The Best Tips for Surviving Life With Your Roommate
If you are still in the process of choosing the best roommate(s) to live with you and split costs in your apartment, you may find that it can be a stressful process with many aspects to consider. It can be difficult to start out on life “on your own” if this is your very first apartment, and costs can pile up, which is why it can be a smart move to choose a roommate – but you want to be sure that this roommate meets all of your expectations and is somebody you can rely on. This is why it is always important to plan ahead when you are seeking a roommate so you have enough time to look over the fine details and make considerations before it’s too late. Today we want to share some tips with you on how to survive life with your newest roommate(s) to make life easier on everyone!
How to Keep the Peace With Your Roommate
Doing Research on a Prospective Roommate: When it comes to meeting somebody that you could be spending a lot of time with in your apartment, you want to do your research – especially when this is not a long-time friend or family member. You may think that, just because somebody shares some of the same interests, you will instantly click. However, this is not always the case. Be prepared by looking ahead and asking questions about the person to those who know them, as well as past experience with their living situations.
Setting Initial Ground Rules: This rule applies to all apartments, especially those on-campus at college. You may not be a fan of rules but it is important to have them as a way to come to agreements on specific issues that may arise, such as when “quiet” times take place in your apartment or who cleans what. You don’t want to wait until you have a mess to clean up – get these problems sorted out from the very start, and you will be thankful later.
Good Housekeeping: You may argue over cleaning at times. This is why it is important to manage the cleaning in your household by making a schedule that works for you. Take everybody’s opinions into consideration on these matters.
Balancing Social Lives: You may enjoy having friends over at times, but not all the time. You never want to make every day a disturbance to your roommates and likewise for you, so make sure that you always ask friends before a major event or if somebody wants to spend the night. Coming to an agreement can avoid a fight.
Having a Backup Plan: You never know when a roommate is going to back out of the lease or return home when the lease must be renewed. As a result, it is always wise to have a backup plan full of potential choices, or being able to manage an apartment on your own. This will keep you feeling safe and secure in the long run for major decisions that could have a lasting impact.