Picking the right roommate is a big decision as you'll be living together 24/7 for months, maybe years! That's why there's a lot to consider for what you're looking for in a roommate and how to pick one. We've listed our top 10 points to help you navigate the right decision.
1. Decide the relationship you want
There are many different things that you may want from a roommate; for some, it could be an exciting new friendship while for others it could simply be someone nice and easygoing to live and share the bills with! Regardless, it is extremely important to define the relationship you want to have with your potential roommate and then make sure that you both agree on it so you can be clear on your expectations and make sure that they match.
2. Make sure that your schedules match!
While everyone’s schedule differs, it mustn't get in the way of your cohabitation! One of the main things to consider when picking a roommate is whether their schedule suits yours. For example, if one is working early mornings and the other late at night, it might be a problem. So, make sure that you communicate on that matter to find the perfect balance and the perfect roommate!
3. Ask about cleanliness
For some, keeping a clean and neat environment is a priority, for others seeing the dishes piling up is not a worry! Everyone is different and everyone’s cleaning habits diverge too. To maintain an enjoyable and profitable environment, it is essential to discuss your cleanliness and see if it works out for both of you.
4. Discuss your need for privacy
Some people are more private and introverted than others and that is totally okay! However, it is a point to discuss with your potential roommate to check if your energies match and if someone needs more privacy than the other and might spend more time in their room, making sure that it does not make the other feel left out. Again, communication is key!
5. Make sure that your personalities match
Personality is an extremely important factor to consider when picking a roommate! Even if you don’t want the person to become your ultimate best friend, making sure that your personalities are on the same level is essential. As we previously said, if one is an introvert and the other more of an extrovert it could create unnecessary conflict. To make sure that your cohabitation is unproblematic, get to know each other a little bit before moving in together. You could try to meet up in an informal setting and chat about your values, inspirations, and goals…
6. Learn about their hobbies
Similarly, you might want to learn about your potential roommate’s hobbies. Especially as hobbies can affect the way you both use common spaces, if one has an artistic spirit and might want to start crafting and painting in your living room, you could either take part in it or find it awful and hate it! Communicate about your hobbies, see if you can live with them, and discuss when and which hobbies are convenient for both of you to enjoy worry-free cohabitation!
7. Ask about potential guests
One thing that can turn out to be problematic is the number and types of guests that your roommate might want to bring around… So, make sure that you are both very clear and transparent on that matter to enjoy living with each other and welcoming guests without having to worry. That means setting up boundaries! For example, if one is in a relationship but you value your peace, calm and privacy you might want to have a shared calendar so you both can be aware of future guests. There is so much to discuss when picking your future roommate and the topic of guests is definitely an essential one!
8. Ask about their sense of responsibility
When looking for a roommate, an essential thing to check is their sense of responsibility. That means mentioning finances and bills, implying that living together is not only all about fun but also about being serious and responsible in certain given situations. Ask about their previous experiences, if they have ever been late to paying bills and understand if you are dealing with a more organised or messy person. To be in the position to share a home, your potential roommate should prove to you that they possess a strong sense of responsibility.
9. Learn about their conflict resolution approach
Similarly, you might want to know your potential roommate’s approach to resolving a conflict. It is particularly important to ask about previous experiences here once again as that will help you give an idea of their level of maturity regarding this matter. If the person claims that they often find themselves in a position where they prefer avoiding conflict and not discussing every potential problem, that might not work for you and vice versa... So be clear on your conflict resolution approaches and make sure that they are similar and work for both of you!
10. Ask about references!
To have a better idea of the person you are dealing with, it might be a good idea to ask to speak with previous roommates or landlords if they provide you with their details. You may also want to check their social media to discover a bit more about their lifestyle. Another way to confirm some of the information they have told you about them or to get to know more about them could be an invitation to hang out with your mutual friends in an informal setting!
A final word for our readers!
Now that we've listed our 10 essential things on how to pick a roommate and what to look for in a roommate, we think it's also important to protect the things you own; Arma Karma is a monthly insurance subscription that can help you live worry-free. If you fear bad surprises or damaging your items, we can help protect your stuff from as little as £3.99 a month. Insure a wide range of items including eyewear, jewellery, and gadgets. If you want to avoid the additional stress of living with a roommate and getting your items damaged, get started!
