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One of the cheapest
long-term accommodation types is sharing a room with a friend or
boy/girlfriend. You don't get much privacy, but, on the other hand,
it's the best way start off and save money. You can get a double
room to share from 70$ per week to over £100. It can be a
little uncomfortable, especially if your friend works different
hours than you, but you won't feel so lonely, which can be a great
advantage when getting used to living in a huge town like London.
If you come
to London on your own, it is also advisable you find a room in the
house or a flat to start with. The price depends on the location
and the size of the room, as usual. If you are lucky it might start
from £50 but it might be over £100 per week. You will
have your privacy and you will be a king in your room.
You might be
required to pay a deposit which could be a weekly or a monthly rent.
It will depend on the landlord.
Before you
move in:
Whether you
are on your own or with a friend, make sure you have a good look
at the area and the place itself. Check the room carefully; what
facilities there are, whether the utilities like water, gas, electricity
are included in the price or you have special gas/electricity pay-as-you-go
meters (you have to put money in it or a special card).
Try to meet your flatmates if you can; it is very important as you
will be sharing the kitchen and bathroom. It would help if you like
each other!
Read the contract carefully: make sure you know EXACTLY what the
rules of payment and living in the house are.
If you are happy with it don't wait too long because the person
who sees the place after you might take it instead!
Pros
- You get reasonable
privacy, especially when having a single room
- You learn
to live and respect your friends'/flatmates' needs and habits
- You become
more independent and mature
- You learn
to look after yourself and control your money
- When having
nice flatmates it can be a great fun
Cons
- Quite expensive
in case of being on your own
- You might
get lonely sometimes if staying in a single room
- If you happen
to share with people you don't get on with some conflicts might
arise
- You might
find impossible to live with somebody
Experience
(sharing with a friend)
From my personal
experience I can tell you, it's great fun to live with your friends!!!
I've been lucky to live with very nice people. Of course it's not
always sunny, but generally it's a great experience. The only problem
we had was when my Russian roomate had parties and I had to go to
work the next day. On the other hand it's nice, especially if you
can't cook, but your partner can. You can take care of each other
like in a little family...
Experience
(living on your own)
If you are mature,
need some time for yourself, live a busy life, go for it! After some
time living with your friends, you start to understand you need your
space. It's a bit more expensive, but after a while you might be ready
to pay any money in order to have your privacy and freedom.
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