Moving into your own place can be a very exciting journey. Being anxious is completely normal for significant changes in your life. Change is essential for your growth yet we resist it because we fear to fail at adapting. This fear can cause us to make irrational and rash decisions. If you are moving into your very first apartment, there are several beginner mistakes you need to avoid. Knowing what to avoid can help you successfully stay on the right path and make a smooth transition into your new living environment.
Not Reading Your Lease
Before you move into your apartment and sign you lease, make sure you thoroughly read and understand everything. Things may be discussed verbally but not written in your lease physically. This can be quite messy in situations. For example, maybe the person signing you up says dogs can live with you for no charge; however, your lease is written differently. You may be under terms to be evicted for failure to comply with your contract in a situation that you were under the impression that you were obeying everything just fine. Your landlord may not be the one to sign you up and you may have a sales representative not being forward with you. Make sure you read your lease and discuss any areas in which seem questionable to you.
Buying Everything At Once
Once you move into your apartment, it can be exhilarating, but be smart! There are new living demands along with a new lifestyle of budgeting. Do not go and buy everything at once. You are not set on a mission to design the space the day you move into your new apartment. It is important to prioritize what you need in your apartment versus what you want in your apartment. As exciting as it may be to get artwork, rugs, and decor, it is important to take things slow and start with all your essentials. Time will determine what a “need” is and what a “want” is.
Furnishing for Short Term Goals
Be cognitive that you are not just furnishing for your short term goals. If you can get inexpensive furniture or items donated to you, take advantage of the opportunity. However, do not buy expensive furniture that is of value to your living space now. Unless you plan on staying in your apartment for years to come, be wise in your investments. Perhaps your bedroom can only fit a queen size bed, but in the future, you know you want a king. Do not spend a lot of money on furniture you will not need in the future. Be smart and consider everything that comes into your space.
Buying Everything “Cheap”
Understand what is worth investing in for your home. If you know an investment is substantial, save and buy the quality version. Do not put yourself in an endless cycle of buying “cheap” products that continually need to be replaced or refurbished every month. Buying inexpensive goods is a great idea for budgeting, but quality can be quantity when you are frequently replacing products. Be wary of over-furnishing your space as well. Perhaps, you have a small space that can fit one couch comfortably, but there is a sale if you buy three sofas as a set. Remember to consider your space and not go overboard.
Knowing when to be wary and what not to do is a great plan to help keep you on track for success. Do not be stressed about living on your own. This is an exciting time, and it will bring new adventures and opportunity! Remember to save, be cognitive of credit card debt, and consider renters insurance. All these little tips can help you successfully be a new renter!
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