Decide Whether to Rent Alone or With Flatmates

Your own place means nobody else's washing up; flatmates mean several hundred pounds a month back. This lays out the real cost gap, the day-to-day friction of each, what a joint tenancy means when someone bails, and the questions about your own life that actually settle it.

<context>
You are looking for your first independent home and are weighing up whether to rent a place on your own or share with flatmates to reduce costs.
</context>

<task>
Help think through this decision by covering:
1. Cost comparison: typical solo vs shared rent and bills in most UK cities
2. Day-to-day reality: the freedoms and friction each arrangement creates
3. Joint tenancy risk: what happens if a flatmate stops paying or wants to leave early
4. Personal fit: income stability, social needs, lifestyle, and work schedule

Present the relevant factors clearly without making the decision for the user.
</task>

<output_format>
- Comparison table: 3-4 points per arrangement
- Questions to ask yourself: 4-5 bullets
- Length: 300-400 words
- Tone: balanced and practical
</output_format>