Trying to get an idea on Utilities (apartment complexes, to rent)

[WornOutBoots]

Hello, hello. I'm moving down from Ohio in with someone I've known for a while. It's a first move out for both of us, actually.

I'm trying to run the numbers, and I'd like to get an idea of what the utilities are giong to run us. Electric, water, phone, etc. And if you know how much it's going to cost to get the stuff turned on, that would be fantastic.

Thanks.

[irish2]

Hi.

It's really hard to answer that question, without knowing where you are going to live...the square footage, etc. A bigger house would take more to heat and cool. Then if the house has an energy package with thermal windows, heat pump, etc, your savings would be even better. You did not mention whether you were going to rent an apartment, house, mobile home...it all makes a difference. Some apartment complexes can give you an estimate of what it costs for the expenses you are concerned with. Some apartments even include water in the rent.

I've done a lot of moving over the years (military family) and have found that the deposits vary. Some times if you have good credit, they will wave the deposit...sometimes they prorate the deposit over a few months....and sometimes utility companies have a program where you pay the same every month, so, you know what the payment will be...then they adjust.

The bottom line is I don't think anyone could possibly give you an answer that would help you figure out a budget.

Once you find a place to live....then you can call the utility and phone companies and ask about depositis, programs, special promotions, etc. That's the only way you will really know how much it will cost you.