Finding a good roommate can seem to be a major challenge. After all, how can you know whether you will get along well with somebody after meeting them just once? Still, you can do a lot to improve your chances of meeting a roommate with whom you would like to share a St. George rental house. Although there are important traits that you can see with any potential roommate, the most significant thing is whether you will get along well. To meet that person, consider using some of the following approaches.
Advertise Selectively
Where and how much you advertise should represent the personality of a roommate that you like. It is generally correct that individuals who share things in common tend to get along better. This incorporates sharing a particular life stage or situation. For instance, if you are a college student or a young professional, you may notice that communicating with another person going to school or starting a career is a good match. On the other hand, a mid-career professional or retiree may have a great moment with someone at a similar 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. Describe your rental situation and your ideal tenant, and introduce yourself. Then ask questions. It is helpful to have a list of questions prepared, in case you missed something. You’ll need to get specifics 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 appear a bit personal, but it is important to know whether or not a significant other might be spending the night at your place. When they’re done responding to your question, make sure to give them the opportunity to ask questions too.
Check All References
If you’ve accomplished the first screening phone call, it’s significant to assemble information about your potential roommate’s past rental experience – particularly references. Employers, former landlords, and friends will all provide you a clearer picture of who the applicant is and how they relate to others. Don’t forget to contact every reference and ask vital questions about the applicant. It’s also recommended to have a background check completed for all prospective roommates. You’d like not to be astonished by your roommate’s criminal record after they’ve moved in.
Don’t Rent to Friends and Family
It sounds like a wonderful idea to suggest your house to a friend or family member, but living with someone you already know isn’t always the best move. Although some individuals can make it work, there are several possible problems with signing a friend or family member on as a roommate. You may find something about the person you don’t like, which could create resentment and even damage your relationship. It’s also a lot more complicated to enforce a lease agreement with somebody you care about, particularly if subtle reminders to wash their dishes or clean up their messes don’t work. Additionally, if a friend or a family member falls behind on their rent, you’ll be in a difficult scenario. Whether you ask them to pay or you ask them to leave, the possibilities are strong that your relationship will never be the same – even if they appear to be understanding at this point.
While it may take some effort, it is worth it when you find an extraordinary roommate. After all, you’re obviously going to spend a lot of time sharing the same room, so it’s necessary to choose someone who will make it as pleasant as possible.
Whether you are a tenant or owner, Real Property Management Southern Utah takes the stress out of the roommate hunt. Our St. George property managers incorporate a rigorous screening process to ensure quality tenants. For more information, contact us online or call us at 435-673-4242.
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.
