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Getting ready for your first apartment move is both exciting and a little overwhelming, but you’ve got this! At Novel Cary in Cary, we know that moving for the first time comes with many questions. How do you set a budget? What should you pack first? When should you start apartment hunting? It can all feel like a lot, especially if you’re figuring things out on your own.
That’s why we created this step-by-step apartment move-in guide: to make your first move feel less like a guessing game and more like a confident next step. Whether you're searching for your first solo space, moving in with roommates, or transitioning out of student housing, there’s a lot to consider, but you don’t have to go it alone. Our team at Novel Cary is here to support you every step of the way.
This guide will walk you through the entire moving process, from choosing the right apartment to unpacking those last boxes and truly making your new space feel like home. It includes practical advice, helpful reminders, and simple strategies to help you stay organized, save money, and reduce stress.
Whether you're a recent grad, moving out on your own, or just ready for more independence, this list has the moving tips for renters you’ve been searching for. And the best part? Once you’re settled in, the freedom and joy of apartment living are well worth the effort. Let’s get started!
1. Figure out your budget and must-haves
Before you start apartment hunting, the first step is knowing what you can comfortably afford. Sit down and list out all your expected monthly expenses, not just rent. Things like utilities, internet, renter’s insurance, groceries, and everyday essentials can add up quickly.
It helps to use a budget calculator or app to estimate your spending. While you are at it, jot down what matters most to you in a home, maybe that's in-unit laundry, pet-friendly policies, or a certain square footage. Knowing your must-haves will help you stay focused during your search.
2. Start apartment hunting early
Good apartments go fast, so it pays to start looking at least 60 days before your preferred move-in date. At Novel Cary, our leasing team is ready to guide you through available floor plans, amenities, and everything you need to know about making our community your new home.
You can browse Floor Plans, explore Amenities, and get inspired by our Gallery. We offer in-person and virtual tours so you can confidently find your perfect space without needing to search elsewhere.
3. Apply and secure your apartment
Once you’ve found the apartment that feels right, it’s time to apply. Every community has slightly different requirements, but most applications are straightforward and completed online.
You may be asked to provide a valid photo ID, proof of income, and possibly rental history or references. Once approved, you’ll be invited to sign the lease. Be sure to read it thoroughly and don’t hesitate to ask the leasing team if anything is unclear. They're there to help make this process as smooth as possible.
4. Plan your move
With a lease signed, it's time to figure out the logistics. Decide whether you want to move on your own, ask friends for help, or hire professional movers.
Booking your truck or movers early is a smart move, especially during peak weekends. Start packing well in advance, and label each box with its destination room to make unpacking easier. Also, check with your apartment team if you need to schedule a specific move-in time or reserve an elevator.
5. Pack essentials separately
Avoid the chaos of digging through boxes on your first night by packing a dedicated essentials box. This simple step can make a big difference in how comfortable and organized your first 24 hours in the apartment feel. Think of it as your personal survival kit, the items you’ll want immediately without having to unpack everything else.
Your essentials box should include must-haves like toiletries, medications, a couple of changes of clothes, phone chargers, basic kitchenware, and important documents. It’s also smart to include some personal comfort items: a cozy blanket, your favorite coffee mug, or a book to wind down with after a long moving day.
Don’t forget practical things like scissors or a box cutter, a small tool kit, a roll of toilet paper, and paper towels, these can be lifesavers when you're setting up your space. Having snacks, bottled water, or even a simple breakfast for the next morning can help you ease into your new routine.
This essentials box should stay with you throughout the move. Whether you're driving or riding along with the movers, keep it close so it's accessible the moment you walk through the door. That way, even if the rest of your stuff arrives later or things get delayed, you’ll still have everything you need to settle in comfortably.
6. Set up your utilities and services
Before move-in day, make sure your apartment will be fully functional and ready for you to settle in. Depending on your lease, some services, like water, trash, or internet, may already be included in your rent, while others may require setup on your end.
Common services to check on:
- Electricity and gas
- Internet and cable
- Renter’s insurance
- Water, sewer, and trash (sometimes included)
Every apartment community is a little different, so reach out to your leasing team to confirm which utilities are your responsibility and which are already arranged. They may also be able to recommend preferred providers or offer setup tips to make the process easier.
And don’t forget, submit a mail forwarding request with USPS so your mail and packages follow you to your new home.
7. Walk through your apartment before moving in
Before your furniture and boxes arrive, take a few moments to walk through your new home and get familiar with the space. Even in a professionally managed community like Novel Cary, it’s helpful to know where everything is and how it all functions.
This is a great time to locate key features in your apartment, like:
- The thermostat and how to adjust the temperature
- The breaker box, just in case you ever need to access it
- Smoke and carbon monoxide detectors
- Water shut-off valves (if accessible)
Take a mental inventory of how the space flows, where outlets are located, and where you might place your furniture or décor. If you have any last-minute questions, like how to set up maintenance requests or when trash collection takes place, your leasing team will be happy to help.
Taking a short walk-through gives you a moment to settle in, ask questions, and feel fully at home in your new space.
8. Unpack with a plan
Unpacking can feel like a huge task, especially after the whirlwind of moving day. But having a strategy will help you settle in faster and avoid that "where did I put that?" feeling. Start with the essentials, then move room by room based on what you need most.
Begin with your bedroom so you have a cozy place to crash at the end of a long day. Set up your bed with fresh sheets, pillows, and blankets, you'll thank yourself later. Then tackle the bathroom so you can clean up and refresh easily.
Once those basics are covered, head to the kitchen and unpack enough to handle a few meals and your morning coffee. You don’t have to do it all at once. Focus on functionality first, then go back later to fine-tune your space.
Here are some helpful steps to guide your unpacking:
- Bedroom: Set up your bed, plug in lamps, and arrange essential clothing.
- Bathroom: Unpack toiletries, hang your shower curtain, stock towels and toilet paper.
- Kitchen: Set up plates, utensils, cookware, and basic pantry items like salt, oil, and snacks.
- Living area: Connect electronics, plug in lights, and set up seating.
- Closets/storage: Sort by season or frequency of use to keep things accessible.
Don’t worry if it doesn’t all come together on day one. Unpacking can take time, and that’s okay. Make it a playlist moment, light a candle, or invite a friend over to help you set up. The more you make it yours, the more your new apartment will feel like home.
9. Add finishing touches to make it feel like home
Now comes the fun part: decorating and adding your personal style. Whether you prefer a minimalist look or want your apartment to be full of cozy touches, there are plenty of renter-friendly options.
Try peel-and-stick wallpaper, removable decals, or accent lighting to elevate the space. Furniture from local thrift stores or online marketplaces can give your home personality without breaking the bank. A few houseplants, soft textiles, and art on the walls (hung with Command strips) can make your new place feel like home in no time.
Need ideas? Take a peek at our Gallery for inspiration.
Ready to make your first move?
Moving into your first apartment is a huge milestone, and you should be proud of yourself for reaching it. At Novel Cary in Cary, NC, we’re here to make your transition as smooth as possible with welcoming spaces, a helpful team, and everything you need to start fresh.
Have questions about availability, tours, or getting started? Give us a call at (919) 467-1268. Our team would love to help you find your next home.
Explore available Floor Plans or Book a Tour today, and take that exciting first step with us.