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AIBU?

Share your dilemmas and get honest opinions from other Mumsnetters.

Moved into a houseshare, regret it

118 replies

Ireallywantacat · 03/01/2024 18:32

I'm 33 and split with my partner a month ago, he's still in the flat we lived in and the tenancy on that ends next month.
He's staying there as he works nearby, but I work in another city so I decided it'd make sense to move there.
I've only just moved in, and I feel like I'll regret it already.
I would like to save to buy my own property, and tbh this is the only way I'll be able to save at a reasonable pace whilst having some semblance of a life, if I rent a whole flat on my own it'll take much longer.
This is costing me £450 a month including all bills, council tax, utilities etc. and I am taking home about £1850 net so it's very reasonable.
The room itself is on its own floor which is perfect as you don't have to worry about people right next door, and the house itself is very quiet. It's just other women too, I've met one who seems very nice.
It's a shared bathroom unfortunately, that's not the end of the world and I've shared with my family/ex partner so I don't know why it bothers me that much.
There is no living or dining room however. The walls need repainting a bit in my room so I'm going to ask if I can do that myself.
I don't know why I feel so down because I'm going to be saving a lot of money, and it's literally only whilst I save for a house. My parents said they'd help with some of the deposit which I'm grateful for, but I still want to save myself as much as I can towards it.
I shared a nice flat with my partner and I guess this will just take getting used to, it's been a while since I've lived in one. I'm wishing I at least got an ensuite, but I've signed for 6 months now.
The good thing is that it is only 5 minutes away from my office. It won't be some sort of student party house and it does seem incredibly quiet. I think once I get my TV etc. I'll feel a bit better too hopefully..
Don't know what I'm looking for, just any advice really or similar situations.

OP posts:
AliceOlive · 04/01/2024 11:38

It’s a really tough time, breaking up and moving out of your place. Be kind to yourself. You’ll get through this and on to better times. The money you save will be fabulous.

Do you have enough space to make areas in your room into a sitting area and dining area?

GasPanic · 04/01/2024 11:49

What normally makes a house share intolerable is the other people.

So if they are quiet and don't do stuff to irritate each other too much in your place like leaving piles of dirty washing around or not washing up or holding loud living room conversations while people are trying to sleep then TBH that is an absolutely epic win and you should be grateful for it.

Ireallywantacat · 04/01/2024 12:01

Thank you! Sorry for replying late, I feel so much better today. It is an incredibly peaceful house, I haven't heard a thing. I'll have my TV etc. Set up on Saturday. I've bought a couple of bits and going out for the kettle and so on today.
The only issue I'd say is somebody here seems to cook that sort of fish that makes the kitchen reek all day.. but it's not the end of the world.
I'm so glad to be on my own floor and the shared bathroom isn't so bad. Thanks again for making me feel better!

OP posts:
NewYear24 · 04/01/2024 12:19

I think when you get your kettle and TV set up it will make a big difference.
Do you things to do at the weekend?

FiresideVision4921 · 04/01/2024 12:30

I lived in a few different house shares when I was younger

I saved up to buy

I got 2x PT jobs working in the evenings.
One job also paid tips on top & a free meal & drink
Then I got a better paid main job
I ate my meals at work

Goodluck

Unicorntastic · 04/01/2024 13:12

You can buy deodorisers (they don’t smell lovely but do get rid of the smell quickly):to absorb the fish smell, I mean you shouldn’t have to but whatever it takes to make it pleasant!

Newestname002 · 04/01/2024 20:49

Unicorntastic · 04/01/2024 13:12

You can buy deodorisers (they don’t smell lovely but do get rid of the smell quickly):to absorb the fish smell, I mean you shouldn’t have to but whatever it takes to make it pleasant!

I had a look at Amazon under 'smell neutraliser' - maybe try putting one of those in the kitchen? 🌹

Noodles1234 · 04/01/2024 20:55

I get it, and well done!
you’ve had a huge change in your personal life, but you’ve looked at things logically and this makes practical sense.

however you had a nice flat and now you may feel like you’re going backwards.

stick with it, keep looking at Rightmove and remind yourself why you’re doing what you are doing. Ask to repaint and buy a new little houseplant or something, learn to crochet, knit or crossstitch to pass some time and achievement.

well done, I know it’s not easy and there will be difficult days, but also better ones too.

