Making the leap to move out and live on your own for the first time is a big decision that requires plenty of contemplating, planning, budgeting, and more. As much as we all wish that the process could be done with the snap of a finger, it, unfortunately, takes a bit of grunt work — this doesn’t mean it is impossible, however!
If you are living with your parents and have dreams of having your own place, or someone that is ready to live independently, here are seven questions to ask yourself before you decide.
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1. Can I Afford a Move In the First Place? A move isn’t just about having enough money to live on a monthly basis, and it’s important to remind yourself that part of the moving process is making sure you have enough money saved to afford a move in the first place. The time away from work, potentially hiring movers, transportation costs, security deposits, etc., are all expenses that you will likely have to pay for before you even make it to your new place. Before you consider looking for a new location or shopping around for apartment listings, do some research on how much money you will need for your move and make a proper budget to gauge if a move is possible for you right now.
2. Where Do I Want to Live? As you entertain the possibility of living on your own, you’ll want to consider the location in relation to your job and places of interest, such as restaurants, entertainment spots (movie theaters, museums), and even religious places of worship. You don’t want to have to make long commutes to your job or even places you need like the grocery store or a doctor’s office. Additionally, you want to make sure your potential new location is safe. While places with low rent are desirable, you want to make sure it is in a safe area. Don’t settle for a dangerous location just to save a couple hundred dollars a month because ultimately, the stress and potential dangers you may endure aren’t worth it.
3. What is My Budget? Once you figure out any pre-moving costs, the next important step is to calculate your monthly budget. Get a binder, notebook, or use a Word Doc on your computer to create a list of everything you spend and what needs to be paid each month, along with your monthly income. Include things like a phone bill, car payment, insurance payment, gas, groceries, student loans, electricity, water, etc. Add up the total amount that you either currently pay or estimate that you will pay, then deduct this from your monthly income. Do you have enough cushion room to relax or are you cutting it too close?
4. Will I Need Moving Help? Who Should I Ask? For the move, it is important to ensure you don’t do everything on your own because it’s hard and stressful (though not impossible). Consider either asking friends or family for help or think about hiring professional movers! Friends and family can help you carry big boxes in and out of your new place, help transport bulky items, and assist with decorating and making sure everything has a place. Hiring professional movers is a huge help when planning a move. For one, you don’t have to worry about depending on others for help and you don’t have to break your back in the process. Evaluate your budget and the availability of others to see if hiring movers is right for you!
5. Will I Have the Means to Furnish My Place? Sure, living on your own is great, but what happens when you get to your beautiful new apartment and don’t have anything but moving boxes to fill it? Having the means to furnish your place, whether with your own furniture from a prior residence or new items you want is an absolute necessity. If you are starting from scratch, make sure you have enough money to get furniture (like a bed, couch, desk, table, etc.).
6. Should I Consider a Roommate? Living independently means more privacy, more freedom, and setting your own rules and boundaries. However, living on your own means you are fully responsible for your rent and utilities, which can be hard for someone who is just starting to live by themselves. On the contrary, living with a roommate can make paying rent easier, as you are sharing the bill with someone else. Additionally, having a roommate can make you feel better, emotionally, about the transition to adulthood — especially if your roommate is someone you know. Take time to weigh the pros and cons of having a roommate to determine if the decision is right for you.
7. Should I Get a Pet? Having a pet, especially while you’re in school, can seem like a great idea, especially if you are lonely or deal with anxiety or depression. One of the most important things you have to consider is how much time you will really be able to dedicate to your pet. You’ll need to feed them regularly, clean up after them when they have accidents, and simply spend some time with them in order to establish a quality, loving relationship. Additionally, you’ll have to purchase all the necessary supplies to ensure they’ll be thoroughly cared for. Medical care is also a must, and vaccinations and exams are essential in ensuring that your pet is happy and healthy.
There are a lot of things to evaluate and consider before living on your own, such as financial stability, your budget, location, pets, roommates, and more. If you are considering moving, just remember to weigh all of your options and make the best decision for your mind, heart, and wallet.
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