With a vast amount of apartment condominiums being developed across metro Atlanta, ARPIN has experienced tremendous growth of local condo moves. Moving to an apartment building usually requires prior planning due to strict moving rules in most condominiums. Your available service elevator time will most likely be restricted to 1 or 2 hours. Depending on your move size, it might be wise to get a 3 man crew if moving 2+ bedrooms to ensure no elevator delays. Also, be careful not to book both elevators at the same time, if moving from an apartment or allow enough time for loading and drive time to your new apartment.

In most cases use of a 2 man crew with a 18'-22' truck would be sufficient to move your 1-2 bedroom apartment in one load, however, 3+ bedroom units should be moved with 3-4 movers and a 24'-26' moving van.

As Smooth as Possible

Perhaps you have accepted a company transfer or you're making a career change. Maybe you're ready to retire. For whatever reason, you've decided to relocate and you're going to move into an apartment. You're in good company. Approximately 40 million Americans find apartment living a comfortable and affordable alternative to home ownership.

We have prepared this booklet to answer your questions and assist you in planning your move. Here you'll find information on:

* When is a good time to move
* Finding a suitable apartment
* Apartment comparison checklist
* Examining your lease
* Giving notice and recovering your deposit
* Enlisting professional services
* Your new home

Our goal is to help you save time and expense — and make your move as smooth as possible.

When is a Good Time to Move?

Your relocation can go more smoothly if you understand how timing affects it.

* If you are moving into a university town, you'll have more apartments to choose from in the summer. However, summer is also the time of year most families relocate, since school is not in session.
* The best time to rent in urban areas varies. People tend to stay put during the November-December holiday season, and vacancies may be fewer as a result. By the same token, there may not be as much competition for that nice apartment that occasionally becomes available during the holidays.
* In late April, weather conditions are usually moderate and you can beat the hectic summer moving season.

Ultimately, the best time to move can depend on a number of factors, some of which may be beyond your control. In any case, your local ARPIN agent can advise you on the timing advantages for moving into a community.

Finding a Suitable Apartment

From basic living requirements to amenities, there are many variables to consider when searching for an apartment. It's wise to get started early and do some "comparison shopping."

Visit several locations and weigh the things you like or dislike about each. Knock on doors and introduce yourself. Are the neighbors friendly? What do they say about the way the apartment is managed? Do they have any comments about noise?

When you find that perfect apartment, be ready to act. Have your checkbook, proof of income, resume, references and credit report ready to show the landlord. Why risk losing that dream apartment simply because you aren't prepared?

And remember, the landlord's impression of you — influenced by such things as your manner, punctuality and appearance — can have a big impact on your ability to reach a favorable agreement.

Examine Your Lease

When you have found the apartment you want, you will most likely be required to sign a lease, a legally binding written agreement between you (the lessee) and the landlord (the leaser).

Leases are usually standard forms, but they can be amended if changes are written on the document and both parties add their initials. Remember: If an agreement isn't in writing, you have no proof to back you up in the event of a dispute.

Included in the lease should be a detailed description of the condition of each room. Note any damaged areas or items in disrepair. Get the landlord to agree, in writing, to make needed repairs before you sign the lease or pay a deposit.

It's important to read your lease very carefully. Make a note of anything you don't understand, and don't hesitate to ask questions. Never sign a lease with blanks that are to be filled in later. If you have doubts, consult an attorney.

Giving Notice

If you have a month-to-month rental agreement, notify your landlord in writing at least 30 days before you move. If your lease is up, you don't have to give advance notice — but it's a good idea. The landlord will need to find another renter and will appreciate your courtesy. Maintaining a good relationship with your landlord is always in your favor, especially when you vacate.

Recovering Your Security Deposit

Your security deposit can be as much as one month's rent, or more. Obviously, you'll want to do everything you can to ensure that the deposit is returned to you.

As a rule, your security deposit should be refunded within 30 days after you vacate. The landlord is not allowed to deduct for normal wear and tear, nor refuse to refund without a reason.

A good way to avoid damage that can occur in the process of vacating is to enlist the services of a reputable mover. Your ARPIN agent, for example, carries insurance in the unlikely event that the apartment is damaged while you are moving out.

Enlisting Professional Moving Services

Now that you've found an apartment, it's time to plan an efficient relocation to your new home. Who will move you? How much will it cost? What special arrangements must be made? And how should you handle all the little details?

It's advisable to contact a professional mover at least six weeks before you intend to move. Obviously, we hope you'll contact your local ARPIN agent. Look in the Yellow Pages under moving, or you can find a geographic listing of all ARPIN agents on our "Find an Agent" page.

Your ARPIN agent will provide you with a free written estimate of the total cost of your move. For more information on budgeting during your move, review the "How to Stretch Your Moving Budget." It's loaded with practical advice and easy-to-use tips that will save you money. If your move is job-related, you can learn more about tax deductions in the section: "How To Deduct Moving From Your Taxes."

Your New Home

Once you arrive at your new apartment, all your planning and preparation will have paid off. Although there'll be some "settling in" to do, the new place will soon begin to feel like home. And you'll take comfort in knowing that all the little things, as well as the big things, were handled well. You chose ARPIN, and you made a smooth move.

Remember - communication is key when planning a smooth-move!

GET A QUOTE >> or contact a relocation specialists at (678) 253-1149