Rent is getting more expensive, which depending on where you live might not make it feasible for you to be able to live alone. Bummer, we know. It’s the harsh reality of life post-college that can also carry-on into your 20’s and 30’s, depending on what city you’re in. Living in a specific area could also be determined by your job where you might not want to spend hours commuting everyday. One way to save money, cut some of your expenses and still live in your desired area, is to move in with a roommate. A common and very cost-effective option for young adults, however there are a few things to consider before you up and move in with someone new. Read on to check out what to ask to determine if your prospective roommate is right for you.
#1 Reach out to your network:
Before you try to find someone that you don’t know, reach out to your network of friends. Send an email to your friends or family members or post a note on Facebook, telling your network that you are looking for a new roommate. Be very specific with what area you are looking for and when you need your new roommate. Also, make it clear that they should pass it along to anyone that they might know that is also looking.
#2 Put out an ad:
If you aren’t able to connect or find a place with anyone in your network, place an ad on a local neighborhood message board or on Craigslist. In your ad, include a description of yourself, where you want to live, the rent you are looking to pay as well as any pertinent details about your potential living situation and/or needs such as wanting a non-smoker, non-drinker or someone that works the same hours as you.
#3 Set up a time to talk:
Dedicate some time to carefully go through your emails and messages to better assess the candidates. Create a short-list of prospective roommates and set up a time to speak them over the phone. This will allow you to get to know your potential roommate a little better where you can ask them additional questions such as where they work, where they currently live, what they like to do on the weekends, if they are neat, to name a few suggestions.
#4 Meet your prospective roommates:
After your screening calls, you’ll have a better idea of who you want to meet in person. Pick a local coffeeshop or park to meet where you can talk further and get to know each other. After your meetings, you should have a good idea of whom you feel comfortable and safe living with. For extra assurance, ask for references –both personal and professional–to get a full picture of your prospective roommate.
#5 Get to know each other:
After you make your decision, spend some time with your new roommate. Whether that’s a casual breakfast or going out for drinks, the more time you spend with your roommate will allow you to better know them before your moving day.
#6 Discuss bills, cleaning and more:
While bills aren’t exactly a fun topic to discuss, they are really important for you and your new roommate to figure out before you move in together. Make sure that you are both clear on whether you are sharing the cost on all of the bills, including a discussion on how you will share food (or not) and how you will split up the costs of other household items like toilet paper, paper towels, etc. You can also discuss how you will organize the cleaning, communal items and which items are off limits to each person. Discussing these things before you move in can help to avoid an uncomfortable situation when you are in your new apartment or house. Other things to discuss: get togethers at the house, guests sleeping over, work schedules, general wake-up times, etc.
#7 Create a roommate contract:
After you discuss your billing system, draft this down on paper and make sure that you and your roommate sign it. While this might seem cold, it is important to have everything clearly stated so everyone knows how costs will be shared.
#8 Look for a place together:
Now the fun part: actually finding your new apartment or home. Create a short-list of criteria for your new place, including how many rooms you need and your maximum rent. Visit a few places together until you are both happy with the options.
Move in! Call you your local movers, pack up all of your stuff and enjoy your place with your new roomie!
Moving in with a roommate can be challenging. It’s best to be as prepared as possible as you get to know your roommate. If everything works out, check out local movers for rates to help make the moving process easy.
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