Preparing to Rent in Clarksville TN? We Welcome You.

Preparing to Rent in Clarksville TN? We Welcome You.

If you have recently arrived in Clarksville, TN Millan Enterprises would like to issue you a warm welcome! You probably have a few questions about how to rent in Clarksville, and we can help with that! We think of Clarksville as a “small, big town” – highlighting all the urban conveniences and comforts of a large city, but with a friendly, small-town feel you’re sure to fall in love with. If you’re still not sure whether you should move to Clarksville or not, we’ve got 3 big reasons for you!
<img src="ClarksvilleCityHall.JPG" alt="Downtown Clarksville TN at Dusk with City Hall in Background">

Downtown Clarksville at dusk is a beautiful thing to behold!

Clarksville, TN is a melting pot of people from all over the country, and the world, making it a unique and exciting place to live. You’ll never run out of things to do, Clarksville hosts a wide range of pastimes and attractions with abundant shopping, dining, and entertainment!

If you are planning to rent in Clarksville TN, our experienced and friendly Property Managers have a few tips and recommendations for you.

  1. Conducting a little independent homework before contacting a rental agency can go a long way. Knowing what you’re looking for in advance can be massively beneficial to you and your agent. Experienced agents will know what to ask to help you find your ideal rental situation but it is always helpful if you have done some initial research. You’ll want to be able to answer questions including ideal home size, desired number of bedrooms/baths, size of yard, preferred neighborhood, schools, etc.
  2. We recommend visiting some neighborhoods in advance to save time in the selection process. Determining areas of town that you like and dislike will help guide your agent in the selection process.
  3. It’s imperative to know how much you can afford. A common rule of thumb is that your rent should not be more than one-third of your total monthly take-home pay. You will still need money for groceries, gas, etc., so be sure you know what you can budget for housing.
  4. It’s important to make sure you understand the various associated costs upfront. Individuals new to the rental scene may be surprised to learn that they will typically need to pay the first and last month’s rent, along with a security deposit, which is typically the same amount as the rent. So, if your rent is going to be $1,000, you may need to come up with $3,000 before you can move in. You will also need deposits for utilities, internet, and other assorted services you may want.
  5. Please read your rental agreements! Taking the time to read through all of the rental agreements will help you know what you are committing to in advance and will help you avoid potential future problems.

Please contact us when you are ready to start looking for a home to rent in Clarksville, TN. We will be happy to help you with these and other common questions and again, welcome!

128 N. Second St. Building Renovation

128 N. Second St. Building Renovation

In the heart of Downtown Clarksville, 128 N. Second Street is a hub for many local businesses. This historic building has been completely renovated to include the addition of 28 offices, common lounge areas, and additional restroom facilities.  This renovation was completed in the summer of 2018. The design concept of the bathroom renovation completely changed the style, bringing what was once an outdated look into the modern century.

Bathroom Remodel Clarksville TN

First Floor Bathroom

Millan Enterprises’ design team constructed the design concept for the bathroom from the ground up. This bathroom provides a modern/industrial style that our tenants can utilize while working throughout the week. 

The top half of the walls are painted Sherwin Williams Analytical Grey,  creating a contrast between the subway tiles and paint. With an abundant amount of natural light available, a few light fixtures were placed to bring in the industrial aesthetic of the bathroom, increasing the concept of open space. The flooring is laid with a slate grey tile that compliments the other features throughout the restroom.  

Second Floor Bathroom

The renovation of the second floor bathroom included paint, new light fixtures, new plumbing fixtures,  and updated flooring.   The base of the countertops were stained a deep brown (Minwax in Jacobean) , and a new countertop brings in an industrial aesthetic. Additionally, the new sinks and faucets add the perfect touch of modern application. One of the most significant changes in the bathroom includes tile flooring. Our construction team resurfaced the upstairs bathroom tiles with commercial epoxy paints to liven up the area, allowing it to be cleaner and more durable.  

Millan Enterprises is always looking for ways to make our tenants happy, both commercial and residential. With the updated bathroom on the second floor and an added bathroom on the first floor in North Second St. Building, this provides a great amenity for our commercial tenants. Interested in leasing a commercial property from us?  Check out our availability on our website. 

Why Is First Impression Important in Business?

Why Is First Impression Important in Business?

