first time living alone

clairacluck_2

hi im moving into my first home soon never lived alone before. I have had long term illness and always lived with family. can anyone give me any tips/advice on the important things to do when I move it, utilities etc. thanks

tealady

Hi
Firstly make sure you get your 25% discount on Council Tax
For me I try to have only one light on at a time, if I leave a room then I switch off the light. I often don't have a light on whilst watching the tv.
Wash up once a day, saves on heating and washing up liquid.
Make full use of your oven, batch cook if you can. Your freezerer is your friend when you live on your own.
Look at having a water meter, I saved over a third on my water bills.
And most of all enjoy doing what you want when you want. If you have the urge to watch umpteen episodes of a programme back to back then go ahead and enjoy!

juniordoc

Make friends with your neighbours! It can feel a bit lonely when you first move out.
Start conversations by asking when the bins get taken out, where's the best local pub etc.
Neighbours can be really handy if you get stuck in a sticky situation, and it's nice to know somebody has your back.
Getting involved in a new local community can be tricky but volunteering is a good way to start.
Enjoy your new home!

zebulon

Change the locks!

Pixie5740

Take the meter readings when you moved in. You don't want to be paying for a previous occupant's utility usage. Use comparison websites to work out the best value for money utility suppliers. Also use cashback websites when signing up for your utilities. If you will be watching television get a tv licence.

First thing to unpack when you move in is your bed. You don't want to get to the end of moving day tired and still having to make your bed when all you want to do is sleep.

clairacluck_2

thanks all im excited about the move but its a little scarey

theartfullodger

Are you renting, will have a mortgage or is it fully paid for? If rent or mortgage that is your PRIORITY item to pay 1st... or you run the risk (eventually) of losing your home. Council tax also pay.

Good luck, enjoy the new found freedom!

Marvel1

Handy things for spare drawer: batteries, torch, sellotape, screwdrivers, pens.

Winter now, instead of heating all evening, have a duvet instead when on the sofa.

Have heating to come in mornings though, mine is hour just to prevent freezing pipes.

If renting know your rights.

clairacluck_2

would you say water gas electric pre pay meters will work out cheaper for single person

Teapot55

Never get behind with your washing.

If you get short on food you can pop out & buy some. If you were short of the right clothes you needed for whatever you were doing one day when you got up you would be in a right pickle.

Not always obvious until you live on your own . . . parents or partners were always there before that to remind you about it . . .

Pixie5740

clairacluck wrote: »

would you say water gas electric pre pay meters will work out cheaper for single person

No. Prepaid electricity and gas is more expensive per unit than being billed monthly or quarterly.