By Julie DeLong, A-1 Freeman Moving Group
So, you have finally determined that it is time to move from the nest and strike out on your own. This will be a very fun time, but it is also filled with questions that will need to be answered. The mixture of elation and apprehension that ensues during this time is normal. That is why we are here to help you with the first time moving suggestions that allow for a successful transition.Yes, it could be alluring to “pay” a few friends with pizza and soda to help with the move. Saving cash by not having to find a moving company is a normal desire, but you will need to take an objective point of view in these instances. If you are not going to be hiring a professional mover in Oklahoma City then you are going to have to scrutinize your things.
You must also make sure that family and friends are even able to assist. In an ideal world, the help from both groups would be on hand. We can always use an additional assistant or two but this is no comparison to the help and experience that a professional moving company can provide.
Or... what are the expenses that you have always presumed would be subsidized by your parents? There are lots of expenses that fall into this category and you cannot make the error of failing to plan for any of them. Do you know anything about utilities or insurance? Have you ever done your own grocery shopping?
Do not decide that you already know it all. Discuss with your parents and question them about all of the items that they have done for you. You could end up being surprised by the lengthy list of items to do that you get put on your plate as a result of this important conversation.
Do you know everything you will need to handle? If utilities are included with the rent, excellent, but that is very uncommon these days. If they are not bundled, then make sure you are aware whether you will be paying directly to the utility company or via the landlord (the latter is common if your new abode is not metered). Make a checklist of the bills. Generally, you will have to be aware of utilities, cell phone, internet (and possibly cable, unless you plan on counting on streaming services). In addition, you will want to get renters' insurance. It's inexpensive, could be required by your landlord, and commonly covers you in the event of theft, damage, and even some liability.
Figure out how much rent you can really afford. It's not uncommon to have to have your parents cosign on your first lease simply because you do not have the credit history. Yet, you must make positive you can really pay for the rent in addition to utilities plus food, etc. Write down a budget for the other expenses you have and then calculate how much you have.
Work out what you must buy or acquire. You should do this after you have choosen your apartment and signed the lease. Such as, if your new place has a built-in microwave, you should not need to buy one. Assemble a checklist of everything you need. Next, arrange it so you know what you should buy right off the bat and what purchases can be delayed. For instance, you will need sheets for your bed, but might be able to wait on throw rugs. Keep in mind you can acquire a lot of things gently used if you want.
A normal error that is made by non-experienced movers is a failure to get cartons ahead of time. By planning ahead, a first-time mover has the capability to bypass the hassles of trying to get moving supplies at the eleventh hour. In the month leading up to the move, be sure to swing into local retail stores to find out where you might go to obtain the boxes that you need. Some may give them to you for free and others may ask for a nominal fee. Or, good quality moving supplies can always be purchased from your local moving company in Oklahoma City.
Choosing a place that is in the right neck of the woods is all about considering the realities of your existence. Where is your employer located? What do you like to do in your free time? Finding an apartment that doesn’t put you in a position where you are forced to endure long commutes is usually key.
Think about the community composition also. Are you a person who likes to party or are you looking to start a family? Pick the neighborhood that best fits your personal goals in this regard.
Once it is time to start looking at apartments, it is vital to not forget that the majority of deal-breaking problems are going to be hiding out beneath the surface. For example, take a closer look at the windows to make sure that they are not water damaged or compromised in any way.
Are the neighbors too loud? How does the security set up look? What type of extra amenities are available at the site? How will you move your stuff inside? These are all questions that should be answered in full prior to signing the lease.
Read the lease carefully. Make sure you comprehend 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 comprehend the terms of your lease, not just sign it blindly.
Unless hiring a moving crew to pack for you, pack proactively and over a few days. It is less nerve-racking that way. In addition, packing proactively helps make sure you pack the belongings you need least first and the things you need most last, that is on the top.
Do not fret. Moving is an anxious time, and it is simple 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 packing and loading and unloading yourself, make sure to stay hydrated. Never pack a box that weights too much for you to lift. (This is another wonderful reason to hire movers, who are accustomed 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 Oklahoma City is one of the biggest steps you will take in your life. Follow the above suggestions to make it all go well and avoid getting into financial, or other, trouble. And, if you need help with moving in or to Oklahoma City, click here to contact us!!
