3 Tips for Moving into Your First Apartment

Moving into your first apartment is exciting, but it can also be stressful. You have to find the perfect place, pack up everything you own, and then unpack it all again. It's not easy! If you're planning on moving into your first apartment in the near future, here are a few tips that will help make it go smoothly:

Save money for first month’s rent, last month’s rent, security deposit and other fees.

It's good to know what you're getting into before you set foot in your new place. Most landlords require first and last month's rent, plus a security deposit. It's also nice to have a cushion of money for other fees that might pop up and utilities, if they are not included. Renters should budget for these expenses when they're looking at apartments and can ask about them upfront so they know how much money they need to save up before moving in.

If you're moving into an apartment with roommates, it can be helpful to each contribute equally toward the first month's rent, last month's rent and security deposit; then split any other expenses down the middle (or however works best for everyone).

If you're moving into a furnished apartment or a sublease, it's worth asking if the furniture is included in the price. If it is, this will also help with your budgeting since you don't have to worry about buying couches or tables!

Ask friends and family to help you move on the weekend.

There are many ways to make moving into your first apartment easier. One way is to ask friends and family for help. They may be able to lend a hand with transporting large items from one place to another. If possible, try to move on the weekend.

You should provide them with snacks and drinks, which will make them even more willing to help you. Make sure that your boxes are labeled before any helpers arrive so that everyone knows where everything goes once it's unpacked at the new place. Also, offer to return the favor to your friends!

If you are moving on a weekend, try to get there early in the morning. This way, you can start packing and moving your belongings before traffic picks up.

Make sure you understand your lease agreement.

• Make sure you understand your lease agreement. Read it over and ask questions. Take pictures and videos of everything during the walk-through in case you need to reference them to get your security deposit back.
• Ask about any extra fees that might be added onto your rent, like parking or cable costs, which are often not included in the first month’s rent payment, but can add up quickly if you don’t budget for them ahead of time.
• Check all of the appliances and make sure they’re in good working order. This includes everything from refrigerators to washing machines to dishwashers. If anything looks broken, ask about getting it fixed before you sign anything.

Keep in mind that moving into your first apartment is exciting and a little scary. It’s easy to get overwhelmed with all the things you need to do before you move, but don’t let that stop you from doing it! The key to making your first apartment move easier is to ask friends and family for help. So, embrace the change—and remember these tips as they come in handy throughout this new chapter of life.

We won’t help you move boxes, but we can help you find the perfect first apartment for your location and budget. Check out Spot Easy to find an apartment quickly.