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Guide for First Time Movers

Published by Chris Townsend

Guide for First Time Movers

Moving out of your parents' house may be nerve-wracking, exciting, and heartbreaking all at the same time. You're about to embark on one of the most significant changes of your life, and you might be unsure where to begin. From finances and planning to packing and furnishings, there’s a lot to consider. The cost to move from your parent's home could be tricky. The goal of this moving checklist is to provide you with a solid foundation for the big day so you can feel prepared and excited.

Tips for First Time Movers

Highlighted below are the main tips to follow to help alleviate the stress and mystery surrounding the first time you move out on your own.

Ensure Your Finances Are in Order

You probably had some form of financial safety net while you were living at home. However, you'll need a better knowledge of what a budget is and how it works now that you're living on your own. Moreover, while it isn't the most enjoyable part of moving out of your parents' house, it is necessary. To achieve this, you can:

  • Calculate your average monthly expenses by tracking your monthly income. Begin by making a list of non-negotiable payments, such as your car, groceries, and phone bill. Then figure out how much money you'll need and how much rent you can afford and wish to pay.
  • Plan your moving budget, which should include the cost of hiring a moving company or renting a moving truck. Get a price so you know what to expect, and weigh the benefits and drawbacks of moving yourself versus hiring movers.
  • Calculate how much extra money you'll have to spend on things you'll need for your first apartment. Save some money in the months leading up to your relocation because you'll almost certainly need to pay a deposit as well as your first month's rent.

Have a Steady Job

You undoubtedly feel like you have a lot to learn now that you're an adult, and no place will teach you faster than the workplace. The majority of young adults who first venture out into the world begin their ascent to the top with an entry-level position. In most industries, such jobs aren't known to pay well, but don't let that deter you. Instead, see this work as an opportunity to show off and develop your skills and ambitions, as well as to make good career decisions.

Keep in mind that if your entry-level work doesn't cover your rent, it might not be the best time to move out on your own until you've established some financial security.

Find a Suitable Place

Apartment hunting is a serious undertaking. You want to make sure you choose the best option available because this is where you'll be living for the foreseeable future. You shouldn't just pick the first option that comes to mind because it's the simplest. It's possible that there's something better out there. Hence, before making a decision, think about all of your possibilities.

The proximity of each apartment to the things you need nearby should be one of the factors you consider while making your pick. If public transportation is required, for example, you will require a location that is easily accessible.

The proximity of an apartment to the activities you enjoy is just as crucial. While the park, gym, or library may not be the first things that come to mind when you think of your new apartment, they may help it seem even more like home.

Hire a Professional and Reputable Moving Company

A professional moving company will take the hassle and backache out of moving, which is one of the tips for moving out that many people overlook. Since you probably have enough to worry about regarding the small details of your move, allow a professional moving company to handle the work and make your first moving experience a positive one. Getting a quote from Three Movers will also help you factor this cost into your moving budget well ahead of time, allowing you to stay on top of your finances and ensure you get a good deal on moving coverage to protect your belongings.

Practice Good Habits

Start adjusting your habits today to make the transition simpler down the future if you've been enjoying a carefree life where you don't have to do many tasks or keep track of your finances. This is a crucial aspect of moving out successfully that is often overlooked. Clean up after yourself, keep track of your money (this will also help you budget more properly), and get yourself to destinations rather than relying on family members for rides. Moving out can be stressful, but it doesn't have to change all at once; if you make some tiny changes before you move out, it won't be as much of a shock.

Create a Schedule of Tasks

It can be tempting to let things go a little loose in those initial few months of living on your own. A never-folded load of laundry, a sink overflowing with dirty dishes, a filthy bathroom... you get the idea. The truth is, you'll wish you hadn't let things get so terrible after a while, believe us. To solve this, you should:

  • Create (and stick to) a task schedule as soon as you move to your new place. Break down the important tasks that must be completed weekly and write them down somewhere visible; using chalk or a whiteboard, you can mark them off as they are completed and keep track.
  • Get your housemate on board so that you can both contribute to making your house neat. This will assist to clear up any confusion about who was responsible for taking out the garbage this week.
  • You'll have to clean your place regularly. This is just one of those things you should be aware of before you decide to move out of your parent's house. Your parents probably clean up more than you think, and they won't be there to wash your dishes or tidy up your messy room.

You Can Ask Your Parents for Help

Your parents are likely to have done this before, at least a few times, and will be able to guide you through the process. Request that they assist you in calculating anticipated moving costs, including items such as a plunger, a shower curtain, and a fresh coat of paint in your new kitchen that you may not have considered. They might also have some suggestions for what you should do before leaving their house.

Let's face it, they're going to miss having you around, so giving them the chance to assist you with your first move will make them happy.

Get Rid of Unwanted Stuff

Putting your items in boxes and stacking them to move can serve as a wake-up call – "I have too many belongings!" Fortunately, the days leading up to relocation are ideal for decluttering because you'll be sifting it all anyway. The less you have to transfer to your new house, the less expensive and easier it will be to relocate. Donate, recycle, give away, or sell stuff (and possibly some cash for your next relocation!)

Things to Buy Before Moving for the First Time

Here's a list of all the essentials to get you through your few days in your new apartment.

  • Bed: Pillow, mattress, bedsheets, and duvet are all essentials, even if you want to check out the room first before knowing the size of bed to buy.
  • Curtains: You'll want a comfortable night's sleep after a long day of traveling, not to be awakened up early in the morning when the sun rises. They're also wonderful for privacy and keeping the heat in.
  • Toolbox: Hammers, screwdrivers, and nails are all helpful tools for constructing furniture, repairing repairs, and even opening boxes.
  • Step stool: You'll be amazed how often you'll use this – it'll come in handy not only for unpacking into high cupboards or shelves but also for changing the smoke alarm batteries once you've moved in.
  • Shower curtain: Pack your shower curtain with your toiletries and towel. You'll want a hot shower after a long day, and mopping the bathroom floor will be the last thing on your mind.
  • Toilet paper: Make sure you have enough toilet paper on hand.
  • First-aid supplies: A pack of plasters, antiseptic cream, and painkillers wouldn't go amiss, whether it's a cut from opening a particularly stubborn box or backache from all the hauling around.
  • Cleaning materials: Perhaps the previous occupant left a mark, or all the unloading has left muddy footprints all over the place. Whatever the situation, having some basic cleaning products on hand is usually a good idea.
  • Electrical systems: Make sure you have all of the necessary batteries and extension cords, as well as chargers.

Wrap Up

Moving out of your parents' house is a major step, especially if it's your first time living independently. However, if you plan ahead of time and complete all of the items on our checklists, you'll feel right at home and ready to enjoy your newfound independence in no time.

first time movers

Chris Townsend is a moving professional and relocation expert that has more than 10 years of experience in the moving industry. With a background that includes working in virtually every aspect of the company, he has distinguished himself as an integral part of our operations with expertise in all things related to moving. Chris has a keen eye for detail and brings intelligence and passion to every project he’s involved with.

While getting his degree in communications from Santa Clara University, Chris started out with the company working in the field as part of our team of professional moving associates. Following graduation, he was promoted to our main office, where he has thrived in a role that involves increasing responsibility and requires him to wear many different hats. Some days, you may find him answering the phone and providing moving estimates, others he may be writing for our moving blog, and another day he may be coordinating a large corporate moving job or helping us with our marketing efforts. Chris has authored many of our in-depth moving guides, as well as provided our clients with information and advice to handle the complexities of their upcoming moving plans. Simply put, there’s nothing he can’t do and we wouldn’t be where we are today without him.

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