Renting Tips: Significant Angles to Check before Having a Roommate

Being a tenant can be burdensome especially if you are having some issues financially. Aside from the personal needs that you need to purchase, you will also be obliged to pay the rent of the place that you are currently living in. That is why in most urban areas, having a housemate or roommate is being practiced by some renters.

There are many benefits of having a roommate in your place. Aside from the financial aspect, wherein you may save from the rent and utilities, you may also have a helping hand when it comes to household chores. In an article published in Love Live Health, they also emphasized the health benefits of having a roommate aside from the financial benefits:

The Benefits of Living with a Roommate

Recent research from Brigham Young University, however, indicates that living with someone is actually a boon for your health and wellbeing. In fact, living alone-whether or not you feel lonely as a result-actually puts you at a 32% increased risk of death.  

Whether you're feeling down and worried, or even happy and excited, it's important to have someone to talk to about what you're going through. A roommate is usually a good listener simply due to proximity and, if you return the favor, he or she will probably listen with a sympathetic ear. Read full article...

However, like any other dealings, there could also be some negative consequences in having a roommate. Though you may have someone to share with the payment of the rent, there could also be instances that your roommate's share would be late, so the burden will still be on you alone. In sense they can be an extra baggage for you to carry, instead of a helping hand. This is also a similar comment of DMCI Homes Leasing in their published article citing the pros and cons of having a roommate:

Advantages And Disadvantages of Living With a Roommate

Yes, a condo roommate may be an extra baggage for all the unfulfilled tasks and responsibilities. You may have talked about dividing the chores and even the bills. However, if your partner does not understand the gravity of the responsibility, then you will be responsible for reminding your roommate to pay all the bills or to clean the cupboards. If you are unlucky and get a roommate like this, you will find yourself doubly stressed for constantly reminding what needs to be done while paying all the bills. See original post...

There is really a need to reflect on whether you are ready to have a roommate or not. It can be a double edged sword, so try to ponder on such option. The main concern here is choosing the right housemate or roommate that may go along with you in a harmonious manner. It just a matter of asking the right question and doing it the right way. Phirin Ha suggested that you should be prepared and always be honest while having an interview with a probable housemate:

How not to: Have an awkward housemate interview

Write down a list of questions to help assess if the person will be a good fit. Don't be afraid to ask questions about all aspects of their lives.

 Ask about their preferences, music tastes, food tastes and cultural beliefs. It's crucial information as even minor differences could make them incompatible.

Give the interviewee a chance to ask you questions and answer honestly. This may also be a good chance to tell them about your habits as well. This can save awkward moments later on. Check original post...