MOVING IN FAQs: Here are a few tips for before and after your move

WHAT TO DO WHEN MOVING – BEFORE AND AFTER

There are many things to think about before and after moving into an apartment home. I have created a list of highlights to keep in mind so your big day isn’t so overwhelming.
BEFORE MOVE-IN

• Call or visit your current leasing office to figure out how much is due so your account balance is at zero upon move out. Don’t forget to ask if there are any requirements needed before you move-out, like cleaning.
• Schedule and be present for your move-out inspection at your current apartment community. Get a copy of the move-out inspection sheet after you and the appropriate staff member signs it.
• Get in writing how much money is due before you move-in. This would include your rent, security deposit and any other additional fees at your new apartment community.
• Call, pay and schedule the connection of power, gas, cable, internet and home phone line.
• Get renters insurance from your car insurance company or another company. Additionally, make sure they fax over a copy of your policy to the leasing office.
• Get quotes from prospective moving companies.
• Change your address with the United States Postal Service. You can do this in person or online, and it is best to do it at least 10 days before you move-in.
• Make sure you don’t have to work on the day of your move. If there are family members or friends helping you, follow up with them and make sure that their plans have not changed.
• Tell the leasing office what time they should expect you to pick up your keys and complete any paperwork before move-in.
• If you can, complete all paperwork before you move-in and pay what you can. It will save you time on the day of move-in. Who wants to think about money and paperwork on moving day anyways?
• Be present for the move-in inspection at your new apartment community and get a copy for your records after the appropriate staff member signs it.
• Get receipts or signed copies of all payments made from the point of payment of application, rent, security deposit payment, etc.
• Read your lease agreement carefully and ask questions before signing!

AFTER MOVE-IN

• Obtain a copy of your lease after the appropriate authority, most likely the Community Manager, signs it. Don’t just request a copy of the actual lease itself, but all of the addendum forms that accompanied it at the time of signing.
• Tape a paper with your name in your mailbox for the mail carrier in case his or her records hasn’t been updated yet.
• If there were any work orders/service requests made during your move-in inspection, call or visit the office the next day to ensure it was entered into their system and that nothing was overlooked.
• Now it is time to clean and unpack!
• Now that you have gotten all of those responsibilities out of the way, it is time to make the apartment home. For apartment living ideas, check out Apartment Therapy here. They have great tips large and small spaces.