Whether you’re a high school senior who just got accepted to UW-Stevens Point, or a twenty-something in Waukesha living at home to save money, you might be eager and ready to move out on your own.
While it’s an exciting milestone in your journey toward independence, there are several important factors to consider before taking that big step.
1. Prepare financially
Before making the move to move out, you need to make sure you’ll have enough money. This preparation will ensure a smooth transition and help you manage the responsibilities that come with living independently.
- Create a budget to understand your expenses: Track your income and expenses to get a clear picture of where your money is going. This will help you determine how much you can afford to spend on rent, utilities, groceries, and other living expenses.
- Save for moving costs and emergencies: You might have to hire a moving company, rent a truck, or purchase new furniture – all of which can be expensive. Start saving well in advance to cover these costs. Having an emergency fund is also smart, as unexpected expenses can pop up at any time.
- Research the cost of living: Living in Milwaukee or Madison will be more expensive than Rhinelander or Chippewa Falls. Consider factors such as housing costs, transportation expenses, healthcare, and taxes. This research will help you figure out how much you’ll need to live comfortably.
2. Find the right place
Everyone is unique, so the “right” place will be different for everyone. Having said that, the three tips below will help you zero in on your right place.
- Know your needs and preferences: Think about the space you require, the number of bedrooms and bathrooms, and any specific features that are important to you. Are you looking for a house with a yard or an apartment with amenities like a gym or pool? These are things you’ll want to think about.
- Research neighborhoods and conveniences: Consider factors like proximity to grocery stores, parks, restaurants, and entertainment options. If you have specific lifestyle preferences, look for areas that cater to those interests. For example, if you enjoy biking and are moving to Green Bay, check out neighborhoods near the Fox River Trail.
- Be safe: Look for areas with low crime rates and good lighting. Additionally, think about your drive to work or school. Consider how far you’re willing to travel and whether you’d like a shorter commute or a quieter location farther away.
3. Manage responsibilities
Laundry, meals, and trash day are all on you, now!
Living on your own comes with new responsibilities. Knowing what’s ahead will help you get mentally prepared. This new to-do list includes:
- Planning for household chores and maintenance: Tasks that were previously handled by someone else will be assigned to you now. You’ll need to set aside time for cleaning, laundry, meal prep, and other regular chores. Get comfortable with basic maintenance skills like changing light bulbs, unclogging drains, and changing air filters.
- Setting up utilities and changing your address: Before moving, contact utility providers to set up services in your name. This includes electricity, water, gas, internet, and any other necessary utilities. Additionally, update your address with the post office, banks, insurance companies, and other important institutions.
- Understanding lease agreements and tenant rights: If renting, carefully review and understand your lease agreement before signing. Take note of the terms and conditions, including rent amount, due dates, security deposit, and pet policies. Familiarize yourself with your rights as a tenant, such as repairs and maintenance responsibilities, privacy rights, and the process for ending the lease.
4. Build a support network
There’s a social component to this big life change that shouldn’t be overlooked. The tips in this section are just as important as those outlined above.
- Stay connected with family and friends: Moving away from home doesn’t mean you have to disconnect from your loved ones. Make an effort to stay in touch through video chats, phone calls, or planning visits back home.
- Find resources and support groups: Look for local organizations or support groups that cater to people living on their own. Community-focused organizations like Meetup, Nextdoor, and YMCA are terrific options for building new connections.
- Consider roommates or shared housing: Living alone can be expensive and sometimes lonely. Having roommates or a shared-housing arrangement not only helps with the financial burden but also offers companionship and joint responsibilities.
5. Be emotionally prepared
Moving out on your own for the first time can be heavy on the heart. This is another component of early independence that should not be overlooked.
- Acknowledge and deal with homesickness: This is common emotion during this major life transition. These feelings are normal – allow yourself to own and process them. As mentioned above, stay in touch with family and friends through video chats, phone calls, or in-person visits.
- Take care of your mental health: Moving out on your own can bring on new stressors and challenges. Nurture your well-being by doing things that help you relax and unwind, like exercising, reading, or getting lost in a hobby.
- Seek guidance and advice: If you find yourself struggling, seek guidance from those who have gone through a similar experience. Connect with friends, parents, siblings, or mentors who’ll talk to you and offer support.
6. Secure insurance and protection
Securing insurance and protection for your new home or apartment is a must when moving out on your own. You’re putting yourself at risk if you don’t.
- Research and choose appropriate renters or homeowners insurance: Your personal belongings are valuable, and it’s essential to have adequate coverage in case of theft, damage, or loss. Carve out time to research different insurance providers and compare homeowners and renters policies to find the one that best fits your needs and budget.
- Consider additional coverage for valuable items: If you own big-ticket items like expensive jewelry, electronics, sports memorabilia, or artwork, you should consider adding additional coverage to your policy. This will ensure you’re fully covered in case there’s any damage or loss to your authentic Brett Favre-autographed Packers jersey.
Moving out on your own for the first time means having your own insurance for the first time. Make your first experience with an insurance company a great one by contacting a local Rural Mutual agent today.
