Moving into a new apartment always comes with a set of exciting challenges. If you’re planning (or hoping) to move in with another person, picking that roommate is right up at the top of that list. A well-chosen roommate has the ability to make a living situation much more enjoyable and affordable, offering you the appropriate mix of availability and privacy (and on-time bill paying) that you desire. However, a poorly chosen roommate can make any living arrangement, no matter how ideal otherwise, eminently painful. The last thing you want is a stressful situation brewing in your own home—after all, it should be the place you take refuge from your daily stresses. With that in mind, here are some tips for picking out the best roommate for you.
First, list what qualities you would consider ideal in a roommate. Think about your own traits during this exercise. Do you treasure a measure of peace and quiet when you come home after a hard day’s work? Chances are you’d prefer someone who is similar than someone who’s constantly inviting half the apartment building over for hors d’oeuvres.
Next, talk to friends. Ask them if they know of anyone looking to make a move in the near future. Also consider posting a classifieds ad in a local online forum, mentioning traits you’re looking for in a tactful, casual way. A demanding, bulleted list of roommate requirements will scare prospects away so fast it’ll make your head spin.
Finally, schedule interviews with any prospects you might find. The most important thing to keep in mind, when first meeting a potential roommate, is to be completely honest with yourself and with them. Don’t try to make yourself something that you’re not! If you have a less-than-stellar cleaning record, that’s totally fine; just don’t insist that you scour the floors with a toothbrush when your roomie-to-be asks about your orderliness. If she decides that’s a deal-breaker, that’s okay—you just avoided butting heads down the road.
Looking for an apartment for rent with a new roomie? Great! We’re here to help. Using our search tools, you can find an apartment in cities, towns, and hamlets all across America. We’re particularly fond of Dallas apartments, Phoenix apartments, Austin apartments and Seattle apartments, but search anywhere your heart fancies. Happy hunting!
