my first apartment  

no matter what, you have a apartment, you are so happiness. my girlfriend and me,didn't have enough money to afford one. in china, one month salary can't buy one sq.m. so we also need work hard.

Congrats on your first apartment! I agree, you shouldn't be cleaning your new digs unless you're getting a break on the first month's rent...your time is worth something you know. If, when you take possession of the apartment, there is anything wrong with it, bring it to the attention of the property manager and have it put in writing so that you're not held accountable when you move out.

My first apartment was a very small one bedroom, too. We learned real quick that small furniture worked best and that was when I fell in love with futons. We were young and had friends stay over from time to time so having the futon, which opened to a bed, came in handy. Try to keep your counters cleared off if you can by getting small appliances that can be hung under the cabinets. This gives you more work space when cooking. When you start getting bills...utilities and things like that...get a wall calendar and note the day that that bill is due on the calendar so you can easily see it. Set up a budget so that you see where your money is going and can plan for your bills. This will also show you how much extra you have available for emergencies or a night out. You should always keep something in reserve for the unexpected unless you have family who will help you out on short notice.

Well, whether it is a 1 room studio apartment tiny space, your own or rented, it is still a home to come to after a days work or a day out under the hot sun. As there's only the 2 of you, space wouldn't be much of a problem. You can also beautify and make the place comfortable, keep it clean, neat and tidy. My husband and I bought our own apartment when we got engaged and we moved in after we got married. We don't have any kids yet so for now it's only the two of us. I also make our home comfortable (not furnishing it with luxuries) but just keeping it neat and tidy and clean so that it is a place where we can come home to and call it a home.