How to Look for a Roommate

The cost of living just keeps going up. You might find that you are struggling to make your rent or mortgage payment each month. If you have an extra bedroom in your home and are not opposed to the idea of living with someone you may not otherwise know, consider looking for a roommate. When you know where to look for one, what questions to ask and how to set ground rules and boundaries, it does not need to be an intimidating quest.

Instructions

1. Determine what type of person you want to live with before placing any ads or signing up with any matching agencies. Make a list of ideal traits your roommate would have. Make another list of habits and situations you absolutely cannot tolerate, such as smoking or pets. Make a third list of traits you are not crazy about, but you can endure.

2. Place ads in publications you read regularly and post them on websites and at locations you frequent. This will increase the chance that you will find a roommate with similar opinions and tastes as you.

3. Be completely upfront and honest. While you should be polite and kind, do not pretend to be someone you are not when meeting or talking to a potential roommate. If you are a smoker--even if you plan on quitting--let them know. If you like to stay up late and sleep until noon on weekends, be straightforward. By letting candidates know your habits and traits, you can stave off problems later.

4. Get a little nosy. You should run a background check of some sort on a possible roommate, and perhaps even a credit check. Go beyond that, though. Ask about reasons for moving, length of employment and dates, and about friends or family members who might drop by unexpectedly or spend the night.

5. Visit your potential roommate's current home. You can get a firsthand look at what her housekeeping skills are like, how much furniture and other belongings she will bring into your home, and perhaps meet a present roommate.

Tips & Warnings

• Always get a signed, legal agreement before letting someone move into your home. If you rent your house or apartment, make sure your landlord approves of you bringing in a roommate.

• Although it might be tempting, it's generally best not to make a roommate out of a friend. Living with someone changes the whole dynamic and could damage your friendship.

Resources

• Roommate Locator Service