If you’re thinking about renting an apartment you might be asking yourself, “Should I pick a roommate?” Another question you might find yourself asking is “How do I pick a good roommate?” There are a number of different factors you should take time to consider and a variety of questions to ask before making your final pick.
When choosing a roommate you are agreeing to share you personal space with that person, and the two of you will be spending a lot of time together. To make sure that everything goes well, consider these eight tips, covering everything from living with pets to divvying up household duties.
1. Pick a roommate with the same schedule
Are you a night owl, or do you turn in by 9pm each night? When picking your roommate try to choose someone with a similar schedule, this way you can both be on the same routine.
2. Find out if they have pets
At McLife properties we welcome pets of all breeds and sizes, with no restrictions or extra monthly fees. You can rest-assured that your pets will be welcome here under our We Love Pets Policy. When choosing a roommate, find out if they have pets. Ask about their responsibilities and what they intend to do with the pet when you’re not around. If you have a pet, make sure that you disclose this information. While we may love pets, not everyone else does, be considerate of allergies and other preferences.
3. Make sure they can pay rent on time
It is best to live with someone who has a steady job. Job hopping is a red flag. If their portion of the rent will be paid by someone else, like their parents, for example, be sure to ask when they receive the money and have an open discussion about paying rent, utilities and other living costs.
4. Choose someone with a similar housekeeping style
Housekeeping duties are a major cause of stress between ill-fit roommates. If you can’t stand the sight of dishes in the sink and vacuum the carpet everyday, you’ll want to choose a roommate with a similar housekeeping style. If you do have differences, consider divvying up chores between each other.
5. Ask about guests
The more the merrier! Well, not for everyone. Ask your potential roommate about guests, like how many and how often.
6. Look farther than your friends
Friends can make great roommates, but your closest buddies are not your only option. If you have a friend that you think might make a good roommate, evaluate them just like you would do with anyone else before signing a rental agreement together.
7. Conduct a roommate interview
It’s not unusual to seek out a roommate online or get a recommendation from a friend or acquaintance. Get to know your potential roommate via a roommate interview. Get together at a local coffee shop and discuss all of the questions and concerns you might have. If you both agree that is it is a good fit you should move forward.
8. Determine if you will share household items and food
Be upfront with your potential roommate and have a conversation about the amount of household items you think you will be sharing between yourselves as well as grocery shopping duties, who will buy food and whether or not it will be shared. Leaving these topics undiscussed will likely lead to stress, resentment and anger in some cases. If you do plan to share, come to an agreement of how the cost will be split evenly between yourselves, and if you use the last bottle of shampoo or drink the last of the milk, replace it.
