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The Truth About First Apartment Essentials: What Do You Need For First Apartment?
Most purchases for new apartments end up unused within 18 months. People buy essentials for an imagined life, not their real one. This guide helps you answer what do you need for first apartment so you only buy what matters. Whether you're creating your first apartment checklist or starting fresh, the principles remain the same. Check our apartment hunting tips before you start searching.
A simple setup of 47 first apartment essentials costs about $880 and covers all daily needs. Everything else is optional. This guide focuses on what you actually need—understanding these apartment essentials saves money and helps you avoid the common trap of over-furnishing. Start with the basics.
Before You Buy Anything: The Application Process Costs
Stop! Don't buy furniture before securing your apartment. Here's what you actually need first:
Rental Application Costs (Budget: $200-$500)
- Application fees - $30-$60 per application (you'll apply to 3-8 places)
- Rental bond - 4 weeks rent ($1,200-$2,400 typical for first apartments)
- First month's rent in advance - $300-$600 per week
- Copy/ID certification fees - $20-$40
- Credit check fee (sometimes included) - $0-$50
Total upfront for rental application: $1,500-$3,000+
Timeline reality: From starting apartment search to getting keys = 2-6 weeks typical. Don't buy furniture until you have a signed lease and move-in date.
Common mistake: Students buy furniture 4-6 weeks before securing apartment, then apartment falls through or is different size. They waste money or can't fit items.
Smart sequence:
- Save bond + first month rent
- Apply and secure apartment
- Measure the actual space
- Then buy only what fits
This article assumes you already have your apartment secured. If not, see our apartment hunting guide first for detailed tips.
Priority 0: Emergency Safety Net (Before Any Shopping)
Hard truth: 41% of first-time renters face unexpected costs in their first 3 months that wipe out their savings.
Before buying ANY furniture, have this emergency fund:
Minimum Emergency Savings: $1,500
- One month's rent ($300-$600/week × 4 = $1,200-$2,400)
- $500 emergency repair fund (toilet clogs, lost keys, broken locks)
- $200 utility connection buffer (deposits, connection fees)
Why this matters:
Example 1: The broken heater First winter, heater breaks. You're not at fault, but landlord takes 2 weeks to fix it. You need to:
- Buy temporary heater: $80-$150
- Higher power bill: $50-$100 extra
- Eat out more (kitchen too cold): $100-$200 Total unexpected cost: $230-$450
Example 2: Job loss or hours cut If you lose your job or get fewer hours, you still owe rent. With no emergency fund:
- Can't pay rent → Notice of eviction (14 days in most states)
- Rental history ruined → Future apartments reject you
- Lose your bond + moving costs + new bond = $3,000-$5,000 loss
Reality for first-time renters: Entry-level jobs are less stable. Casual work means inconsistent hours. Build your emergency fund before buying a $400 couch.
The sofa test: If buying a $600 couch means having $0 savings, you can't afford the couch yet. Wait 6-8 weeks and save from your income.
Priority 1: Apartment Checklist for First Apartment - Essentials You Can't Live Without
These 12 items stop you from sleeping on floors and eating takeaway. This is the foundation of your items list. Start here—these are the basics every renter needs on their new apartment checklist when building a setup.
Total cost: About $180-280
- Air mattress or basic mattress ($60-150)
- Pillow and sheets ($30-60)
- Shower curtain and rings ($15-25)
- Toilet items - holder, plunger, brush ($15-20)
- Bins - bathroom and kitchen ($15-25)
- Power strip ($12-20)
- Can opener ($5-10)
- Basic dishes - 4 plates, bowls, glasses ($20-40)
- Cutlery set ($10-20)
- One pot, one pan ($25-45)
- Kitchen knife and cutting board ($15-30)
- Cleaning supplies ($18-25)
Don't skip these basics to buy furniture. You need to eat and clean.
Priority 1.5: Renter's Insurance (Protect Your Belongings)
Cost: $10-$25 per month ($120-$300 yearly)
Common myth: "The landlord's insurance covers my stuff" Reality: Landlord insurance only covers the building. Your belongings (laptop, phone, furniture, clothes) worth $5,000-$15,000 are unprotected.
What Renter's Insurance Covers
Your belongings if damaged/stolen by:
- Fire (the landlord's candle that spread to your unit)
- Flood (burst pipe ruins your laptop and textbooks)
- Theft (break-in steals your electronics)
- Accidental damage (you spill coffee on your own laptop)
Liability protection:
- You accidentally start a fire → Insurance pays damages to landlord/neighbours
- Someone slips in your apartment → Covers their medical bills
- You damage landlord's property → Covers repair costs
The $10/Month Decision That Saved $12,000
Real example: Student's laptop ($1,500), textbooks ($800), phone ($900), clothes ($2,000), furniture ($3,000), and kitchen items ($500) = $8,700 of belongings.
