Moving out for the first time? Tips for finding your first own place
Moving out on your own is a major step toward independent living. When you start feeling ready for your own space, it’s time to begin the search. Use these practical tips to find your very first home.
Summary
- When moving out on your own becomes relevant, consider your moving schedule, housing option, apartment location, and budget. Remember to compare different lessors as well.
- Before signing your tenancy agreement, check at least the agreement terms, notice period, rent increases, and any other costs.
- Understanding the costs of living independently helps with budgeting. It is also a good idea to find out in advance what kinds of benefits may be available after moving out of your childhood home.
- Adjusting to independent living is easy when you are prepared for the first weeks in your new home and for maintaining your own home.
What to consider when you’re moving out on your own for the first time
Before you start applying for flats, think through at least the following:
- Timeline: When do you absolutely need a place? When would you ideally like to move? Finding a suitable apartment can take several months, so give yourself enough time.
- Renting or buying? Most students choose a rented apartment at first. Renting offers flexibility if your situation changes, and the property owner is responsible for repairs and maintenance.
- Location and budget: Prepare a monthly budget to understand what level of rent you can afford. Based on that, explore which areas and types of accommodation fit within your price range.
- Apartment search: Compare different letting agents, student housing providers and rental companies. Check rents, locations and services to find the best option for you.
Choosing the right type of accommodation when you’re moving out on your own
Consider which type of accommodation suits your life at the moment. A studio may feel like a big step, and many students start out with a friend, partner or in shared accommodation. Living together usually turns out to be cheaper than living alone.
- Sharing with a friend: Look for a flat where you both have enough private space. For example, a two-room apartment with a shared kitchen works well as both residents have their own rooms but share the kitchen and bathroom.
- Living with a partner: You may not need separate bedrooms, but some extra space can still be helpful. Small two-room apartment could be perfect first home for a young couple.
- Shared apartments: Rent your own room within a shared apartment. You have your own tenancy agreement, meaning you aren’t responsible if other tenants move out. At the same time, you get to meet new people, and the rent is much cheaper compared to studio apartment. Shared apartment is a great gateway to begin your new independent phase of life.
Where to start your search for a first apartment
You can find your first place through a variety of channels. Try at least these:
Research in advance whether the lessor appears trustworthy. If the rent is significantly lower than that of similar apartments, be cautious not to fall victim to a scam. A good approach is to ask the lessor for the contact details of the previous tenant or for a reference. For larger rental companies, you can usually find customer reviews by searching online.
What to check before signing a tenancy agreement
- Is the agreement fixed-term or valid until further notice?
- What is the notice period for both tenant and lessor?
- Are rent increases mentioned?
- Are there additional monthly charges, such as water fees?
- What other terms or conditions apply?
- Do you need to pay a deposit or advance rent?
Understanding the deposit
Many property owners require a deposit before the tenancy begins. The amount varies: some require only a few hundred euros, others the equivalent of a couple of months’ rent. Some lessors do not request a deposit at all.
You pay the deposit to the lessor’s bank account before signing the tenancy agreement. It acts as security for the lessor. If there is damage to the property or unpaid rent, the lessor may use part or all of the deposit to cover costs.
When you move out, the deposit is returned to you unless there is damage or outstanding payments.
At Hoas, the security deposit is usually 0 euros, with the exception of certain special cases.
Budgeting for your first apartment and everyday living costs
Living on your own comes with expenses that may be new to first-time renters. Prepare for:
- Monthly housing expenses: rent, internet, water, electricity, home insurance
- Everyday costs that are easier to manage with a pre-planned budget
- Moving costs, such as:
- Van hire and fuel
- Packing materials
- Basic items for your first home (furniture, cleaning supplies, kitchenware, lamps, bedding)
Students in Finland may be eligible for financial support to help cover living costs. Kela provides study grants with a housing supplement included in the grant. More details are available on Kela’s website.
Settling into independent living: your first weeks at home
Moving into your own flat is exciting, but it can also feel overwhelming, especially in a new city. Settling in takes time, and routines will soon fall into place. To ease the transition:
- Maintain familiar routines, such as sleep schedules or exercise habits
- Do activities that make you feel good, like cooking, listening to music or watching a series
- Explore your neighbourhood and find local services
- Plan something to look forward to, such as a housewarming or seasonal decorating
Early household routines to learn when moving out on your own
Independent living also means new responsibilities.
- Create a cleaning schedule to keep tasks manageable
- Mark bill payment dates and use e-invoices when possible
- Find out who to contact if you experience issues in your rental home
- Track your income and expenses with budgeting apps