How To Comfortably Settle Into Your New Apartment
If you are staring down the barrel of a daunting move to a new city, you’ll probably be worried about packing and logistics. Many people are so preoccupied with moving that they don’t think about what they need to do when they get to their new apartment.
Even though the average American moves roughly 12 times in his or her life, there is always something you are going to forget along the way. It could be as simple as your favorite pair of fuzzy moccasins, or as detrimental as forgetting to change your address.
And since it costs $1,170 on average to move somewhere else in your state, you’ll want to make sure you’re ready to settle in comfortably. Here are some handy tips and tricks that can make settling into your new apartment a fun experience.
Change Your Address
This is especially important if you receive your bills through the mail. The Department of Motor Vehicles also needs to know where you live, and so does your insurance.
For convenience, change your address on Amazon and any other online retail stores you regularly order from. Sending a package to the wrong location by accident can be massively frustrating.
Video Document The Interior
If you want to get your security deposit back at the end of your lease, the safe bet is to take a video of every inch of the apartment the way it was before you move any of your belongings. This way you have evidence of existing damages that you cannot be responsible for.
Set Up Utilities
You definitely need electricity and heat in your new apartment. Most places don’t cover these costs, so you will have to contact a utility provider in the area. Don’t forget to set up wifi so you can comfortably kick back and watch Netflix at the end of your move-in day.
Buy Food
Often times people move in and procrastinate buying food for several days, eating at local restaurants instead. Of course, it’s good to familiarize yourself with the area, but eating out can get expensive.
Build Your Bedroom
In order to feel at home anywhere, you need a cozy place to sleep. Your room is your sanctuary, and setting it up just the way you like is a crucial step in the moving process.
Decorate
Here is where your creativity gets to shine. If this is your first apartment, you should get cheap, neutral furniture and decor. Check the local thrift store for excellent deals. If you already have the decorations you plan to use, rearrange them in a familiar, but fresh way.
Also, consider adding a new piece of decor from your new city. This can help you ease into your surroundings.
Have a Party
There is probably no better way to break in a new apartment than having a housewarming party. Invite all of your friends and get the ingredients for cocktails. Typically, two or three glasses will suffice for a cocktail party, but it depends on what type of friends you have.
A new apartment means new experiences and challenges. When you go to tackle these challenges head-on, it helps to feel comfortable in your surroundings. If you don’t you might feel uneasy about where you live. If, however, you make an effort to create a homey atmosphere at your new place, you will feel poised and ready to take on anything.