🫨Moving into a new apartment? Don't panic!

We've got your essential post-move checklist right here

Author

My First Move
August 17, 2024

Happy Saturday Roomies!

Signing the lease on a new apartment or rental may feel like the first step into true adulthood. But no one mentions how terrifying it actually is.

High school never taught us about taxes, 401ks, taking out a loan, or in some cases (especially in the U.S. 😬) how to practice safe sex… All of the things to being a functional and productive adult are conveniently left out during your teens.

And that sucks!

Although we’re no experts in Roth IRAs, we’ve got this home-living thing down to a science. We’re here to help you on your journey and take the stress out of living on your own.

In today’s email:

  • New Digs, New To-Do List: The four things you should do after move-in

  • Apartment Need to Knows: Using your bike to commute could cost you

Pick of the week: Upgrade your kitchen game with this bamboo double-sided cutting board. It’s got juice grooves and you can even prop your phone on it to follow along with your favorite cooking videos.

Apartment Essentials

First Things to Do When You Move Into a New Apartment

You've unpacked the boxes (mostly) and ordered a pizza for the night. Time for the move-in dance party, right? Not quite. There's more to settling in than just finding a home for your coffee maker.

Today, we're unpacking the ultimate post-move checklist. From air quality to security systems, we've got the insider tips to make your new house feel like home – and keep it safe and sound.

Here's what should be on move-in to-do list:

Start with the essentials

It's tempting to furnish your entire place in one weekend, but your wallet will thank you for pacing yourself. Start with the basics: a comfortable bed, a place to sit, and a surface to eat on.

Oh and don't forget the little things:

Pro tip: Keep a running list of items as you realize you need them. It's easy to overspend in the excitement of a new place.

Clean those air ducts

It might not be glamorous, but cleaning your air ducts should top your to-do list. A professional cleaning, including air ducts, isn't just about dust – it's about starting fresh in your new space.

The price tag?

According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the National Air Duct Cleaners Association (NADCA), expect to shell out between $450 and $1,000, depending on your home's size. Investing in your health and comfort pays dividends in clean air and peace of mind.

If the costs are too much, replace your HVAC filters. Depending on the size of your system, they can go for around $20.

Generally, most air filter manufacturers recommend changing your air filter every 90 days, or 3 months. That can change based on where your home is located (ex. dusty, dry climates), if you have any pets, and the age of your system and equipment.

Beef up security

Consider installing a monitoring system ASAP.

Before you crank up the tunes, take a moment to assess your home's security. No neighborhood is 100% "safe." Installing a security or monitoring system should be a top priority.

Whether you opt for a DIY setup or professional installation, it's an investment in your safety.

Complete your move-in inspection

If you're renting, a move-in inspection sheet is your new best friend. Document everything – yes, even that tiny scuff on the baseboard.

Take photos, videos, and notes.

It's not just about getting your security deposit back; it's about addressing any maintenance issues right from the start.

Whether a 2-bed or studio, rental prices are higher than ever.

If you're moving to live on your own for the first time or want to get a new place before the year ends, your search has to start now.

The Apartment Search Assistant helps you to compare apartments and prioritize the things that matter most to you.

Inside the Apartment Search Assistant:

  • Add apartment viewings to your calendar

  • Track recent visits, favorites, and new listings

  • Record application fees, lease length, pros & cons

  • Questions to ask the landlord to uncover red flags

Apartment Need to Knows

🚲Bike Storage Fees: Many urban apartments are now charging extra fees for bike storage. If you rely on a bike for commuting, factor this into your budget and check the building’s policy. Some cities, like Philadelphia, have laws requiring landlords to provide secure bike parking, so know your rights.

🚿Showerhead Swap: Many apartments come with basic, low-pressure showerheads. Invest in a high-efficiency model that can be easily swapped out to enhance your shower experience. Just keep the original to reinstall when you move out.

🌍Remote Work Perks: Many landlords are offering perks like faster internet or coworking spaces to attract remote workers. If you're working from home, negotiate for these amenities when signing a lease, especially in tech-savvy cities like Boston or Raleigh.

🚗Congestion Pricing Impact: New York City is implementing congestion pricing, which could make owning a car in the city even more expensive. If you're considering renting in Manhattan or nearby, weigh the costs of parking and commuting, as these fees might make public transit or car-sharing more attractive.

Moving into a new place is more than just a change of address – it's the start of a new chapter.

It's okay if everything isn't perfect right away. Home is a journey, not a destination. So once you've checked off the big items on your list, don't forget to take a moment to celebrate.

Maybe now it's time for that dance party after all.

Got any moving horror stories or genius hacks to share? We'd love to hear them! Drop us a DM on Instagram or TikTok and we’ll share them in our next issue.

Turn Your First Place Into Your Happy Place

Was this email forwarded to you?

Reply

or to participate.