Tips for Your First Time Renting an Apartment
Moving into your own apartment for the first time is an exciting and thrilling new chapter in your life. However, for many, there is an adjustment period transitioning to a new lifestyle. We present you with some tips for your first time renting an apartment!
Create a Budget
Listing all of your expenses and creating a budgeting plan can help provide financial peace in your daily life. You will know what your primary responsibilities are, as well as how much money you will have to spend and save after these obligations are met. By knowing how much you will need to spend in each of these categories, you can better manage your finances and plan around your budget.
When you are creating your own budget, consider expenses such as:
- Rent
- Utilities
- Groceries and other living essentials
- Gas and/or transportation costs
- Car payments and insurance costs
- Credit card payments
- Internet
- etc.
Most apartments require rent paid on the first or last day of the month. If you are able to, you may want to pay a few days ahead of the due date so that you do not have to worry about potentially forgetting and missing a payment. This can help you remain in excellent financial standing with the apartment’s property managers and prevent any complications in the future.
Lastly, pay attention to how you are using the utilities in your apartment. Leaving the air conditioning running at high levels or leaving lights on when you are not home can quickly add up. Turn your lights off after you leave a room and run your heat or AC at low levels when you are not home.
Don’t Rush to Unpack Everything All at Once
On the day you move into your new apartment, you may feel tempted to unpack everything right away. While it may be satisfying to get everything out of boxes and into your new home, try not to overwhelm yourself by putting everything away all at once.
You can start small by unpacking the items you use most first or focusing on one room at a time. This way, you can take your time settling into your new space and place your belongings in their respectful place as you need them.
If you are planning to purchase new furniture for your first apartment, you may want to wait until after move-in day to arrange it. For example, you can schedule your delivery date for the day after you move in so that you can arrange everything else and visualize how your new furniture will look in your living space before it arrives.
Get to Know Your Neighbors
One of the best ways to feel comfortable and secure in your first apartment is by getting to know your neighbors. You can introduce yourself when you first move in or by attending a community event. If you have any questions or concerns, they may be able to help or provide advice.
In addition, getting to know your neighbors can also help create a sense of community in your living space. You may even make some new friends that live just a short walk away!
Be Mindful of Noise Levels
If you are living in an apartment complex or in close quarters with your neighbors, it is important to pay attention to noise levels. Consider the time of day and how loud your music, television, or other noises may be.
You can help reduce noise levels by:
- Investing in sound-dampening materials such as rugs, curtains, or furniture covers
- Using headphones or earbuds instead of speakers
- Closing doors when playing music or watching television
- Staying up to date on your apartment community’s quiet hours
Keep Essential Safety Items in Your Apartment
In case of an emergency, it is important to keep essential safety items in your apartment. These items can help you remain safe and secure in the event of a power outage, weather emergency, or fire.
Some essential safety items to keep in your first apartment include:
- A flashlight and extra batteries
- Non-perishable food and water
- A first-aid kit
- A fire extinguisher
- Blankets and warm clothing
- An emergency contact list
Enjoy an Excellent First Renting Experience in New York’s Capital Region
At Rosetti Properties, we manage and operate a diverse selection of premium apartments throughout the New York Capital Region. We strive to provide a comfortable, consistent renting experience for people living in each of our communities.
To learn more about any or all of the communities that we manage, contact us today to speak with someone from our team.