Moving is often even more challenging than finding an apartment for rent in Kansas City, MO. The research process can be so arduous that you are barely left with any energy to prepare to move to an apartment worth calling home. Luckily, there are some key steps and common mistakes to keep in mind to make your move smoother.
At Plaza East Luxury Apartments, we understand that planning every step of the move process is essential to ensure you begin your new phase properly. Therefore, we’re here with a blog summarizing five common mistakes a renter should try to avoid when moving to their new apartment space.
1. Not Reading The Lease Agreement Properly
One major mistake that renters make is skimming through the lease agreement. Many don’t even read it, which can become a real issue. A lease is a legally binding contract, and skipping the fine print can put you in situations that could have been avoided. You must go through all of the rules regarding subletting, pet policies, and the penalties for breaking the lease agreement. Missing out on even one of these details can land you in a difficult situation.
Going through all the details would allow you to become aware of your rights and responsibilities as a tenant. While reading the contract, if you find anything unclear or confusing, get it clarified with the landlord immediately to avoid issues later on. Check for any extra fees you might be charged in the future that may not be mentioned in the contract. It’s always best to spend a few extra minutes reviewing all points in the lease before signing it.
2. Not Documenting The Apartment’s Condition
A typical dispute between tenant and landlord involves the condition of the apartment before move-in. It’s easy to get caught up in unpacking and decorating after moving into your new apartment, but it’s essential to document its condition. It might seem tedious, but it’s necessary if you want to get your security deposit back when you move out.
Take clear photos and videos of each room while looking for scratches on floors, stains on the walls or carpet, or any damage you may notice while inspecting the whole space. Prepare a list of your findings and share it with your landlord to stay protected from being charged for damages you haven’t done. During your stay at the apartment, if there were any disputes regarding the damages, you will have solid proof to show how the apartment was before moving in.
3. Failing To Pack Efficiently
Packing is a process that always takes longer than you expect, and doing last-minute packing can turn your move into a total nightmare. Many people throw their stuff into boxes without organizing it. This leads to broken items, lost stuff, and even frustration when unpacking in the new space. To avoid all this chaos, it’s best to start packing well in advance to stay on track.
Start with items you don’t use daily, like seasonal clothes, books, or decorative items. Try labeling each box appropriately with the things inside; that will also help unpacking. Avoid over filling the boxes, as it can lead to items breaking. Using these small tips can help you save so much time later on. Another step that you can take is to have a separate box named “moving day essentials” with things like toiletries, chargers, a change of clothes, and snacks. This way, you won’t have to dig through a ton of boxes to find your toothbrush or a snack. Remember, efficient packing can make moving much smoother and more organized.
4. Ignoring The Security Deposit Details
Renters should understand that they may not get their full security deposit back. It’s often a significant confusion for many people, especially when they are unclear about what causes deductions. It’s important to understand that they might only get a particular deposit amount back, as the rest gets withheld due to cleaning, minor damages, or unpaid rent.
To ensure you don’t face any of these uncertainties, understand each contract term, especially those linked to your security deposit. Ask your landlord about the difference between “normal wear and tear” and what damage means to them. Have a checklist on what is your responsibility to fix or clean when you move out.
5. Not Planning The Move Properly
Planning a move isn’t just about packing and unpacking boxes in your new space. There is a lot of planning and in-depth assessment of various factors that can make your move successful. Failing to plan your move can leave you scrambling without a clear direction. Without a plan, you can miss deadlines, forget essentials, and even lose track of your important belongings.
To avoid this common moving mistake, lock in your move-in date and start working backwards. Arrange for a moving truck or hire movers if you find them necessary. Confirm if the apartment will be ready on the move-in day. Don’t forget about transferring or setting up utilities like electricity, internet, and water to ensure everything is in order when you move in. The more detailed your plan is, the easier it will be to secure a smooth move to your new home.
Choose Plaza East As Your Next Luxury Apartment
Finding an apartment space that checks all your boxes is never easy. You must evaluate the neighborhood’s quality, consider the amenities offered, and check whether they fall within your budget. Paying attention to these small details ensures you choose the right apartment for you and your family.
Those seeking luxury apartments for rent in Kansas City, MO, can browse our list of available apartments and townhomes at Plaza East Luxury Apartments. Contact us today or plan a visit at 1500 E 46th St, Kansas City, MO 64110, to check our luxury apartments in person.
