Atlas apartment movers make your move simpler. In this guide, you will find answers to common questions about everything from finding your first apartment to ensuring that you get your deposit back when you move out. Follow these pointers and expect a stress-free move.
If you are moving to a college or university community, summer offers the best selection of available apartments. However, because school is out, summer is the most popular time for moving in general. Typically, this means having to book a mover further in advance.
In urban areas, the best time to move varies. People tend to stay put during the November and December holiday season, so you may see fewer apartments available. On the other hand, you have a better chance of finding a deal.
Late April is usually a good time for moving apartments. You can beat the busy summer season, and the weather is typically mild enough to make moving more pleasant.
Get quotes from moving companies six weeks before your apartment move to make sure movers are available and ensure you get the best deal.
Ultimately, the best time for your apartment move depends on multiple factors. Some, like your city's availability of housing, are beyond your control. Talk to your local Atlas mover. Our professional moving experts can provide informative advice and knowledge about the rental community you are moving into.
Whether you are looking for basic living or upscale extras, you are wise to start looking early for the perfect apartment. Once you determine the neighborhood you would like to live in, schedule viewings of several different apartments in the area and do some comparison shopping.
When you walk through an apartment, have these items with you:
Print the Atlas Apartment Comparison Checklist (pdf) for each apartment you visit and record your findings. But do not stop there—knock on doors, introduce yourself, and ask these questions:
Once you find the apartment you want, be ready to act. Have your checkbook, proof of income, references, and credit report on hand. When you meet with the manager, be punctual, neat, and friendly. The good impression you make will work in your favor.
If you are disabled, you can find accessible apartments on popular websites, such as: Apartments.com, ForRent.com, MyNewPlace.com, and Rentals.com. Specify "disability access" or "handicap access" to locate places that can accommodate you.
A rental lease is a legally binding, written agreement between you (lessee) and the landlord (lessor). It is usually a standard form. However, it may be amended by writing changes on the document; both you and the landlord must initial the changes to show you agree. Make sure you do the following before signing:
If you do not understand something in the lease, ask what it means. Never sign a lease with blanks to be filled in later. And never settle for an oral agreement. If it is not in writing, you have no proof to support you in a dispute.
If you have doubts about anything in a lease agreement, talk to an attorney.
Follow this move-in checklist for a smooth apartment move.
Your local Atlas mover provides professional-grade, do-it-yourself packing materials at reasonable prices, along with professional apartment moving services.
Moving into a new apartment can be an exciting but also overwhelming experience. To ensure a smooth transition and make your new space feel like home, here are some necessities you may want to consider:
Moving out of an apartment is rarely as fun as moving in, but following these moving out tips will prevent it from becoming chaitoc.
If you rent month-to-month, notify your landlord in writing at least 30 days before your move. Leases usually include a clause about how much notice a landlord requires if you do not intend on renewing. If your lease does not specify, it might not be necessary, but it is a nice courtesy to give them at least 30 days of notice. They will need that time to find a new occupant.
Moving out of an apartment can be costly, so getting your security deposit back will help your budget. A security deposit may equate to one month's rent or more. As a rule, you should get it back within 30 days after you vacate. If you have not received your deposit back after 30 days, contact your landlord and confirm that they have your forwarding address and are aware that you are owed a deposit.
A good relationship with your landlord works in your favor. It will help you get a timely return of your security deposit.
The landlord is not allowed to deduct for normal wear and tear, nor refuse to refund without a reason. Sometimes damage can occur when moving out. If you use a reputable mover, you will not have to worry. Your local Atlas mover, for example, carries insurance in the unlikely event your apartment is damaged in the moving process.
When it comes to moving out of an apartment, there is often confusion about whether you need to clean the space before leaving. The answer to this question largely depends on your lease agreement and the expectations of your landlord or property manager.
Many lease agreements include a clause stating that tenants are responsible for leaving the apartment in a clean and tidy condition upon move-out. This means that you may be required to clean the floors, countertops, appliances, and bathroom fixtures. You may also need to remove any trash, dust, or debris that has accumulated during your tenancy.
If you fail to clean the apartment properly, you may be subject to cleaning fees or deductions from your security deposit. However, some landlords may offer cleaning services as an option for an additional fee, so be sure to check with your landlord or property manager to determine the specific requirements for your situation.
Overall, it is always a good idea to leave your apartment as clean as possible when moving out. Not only does it help ensure a smooth and amicable transition with your landlord, but it also ensures you will receive your security deposit in a timely manner.