Moving into a new apartment can be a challenging and exciting process. However, it would be best to always prepare for the big move with all the furniture, appliances and things you need for an apartment. Having a place of your own means the freedom to choose decorations, aesthetic furniture and fun appliances all for your benefit. It’s essential to make a plan before buying certain items.
A checklist of things you need when moving into your first apartment can help you stay on track and within your budget. Stick to your essentials and immediate needs before deciding what items can be bought later once you’ve settled in. Our first apartment checklist can help you know where to start.
When moving to a new apartment, you’ll want to make a detailed list of everything to pack before the big move. Some essential items to pack include — kitchenware, food, cleaning supplies, bedroom and bathroom essentials, living room decor, furniture, first aid necessities, tools, safety items and more. Here is a comprehensive checklist for moving into your first apartment.
Finding the right kitchenware items can set you up for your first apartment. Besides silverware, cups and plates, you’ll want to invest in some measuring spoons, a high-quality coffee maker or a wooden cutting board. You can also find pots and pans in fun colors or patterns to fit your kitchen aesthetic. Here is a list of essential kitchen items to bring to your first apartment:
While many of these items are essential, you’ll want to save some things for a later date. Once you’ve settled into your apartment, you can invest in appliances and kitchenware such as a toaster oven, microwave, hand mixer, blender, food processor, cake pans, serving dishes, water filter and paper towel holder.
While you might not want to pack any food before your move, you can make a detailed list of pantry, fridge and freezer items to buy as soon as you move. You can also consider what spices, condiments or baking items to buy later. Here are some pantry and fridge items to keep in mind:
Items like spices, condiments and baking supplies can be bought later if you want to bake bread and cookies or add spice to your dishes. Here are a few basic ingredients to add to your list:
Ensuring your first apartment is cleaned before moving in ensures your furniture, decor and personal items are well taken care of during your stay. Here are some cleaning supplies to have on hand before and after you move to your new apartment:
Finding the right items for your bedroom allows you to rest comfortably after a long week of work or activities. Besides a mattress and bed frame, you’ll want some decorations, pillows and other items to make your bedroom a comfortable and relaxing space. Here are a few essentials you’ll want before moving:
Finding the right items for your bathroom ensures a clean space to shower, bathe and prepare for the day. Start by investing in some high-quality bath and hand towels and washcloths. You can also find the following items before your move:
Here are some items you can buy later:
The living room or family room is a space where you can hang out with partners and family members, watch movies with friends or relax after a long day at work. Invest in a quality couch and coffee table to ensure you have the most comfortable living space, invest in a quality couch and coffee table. You can also buy other fun items like:
Here are a few items you can buy after you’ve settled into the space:
Most first aid and wellness items can be bought after your big move. However, having a detailed list beforehand is essential to ensure you buy every item you might need. Here are a few things to keep in mind:
Finding helpful moving tools and items will ensure you can hang pictures and artwork once you move into the space. Consider these essential moving tools for your first apartment:
Most apartments should already contain smoke detectors, though if the building is old, you might want to check them and replace old detectors. Consider adding extra smoke detectors as well. Always have a carbon monoxide detector and fire distinguisher in the apartment in emergencies. These items will keep you safe should you experience a sudden oven fire or carbon monoxide leakage.
Before moving into your first apartment, you’ll want to double-check you have all the items you need. Here are a few miscellaneous items you might not have considered:
Shopping for new apartment items, furniture and decor can be challenging and time-consuming. However, searching through popular stores and sites allows you to find the best items to fit your budget and personal aesthetic. Here are fourteen popular places to find your first apartment essentials.
When moving to a new place, you’ll want to do your research, form a budget and tour all potential apartments, among other things. Here are a few additional tips to consider when moving:
Always research your potential apartments before going to tour places in person. Some helpful online sites for apartment searching include — Zillow, Trulia, Apartments.com, Rent.com and Apartment Guide. Whether looking for a single studio apartment or a new place with multiple bedrooms and bathrooms, you can find what you need online. Many sites also allow you to search for specific apartments using filters. Find specific prices, bedroom numbers or other amenities like a washing machine or HVAC system.
Have a reliable budget where you list potential short-term and long-term expenses. For example, you should know how much rent you can pay monthly and structure your budget. An example moving budget might include the following items — rent, electricity and utilities, cable or internet fees, security deposit, pet fees, parking spaces, renters insurance and moving costs.
A wish list may include any items or apartment aspects you want. For example, you might want several bedrooms or a specific apartment size that fits your needs. Consider what items on your wishlist are non-negotiable, such as the apartment location, public transportation availability, pet rules, parking, security, extra amenities or kitchen appliances.
Always tour your potential apartments in person, as online pictures can often be outdated or misleading. It is essential to see an apartment before signing any paperwork or contracts. You can also check out the neighborhood while touring in person to see what living in the area would be like. If you value socialization, consider a friendly community or building. If you prefer solitude, you’ll want a space without tenant noises or much interaction with others.
When touring in person, always check every aspect of the space, including locks, possible floor slants or warps, ceiling spots, faucets, light switches and bulbs, outlets, appliances, apartment phone service, pest control, outside sounds, stairs, parking, amenities and monthly fees.
Always review the rental lease in detail before signing a contract or document. It might be full of legal jargon, but it often contains the necessary information you should know before renting. Look through the lease for information about payments, pets, maintenance obligations, terms for breaking a lease and other helpful knowledge.
Renters insurance can protect you from the possible expenses of a rented apartment. Some landlords may even require you to purchase renters insurance as part of the leasing agreement, while others may not need it. Check with your landlord and explore various renters insurance options before buying a plan. Renters insurance helps cover the cost of unexpected events like fire, theft, natural disasters and water damage from storms or burst pipes. Most plans are very affordable, meaning you can easily add the monthly cost to your budget.
David Pope Insurance is a family-owned insurance agency with over 20 years of experience. We assist clients in Missouri with rental insurance to fit their specific needs. If you plan to move into your first apartment, consider investing in reliable rental insurance to keep you and your items safe. Contact David Pope Insurance today to learn more about renters insurance options, or request a quote online.