Tag Archive for: first apartment

first apartment

What You Need in Your First Apartment

first apartment

What You Need in Your First Apartment

Getting your first apartment is exciting. It is like being handed a blank canvas because you now have a space you can make your own. There are certain essentials that you need to make your new apartment truly a home. Some of these are no-brainers, but others are things you may have not thought of. Here are some helpful tips for when you’re getting set up in your first apartment.

Your Mail Situation

Is there a community mailroom or do you have a front door slot? If you have large packages is there a main office area where they are stored if you’re away when they arrive? Many apartment owners who don’t want packages left outside their doors elect to set up a P.O. Box at their local post office. You can contact the local post office about setting one of these up, and many offices allow access to them 24 hours a day.

Utilities

Some apartments include utilities as part of their rent, but most of the time your electricity, water, phone, cable, and more need to be set up in your name. You will have to make sure you contact the service providers before you move in, so everything is ready to go on move-in day. Your landlord can likely help you get in contact with the service providers, but some like cable and internet will likely need to schedule an installation time.

Get Furniture

You’ll need some essentials like a bed, a table, chairs, etc., but be sure to take measurements before going on a shopping spree. This goes beyond measuring each room, too. Be sure to measure the doorway and hallways so you can physically get your new furniture into the home. If you’re looking to save a bit of money be sure to check out consignment stores or donation shops.

Invest in a Set of Tools

Getting a good set of tools for your first home is definitely essential. You can always use a screwdriver, wrench or socket set for any number of things. Many stores offer tool sets with virtually everything you could ever need for $30-40 and they often come in a convenient carrying case as well. This keeps things organized and mobile at the same time.

Change Your Address

If you’re already at the post office to set up a P.O. Box you can also request a change of address form. This will make sure that your mail is forwarded when you’re ready. As a bonus, most of these packets come with coupons that will help you in your move. You’ll still need to contact your bank and anywhere else that needs a formal change of address notification, but changing your address with the post office will forward your mail in the meantime.

Finally, Explore the Area

Your new apartment brings you a whole new world. Be sure to take time and explore the area for shops, restaurants, parks, and more. Get to know what is around you so you can fully acclimate yourself to the area.

Kitchen

Things to Stock in Your First Apartment Kitchen

First apartment kitchen

Things to Stock in Your First Apartment Kitchen

You’ve done it! You’ve moved out on your own for the first time and you have your first apartment. It can be a daunting experience because of any number of reasons, especially after you move in. Now that you have all of your things in the apartment it is time to start making it a home. A great place to start is the kitchen.

The thing is, you may not know what you need in your new kitchen. Here are a few ideas for what you need in your first kitchen to make many great meals.

Boning Knife

Every kitchen needs a good knife that is also versatile. A mid-sized boning knife can serve many purposes. It can slice and dice fruits and vegetables as well as meat. Boning knives can serve a variety of purposes across many food groups. They are a great prep tool for any meal. If you want to save space by having just one knife this is the choice to go with.

Saucepan

The saucepan is the do-everything utensil in every kitchen. The common size is three-quarts, but going with a five-quart saucepan can also work. These pans can be used soups, sauces, hot cocoa, or even a frying pan if needed. As long as they have oven-safe handles you can even use them for roasts and more.

Measuring Cups

These are essential devices for almost any time of cooking, but especially for baking. Stainless steel measuring cups are the best choice. If you select plastic cups they can break easily, while stainless steel cups are durable and can even last in the dishwasher.

Mixing Bowl

When it comes to mixing bowls, the larger, the better. It is easier to use a large mixing bowl for small tasks than a small mixing bowl for large tasks. If cost or space is an issue a large mixing bowl is the way to go because it is one tool for many purposes. If you can get a tempered glass bowl it will be even more durable.

Spatula

Rubber spatulas are hygienic and they last longer than a traditional wooden spoon. They also work well with hot saucepans. Their flexibility allows you to scrape ingredients out of bowls so nothing goes to waste.

These are just five tools, but they are great for stocking your kitchen and getting life in your new apartment off to a great start.