I believe the biggest shock (or maybe the 2nd biggest) for me when I got married was the cost of paying for my own stuff. Mom and dad pretty much helped with the car insurance, groceries, and car payment before marriage, but afterward, I was stuck on my own. Suddenly it was that "responsibility" thing slapping me in the face, telling me to grow up. The cost for everything nearly doubled, which meant I had to work double-time to make up for the difference.
One of the things I never realized I needed, but I’m glad my wife stressed buying, was renter’s insurance. I believed that if anything happened to our quaint little apartment, my losses would be covered under the owner’s liability insurance, and my goods would be replaced with theirs.
THIS IS FALSE! If you don’t know this, learn it now. You have no right to recover for your lost stuff. This is especially important, if you’re like some folks I know, if you rent and you’re the type of individual who likes to acquire high-dollar electronics. Remember, if anything happens to your stuff, you’re on the hook for it’s replacement. Just think about the expense you’ll have, and if you’re not sure how much it’ll cost then do this simple routine: count every article of clothing and multiply by $25; count all your furniture and assuming it’s in good shape (no Goodwill specials) figure about $2,000; look at all your electronics (computer, TV, stereo, DVD, VCR, Cable/Satellite box, everything), ask what it cost to purchase, subtract $15; look at all your personal stuff (cologne, toothpaste, etc) figure $300 (high); look at your plates, silverware, everything in the kitchen, dining room, and bath, figure $1,000 or more. You’re starting to get the idea. You have to replace everything, with your own money.
Most people think, "it’s not going to happen to us." You’re probably right. Statistically you’re probably more likely to get into a car accident and seriously injure yourself (you do have the proper coverage, right?). Why run the risk though? I know that I could never afforded the expense to replace all my stuff. Renter’s insurance is cheap (we paid about $10 per month). GET IT NOW!!!
