Making the huge decision to move into your own place, spread your wings, and gain some much-needed independence is a big step for anyone.

As more and more Scots turn to s1homes to search for the best properties to rent, with online visits up 76% so far this month compared to last year and enquiries to rental agents doubling, the rental market is picking up after the effects of the past year.

This big step also comes with a huge financial impact, so weighing up your living options is extremely important. For example, flat or house sharing could give you that sense of freedom you desire, whilst being more affordable. But remember, although there are benefits to sharing bills, you may not find sharing your living space as easy.

Luckily, we’ve put together some handy points to consider when deciding between living alone and sharing.

Living alone: the positives

Independence

Definitely the biggest positive, especially if you’ve outgrown your family home. What could be better than lazing on the sofa after a hard day at work, indulging in fast food while binging your favourite Netflix series? Well, if you decide to live alone, this fantasy could become a reality. You’re free to come and go as you please, invite friends over, have parties and work out in peace.

Style

Minimalist or lavish, whatever your personal style choices, living alone gives you free rein to indulge without the need for compromise. Of course, when it comes to renting you may find that you are somewhat restricted when it comes to making big style changes, but you should be able to find little ways to make your mark and make your new place feel like home.

From funky furniture to abstract art, you can really put your own stamp on your home without having to put it to a vote.

Peace and quiet

Living alone can be a much more stress-free scenario. Solo dwellers can avoid many of the strains that come from living with a flat or housemate. There’s no one to create a mess, make too much noise or dip into your secret stash of chocolate biscuits. Bliss! Also, if like many at the moment you are working from home, living alone can mean you can be more productive than if you had noisy housemates on a different schedule to you.

Living alone: the negatives

Costs

There’s no doubt that living alone is pricier. As well as stumping up the rental payments every month, you must also cover utility bills. So, if you really want to live alone, make sure you’ve sufficient income to cover all your costs. Also, ensure that you aren’t stretching yourself financially every month and take all your outgoings into consideration.

Loneliness

Living alone can be fun most of the time but it can also get lonely. There’s no one to share your day’s stories, cook dinner with or watch the next Netflix release with. So if you enjoy being around people then living alone might not be for you.

Sharing: the positives

Economy

All the costs of living in your house are shared. If money is a bit tight or you’re trying to save, sharing could be the ideal solution. You might even end up with a bit more disposable income every month allowing you to save up for your own place in the future.

Life lessons

Living with other people can teach you a lot about yourself. You’ll discover just what you can tolerate as well as how to exercise patience and communicate effectively. You may also learn a new hobby, dip into a new culture, broaden your social skills or learn how to cook.

Sharing: the negatives

Privacy

One of the major drawbacks of cohabiting is the lack of privacy. You run a bath and suddenly someone needs to use it at the same time. You invite friends over and your flatmate has already commandeered the lounge for an online gaming marathon. You get the gist!

Compromise

Let’s face it, none of us really loves to compromise. But, if you share a flat, you will have to learn how to. This means adhering to the cleaning schedule, respecting personal space and being mindful when using communal items and spaces.

Whether you dare to share or decide to fly solo, s1homes.com has the perfect selection of rental properties around Scotland. Start your property search today.