By Julie DeLong, A-1 Freeman Moving Group
So, you have really decided that it is time to move from the nest and be out on your own. This can be a very exciting time, but it is also full of questions that will need to be answered. The mixture of elation and apprehension that occurs during this time is understandable. That is why we are here to provide you with some first time moving suggestions that provide for a successful launch.Of course, it could be alluring to bribe your friends with pizza and soda to assist you with the move. Conserving some dollars by not having to find a moving company is a normal desire, but you will want to think twice. If you are not going to be hiring a professional mover in Colorado Springs then you are going to need to scrutinize your things.
You should also make sure that family and friends are even able to lend a hand. In a perfect setting, the assistance of both groups will be available. 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.
To say it another way what are the things that you have always expected would be subsidized by your parents? There are so many expenses that are in this category and you cannot make the blunder of forgetting to take into consideration any of them. What do you know about utilities or insurance? Have you ever done any grocery shopping for yourself?
Don't conclude that you already know everything that you need to know. Talk with your parents and find out more about all of the stuff that they have done for you. You may end up being aghast by the extended list of items to do that you receive because of this important conversation.
Are you aware of everything you need to handle? If utilities are together with the rent, great, but that is pretty uncommon these days. If they are not billed together, then make positive you know whether you will be paying direct to the utility company or via the landlord (the latter is normal if your new home is not metered). Make a schedule of the bills. Generally, you need to worry about utilities, cell phone, internet (and possibly cable, unless you plan on depending on streaming services). Additionally, you should buy renters' insurance. It is cheap, may be called for by your landlord, and commonly covers you from theft, damage, and even some liability.
Calculate out how much rent you can afford. It is not uncommon need your parents cosign on your first lease simply because you don't have the credit history. However, you need to be positive you can really afford the rent and utilities plus food, etc. Work up a budget for the other stuff you need and then figure out how much you have.
Plan out what you need to buy or come up with. You should do this after you have picked your apartment and signed the lease. Such as, if your new home has a built-in microwave, you will not need to purchase one. Put together a checklist of what you need. Next, arrange it so you can clearly identify what you need first and what can hold off for a bit. Such as, you definitely need trash cans, but might be able to wait on decorative pillows. Remember you can acquire some things gently used if you want.
A normal mistake that is made by non-experienced movers is a failure to obtain boxes ahead of time. By being as proactive as possible, a first-time mover has the power to sidestep the hassles of attempting to find moving supplies at the last possible moment. In the time leading up to the move, be sure to swing into local stores to figure out where you should 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 normally be purchased from your local moving company in Colorado Springs.
Selecting a home that is in the right neck of the woods is all about considering the realities of your existence. Where is your employer located? Where do you spend most of 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.
Think about the community structure also. Are you someone who likes to stay up late or are you looking to start a family? Pick the neighborhood that best fits your personal style in this regard.
Once you begin visiting apartments, it is crucial to keep in mind that most of the deal-breaking issues 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? Does the property look secure? What type of time-saving amenities are available at the site? How will you move your things inside? These are all questions that should be answered in full prior to signing the lease.
Review the lease carefully. Be sure you understand what you are signing. Asking your parents or an older friend for help is okay. Leases are often filled with confusing legal terminology and may contain rules that seem confusing. You need to comprehend how to interpret your lease, not just sign it blindly.
Unless hiring people to pack for you, pack ahead of time and over a few days. It is less nerve-racking 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 stressful, and it's not difficult to work yourself into a "tizzy." Relax, and have fun with it. Hiring professional movers is generally less stressful than doing everything yourself. If doing any of the packing and loading and unloading yourself, make sure to take breaks to rest and hydrate yourself. Don’t pack a carton 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 Colorado Springs 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 Colorado Springs, click here to contact us!!
