Single mom wants to try the area...am I going to make it? (Charleston: rentals, insurance)

[KarynO]

I have been living in seclusion in the mountains for several years...I'd like to come to the Charleston area for a fresh start...

I would be leaving my husband and starting new as a displaced house wife with a 5 year old. I'd be looking for a job in admin or entry level accounting clerk and a rental in a nice place that is safe, with decent schools and children to play with my lonely son.

I'll only have about 5 grand.

Can I make it...not will I, but could I?

All advice would be appreciated.

[xraydude]

I don't see why you couldn't make it. I will be doing the same thing later next spring. 5 grand should get you started. I would tell you to land a job first before you make the leap. But some times the only step you can take is that big one. good luck to you and your son.
RB

[KarynO]

for the encouragement.

[JerseyGirl217]

If possible, I would try and find a job first or at least a job opportunity to make sure that your $5k wont run out before landing an income. It IS possible to make it here, of course - a friend of mine is a single mom of 2 and she's making it work here. Good luck with everything!

[KarynO]

Jersey Girl....I'm wondering if folks are likely to rent to you if you haven't landed a job yet...is it hard to rent a place or are there a lot of vacancies due to the economy?

[wildwoodflower]

i am sure you can do it. especially if you make friends and have help with your child while you job hunt and work once finding a job. seems like your kiddo is kindergarten age, so maybe you can do this while they are at school... or find a job during school hours? five grand will run out quickly if you are not working to replace it. rentals, deposits, utilities getting turned on, groceries, school stuff, stc. so i also recommend coming first to job hunt a bit it you can. good luck!

[Cheri89]

Originally Posted by KarynO

Jersey Girl....I'm wondering if folks are likely to rent to you if you haven't landed a job yet...is it hard to rent a place or are there a lot of vacancies due to the economy?

Hi,

You said you are leaving your husband...I did the same thing (well actually he left me). Our separation agreement states the amount he is legally obligated to pay for support...the realty company considered that my source of income. Do you have a legal separation agreement drawn up by an attorney or a divorce decree?

These were my moving/set up expenses from VA Beach. You'll be moving from farther up north, so your gas/truck will be more, if that is what you are planning to do.

1. Uhaul and gas - Appx $1,000
2. 1st month rent and security deposit - $2,400
3. Pet Deposit - $300
4. Water deposit - $50
5. Cable/Internet (1 month prepaid) - $100
6. Restock pantry/fridge - $500
7. Misc household set up - $300
8. Credit is great, so no electric deposit was required.

Cheri

[Luvsdabeach]

Originally Posted by wildwoodflower

i am sure you can do it. especially if you make friends and have help with your child while you job hunt and work once finding a job. seems like your kiddo is kindergarten age, so maybe you can do this while they are at school... or find a job during school hours? five grand will run out quickly if you are not working to replace it. rentals, deposits, utilities getting turned on, groceries, school stuff, stc. so i also recommend coming first to job hunt a bit it you can. good luck!

I also wanted to add that when you transfer tags you pay property taxes on your auto (Every year). Also check into the cost difference in auto insurance.

[pawleyslady]

Hi, I'm new to these forums and was happy to find this topic. I've wanted to move south for years and have narrowed it down to coastal Carolina, New Orleans or the Florida panhandle.I'm single and my daughter is thinking of going to Coastal Carolina (transfer from U of Wisconsin).

I love the Pawleys Island area but think I would be better suited to a larger city. My biggest concern of course is employment. I do have Hospitality Industry experience but I know those jobs don't exactly pay great. I am currently a marketing assistant but with the economy that's a little dicey too.

Any thoughts would be greatly appreciated.

[KarynO]

Wow...thanks for all the info...these are just the kind of questions I have in my mind....believe it or not, in NH you don't have to carry insurance on your car...my water is free and you really don't have to pay upfront for cable etc...and as far as a pet deposit goes...lol...I actually have a flock of sheep...but they'll be staying...I live on almost 100 acres in the mountains....(although originally from Boston)...this will be quite an adventure.