Congratulations! Your days of communal bathrooms, mini-fridges and twin sized beds are over. Moving from the dorms to an apartment requires a little extra planning. Before embarking on your college move, keep some of these things in mind:
New Expenses
Keeping track of bills is important. When living in the dorms, students often pay everything as a bundle at one time. When moving into an apartment, arrangements will need to be made to ensure you get internet service and electricity. A couple weeks before moving into your apartment call and research cable and electricity companies to ensure every thing is up and running when you move in. Setting reminders to pay monthly bills will keep you on track.
Extra Space
Moving from dorms to an apartment almost always guarantees you’re getting more space. Say goodbye to the days of cramped dorm rooms and share kitchens. Having an apartment means you may have your own kitchen, living area and bathroom. Plan to fill this extra space with new furniture and appliances. And if you’re not ready to part with that precious mini fridge or old bean bag chair from your dorm room, consider putting them in storage.
More Space = More Cleaning
After trying out some new recipes in your new kitchen, you will quickly learn that the extra space means more cleaning. The upkeep of an apartment will be more than you’re use to at the dorms. Pick up cleaning tools and supplies before moving in. Vacuuming the carpet and wiping down the kitchen will become a routine thing. Also factor the price of these cleaning products in your budget.
New Neighbors
When living in the dorms, you are surrounded by people 24/7. This may or may not be the case at your new apartment complex. The important thing is to be mindful of your neighbors. You are no longer living on a college campus that never sleeps; you live alongside working class people who generally sleep at a regular time. Be cognizant of those around and keep the noise at a reasonable level.
Renters Insurance
Living in a college dorm gives you a certain degree of security. When moving into an apartment, remember to get renters insurance in case of accidents. This will make sure you are compensated if your place is broken into or you accidentally set something on fire in that new kitchen of yours.
Amenities
Apartments offer amenities you may not be use to. Take advantage of this! Whether your apartment offers a 24 hour gym or free printing in the office, do your research and make sure you’re utilizing all that there is. Plus, who doesn’t love having a pool in walking distance?
Check out some of these tips and tricks for apartment living.
What were your experiences moving from the dorms to an apartment? Let us know in the comment section below.
