You’re about to move into your very first apartment! Living in a new place gives you the freedom to decorate your home however you like. However, before you start packing up your belongings, be aware that moving into a first apartment also comes with a long list of responsibilities.
Here are six tips from your trusted Alexandria movers to help ensure a hassle-free move:
1. Know What to Expect
Since you’re new to the apartment game, you might feel a bit apprehensive about what to expect when you move in. Trying to understand your landlord’s requirements might be a bit overwhelming—but don’t worry! You don’t have to know everything before moving into your first apartment, but take note of essential rules.
2. Be Aware of Your Moving Obligations
Your first home might be a leased apartment for the upcoming school year. In many cases, the landlord will handle most of the moving process. However, if you’re moving into a privately owned home, you’re responsible for carrying your belongings. If you’re paying rent on your apartment, you’re also responsible for paying a security deposit and a few months of rent in advance.
3. Sort Your Mail Situation
Depending on your living situation, you may want to decide which mailbox you’re going to use before you move. If you share the apartment with roommates, you’ll need to determine who will be responsible for the mail. If you have the apartment on your own and will be out most of the time, you’ll also need to decide whether you’re going to keep your current address or have your mail forwarded.
4. Set Up Utilities
When living in an apartment, it’s easy to forget that you have to pay for your utilities. Before you move in, it’s a good idea to call up the water and power company to ensure you have a few months to pay off your balance before the bill comes due. You might also want to look into a few other utilities—like internet and cable—if they aren’t included in your lease.
5. Give the Apartment a Good Cleaning
Before you move into your first apartment, it might be a good idea to give it a good cleaning. You never know what kind of surprises await you behind closed doors! Even if your apartment is listed as clean and ready, you might have to do a bit of laundry and deep cleaning before you move in.
If your landlord hired a professional cleaner to prepare the apartment, then it’s a good idea to make sure you have the keys before you meet with them.
6. Explore the Neighborhood
You’re about to start a whole new chapter of your life! While it might be tempting to stay inside and unpack your bags, you should take some time to explore your new home. Make sure to check out your new neighborhood to see the different shops and restaurants you have at your fingertips. Your future neighbors will appreciate your willingness to be a good neighbor!
Conclusion
When you’re moving into your first apartment, you want to ensure that your move goes smoothly and makes the transition into your new home as easy as possible. It’s better to be prepared ahead of time than to be unprepared when moving in. Remember: moving day is stressful, but only if you let it!
The easiest part of moving is hauling your stuff from your current home to your new one. As long as you have the best Alexandria movers helping you, you won’t have to worry about this part of your move.
Division 1 Moving & Storage is one of the most reliable local movers in Alexandria, VA. Our team of seasoned movers can ensure that your belongings are transported to your new home in a safe and timely manner. Contact us today to find out how we can help make your move smoother!