Moving into your first apartment after college

College is finally over and now it’s time to find your first apartment. You’re probably still thinking about throwing parties and having friends over, and you think that nothing has really changed. However, some things are going to change. Moving into your first apartment after college is a new step in your life. While you still might be thinking about living with roommates, there are going to be a couple of changes.

Moving into your first apartment after college includes paying rent

Before actually moving into your new apartment, you need to find one for rent. Also, that means that you’re going to have to visit at least a couple of apartments. Feel free to ask just about everything you can think of. Try the faucets, check if the electricity is working well. Can you open the windows properly? The more you ask, the fewer chances are that you’re going to be unpleasantly surprised. And the most important thing is that you’re going to have to financially responsible for your new life.

What about roommates

Some things don’t have to change. It’s not very cheap to live by yourself. Since you can no longer live on a student budget, you’re going to have to find a job. And in it the beginning especially, it would be cheaper to find a roommate. And that presents a whole new challenge. What kind of roommate would you want to live with? Try to find someone you share similar interests with. And there are several ways to do it:

• You can ask friends if they need a roommate or friend. It might be better to find someone you know.
• On the other hand, sometimes it’s better to find a completely new person, on social networks or rental websites. Try to see if they’re responsible and clean and the rest should not be extremely important. In the end, you don’t need to be the best friends.

Be a qualified applicant

There is one rule in most cases: the first applicant that’s qualified will be the one to get an apartment. That’s the reason why you should have all your applicant information ready, so you can hand it out on spot. That means that you need to have all of the basic information as well as written references from previous apartment owners. But, you’re moving into your first apartment after college and don’t have any references. Luckily, you can ask your former resident assistant to give you references. Also, bank statements might come in handy, as well as proof that you have enough money for a couple of rents. That way, you’ll be ready when your dream apartment comes up.

Hire reliable movers

When it comes to moving in general, it’s extremely useful to have a good moving company by your side. That way, you won’t have to think about a lot of different issues and you won’t be overwhelmed. If your future roommate or friends can’t help you with moving, reliable movers can help with moving household belongings.

 Choose your new neighborhood

It’s important to choose a neighborhood that’s going to fit your new lifestyle

Most people move to cities after college. But, they also need to choose the right neighborhood. The key is to choose a neighborhood that will fit their lifestyle. For example, are there bars, or coffee shops and restaurants nearby? What about the nightlife in general? Are there good job opportunities nearby? What about the weekday commute? These are all factors to take into consideration. The most basic choice is between a quiet neighborhood and the one with sizzling nightlife. It’s up to you.

Money’s important

Money is one of the important factors when moving into your first apartment after college. As a student, you probably have to handle a student loan. On top of that, your new life is not going to be very cheap. And landlords can check your credit score and deny you the apartment. That’s why it’s good to have some extra cash in advance and to offer two months rent in advance along with a security deposit. One of the options is having a co-signer. But, that choice is yours to make.

Don’t forget to read the fine print

The fine print can have something that you don’t want to put your signature on, so be careful!

Once you decided on the apartment, you should read your lease carefully. Some clauses might be completely illegal, depending on the state laws. That’s especially important if you happen to have a problem with the landlord. On the other hand, some clauses might be completely legal and not work to your benefit. Also, they could be written in the fine print and you can completely miss them. So, be very careful about what you’re signing and know all the rules that you’ll need to live by.

Decorate your new apartment

Starting a new life after college is a wonderful experience. For example, this is the first time you can decorate your apartment anyway you want, especially if you’re going to live by yourself. But, as that can be expensive, shop at thrift shops and find what you need. Also, you can make something yourself. The only limit is your creativity. And the time that you have available.

Welcome your new life smiling

Welcome your new life and all that it includes with a smile on your face

And now you’re moving into your first apartment after college. But what’s next? This is the most independent you’ve ever been. There are going to be numerous new experiences as well as certain challenges. But, don’t forget to welcome all of them with a smile on your face. Each of them is going to prepare you and make you stronger for what’s ahead. This is what you’ve been waiting for. Are you ready?