Keep in mind that you may need to save a little extra money for the initial move. Most apartments require a security deposit (usually equal to the rent amount). A lot of places also require first month’s rent, and sometimes even last month’s rent depending on the landlord. You may also need to pay for a moving van or a professional moving service. Some apartments have income requirements for their tenants (e. g. , you must earn 3 times the cost of rent each month). If you can’t meet those income requirements, you might be able to get around them by using a cosigner. In addition to rent, common living expenses include transportation costs (e. g. , gas and car maintenance), groceries and dining, home utilities (e. g. , water, electricity, gas, Internet, and TV), and your phone bill. You may also have other expenses, such as student loan payments or credit card payments.
The monthly rent payment If the utilities are included in the rent The size of the apartment Which floor the apartment is on If the apartment is furnished If the apartment is pet-friendly Parking availability Building security Amenities (e. g. , laundry facilities and common areas)
For example, do you need to live relatively close to where you’re working or going to school? Do you want to live near amenities like grocery stores or retail outlets? Do you prefer a more urban setting, or something more secluded? Do you want a place that’s bike friendly or has good public transit?
Make a list of qualities you want or don’t want in a roommate. Figure out if you have any deal-breakers before you invite someone to share your home. For example, you might decide that your roommate must be a non-smoker or must be willing to live with a cat.
Summer (between May and August) is the busiest time for move-ins, so avoid the summer rush by moving at a different time of the year, if you can.
Looking at classifieds websites like Craigslist. Checking the classifieds sections in local newspapers. Looking at for-rent flyers on bulletin boards in local community centers, stores, and college campuses. Asking around among friends and acquaintances who live in the area.
Bring a list of questions to ask the landlord or property manager (e. g. , “Who do I call if something breaks in my apartment?” or “How does trash pickup work?”). If you can, have a chat with another tenant while you’re there. Ask them how they like the place and if they’ve encountered any major problems during their time there.
Any fees you must pay, such as parking fees, pet fees, or a security deposit What services provided by the management (such as extermination services or repair services) Whether there is an early lease termination policy
Proof of employment or income, such as recent pay stubs or W2 forms. If you are about to start a new job, you may need a letter from your new employer. Your photo ID. Personal references (e. g. , from professors or employers). Information about your co-signer, if you have one. This may be necessary if you have poor credit, no credit history, or don’t meet the minimum income requirement for the apartment.
If you are approved, you may need to pay additional fees, such as a security deposit or pet deposit. Check the laws in your area to make sure the landlord or management company is not charging you illegal fees. For example, in Boston, it is illegal for landlords to charge application fees, credit check fees, finder’s fees, or a fee for holding an apartment. [8] X Research source
Insufficient safety features (such as smoke detectors and fire extinguishers) Signs of leaky plumbing Damage to appliances or fixtures Doors that don’t close or lock properly Light fixtures or outlets that don’t work
Make sure that, at minimum, you will have electricity, water and gas set up at move-in time. Ask your landlord or property manager which companies supply these basic utilities to your apartment building. You will also need to look into setting up Internet, phone lines (if you need a landline), and TV service (if you want it). Ask your landlord for advice, or do an online search for providers that serve your area.
It’s a good idea to have extra copies of at least your main apartment key and the key that lets you into the building. Go to a locksmith, hardware store, or key-cutting kiosk to get an extra set of keys made. Leave the keys with a friend or family member you trust in case of an emergency.
If you’re concerned about pests, talk to your landlord or property manager about fumigating the apartment or bringing in an exterminator before you move in.
If your apartment building does not have a secure area for mail delivery, check with your local post office about setting up a P. O. box instead.
Make a list of items that are essential (e. g. , your clothes, your computer, your toiletries, your cell phone charger, and so on). Make a second list of items that you want to bring, and consider whether you will have room for all of them. This might include things like your favorite books, furniture from your old room, and items with sentimental value.
While you can purchase boxes online or from moving supply stores, there are many places where you can get boxes for free. Try an exchange website like Freecycle. org, or go to a local bookstore, grocery store, or liquor store to see if they have boxes to spare. [11] X Research source Try to pack heavier items, like books, in smaller boxes. Otherwise, you might end up with a bunch of boxes that are too heavy to move! You’ll also need packaging tape and padding material (such as bubble wrap, foam peanuts, or wadded-up newspaper).
Use a permanent marker, like a Sharpie, to label your boxes. You might also find it helpful to number your boxes and keep a packing list. This can help you keep track of your boxes and make sure none of them get lost in the shuffle.
Some items may need to be partially disassembled for easier transport and move-in (e. g. , you might need to take the legs off your couch to get it through the apartment door). Put any loose parts in a bag, and tape it to the furniture. Wrap any fragile items in moving blankets or furniture pads to protect them from bumps and scratches.
If you don’t have any friends or family who can help you, consider hiring professional movers. Be sure to do your research and read online reviews of any companies you are considering, so that you know they are trustworthy.
Search online for truck rental companies in your area, and read up on their terms and prices. Look for online reviews to determine if the company is reliable and trustworthy. When you rent the truck, speak with the rental agent to make sure you understand all rental requirements, including when and how to return the vehicle when you are done.
For example, move any boxes containing dishes, food, or cooking supplies into the kitchen. Put your bed linens and clothing in the bedroom.
Major furniture items, such as a bed, a couch or futon, a dining table and chairs, and a desk. Kitchen items and appliances, such as cooking utensils, pots and pans, a microwave, a kettle, a toaster, cups, glasses and cutlery. Smaller necessities, such as shower curtains and curtain liners, trash cans and extension cords, and a closet organizer for your bedroom. Cleaning supplies, such as a vacuum cleaner, broom and dustpan, mop and bucket, sponges, toilet brush, and soaps and detergents. Hygiene basics, like towels, bath soap, hand soap, toothbrush and toothpaste, and toilet paper.
Check local thrift stores or browse on websites like Craigslist or the Facebook marketplace for used furniture and other must-haves. You can also look for yard sale flyers in your new neighborhood. Your parents might also be able to pass along some items they don’t want or need anymore.
