My boyfriend and I are currently planning to move into an apartment by the summer. Currently we are living with his mom and decided that it was time for our own space again. Now this isn't our first time living in an apartment, but even after doing the process for the third time it is still frustrating. There is figuring out what we can afford, finding a place that meets our needs and planning/implementing the big move. It is both a tiring and time consuming process, especially if you do not know what you are doing. So I decided to make a step-by-step guide to buying your first apartment. With these helpful tips you are sure to enjoy the process just a little bit more!
Step One: Figure out what you can afford.
This is probably the most important step. The last thing you want to do is be moving into a place that will put you under financially. Renting is a huge financial responsibility that is to not be taken lightly. Sit down and figure out your income and expenses. Don't overestimate on the totals. If you are unsure it is always better to underestimate that way if you're wrong you'll just end up having extra money in your pocket (and that is never a bad thing). Start off by calculating your income, then in a different section list your monthly expenses. Make sure to not only include bills but things like groceries, gas, savings and even "going out" expenses. Once you calculate that total then deduct it from your monthly income total. The answer will be how much you can afford in rent each month.
Here is my printable that will help!
Step Two: Plan out your wants and needs.
Now it is time to make another list but this time about what you are looking for in a place. Make two sections: one for "wants" and one for "needs". Make sure you really think about what is a need or a want. If you can live without it than it is probably a want. This list will also help you when looking for places because it can serve as a checklist.
Step Three: Research and schedule viewings.
Some of my favorite sites to use are Truila.com and Rent.com. Sometimes Craigslist is a good option too (and a cheaper one). Narrow your search by using your price limit you figure out in step one. You can also narrow your search by filtering it with how many bedrooms or bathrooms you want, as well as location. While searching write down the numbers of places that matched perfectly to what you are looking for. It is ok to have a long list. In this situation the more the merrier! Contact these places and schedule viewings. The best way to make sure the place is a perfect fit is by checking it out. Make sure to bring your wants/needs list from step two to serve as a checklist. Also when walking through the apartment it is important to thoroughly check things out. The goal is to address any problems before signing a lease.
Step Four: Make sure that you are prepared.
Before signing the lease you need to address a couple things. It is very important to make sure you are not getting in way over your head. Double check that with this apartment you are staying within the means of your budget. If you don't have any furniture yet I would recommend working that into your budget. Ask the landlord when he wants the rent due and if there are any late penalties. Make sure he will take care of the apartment if anything goes wrong (a pipe bursting, water back up, ect.) Also, ask how long the lease is for, whether it is a month to month lease, six month or a year. Only sign for what you know you can manage. Then when everything seems right sign that lease (and yes it is ok to squeal!)
Step Five: Plan the move.
The actual moving part can be quite stressful. It is a good idea to sit down and plan things out. You need to think about what to pack, what to get rid of, your means of transportation when moving and who you can get to help. First things first you are going to need boxes. Don't waste your time going to stores like Staples and spending money on them. You can get a lot of boxes from your local grocery store for free! Just go to customer service and ask if they have any extra boxes to give away. While packing use a filing system. Label one box for the living room, one box for the kitchen, ect. That way when unloading you know exactly where to put each box. The next step is deciding on whether you want to pay for a moving company or ask some friends. Personally I have never used a moving company. I find it a lot more helpful and fun to ask both family members and friends! (I usually bribe them with some free pizza). I do on the other hand rent a U-Haul. It isn't too pricey considering they go by how many miles you use but it allows me to only have to worry about one vehicle! Another thing I like about U-Haul is that you can get almost anything (trailor, truck, van ect.) After you have decided on that then you need to think about picking your moving day. Factor in the weather and availability of most people for that day. For example, weekends would probably work better than weekdays because less people have work. Lastly, start getting paperwork together. Go to the post office and get a change of address form (will only last for 2 weeks so make sure you get your address changed from places), notify your employer, and get over to the DMV to change the address on your license. Still in school? Go to the registrar to change your address too! After that research cable companies in that area to get the best price. Then call them up and schedule with them to come on the day you move in or the day after! Call the electric company too to get the service switched in your name. That way when you move in you don't have to stress about those things.
Here are my printable packing labels you can use!
Step Six: Take the time to relax then get to settling in.
Seriously, put on some music and start to unpack. It may seem like there is a lot but this is the fun part! You get to decorate your place then way you want and you will be so happy once your done! Don't overwhelm yourself there is no time limit on when you need to finish. Work on one project at a time and reward yourself when you are done! Kick back, put your feet up and enjoy a glass of wine!
