Are you considering moving out? Whether you have been living with family and looking to gain some independence or are just ready for a change, moving out can be an exciting time. But it's also a big decision and one that comes with a lot of responsibility. Before you leap, there are a few things you need to know before you take the plunge. Here are some questions to ask, what to expect, and more!
In this blog post, we’ll discuss some of the most important questions. Like, how much should you save before moving out and what are some of the best practices for moving day? We’ll also discuss what to ask a realtor when looking for a new home and questions to ask during a home inspection.
The whole process is a big undertaking, but with a little preparation, it can be smooth sailing. So let’s jump in and get started!
How much should you save before moving out?
Ah, now, this is an important question! Moving out can be expensive, so it’s best to start saving up as soon as possible. The amount you’ll need to save will vary depending on whether you are buying a house or renting a place. But a good rule of thumb is to have at least ideally 5-10% if you intend to buy a home and three months’ rent if you plan on renting.
Of course, there are always ways to cut costs – like sharing a place with friends or family. But no matter what, make sure you save up as much as possible so that you’re not starting your new chapter off in debt.
A helpful tip is to start dedicated savings account for your move. This way, you can track your progress and have the money available when you need it. Don’t just stop there, have a portion of your pay automatically deposited into a savings account every two weeks, so it becomes a habit.
Did you know that a bad credit score may be a deal-breaker?
Good credit is essential for so many things in life – from buying a car to getting a mortgage. As it turns out, it can also be important when renting an apartment.
Now that we’ve covered how much to save let’s move on to moving day!
Do you know what to look out for when buying or renting a new place?
You decided to take to the streets and look for that perfect place to call home. After a few days of searching, you finally find it – an apartment/ house that’s close to everything you need that’s affordable.
Not so fast there, Timmy. Is this too good to be true? Just because an apartment/ house looks great on the outside doesn’t mean it’s in good condition on the inside.
So before you sign on the dotted line, make sure you do a walk-through of the apartment/house. Check for things like water damage, cracks in the walls, mold, and any other signs that the place may not be as well-kept, and take pictures! This will help you negotiate a lower price or possibly get the landlord to fix any damages.
The only way to make sense out of change is to plunge into it, move with it, and join the dance.
Alan Watts
Is it worth moving out?
This is a question that a lot of people ask themselves. And the answer is, it depends. If you’re looking for more independence or just ready to live on your own, then moving out may be the right choice for you. But if you’re not sure if you’re ready or can’t afford it, then it might be best to wait a bit longer.
For some of us, there may be more pros than cons(or vis-versa)to both living at home and moving out. It’s important to weigh your options and make the best decision for you. The real question is, are you ready to be on your own, and are you ready to take on the responsibilities that come with it?
If you’re renting, there are some things you need to keep in mind.
When you rent an apartment, there are a few things you need to keep in mind. For example, most places require the first and last month’s rent as well as a security deposit before you move in. This can add up to a lot of money, so make sure you have it saved up before you start looking for places.
Another thing to keep in mind is that you will be responsible for paying for utilities like electricity, gas, water, and trash. This can also add up, so be sure to factor that into your budget when considering how much you can afford to spend on rent.
And lastly, if you decide to move out before your lease is up, you may have to pay the penalty. So be sure to read the fine print before signing anything!
How to prepare when moving out(checklist)?
No, I am not referring to your wedding day(covered in this article). I am talking about the day you move all your stuff into a place to create new memories. For most people, this is an exciting but very hectic day. To make sure everything goes as smoothly as possible, it’s best to plan ahead and be organized.
Here are some tips to help you out:
Make a list of everything you need to do and when they need to be done. This will keep you organized and on track.
Suppose you are open to this option delegate tasks to your friends and family. This will help lighten the load and make the day go by faster. Remember to be a good host and pay for their help with dinner or drinks!
Hire a professional moving company. This is definitely worth the money if you have a lot of stuff or live in a multi-story home. Another good reason is avoiding any unwanted broken items.
