The 6 Best Ways to Find a Roommate

Renting is a cost-effective alternative to owning a home. To make it even more affordable, people may decide to get a roommate. However, you have to be very cautious when choosing a roommate because who you choose can impact your renting experience.  If you are looking, there are dozens of ways to find a potential roommate.

1) Ask Around

Before jumping on the website bandwagon, explore good old fashion word of mouth. Reach out to your family, friends, and acquaintances to not only catch up but also to let them know that you’re looking for a roommate. Share with them what you’re looking for in a roommate and encourage them to refer you to anyone who they may know who fits the criteria.

2) Use Your Local Network

Some people love to go to libraries while others enjoy spending time at the gym. Regardless of how we cultivate relationships, you can use your circle of influence in your roommate search.  Asking a classmate or workout buddy to refer you to a roommate can work in your favor.

3) Social Media

Social media has become part of our lifestyle as people seek ways to stay connected more than ever. Social media can also be helpful in finding a new roommate.  All you need to do is update your social media profile status to indicate that you are looking for a roommate. Eventually, interested people will begin to reach out to you for more information. You can ask others in your social media network to share your post with their friends and also to help get the word out.

The good thing about this approach is you get a chance to learn a little about their values and interests by looking at their social media profiles, which makes this one of the best ways to find a roommate.

4) College Alumni Networks

Graduation doesn’t end most relationships, and those relationships may come in handy when you’re ready to find a roommate. Leverage your relationships with those in your sorority, fraternity, or special interest groups from college to find a roommate that will be a good fit for you.

5) Sublet

If you prefer a more temporary living arrangement with someone, consider subletting as an option. The good thing is there are online platforms that make it possible to connect with people who are only looking for a short-term rental opportunity.  Subletting can also prove to be an effective way to vet potential roommates before living with them long-term.

6) Real Estate Websites

There are Three Types of Real Estate Websites:

1) Websites that allow you to post that you are looking for a roommate along with your desired roommate criteria This is one of the most practical ways to find a roommate online.
2) Websites dedicated to connecting potential roommates. You can think of them as a matchmaking website for roommates.  This type of website allows the user to use filters to help you find people who may be a good fit.
3) Traditional real estate websites that are designed for rent, own, or sell the property. Some traditional sites now include additional features that help connect people who are looking for short- or long-term roommate arrangements.

Picking Your Perfect Roommate

Finding a roommate is a big deal, and the process you follow to find one should not be taken lightly since you will be spending a lot of time together and sharing your private space. Get multiple references for a prospective roommate and ask the right questions when interviewing them. Of course, you should ask about their lifestyle as well as their likes and dislikes. Get some insight into their past and their recent living situation. The most pertinent question should be why they need a new place.

Get a good idea of their ability to contribute financially upfront. Ask them about the nature of their job and whether it’s a permanent job or contract work. You need to make sure that your future roommate can afford to pay their share of the rent and utilities.  It may be helpful to give them an idea of how much living in your apartment would cost them.

Lastly, get everything in writing before allowing someone to move into your apartment. You might feel like you should be able to trust someone after a couple of meetups, but signing a lease can change the game if you haven’t already agreed on key elements of the living arrangements.

Final Words

If you are looking for a roommate, explore both online and in-person options. Consider references from family and friends. Additionally, using social media or real estate websites can help you find a roommate.