| Moving out of your parents' house and living on your | | | | electrical wiring, iffy locks, and flammable substances. |
| own may sound fun -- but it's actually a lot of hard | | | | Check your water pipes for leaks and make sure the |
| work. If possible, you shouldn't do it on a whim. A lot | | | | plumbing is in order. Then, make sure that your |
| of planning should go into this life-changing move. | | | | windows are screened to keep out mosquitoes and |
| Here are the eight most important steps in living solo: | | | | other pests. |
| 1. Register your cash. | | | | 5. Mind your health. |
| Make sure that your finances are solid. Come clean | | | | Going solo means there won't be anyone who can |
| with what you have and what you don't. You should | | | | immediately come to your rescue in case you get |
| have enough to cover your estimated monthly | | | | sick. So, for starters, don't neglect your health. Eat |
| expenses and, perhaps, at least $100 to $200 left | | | | nutritious meals, get enough sleep, and take vitamins. |
| over to add to your savings. Ideally, you should have | | | | Invest in a first aid kit and over-the-counter medicine |
| at least three months' worth of funds ready. Also, | | | | that can give you much-needed relief when you're |
| keep in mind that many places for rent require you | | | | sick. |
| to make a safety deposit before you're awarded the | | | | 6. Stock up on essentials. |
| lease. | | | | Have a stash of ready-to-eat food for days when |
| 2. Address your living space. | | | | you're too tired to cook or buy food. You should also |
| Since you're just starting out, you won't be able to | | | | have a few bars of soap, as well as an extra bottle |
| afford a posh condo yet. But that doesn't mean you | | | | of shampoo and a tube of toothpaste. You should |
| have to settle for a decrepit hovel. It's most practical | | | | likewise never run out of sanitary napkins. You will |
| for you to find a place that's close to where you | | | | need these reserve supplies in case of emergencies |
| work so you won't spend much for transportation. | | | | such as storms or when you're unable to leave your |
| You could also share an apartment, condo unit, or | | | | place. |
| house with your friends or workmates. Just make | | | | 7. Get your keys in place. |
| sure the location you choose is safe and clean. It's | | | | Leave an extra pair of your house keys at your |
| fine to spend more in order to live hassle-free in a | | | | office or leave them with a trusted friend or family |
| good neighborhood. | | | | member. Make sure that your friends know how |
| 3. Inspect the contract carefully. | | | | they can reach you. This is so they can easily find |
| Read the lease that the landlord or building | | | | you when you need help. It's also a good idea to |
| administrator gives you. If possible, you can request | | | | have someone who could check to see if you're fine |
| that the rent be "locked." This means that there will | | | | from time to time. |
| be no yearly rent increases imposed. Requests are | | | | 8. Know your neighborhood. |
| more likely to be granted when you inform the | | | | Familiarize yourself with your new territory. Find out |
| landlord that you're planning to stay long-term. Take | | | | where the closest laundry shops, water refilling |
| note of the other stipulations of your lease to be | | | | stations, pharmacies, hospitals, convenience stores |
| sure that you're getting a fair deal. Know whom you | | | | and groceries are located. Plot out how and when |
| can call for repairs and other concerns. | | | | you have to avail of their services or goods. After all, |
| 4. Ensure your safety. | | | | these things are necessities. Moreover, list down the |
| Inspect the interiors of your place and make sure | | | | hotlines of the fire department, police station, and |
| that there are no safety hazards such as faulty | | | | utilities providers (light, water and phone). |