Choosing A Roommate

Roommates—scary thought, isn't it? If you don't know the person well, there's really no way you can find out except by trial and error...but here are some things to consider:

• Do you want a place to study or party or equal bits of both?
• Find out what a prospective roommate's habits are. Does he or she smoke (or do you)? What about alcohol or drugs?
• Ask about tastes in music—does classical or world beat music set your teeth on edge? If so, make it known.
• Are you a homebody or do you prefer going out? How about that prospective roommate?
• In the same vein, are you an early riser or a night owl? If the former, avoid the latter...unless you decide in advance to establish designated quiet hours.
• Overnight guests—yes, no, special occasions? This is an important thing to plan ahead for...especially if your place is rather small. There's nothing worse than feeling uncomfortable in your own apartment if your roommate has frequent uninvited guests. Especially if they empty the fridge or commandeer the TV remote.
• Borrowing, does it bother you or could you just not care less? This includes not just clothing but computer or computer time, books, etc.
• Be sure your new roommate is financially responsible. Remember, it may be your name on the lease which makes you legally liable to pay the full rent. Whatever your budget, rent and utilities should come first.
• Pets? If you don't like pets or are allergic or like some pets but not others make it known right out.

And once you've found someone you think you could possibly live with, then you must have "the talk". Read more...

Try RoommateAccess.com for finding a roommate.