I recently moved into my first apartment (YAY!!!) and boy has this been an eye opener. The whole process of just finding a place that fits your needs and wants is a whirlwind but the actual moving in process is nothing short of exhausting. (Stairs… you have become a mortal enemy.)
Here is my list of the top 5 things you need to know when moving into an apartment. (for the first time)
- HELP, ALWAYS accept help, friends, family, that random person who asked if you would like carrying some boxes.. Honestly you never realize how much energy it takes to move your life from one location to another so put away the pride and don’t be afraid to ask for help. (Be sure to properly thank and do your best to compensate the help though, I have noticed that drinks or dinner/lunch seem to work best.)
- Measure twice, cut once. My grandfather always told my dad measure twice cut once and I never truly understood the value of this saying until I had to buy furniture and fit it into the tiny space I now call home. Don’t get me wrong it’s a blast playing Tetris with your living room but measure once.. mark it down and then measure again… and then after that make sure you bring your measuring tape with you EVERYWHERE you go.. it will really save you a lot of headaches down the line.
- Invest in a tool kit. When I graduated high school one of the most memorable and used gift I received was a pink tool kit. It came complete with a hammer, all sorts of wrenches, screwdrivers (with tons of different adapters), a measuring tape (see item 2), and a “stylish” pink matching carrying bag. My 18 year old self couldn’t imagine the amounts of times that this bag would become my best friend. There are countless uses for a tool kit in every day life but it is a real life saver when it comes to moving. Furniture, doors, appliances that require some assembly… you name it! I cannot stress how wonderful it is to have a tool kit with you when you’re trying to tighten and tweak things for your new home.
- Toilet paper, paper towels, a plunger, and trash bags. You should not enter the doors of your new places without these items.. Just trust me.
- TIME It’s not a race. Take your time and really get into the idea that this is real life and not one of those reality shows where the person moves into a dump and after the commercial break the place is completely put together. You will have tons of boxes. You will have moments of wondering if you are a a delusional hoarder. You will get there and one day suddenly realize that you’ve done it! You’ve finally unpacked your last box. Even if it takes a year before that happens!
What are your tips for people moving into a new place? I’d love to hear some helpful comments or experiences of your moves.
Cotton and Creme 