By Julie DeLong, A-1 Freeman Moving Group
So, you have now determined that it is time to fly from the nest and strike out on your own. This can be a very exciting time, but it is also brimming with questions that require to be answered. The mixture of jubilation and fear that occurs during this time is common. That's why we are here to assist you with a few first time moving recommendations that provide for a successful launch.Of course, it might be alluring to “pay” your friends with pizza and soda to help with the move. Conserving cash by not having to employ professional movers is a usual want, but you should think twice. If you are not planning to hire a professional mover in San Antonio then you are going to want to scrutinize your belongings.
You must also make sure that family and friends are even able to help. In an optimal world, the assistance of both parties would be combined. We can always use an extra assistant or two but this is no comparison to the help and experience that a professional moving company brings to the table.
In other words: what are the items that you have always assumed would be taken care of for you by your parents? There are a lot of expenses that fall into this group and don’t make the blunder of forgetting to consider any of them. Do you know anything about utilities or insurance? Have you ever been to the grocery by yourself?
Don't conclude that you already know everything that you need to know. Discuss with your parents and ask about all of the items that they have taken care of for you. You may end up being astonished by the long list of items to do that you get put on your plate after this important discussion.
Are you aware of everything you will need to pay for? If utilities are bundled with the rent, excellent, but that is extremely uncommon anymore. If they are not included, then be positive you know if you will be paying direct to the utility company or through the landlord (the latter is common if your new abode is not metered). Make a list of the bills. Basically, you will have to worry about utilities, cell phone, internet (and possibly cable, unless you plan on counting on streaming services). In addition, you will need to get renters' insurance. It's cheap, could be required by your landlord, and usually covers you in the event of theft, damage, and even some liability.
Work out how much rent you can really afford. It's pretty normal need your parents cosign on your first lease simply because you don't have the credit history. Yet, you should make sure you can actually manage the rent plus utilities plus food, etc. Work up a budget for the other stuff you need and then see how much you have.
Plan out what you must buy or acquire. You should do this after you have choosen your apartment and executed the lease. Such as, if your new abode comes with a microwave, you will not need to purchase one. Write down a checklist of everything you need. Next, arrange it so you can clearly identify which items you will want to purchase first and what can hold off for a bit. For example, you surely need toilet paper, but might be able to wait on decorative rugs. Keep in mind you can purchase a lot of items second hand if needed.
A normal mistake that is made by non-experienced movers is a failure to collect boxes in a timely manner. By planning ahead, a first-time mover has the ability to bypass the hassles of trying to track down moving supplies at the last minute. In the weeks before the move, make sure to swing into local stores to find out where you might go for the boxes that you need. Some may give them away and others may require a nominal fee. Or, good quality moving supplies can always be bought from your local moving company in San Antonio.
Choosing an apartment that is in the best area is all about thinking about the realities of your existence. Where will you be working? What do you like to do in your free time? Selecting an apartment that doesn’t place you in a position where you are forced to endure long commutes is usually vital.
Think about the community structure as well. Are you someone who likes to stay up late or are you looking to start a family? Pick the neighborhood that lines up with your personal style in this regard.
Once you commence looking at apartments, it is important to remember that the biggest deal-breaking points of contention are going to be hiding out beneath the surface. For example, examine the windows to be sure that the seals are not broken or compromised in any way.
Are the neighbors too rambunctious? What security features are available? What type of time-saving amenities are available on the property? How will you move your things inside? These are all questions that need to be answered in full prior to signing the lease.
Review the lease carefully. Make sure you know what you are signing. Asking your parents or an older friend for help is perfectly normal. Leases are often filled with confusing legal terminology and may have rules that seem confusing. You need to know how to interpret your lease, not just sign it blindly.
Unless hiring a moving company to pack for you, pack proactively and over a few days. It is less stressful that way. In addition, packing proactively helps make sure you pack the items you need least first and the things you need most last, that is on the top.
Do not worry. Moving is an anxious time, and it's easy to work yourself into a "tizzy." Slow down, and have fun with it. Hiring professional movers is going to be less stressful than doing the move yourself. If doing any of the heavy lifting yourself, make sure to drink plenty of water. Don’t pack a carton that weights too much for you to lift. (This is another wonderful reason to hire movers, who are accustomed to lifting heavy boxes and much less likely to injure themselves.)
Moving into your first apartment on your own (or even with a roommate) in San Antonio is one of the biggest steps you will take in your life. Follow 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 San Antonio, click here to contact us!!
