Whether you're moving into a home of your own or student accommodation, living away from home can be an eye opening experience. You can explore what you need to know about living alone on The Mix Home Truths.  

What you need to consider when moving out 

Where do you want to live?
Do you want to be near family, friends, work or college? What are the travel costs if you move further away?

What can I afford?
Your main housing option is likely to be renting, but you have to be 18 or older to hold a tenancy. If you're 16 or 17 you may be considered by a landlord if you have an adult who will act as a guarantor. A guarantor must agree to pay the rent if for some reason you cannot pay it. 

Many private landlords can be reluctant to rent to young people, especially if you will be claiming housing benefit.

Low income and no savings can make it very difficult for young people to afford suitable accommodation. But it is possible with some exploring and advice.

Finding a privately rented place
There are many different types of housing available to rent privately. You might be looking to rent a self-contained flat or house, or just a room. Information about private rented accommodation is often available:

• by word of mouth
• in local newspapers and magazines
• in shop windows and notice boards
• through letting agencies and accommodation agencies.
• through Apps/websites, such as 'On the market', Zoopla, or GumTree. They allow you to search for accommodation in your area, and based on your budget.

Private landlord or letting agency?
It will depend on the property. But which ever route you take make sure you understand what you are responsible for as a tenant, and what your landlord or the letting agency is responsible for. For information on using a letting agency, visit Shelter

How much would I have to pay in advance?
Landlords usually ask for one month's rent in advance and one month's rent as a deposit, although it can be more than this. Normally you have to pay this at the same time as you sign the tenancy agreement. 

If you find a home through a letting agent, you may have to pay agency fees too. Some charge tenants and some don't, so it may be worth shopping around.

What are my rights?
You need to fully understand your rights as a tenant. This means reading the tenancy agreement, checking the property and arranging things like insurance cover. For information on home and content insurance, visit the Money Saving Expert website.

You can find even more information on The Mix Website 

Leaving home for university

Leaving home to go to university is a big deal, it can feel exciting, but also can feel really scary. It's important that you feel prepared for this change, and that you know where to go for support if you need it. Make sure you check what student emotional wellbeing support is available at your Uni campus so you know who to contact if you need to.

You should register with a GP Surgery in the new area where you will be living.

Take a look at the film above which follows a group of young men on their journey to uni, and their emotional wellbeing.