Finding a good roommate can seem like a serious challenge. Then again, how can you know if someone is going to get along with you after meeting them only once? Nevertheless, you can do things to boost your chances of choosing a roommate with whom you want to share a Bannock County rental house. Even though there are important traits that you can search for in any potential roommate, the important thing is whether you will get along well. To locate that person, start utilizing one or two of the mentioned strategies below.
Advertise Selectively
Where and how much you advertise should signify the character of the roommate that you prefer. It is definitely true that individuals who share things in common tend to get along better. This involves sharing a particular life stage or situation. Let’s say, if you are a college student or a young professional, you may notice that talking with someone going to school or starting a career is a perfect fit. On another note, a mid-career professional or retiree may seem to have a very effective relationship with the person at the same life stage. Focus your advertising on venues that will reach the people you’d like to have as roommates.
Ask Good Questions
Before you accept an individual application, screen anyone who responds to your ad in that first phone call. This will save you a lot of time and effort in due course. Describe your rental situation and your ideal tenant, and introduce yourself. Then ask questions. It’s an excellent idea to have a list of questions prepared just in case you fail to remember something. It is advisable to ask 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. Maybe the final question may sound a little personal, but you will need to find out whether or not a significant other might be spending the night at your place. After they’ve responded to your questions, ensure that you give them the freedom to ask questions of their own.
Check All References
After you completed the screening phone call, it is necessary to collect information about your potential roommate’s past rental experience – including references. Employers, former landlords, and friends can all provide you a fair assessment of who the applicant is and how they relate to others. Keep in mind to contact each reference and ask good questions about the applicant. It’s also critical to have a background check completed for all prospective roommates. You don’t want to be disappointed by your roommate’s criminal record once they have moved in.
Don’t Rent to Friends and Family
It may appear like a great idea to offer your place to a friend or family member, but living with someone you already knowisn’t necessarily a smart option. Although other people can make it work, there are a couple of possible issues with signing a friend or family member on as a roommate. You may notice things about the person you don’t like, which may lead to resentment and even affect your relationship. It’s also more challenging to enforce a lease agreement to somebody who is important to you, mainly if subtle reminders to wash their dishes or clean up their messes aren’t working. In addition, if a friend or a family member falls behind on their rent, you’ll be in a very tough spot. Regardless of whether you ask them to pay or you ask them to leave, there is a strong chance that your relationship will never return to normal – even if they seem to be understanding at this point.
While it may take some effort, it is worth it when you find a great roommate. After all, you’ll probably spend a lot of time sharing the same space, so it’s important to pick someone that will make doing so as pleasant as possible.
Whether you are a tenant or owner, Real Property Management Pocatello takes the stress out of the roommate hunt. Our Bannock County property managers incorporate a rigorous screening process to ensure quality tenants. For more information, contact us online or call us at 208-234-1000.
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.
