Leaving home and moving into your first apartment is a huge and important step in many people’s lives – with this, it can also be stressful and feel a little overbearing.

As a previous apartment manager who has helped countless individuals move into their first apartment home with Camden, and from personally moving into multiple different apartments myself (within different states), I am well-versed on the nuances of first-time apartment renters.

Here are five tips I have constructed to help new renters navigate apartment living!

Tip 1: Do Your Research

Do your research! Research the area you are moving to and the average apartment rental rates there. In the past, I moved from Houston, Texas, to Denver, Colorado, where the average apartment rate was much higher. This can catch many people off guard if you have not researched the average rental rates for your new city and can affect your budget. Camden has a user-friendly website to help you find a Camden apartment in your current or new city. Here, you can find details on the community, view the different floor plans and you can make sure you find an apartment that fits your budget.

Photo Courtesy of Camden Rainey Street, in Austin, TX

Tip 2: Know What You Need/Want

Before searching for your new apartment home, set some guidelines for yourself to help narrow down your search. Know what you can afford, how much space you need, and how many bedrooms you may need. Sticking to a budget is a significant factor to take into consideration – renting an apartment within your budget will help you live comfortably in your new home.

Do you ever work from home? If it’s within your budget, a one-bedroom with a flex space or office space may work best for you – although if you are looking for a budget-friendly option, it is possible to find a one-bedroom apartment space with a large enough living area for a desk. Also, take into consideration the size of your furniture and the amount of items you have. Moving can be a wonderful opportunity to help you declutter. Donate and dispose of furniture/items you may not need anymore.

Photo Courtesy of Camden Flatirons in Denver, CO

Tip 3: Communicate with your Leasing Team

Communicating with the leasing team at your new Camden community is an important part of finding the perfect apartment and then moving in. Our leasing team at Camden is here to assist you find the perfect apartment home for you and your needs. They will know the details of the apartment community and the apartment homes more than anyone. Utilize this resource! After reserving your new apartment home, our Camden leasing team will reach out to you with all the information needed to move you in. This will include setting up utilities, signing your lease, and even details on your new neighborhood.

Tip 4: Read Your Lease

This is the tip that I highlight the most with anyone I know moving into a new apartment (first one or not). Reading your lease is always recommended before moving into your new home. In your lease, you will find all the details on the community rules, when to pay rent, and all the information needed to live in your new Camden community. As a first-time renter, this can be very important since you may not be familiar with apartment living or community guidelines. Your Camden leasing team are there to assist with any about your lease!

Tip 5: Have a Plan

Once you have done your research, and found which Camden apartment community and apartment you will move into, make sure to lay out your plan. Ensure all items are completed for your new apartment, arrange for the appropriate movers, make sure your job is aware, and most importantly, get excited about this brand-new step in life!

I hope these tips can be resourceful to anyone moving into their first apartment home! All of the information and details provided before moving can be stressful, although with appropriate preparation and help from your Camden leasing team, you can fully enjoy this exciting time in your life! Now that you are ready to move in, here are a few tips for setting up your home office.