5 Ways to Figure Out Your First Apartment Must-Haves

March 18, 2014 | By Alex AuthorMy First Apartment

When you’re in the market for an apartment, it’s easy to dream. Perhaps a bit too easy. You want lots of space, cheap rent, a balcony, a doorman, maybe even a swimming pool and a gym. Laundry in-unit, of course, a nice flower box with ever-blooming roses … and then you pinch yourself and return…

Should You Seek Out a Roommate Who’s Different From You?

March 16, 2014 | By Alex AuthorMy First Apartment

The fat envelope has just arrived from your top-choice college. While you’re still rejoicing, you realize you’ll have to live with a stranger in a dorm room next year. Yes, you’ll have to fill out some forms to get matched up with a roommate, but even before you get there, you need to decide: do you…

Your Rent Just Went Way Up: What Are Your Options?

March 5, 2014 | By Alex AuthorMy First Apartment

You love your place, you’re getting a deal, and you’re all set to renew. Your landlord slips the renewal notice under your door … and then you see it. Your rent is going up. Way up – like 30% or more. You’re floored. You love your place, and now you have to move. How can…

Should You Renew Your Lease? 7 Questions to Help You Decide

February 28, 2014 | By Alex AuthorMy First Apartment

Your lease is up soon and you’re pondering whether you want to renew. Sometimes, it’s a slam-dunk: of course you want to renew. Other times, it’s a no-brainer: no way you’re living in such a dump another year. But this time you’re just not sure. Your current place is okay … but you don’t love…

First Apartment Budgeting Basics: Your Monthly Expenses Checklist

February 21, 2014 | By Alex AuthorMy First Apartment

You’ve signed the lease and you have a move-in date. You know how much rent you can afford. But what are your expenses once you move in? Let’s break it down. First, there’s the moving. This is a one-time expense, but it can be a big one. You need to decide whether you’re using movers…

How Long Will It Take? Apartment Search Timeline

February 3, 2014 | By Alex AuthorMy First Apartment

Last fall we estimated how much you’ll need to save up before you can move out. (Rule of thumb: If you save an amount equal to about 8-10% of your annual salary, you’ll be in good shape.) So by now you’ve been saving for 4-5 months, and you’re ready to make your move. But how long will it be before you’re…

What is a Railroad Apartment and Should You Rent One?

January 29, 2014 | By Alex AuthorMy First Apartment

If you’re thinking of living in New York City, in Boston or in Washington, D.C. , you may have heard of a “railroad” apartment. But what is it? And should you consider renting one? First, a definition: in NYC, a railroad apartment is typically an apartment without hallways, where each room opens onto the next.…

New Year’s Resolutions You Can Actually Keep

December 30, 2013 | By Alex AuthorMy First Apartment

Maybe last year’s resolution to hit the gym and drop 10 pounds didn’t work out so well, nor did that plan to write a best seller. Perhaps you were over-reaching a bit. Luckily, a new year means new beginnings and a chance to make realistic resolutions you can actually keep. Last new year, we had tips for getting…

The Pros and Cons of Apartment Hunting in the Winter

December 1, 2013 | By Alex AuthorMy First Apartment

Most people don’t want to move in the winter and for good reason: it’s cold, the weather is unpredictable and there’s a glut of holidays and related travel that can make preparing difficult. But what if you have to move? How can you turn it to your advantage? Here are some things to think about: There…

Host Your Own “Friendsgiving”

November 18, 2013 | By Alex AuthorMy First Apartment

With Thanksgiving around the corner, you’re probably headed home – or, if you’re far from home, to a friend’s relative’s celebration. But, maybe you want to celebrate with your peeps. That’s reasonable – for the past year you’ve been living in your own home. Your friends and roommates make up your day-to-day world and you…