So you're moving into your first place! This is a big step! The first time you go off and live on your own, it can be incredibly exciting. Then, within a few months, the weight of your new responsibility can feel like a pretty heavy burden. Even people who have rented before can get caught up in the process of finding a new place. When it’s your first time, there can be enough new information to make your head spin.
Here are the important things to think about during your move-in process that will, hopefully, make the whole thing much easier. And there's no one better to tell it to you than the one and only Rachel Green.
1. Signing the Lease.
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There's a lot of words on that paper. It can be totally overwhelming, but make sure you read the fine print! There is a lot of important information in there you need to know before signing.
2. First Month's Rent.
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It's hard to watch your hard-earned money go away so quickly. But you gotta keep the water and electricity running somehow!
3. Moving In.
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And hopefully your couch fits through the staircase.
4. Unpacking!
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Hopefully your unpacking goes better than this. And don't do it all by yourself; get some friends to help!
5. Decorating
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If you live with roommates, make sure everyone who wants to contribute to the decorating can contribute. Don't overdo it, but don't leave the space empty either!
6. Set the rules.
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Living with roommates isn't always easy. Make sure you arrange some rules so that there isn't any drama between roommates. You don't want to be the one doing the dishes every single time or buying all of the necessities yourself.
7. Paying Rent
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Make sure you have a way to pay for rent each month! You don't want to upset any roommates or landlords.
8. Budget Your Money.
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Once you've secured a job or way of paying for your rent, make sure you know how to budget that money! Know what's important to buy and what you don't need.
9. It'll Be Hard.
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Living on your own is not an easy thing! You're grown up now! But you will get through it, I promise.
10. Have Fun!
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Although it's tough sometimes, enjoy your freedom! Spend your time wisely and spend it with people you love!
