In the past, people didn’t have much choice about where they lived. Many would just stay put where they grew up as if this were just the natural order of things.
Nowadays, though, it doesn’t have to be this way, and there’s much more freedom of movement.
Moving abroad is something people who want to save money should consider, as it’s easier than ever.
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It’s certainly feasible for people who work remotely, as they don’t need to live near a workplace.
Before making such a bold decision, it’s important to do thorough research and weigh the pros and cons.
Everyday living can be dramatically cheaper
It’s widely reported that the cost of living in the UK is rising rapidly, with the pound’s purchasing power declining each year.
Inflation is down from its worst point during the recent cost-of-living crisis, but it’s still rising – just at a slightly slower rate.
That means your weekly food shop is gradually getting more expensive, and there are no signs that this will change.
People in the UK are used to this reality now, but it’s not the same everywhere. In fact, there are many countries where everyday life can be much cheaper than it is here.
Countries in Southeast Asia are often cited as offering the best value for your money when it comes to food shopping.
In these countries, you can easily get cheap meals from local street stalls as well.
Housing costs are more affordable
Owning a house has long been seen as an important milestone, but it is harder than ever in the modern age and is no longer a viable option for many people.
Indeed, it may make less financial sense to take out a mortgage nowadays than to pay monthly rent on a property.
On top of that, you’ve also got gas and electric bills to consider, which have become astronomical in the UK.
If you want to cut costs on accommodation, there are many countries around the world known for low rents.
In Europe, Poland and Portugal are known for their affordable housing rates. Other countries, such as India and Colombia, offer much lower rents than the UK.
Is it realistic to sell up and leave?
If leaving the UK to cut costs sounds appealing, you’ll need to assess whether it’s realistic for you to do so.
For example, it’s important to consider schooling for the children and whether it will be cheaper abroad than in the UK.
One major factor is that many of us already have properties in the UK.
Luckily, it’s easier than ever to sell up quickly and move now, thanks to online services that sell your home for cash. It’s hassle-free, fast, and will leave you with a lump sum ready to set up a new life abroad.
With the internet making the world feel smaller and allowing people to work from anywhere, it makes more sense now to consider living outside the UK.
If you want to save money on everything from rent to food, many countries can help you do so.
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