If you’re moving out of home for the first time, here is some information and tips to help you plan your move and how to manage independent life.

When do people leave home?

Many people choose to leave the family home in their late teens through to their twenties. Sometimes, depending on your relationship with your family, you may need to leave sooner than expected. Either way, it pays to be prepared and have a plan.

Why do people leave home?

There are many reasons why people leave home at this stage, and most commonly it’s to gain independence as an adult. Other reasons include wanting to live with your partner, convenience for travel to work, or for further education. Sometimes, parents will ask their children to leave for some reason. That’s where planning will make the transition easier.

If you have the choice, it’s best to move when you’re ready and not before. Ignore peer pressure to move out and never make rash decisions.

What you’ll need to consider in your plan:
●    Finding a safe place to live
●    Having enough money to support yourself
●    Learning how to budget and manage debt
●    Learning to deal with flatmates
●    Communicating with concerned parents or family members

Moving tips

1. Make a budget. You’re always best to live within your means. A budget will help to determine what you can afford and guide your decision making around moving and managing life. Be thorough with all the costs in your budget. Find out all the costs associated with renting, how much you’ll need for food, utilities, travel and daily expenses.

If possible, practice budgeting before you leave home. If you can save money, put as much as you can aside, as you’ll need it later.

2. Get flatmates to help pay the rent. Choose your flatmates carefully. Make sure you’re choosing people with the capacity to pay their share of the costs. Getting lumped with debt because someone hasn’t paid their way can make life very difficult.

3. Get a steady income. A steady income makes moving out of home much easier, even if you’re not working in your ideal job or industry. Work experience is essential for career growth, so consider getting a foot in the door wherever you can to get started on your journey.

4. Find a place to live that’s within your budget and handy for work and any amenities you need. It can take time to find the right place, so don’t leave it too late to start looking.

5. Enjoy your independence. This is an exciting time of life. Enjoy it.

If you need help with your first move, please give us a call.