How to Attract your Customers By First Appearances

“You don’t get a second first impression, so make it count.” Many have heard this saying time and time again. A series of experiments by Princeton psychologists Janine Willis and Alexander Todorov reveal that it takes a tenth of a second to form an impression of a stranger from their face. Now, we are not trying to scare you with this experiment but open your eyes to how to enhance your business’s chance of attracting customers. After all, there is no “Second Impression”.

Make A Good First Impression
Photo by Canva

Curb Appeal 
Before customers come inside your commercial building, they have the opportunity to window shop before deciding if they want to go in. Giving your business an uplift on your curb appeal is a must. This can spark a person’s impression for a good first appearance. 

Here are four ways to help increase your curb appeal: 

  • Creative window displays.
  • Signage – Make sure it is easy for your customers to locate you in a sea of businesses. 
  • Building maintenance – Stay on top of your building’s regular maintenance; no one wants to walk in with dirty windows and paint peeling off the walls.
  • Landscape.

Related: The Comeback of the Brick-and-Mortar Store

The Interaction
Now that your customers have made it into your business, the next step is the interaction. Developing a relationship with your customers will be valuable in the development of your business. Customers value five things: reliability, assurance, empathy, and responsiveness. Customers want to know that the business is dependable, has trustworthy services, and upholds what has been promised. Customers want to know they have made the right choice to do business with the company. They want to be understood and shown attentiveness. Being a business that exemplifies these five things to their customers will be sure to leave them with a good impression. 

Related: 7 Ways to Make Every Interaction With Customers Fantastic

Staying Connected
You got them into the building, you lived up to their expectations, and now you need to give the option for them to stay connected with you. Staying connected with your customers helps to keep your customers and potentially get new ones. 

Here are four ways to stay connected with your customers:

  • Offer a newsletter for your business.
  • Create a blog for your business – Provide insight to your customers on services and topics relevant to your business.
  • Be present on social media.
  • Offer customer feedback surveys – Customers like to know their opinions matter and are heard.

How would you increase your business’ chances in attracting customers on first appearance? Let us know by leaving a comment! 

Top 10 Questions to Ask at a Showing

Top 10 Questions to Ask at a Showing

We all know apartment hunting can be both stressful and tedious. To make sure you find your perfect home, Millan Enterprises leasing department has compiled a list of questions to ask when viewing a house.

Rental Home
Photo by: Canva
  1. Are utilities included?

Utilities may or may not be included in the cost of rent, depending on the building or company. It is common for water to be factored in with the monthly rent charge, but, the tenant may be responsible for electricity and gas. If you have questions regarding monthly billing for utilities not included, it is best to contact your local provider for an estimate.

2. How much will it cost to move in?

The process to move in differs from company to company. Be sure to ask:

  • Do you require a security deposit? If so, how much?
  • Is there an application fee or administrative fee?
  • Are there any additional fees to be paid before the lease is signed?

3. What is the surrounding area like?

Neighborhood
Photo by: Canva

The best way to ensure you rent a property that you feel safe in, is to check the crime statistics and scope out the surrounding neighborhoods. Prior to your showing, Millan Enterprises suggest you research the neighborhood and surrounding areas for crime rates, school zones, and community location. During your showing, your leasing agent should be able to speak more on the closest parks and recreation for your convenience.

“We recommend driving by the property during the day and night to get a better idea of how the neighborhood functions and the way traffic flows .”

Christina Hayes, Millan Enterprises, Office Manager

4. What is the parking like?

Understanding the parking situation is important, especially if you share a parking lot with other tenants. Some areas require parking fees or permits while other locations allow you to park wherever you like.

5. Can I make any changes to the property?

It is understandable that you may want to add a personal touch to your potential new home. But, before you start choosing paint colors or deciding where to hang your favorite painting make sure to speak with the landlord or property management company about the policies regarding decorating.

6. Are there any penalties for breaking the lease ?

Sometimes, life happens and you find yourself needing to break your lease contract. It’s best to ask what the policy is for terminating your lease. While most landlords allow early termination from your lease, you need to be prepared for any financial obligations.

7. Do you allow pets? If so, are there any breed restrictions or pet fees required?

Dog at front door
Photo by: Canva

We understand that your pets are family too, so it is important to find out what the policy is. If the rental home or apartment does allow pets, find out if there is a pet deposit, restrictions on the number of pets, as well as any breed restrictions.

8. Do you offer renewal options?

Some landlords or property management companies have certain guidelines regarding their renewal process. Unfortunately, some may or may not notify of your lease expiration date, so its best to know your options early. In many instances, its common for the tenant to have the option to sign another long term contract or choose to go month to month.

