By Julie DeLong, A-1 Freeman Moving Group
So, you have really determined that it is time to fly from the nest and head out on your own. This is usually a very exciting time, but it is also full of questions that need to be answered. The mixture of elation and fear that occurs during this time is normal. That's why we are here to help you with the first time moving recommendations that allow for a successful transition.Of course, it may be inviting to “pay” your friends with pizza and soda to assist you with the move. Saving money by not having to find professionals is a usual desire, but you will want to think twice. If you are not going to be hiring a professional mover in Little Rock then you are going to want to look closely at your items.
You must also be sure that family and friends are even willing to lend a hand. In an optimal setting, the help from both groups would be available. We can always use an extra set of hands or two but this is no substitute for the help and experience that a professional moving company has to offer.
To say it another way what are the items that you have always presumed would be subsidized by your parents? There are lots of things that fall into this classification and you cannot make the blunder of neglecting to plan for any of them. Are you up to speed on utilities or insurance? Have you ever been to the grocery by yourself?
Do not decide that you already know everything that you need to know. Sit down with your parents and ask about all of the things that they have taken care of for you. You just might end up being astonished by the extended list of items to do that you get put on your plate as a result of this crucial talk.
Do you know all of the things you will be required to take care of? If utilities are bundled with the rent, excellent, but that is pretty rare anymore. If they are not billed together, then make sure you understand whether you will be paying directly to the utility company or via the landlord (the latter is normal if your new abode is not metered). Make a list of the bills. Usually, you need to worry about utilities, cell phone, internet (and possibly cable, unless you plan on counting on streaming services). Additionally, you will want to get renters' insurance. It is cheap, might be called for by your landlord, and commonly covers you in the event of theft, damage, and even some liability.
Calculate out how much rent you can afford. It is pretty normal have your parents cosign on your first lease simply because you do not have the credit history. Yet, you need to be positive you can actually pay for the rent plus utilities plus food, etc. Work up a budget for the other things you have to pay for and then see how much you have.
Figure out what you should buy or acquire. You should do this after you have picked your apartment and executed the lease. For instance, if your new abode comes with a microwave, you will not need to buy one. Write down a checklist of what you need. Next, prioritize it so you know which items you need first and which items can hold off for a bit. Such as, you will need trash cans, but might be able to wait on throw blankets. Keep in mind you can buy some stuff second hand if you want.
A normal error that is made by rookie movers is a failure to collect boxes in a timely manner. By being as proactive as possible, a first-time mover has the capability to sidestep the issues of trying to track down moving supplies at the eleventh hour. In the month ahead of the move, be sure to swing into local retailers to figure out where you should 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 Little Rock.
Selecting an apartment that is in the right neighborhood is all about thinking about the realities of your existence. Where will you be working? Where do you spend most of your free time? Choosing an apartment that does not put you in a position where you have a long commute is usually important.
Think about the community composition as well. Are you someone who likes to party or are you looking to settle down? Select the neighborhood that best fits your personal style in this regard.
Once it is time to start looking at apartments, it is important to keep in mind that most of the deal-breaking problems are going to be lurking under the surface. For instance, examine the windows to be sure that the seals are not broken or compromised in any way.
Are the neighbors too loud? How does the security set up look? What type of extra amenities are available on the property? Will it be easy for you to move your things inside? These are all questions that must be answered in full before signing the lease.
Review the lease carefully. Make sure you understand what you are signing. Asking your parents or an older friend for assistance is perfectly normal. Leases are legal documents and may contain rules that seem odd. You need to know the terms of 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 nerve-racking that way. Also, packing in advance helps make sure you pack the things you need least first and the things you need most last, that is on the top.
Don't fret. Moving is an anxious time, and it's simple to work yourself into a "tizzy." Relax, and have fun with it. Hiring professional movers is going to be less stressful than doing the move yourself. If doing any of the packing and loading and unloading yourself, be sure to drink plenty of water. Do not 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 Little Rock 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 Little Rock, click here to contact us!!
