Don’t make a move about considering what you need to do first. Can you afford it? Will you need a roommate? Can you find an affordable place in a safe area? What do you need to know about utilities and insurance? Are you ready to do your own cooking and cleaning? What furnishings and household items will you need?
The following blog post authored by Becky should give you some ideas.
http://blog.movebuilder.com/posts/10-tips-for-making-moving-out-for-the-first-time-a-success/
This post provides a lot of food for thought. In addition, to the tips provided in the post, do the following: Make a list of furniture and household items you have and one of items you still need. Start talking to your parents and others to find out what else you can acquire without spending any money. Finally, make a list of the things you will need to buy. Consider garage sales, thrift stores, flea markets, etc. Let relatives know what you would like to put on your gift wish list or simply explain that you would prefer gifts of cash to buy things you need. Wait until you have exhausted other possibilities before you start spending your hard-earned money.
Are you ready to make your move?
Checking out the neighborhood is especially important if you are on a budget. I would have liked the author to give suggestions, such as checking police crime stats online, or something.
I agree. One of the topics planned for this blog is Meeting Your Housing Needs. Another will deal with Maintaining Health and Safety.
Try these interactive maps
http://www.raidsonline.com/
http://spotcrime.com/tx/austin