The True Costs Of Moving Into An Apartment

Your apartment search is over and you’ve settled on a location in Orlando you’d like to call home. Fantastic! Now’s the time to pull out your checkbook and make sure you have your finances in order for the big moving day. Do watch out though; moving can cost a little more than you think.

There are hidden, or at least unexpected, expenses that can come along with getting a new Orlando apartment.

Expense you might not have budgeted for

Some of the extra expenses you’re likely to incur as you make preparations to settle into your Orlando apartment include:

1. Rental deposit

Expect to pay at least one month in advance as a rental security deposit. Do not, however, be surprised if your landlord informs you the policy is two or three months in advance. This form of deposit is standard to protect landlords from renters that might try to move out without notice.

2. Security deposit

In addition to a rental deposit fee, plan on paying a security deposit to cover the costs of damage inside an Orlando apartment home. Security deposits can range a bit, but most are equal to one month’s rent.

3. Pet deposits

If you plan on living in your Orlando apartment with a cat or dog, you’ll likely have to pay an extra security deposit. Like a regular deposit, this is refundable at the end of your lease – provided Fido doesn’t do any damage.

4. Application fees

Expect to pay a little something for the time and effort a prospective landlord will have to take to look at your background. It’s common for landlords to pass on the costs of credit and criminal checks. Don’t be alarmed if you’re assessed a fee – even if you don’t get an apartment. This is standard practice.

5. Move-in fee

Some Orlando apartments might charge you for the act of moving in. In some buildings you have to reserve a freight elevator and this requires a deposit in case you damage anything while moving. Don’t expect to pay too much for this one, but it is an extra expense you should be prepared for.

6. Utility fees

Unless utilities are included with the rent, you’re probably going to need deposits for your electric, phone, internet, cable and even trash pickup service. The amounts involved can vary greatly. In some cases, they will even be waived if your credit is good enough. Actual turn on fees, however, are likely to be assessed whether you need a deposit or not.

Moving into an Orlando apartment can be a costly venture. If you plan for the “hidden expenses,” you won’t be caught off guard. Don’t worry though, most people don’t get hit with every possible fee and some can even be avoided when good credit is involved.