By Julie DeLong, A-1 Freeman Moving Group
So, you have really determined that it is time to move from the nest and strike out on your own. This will be a very exciting time, but it is also filled with questions that require to be answered. The mixture of jubilation and trepidation that occurs during these times is understandable. That is why we are here to assist you with a few first time moving tips that provide for a successful launch.Yes, it may be inviting to bribe a few friends with pizza and soda to help with the move. Conserving some dollars by not having to find a moving company is a usual want, but you will need to think twice. If you are not planning to be hiring a professional mover in El Paso then you are going to want to take a closer look at your items.
You need to also double check that family and friends are even able to help. In a perfect setting, the help from both parties will be combined. We can always use an extra set of hands or two but this is no comparison to the help and experience that a professional moving company has to offer.
Or... what are the expenses that you have always presumed would be taken care of for you by your parents? There are lots of things that fall into this group and you shouldn’t make the error of failing to consider any of them. Are you up to speed on utilities or insurance? Have you ever done any grocery shopping for yourself?
Do not decide that you already know everything that you need to know. Discuss with your parents and question them about all of the stuff that they have taken care of for you. You may end up being shocked by the long list of things that you get put on your plate after this crucial talk.
Are you aware of everything you will be required to pay for? If utilities are together with the rent, super, but that is very unlikely anymore. If they are not billed together, then be sure you understand if you will be paying directly to the utility company or via the landlord (the latter is commonplace if your new abode is not metered). Make a checklist of the bills. Generally, you need to be aware of utilities, cell phone, internet (and possibly cable, unless you will be depending on streaming services). In addition, you should obtain renters' insurance. It's inexpensive, might be required by your landlord, and usually covers you in the event of theft, damage, and even some liability.
Calculate out how much rent you can actually afford. It is very common to have to have your parents cosign on your first lease simply because you don't have the credit history. Yet, you need to make confident you can really afford the rent in addition to utilities plus food, etc. Come up with a budget for the other stuff you need and then figure out how much you have.
Figure out what you should purchase or acquire. You should do this after you have selected your apartment and signed the lease. For instance, if your new abode has a built-in microwave, you should not need to invest in one. Put together a checklist of what you need. Next, prioritize it so you know which items you need right off the bat and what purchases can be delayed. For instance, you definitely need trash cans, but might be able to wait on throw pillows. Keep in mind you can acquire a lot of things second hand if you want.
A normal mistake that is made by rookie movers is a failure to collect cartons ahead of time. By planning ahead, a first-time mover has the ability to sidestep the hassles of attempting to find moving materials at the eleventh hour. In the weeks before the move, make sure to swing into local retailers to find out where you might go to obtain the boxes that you need. Some may give them to you for free and others may charge a nominal fee. Or, good quality moving supplies can always be bought from your local moving company in El Paso.
Selecting an apartment that is in the best area is all about thinking about 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 are forced to endure long commutes is usually vital.
Consider the community makeup also. Are you a person who likes to stay up late or are you looking to start a family? Select the neighborhood that aligns with your personal style in this regard.
Once it is time to start visiting apartments, it is important to remember that most of the deal-breaking problems are going to be hiding beneath the surface. For instance, examine the windows to be sure that they are not water damaged or compromised in any way.
Are the neighbors too loud? Does the property look secure? What type of time-saving amenities are available on the premises? Will it be easy for you to move your belongings inside? These are all questions that should be answered in full prior to signing the lease.
Review the lease carefully. Make sure you understand what you are signing. Asking your parents or an older friend for assistance is not shameful. Leases are legal documents and may have rules that seem confusing. You need to know 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. In addition, packing proactively helps make sure you pack the things you need least first and the things you need most last, so that when you unpack, these items will be on the top.
Don't worry. Moving is an anxious time, and it's not difficult to work yourself into a "tizzy." Slow down, and have fun with it. Hiring professional movers is generally less stressful than doing the move yourself. If doing any of the heavy lifting yourself, be sure to take breaks to rest and hydrate yourself. Don’t pack a box that weights too much for you to lift. (This is another good 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 El Paso is one of the biggest steps you will take in your life. Pay attention to 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 El Paso, click here to contact us!!
