Are you planning on moving into an apartment?
Although about 80 percent of Americans prefer living in single-family homes and only about 20 percent live in apartments or condos, apartment living offers many awesome benefits. There’s a great sense of community, many complexes offer amenities like gyms and daycare, and it makes financial sense, especially for renters.
If it’s your first time living in an apartment, you’re certainly excited. But whether you’re downsizing from a single-family home into an apartment or moving from your parents’ home, it’s prudent to make a detailed move-in plan.
To help make your move as stress-free and smooth as can be, here are a handful of moving tips.
1. Know the Size of the Apartment
Although there are sprawling condos that are bigger than the average single-family home, apartments aren’t exactly known to be spacious. So, when you’re making an apartment move, it’s essential to have a clear picture of the space you’re working with.
Don’t just assume that a 2- or 3-bedroom apartment is big enough for your needs. Don’t make a judgment based on the pictures and videos of the apartment. Make a physical visit and get an idea of the available space and compare it with your belongings.
You don’t want to start moving only to realize the apartment is too small or too big for your needs. If you have more belongings than can fit in the apartment, and getting a bigger apartment isn’t an option for you, there are options you can consider.
For example, you can keep some of your valuables in a self-storage facility. Or you can donate items, like old furniture and equipment, that you no longer need.
2. Sort Out the Apartment Paperwork
Whether you’re planning to rent or buy an apartment, don’t start making concrete moving plans until you’ve finished the paperwork. If you’re currently renting, don’t give your landlord a move-out notice until you’re sure the apartment you’re moving into is in your name.
For renters, there’s no guarantee the new landlord will approve your application. They typically conduct criminal background and credit checks, so if you have a questionable past, there’s a chance your tenancy application could be rejected.
For buyers, your purchase plans can fall through, especially if you’re relying on mortgage financing.
Once you’ve taken care of the paperwork and gotten the keys to the apartment, ensure it’s move-in ready. At this point, the landlord would have taken care of any required repairs and maintenance. If you’re not satisfied with its condition, hire a move-in cleaning service to give it a thorough deep cleaning.
You can begin setting up home utilities like internet and cable television. Also, familiarize yourself with the rules of the apartment complex. If the landlord or the owners’ association doesn’t allow pets and you’re a pet parent, you have to make alternative plans for your furry friend.
3. Purchase Renter’s Insurance
Only 57 percent of residential tenants in America have renter’s insurance. Yet, this insurance policy is just as crucial as homeowner’s insurance. It protects the renter from financial losses in the event of damage or burglary, among other benefits.
It’s understandable that you might not be excited about buying renter’s insurance because of the short-term nature of tenancy agreements. However, did you know the coverage will set you back only about $180 a year?
Therefore, before you move in, start shopping around for the best renter’s insurance policy. Get multiple quotes and read the terms and conditions to know what’s covered and what isn’t.
If you own the apartment, you need homeowner’s insurance just like other homeowners. Just be sure to purchase the policy from an insurer that offers custom policies to apartment owners.
4. Get Familiar with the Neighborhood
Obviously, the neighborhood played an important role when you were hunting for an apartment. Now that you have the apartment, take time to explore around and get familiar with the neighborhood before moving in.
If you have school-going kids, visit the various schools in the neighborhood. Get to know the healthcare facilities there and establish whether they accept your insurance. With this information, you’ll be better prepared to respond to a healthcare emergency if it were to happen on the first night of your move-in.
Ideally, you want to move into your apartment and feel like you’re not a newbie in the neighborhood. You should be able to find your way around with ease.
5. Find a Professional Mover
You don’t really need to hire a mover if you’re moving into a small apartment that’s near your current residence. A few of your friends can help you haul the luggage and set up the place.
However, if you have a full house to move into, it’s best to get professional help. But, don’t just hire any moving company, as they’re not created equal. Find a local moving company that has a solid reputation for offering excellent services.
To do this, start by asking your friends and family for recommendations. If someone knows a great mover, they’ll promptly share their contact details with you. You can also go online and search for top-rated movers in your area.
Read online reviews for each company on your shortlist to get an idea of its reputation. Consider the range of services a company offers before making a pick. If you’ll need to store some of your items, for example, you want a company that also offers self-storage in addition to moving services.
Moving Into an Apartment Without the Stress
In many ways, moving into an apartment is a smart decision. However, moving is always stressful regardless of the type of house you’re moving into. If you want to avoid the moving stress, be sure to use these tips to prepare for your apartment move.
All the best and keep tabs on our blog for more moving advice.
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