Whether you’re 18, 20 or 30 – there’ll probably come a time in your life when you decide to move out of your parents’ home and go alone in the big wide world. Regardless of when it happens, or why, you’ll probably feel the same excitement and nerves in equal measure. You’re about to embark on a wonderful journey. Here are a few tips on how to prepare yourself for that day.

Consider your decision to move

There are many reasons to move out – maybe it’s your decision, maybe it’s someone else’s or maybe it’s just time. No matter why you’re moving, think about it calmly. Are you ready to live independently? What are your options? And if it’s your decision are you moving out for the right reasons? Don’t make a rash decision that could see you needing to move back home again soon. Make sure you consider all the avenues available to you.

Find the right place

Whether you’re buying, sharing or renting, you’ll need to work out what kind of property best suits you and your lifestyle. Can you live alone or is a flat share the best option? What can you afford? And where? Start your search online. Don’t stop there, you can’t tell everything from photos, so make sure you attend several open houses to get a sense of what your budget really buys you.

Finances

Leaving home is expensive. It doesn’t take long for bad budgeting to lead to financial hardship, so plan ahead. Always pay any bills and rent on time to avoid a bad credit rating. Don’t forget when setting up or moving house that there are also establishment fees such as a rental bond, internet connection fees, as well as the costs of buying bedroom furniture or equipping a kitchen. No matter how much, or how little money you have, managing your money well is the best foundation to living independently.

Chores

Moving out gives you independence, freedom and adventure, but it all comes with added responsibilities. Try to keep on top of the chores like cleaning, cooking, laundry and taking the bins out. You don’t want to fall into the cliché of being a typical first time out of home slob.

Communicate

Communication is the key to any relationship and it’s no different for your flatmates. Avoid conflict by setting ground rules, being open and respecting others’ opinions. Living independently for the first time, you’ll face your share of surprises, including the challenges of living with others. Remember you’re not alone, and work on expressing how you’re feeling to avoid misunderstandings.

Keep in touch

No matter how old you are, if it’s your first time out of home your parents or guardians will probably miss you. Give them a call from time to time or go home for a meal. Just try not to land on the doorstep with the washing too often.

Hide a spare key

There’s nothing worse than the surprise of an after-hours call out fee for a locksmith, so give someone you trust a spare key to your house. Don’t hide it in the garden.