Moving Out of Your Parent's House? 8 Things You Must Do
By Paula Owen
Moving out of your parents' house and living on your own may sound fun -- but it's actually a lot of hard work. If possible, you shouldn't do it on a whim. A lot of planning should go into this life-changing move. Here are the eight most important steps in living solo:
1. Register your cash.
Make sure that your finances are solid. Come clean with what you have and what you don't. You should have enough to cover your estimated monthly expenses and, perhaps, at least $100 to $200 left over to add to your savings. Ideally, you should have at least three months' worth of funds ready. Also, keep in mind that many places for rent require you to make a safety deposit before you're awarded the lease.
2. Address your living space.
Since you're just starting out, you won't be able to afford a posh condo yet. But that doesn't mean you have to settle for a decrepit hovel. It's most practical for you to find a place that's close to where you work so you won't spend much for transportation. You could also share an apartment, condo unit, or house with your friends or workmates. Just make sure the location you choose is safe and clean. It's fine to spend more in order to live hassle-free in a good neighborhood.
3. Inspect the contract carefully.
Read the lease that the landlord or building administrator gives you. If possible, you can request that the rent be "locked." This means that there will be no yearly rent increases imposed. Requests are more likely to be granted when you inform the landlord that you're planning to stay long-term. Take note of the other stipulations of your lease to be sure that you're getting a fair deal. Know whom you can call for repairs and other concerns.
4. Ensure your safety.
Inspect the interiors of your place and make sure that there are no safety hazards such as faulty electrical wiring, iffy locks, and flammable substances. Check your water pipes for leaks and make sure the plumbing is in order. Then, make sure that your windows are screened to keep out mosquitoes and other pests.
5. Mind your health.
Going solo means there won't be anyone who can immediately come to your rescue in case you get sick. So, for starters, don't neglect your health. Eat nutritious meals, get enough sleep, and take vitamins. Invest in a first aid kit and over-the-counter medicine that can give you much-needed relief when you're sick.
6. Stock up on essentials.
Have a stash of ready-to-eat food for days when you're too tired to cook or buy food. You should also have a few bars of soap, as well as an extra bottle of shampoo and a tube of toothpaste. You should likewise never run out of sanitary napkins. You will need these reserve supplies in case of emergencies such as storms or when you're unable to leave your place.
7. Get your keys in place.
Leave an extra pair of your house keys at your office or leave them with a trusted friend or family member. Make sure that your friends know how they can reach you. This is so they can easily find you when you need help. It's also a good idea to have someone who could check to see if you're fine from time to time.
8. Know your neighborhood.
Familiarize yourself with your new territory. Find out where the closest laundry shops, water refilling stations, pharmacies, hospitals, convenience stores and groceries are located. Plot out how and when you have to avail of their services or goods. After all, these things are necessities. Moreover, list down the hotlines of the fire department, police station, and utilities providers (light, water and phone).
Paula Owen has been passionate about writing articles for the last 5 years. Check out her latest website Plus Size Shorts [http://www.plussizeshortsshop.com/] which reviews and lists the latest plus size clothes [http://www.plussizeshortsshop.com/womens-plus-size-clothes/] so you can decide which women's plus size clothes best suit your wardrobe needs.
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