There comes a time in the life of each of us when we have to distance ourselves from our parents to face the world alone. This guide will help you prepare for this great step.
Steps
Step 1. Get a job
Is simple. No work, no money, and without money you will be forced to go back to your parents begging for a place to sleep and something to put in your stomach. Look for a job you do well. If you know you have a talent for phone calls or administrative duties, such as writing letters, apply for secretarial positions. Work hard to find a job that is well paid and that you do well. A minimum wage is often not enough to live on. If you find a job with a low salary, don't stop looking for a better one!
Step 2. Find a roommate
Inquire around and see if anyone wants to share the apartment with you. This is practically a must, unless you can find a rental apartment that fits your budget.
Step 3. Find a place to live
If you have found a roommate who already has a place to stay, skip this step. Otherwise, go hunting with your roommate and find a small apartment at a good price. Call residential complexes in your city and ask them questions. How much is the rent cost? What expenses are included? Is the apartment furnished? These questions give you important information that can be decisive for your choice. Talk to your roommate and sign the rental agreement.
Step 4. Make decisions
Decide how to divide the housework, and divide the expenses. These simple decisions, if made in advance, can save you a lot of problems that may arise over time.
Step 5. Connect the utilities
If the utilities are not included in the rental agreement, call the relevant services and the companies that provide the services and make the connections.
Step 6. Make a budget
Calculate all expenses (rent, utilities, food, etc.) and income and have a plan on how to spend the money. Money management is probably the most important aspect of going through life alone; you have to manage your money in order to be able to cover your expenses. Don't spend more money on entertainment (bowling, cinema, restaurants, etc.) than you budgeted for.
Step 7. Get out of the house
To live alone, you have to… well… live alone. Say hello to your parents and move into your new home.
Advice
- Some residential complexes, especially in college towns, may offer the option of signing two separate rental contracts, eliminating the hassle of asking your roommate for the monthly rent. Each of you will simply pay their dues directly to the residential complex. If your roommate doesn't have a separate contract, make sure they sign the same rental agreement as you.
- Find ways to earn more. When you have some free time, think about other ways to make a living. You might find another job, offer your skills to someone you know and need, or look for project contracts, for example on freelancer.com (for programmers and web designers) for companies and freelancers.
