Moving Into an Apartment? Here Are a Few Things You Should Consider

Jim Mielke

There are tons of reasons why you might move into an apartment: moving out of your parent’s house for the first time (or maybe not the first time), downsizing to a living space that is more manageable, financial trouble….the list goes on and on.  While you may be moving into an apartment by choice, there are some things that you should know that can make the scouting and moving process much less terrifying. 

Make sure you build some savings before moving

In most cases, apartment life is cheaper than owning and maintaining a house.  However, your next move into an apartment may not be “cheap”.  Before moving, you will most likely be expected to provide:

• First and last month’s rent;
• Security deposit; and/or
• Pet deposit

In some cases you may have to purchase a parking spot or rent storage space (especially if you are moving out of a fully loaded house).  You may also need to finish paying utility bills from your previous situation in addition to setting up things like cable, internet, and utilities at your new apartment.  These things add up!

Please make sure you fully understand your lease

You definitely do not want to sign a lease you do not fully understand.  Getting stuck in a nightmare lease can really ruin your apartment experience.  Firstly, you must know everything about:

• Late payment policies;
• Terms for pet owners;
• Visitor policies; and
• Parking and storage guidelines

Get to know your landlord and create an open line of communication by asking questions about your lease.  A lease is a legally binding document and you can run into serious trouble even if you unknowingly violate the terms.

Do not wait to get to know your surroundings

Some people are better at adapting to new surroundings than others.  If you are new to the area, you should familiarize yourself with the location of things like:

• Police and fire departments;
• Gyms;
• Parks (especially if you have a dog);
• Medical facilities and pharmacies; and
• Grocery stores and gas stations.

Additionally, keep your personal hobbies/leisurely activities in mind.  Make sure you know the location of the nearest social gathering establishments.  Be sure to trace your commute and familiarize yourself with local traffic.

Familiarizing yourself with your surroundings can make the first few weeks after the move much easier.

Have a plan for every item you are moving to your new apartment

So much stress is introduced to a situation when decisions have to be made on the spot.  Catalogue every item you intend to bring to your new abode.  Draw a blueprint and plan the location of things like:

• Living room furniture;
• Bedroom furniture;
• Where to store your vacuum cleaner, broom, and other supplies; and
• Kitchen appliances.

Having a plan for each item you bring to your new apartment will take stress away from you and your helpers on moving day.

Moving can be a very exciting time.  It can mean newly found freedom or relief from the crushing monthly expenses from owning a house.  Whatever the motivation for the move, be sure to make things easier on yourself by planning ahead!