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So, you’re up to the “discussing moving in together” stage of your relationship. Deep breath. Whether you’re moving out for the first time or moving out of a share house, here are some ideas of things to consider before you decide to create your first home together.
Make sure you’re ready
Sharing a home is a big step, so it’s important to make sure you’re both ready. Don’t base your decision on purely financial factors and talk openly about the positives and negatives of moving in to a new house together – maybe over a bottle of wine.
Talk finances
It’s also essential to discuss how your finances will change once you move in together. Will you open a joint bank account? Do you plan to each take responsibility for different bills? How will you cope with major and unexpected expenses? Do you have similar ideas on how to budget and save? It’s best to know the answers to these questions beforehand.
Check you’re on the same page
For a smooth move, you also need to be certain that you’re both looking for the similar things in a new home. Check that you’re on the same page when it comes to type of house, location and nearby amenities before you start looking at rental properties.
Establish ground rules
Living with someone else can solidify your relationship, but you're likely to find there are some challenges to overcome. Dirty dishes and messy bathrooms can trigger arguments that escalate quickly if you’re not careful (think about establishing a cleaning schedule). Establish a few ground rules early on and it will be much easier to avoid potential pitfalls.
Be ready for compromises
Learning to compromise is a key part of creating a successful home together. Be prepared to discuss everything from your home décor to your evening viewing (MAFS or The Bachelor?), and make sure you’re both willing to compromise when the need arises.
Plan ahead
Try and put together a budget before you move in together. Consider rent, monthly bills and shared expenses such as home insurance and internet. One of the best saving tips is to be savvy when it comes to your utility bills. Make sure you’re on the right electricity and gas plan to estimate what you can expect to pay for your energy bills and get your budget off to a good start. Also consider these great energy saving tips.
