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Confessions of a Property Shopaholic (2)

Moving To Atlanta: Pandemic Pro Tips

Updated: Jan 7, 2021

2020 has been SH*T... and (lucky you) now you have to pick-up & move. Try these 5 Tips to master your move to Atlanta, find a place you love, and SAVE SOME MONEY!




Packing & moving in Atlanta is stressful... try pulling it off during the Covid Crisis.


For most of us, we're now:

  • more budget-conscious

  • struggling to get ahold of and tour Apartment communities, and

  • searching high and low for a place that suits our new need for space to live & work comfortably


My husband and I had to move across town in March - yeah, just days after everything SHUT DOWN - so I have firsthand intel on how to get through this without losing your marbles.


Wanna maintain your sanity while relocating, check out my 5 Tips below!



Schedule EVERYTHING

Coordinate any interactions you'll have on move day. I'm talking pre-planned time blocks for everything - from your truck/movers, to picking up your keys from your leasing agent, and even the pit stop at Burger King in-between. Many offices are now short-staffed, have shortened hours, and are practicing new Covid procedures - I suggest making all arrangements and planning your schedule at least 2 weeks before your move date. A little wiggle room never hurt, either!


If it's more convenient for you, I'll communicate with & tour the properties you're most interested in on your behalf- set it up here!


Landlords are Motivated, $hop Around

There's been this ugly rumor going around that rent in Atlanta is "Cheap". Sorry to break it to you guys, but that's just not true. HOWEVER, Covid has (somewhat) put the ball in apartment renters' courts and you now have the opportunity to secure a sweet deal on that unit with skyline views you've been drooling over.


Market rates may still be pretty steep, but landlords are now offering up-to 2 months rent FREE, waiving fees, and offering more flexible lease terms. These promotions will bring the Effective Rental Rate into the realm of possibility Lol. We all work hard and deserve to live like it!

Don't Know Where To Start? I'll go to bat for you - Hit me up



Procrastinate at Your Own Risk

When we moved, we said "we'll wait until we move all of our stuff" before making a store run to get our household essentials. Yes, toilet paper and even soap! We just didn't pack those things to bring, and honey we regretted it Lol. Some stores are still closing earlier as a result of Covid, so be mindful when making your move. Don't be like us, research stores in your new neighborhood ahead of time to avoid any mishaps.


I'd also recommend starting your apartment search 45-60 days before you plan to move. We all know how time-consuming the online search process is, and online leasing data is more unreliable now than before the pandemic! To further complicate things, pretty much all apartment tours must now be scheduled.


If you need a hand with your search, I'd be happy to help!



Love Thy Neighbor(hood)

Won't be long-winded here Lol, but we are in our homes now more than EVER. Picking the wrong apartment, in the wrong neighborhood has proven to lead to everything from Claustrophobia to Divorce these days. Atlanta literally has a neighborhood to suit ANY lifestyle, you just have to find it. Check out my Neighborhood Guide if you need help deciding what will fit you best!


You Have The Leverage, Use It

This Pandemic has shaken up our economy which has sparked enough fear in Landlords causing them to bend in unbelievable ways. Don't be afraid to negotiate concessions that will not only benefit you now, but also protect you in the future.


This could be:

  • the inclusion of a 30-day cancellation clause if you change your mind about your unit or neighborhood

  • Zero-down move in, to keep more $ in your pocket in case of emergencies

  • A penalty-free lease termination after so many months, or

  • a request to keep your rental rate the same if you choose to renew



We are hustling through some unprecedented times, but I'm here to help you guys secure some unprecedented deals! Have any questions about what I do or how I can make your move to Atlanta a little less stressful, schedule a FREE consultation with me when you get some time.



Talk Soon,

Court




 
 
 

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