Moving into your first apartment is an exciting experience. There’s something fulfilling about sitting in your bedroom or living room for the first time and experiencing peace and stillness. However, before you begin shopping and getting settled in, you need to know a few essential tips about your first apartment.
Don’t Forget Rental Insurance
A common mistake many first-time renters make is not acquiring rental insurance. While some complexes require that you have it, some don’t, and renters will skip adding insurance to their bills due to myths about rental insurance. It’s important to note that rental insurance isn’t as expensive as you’d think, and it could save you stress and money in case an incident or emergency happens. Rental insurance can also cover your items even when they’re not in your apartment, so that’s something to think about.
Grab These Specific Essentials
Another first apartment tip is to get the things you need. We get so caught up in Pinterest boards that we forget the necessities. While you may need a couch or coffee table when you move into your new apartment, you need a few essentials the first day you move in. The following items are:
- Vacuum cleaner
- First aid kit
- Laundry basket
- Step stool
- Curtains
- Batteries
- Hand soap
- Dish soap
- Trash cans
- Cleaning supplies
- Broom and dustpan
- Fire extinguisher
Understand Your Monthly Expenses
Whether you’re living on your own or with your partner or roommates, you need to know how much you can afford to spend every month on rent and utilities. Your rental expenses shouldn’t be over 30 percent of your income. Take into consideration all your bills before factoring in your rental costs. It’s important to keep a stable budget and stick to it!
Read the Rental Agreement Thoroughly
After packing all night and hauling all your items, we understand how eager you are to sign the lease and grab your keys. However, before signing your initials, you should always know what you agree to. Leasing documents can be lengthy and full of legal fluff, but it’s necessary that you read every line.
These agreements include information about your payment due dates, community guidelines and rules, maintenance guidelines, and more. Thus, thoroughly reading the lease is critical to ensure you don’t miss any hidden obligations.