5 Quick tips for moving out on your own
Moving out on your own for the first time is a big step. It’s exciting and scary all at once. You’re about to become independent and learn to live by yourself. Those are two very important things.
However, moving out on your own can be expensive and, at this stage in your life, you probably don’t have much money. So, here are some quick tips to make things easier.
Draw up a budget from day one
Your budgeting needs to start from the moment you decide to move out, not only once you’re living on your own. You need to know what you can afford to pay for rent and how much you need to save for furniture and appliances. Cash is going to be tight, so be careful with your numbers.
Look for a place that’s close to where you need to be
Travel costs a lot of money. So, when you’re hunting around for a new home, try to find somewhere that’s near to work or varsity (if you’re still studying). You don’t want to have to spend extra on petrol or public transport. You also don’t want to sit in traffic for ages.
Only buy what’s absolutely necessary at first
Cleaning products are important. A fridge is important. Bedding is important. Appliances like popcorn makers, waffle irons and expensive coffee machines aren’t. Those things you can accumulate for the next few years. What matters now is that you have the things you really need to use right away.
Unpack as soon as you move in
You don’t want to be sitting in a lounge filled with boxes in three months time. The longer you leave it, the harder the task will become. It’s best you unpack everything the day you move in or the weekend afterwards. It’s the only thing that will make your place start to feel like home.
Decide what’s worth spending your cash on
When you don’t have much of a budget to spend on furniture and appliances, you need to think carefully about what you put your money towards. You don’t need leather couches right away. You can deal with cheap sofas for now. But, when it comes to things like gas stoves or fridges, you should always pay a little more for the right quality.
Moving out on your own is a great experience. You simply need to make sure you do it the right way by following these five tips.