Doone22 · 04/01/2024 21:05

Sounds like you've really landed on your feet. Really cheap, really close to work in a house that's not full of weirdos.
Just makeover your room into a little sanctuary with some charity shop buys.

Sjh15 · 04/01/2024 21:09

I lived in a house share that sounds very similar when I was 26-30. It was very lonely but CHEAP. That’s what made it for me. My room was huge. I had a sofa area plus a bed and a huge gap in the middle. I made it like a little studio flat. Could you do the same?
I actually also ended up there due to a split from living in a 3 bed flat with a partner. I used the years and saved and got a 2 bed flat on a shared ownership which then my new partner moved in and we now have a son. It might feel a bit rubbish now but look at the bright side, you aren’t back in with family so no one whingeing at you and it’s cheap!!! The shared bathroom and kitchen area did suck, didn’t feel like I could walk around looking my ugliest but I managed there for 4 years and I’m here to tell the tale. It’s probably while it’s new it feels so strange. Xx

AuntMarch · 05/01/2024 00:16

If there is enough space, I'd set myself up a little kitchenette with one of those pressure cooker/air fryer combos, kettle and toaster. I'd use the main kitchen for storage of food still (but also mini fridge for every day bits - don't want to have to get dressed before making a brew and slice of toast on a Saturday morning!), just don't have to worry about waiting for your turn with the oven then!

Vonesk · 05/01/2024 00:41

I have not used this type of property much myself but if I was you I would deffo keep one eye on the future at all times. Make it a hobby to keep updated with The Property market, keep eye on prices of houses. Go around some agents ( for fun) plump yourself up and act like you're almost there. Onwards and upwards!!!!!!!! To keep updated on property prices and do regular viewings. To get ideas on what you want. Pick agents brains. Speak with Mortgage advisers. In the High street Banks it can be : ' Computer says NO!!! ". Mortgage Brokers who sit in Agents offices are usually very friendly , very informative folks, and you can while away your days in there. While they peruse all their best deals on internet.
They might even try to predict what price trends are doing - UP or DOWN.
Another thing if you're sharing a kitchen, would it be a good idea to have a personal mini - fridge???????????

user1471519902 · 05/01/2024 01:27

I have loved reading this thread and all the positive and comforting help given to the OP who must be feeling wobbly after a split up and move.
I am 75 but it took me back to being in my early twenties and sharing a room in Brighton and then a flat and then a house in Chiswick and a flat and a house in Richmond. Both places I didnt know at all coming from the depths of Kent.
The kettle, fridge and potted plant ideas are brilliant. But I would hold back on furniture and other "stuff". Enjoy being a free agent.

Gym membership would be great. A part time evening job including food could be good. Your house mates will probably turn out to be great. But no matter if not as its not forever. Keep an open mind and don't get too involved too soon.
As the weather gets better and lighter you will enjoy the walk to and from work and can investigate your immediate area. I am quite excited on your behalf. Chin up it will be fine.

penjil · 05/01/2024 01:48

A room on your own floor for £450 a month including all bills sounds like a bargain!

Paint the walls, and try to buy a small table and chair that is the right height, so you can eat at it, like your own mini kitchen table.

endofthelinefinally · 05/01/2024 01:56

My dd lived in a similar set up for a couple of years. I bought her a kettle and a small slow cooker. She had a little table in her room and there was a microwave in the shared kitchen. There was a big fridge freezer in the kitchen so everyone had one shelf each. Luckily the other people didn't steal food.
If the other people are quiet that is a real plus.

Fmlgirl · 05/01/2024 06:51

I’ve lived in houseshares and as far as this one goes, it sounds pretty reasonable imho. Please just keep reminding yourself that it’s only temporary. Once come spring, you’ll hopefully also be able to do more stuff outside the house.

StoatofDisarray · 05/01/2024 07:01

Spend a bit of money on portable things you will take to your new home, like a nice armchair or a posh bookcase. Take time shopping for something you really love. It will kill time and keep your spirits up. If you don't have the room for furniture how about concentrating on excellent quality bedding instead? It will remind you that this is temporary and you're buying for the future every time you use it in your room and when you move into your new place you will have a few gorgeous bits of furniture/bedding to get you started.

Luddite26 · 06/01/2024 07:14

Hope you are feeling a bit better about your new place and get your TV sorted today. Hope you can have a good weekend.

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