We’re all familiar with the phrase “time flies when you’re having fun” and that is especially true in your college years. It may feel like just yesterday you were full of butterflies, ready to move into your new apartment, but as the end of your lease approaches, it is important to get prepared for moving out. Whether you’re graduating from the University of Central Florida, or relocating around Orlando, moving out can be an exciting, yet stressful time. We’re here to help you prioritize your tasks before dropping off your keys to your landlord.
Review Your Lease
As soon as you begin thinking about moving out of your UCF apartment, be sure to refer back to the move-out guidelines found in your lease. If your copy is lost somewhere in your emails, it is time for a quick call to your leasing company to request a copy for review. This will ensure that you’re aware of all necessary steps you will need to take before moving out. Take your time and familiarize yourself with the specifics regarding how much notice to give, cleaning responsibilities, and all other necessary protocols. Leases vary from apartment to apartment in Orlando, so make sure to have a good understanding of important dates and details in yours!
Pro Tip: Don’t wait until the last minute to start reviewing your move-out obligations! Allow yourself at least 2 months in advance to research and review your lease terms.
Make a Repair Plan for Existing Damages
Take a look around your student apartment and prepare a list of what areas need a maintenance repair. Be sure to do this before your apartment agents walk through for their final inspection, as they do not want any surprises! Some things to take note of are any chipped paint, holes from drilling in decorations, or something as simple as burnt-out light bulbs. Also, be sure to touch base with your complex in regard to items they will fix, such as any plumbing or electrical issues.
Declutter and Pack Up
As your move-out day creeps closer, it’s time to start figuring out what you’re taking with you, what needs to go, and how you’re going to manage getting it all together. Try breaking these activities into smaller pieces to avoid overwhelming yourself as the big day approaches...
Toss Belongings You Don’t Need
Over time, things begin to accumulate, and odds are you might be left with a lot of unnecessary items by the time you’re ready to move out. Designate a day to sort through your areas of living, such as your bedroom, kitchen, and bathroom, and decide what you want to carry on with you to your next home. Remember that everything must be moved out when you do so don’t be afraid to get rid of things you know aren’t needed. Items you aren’t bringing with you can be tossed in the trash or donated to local charities and friends.
Organize and Get Packed
After getting rid of all your miscellaneous items, it’s time to get organized and
prepare for your next move. I’ve found the best way for a seamless transition into a new home is by prioritizing organization while moving out. So, grab your label-maker and head to the store to start prepping. Remember to pick up boxes in a variety of different sizes. This way, you will be able to designate containers to specific items and ensure there is a place for everything. Consider using larger boxes for high volume items, such as your clothes or shoes, and smaller boxes for fragile, or more delicate items, such as your kitchenware and toiletries.
When you’re packing up your things, there will be items that require additional support. Fragile items, such as dishes, kitchen glasses, mirrors, and anything else breakable will need to be wrapped to ensure safety. Try using alternatives to bubble wrap, such as old newspapers or magazines, as a cheaper way to pack your things.
Time to Get Cleaning
After everything is packed and you’ve emptied rooms as much as possible, the dreaded deep-cleaning process begins. This process is more than your usual spring cleaning. Remember that vacuum you tucked away in your laundry room? It’s time to break it back out for a final use. Consider moving all of your boxes to a specific area to allow yourself the space needed to get in all of the nooks and crannies. If you’re like me, and you have roommates, break up the cleaning responsibilities in the shared spaces. Someone can take charge in dusting and vacuuming, and another for wiping down the counters and refrigerator, to make the cleaning process as efficient as possible.
It is possible that residents aren’t responsible for the entirety of the cleaning process so be sure to clarify with your apartment management what needs to be done so you don’t get fined.
Do the Final Walk-Through
After you’re all packed and the apartment has been cleaned, request a final walk-through with a member of your apartment’s management. This way, you will be able to attend to any issues before it's too late. Nothing is worse than having charges pop up for what would’ve been an easy fix!
After that, when you’re confident in the way you’re leaving your apartment, we recommend taking some photos for documentation. Be sure that you’re satisfied with the condition it's in so you will have no surprises when you get your bill. Then you will be good to go and can hand over your keys! It is officially time for the next chapter in your home journey!
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