Your Ultimate Move-In Checklist for Your First Apartment After College

Congratulations! You’ve just finished college and earned your diploma. As a recent graduate, you’re likely ready to take that next step into adulthood. Signing the lease for your very first apartment marks the start of a new chapter in your life —one full of fresh experiences and responsibilities.

When it comes time to leave your parents’ home and move into your first place, there are several preparations you’ll need to make to ensure the transition is a successful one. Before you start planning your housewarming party, make sure you’re prepared for the move with our official post-grad move-in checklist. Join us as we walk you through everything you need to do before moving:

• Make a financial plan
• Read your lease with a parent or guardian
• Know what it means to be a “tenant”
• Acquire insurance
• Get a parking spot
• Don’t forget to schedule your move
• Purchase furniture, appliances and other household needs
• Explore our tips for a successful move-in day

 

 

The “Pre-Move” To Do’s

Financial Planning is Your Friend

Though many college students live off campus, there are many who choose to live in campus housing and are therefore likely not responsible for things like rent or security deposits. In this case, your first apartment after graduating may also be your first major financial responsibility. Learning how to manage money can be challenging for young adults, especially when you suddenly have big bills to pay.

To ease the transition to financial independence, set up a monthly budget. Whether you do this using a spreadsheet or mobile application, add up your recurring monthly financial obligations and subtract from your monthly income. What is leftover is your “livable budget.” Decide what percentage you want to put into savings and how much you need to support your lifestyle. Always leave some cushion for unexpected costs

It’s important to note that you’ll likely be responsible for more than just the first month’s rent prior to moving in. Be prepared to set aside money for a deposit and maybe even the last month’s rent. 

 

Get to Know Your Lease Agreement

Carefully read your lease, and then read it again. While it may seem tedious, thoroughly reviewing your lease (especially with a parent or guardian) helps you understand your responsibilities. Don’t let the excitement of your first apartment distract you from important details!

Understand the Difference Between Being a Tenant and Student

Transitioning from student life to being a tenant brings new responsibilities. Living in an apartment is quite different from on-campus housing.

For instance, while some apartment communities include utilities like electricity, water, internet, and cable in the rent, many require you to arrange these services yourself. And while it may no longer be against the rules to host parties, there will be a list of regulations and community guidelines you’ll be expected to follow. That’s why it's important to understand those rules before you throw your housewarming party to avoid unnecessary issues with your neighbors and visitors. 

 

Get Renter’s Insurance

Since this is your first adult apartment, you likely won’t already have renter’s insurance. Be sure to confirm whether insurance is required in your community. Nowadays, many leasing agencies mandate proof of purchase before you can move in. Be sure to ask your leasing office and acquire insurance (if necessary) and documentation prior to your move-in date. 

Parking

One commonly overlooked thing for grads is parking! If you don't have a car on campus, then you’re probably used to not thinking about a parking spot. Many apartment buildings will require you to pay a monthly fee to secure a space on site. Be sure to ask your property manager or leasing office to avoid any last minute surprises on move-in day.

 

Schedule Your Move

Just like many restaurants, most communities will actually require you to reserve a move-in date and time, in advance. This helps the property managers ensure the move-in experience is smooth for everyone. The leasing office can also help arrange a parking area for your delivery truck and make sure your move-in time doesn’t conflict with other residents.

Now for the Fun Part: Shopping!

Don’t worry – preparing to move out of your parent or guardian’s home isn’t all business. Shopping for your interior essentials is where the fun begins. Here are the purchases you should make in advance to make the move-in day a little less stressful: 

Furniture

Unless you’re moving into a furnished residence, it’s likely you’ll need to furnish your apartment. If you don’t already have everything you need, be sure to go furniture shopping prior to the move. Whether you ship it directly to your apartment building, pre-assembled, or have movers assemble for you, make sure the delivery aligns with your move-in date so you’re not living without basic necessities. 

Appliances

In addition to furniture, you’ll also need a variety of appliances and household items. Everything from basic kitchenware (like utensils, pots and pans, glassware, etc.) to cleaning supplies and bath essentials should be purchased and packed prior to move-in. While you could purchase these items afterwards, we recommend setting yourself up for a successful transition by having items you’ll need in your day-to-day activities beforehand. 

 

Move-in Day Tips

The day is finally here! Moving into your first apartment can feel overwhelming, but these tips can help ease the stress:

 

• Introduce yourself to neighbors. Leaving home can be equally exciting as it is sad. Even if you have roommates, moving         to a new city or space can feel uncomfortable at first. To help make your new place feel like home, introduce yourself to your             neighbors. Making friends in your building (or even just knowing a few friendly faces) can really make the transition a lot                     smoother.
  
  
• Phone a friend. Even if you’ve hired movers or have family members volunteering to help, reach out to friends in the area to         help you move in. The more helping hands you have, the faster the process goes. Plus, it’s fun to have friends there to help you.
  
  
• When the work is done, hit the town to celebrate. Now that you’re all settled into your new space, go out and get to         know the area. Meet up with friends for dinner or go exploring. While you may just want to relax in your new apartment, getting       out of the house after a long day of unpacking may be in order. 

 

 

Grads, Find Your First Home With Greystar!

Now that you’re ready to take on the world, finding an apartment to kick-off adulthood is the first step. Find your perfect apartment with Greystar. 


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