Preparing Your First Apartment: 4 Critical Tips
Moving into a new apartment can be as stressful as it is exhilarating. The move can be due to a positive change in your life - a new job, a new partner, graduating from college or gaining independence - or a not-so-positive change. In any case you should view your new apartment as a great opportunity!
This guide can help you prepare for your first apartment:
Make sure you can pay for your apartments rent - You may have significant savings now but consider getting an apartment that will allow you to pay your rent and still be able to save. You should not get an apartment that will wipe out a huge percentage of your income. You want to make sure that you dont struggle with the monthly rent because sooner or later you will deeply regret it. You should also take other expenses related to apartment living into consideration while apartment shopping. Consider the utility costs, food, transportation and other costs you will incur when you move into your new apartment.
Think before you sign the lease - Make sure you understand the terms of the lease and really think about your decision before you sign on the dotted line. It can be tough to break a lease with the traditional grey box apartments. You do not want to lose money just because you decide one day that the apartment does not fit your lifestyle. Evaluate how an apartment will meet your needs before you decide to close the deal.
Make a list of the things you need/want in your apartment - This will help you prepare for your move. The list can be very helpful when people ask you what they can give you as a housewarming present. The list will also serve as your guide when you go shopping for items for your new apartment. Think about signing up for a gift registry at some of your favourite stores before your apartment warming.
Learning home management and other basic skills to help you around your new apartment. Learn a few recipes you can prepare to lower you monthly food expenses. Learn how to fix leaking faucets or to change light bulbs. Knowing how to do-it-yourself really pays off in the long run. Of course, if you ever run into difficulties, you can always schedule apartment maintenance. Just make yourself aware of what they will and will not be willing to repair and how long the wait will be.
Shauna Nicholson is a resident at the Urbane Apartments in Metro-Detroit. She shares her stories of apartment lifestyle and experiences discovering Birmingham and Royal Oak, Michigan.
