By Julie DeLong, A-1 Freeman Moving Group
So, you have finally decided that it is time to move from the nest and head out on your own. This is usually a very exciting time, but it is also filled with questions that need to be answered. The mixture of jubilation and apprehension that takes place during this time is common. That is why we are here to assist you with some first time moving recommendations that allow for a successful transition.Of course, it might be inviting to bribe some friends with pizza and soda to assist you with the move. Saving money by not having to find a moving company is a normal desire, but you will want to think twice. If you are not planning to hire a professional mover in Dallas then you are going to need to look closely at your items.
You should also make sure that family and friends are even able to assist. In a perfect setting, the assistance of both parties would be on hand. We can always use an extra assistant or two but this is no substitute for the help and experience that a professional moving company can provide.
In other words: what are the expenses that you have always assumed would be subsidized by your parents? There are lots of expenses that are in this category and don’t make the error of failing to consider any of them. What do you know about utilities or insurance? Have you ever done any grocery shopping for yourself?
Don't think that you already know everything. Discuss with your parents and find out more about all of the stuff that they have done for you. You could end up being surprised by the extended list of things that you receive as a result of this much-needed conversation.
Do you know everything you will be required to handle? If utilities are bundled with the rent, super, but that is extremely unlikely anymore. If they are not billed together, then be positive you understand whether you will be paying direct to the utility company or via the landlord (the latter is common if your new place is not metered). Make a checklist of the bills. Basically, you will have to worry about utilities, cell phone, internet (and possibly cable, unless you will be counting on streaming services). Also, you should buy renters' insurance. It's inexpensive, might be required by your landlord, and normally covers you in the event of theft, damage, and even some liability.
Work out how much rent you can afford. It's very common have your parents cosign on your first lease simply because you do not have the credit history. But, you must be confident you can actually manage the rent in addition to utilities plus food, etc. Come up with a budget for the other expenses you have and then figure out how much you have.
Figure out what you should buy or acquire. You should do this after you have choosen your apartment and executed the lease. Such as, if your new place comes with a microwave, you should not need to purchase one. Write down a checklist of what you need. Then, arrange it so you can clearly identify which items you will want to purchase right off the bat and which items can hold off for a bit. For instance, you will need trash cans, but might be able to wait on decorative rugs. Remember you can buy lots of things gently used if needed.
A routine mistake that is made by non-experienced movers is a failure to obtain cartons far enough in advance. By planning ahead, a first-time mover has the power to sidestep the hassles of attempting to track down moving materials at the eleventh hour. In the time ahead of the move, make sure to stop by local retailers to find out where you should go for the boxes that you need. Some may give them away and others may ask for a nominal fee. Or, good quality moving supplies can usually be purchased from your local moving company in Dallas.
Choosing a home that is in the right neighborhood is all about thinking about the realities of your existence. Where is your employer located? Where do you spend most of your free time? Choosing an apartment that doesn’t place you in a position where you are forced to endure long commutes is usually important.
Consider the community composition as well. Are you a person who likes to party or are you looking to settle down? Choose the neighborhood that best fits your personal goals in this regard.
Once you commence looking at apartments, it is important to not forget that most of the deal-breaking issues are going to be hiding beneath the surface. For example, take a closer look at the windows to make sure that the seals are not broken or compromised in any way.
Are the neighbors too rambunctious? Does the property look secure? What type of extra amenities are available on the property? Will it be easy for you to move your belongings inside? These are all questions that need to be answered in full before signing on the dotted line.
Look over the lease carefully. Be sure you know what you are signing. Asking your parents or an older friend for assistance is okay. Leases are often filled with confusing legal terminology and may have rules that seem complex. You need to understand what is going on with your lease, not just sign it blindly.
Unless hiring a moving crew to pack for you, pack ahead of time and over a few days. It is less tense that way. In addition, packing ahead of time 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.
Do not fret. Moving is stressful, and it's not difficult to work yourself into a "tizzy." Relax, and have fun with it. Hiring professional movers is going to be less stressful than doing it yourself. If doing any of the packing and loading and unloading yourself, be sure to take breaks to rest and hydrate yourself. Don’t pack a carton that is too heavy 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 Dallas 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 Dallas, click here to contact us!!
