So I've read this whole thread and here is my advice. Ever try renting a room instead? Its a good way to get out w/o having the hassle of your own place. Meet some new people too. You'll probably have to give up the tank for a while or, downsize. Arround here tanks are like any other pet or, more so as we take a pet deposit plus insurance and, don't accept tanks anyplace over 1 story. Flooding yourself is one thing, flooding the guy downstairs is a nightmare! (I'm a landlord) Also, we don't accept cosignors that are not family members and that do not live in state. Another thing to think about is, my power cost in maintaining a large tank is about $100/month as is. Give up the cig's for your health alone. (We also charge for repainting and carpet cleaning a place if its been smoked in) And, if your considering employment, you may want to figure this into a living situation as I hate to commute and live 2 miles from work. But yeah, as mentioned, time to spread your wings and fly away.