Finished College? 5 Steps to Move Out on Your Own

You probably have an idea of what you want to do over the next few years, but take the time to write it down. How will you use your degree? What are your career goals over the next 2, 5, and 10 years? What are you doing now to earn money? How long do you want to spend preparing to move out? Do you plan to live in the local area, or will you have to move farther away? Will you get a roommate?

Share your timeline with family and friends so everyone is on the same page and can support your goals. Then, hang your plan up to help you stay on track. 

At college, you no doubt started taking care of your own life and needs. If you lived away from home, you may have learned to do some basic cooking and cleaning, to do your laundry, and to get yourself to places on time. If you still need to work on any of these life skills, do it now. Being independent at managing your daily life gives you confidence that you're ready to head out from the nest. 

Apartment hunting can be time-consuming and confusing, so start early. To find a place that you'll enjoy and can afford, you first need to see what the apartment selection is like in the area where you want to live. What are you looking for in a place to live? How does that compare with the available apartments? And what can you really afford? 

Create a priority list as you shop around for options. Start with the most necessary amenities or included items, such as laundry facilities or access to public transportation. Add some wants, like an onsite gym or covered parking, as you go. Number your priorities and decide which are must-have are which are would-like.

Budgeting is hard, and it's not always fun. But it's vital if you want to get out on your own. Graduating students today often have to balance all the needs of living alone — paying for rent, utilities, and food — with student loan payments that are higher than ever before. Keeping a tight rein on your money is how you get that all done.

Any budget made before moving out will be approximate, though, so tweak it as you exchange expectations with real expenses. 

Once you find an apartment you like, you'll need a few things in order to be approved and move in. First, you'll generally need a good credit score. Check your credit history and follow the instructions to dispute anything incorrect. If your score is low, take steps, such as paying down debt, to boost it. 

You'll also need to save up some money before you start paying for all your expenses on your own. Add up the move-in costs, including the security deposit and the first month's rent, and make that number your first target savings goal. Once you have that set aside, add in more to build a financial buffer for things like starting utility costs and the cost of some basic furnishings. Try to keep a minimal amount, perhaps $1,000, for emergencies as well. 

Are you ready to move on with the next chapter in your life? Moving out is a big step, but at Meadowdale Apartments, we strive to make it simple and enjoyable. Check out our apartments and amenities today, and then call to learn more.