So you’ve finally moved into your new place (which you probably found on DDA). Boxes are overflowing with your half unpacked life, the refrigerator still smells like cleaning supplies and the walls are so bare they resemble the inside of an eggshell.

What can you do to make it feel more like home? (Besides the obvious unpacking, grocery shopping, and decorating that all spells WORK).

Here’s five ways to kill two birds at once: procrastination and nesting.

• Take a long—like actually long—walk around the neighborhood. It’s the best way to run into your abutting neighbors, and you’re going to want to know what their about. Are they nosey or noise sensitive? Do they throw massive parties? Could you borrow a cup of sugar from them? Plus, you’ll get to see the other colorful characters of the area, and you’ll find the closet coffee shop for the next morning.

• Pull out your laptop and do some online shopping—this is a great way to put off late night unpacking AND you can find cool house stuff online. Best of all: there’s ALWAYS a sale online. If you wanna get a hipster look for your home look into Urban Outfitters and Anthropology’s house-wares. For the fancier type try out West Elm. For everyday stuff Bed, Bath and Beyond works.

• Go on a public transportation adventure, because—let’s face it—if you’re new to an area its almost a guarantee you’ll get lost. Try to do this before you’re first day of work. This will save you from becoming known as the girl or guy who was Late On Their First Day. Embarrassment Life Saver.

• Check out a neighborhood thrift store (or find one during your metro adventure) and pick up some funky looking records. Even if you don’t have a record player they make fantastic—and cheap—wall décor. It’s a great way to add a touch of new to you, and naked walls.

• During your neighborhood stroll you probably discovered the local liquor store—or two—buy some mid grade alcohol, a few limes, a couple of mixers, and a bag of Doritos and invite your friends over for an unpacking/sitting on the floor party. You might not have food in your fridge but you can have fun mixed drinks and nothing says adult life like a cocktail party.

But first, you’re going to need that apartment. So visit DDA and start looking for
your new home today!