If finding a roommate is one of your current stressors, you’re not alone. Finding not only a roommate, but the right roommate, can be a difficult task if you don’t have any immediate, probable options on the horizon. For instance, if you know someone in the same stage of life as you who’s also in need of a roommate and an apartment in the same city, then consider yourself lucky.
For those of us who have to fend for ourselves and venture out into the rental universe in search of a new roommate, let us take this journey together. After all, with the right tips and tricks, finding the perfect roommate will just be another step you’ll ace along your rental journey.
Identify What You Are Looking for in a Roommate
Before you start your quest for a new roommate, determine the qualities you’re looking for. Those moving to a new city might want their roommate to double as a friend. Someone just looking to cut costs might just want a quiet and tidy roommate. Someone struggling with their credit or rental history could be looking for a roommate with a stellar credit and rental past. All situations are valid, but it’s crucial to decide why you want a roommate and what you want the relationship to look like.
Once you figure out what relationship you’re looking for, identify what qualities meet your goal. For example, the renter looking for a friend should ask about hobbies and interests when interviewing for a roommate. The person looking to cut costs with a quiet, reliable roommate should ask about employment status, income stability, and schedule, while a renter with no credit should be looking for the seasoned renter with a glowing credit score.
No matter what you’re looking for in a roommate, having a plan before you start your search will save you a lot of time and frustration.
Search for Roommates Online
There are many valid roommate finder sites out there that are perfect for those of us who don’t know of anyone looking for an apartment at the same time and in the same place as us. More people than you think are in the same circumstance as you, and one of those people will likely be your next roommate.
Top Roommate Finder Websites and Apps
Keep your eyes, mind, and options open, and consider some of these roommate apps and sites:
Do any of these helpful resources sound familiar to you? If not, be sure to check out each one individually to see which best suits you and what you’re looking for. There are a few outstanding qualities about these roommate finder apps that make them stand out from the rest. They allow you to search for a city or specific location, choose your preference between looking for a rental or looking for a roommate, set a maximum rent price, set a move-in date, and filter your roommate search based on specific factors, including age range. These roommate finder apps and websites understand that and make it easy to filter your search. There are many people out there looking for a roommate. You just have to look, and there’s no better way to search for something than online.
Find a Roommate Through a Mutual Connection
Friends and family are always great go-tos when it comes to finding a roommate. Just because your closest friends and family members aren’t looking for a roommate, doesn’t mean that their friends or friends-of-friends aren’t. It’s worth a shot, especially if you’re hoping to avoid the “random roommate” scenario. While some renters don’t mind sharing an apartment with someone they’re unfamiliar with, others find it more comforting to rent with someone they already know or share a mutual connection with. And if that’s the case, then finding a roommate through a friend’s or family member’s connection is probably your best bet.
Post for a Roommate on Social Media
If you’re active on social media, then this is a great place to find a roommate. You can either post about needing a roommate on your own personal account, or you can request to join local roommate search groups and pages. In these groups, you’ll find others just like yourself who are looking for a roommate. Some renters will be searching for:
- A new roommate and a new apartment
- A new roommate for their current apartment
- A renter who already has an apartment with a spare room that’s looking for a roommate
If you plan to post on social media, either on your account or on a group page, make sure to include the area you live in, how much you want to spend on rent, the lease length you’re looking for, and other important factors such as your personal preferences. And most importantly, make sure that you take the necessary safety screening precautions before signing a lease with someone you met on the Internet.
Questions to Ask Your Potential Roommates
Once you’ve found a few potential roommates, get to know them by asking a few questions. Whether you discovered that perfect roommate online or through a mutual connection, it’s important to ask your potential roommate(s) questions that relate to your schedule, preferences, and overall lifestyle. Before you sign a lease with this renter, consider asking questions such as:
- Do you have a steady job with a reliable income?
- Do you have any pets?
- Do you have any allergies I should be aware of?
- What is your day-to-day schedule like?
- What is your opinion on overnight guests?
Create a Roommate Agreement
After finally finding a roommate and signing a lease agreement, aling on general rules and logistics by creating a roommate agreement. Drafting a roommate agreement that both you and your roommate contribute to and approve of is the best way to solve problems before they start.
Your roommate agreement should include quiet hours, rules about guests, cleaning schedules, etc. It should also have a section detailing what you’re sharing and what you’re each bringing to the new place. If you’re buying anything together, the budget and items should be included as well. Your roommate agreement is the best way to make sure you and your housemates are aligned.
Frequently Asked Questions About Finding a Roommate
Should all roommates be on the lease?
Yes, any person over the age of 18 residing in the rental property needs to sign the lease agreement.
Is it recommended that my roommate and I draft and sign a roommate agreement?
Yes, making a roommate agreement is the best way to avoid issues and solve disputes if they arise.
Is it normal to ask for a background check or references?
Yes, if you don’t know your roommates, don’t be afraid to exchange references and do a background check. Safety should be a top priority when you’re renting with a stranger. Running a background check and talking to references will help give you peace of mind, or it could potentially save you from being in an unsafe situation.
