Am I Ready To Move Out?

In order to move out, you need cash, and a constant flow of it.

There are a number of expenses you need to consider before you sign the piece of paper that ties you to The Man for the next 6-12 months. Here are some things you should think about:

• Bond money
• Rent money (saving at least 4-8 weeks in advance is a good idea)
• Cash for things you forgot you needed to set up the house (like a toilet brush cleaner)
• Cash for bills (electricity, water, gas, tv/movie)
• Subscriptions (we're talking Netflix, Stan, Spotify)
• Food money (don’t underestimate how much you will spend on midnight McDonald's runs)

You also need to make sure that cash flow is consistent, so you’ll need to draw up a budget to see whether you can afford it in the long run. Is uni ending soon? What are you gonna do after that? Is your job looking to hire more people which will, in turn, affect your hours? Consider everything. If the real estate agent or landlord doesn’t think your work situation will be able to sustain your life outside of home, they won’t lease to you – so sort that stuff out.

Can you call and make appointments by yourself? Can you get to them on time? Is your bedroom clean and do you change your own sheets? Do you know how to work a washing machine? Do you ever floss? Are you independent enough to do everything on your own? Yes, that’s dinner, washing, scrubbing the toilet and making sure the lawn is mowed. These are the questions you need to ask yourself.

You can be ready and cashed up, but who are you gonna live with and not wanna kill after a week? Choosing your housemates is important, especially if you’re going to be signing a lease together, which is not too easy to get out of if things go awry (particularly if you’re moving in with a current girlfriend or boyfriend… yikes!).

If you don’t have housemates in mind, there are plenty of online services and Facebook pages you can join to find the ones that are right for you. Just make sure you chat with them for a little before making any promises. Don’t wanna be moving in with a psycho killer, or worse, SOMEONE WHO PUTS THE EMPTY MILK CARTON BACK IN THE FRIDGE *shudder*.

If all signs point to yes and you’re ready to make the big move, you can read up on more info about renting or buying your first home.

​​​​​​​This information is intended to be general in nature only and might not apply to your personal circumstances. When in doubt always seek professional guidance.