How to Find a Roommate

Finding a roommate can be a frustrating and overwhelming task. However, there are ways to make the process more manageable. The key to success is to be proactive, prepared and aware of the resources available to you.

Determine What You Want

As you start your roommate search, determine what type of person you want to live with. Do you want to share a home with a person of the opposite gender? Can you tolerate living with a messy person? Do you mind if your roommate smokes in the apartment/house? Can you live with someone who has a pet? Make a list of what you want in a roommate and identify the qualities that are most important to you. Evaluating your needs should make your roommate search easier because it will make you aware of what you want and don’t want.

Be Thorough in Your Search!

You should begin looking for a roommate as soon as you decide you need one! It is never too early to start your search. The more potential roommates you meet and apartments you see, the more likely you are to find a home that you will be happy living in.

Nowadays, there are many methods for finding a roommate/ apartment. Ask your friends if they have friends that are moving, read the classifieds, and explore online roommate-matching services. For a small fee, these online services allow users to browse profiles from a large database as well as create their own profiles. Regardless of what method(s) you use, be comprehensive because the more thorough your search, the more likely you are to make a good roommate match!

As you meet with potential roommates during your search process, always be aware of your personal safety. If you feel uncomfortable meeting a potential roommate by yourself, ask a friend to go with you, or ask to meet the person in a public place such as a coffee shop.

Be Honest

When meeting with potential roommates, don't try to pass yourself off as a non-smoker if you smoke, or a tidy person if your concept of neatness doesn’t involve cleaning! The person you end sharing a home with will inevitably find out about your habits so you might as well be upfront about them before you move in together! Be honest about your habits and lifestyle because if the other person knows what to expect, and vice versa, it will make living together easier in the long run.

Look for a Roommate That Has Similar Likes and Dislikes

Finding a roommate in which you have much in common with can make living together more enjoyable. Before meeting with potential roommates, evaluate what you want. Determine what type of lifestyle you want to lead and what type of personality you think you would get along best with. Also, start thinking about how you want important household chores to be handled, such as cleaning the bathroom or other common areas. Try and take into account all the different variables that go along with having a roommate because these variables will inevitably affect your roommate experience and your overall happiness.

Don’t Prioritize the Variables That Are Less Important to You

While it is important to have things in common with people that you live with, do not go overboard trying to find someone who is exactly like you. Although demographic criteria such as age, gender, sexual preference is important, it may be less important to you (or vice versa) than behavioral variables such as cleanliness, partying habits, guest policies, etc. The bottom line is: Evaluate your personal preferences, but be realistic.

Reply Quickly if You are Interested

If you meet a person that you believe will be a good roommate for you, be proactive! Don’t rush into anything before learning all the facts, but also don’t let a great opportunity pass you by.

Do Your Research

Before signing a lease with a new roommate, you should get some basic background information on the person you’ll be sharing your home with. Perhaps ask to speak with a former roommate of theirs to get an idea of what they are really like to live with.

Finding a compatible roommate can be an exasperating experience, but is well-worth the effort in the end. Being prepared, knowing what you are looking for, and exploring your options will help ease the frustration of your search process. Try to have an open mind but at the same time be realistic and don’t rush into a situation that you are not certain about. Remember, your happiness could be at stake!