By Julie DeLong, A-1 Freeman Moving Group
So, you have really determined that it is time to leave the nest and strike out on your own. This is usually a very jubilant time, but it is also brimming with questions that require to be answered. The mixture of excitement and apprehension that ensues during these times is understandable. That is why we are here to provide you with some first time moving recommendations that provide for a successful launch.Yes, it could be alluring to bribe a few friends with pizza and soda to help with the move. Conserving some dollars by not having to find professionals is a normal desire, but you should think twice. If you are not preparing to hire a professional mover in Houston 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 an ideal setting, the assistance of both groups would be on hand. We can always use an additional set of hands 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 items that you have always assumed would be taken care of for you by your parents? There are so many things that fall into this classification and you shouldn’t make the blunder 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 decide that you already know everything that you need to know. Sit down with your parents and question them about all of the stuff that they have taken care of for you. You just might end up being astonished by the extended list of things that you receive after this crucial conversation.
Do you know everything you need to pay for? If utilities are bundled with the rent, great, but that is extremely rare anymore. If they are not bundled, then make sure you understand whether you will be paying direct to the utility company or via the landlord (the latter is normal if your new home is not metered). Make a checklist of the bills. Usually, you will have to be aware of utilities, cell phone, internet (and possibly cable, unless you will be relying on streaming services). Also, you should obtain renters' insurance. It is cheap, might be required by your landlord, and normally covers you from theft, damage, and even some liability.
Figure out how much rent you can afford. It's very common to have to have your parents cosign on your first lease simply because you do not have the credit history. But, you should be positive you can really pay for the rent plus utilities plus food, etc. Come up with a budget for the other things you have to pay for and then see how much you have.
Figure out what you should purchase or come up with. You should do this after you have selected your apartment and signed the lease. For example, if your new abode comes with a microwave, you should not need to purchase one. Put together a checklist of what you need. Then, prioritize it so it is clear what you will want to purchase right off the bat and what can hold off for a bit. Such as, you surely need trash cans, but might be able to wait on decorative pillows. Remember you can purchase some items gently used if needed.
A normal mistake that is made by non-experienced movers is a failure to obtain boxes far enough in advance. By thinking ahead, a first-time mover has the ability to bypass the hassles of trying to find moving materials at the last possible moment. In the month leading up to the move, make sure to stop by local retailers to figure out where you should go to get the boxes that you need. Some may give them to you for free and others may charge a nominal fee. Or, good quality moving supplies can normally be bought from your local moving company in Houston.
Selecting a place that is in the best area is all about contemplating the realities of your existence. Where will you be working? Where do you spend most of your free time? Selecting an apartment that doesn’t place you in a position where you are forced to endure long commutes is usually important.
Ponder the community makeup also. Are you someone who likes to stay up late or are you looking to settle down? Choose the neighborhood that best fits your personal style in this regard.
Once it is time to commence visiting apartments, it is vital to remember that the majority of 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 loud? Does the property look secure? What type of time-saving amenities are available at the site? Will it be easy for you to move your belongings inside? These are all questions that must be answered in full prior to signing any paperwork.
Read the lease carefully. Be sure you understand what you are signing. Asking your parents or an older friend for help is okay. Leases are legal documents and may contain rules that seem odd. You need to understand the terms of your lease, not just sign it blindly.
Unless hiring a moving company to pack for you, pack ahead of time and over a few days. It's less tense that way. Also, packing proactively helps make sure you pack the items you need least first and the things you need most last, so that when you unpack, these items will be on the top.
Don't worry. Moving is an anxious time, and it is not difficult to work yourself into a "tizzy." Take a deep breath, and have fun with it. Hiring professional movers is going to be less stressful than doing the move yourself. If doing any of the physical work yourself, make sure to take breaks to rest and hydrate yourself. Do not pack a carton that you are unable to lift. (This is another wonderful 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 Houston 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 Houston, click here to contact us!!
