Hey Bestie!
Moving to Virginia has been quite a journey, filled with both challenges and valuable lessons. As I embarked on this adventure, I found myself facing various situations(Read more about my 12 hours in Virginia) that taught me essential tips for a smoother transition. Today, I'm here to share these experiences with you, hoping it makes your move as smooth as possible!
The Move:
Moving to a new state is a significant change, and it often comes with a mix of excitement and anxiety. My own move to Virginia was prompted by school and to explore living in the DMV, and it opened up a world of possibilities. I hope my insights help you navigate this transition with confidence and ease.
Visit and Tour Apartments In-Person:
One of the most crucial steps in finding the perfect apartment is to visit and tour it in person. I made the mistake of relying solely on online photos and reviews. Walking through the space gives you a real sense of its size, layout, and overall feel. It helps you spot potential issues that might not be visible online, ensuring that you make a well-informed decision. Trust me, taking the time to physically visit apartments can save you from ending up in a place that doesn't truly meet your needs or expectations. One reason I didn't tour was because I wanted to save money; however, spending around $500 to overall be happy with your living space is totally worth it.
When I first got to my apartment I nearly cried, I can be DRAMAtic, but it just wasn't what I thought it was going to be and if I visited in person that could of been avoided.
Prepare Financially with a Solid Savings Account:
Financial stability is key to a stress-free move. I wish I had prioritized saving money before relocating. Having at least six months' worth of rent saved up provides a financial safety net.
It not only covers your living expenses but also gives you peace of mind during the transition period. Start saving early, create a budget, and set aside a dedicated portion of your income. This preparation ensures that you're financially secure and ready to handle any unexpected expenses that might come your way.
The budget doesn't have to have multiple line items. Simply:
What is the rent you can afford, estimate utilities you will be paying for, using your own utilities can act as an estimate, potential moving cost(UHaul, boxes and gas(if driving far))
To find out how much you can spend a month on rent, follow this rule:
Gross Income a month x 30% = Amount of rent you can afford a month.
Example: if you make $5,000 a month, the calculation would be: $5,000 x .30 = $1,500. This can also assist you in looking for the right apartments and knowing how much to save.
Measure Your Space and Plan Ahead for Furniture:
Moving to a new state is already overwhelming, and the last thing you want is to arrive and not have a bed to sleep on. I learned this the hard way. Measure your bedroom in advance, including doorways and any narrow spaces. This helps you choose the right-sized furniture, especially for essential items like bed frames. By planning ahead, you can order your furniture in advance, ensuring it arrives shortly after you move in. Having a comfortable and familiar space to unwind in can significantly reduce the stress of adjusting to a new environment.
Don't sleep on this, I slept with my bed on the floor for 3 weeks and it SUCKED. It definitely did not make my transition to a new state easier. I slept, ate, and worked in my bed. It was not as fun as maybe it seems!
What was your experience like?
I'd love to hear about your moving experiences too! Feel free to share your tips or any challenges you faced in the comments below. Let's create a supportive community where we can learn from each other and make our moves as seamless as possible.
Moving is an opportunity for a fresh start.
By learning from these experiences, you're better equipped to make your move to a new state as smooth and enjoyable as possible. Remember, it's not just about changing your location; it's an opportunity to grow, learn, and embrace new beginnings. You've got this, and I'm here cheering you on every step of the way!
Sending you prayers of guidance and a lot of positive energy!
xoxo,
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