Living with your parents can be great. You will always have a fridge full of food, a free place to do laundry, and a comfy bed. But if you want a space of your own, it can be a bit overwhelming to figure out everything by yourself. So here are some rules we recommend you follow if you are moving into your first apartment.
1. Don’t skimp on the ‘boring’ details
The average American moves about 12 times during their lifetime, between living at college, living with random roommates, and living by yourself, it can be confusing to stay on top of everything. But one thing you definitely should not skimp on is the seemingly ‘boring’ details of your apartment complex, like where you have to park your car, if laundry is included, and if you have to pay for any other apartment amenities.
If you don’t pay attention when signing your lease, then these small, ‘insignificant’ details can come back to haunt you when you have to walk up eight flights of stairs with wet laundry.
2. Figure out what you really can afford
Almost 15% of people move because they wanted new and improved rental spaces. If you fall under this category, make sure you can actually afford it! A good idea is to have money in the bank already so you will be able to write a check for the rent every month without having it crush you financially. And don’t forget those hidden expenses; utility bills if they are not included, the Internet, parking, laundry, and groceries.
Pro Tip: don’t forget to factor in gas expenses if your new apartment complex is farther away from your job than your parent’s house.
3. Don’t go overboard decorating
It is easy to get caught up in apartment living and want to buy everything you can for your first new place. But remember that nationwide the median monthly rent was $934 in 2014, it is wiser to buy periodically so you can ensure you have enough every month for bills. Start with a few basic pieces and you will be able to decorate with whatever you have leftover from home. And who knows, maybe your apartment complex comes already furnished!
