Hi I agree with Liz. Do not go to the goodwill for furniture. Not only do you have to worry about bed bugs but cock roaches to. I know someone that bought a couch from there and ended up infested with cock roaches no fun.

Find a job first. Most apartments want to know where you work and a lot of times you have to show your paycheck stubs to prove that you can afford the place.

If you are going to move in with your boyfriend it does sound silly to put into writing who will pay what but it will save a lot of arguments later.

Also keep in mind not only rent, gas, electrical but money to take your pets to the vet food for you and your pets then there is cell phone clothes etc. it adds up. Just think for a minute about the cleaning supplies you need. Your cats litter etc

Make a list or a budget of everything. Medical dental food rent etc.

Has for a car. Wait till the end of the year. Like on December 31st a lot of dealership are eager to move cars. We got our best deal on December 31st

Good luck