Apartment Living, Roommates, Roommate Search, Apartment Life
Living with a roommate means you always have a built-in Netflix-binging partner, but finding the perfect person to watch an entire season of Orange is the New Black with can be a difficult task. Here are four tips to take into consideration during your next roommate search so that you end up with someone compatible.
- Don't rush it. The worst way to start a roommate search is under intense pressure, financial or otherwise. If you know you need someone to move in within a few months, or if the end of your own lease is coming up, start the search well in advance. You want ample time to make the right decision; don't go scrambling and end up with a person who's difficult to live with.
- Consider lifestyle. Are you a night owl, or a morning person? Do you hate dirty dishes sitting in the sink, or are you more concerned about who's taking out the trash? Knowing your pet peeves and understanding your own deal breakers are a big part of the roommate-searching process. Find someone who lives the same way as you do, and who exhibits the same roommate traits.
- Ask around. You can always go to Craigslist to find a roommate, but before you do, ask around. When you find a roommate who someone else vouches for, you can go into a lease with more confidence. Aim for a friend of a friend; someone with whom you're already close might actually be difficult to live with, at least if many other areas of your life tend to intersect.
- Go with your gut. If a roommate candidate approaches any situation dishonestly, or you feel as though they aren't being totally straight with you, trust your instinct. A small problem during the roommate search could turn into a big issue down the road.
11 Steps for Choosing the Right Roommate [Life Edited]
Who Makes the Best Roommates? [About.com]
Tips For Finding the Right Roommate [Roomster]
