Before signing a lease with your friends, it is important you truly know each other and have taken the time to discuss what you want your house environment to look like. Sharing a living space with a roommate can be a rewarding and cost-effective choice but it is not without its challenges. Here are some tips I have learned along the way to finding the perfect roommates.
1. Figure out what’s important to you
Before determining whether you are compatible with other students, you need to think about what matters most to you. For example, what are some of your non-negotiables? Personally, it was important for me to find people who would be okay if my dog ever came for a visit. After making this list, consider attributes that would be great but aren’t deal breakers. Clarifying your own expectations will make it easier to find a compatible roommate. It is important to remember you are not just figuring out how to get a roommate but how to find a good roommate for you!
2. Use social media to your advantage
There are many Facebook groups designated for rental properties and roommate searching in Kingston. Take the time to go through these groups as you can find mutual friends and learn about potential roommates based on their profiles. It was through a Facebook group where I found a sublet when I was going on exchange. When meeting people online, make sure you video call or meet in person to discuss your preferences and expectations. Before any decisions were made, I made sure I had a chance to talk to the individual via a zoom call.
3. Get to know your potential housemates
Prior to signing a lease agreement, it is essential you take the time to get to know one another. Queen’s OCLA has numerous resources available for students at: /ocla/housemate-resources. I recommend you play the “get to know your housemates!” game. There’s also a housemate agreement you can complete and a housemate hunting worksheet. It is also important to remember every household has conflict. This webpage has tips for resolving conflict between housemates.
4. Discuss finances and set ground rules early
Not only is it important to have similar values as the person you are living with but be in agreeance about finances. Be transparent about rent, utility costs and shared expenses like internet. It is also important to discuss how you may handle unexpected costs. Clear communication is a huge key to successful co-living. Establish ground rules for cleaning, noise levels, guest policies and shared spaces. Although some of these conversations may be awkward, it is essential to have them before moving in together to prevent conflicts from occurring later on.
5. Trust your gut
It is important you feel comfortable and at ease with your potential roommates. During your search, pay attention to warning signs and if someone avoids topics of finances or are unwilling to compromise, they may not be the best fit. Trust your instincts if something feels off. Remember you can be great friends with someone and be terrible roommates! Being friends doesn’t automatically mean your living situation is going to be ideal. Take the time to make sure you will all be happy to live together.
Finding the right roommate for you takes time and effort but is worth it for having a peaceful and enjoyable living environment. Prioritize communication, compatibility and respect to create a co-living arrangement that makes everyone involved happy.