By Julie DeLong, A-1 Freeman Moving Group
So, you have finally decided that it is time to move from the nest and be out on your own. This will be a very jubilant time, but it is also full of questions that require to be answered. The mixture of jubilation and fear that takes place during this time is common. That's why we are here to provide you with some first time moving suggestions that provide for a successful transition.Yes, it may be tempting to bribe some friends with pizza and soda to help with the move. Saving some dollars by not having to hire a moving company is a normal want, but you will need to think twice. If you are not preparing to employ a professional mover in Atlanta then you are going to need to take a closer look at your things.
You must also make sure that family and friends are even able to assist. In a perfect world, the help from both groups would be combined. We can always use an extra assistant or two but this is no substitute for the help and experience that a professional moving company brings to the table.
Or... what are the items that you have always expected would be subsidized by your parents? There are a lot of items that appear in this category and you cannot make the mistake of forgetting to plan for any of them. What do you know about utilities or insurance? Have you ever been to the grocery by yourself?
Don't decide that you already know it all. Discuss with your parents and ask about all of the items that they have done for you. You may end up being aghast by the long to-do list that you receive after this important talk.
Are you aware of all of the things you will be required to pay for? If utilities are included with the rent, super, but that is extremely uncommon these days. If they are not bundled, then be sure you understand whether you will be paying direct to the utility company or through the landlord (the latter is common if your new place is not metered). Make a checklist of the bills. Generally, you need to worry about utilities, cell phone, internet (and possibly cable, unless you plan on depending on streaming services). Also, you will need to buy renters' insurance. It's cheap, 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 afford. It is very common have your parents cosign on your first lease simply because you don't have the credit history. But, you need to be positive you can really manage the rent and utilities plus food, etc. Work up a budget for the other stuff you need and then calculate how much you have.
Figure out what you must purchase or acquire. You should do this after you have choosen your apartment and signed the lease. Such as, if your new home comes with a microwave, you will not need to purchase one. Assemble a checklist of everything you need. Then, prioritize it so it is clear what you will want to purchase first and what purchases can be delayed. For example, you surely need sheets for your bed, but might be able to wait on decorative blankets. Don’t forget you can purchase a lot of things gently used if you want.
A common error that is made by non-experienced movers is a failure to get boxes far enough in advance. By planning ahead, a first-time mover has the power to sidestep the hassles of trying to get moving supplies at the last possible moment. In the month before the move, be sure to visit local retail stores to figure out where you can go to get 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 Atlanta.
Selecting an apartment that is in the best area is all about thinking about the realities of your existence. Where is your employer located? Where do you spend most of your free time? Finding an apartment that doesn’t place you in a position where you are forced to endure long commutes is usually important.
Think about the community composition also. Are you a person who likes to stay up late or are you looking to start a family? Choose the neighborhood that lines up with your personal goals in this regard.
Once you commence looking at apartments, it is vital to remember that the majority of deal-breaking points of contention are going to be hiding beneath the surface. For example, inspect the windows to be sure that they are not water damaged or compromised in any way.
Are the neighbors too loud? How does the security set up look? What type of extra amenities are available at the site? How will you move your belongings inside? These are all questions that should be answered in full before signing on the dotted line.
Read the lease carefully. Be sure you comprehend what you are signing. Asking your parents or an older friend for help is not shameful. Leases are often multiple pages and may contain rules that seem odd. You need to comprehend what is going on with 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 tense that way. In addition, packing proactively helps make sure you pack the belongings you need least first and the things you need most last, that is on the top.
Don't panic. Moving is stressful, and it is easy to work yourself into a "tizzy." Relax, and have fun with it. Hiring professional movers is usually less stressful than doing it yourself. If doing any of the heavy lifting yourself, be sure to drink plenty of water. Do not pack a box that you are unable to lift. (This is another good reason to hire movers, who are accustomed 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 Atlanta is one of the biggest steps you will take in your life. Heed the above suggestions to make it all go well and avoid getting into financial, or other, trouble. And, if you need help with moving in or to Atlanta, click here to contact us!!
