By Julie DeLong, A-1 Freeman Moving Group
So, you have really resolved that it is time to move from the nest and strike out on your own. This can be a very fun time, but it is also brimming with questions that need to be answered. The mixture of excitement and fear that ensues during these times is normal. That's why we are here to assist you with the first time moving tips that allow for a successful transition.Sure, it may be tempting to “pay” your friends with pizza and soda to help with the move. Saving some dollars by not having to find professionals is a normal desire, but you will want to take an objective point of view in these instances. If you are not preparing to be hiring a professional mover in Denver then you are going to want to look closely at your belongings.
You need to also make sure that family and friends are even willing to lend a hand. In an optimal setting, the assistance of both parties will be available. We can always use an additional assistant or two but this is no comparison to the help and experience that a professional moving company can provide.
Or... what are the items that you have always expected would be taken care of for you by your parents? There are lots of things that are in this category and you shouldn’t make the error of failing to take into consideration any of them. Do you know anything about utilities or insurance? Have you ever been to the grocery by yourself?
Do not conclude that you already know everything. Sit down with your parents and question them about all of the items that they have taken care of for you. You could end up being aghast by the long list of things that you get put on your plate as a result of this crucial talk.
Do you know everything you will need to pay for? If utilities are included with the rent, great, but that is pretty uncommon these days. If they are not bundled, then make confident you are aware if you will be paying directly to the utility company or through the landlord (the latter is commonplace if your new abode is not metered). Make a schedule of the bills. Basically, you will have to worry about utilities, cell phone, internet (and possibly cable, unless you will be counting on streaming services). In addition, you will want to obtain renters' insurance. It's inexpensive, might be called for by your landlord, and usually covers you from theft, damage, and even some liability.
Work out how much rent you can really afford. It's pretty normal have your parents cosign on your first lease simply because you don't have the credit history. But, you must be confident you can really manage the rent in addition to utilities plus food, etc. Work up a budget for the other things you have to pay for and then see how much you have.
Work out what you should buy or acquire. You should do this after you have picked your apartment and executed the lease. For example, if your new place comes with a microwave, you should not need to buy one. Write down a list of everything you need. Next, prioritize it so you know which items you will want to purchase first and which items you can wait on. Such as, you will need toilet paper, but might be able to wait on throw rugs. Keep in mind you can buy a lot of items gently used if you want.
A routine error that is made by first-time movers is a failure to collect cartons ahead of time. By being as proactive as possible, a first-time mover has the capability to avoid the hassles of attempting to find moving materials at the last minute. In the weeks leading up to the move, be sure to visit local stores to find out where you should go for the boxes that you need. Some may give them away and others may charge a nominal fee. Or, good quality moving supplies can usually be purchased from your local moving company in Denver.
Finding an apartment that is in the best neighborhood 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? Choosing an apartment that doesn’t put you in a position where you have a long commute is usually vital.
Consider 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 begin looking at apartments, it is important to keep in mind that most of the deal-breaking points of contention are going to be lurking beneath the surface. For instance, take a closer look at the windows to be sure that the seals are not broken or compromised in any way.
Are the neighbors too noisy? How does the security set up look? What type of extra amenities are available on the property? How will you move your belongings inside? These are all questions that should be answered in full before signing the lease.
Look over the lease carefully. Be sure you know what you are signing. Asking your parents or an older friend for help is okay. Leases are often multiple pages and may have rules that seem confusing. You need to understand what is going on with your lease, not just sign it blindly.
Unless hiring people to pack for you, pack well in advance and over a few days. It's less tense that way. Also, packing proactively helps make sure you pack the things you need least first and the things you need most last, that is on the top.
Do not fret. Moving is stressful, and it is simple to work yourself into a "tizzy." Take a deep breath, 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, make sure to drink plenty of water. Never pack a box that is too heavy to lift. (This is another great reason to hire movers, who are used to lifting heavy boxes and much less likely to hurt themselves.)
Moving into your first apartment on your own (or even with a roommate) in Denver is a big step. 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 Denver, click here to contact us!!
