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Sharing a living space can have many benefits, such as splitting the rent and having someone to socialize with. It’s still important to consider a few things before taking the plunge. Watch out for these warning signs before choosing your next roommate.
Matching Your Compatibility
When letting another person in your space, being picky and upfront about expectations is crucial for a successful living situation.
Multiple users suggested having an open and honest conversation about various aspects of living together, such as cleanliness, noise levels, schedules, pet ownership, shared space usage, chores, etc.
A user narrated his positive experience of living with roommates since graduating from school because he always ensured they were compatible before deciding to live with them.
Financial Implications
Financial implications and potential costs associated with shared living arrangements are equally important.
For example, the cost of rent and utilities and household supplies, damages, and other expenses may arise.
“We are only net negative ~$200 a month living”, they mentioned. This resulted from their roommate’s carelessness around the house, breaking things, wear and tear, and not paying the rent for seven months.
Contrast in Living Habits
One agitated user described how his roommate often forgot to flush the toilet and would also let his dogs wipe themselves off against the couch.
Having completely different living habits can be a big red flag. That’s why it becomes important to know about a person thoroughly before letting them in. If you prefer a quiet and tidy living environment, living with a roommate who enjoys hosting frequent parties or has a more relaxed attitude towards cleanliness may not be ideal.
Non-Healthy Habits
One user described his conflict with a roommate who had unhealthy habits. His roommate’s habits held him back despite taking proper measures to live a healthy lifestyle.
Cleaning Habits
Some people are neat freaks, while others are happy to live in a dirty environment. It’s important to talk to someone about their cleaning habits before deciding to have them in your house to avoid cleaning up someone else’s mess.
Personal Space and Privacy
Personal space and privacy can become a major issue between roommates, and multiple users have shared their disappointing experiences of invaded privacy.
“My roommate would come into my room without even knocking.”
Not Splitting the Rent
It’s important to have a rental agreement that covers everything from rent and utilities to cleaning and maintenance, guest policies, and lease terms.
One user shared his dreadful experience, mentioning that his roommate wasn’t paying rent for over five years. Let’s also not forget the security deposit – nobody wants to lose their hard-earned cash because their roommate skipped town.
Irresponsible Attitude
Some people are messy, loud, or may steal from you. All of this makes living with a roommate more challenging.
One user expressed how her roommate’s irresponsible attitude made her life a nightmare. She commented, “These girls constantly take my things, or return them dirty…”
Bringing in Guests
Roommates are like a box of chocolates – you never know what you’ll get!
A few users shared their difficult situation with unwelcomed guests at odd hours. Whether you’re a social butterfly or a homebody, respecting each other’s space and keeping them in the loop before inviting anyone to prepare them mentally.
The Bathroom Hog
Imagine your roommate taking hour-long showers and leaving their toiletries scattered over the sink. One user commented, “You’re lucky if you can squeeze in a quick brush of your teeth in the morning.”
This problem may seem insignificant initially, but it can be a source of conflict over time.
Should You Live with Roommates?
Living with a roommate can be a rewarding experience, but it’s important to consider these points before making a decision.
Open communication, mutual respect, and a clear understanding of each other’s expectations are key to a successful roommate relationship.
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12 Obvious Signs You Grew Up as an Only Child
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