Getting ready to move into your first apartment is a mark of independence and should be approached with planning. In purchasing a first apartment there can be many mistakes made if research and enough money is not saved.

Here a few things you need to know before renting your first apartment:

Upfront Costs

Apartments don’t just involve the sticker costs but there are also other hidden costs that would need preparation. Along with the cost of a month, landowners will also request a security deposit that will protect them if you destroy the place and it is later returned upon the end of your lease. Other costs that will ensue include the application fees. It is important to keep in mind all upfront costs and save enough to avoid price shock.

Long Term Costs

Along with your monthly rent, other costs that are important to keep in mind are gas, water, electric, and possibly renter’s insurance. Depending on the apartment water, electric, and gas may be inclusive of the rent or non-inclusive, which would result in you setting it up in your name and reaching out to utility companies.

What you will need – A new place is very exciting time and making your place a home that reflects yourself and your growth will take time and patience. A few basic pieces you will need to get started include a bed, a couch, a table, chairs, towels, shower curtains, utensils, and cooking utensils.

Don’t bring items you don’t need – It’s hard to let go of items but when you move into a new place it’s a good time to purge yourself of old things and things you don’t need to leave room for the new and generally be de-cluttered.

Lease Terms

Make sure you read over the lease terms carefully and if you don’t understand all the legal terms look it up online or have someone knowledgeable look over the terms as well.

Location

Location is very important and depending on what your needs are you should consider food options available near your apartment, modes of transportation, schools in the area if you have children, if it’s quite or if there are lots of activities near your apartment. Keep in mind what you need, what you enjoy, and decide if the location is fitting.

Moving Plans

It is important to understand exactly how you will move into your apartment. Moving into your place cannot be done alone and if you can’t find people to help you move in then it will be important to call a movers to ease your transition into your apartment.

Storage Options

If you want to keep an organized place it should be a priority to have storage options to fit your space needs. Under bed storage, closet organizers, etc. are important to ensure a smooth and organized move into your apartment.

Design Scheme

Plan out how you would want your apartment to look and keep that in mind when purchasing items for your place.