As a college graduate preparing to go off into the vast world of true adulthood, there’s usually at least one dilemma at hand – finding a new pad. Living in the “luxurious” yet affordable on-campus housing is no longer feasible, and it’s time to find a personal abode to settle into. But where can you start with such a task? The first thing to do is find an affordable, yet comfortable, place to live.Often, if there’s an interest in a particular complex, the first thing to do is contact the property manager of the specific buildings to inquire directly about any available rooms. One of the more simple ways to find a place is to let people know. Keep family members and friends abreast of plans so they can be on the lookout as well. Plus, it may be easier to know who may have an extra room or of someone who is moving out. The classified ads section of the local newspaper, online listings, or even the assistance of a broker is also a big help in the search for shelter. Classifieds are an easy way to research specific locations, amenities, and how much space is affordable, while Web sites are a valuable resource, because they are frequently updated. If there is a place that is not exactly in the right price range, but just stylishly irresistible, consider subleasing with a friend or screened perspectives. The moving process as a whole can be quite overwhelming, so here are a few tips to help make the transition go nice and smooth: 1.) Figure out how much stuff needs to be moved- Gauge the number of boxes needed and write down all large pieces of furniture. Determine which is best: renting a truck and moving alone or hiring a mover. Think about the moving budget, personal strength for lifting heavy items, and time constraints.
2. Determine any storage needs- If the new apartment is too small for all your belongings, consider storing some of the items.
3. Research storage companies- When researching companies, keep in mind how much space and time is needed. Remember items can be stacked, so downgrading to a smaller space is practical and so is saving money.
4. Research truck rentals and movers- There are numerous truck rental and moving companies, some of which are efficient and timely and some of which break items or are late. Reviewing several companies can help one find a company that is affordable and competent.
5. Find a friend to help you move- Having a friend on moving day can make a huge difference. Not only can they can help watch for careless handling of fragile items or load boxes, but they can keep you sane!
6. Schedule a date and time with the truck rental or mover company- Once a friend is available and the best time has been designated to move, call the truck rental company or mover and schedule a time to pick up the truck or for the movers to arrive. Some buildings restrict moving in to certain hours. Make sure the movers or truck rental hours have been scheduled within these requirements. Try to also avoid rush-hour traffic times.
7. Pack- Allocate at least a week to pack and more if busy during the day or have a lot to move. It’s wise to take off from work the day before and the day of the move for any last-minute errands and cleaning.
8. Clean- If the landlord has to make a lot of repairs or do heavy cleaning, some of these expenses could get taken out of the security deposit. So, before leaving the apartment, sweep the floors, wipe off the counters and inside the fridge, and clean the bathroom. Fill in any holes in the wall or areas where large amounts of paint chipped off that are larger than one-fourth of an inch with spackling paste.
9. Walk through the apartment with the landlord or representative- Schedule a walk-through with the landlord, and if there’s been any uncertainty about the condition of the apartment, discuss anything that needs to be done to ensure that you get your security deposit back.
10. Move! Load the rental truck or wait for the movers.