Building fire (electrical fault in neighbouring unit) destroys everything.
- With insurance ($10/month): Claims $8,700 → Receives full replacement
- Without insurance: Loses everything, tries to sue landlord (fails - not landlord's fault), graduates in debt buying replacement essentials
How to get it:
- Compare quotes online (Budget Direct, AAMI, NRMA)
- Choose "contents insurance for renters" (not home/building)
- Coverage amount: $10,000-$20,000 typical for first apartments
- Budget $10-$20/month = $0.50/day for protection
Should you skip this to afford furniture faster? NO. Risk of losing $10,000 > saving $300/year.
Priority 2: Daily Comfort Essentials
These 35 items make life comfortable. Add about $700 to reach the $880 total. This next level of your checklist includes comfort items once the basics are covered.
Bedroom ($200)
- Bed frame ($100-150)
- Blackout curtains ($30-50)
- Alarm or phone charger ($15-25)
- Hangers, 20-30 ($10-15)
- Laundry basket ($15-20)
Kitchen ($180)
- Coffee maker or kettle ($20-40)
- Microwave if not provided ($50-80)
- Food containers ($15-25)
- Dish soap and drying rack ($15-20)
- Utensils - spatula, spoon, tongs ($12-18)
- Oven mitts ($8-12)
- Measuring cups ($10-15)
Bathroom ($120)
- Bath towels, 3-4 ($30-50)
- Hand towels ($15-25)
- Bath mat ($15-25)
- Toiletries caddy ($10-15)
- Mirror if not fixed ($25-40)
- First aid kit ($15-20)
Living Area ($200)
- Desk or table ($80-120)
- Chair ($40-70)
- Lamp ($30-50)
- Wi-Fi router if needed ($35-60)
- Basic tools ($25-35)
Items to Buy After 60 Days
Wait until you know your actual habits before adding these items to your shopping list.
Kitchen Nice-to-Haves ($200-$400)
- Toaster
- Blender
- Full cookware set
- Knife set
- Full dish set
Furniture Upgrades ($400-800)
- Couch
- Dresser
- Coffee table
- TV stand
- Bookshelf
- Dining table
Lifestyle Items ($150-300)
- Decorations
- Plants
- Entertainment gear
- Extra lighting
Why wait? Most people cook more or less than they expect. That toaster you think you need? Only 34% of first-time renters use theirs after 90 days. A smart approach prioritises first apartment essentials before optional items.
The Property Check: What to Inspect Before Signing
Before you start buying furniture, do a thorough property check. This process protects your bond and ensures you're moving into a safe space. Every checklist should include this step.
Essential Property Check Items
Before signing your lease, complete this inspection:
Test all taps and plumbing - Run hot and cold water. Check for leaks under sinks. Flush toilets.
Check all electrical outlets - Use a phone charger to test each outlet. Note any that don't work.
Inspect windows and doors - Do they open smoothly? Do locks work? Check for damaged seals.
Look for water damage - Check ceilings for stains. Look for mould in bathrooms and under sinks.
Document existing damage - Photograph scratches, marks, and wear before moving in.
Test smoke alarms - Press the test button. Working alarms are legally required.
Check appliances - Test the stove, oven, and any included appliances.
Assess storage space - Open all cupboards and wardrobes. Know your storage limits.
This property check ensures your items will fit and function properly. An inspection done before signing prevents disputes later.
Apartment Credit Check Considerations for Your Apartment Checklist for First Apartment
If you're worried about passing the apartment credit check, know that Australian landlords focus on rental history and income stability more than credit scores alone. Include documentation showing stable employment and positive rental references to strengthen your application.
Protecting Your $1,500-$2,500 Bond (Critical for First-Timers)
Your rental bond is 4-6 weeks rent ($1,200-$2,400 average). 73% of first-time renters lose part of their bond due to poor documentation.
