Choosing a Roommate

Some people moving out on their own may have a friend or two that they would like to live with. Moving in together with friends can be a great arrangement, not only does it save money but there is the added benefit of support from people who are already known and liked. This close support can make transitioning to life on your own more comfortable.

For other people, the question of whether or not to live with another person may be connected to budget considerations. Many people would prefer to live on their own so they can have freedom, space, and privacy, but living alone is often not financially possible. Much of the time, two or more people can live together more cheaply than on their own.

Regardless of why two people decide to live together, the choice of who to live with is very important. Every person is unique in their own way and we all have our own likes and dislikes and moods and preferences. Some people like to stay up late, while others are in bed early. Some people must watch all the football games on TV each weekend, and others prefer movies. Some people love to cook, while others would rather order fast food. Some people are very neat while others choose to be sloppy with items around the house.

Living habits and preferences may seem not so important when discussed separately or briefly, especially when the issues may be overshadowed by the excitement of the impending move. But people considering living together must give serious thought to the long-term. Sure, the fact that a potential roommate has some conflicting behaviors and odd habits may not seem like a big issue at first, but how about after a couple months of dealing with those odd behaviors every single day? Then things may become unbearable and make your life hard. Before deciding to live with anybody, potential roommates really should spend a good deal of time getting to know one another.

Roommate Agreements

Roommates will affect each others' lives emotionally and financially. You must choose your roommates carefully and work with them if problems should arise.

If you will be living with roommates who you do not know, be sure to ask them some questions and request that the landlord let you sign a separate lease.  The lease should make you responsible only for your share of the rent and for damages caused by you or your guests.  Landlords may, but are not required to let you and your roommates sign separate leases.

Do not assume that a best friend will make the best roommate.  After you have signed a lease you may find that you have different ideas about cleaning, visitors, bills or other issues which could become major issues as time goes on. 

To avoid roommate conflicts, you should think about writing a roommate agreement with all potential roommates and sign a roommate agreement. The roommate agreement should establish each roommate's obligation to the others.  All roommates should sign and date the agreement. Click here for a  Sample Roommate Agreement (PDF).