Finding a good roommate could turn out to be a big challenge. Be that as it may, how can you tell whether you will get along well with someone after meeting them only once? Moreover, you can do things to enhance your chances of finding a roommate you’re going to want to share a Cranston rental house with. Even though there are important traits that you can find in any potential roommate, the most important part of it all is whether you will get along well. If you want to search for that person, try using one or more of the following approaches.
Advertise Selectively
Where and how much you advertise must indicate the kind of roommate that you want. It is generally true that people who share things in common tend to get along better. This includes sharing a particular life stage or situation. Like for instance, unless you are a college student or a young professional, you may find that the ability to communicate with someone else going to school or starting a career is a good fit. Though, a mid-career professional or retiree may find that they are comfortable with someone in much the same life stage. Concentrate your advertising on venues that will reach the people you’d like to have as roommates.
Ask Good Questions
Before you accept a single application, screen anyone who responds to your ad in that first phone call. This will save you a lot of time and effort in the long run. Describe your rental situation and your ideal tenant, and introduce yourself. Then ask questions. It’s a good idea to have a list of questions prepared, in case you get nervous. You’ll want to ask about the caller’s source of income, major expenses, whether they smoke, if they own pets, what their work schedule is like, and if they are dating anyone. That last question may seem a bit personal, but you will want to know whether or not a significant other might be spending the night at your place. When you’ve asked your inquiries, don’t forget to give them the opportunity to ask questions of their own.
Check All References
In cases where you’ve made it past the screening phone call, it’s time for you to collect information about your potential roommate’s past rental experience – including references. Employers, former landlords, and friends can all give you a clear view of who the applicant is and how they relate to others. Be sure to contact each reference and ask excellent questions about the applicant. It is also essential to have a background check completed for all prospective roommates. You don’t want to be caught off-guard by your roommate’s criminal record after they’ve moved in.
Don’t Rent to Friends and Family
This might seem like a great idea to offer your home to a friend or family member, but living with someone you already knowisn’t always a great idea. While some people may make it work, there are many potential problems with signing a friend or family member on as a roommate. You may discover stuff about the person you don’t like, which could create resentment and even cause damage to your relationship. It’s additionally far more challenging to enforce a lease agreement with somebody you are concerned about, especially if subtle reminders to wash their dishes or clean up their messes aren’t working. What is more, if a friend or a family member falls behind on their rent, you’ll be in a very difficult situation. Whether you try to get them to pay or you ask them to leave, the chances are high that your relationship will never be the same – even if they seem to be understanding at the moment.
While it may take some effort, it is worth it when you find a great roommate. After all, you’ll probably spend a lot of time that share the same space, so it’s important to select somebody that will make doing so as pleasant as possible.
Whether you are a tenant or owner, Real Property Management Providence takes the stress out of the roommate hunt. Our Cranston property managers incorporate a rigorous screening process to ensure quality tenants. For more information, contact us online or call us at 401-272-3300.
We are pledged to the letter and spirit of U.S. policy for the achievement of equal housing opportunity throughout the Nation. See Equal Housing Opportunity Statement for more information.
