Let’s face it, living on your own can be rough. One second its “what’s for dinner mom?” the next it’s “What am I going to do for dinner?” Living on your own can be scary and unpredictable. Here are just a few quick tips to know before you make that big step to adulthood!
- Make a Budget
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When looking for your own place know exactly how much income you have to work with. Don’t forget extra bills like your phone bill, insurance, car note.
- Location
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If you’re a college student see how close you can get to campus. Is there a bus route nearby that you could ride to school and save a little cash on a parking pass or gas?
- Roomies!
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Make sure you live with people you enjoy. Bad roomies could cause unwanted conflict and affect the dynamic.
- Groceries
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Going out to eat may seem cheaper but it adds up! Be sure to keep groceries in the home, set aside money each month to plan for around $85-$100 in food costs. Aldi has great food for great prices to save you some cash, and don’t be afraid to cook a whole meal. You can have leftovers for lunch at school!
- Save up Before You Move
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You always think you have everything you need, but once you get there you realize you need some small things that can add up.
- Utilities
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This is where it’ll get you. Be sure to turn off the lights and unplug things when they’re not in use. Use natural light during the day to save power.
- Always Have a Savings Account.
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You never ever know what will happen, sometimes things are out of your control. The best thing you can do is plan for the unexpected by having some cash
- Lastly, Decorate!
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Make it your own, this is your space and you want it to feel like home. Staying organized and having a home-like feeling makes it a little easier to be on your own.
Now head out there and enjoy adulthood! It may not go your way, be easy, or even feel like you can do it, but at the end of the day, there is no better feeling than being independent.