By Julie DeLong, A-1 Freeman Moving Group
So, you have finally decided that it is time to move from the nest and be out on your own. This can be a very fun time, but it is also brimming with questions that will need to be answered. The mixture of jubilation and fear that takes place during this time is normal. That is why we are here to provide you with some first time moving tips that allow for a successful launch.Yes, it may be alluring to bribe some friends with pizza and soda to help with the move. Conserving money by not having to employ professional movers is a common want, but you will need to think twice. If you are not going to be hiring a professional mover in Austin then you are going to want to take a closer look at your items.
You need to also be sure that family and friends are even willing to assist. In an ideal setting, the help from both groups will be on hand. We can always use an additional assistant or two but this is no substitute for the help and experience that a professional moving company can provide.
To say it another way what are the things that you have always expected would be paid for by your parents? There are a lot of items that are in this category and don’t make the blunder of forgetting to plan for any of them. Are you up to speed on utilities or insurance? Have you ever done your own grocery shopping?
Do not think that you already know everything. Talk with your parents and ask about all of the items that they have done for you. You could end up being astonished by the lengthy list of things that you receive after this crucial conversation.
Do you know all of the things you need to pay for? If utilities are together with the rent, excellent, but that is very rare anymore. If they are not included, then make sure you understand whether you will be paying direct to the utility company or via the landlord (the latter is common if your new home is not metered). Make a checklist of the bills. Basically, you need to worry about utilities, cell phone, internet (and possibly cable, unless you will be depending on streaming services). In addition, you will want to obtain renters' insurance. It's not expensive, may be required by your landlord, and normally covers you from theft, damage, and even some liability.
Figure out how much rent you can actually afford. It's pretty normal need your parents cosign on your first lease simply because you do not have the credit history. Yet, you need to make sure you can actually pay for the rent in addition to utilities plus food, etc. Work up a budget for the other stuff you need and then see how much you have.
Work out what you need to purchase or come up with. You should do this after you have selected your apartment and signed the lease. Such as, if your new home has a built-in microwave, you should not need to purchase one. Write down a list of everything you need. Then, arrange it so you know which items you will want to purchase first and which items purchases can be delayed. For example, you definitely need sheets for your bed, but might be able to wait on decorative pillows. Remember you can buy lots of items gently used if needed.
A normal mistake that is made by non-experienced movers is a failure to obtain boxes far enough in advance. By thinking ahead, a first-time mover has the ability to bypass the headaches of trying to track down moving materials at the last possible moment. In the weeks leading up to the move, be sure to stop by local stores to figure out where you can go to obtain the boxes that you need. Some may give them away and others may ask for a nominal fee. Or, good quality moving supplies can normally be purchased from your local moving company in Austin.
Finding a home that is in the best neck of the woods is all about considering the realities of your existence. How far of a drive is it to your job? What do you like to do in your free time? Choosing an apartment that does not place you in a position where you will have a crazy long commute is usually vital.
Think about the community makeup as well. Are you a person who likes to stay up late or are you looking to start a family? Pick the neighborhood that lines up with your personal style in this regard.
Once you commence looking at apartments, it is crucial to not forget that most of the deal-breaking problems are going to be hiding out under the surface. For example, inspect the windows to be sure that the seals are not broken or compromised in any way.
Are the neighbors too rambunctious? How does the security set up look? What type of extra amenities are available on the premises? How will you move your belongings inside? These are all questions that must be answered in full before signing any paperwork.
Read the lease carefully. Be sure you know what you are signing. Asking your parents or an older friend for assistance is perfectly normal. Leases are often multiple pages and may have rules that seem odd. You need to understand what is going on with your lease, not just sign it blindly.
Unless hiring a moving company to pack for you, pack proactively and over a few days. It's less tense that way. Also, packing ahead of time helps make sure you pack the belongings you need least first and the things you need most last, that is on the top.
Do not worry. Moving is stressful, and it is easy to work yourself into a "tizzy." Slow down, and have fun with it. Hiring professional movers is usually less stressful than doing everything yourself. If doing any of the packing and loading and unloading yourself, make sure to take breaks to rest and hydrate yourself. Never pack a box that is too heavy to lift. (This is another great reason to hire movers, who are conditioned and fit to lift heavy boxes and much less likely to hurt themselves.)
Moving into your first apartment on your own (or even with a roommate) in Austin is one of the biggest steps you will take in your life. Follow the above tips to make it all go well and avoid getting into financial, or other, trouble. And, if you need help with moving in or to Austin, click here to contact us!!
