Moving into your first apartment is exciting — and a little overwhelming. Whether you are a Texas Tech student getting your first off-campus place or a young professional starting fresh in Lubbock, this room-by-room checklist has everything you need to set up your new home without forgetting the essentials.
You do not need everything on day one. Start with the essentials in each room and add items as your budget allows.
Most Lubbock apartment complexes require renter's insurance, and even if yours does not, get it anyway. It is inexpensive and covers your belongings against theft, fire, and other disasters. West Texas weather can be unpredictable, and this gives you peace of mind.
West Texas dust gets everywhere. When you move in, check that your windows and doors seal properly. Replace any old weather stripping. Get a good quality air filter for your HVAC unit and change it monthly — you will be surprised how fast it fills up.
Lubbock electricity is deregulated, so you get to choose your provider. Compare rates before signing up. Water is typically handled through the city. Internet options vary by complex — ask your neighbors what provider and speed they use before committing.
Before you unpack a single box, walk through your apartment and photograph every wall, floor, appliance, and fixture. Note any existing damage on your move-in condition report. This protects your security deposit when you eventually move out. Landlords in Lubbock will hold you to it.
You do not need to buy everything brand new. Here are smart ways to set up your apartment without breaking the bank.
Lubbock's Facebook Marketplace is full of affordable furniture, especially around May and August when Texas Tech students are moving out. Couches, desks, bookshelves, and kitchen items are available for a fraction of retail.
Lubbock has several thrift stores and resale shops where you can find kitchen supplies, decor, and furniture at great prices. Goodwill, Salvation Army, and local resale shops are worth checking before buying new.
Focus your budget on the things you absolutely need: a bed, towels, toilet paper, basic kitchen items, and cleaning supplies. Everything else can wait. You do not need a fully decorated apartment on day one.
Before you buy anything, ask around. Parents, grandparents, and friends often have extra kitchen items, towels, furniture, and decor they are happy to give away. You would be surprised how much you can furnish just by asking.
Moving into your first apartment does not mean you have to carry everything yourself. At Mint Moving Co., we help Texas Tech students and young professionals move into their new places every week. Whether you need a full move from your parents' house, help getting furniture up the stairs, or just an extra set of hands on move-in day, we are here to help.
We are Lubbock's top-rated apartment movers with a 5.0-star rating and 50+ reviews. We know the apartment complexes in Lubbock inside and out — stairwells, parking situations, elevator access, and all. Our team is made up of college-educated professionals who treat your stuff like their own.
Plus, we are a U-Haul MovingHelper preferred partner, so if you rented a U-Haul and need help loading or unloading, we do that too.
Get a free quote from Mint Moving Co. and let the pros handle your apartment move. Affordable, reliable, and easy to work with.