Moving is no one’s favorite activity. It is full of strategizing, packing and heavy lifting, but the results of your move can be wonderful, especially if you manage to find a rental that fits all your needs and preferences. If you need to move soon and find a new rental to live in, here are a few things to keep in mind for an easy, smooth and hassle-free process:
Gather documentation
If this is not your first move, you know that the rental application process is not the easiest thing in the world, especially if there are other renters to compete with. To relieve some of the stress, you can gather all the necessary documents and have them ready to show to your landlord. When you have everything ready, from your reference letter to bank statements, credit checks, pay stubs and a short bio, you can allow your landlord to make an easy decision to pick you.
Establish your budget
The rental market is quite expensive today, especially with functional countertops and the comfort of living room, so it’s necessary to set a budget that will allow you to make a good decision you’ll be able to support in the future. To establish your budget, write down all your incomes, subtract bills and expenses and see what you have to work with. When you have a budget you can set aside for rent, you’ll be able to narrow down your search, and choose the right rental concerning the size and location. According to research, it’s best not to spend more than 25% of your income on rent.
Consider the location
When moving, your new location is one of the most important things to consider. Some places like New York or LA are very complicated to work with because all locations are expensive. However, if you’re moving to up-and-coming states like Texas, you can quickly find great options. Let’s say you’re looking for Abilene apartments for rent, it’s easy to find a location that will be close to all the necessary amenities like schools, employment, public transport, etc. No matter if you’re a downtown type of person or prefer more peaceful and remote neighborhoods, these less popular locations will offer everything you might need for very affordable prices.
Think about the length of the lease
Many renters are scared of the commitment to one place for too long, so they chose shorter lease periods. This is a good choice for some, but it’s important to keep in mind that shorter leases come with higher rent. On the other hand, longer leases come with better deals, but also with free rent and no moving hassle of your exclusive posters on walls for the foreseeable future. In places that are experiencing a steady increase in rental rates (as is the case with many locations in Texas), you can enjoy better housing security with a longer lease, so consider your options carefully.
Declutter your home
Once you have managed to find the right rental, it’s time to start preparing for your move. To make the entire thing easier, start by decluttering your home. Study every item you have carefully, consider whether you can find a place for it in your new home, and if not, get it ready for sale, donation or garbage. By decluttering your home, you’ll have much fewer things to pack, move, unpack and store once you move.
Start packing early
You might think you only need a day or two to pack, but that process usually lasts longer than expected. Therefore, make sure to start packing early, starting with stuff you’re not using right now. Use a room you use the least to store packed boxes and leave the rooms with the most traffic for last (usually bathrooms, kitchens and bedrooms).
Book reliable movers
Experienced movers can make your relocation so much easier[, especially if you’re planning a long distance move. They not only have the tools necessary for moving, but also plenty of experience in how to handle your boxes. Besides picking the right company, it’s also necessary to book them well in advance. Most people want to move on the weekends or during holidays when there’s no work or school, so consider the high demand. If you want to save money, why not move on a Tuesday?
Be patient
There’s no way you can find a new rental, pack everything and unpack things at your new location in a week. Take time to make informed decisions and come up with a proper moving plan. Armed with patience, you’ll avoid a lot of stress and many regrettable situations.
Finding a good rental and moving your entire life to a new location can be quite challenging, but if you stick to these tips, you’ll be surprised how smoothly everything can go.
