Going from being completely on your own to living with another adult is a major shift. However, the current economic context is forcing many people to get a roommate once again to make ends meets.
For some, it’s a necessary part of saving for a downpayment to purchase a property. Other times, it’s a thirty-something moving back in with their parents while they get back on their feet following a divorce. So, under such circumstances, what can you do to make the process easier?
Designate Certain Areas “Off-Limits”
Whether you’re an introvert or simply accustomed to having the house all to yourself, reserving certain areas for your own personal use is essential. Claim your sofa, reading nook or even a kitchen shelf as exclusive “me-space” to maintain at least some level of independence in this new co-living situation.
Set Rules for the Living Room
Nowadays, we all have our own smartphone or laptop on which we can watch what we want, when we want. Despite this, in a shared house, chances are only one room has a comfortable couch and giant screen. The key here is to alternate. Why not set a schedule?
Give Yourself the Right to Be Selfish
Habits acquired while living alone don’t disappear overnight. If you tend to leave the dirty dishes in the sink for later or eat breakfast around 2 p.m., tell the other person beforehand and discuss any accommodations. It’s all a matter of compromise, but it’s perfectly normal to put oneself first every now and then.
Discuss Finances Beforehand
Money is the serious side of sharing a residence. Discussing how you will split expenses from the outset is imperative. Who will pay for what between the rent or mortgage, bills, groceries, etc.? It’s important that everything is agreed upon and crystal-clear before anybody moves in to avoid conflict in the future (or at least tension at the end of each month!). Moreover, putting together a common budget for buying furniture or paying for repairs, for example, may save you a great deal of headaches.
Don’t Underestimate the Importance of a Clean Bathroom
Co-living means laying down ground rules regarding hygiene. The bathroom is an intimate, yet communal space. Plan a schedule to prevent early morning line-ups and establish simple rules (like replacing the toilet paper roll when it’s empty!) to avoid pointless arguments.
Communicate (Openly and Honestly)
The basis of any co-living arrangement is open communication. If something is bothering you, address the issue as soon as possible and don’t let things reach boiling point. And remember that it’s not what you say, it’s how you say it! Broaching topics calmly and with a sense of humour will usually help ease the tension.
Share the Housecleaning (Or at Least Try)
Allocating household chores is often a sensitive subject. To prevent one of the occupants from becoming swamped with housework, implement a fair division of tasks. And once you’ve both come to an agreement on who will handle which job, stick to it! You might even consider trying an app to assign chores to ensure everything is clear and transparent.
Be Tolerant Regarding Decor
Your and your roommate’s tastes in terms of decor will almost certainly differ. A houseplant here, a vintage poster there… learn to tolerate the minor details that might clash a bit with your style. Ideally, you’ll reach a compromise over the decor in the common rooms that you’re both happy with. In short, only your bedroom will exactly suit your tastes, but this is better than nothing!
Develop a Secret Code
Whether it’s in-laws or intrusive friends, devising an escape plan or a discreet code is essential for dealing with impromptu visits. There’s nothing worse than having to face Aunty Monica unexpectedly over the breakfast table before you’ve drunk your coffee.
Living with someone after having been on your own for a while can be quite an adjustment, but with a little communication and a lot of patience, you can make this a fun and enriching experience. And if you’ve had enough of sharing your house with a roommate, contact a real estate broker who can help you in your search for a property that fits your budget.