The trials of renting

I probably should have thought more about my residential plans in my early 20’s.  Mum’s been bugging me for years about saving for a house, but I always had this thing in the back of my mind that I’d be working overseas and didn’t want to tie myself down.   I mean, at times, I love renting. I don’t have to pay for the water, or new paint jobs, repairs to the heating, and someone comes and takes our bins out once a week! Luxury! 

But now reality is sinking in. I have to pay all the rent tomorrow, by myself. My mate gave me some extra cash because he’s a good bloke, but it hasn’t lasted long. 

I’ve already interviewed 4 candidates so far. Note: “suitable” is not easy. One was complete fruit loop who spent most of the interview talking about his views on religion, another, totally lovely but was a nurse who worked at night (I’m a light sleeper), other was a “musician” without a job and smelled suspiciously of marijuana, and then finally, a young woman very attached to her cat (I’m allergic). 

I’ve got someone coming over tomorrow and its fingers crossed it’s someone easy going with a normal job.  You know, I really love my apartment; it’s so close to the city, right near all the cool bars, restaurants and markets and I can ride my bike to work.  If I ever bought a house, it would probably have to be out west where my grandparents live, and bless them, I’m quite content with obligatory birthdays and Christmas gatherings.

So, do I sacrifice my standard of living now, for a better one in 5-10 years? Or do I keep living the high life now, and pay the price later? The age old question continues……