How to afford your first apartment

You might want to look on the outskirts of the city instead of right in the downtown area. Costs in the city can be through the roof depending on what area you are in. In my neck of the woods, a one bedroom apartment downtown is more than my friends mortgages for much larger houses in the suburbs. Unless your boyfriend is working a steady job or you get one in the meantime before trying to rent, they may reject your application. You should focus on getting a steady job first, and be there at least a few months.

As for furnishing, start buying stuff now a little at a time and storing it away until you are ready to move. Don't pass up any opportunities that arise between now and the time you move out. If you see someone getting rid of some furniture you could use, snag it, if there is a big markdown on something at the store you need, grab it. These deals aren't all going to be around when you are ready to move.

 

I agree with Ohiotom about keeping an eye out for deals. I bought all my towels and throw pillows for 75% off because the store was clearing out all the college dorm merchandise. I found my baking pans marked down after Christmas. Don't go overboard with spending, you need to save up a security deposit, but if you see a fantastic deal on something that you're going to need for your apartment, go for it.
I just moved and it would have been more expensive to go out right now and buy the items I've been buying on sale over the past couple of years.

 

I would concentrate on finding work and saving money for the move. You can find used furniture but I wouldn't buy any until you know the space you will be furnishing. Friends and family probably can help you by giving you the stuff they don't really need. Don't feel like your new place should be picture perfect and full of new stuff. Once you have your place you can shop at discount store or thrift shops to get most of what you need.

As for food, I recommend on shopping at ethic markets and discount food stores for some great bargains on spices, many cheese types, produce and canned goods. Get family sized meat packs and package them up in meal sized portions to use throughout the week or month. Large packs of frozen veggies make eating healthy easier and inexpensive. Try not to eat out much until you are established and have replenished your savings from the move. Good luck in your city adventure!

 

Well, my mom actually help me get everything started up. Then I was on my on my own from there. I made sure that my bank account was up to a suitable amount before I moved. But I basically just shop around cheap stores like the Dollar tree or dollar generals. All the name branded items I bought before I didn't buy. I bought cheaper things and they worked just as good. You can get some used furniture and spray paint or decorate it and make it look brand new. My advice is to shop cheap and if you don't need certain items don't buy it.

 

I agree with the above posts about getting furnishings and things second hand. You can find many beautiful and quality items shopping in second hand and thrift stores. My husband and I furnished our first house this way. We even found a solid wood table and chair set that someone had left out by the curb to be picked up with the trash! All it needed was some sanding and refinishing.

Auctions are another good way to go. We were able to get a solid wood hutch for the dining room for $12.00, and an entertainment center for the living room for $20.00.

This takes more time and planning than going out and buying everything new, but the savings are tremendous. Plus, you have a year to get ready, so take advantage of the time, and use it wisely. Good luck to you both and enjoy this exciting step in your life!