Moving to Florida can open the door to many new opportunities. Finding the right apartment is the first step in making a new start. Once you have decided to move, you should first consider hiring a real estate agent in the area where you plan to relocate. They will know the area and know what type of properties are available.
Here are six tips that can come in handy for first-time renters in Florida.
- Know What You Need
In order to find the right apartment or home, you will have to determine what you need and want. Are you downsizing, or are you moving your whole family? Will you have to find a good school system? Do you have a preference when it comes to living close to the beach, or do you want to live in the heart of town? Finding the perfect home for you and your family will take a little work, but you can find what you are looking for if you know exactly what you need.
- Find a Reputable Moving Company
Moving is a lot of work, and it can be an overwhelming task if you don’t have a lot of help. It may be worth the extra cost to hire a reputable moving company to do all of the heavy work for you. The movers will do as much of the packing as you need them to do, and they will take care of loading and unloading the truck. If a large truck is needed, they have professional drivers who will ensure your possessions get to your new home in good condition.
- Know Where to Go for Moving Supplies
Most hardware and department stores carry tape, packing supplies, and cardboard boxes. Many moving companies also have supplies you can purchase that will be delivered when they bring the truck to start loading it. You can start collecting boxes from most retail stores as well. This will allow you to get a head start at packing the things you don’t use very often. Don’t forget to pick up a few permanent markers so you can label each box.
- Pack to Relocate
If you are packing to relocate, it will take a little time to get organized. Pack as much stuff as you can during the month before the move. By the time you call for the movers, the only things left are the things you use most often. You will need to pack your essentials and make sure they can ride with you so that you have what you need until the truck is unloaded. Label each box to know what room it goes in when it is unloaded off the truck.
- Work with Your Landlord
It’s important that you know your rights as a renter. First, you will want to go through the apartment and inspect it thoroughly. If you see anything that you think needs to be fixed, bring it to your landlord’s attention. Let them know if you have pets or need certain considerations, such as an additional railing. There may be a few things you will be able to negotiate. Discuss your options and find out what your landlord is willing to offer.
- Examine Your Rental Contract
Your rental contract is legal and binding, so you will want to know everything it contains before signing it. Find out what day the rent is due and if there is a grace period. You will also want to find out about their maintenance and inspection policies as well. Talk to the landlord if you find something in the contract that you disagree with. It may be something they are willing to negotiate. If not, you may want to move elsewhere.
If you are looking to make Florida your new home, your move will start with finding the right apartment. As soon as you find your new home and sign on the dotted line, you will need to purchase a good renter’s policy. Contact us at Locke Insurance Group today, and we will help you find the coverage you need to protect yourself and your family.