It’s move-in day. You've signed your lease, the U-haul is parked out front, and your friends have begrudgingly agreed to spend their morning helping you get situated. But as they haul your sofa up two flights of stairs and attempt to maneuver it through the narrow doorway, you realize there is no way it's going to fit.
We all know someone who has had a moving experience like this. But these fiascoes are avoidable! Here's a list of everything you need when searching for a new apartment or home to make the process run as smoothly as possible.
What to bring:
A list of any furniture you want to bring with you and the measurements for each piece.
As you're walking through the new space, ask yourself which pieces will go where and if there is space for everything you want to bring. Are there strange angles that will make it tough to place your sectional? Is your TV too large for the wall you'd want to put it on? If you plan to stay in the new place long term, it may be worth it to forgo some of your furniture that doesn’t fit if you love the space; you’ll be able to find new pieces more easily than another listing you absolutely love. These considerations could save you time and money in the long run.
A tape measure
Make sure to get measurements of all doorways and hallways, both outside and inside the unit. This includes the ceiling height! If you'll need to purchase any major appliances, like a refrigerator or washer/dryer, measure those spaces too so you'll be able to get an accurate order and price. Again, if there are strange angles or characteristics, like bay windows or rounded walls, make sure to measure those too so you'll know what furniture will fit in those spaces.
Something to take notes with
A pen and notebook, a tablet, a quill and parchment; it doesn't matter what it is as long as you have some place to record your thoughts and any important details the landlord or broker gives you. This is especially important if you are seeing multiple listings. It's amazing how much they can all blend together and the details you can forget. Is there a broker's fee? Security deposit? Elderly neighbors? Make a note. It'll save you a headache later on. To make things even simpler, use the Steel Lotus Apartment Tour Checklist.
A camera
In the age of smartphones, most of us have a camera with us 24/7. When you're touring a potential listing, make sure you use it! This can be especially helpful if you'll be living with roommates that couldn't make the tour. Get a good snapshot of each room as well as of any important details like closets or any existing visible damage. You'll be able to use these photos when comparing listings, furniture shopping, subletting down the road, and much more.
A charger or something that plugs in
You'll want to make sure the electrical is working properly before you sign a lease. Since most people don't bother with any type of inspection if they're only leasing, it's good to do a few tests yourself for safety's sake. Bring along a charger or something else you can plug in. Does it work? Does anything spark? Chances are everything is fine, but it's better to be safe than sorry.
What to check:
As you’re taking the tour, make sure you check for these items and record any issues.
Water pressure and all faucets/shower heads
If you don't remember to check anything else, make sure you do this one. Walk through the unit and turn on all of the faucets and shower heads. Make sure the water pressure is sufficient, especially in the kitchen sink and shower. As Kelly Williams Brown wrote in her book, Adulting, you don't want your shower to feel like an old man’s pee. And once you're moved in, there's not a whole lot you can do about it.
Neighbors
This is something your broker or landlord will probably tell you anyway, but it's always good to do a little digging about who lives in your neighborhood on you own. If you like to go to bed early, it's probably best if you don't live above or below someone who works nights or throws parties. Conversely, if you love to entertain, you'll want to make sure your neighbors won't be bothered by noise at night, so no families with young kids or elderly people. Again, it's easier to do a little recon before you move in than it is to do damage control later.
Street noise/air planes
If the listing is on a busy street or near an airport, make sure you have a few moments of quiet during your tour to listen for noise, especially in the bedrooms. Outside noise is more likely to be a problem in older homes in which the windows might leak or the walls aren't properly insulated, but be sure to pay attention. If the noise is bothersome during the tour, it probably won't be any better when you're trying to sleep.
Closets
Open each closet in the unit. Is there sufficient storage? Closets can be smaller than they appear, so be sure to double check. Also, if you have a hobby that requires lots of equipment, like hockey or skiing, make sure there's somewhere to store your gear.
Light switches
Just flip each switch quickly to make sure they all work. Any issues should be dealt with before you move in.
Heat/ air conditioning
Find the heating/cooling unit and turn it on to see if it’s working. The heat should be no problem, but you don't want to end up moving in to a place that was advertised (and priced) to have A.C. only to find that it doesn't actually work.
Windows/screens
Check the windows in the unit, especially if you don't have air conditioning. Do they open all the way? Are there screens in addition to the glass? If you like to have windows open and don't want bugs, screens are a must.