A roommate can certainly make life easier, that is, if you find the right person! Roommates help share the rent, utilities, and apartment responsibilities but living in close quarters with someone incompatible will leave you begging for the day your lease comes to an end. When it comes to choosing a roommate, don’t worry! I’ve got your back with these 5 simple tips to picking the right roomie for your space.
- Create a List of Roommate Traits
Now, this can be tricky but if you’re realistic, you can find someone who is compatible with your personality and interests. The list should include preferred character traits (tidy, well-organized, punctual, non-smoker etc.) you can add a list onto a platform but don’t add 100 traits that are impossible to meet cause you’ll never find a roomie that way.
2. Find a Roommate Website
A platform dedicated to roommates will attract people who are serious about renting. Most of these websites and applications will have security features, the option to set rates, and some of them are free to download.
3. Social Media
If you can find a social media website dedicated to roommate finding, then along with some research and a very close look at user comments, nay help you find a hidden gem! Be sure to do your homework though.
4. Interview Potential Roommates
It is best to choose at least 3 or 4 candidates that meet your criteria. take some time to visit their social media pages or online bios. While this may seem like cyber-stalking, it’s far from it! Social media posts can help you gauge their lifestyle and a little bit of their background. Meet them for an interview in person. This can include a chat over coffee or a meeting in the local park; anywhere where you will both feel relaxed.
5. How to Interview
Make the interview informal. Most people may feel intimated at a drill sergeant approach! Casually ask questions, describe your current regime, and be friendly which allows others to open up a little more, or just be themselves.
After every interview, jot down a few factors that you liked or disliked about the candidate. Once you have assessed all candidates use your list to weigh the pros and cons of each.
6. Create a Contract
A new roommate for a rental must be overseen by the landlord. If you have been renting for some time, discuss with the landlord whether you can find a roommate to join the lease.
If you own the property, they will be included in a lease but apart from their rental agreement, stipulate what is allowed on the property for the duration of their stay. Examples include:
No pets
No smoking
No loud music
No parties, etc.
7. Background Check
When a landlord performs an application evaluation this will include a background check. While most are unsure of performing a background check, some individuals are not always honest about their history. Check with your state law whether you are legally required to inform applicants of a background check.
8. Protect Yourself
From research to interviews, always learn of state law concerning roommates, sub-leases, and the steps you can take to legally protect against a problematic roomie that you can’t get rid of!
Due diligence is key to finding a roomie who will add value and put your mind at ease.
