You’re strong enough to have “been there, done that”, so you know what it’s like, and you have to agree that having one’s own place is the best of things. I was fortunate enough to have been able to buy (one-bed apt, no car space) at a good price, but whether renting or buying, the feeling of independence (and that’s what it’s about, isn’t it?) has to be the same.

And remember, as 007 says, the second time is “Yes, considerably…”

And on we go…

ghostlyvision: I love to travel, but I worry about the longterm implications of moving out during these turbulent times in the UK economy.

I moved out once before several years ago and had to return when things went downhill; I want the next time I move out to be forever so I’d like to make sure it’s not the wrong decision at this time. My mum gives me a hard time because she doesn’t like the way I look, she’s exactly the same with my brother who’s also overweight and lives in the house that she sold him. He just doesn’t let her bother him like I do.

I appreciate that there is a feeling of freedom when renting, but all my life I’ve been told to invest in property, that renting is throwing away money, etc. It’s hard to move out of that way of thinking.

Paige: thanks, it is a leap,

Capt: the last time I moved out, my relationship with my mum did improve. I definitely felt like she treated me like an adult. She even apologised for something!

Liane: Too true.

Not that I didn’t get on with my family, though there were the usual frictions, but it was just time, y’know?

I actually think I get on better with them better now – especially my parents, who began to see me more as my own man than as their son, if that makes sense?

But whatever you do, it’ll be right for you.

Trust your instincts.

To move out or not to move out that is the question. It’s something I’m thinking about at the moment and it’s a scary thought – going out there on your own.

But sometimes you need to do something like this for personal growth.

I just have to pluck up the courage!

I have only read limited amounts of your site so far but from what I have read I find it hard to believe someone who has traveled so extensively has a problem with moving away from home?

And owning a home is not the end all to having what you want in life. Take it from a confirmed renter for all of my adult life. I like the freedom to pick up and go at any stage I choose and have no commitment to property.

And, as a Mom myself … I am wondering if your Mom is not making life so easy for you because she is trying to help you. I love my children but some day they have to leave the nest.. really, for good.

Just keep in mind that “no” is sometimes the best answer.