However, there are lessons here for the kids either way. Why not use this situation as an opportunity to teach kids about how things work in the “real world”? Let them see what the bills really look like, and what it really means to take care of a home. As a graduate of Western, I have seen (and lived in) more than a few rentals that were used and abused year after year by kids who had no reason to care about the homes they occupied. I didn’t know the first thing about the real costs of living when I was in school. In fact, that has a lot to do with why I wrote this piece- I have long wished that I had known enough to buy a house back then, rather than throw away years of rent money.

I am certainly not advocating the spoiling of anybody’s kids. Although my tuition was covered by student loans, I had to make my own money to pay for everything else, which meant I had to work from day-one, all the way through college. I believe I am better off for it. But that’s just me…Not every student is the same, and not every parent agrees in that approach. There is certainly something to be said for allowing your child to focus their energies 100% on their studies. Or, why not come up with a hybrid plan? Buy a place for the investment opportunity and make your kid pay rent. That way they’re still forced to get a taste of the real world, and you can recoup some of that tuition expense down the road. Everybody wins!

So the $14,000 I paid for rent while in college was a learning/life lesson? Sounds expensive. Sounds like another year in a state school.

Why not teach by doing? Why not have the college career be an opportunity for investment in your future and your childs?

I see your point, not spoiling your child in his/her first year away from home. But the concept here should be “they need shelter, Shelter can be a good investment, take a look at it as a solid possibility, so you don’t have to spend your golden years in a bunk bed because you were trying to teach your 18 year old another lesson”

Regarding who needs another sheltered college grad, the folks under the overpasses in Whatcom County would like a word with you.

Call or write mum and dada often but don’t ensnare their liability while college student learns what wings are. I find the method of selling via umbilical cord is distasteful and of questionable value to any family unit or individuals within. Unless a tremendous umbrella policy is in full effect…this idea is financially foolish and even in the most positive spin…who needs another sheltered college grad?