State College Apartment Guide: Surviving Move In 2022
It's thrilling and a little nerve-wracking to move into your first apartment. When you move out on your own for the first time, you take on a lot of responsibility, but you also open yourself up to a wealth of exciting new experiences. The first time someone moves into their place, they rarely do an excellent job setting it up. However, you'll pick up the ropes as you go! When renting your first apartment as a Penn State student, there are several factors to consider. The process involves many moving components, and you will inevitably leave something behind when you move. However, you can take steps to help the process go more smoothly and avoid making rookie mistakes.
Look for An Apartment Close To Penn State University
Locating a home near PSU might help you save money on transportation costs. Also, apartment complexes, like university campuses, often feature increased security measures, such as closed doors and gates.
Create A Recording Of The Location
Keeping detailed records can increase your chances of getting your security deposit refunded. A straightforward method is to film the space while taking notes on anything of interest. You may use the footage as proof later when moving out. Having footage of the apartment eliminates any confusion on the landlord's part when it comes time to return your security deposit.
Check For Issues Before Moving
Your eagerness to move into your new apartment might cloud your judgment. Stop, take a deep breath, and ensure everything in your flat works well before you move. The apartment owner will clean it well before you arrive. However, a quick inspection to make sure everything is working correctly never hurts. You may discover cleaning, maintenance, or preexisting damage problems, such as a cooktop dent. Address any concerns you have with the landlord or management company. They can either note it on the walkthrough as preexisting damage or have the maintenance team conduct a fast repair before you move in.
Plan Your Finances
Getting your first State College apartment is an exciting time, but it requires careful preparation. Budgeting for expenditures is one of the primary distinctions between on-campus and off-campus housing. To start, you need a plan covering essentials like housing, food, and bills. However, you'll also need to think about things you hadn't before cooking utensils, toilet paper, and more. Furthermore, some student housing establishments provide furniture, although this is not always the case. Therefore, you may also need to allocate funds for furnishings. Don't just hope you have enough money on hand to pay for everything when it comes up; make a budget instead. It's helpful to keep track of your spending during the first month or two of independence since it's difficult to predict how much money you'll need. Doing so will ascertain whether your budget is realistic and if there are any areas where you can cut costs.
Create a Fair Cost-Sharing Strategy
If you want to live off-campus, you'll probably have to find a roommate or two unless you have a great part-time job or find inexpensive apartments in State College. And when you have roommates, you not only share living space but also share costs. Therefore, a predetermined strategy for dividing joint costs might help eliminate misunderstandings and tension. The first step is to settle on a monetary figure. Second, you must determine how to divide the rent, utilities, and other costs associated with sharing the apartment. In addition, remember that it's ideal to include everyone on the lease and all utility bills. Doing so ensures that everyone takes responsibility for their share of the total cost.
Establish a Strategy for Allocating Chores
Living with others necessitates not just sharing costs but also duties around the house. Therefore, sit down and plan how you'll split up the essential home duties. For example, you can create a timetable where everyone in the home takes turns completing the chores. Put the schedule where everyone can see it, like on the refrigerator or a bulletin board. Although taking turns is a wonderful method, you can split up the work depending on your preferences. It ensures that you do everything correctly. Ultimately, reaching a clear agreement is more important than deciding how to divide the responsibilities; disagreements will likely develop later if things are left hazy or unclear.
Set Up The Essentials
As part of your monthly rent payment, the building owner or management firm will often take care of some utilities. However, you'll have to set up certain utilities, such as gas and electricity, the internet, and cable, to get started. Setting up these services shouldn't take more than a single afternoon.
Inventory and Organize Flexibly
When you first see your apartment, the place seems much larger than it is. Therefore, figuring out how to organize and set up your living space may be challenging. Nonetheless, don't get stuck in the mindset that you must organize everything flawlessly. Instead, take stock of your possessions and eliminate the unnecessary stuff you no longer need. A spacious and well-organized State College apartment is better than living in a jumbled mess daily.
Consider Obtaining Renter's Insurance
Insurance for renters often includes protection against perils like fire and theft. For security and peace of mind in your first State College apartment, consider getting renter's insurance either when signing the lease or from a separate provider.
Moving into your first apartment in State College after joining university is significant. Since this is your first time living independently, you'll need to organize yourself and make time and effort to prepare. Though there are several obstacles to overcome, independence is liberating and enjoyable. Try to take advantage of your newfound freedom. Also, don't be ashamed to seek financial assistance from your family or friends.
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