20 rules to follow when looking for a roommate.

When looking for roommates, it's important to take the process seriously to ensure a harmonious living situation. Here is a list of things to do when searching for roommates:

1. Determine your preferences: Consider your living habits, lifestyle, and any specific requirements you have for potential roommates, such as age, gender, and lifestyle compatibility.
2. Set a budget: Determine the total rent you're willing to pay and what you expect each roommate to contribute. Be clear about how utilities and other expenses will be split.
3. Create a clear listing: If you're the one advertising for roommates, provide a detailed description of the living space, location, rent, and any house rules or expectations.
4. Use reputable roommate-finding platforms: Utilize online resources like Roomster, or roommate-specific apps to search for potential roommates.
5. Conduct interviews: Screen potential roommates through phone or in-person interviews to get to know them better and gauge their compatibility.
6. Ask for references: Request references from previous landlords or roommates to gain insights into a potential roommate's history and reliability.
7. Background check: Consider running a background check to ensure that potential roommates have a clean criminal record.
8. Check financial stability: Ask for proof of income or employment to ensure that your potential roommate can cover their share of the rent and other expenses.
9. Discuss living expectations: Have an open and honest conversation about lifestyle, habits, cleanliness, and shared responsibilities to make sure you're on the same page.
10. Share your expectations: Clearly communicate your expectations and any specific house rules you have in mind, such as quiet hours, cleaning schedules, and guest policies.
11. Discuss pets and allergies: If applicable, discuss any pet-related issues or allergies with potential roommates to avoid conflicts.
12. Legal agreements: Create a roommate agreement that outlines rent payments, responsibilities, move-in/move-out terms, and other important details. Make sure all roommates sign this agreement.
13. Consider a trial period: Start with a shorter lease or agreement initially to assess compatibility and living arrangements before committing to a long-term living situation.
14. Visit their current living space: If possible, visit their current residence to gauge their cleanliness and lifestyle.
15. Trust your instincts: If something doesn't feel right about a potential roommate, trust your instincts and continue your search.
16. Seek common interests: Finding roommates who share common interests or hobbies can lead to a more enjoyable living situation.
17. Consider compatibility: Look for roommates who have a similar schedule or lifestyle to minimize conflicts and disruptions.
18. Plan a meeting with potential housemates: Get everyone together for a meeting to discuss expectations, concerns, and any questions. This can help establish a sense of community and openness.
19. Set up a financial plan: Discuss how bills will be paid, whether you'll open a joint bank account or use a money-sharing app to simplify expenses.
20. Be patient: Finding the right roommate may take time, so don't rush the process. It's better to wait for the right fit than to hastily choose someone who may not be a good match.

Remember that finding the right roommate is essential for a peaceful and enjoyable living environment, so take your time and be thorough in your search and selection process.