A divorce is both an end and a beginning. It is a chance to change things up and have things your way. Here is a guide on the top things you will need to think about and prepare for.
Top 5 things you need for apartment living
- If you are looking for an apartment in the Santa Rosa area you will first want to understand your budget. The general rule of thumb is not to spend more than 30% of your gross monthly income on housing. So, if you are earning $6,000 a month, that’s $1,800 a month for rent. You can also divide your annual income by 40 to figure this out. So, if you make $220,000 a year, then $5,500 each month can be allocated for rent.
- One thing to consider is location. If you are on a budget you will want to limit the amount you have to spend on your car and fuel. If the apartment is close to you job you may be able to walk or bike. You may also want to consider using public transport such as the the bus or the Smart Train.
- Make your apartment your home. You can do this by painting the walls colors that make you feel good. A fresh coat of paint makes a space feel new. You can also buy things like rugs, artwork and plants that will give the room some color, texture and life.
- Remember to get the essentials for apartment living. Obviously you’ll need a bed, couch, dresser, mirror and other furniture. Some apartments do not have the appliances you think they will such as a dishwasher, microwave or refrigerator, so check with the rental agent about those.But you will also want to have on hand:
- A shower curtain if needed
- A pad of paper, pens and markers
- Towels, bath mat and hand soap
- Dish soap, sink sponge and kitchen towels
- Clothes hangers and laundry basket
- Food storage containers, cooking utensils
- A tool kit that has a hammer and picture-hanging nails
- Tape, a scissors, batteries, light bulbs for any lamps
- Cleaning supplies, paper towels, trash bags and rags
- Vacuum and broom
- First aid kit with bandages and antibacterial salve
5. If you are worried about being lonely and your schedule allows, consider a pet. There are many options from a fish to a finch, to a cat or dog. If you don’t want to care for a pet you might consider a bird feeder outside your window or on a porch or balcony. A pet is something that will make your apartment feel like home and give you something to take your mind off of things for a while.
A new apartment is a new lease on life. It is an opportunity to grow roots and rise to into self-discovery. Try to embrace the newness of it all. As with every beginning, wonderful things are possible.
