There are a couple of significant milestones in the life of every person: graduating from college, finding the first job, or getting a new car, but moving from an apartment to a house for the first time is a special one. Although upsizing is usually perceived as a positive change, it’s still a huge adjustment that comes with a lot of unknowns and dilemmas. You’re literally starting to live life outside of a box and venturing into uncharted territory, so we curated this brief guide to help you go through this transition as smoothly as possible.
When Is the Right Time to Find a New Home?
When it comes to transitions like this, the majority of people think that relocating to a bigger space is a natural choice that happens by default. But that’s not always the case. Some don’t mind moving to a smaller home if they have their outdoor space; others are moving with a dog or kids and want a backyard for them. Perhaps this was one of your New Year resolutions for 2020.
The bottom line, finding a reason is easy, but finding the right home is not so much. Regardless of whether the place you are looking at is bigger or smaller, if you have stumbled upon a good deal, take it, because the pros of living in a spacious house with a yard usually outweigh the cons for many families.
The need for bigger space comes naturally, and it's one of those milestones we all look forward to.
Is There a Difference in the Cost of Living?
If you have been renting so far, then you know that besides rent, you have utilities as additional costs. The same applies to those who plan to rent their houses. However, if you are looking to buy one, there are several things you should count in when it comes to expenses.
Property taxes and mortgage payments are only some of those extras. Keep in mind that maintenance is usually more expensive because suddenly, you have to take care of the exterior and outdoor space as well. The location plays a significant role, as well. In other words, living in the suburbs won’t cost as much as staying close to the city center.
couple with piggy bank
Why You’ll Love Living in a House
Are you tired of listening to your neighbors fighting all the time, crying babies, and who knows what else in the building? You don’t know how to deal with neighbors that complain about everything? You are just one step away from saying goodbye to all that if you are relocating into a house.
Pros of Moving From an Apartment to a House
- You can have a garden and backyard
- There is no one living above, beneath, or next to you
- You don’t have to listen to your neighbors
- Privacy, privacy, privacy
- More space
- Your pets and children can have their own playground
If you like your privacy more than anything, this will be the best decision you've ever made.
Essential Tips for Moving From an Apartment to a House
If you want to do this without worrying about how to handle the stress during the move, then take a look at some of these tips for a stress-free relocation.
Organization Tips and Tricks
While you are getting organized to move, it’s essential to create several checklists that will help you keep everything under control before a professional moving service company steps in. The most important one is, of course, the household inventory list. Organize it by rooms, use a color-coding system, or just make complete content lists for every box, especially if you plan to use storage services. After a few weeks, you’ll forget what is where, and that is precisely when these lists will come in handy.
Rearrange the Space in Your Home
People who live in apartments often have to make compromises when it comes to the purpose of certain rooms. Not only are you finally going to get your garage and parking space, (feel free to book auto transport), but a more spacious home allows you to reorganize your living space and perhaps finally get that home office or a playroom. Here are some things to keep in mind when setting up your office:
- Make sure you have enough natural light
- Find a comfortable work chair
- Keep it simple, but feel free to add some decor
- Make sure you have enough storage space
Are You Upsizing?
If you are relocating into a significantly bigger space, do not forget you’ll probably need additional pieces of furniture, carpets, and curtains. If you don’t plan to purchase them right now, don’t be disappointed if your new home looks empty or out of balance. After you add a few items, everything will fall into its place.
What’s New?
Do you know how to use a lawnmower? Set up sprinklers? Do you like gardening? A backyard brings so many joys and so many new tasks. From collecting leaves during the fall, cleaning the snow, or gardening during the summer, those are only some of the responsibilities you’ll have to get used to, so make sure you know how to do them right.
Security and Insurance-Related Questions
Besides getting moving insurance to make sure that all those packing service activities weren’t for nothing, you should also consider insuring your property. Homeowners’ insurance is a good investment, and it won’t take much of your time. Another major concern is security. Make sure you install a good security system that will cover your entire property, just in case.
There are a few things you'll need to consider, but it's nothing that you can't get used to.
What Kind of a Lifestyle Change Can You Expect?
Every relocation is a change, but when you’re changing the type of space you live in, it all gets a different perspective. For example, perhaps you were living on the 12th floor, but now you’re in a place with only two levels. On the other hand, your old apartment maybe didn’t even have a balcony, but now you have a backyard where you can entertain friends, make BBQ, organize outdoor parties, or just lounge and soak in the sun. It all depends on your preferences: some people enjoy living in a box with no outdoor space, but generally speaking, a bigger home does come with more freedom.
One of the things you have to keep in mind is that you'll need to take care of the outdoor space as well.
Leaving the Apartment Life Behind You
Are you ready to say goodbye to your apartment? Sure, you had a lot of good memories there, and perhaps, in the beginning, you won’t be so impressed with your new lifestyle in a house. You might feel too lazy to deal with gardening and other outdoor activities, but with time, we are sure you’ll get used to it and start enjoying all the benefits.
