Before I left FSU, I asked a visiting filmmaker from LA really important questions. Not about directing or producing, or how to get my first job, but about the basic stuff of life. Like how much is a gallon of milk? How do I find the cheapest apartment? Where do I park?

If you're anything like me, when you first arrive in Los Angeles out of film school you'll be completely overwhelmed. Cars, parking, apartments, stores, banks, maps, freeways... it's too much to take in. Here's some of what I've learned after being here for 5 long years. I hope it helps.

APARTMENTS
One of the joys of LA living is you needn't be burdened with the hassle of actually OWNING your own place. Unless you're phenomenally wealthy, or you have a rich uncle who likes you a lot. Since 9 out of 10 people who live in Southern California don't make enough money to qualify for a median priced home (one that costs more than $510,000), you're in the majority. You're gonna rent.

1. No kidding, the best way to find a place to rent is by DRIVING AROUND AND FINDING "FOR RENT" SIGNS.

Everybody's renting all the time. The turnover rate is extremely high. Just figure out what you need (most likely a 2-bedroom apartment for you and a roommate) and get a little notepad to write down addresses and phone numbers.

2. Depending on where you're from, RENT WILL COST 2 TO 3 TIMES AS MUCH as you're used to.

There's no way to get around it. You paid $400 a month? Get ready for $1000 a month. Want a 2-bedroom? That'll be around $1500. A house? More than $2000 a month. And when you move in, you'll need to pay a Security Deposit, which most of the time is first and last month's rent.

3. Amenities are RARELY INCLUDED.

When I first arrived at my apartment, there was a big space in the kitchen where the refrigerator was supposed to go. Except there was no refrigerator. I could either buy one or (get this) RENT ONE. What??? RENT a fridge? Yup. And don't expect there to be a washer and drier either.

4. Utlities DON'T COME BUNDLED WITH RENT.

Everything's piecemeal. Electric, Gas, Water, Sewage, Garbage, Phone hookup, Phone, Cable hookup, Cable, Internet hookup, Internet, Cell Phone, Renter's Insurance, Parking, Storage. It adds up.

5. FOCUS ON THE ROAD AHEAD, not on these bumps along the way.

I know it all sounds a bit negative, but this is information that needs to be said. Don't give up. You can make it!

Next time, I'll post information about LOCATIONS in LA. See you then!