Here's a list compiled of ways in which you can make your moving -- that much easier!
1. The Online Apartment Hunt!
There are several options in this category. If you want to pay for a site and membership - then websites such as www.westsiderentals.com can make sense. But, in this day and age and economic hard times, free websites are building in legitimacy and options. The best example is www.craigslist.com The online sharing community has become the #1 place for owners and leasers to find their prospective renters and leasees.
Under the HOUSING category -- you can find what you're looking for. Houses, townhouses, apartments, condos. Whatever you're looking for -- chances are there's a few dozen options to look at.
However! Be aware because pictures can be deceiving! During a recent apartment hunt -- much time was spent scratching my head when thinking back to the pictures shown online and the real life images now before me.
Just remember: Owners are looking to sell. So, they want to lure you in with the perfect pictures and great "deals." But, think of it as a trip to McDonald's after watching one of their commercials. Their food looks amazing in HD, but guaranteed it won't look the same in real life.
2. GET OFF YOUR COMPUTER AND WALK AROUND!
This was the best and most rewarding option in my recent apartment hunt. The computer could only yield so many options and most ended up as disappointments.
The best way to find a place is to PICK A NEIGHBORHOOD you're comfortable in and want to move to. And walk around. That's it. It's that simple.
I spent 1 hour walking around and wrote down 38 numbers from different apartment buildings, condo complexes, and homes that were up for rent. I called those number later in the day and set up the appointments for the following days. And, in 2 quick days, I had found my place.
3. BE PICKY AND REMEMBER IT'S A RENTER'S MARKET!
Right now, owners need to fill their homes. They're in a weak position and desperate for someone to pay decent rent and keep their income flow -- flowing.
So -- YOU CAN NEGOTIATE!
Don't forget that. Think of it as a flea market and make your best offer. If you want Air Conditioning and the apartment you like doesn't have it -- tell them to install it and you'll sign on the dotted lines. And if they say no... Find someplace else!
Taking an hour and looking around should tell you that your options are plentiful. So -- be PICKY and GET WHAT YOU WANT. You don't need a Methothelioma Lawyer to negotiate either -- you can do this yourself.
4. ONCE YOU'VE FOUND YOUR NEW HOME -- Start Packing!
www.Uhaul.com has a list of their locations and prices. Depending on how much stuff you've got -- rent the van or truck that best suits your needs. You can get all your supplies there as well -- BOXES, BOX TAPE, BUBBLE WRAP, DOLLIES. Get what you need and get packing.
And start packing early -- think of it as an exam from High School. If you leave too much to do before your move out day you're likely to feel overwhelmed. But take it in doses and you'll be just fine.
5. FIND A FRIEND!
It's as simple as offering a round of beer and a few slices of pizza and you should have your moving crew.
6. ONCE YOU'VE MOVED IN...
Once you're unpacked and settled -- the next phase comes into play: Establishing a home.
You'll need to change your address with credit cards companies, banks, the DMV, the Gas Company, Electric Company, Cable Company, Unions, Magazines and Newspaper Subscription Services, and the list goes on and on.
Just take these one step at a time and don't feel overwhelmed.
Soon enough, your move will be completed and your new home life can begin!
No comments:
Post a Comment