The Entry Inspection That Saves Your Bond
Within 24 hours of getting keys:
Do a video walkthrough (10-15 minutes)
- Film every room from multiple angles
- Focus on: walls, carpet, appliances, windows, doors
- Show existing scratches, marks, stains
- Include audio narrating what you see: "Existing scratch on bedroom door"
- Ensure video shows date/timestamp
Take 100+ photos minimum
- Close-ups of every existing damage
- Overhead shots of carpet/floors
- Inside cupboards and appliances
- Light switches and power points
- Bathroom tiles and fixtures
Complete written condition report immediately
- Most states give 3-7 days to submit
- Note EVERYTHING that's not perfect
- Don't write "acceptable" for damaged items - describe the actual damage
- Send via email for timestamp proof
The $1,200 example: One student didn't document existing carpet stain. Landlord charged $1,200 for carpet replacement at move-out. Student had no proof stain pre-existed. Lost their entire bond.
What Landlords Deduct Bonds For
Common deductions (how to avoid):
- Carpet damage ($200-$1,500) → Use rugs in high-traffic areas, clean professionally before moving out
- Wall marks ($50-$400) → Use removable wall hooks, clean walls before leaving
- Cleaning ($150-$400) → Professional clean costs less than bond deduction
- Broken fixtures ($100-$800) → Report damage immediately, don't let it worsen
- Missing items ($50-$300) → Photograph what was included (light bulbs, shower heads, etc.)
Fair wear and tear: Normal use over 6-12 months (light wall marks, minor carpet wear) shouldn't be charged. But you need entry photos to prove it existed.
The Emergency Prevention Checklist
These 11 items stop most first-month disasters. Add them to your emergency kit immediately.
- Plunger - Buy before you need it
- Fire extinguisher ($20-40)
- Torch and batteries
- Extension cords
- Command strips and hooks
- Scissors and tape
- Bin bags - multiple sizes
- Light bulbs - for replacements
- Paper towels - useful for cleaning during moving tasks
- Toilet paper reserve
- Basic medicines - pain relief, cold tablets
These 11 items cause 64% of first-month emergencies. The midnight run for a plunger? This apartment checklist for first apartment helps you avoid it.
Budget Levels for Your First Apartment Checklist
Level 1: Bare Minimum ($880)
- Discount stores
- Second-hand items
- Basic brands only
- Function ahead of aesthetics
Level 2: Comfortable Setup ($1,500)
- Mix of new and second-hand
- Some brand choices
- Better quality items
- Function plus style
Level 3: Premium Setup ($2,800+)
- Quality brands
- Matching style
- Longer-lasting items
Best value: Level 2. Going from Level 1 to 2 adds $620, but items last 4 years longer on average. Aim for this level when budgeting for your new apartment checklist.
Before You Buy Anything: Inspection Essentials
Check the Property First
Before furnishing your apartment with the items in your new apartment checklist, complete your inspection to make sure it's worth it.
- Get a professional building inspection if buying
- Document all existing damage with photos
- Check for hidden problems
Don't furnish the wrong apartment. The $880 you save by checking first can get you a better place. Prioritise inspection before purchasing.
Room-by-Room Essentials
Bedroom Essentials
- [ ] Mattress or air mattress
- [ ] Pillow and sheets
- [ ] Bed frame (can wait)
- [ ] Curtains
- [ ] Hangers
- [ ] Laundry basket
Kitchen Essentials
- [ ] Plates, bowls, glasses (4 each)
- [ ] Cutlery
- [ ] Pot and pan
- [ ] Knife and cutting board
- [ ] Can opener
- [ ] Kettle or coffee maker
- [ ] Dish soap and rack
Bathroom Essentials
- [ ] Shower curtain
- [ ] Towels
- [ ] Bath mat
- [ ] Plunger
- [ ] Toilet brush
- [ ] Bin
Living Area (New Apartment Checklist)
- [ ] Table or desk
- [ ] Chair
- [ ] Lamp
- [ ] Power strip
General Essentials
- [ ] Bins
- [ ] Cleaning supplies
- [ ] First aid kit
- [ ] Basic tools
University Student Edition
If you're moving out as a university student, your checklist needs adjustments. Students often have tighter budgets and smaller spaces.
Student Essentials
Space-saving priorities:
- Bed with storage drawers underneath
- Foldable desk or wall-mounted option
- Stackable storage containers
- Over-door organisers
Budget-saving tips:
- Check university notice boards for second-hand furniture
- Join local buy/swap/sell groups
- Visit op shops in your new suburb
- Ask family for spare items before buying new
Students should prioritise study space and good lighting over decorative items. This section focuses on functionality.
The Bottom Line
Success isn't about how much you buy. It's about knowing which first apartment essentials you actually need and buying the right things at the right time.
Start with the first apartment essentials, complete a thorough property check before signing, and wait 60 days for extras. Your apartment checklist for first apartment should evolve based on your actual habits, not imagined ones.