9. How are repairs and maintenance managed?

Some properties will have an on-site maintenance staff manager or provide you with a number to call for maintenance issues. Make sure to ask how and when an emergency should be reported.

“Here, at Millan Enterprises , we strive to complete any work order issue within 24-48 hours. If we are unable to do so, we make sure to stay in contact with the tenant and provide all possible updates.”

Sarah Perry, Millan Enterprises, Maintenance Coordinator

10. How often will my rent increase ?

It is common for rent to increase each year you renew your lease contract. This is in majority due to, inflation. If you plan to stay long-term, figure out how often the rent will increase and by how much.

Check out this great article we shared with tenants in 2019 regarding rent increases to find out more.


These are just a few of the many questions you can ask during a showing. Check out our Pinterest Board for a great rental tips, including an apartment checklist to bring with you during apartment tours. This can help make sure you find the perfect home that checks all of your priority boxes!

Moving in
Photo by: Canva
Why Do Apartment Rents Rise Every Year?

Why Do Apartment Rents Rise Every Year?

Have you ever wondered about the reasons for rent increase? Check out the article below and find out exactly what factors trigger an increase in rent from your landlords. 

https://www.theestateupdate.com/why-apartment-rents-rise-every-year/

3 Tips When Moving to a New Town

3 Tips When Moving to a New Town

How to Move to a New Town

Being a military spouse is hard, but so rewarding. I knew when I started dating my husband that we would be moving wherever the Army told us to move and whenever the Army told us to move. Starting fresh in an unfamiliar area that’s hundreds of miles away from your current home is scary. A million questions pop in your head immediately after your significant other brings home their PCS (Permanent Change of Station) Orders. Where do you start? What neighborhoods are the safest? What real estate companies do I contact? Do we rent or buy? Will I make new friends easily? Will I be able to find a new job quickly? If you’re concerned about how to move to a new town, read these tips.

BREATHE FIRST, PREP SECOND.

Don’t be like me and get stuck in the vicious twister of questions in your head. Take a deep breath and exhale slowly. After your nerves have calmed, you can start prepping yourself for the move. Determine what items need to make it to your next location and what items you can sell or donate. My family always donates several laundry baskets of clothing to Goodwill before a big move. The less we have to pack and haul to our new home, the better!

how to move to a new town

Once you have gone through clothing, furniture, kitchenware, toiletries, linens, knick knacks, and everything else in your home, you’ll need to start your packing. Hobby Lobby is always my go-to place for boxes. The staff has always been very willing to save boxes to donate to your move. While you are packing, make sure to have an emergency bag packed with a first aid kit, food, and basic tools in case of an issue during your travels. My least favorite part of moving is the next—playing Tetris with your boxes to make them fit in your car. If you’re like me and have a pet, it’s even more challenging. Luckily, our dog, Riley, was happy to be moving to Tennessee. Little did she know the drive would be much longer than the 10-minute commute to the dog park.

REMEMBER THERE IS NO SUCH THING AS A PERFECT HOME.

It’s easier said than done to find a new home. List out features that are deal breakers and features that can be compromised. My family always looks for a three-bedroom home with a fenced in backyard. Of course, my husband will tell you that a deal breaker would be if the home doesn’t have a man-cave space, but I think that is something that can that can be compromised. We won’t even consider a home if it doesn’t offer these must-haves.

If you are unable to plan a trip to your new city to hunt for yourself, see if a friend or family member can check out homes in your place. Ask them to take pictures and videos to send to you. I’ve signed leases sight-unseen before and regretted it. Don’t put yourself in that situation because then you will be stuck in a legally-binding contract for at least a year.

Try your hardest not to get frustrated during your hunt. I’ve been there—so frustrated that you just want to scream. Nothing is in your budget. Nothing is big enough. Nothing is good enough. Just like before, take a deep breath and relax. You’ll find one that fits your family’s wants and needs. I promise. Don’t forget that there is no such thing as a perfect home. 

ENJOY YOUR NEW ADVENTURE.

Moving to a new place doesn’t have to be difficult or depressing. You’ll make new friends. You’ll find the amazing, hole-in-the-wall restaurants that you’ll take all of your visitors to. You’ll laugh. You’ll cry. You’ll continue to build your life with your family. Moving is all about what you make it. If you put your anxiety and worry aside, you’ll see that it is a fun adventure.