Label your boxes clearly and pack them strategically. This will make unpacking a breeze, and you’ll know where everything is when you need it.
Make sure to pack an essentials box with all the things you’ll need on your first day and night in your new place – like toilet paper,
Book a moving truck in advance, and be sure to reserve
My word, information overload, right? But don’t worry, we’re not done yet. Next, let’s discuss what to do when you’re in the market for a new home.
Why do I have to get a home inspection?
Why is it a smart move to get a home inspection? You may be wondering, “how does a home inspection affect my family and me”? Glad you asked.
A home inspection is a significant step in the home-buying process for many reasons. It’s a way of protecting yourself from any nasty surprises that may be lurking in your new house – like hidden damage, faulty wiring, or pests.
It’s also an excellent way to learn about the home and its systems. The inspector will go over everything in detail with you so that you’re fully aware of what’s going on.
Lastly, it can help speed up the buying process by showing the sellers that you mean business and are serious about buying their home.
Here are some questions you should ask your inspector:
What is the average price of home inspections in the area I’m interested in?
What’s included in your assessment?
Are you licensed and insured?
What type of inspection do you offer (i.e., structural, roofing, pest)?
What is the average turnaround time for your inspection report?
Who covers the cost of the inspection?
What is the Condition of the Roof, plumbing, and electrical?
In short, getting a home inspection is a smart move and something you should do before buying a property.
Investing some additional time will help you avoid any costly surprises down the road and give you peace of mind knowing that your new home is in good condition.
What should I do upon moving in?
Welcome to your new place! Now that you’re all moved in, it’s time to start making it your own. Sometimes that can be easier said than done, but don’t worry, take your time, and we’re here to help.
Let’s start with placing all the big bulky furniture where you originally envisioned it. This is usually the fun part. Still, it can also be a little daunting if you’re not sure what goes where yet.
After that, start decorating or painting your walls if the inner Picasso in you is itching to come out. This can be a great way to add personality to your new home and make it feel like yours.
If you’re not the “do-it-yourself” Martha Stuart type, there are plenty of stores out there that can help you with this process. I have found Etsy an excellent resource for unique and one-of-a-kind pieces that you can’t find in your average store.
That’s just the beginning, though. Once you have the big stuff out of the way, it’s time to start filling your new home with all the little things that make it feel like yours.
This can be anything your one-of-a-kind snow globe collection, that painting you always wanted to hang up but never had a place for, or that impulse buy you made on Etsy of Mjölnir(Thors’s Hammer) because it was just too good to pass up.
You know, all the little things that make your house a home.
Remember to stock up on some of your favorite snacks and drinks, too, because you’re going to want to get cozy on the couch in your new pj’s, put on a movie, and relax in your new home. Take it all in. This is your new beginning.
Now that you’ve moved in and made it your own, it’s time to start enjoying all the benefits of living in your place. Here are a few things that you can start looking forward to:
No more roommates! (Unless you want them, of course)
Being able to have friends over anytime you want( this also means cleaning up)
Not having to share a bathroom!
Cooking whatever you want, whenever you want
Have your own space to do whatever you want with it!
Take advantage of all these benefits and more, and enjoy your new home to the fullest. Thanks for reading!
Sum up
Now that you know more about what to expect towards moving out and the home buying process, it’s time to get started. By asking the right questions and doing your research, you’re ready to take on the world (or at least your new neighborhood). Congratulations! You made it this far!
We’re going to change the world! I know it may sound lofty, but this effort toward empowerment, education, and inspiration is something that needs your help. It might even give you a little inspiration on what we can achieve when working together as one team towards our goals.
So please share our article with friends/family members who could benefit from reading it. The first step usually isn’t easy; however, thanks for being part of my journey, and keep in mind that the best is yet to come.
Let others know what strategies or advice you found helpful. Share your advice in the comment section below. This has been “7 Simple Things You Need to Know Before Moving Out” I hope it was helpful.
