When we decided to live nomadically, we knew we were in for an adventure - but we didn't expect our next "move" to be...across the street. 🤣
Yep, we're close to wrapping up our first furnished rental in downtown San Diego and will be heading just a few steps away to our next one the end of November. Turns out, you can still live the nomadic life - even if your next stop is within walking distance.
🏙️ Downtown Living: Every Day Feels Like A Vacation
Living in downtown San Diego has been everything we hope for and more. It has been pure magic. Ocean breezes, palm trees, and morning walks along the marina with Oz and Rocky - it's the kind of place that makes everyday life feel like a mini vacation. We can literally walk everywhere: coffee shops, restaurants, the waterfront. Hop on the trolly to explore other areas of the city. The convenience and energy here are unbeatable, and that part we absolutely love.
🏡 Lessons Learned from Our First Furnished Rental
As dreamy as the location has been, this first stop came with some important takeaways for next time:
- Ask exactly what's included in "utilities". The place was advertised as "utilities included" but we quickly found out, as we were signing the contract, that we actually will be paying a portion of the electricity, gas, and water. Not a dealbreaker, but definitely something to clarify before signing next time.
- Confirm personal space. We didn't realize the owner would be leaving all of her belongings - clothes, food, personal items - in the condo. This was never revealed until we moved in - big shock. So, we've basically been living around someone else's stuff, which makes settling in harder than expected.
- Clarify access to the property. We don't have full access to the building. We aren't able to receive mail here - which thankfully there is a GoPostal right below us, but quite an inconvenience. Also, if something breaks we don't have any building phone numbers so we have to text the owner and wait for her handle it. This became an issue when we had a flood leak in the bathroom at 1:30 in the morning and landlord is not exactly quick to respond....thankfully I heard it before a disaster occurred and was able to shut off the water.
- Better house selection = better peace of mind. Location is amazing, but we've realized that comfort, functionality, and space matter just as much. When searching for our next rental, we had a better idea of questions to ask and boxes to be checked before signing a contract.
🚚 Next Stop: Across the Street
Yep, our next move is literally across the street - because apparently we're committed to the shortest nomadic move! Won't be the first or last - that's why it's our nomadic lifestyle! But our next move does come at the busiest time for JC Designs. We have a big market the week before and another big one the week after we move. So staying organized and on top of our home life and business life is definitely key to running a business nomadically.
It's a lot - but this is exactly why we chose this lifestyle. Flexibility, adventure, and the ability to blend business and life in new places.
Thanks for following along in our journey with us - Jillann, Oz and Rocky (James too 🤣)
0 comments