By Julie DeLong, A-1 Freeman Moving Group
So, you have finally determined that it is time to move from the nest and head out on your own. This can be a very fun time, but it is also filled with questions that will need to be answered. The mixture of jubilation and apprehension that takes place during this time is common. That's why we are here to assist you with some first time moving suggestions that allow for a successful move.Of course, it may be inviting to “pay” a few friends with pizza and soda to assist you with the move. Conserving cash by not having to hire professionals is a usual want, but you should think this decision through carefully. If you are not preparing to employ a professional mover in Tulsa then you are going to need to scrutinize your items.
You should also be sure that family and friends are even willing to lend a hand. In an optimal setting, the assistance of both parties would be on hand. We can always use an additional assistant or two but this is no substitute for the help and experience that a professional moving company has to offer.
In other words: what are the things that you have always presumed would be taken care of for you by your parents? There are a lot of items that are in this category and don’t make the mistake of neglecting to take into consideration any of them. Are you up to speed on utilities or insurance? Have you ever done your own grocery shopping?
Don't decide that you already know everything that you need to know. Discuss with your parents and find out more about all of the things that they have taken care of for you. You may end up being surprised by the extended to-do list that you get handed to you after this much-needed talk.
Do you know all of the things you need to pay for? If utilities are included with the rent, excellent, but that is pretty rare these days. If they are not billed together, then be confident you know whether you will be paying direct to the utility company or through the landlord (the latter is common if your new abode is not metered). Make a checklist of the bills. Generally, you will have to worry about utilities, cell phone, internet (and possibly cable, unless you plan on counting on streaming services). Additionally, you will need to buy renters' insurance. It's inexpensive, might be called for by your landlord, and usually covers you from 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. However, you must make sure you can actually afford the rent and utilities plus food, etc. Work up a budget for the other stuff you need and then calculate how much you have.
Work out what you should buy or come up with. You should do this after you have selected your apartment and executed the lease. For instance, if your new abode has a built-in microwave, you will not need to purchase one. Write down a checklist of what you need. Then, prioritize it so you can clearly identify which items you should buy right off the bat and what you can wait on. Such as, you surely need toilet paper, but might be able to wait on decorative pillows. Remember you can acquire a lot of things gently used if you want.
A common error that is made by first-time movers is a failure to collect cartons in a timely manner. By being as proactive as possible, a first-time mover has the capability to sidestep the hassles of attempting to track down moving materials at the last possible moment. In the month leading up to the move, make 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 usually be bought from your local moving company in Tulsa.
Finding a place that is in the best neck of the woods is all about thinking about the realities of your existence. Where will you be working? Where will you be when you have free time? Finding an apartment that doesn’t put you in a position where you have a long commute is usually vital.
Consider the community structure also. Are you someone who likes to party or are you looking to start a family? Pick the neighborhood that best fits your personal style in this regard.
Once you start visiting apartments, it is crucial to keep in mind that the majority of deal-breaking issues are going to be hiding out under the surface. For instance, examine 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 extra amenities are available at the site? How will you move your things inside? These are all questions that must be answered in full prior to signing on the dotted line.
Review the lease carefully. Make sure you understand what you are signing. Asking your parents or an older friend for help is not shameful. Leases are often multiple pages and may have rules that seem complex. You need to comprehend what is going on with your lease, not just sign it blindly.
Unless hiring people to pack for you, pack ahead of time and over a few days. It is less stressful that way. In addition, packing proactively 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 panic. Moving is a nerve-racking event, and it's simple to work yourself into a "tizzy." Slow down, and have fun with it. Hiring professional movers is usually less stressful than doing it yourself. If doing any of the physical work yourself, be sure to stay hydrated. Don’t pack a carton that is too heavy 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 Tulsa is a life changing event. Pay attention to 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 Tulsa, click here to contact us!!
