I've lived with my parents for over a year now and, in that time, I'd forgotten why moving house is stressful. After finishing university, I moved back home for a while to try and give myself a better start financially. Whilst I've loved being back home, I felt like it was time to try and stand on my own two feet - so, I've moved to London! Once I'd actually done it, I realised why moving house is stressful, so here's a few things to think about before you do it.
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Finding a Place
This may seem an obvious reason as to why moving house is stressful, but I didn't realise quite how hard it would be to find a nice place that myself and my flat mates all liked and could afford. Expect to be searching for a month or two if you want to find the ideal place, perhaps longer if you're buying rather than renting or moving to a city. We had to view multiple places as well, and this was a bit of a nightmare. Everyone works full-time and you don't always feel like slapping around looking at properties. Plus, you have to find times that everyone can make. Not easy!
Estate Agents
The bane of my life. In three years of university and now renting, I haven't had a single interaction with an estate agent that hasn't caused me unnecessary strife. And, surprise, surprise, I've been screwed over. If they promise you something or advertise something, make sure every little thing you are promised is written down in the contract.
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Little Things
Before you decide on a place, have a checklist of things to tick off. How much, on average, are bills? Do you have a washing machine? TV points in the bedroom? Storage space? Make sure you have everything you want before you sign.
Flatmates
Whether you're moving in with a partner or friends, you really need to be sure about it. As someone who wasn't sure but did it anyway, it made the whole thing so much more stressful. Living with someone you don't want to live with is horrible.
That's MY Room!
Even if you are sure, there will still probably be some learning curves. Don't let yourself get walked all over - why should you have the smallest room? Is it really fair that you're the only one who keeps the place clean?
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Stuff
I had no idea how much stuff I would need to buy. Moving is expensive anyway, but I didn't factor in everything else. You need to be aware of what you're going to have to spend - think things like a tv license, getting the internet set-up, plates, cutlery, glasses, and everything like that.
Change
Change is hard. You may be one of those rare people that love it but I think, for the most part, we are creatures of habit. Leaving your home, your parents, creating a brand new routine - it really is hard and you need to be sure you're ready for it.
All that being said, I've been here nearly a week now and I'm loving it! Still, I wish I had planned ahead and been more aware, so I hope this is helpful. What else do you need to consider when you're moving?
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