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How to Find the Right RoommateHaving a roommate can be either advantageous or can be your worst nightmare; depending on how well you get along with your roommate. Finding the right roommate may seem as thought it is difficult; however, by following a few guidelines you can make the process of looking for the right roommate much easier. First, set your sights on finding a roommate who approaches housekeeping in a similar manner as you. When one roommate is tidy and the other is less than tidy, this can quickly spell trouble. The best relationships usually work well when both roommates approach housekeeping in a similar manner. One of the biggest problems among many roommates is the inability to discuss financial matters in an open and direct manner. The last thing you want is to have a roommate that you must constantly hound about their portion of the bills. Remember that you will be splitting a variety of expenses including rent, electricity, cable, telephone, Internet and possibly groceries and furniture. This means that in order for the relationship to work well you must feel comfortable discussing those expenses with them. Also, it is a good idea to make sure that you locate a roommate who has similar feelings regarding entertaining. If you are a naturally social person who tends to have a lot of friends over frequently, things can become difficult if your roommate is a recluse. Before you agree to share an apartment make sure you discuss with the prospective candidate their feelings regarding entertaining and particularly how late is too late to have friends over. One of the biggest issues many people fail to take into consideration when choosing a roommate is bed time. Some people are night owls who joyfully stay up all night and then want to sleep in the next day. Many others are the complete opposite. To avoid conflict, it is best to find a roommate who has the same preferences as you regarding how early or how late you go to bed. Of course, it is also important to ask about pets. If you live in a no pet complex, this may not be an issue but it should still be covered. If you live in a complex that allows pets and you have a pet, always make sure you bring this up and let them know about your pet. Ask if they have any allergies and whether they are a pet lover. If you do not happen to have pets and prefer it that way, make sure you ask before you agree to living with a roommate. Finally, avoid basing your decision on how well you like the person. You may be best friends with someone but find that living with them would drive you crazy. Instead, look for a roommate with whom you are compatible. |
