How2Day: Tips on Finding a Roommate

Apartment living is pricey, and it's nice to have someone to split the rent. apartment block image by Adrian Hillman from Fotolia.com
If you are like many people, you have a hard time paying rent. Even if you have the money, getting a roommate might be in your best interests for other reasons. A roommate is someone with whom to talk, share household responsibilities and---yes---split the rent. The wrong roommate, however, can be worse than no roommate, keeping you up late with loud music and conversation, ruining your belongings and even involving you in legal problems. Start your roommate search early and go through a screening process.

Before searching online or in the classified ads, ask your friends, co-workers and relatives if they know someone who is looking for a roommate. This way, you may find a roommate who isn't a total stranger. In addition, a friend of a friend is likely to have a few things in common with you. Rooming with a close friend or romantic partner, however, is not advisable, as it could compromise your relationship. (See Reference 1.)

If you can't get a recommendation from your family and friends, look for roommate advertisements on bulletin boards. Look in places that are familiar to you. Examples are local colleges, coffee shops, libraries and bookstores. Alternately, you can post an ad---omitting your name and using an email address, instead, as the point of contact. (See Reference 1.)

In advance, email potential search matches with screening questions if you have strong feelings about smoking, drinking, pets, etc. This can weed out undesirable candidates right away and save you time in the search process. After you have screened, email or phone the remaining potential matches and set up a time and place to meet in person. If you already have your own place, you can give your potential roommate a tour when you meet.

Ask casual questions about your prospective roommate's tastes and habits to ensure they are compatible with your own. Examples: "What is your schedule like?" "What do you like to do for fun?" "What kind of music do you listen to?" "What are some of your favorite restaurants around here?" These friendly questions can help you assess whether your roommate will annoy you by conflicting with your sleep schedule, cooking foods with a strong odor or playing music you don't like. (See Reference 2.) Later in the interview, discuss potential scenarios and house rules ahead of time to avoid conflicts and resentment later. Important topics you need to discuss include guest visitation, girlfriends/boyfriends, appliance and electronic device sharing, parties, quiet time, chores, and the division of grocery purchases and other mutual expenses. Set up guidelines and stick to them. (See Reference 3.)

How2Day