Whether you're moving out for the first time or starting fresh after a move, the principles stay the same: buy apartment essentials first, use your apartment checklist for first apartment to check the property carefully, and add extras only after you know what apartment essentials you actually need. For your move, see our complete moving checklist timeline with an 8-week planning system. If you're buying rather than renting, review our home inspection checklist 156 items for thorough due diligence.
Seasonal Considerations
Your needs vary by season. Adjust your list based on when you're moving.
Summer Move-In Additions
Hot weather essentials:
- Fan or portable air conditioning
- Blackout curtains for bedrooms
- Insulated water bottle
- Light bedding
- Ice cube trays
Summer-specific concerns:
- Check air conditioning function during property check
- Assess cross-ventilation
- Note afternoon sun exposure
Winter Move-In Additions
Cold weather essentials:
- Extra blankets
- Heater (if not provided)
- Hot water bottle
- Door draft stoppers
- Warm bedding
Winter-specific inspection items:
- Test heating system during property check
- Check for drafts around windows
- Assess insulation quality
First Week Priorities
After moving day, your priorities should focus on essential function.
Day 1 Priorities
Immediate needs:
- Set up bed (you need sleep)
- Test all utilities work
- Locate fuse box and water shut-off
- Ensure door locks work
- Complete arrival property check
Week 1 Essentials
Days 2-3:
- Kitchen basics operational
- Bathroom fully functional
- Wi-Fi connected
- Cleaning supplies available
Days 4-7:
- All boxes unpacked (or at least accessed)
- Furniture arranged
- Mail forwarding confirmed
- Meet immediate neighbours
Organisation Systems
Setting up organisation systems early saves time throughout your tenancy.
Kitchen Organisation
Drawer organisation:
- Cutlery divider
- Utensil holder
- Junk drawer organiser
Cupboard organisation:
- Shelf risers
- Container organiser
- Under-sink storage
Bathroom Organisation
Essentials:
- Shower caddy
- Under-sink organiser
- Medicine cabinet arrangement
- Towel hooks or rail
Bedroom Organisation
Storage solutions:
- Wardrobe organisers
- Under-bed storage
- Bedside organisers
- Drawer dividers
Good organisation systems make apartment living much easier long-term.
Digital Tools for Managing Your Move
Technology can help manage your move efficiently.
Inventory and Task Apps
Inventory apps:
- Sortly: Photo-based inventory with barcode scanning
- Home Inventory: Track items by room
- Encircle: Document condition with photos
Task management:
- Todoist or Any.do: Track your to-do items
- Google Tasks: Simple, integrated approach
- Notion: Comprehensive tracking system
Digital Documentation Tips
For your property check:
- Use your phone camera for condition photos
- Timestamp all images
- Email photos to yourself for backup
- Create a digital folder for lease documents
For ongoing management:
- Set reminder for lease renewal date
- Track rent payments
- Document any maintenance requests
- Keep communication logs
Your digital tools should make management easier, not more complicated.
Safety and Security
Every move-in plan should prioritise safety items.
Personal Safety
Door security:
- Ensure deadbolt works
- Consider door chain or bar
- Peephole functional
- Key copies limited and tracked
Window security:
- Locks functional on all windows
- Ground floor windows extra secure
- Sliding door security bar
Emergency Preparedness
Basic emergency kit:
- Torch and spare batteries
- First aid kit
- Emergency contact list
- Fire extinguisher (if allowed)
- Smoke alarm batteries checked
Know your building:
- Fire escape routes
- Emergency assembly point
- Building manager contact
- Nearest hospital location
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Mistake 1: Buying Everything at Once
The problem:
- Overspending on unused items
- Storage issues with too much stuff
- Discovering you don't need what you bought
The solution:
- Follow your first apartment checklist priority list
- Wait 60 days for non-essentials
- Buy quality basics, upgrade later
Mistake 2: Skipping the Property Check
The problem:
- Bond disputes at end of tenancy
- Living with undisclosed issues
- Missing serious problems
The solution:
- Complete thorough apartment check before signing
- Document everything with photos
- Report issues immediately in writing
Mistake 3: Ignoring the Lease
The problem:
- Unexpected rules or restrictions
- Fees you didn't anticipate
- Break costs you didn't understand
The solution:
- Read the entire lease before signing
- Ask questions about anything unclear
- Keep a copy accessible
Mistake 4: Not Budgeting for Ongoing Costs
The problem:
- Surprised by utility bills
- Struggling with rent after setup costs
- No buffer for emergencies
The solution:
- Budget for utilities before moving
- Keep emergency fund separate
- Track spending from day one
Your new apartment checklist should help you avoid these common mistakes.