Moving into a new apartment can be fun and exciting, but it can also be a drain on your energy and your wallet. 
Not only do many landlords ask for first month’s rent, last month’s rent, a security deposit, and sometimes even an agency fee, but buying all of the things that you will need in your need apartment can cost a lot too. The following tips will help you both financially and emotionally in your big move.
1. Ask Around
Before going out and buying anything for the new apartment, ask all of your friends and family if they have any extra furniture or appliances they want to get rid of. Be specific—make a list of what you need before you begin asking. Perhaps they forgot about the extra lamps they dumped in the basement when they redecorated. Chances are that many people (typically homeowners) will be looking to unload their unwanted stuff on you for free.
Just remember, you don’t need everything all at once. As long as you have a bed to sleep in and a stove to cook on, then you can live without the matching dining room set and the toaster oven for a little while. Wait for good deals or offers to come around.
2. Make Friends with a Truck Owner
Seriously. You need to figure out who you know has a pickup truck that you feel comfortable borrowing for the day. Oftentimes, furniture will pop up on the side of the road on trash day, and you’ll want a way to take advantage of this. No need to feel like a mooch—simply buy them dinner and drinks as a thank you for helping you move.
3. Shop Small
Do all of your preliminary shopping (grocery necessities, cleaning supplies, etc.) at a discounted retailer, such as Ocean State Job Lot or Big Lots. You’ll spend a lot less at one of these stores than your local grocer or even Target.
A dollar store is another great place to load up on kitchen supplies. Just be careful when purchasing food items at a dollar store—it might seem like a great deal to get ten cans of soup for only $10, but sometimes grocery stores will have even better discounts.
4. Make it Home
The best way to feel comfortable in a new place is to bring things from your old home. This can include anything from bed linens to your actual bed. Fabric can really soften a place, so getting a rug and curtains will give a new place a homey feel. Don’t hesitate to decorate!
5. Sort Out the Finances
It can be complicated sharing expenses with a roommate, especially when having to split the costs of so many different things at once, such as a moving truck, grocery bills, and furniture. Be sure to keep all your receipts for these kinds of purchases. There are also great apps out there (BillPin is a great free one) that will do the math for you and keep track of what you and your roommates owe each other. Seeing this record of who paid for what will keep all parties responsible for their portion of the funds.
6. Get Renters Insurance
Few renters actually obtain renters insurance, and this is a big mistake. The landlord’s insurance only covers the actual apartment—the walls, the foundation, etc.–while nothing inside is covered. Should anything bad happen (such as a break-in, fire, flood, etc.), then your possessions will be covered under your renters insurance. You will also be covered if someone is injured inside your apartment and attempts to sue. The best part about renters insurance is that it tends to be extremely inexpensive type of insurance, and may even be cheaper to bundle it with your other types of insurance.
If you would like to learn more about getting renters insurance, please contact the agents at TJ Woods Insurance. We’d be happy to help you feel safe in your new apartment.
