, Meaningful, Achievable, Realistic, and Timely. And while resolutions may bite the dust two months after we set them in place, the truth is that almost half of us (40 to 45 percent) continue to make goals for ourselves each year.

We, as humans, struggle with following through on New Year’s resolutions. But the practice of continually setting goals is a good thing. Here are six reasons why.

Do you know how it feels to merely coast through life, where you find yourself simply reacting to things? When you target your energies into achieving a specific goal, you are forcing action.

“ Goal setting helps you align focus with behavior because you get feedback on your progress,” says Forbes contributor Jeff Boss . “The actions you take—or avoid—offer clues about your values, beliefs, challenges, strengths and weaknesses which allow you to course correct as necessary and reset your goal achievement strategy (and subsequently, your focus).”

Goals that truly make an impact are those that are specific and follow a timeline toward completion. For example, instead of making a goal to be thinner, a well-thought-out goal will include a series of smaller goals that encourage weight loss and are arranged over a month, a year, or two even years.

“ Think of your goal as the destination. Now think of each step you take toward that goal as a smaller yet attainable step to get you there,” explains Dave Richards , a performance and leadership coach. “If your goal is to launch a business someday, your smaller steps would include defining your products or services or getting funds to start up.”

There is no better feeling than one of accomplishment. And when you set attainable goals, your success at achieving those goals is an incredible boost to your self-esteem. Keep in mind the operative word here is “attainable.”

“By setting goals and achieving them, you send a signal to your brain that you are successful which builds confidence and pride in yourself and that helps build your self-esteem,” says Jennifer Silvershein . “We all love to feel accomplished and meeting or exceeding your goals does just that.”

By setting up a primary goal, which is your main objective, and secondary goals, which are the stepping stones that move you toward your primary goal, Silvershein believes “you can set yourself up for success with the right mindset and the right tools.”

This process of identifying a primary goal that’s supported by secondary goals boosts your self-image. But it can also stave off mild forms of depression. “ Setting goals and targets can sometimes help when a person is feeling demotivated,” reports Jayne Leonard . “However, it is important to make sure that goals are achievable, specific, and realistic.”

For instance, a goal to no longer be depressed may not be all that successful as a stand-alone goal. But setting a goal that is proven to help treat minor forms of depression, such as to eat two servings of fruits and vegetables every day or exercise daily, makes reducing or eliminating depression an added benefit to your primary goal, which may be losing twenty pounds. This brings us to the next benefit: your health.

Of Inc.com’s ten top New Year’s resolutions of 2019, five dealt with improving our health. So while we may not always follow through on those resolutions, they are certainly on our minds. In fact, out of the 2,000 people surveyed, 71 percent of them wanted to eat healthier in the coming year. Sixty-five percent of those surveyed planned to exercise more, and over half (54 percent) hoped to lose weight. Whether you are a fan of New Year’s resolutions or not, making conscious goals about lifestyle changes will have a positive impact on your overall health.

“Staying engaged in life as you age is essential for your health,” say experts at Harvard Health . “Goals should revolve around a purpose in your life: What matters to you now? What is important?” Once again, setting up a SMART goal will help connect your goals with a meaningful outcome within a specified amount of time. And when it comes to goals about your health, the end result feels great.

Let’s consider for a moment what the process of setting goals is doing. According to research by goal-setting theorists Edwin Locke and Gary Latham, goals not only affect behavior and work performance, but they also ignite a desire to put forth a higher and more persistent effort. And because with every action there’s a reaction, people around you are impacted by your efforts.

For example, if your goals are to be more productive and efficient at work and to manage your time better, you’ll likely return home sooner. Depending on what goals you’ve made regarding your habits at home, your family will benefit from the time you are able to spend with them. Perhaps you’ve made a goal to be more patient or a better listener. Those efforts impact others.

You will likely see similar positive effects if you have a goal to volunteer in your child’s school every month or plant a vegetable garden and share your harvest with neighbors. And as the cycle of goal-setting continues, you’ll be motivated to set more goals because of the positive feedback you receive from those who’ve benefited from your efforts. See? Win-win.

Don’t let the bad publicity surrounding resolutions fool you. Setting goals is a good thing. Nothing else is more effective and empowering than setting goals that improve your health, quality of life, focus, and contributions to the things you care about most. So let’s hear it for the new year and make it a goal to ensure it’s the best one ever.