10 Tips for Moving with Roommates
Moving with roommates can either be a nightmare or a successful project that you will enjoy. Plenty of communication and great organization skills will lead you and your roommates through the toughest challenges. Moving can be stressful, but with the right tips, you can prevent most of the issues that can arise. This is why we have created this useful guide with tips for moving with roommates. If you find the relocation part too difficult, you can always hire a moving and storage Brooklyn NY company to help you transport your belongings safely and efficiently.
Set a budget
If there is one certain way to avoid possible quarrels, it is defining as many things as possible upfront. One of these things is the moving budget. Each roommate will have their income, but the moving budget is something where everyone participates. Clearly define the moving budget, how much you are ready to give for movers, utilities, rent, deposit, packing and cleaning supplies, etc. Once you have set the budget, be careful not to go over it.
Agree on who gets items that you bought together
Although you are just moving in with roommates, there will come a time when you will have to move out. Often roommates decide to buy several pieces of furniture or appliances together when they start living together. The issue arises when you move out of the apartment and you don`t know who gets what. Agree about who will get which piece of furniture or any other item in the apartment that you bought together.
Create a to-do list
Sit down with your roommates and create the ultimate moving checklist. This will make your relocation much easier, more effective, and most importantly you will avoid any misunderstandings. Define together everything that has to be done. Assign the tasks to each person. You and each of your roommates should know exactly what you should do to make the relocation more successful. Make a copy of the to-do list and tick off all the tasks as you complete them.
Don`t forget to turn on utilities
Moving with roommates can sometimes lead to a situation where something is not done because you thought someone else would do it. A great way to prevent this is by making the to-do list we already mentioned. This often happens with utilities. Before you move in with your roommates, you need to cancel the utilities you have now and set them up in your new apartment. Define which services and utilities will be under your name and which under your roommates` names. Also agree on who will pay for which bills, or you will split everything into equal parts.
Start with the preparations on time
When you are moving on your own it is easy to see whether you are falling behind the schedule or can relax knowing that everything has been done. Moving with roommates, on the other hand, means that everyone`s needs must be met. Allow yourself plenty of time for moving preparations. Think about important decisions such as where you are going to live, how much rent you can pay, how much space you need, etc. Act only when you have agreed with your roommates that it is in your best interest to make a certain decision. Starting on time means that even in case something happens that sets you back, you have enough time to adapt.
Communication is the key when moving with roommates
Communication is the key to almost every relationship in life, and your relations with roommates are no different. Moving is a stressful period in a person`s life and it can test your patience in many ways. To prevent any possible quarrels, or tensions rising, communicate often to your roommates. Tell each other what you did from the to-do list, communicate your plans, desires, and intentions. This is the only way that your relocation with roommates will be successful.
Discuss important aspects of your life together
One of the main reasons why roommates stop living together is the fact that they do not agree on some important everyday aspects. Thoroughly discuss the topic of owning pets inside the apartment, smoking, guests. Try to reach a compromise whenever possible. If you don`t want to have guests over and have a cat for years, it may be hard to adjust to someone with different needs.
Hire a reliable moving company
Moving with roommates requires a lot of communication and organization. Each party has to complete their personal and mutual tasks as well. One of the ways to make relocation easier for everyone is to hire a reliable moving company. Depending on where you are moving to, you should hire a reliable local or NYC interstate moving company. Professional moving staff will carefully pack, transport, store, and unpack all of your belongings while you are dealing with more important tasks. One of the best benefits of hiring movers is that you will have more free time to coordinate the move, instead of being tired all the time. Movers will do everything for you – they will even get the must-have packing and moving supplies, so you wouldn’t have to bother about it either. They can also help you unpack efficiently after the move is over.
Throw a welcoming party
After the relocation is finished and you managed to decorate your new place with your roommates, it is time to throw a welcoming party. Invite the people you all know, order some pizza, and create new memories. A welcoming party does not have to be expensive at all. It is enough to be in a good mood, and that there are no more moving boxes left to unpack. Enjoy your party as you deserve it after moving with roommates.
Don`t forget to keep your healthy habits
Relocation can be stressful if you take it too seriously. Moving with roommates is a new adventure and a challenge that you can deal with in a stress-free way. With the right organization, there is no need for you to stop jogging, doing yoga, listening to music, or eating healthy. Dedicate at least one hour to your wellbeing and do what makes you happy. After all, health is the most important thing in our life, and no amount of moving boxes can change that.