Whether you're moving to a new city, looking to live off campus, or saving for your first home, share accommodation just makes sense. Without rental history, you'll struggle to rent a place of your own, but lucky for you, there are already thousands of share houses out there already, with a steady turnover of available rooms. Living with strangers may sound intimidating, but if you're comfortable with the roommates, the price, and the state of the house, you'll find yourself feeling at home in no time.
The House Lifestyle
Understand what you're getting in to. You wouldn't rent a house without examining every room, and in the same way, it's important you get to know the roommates. Are they students, couples, or full-time workers? Are they young, or are they middle-aged? What do they do on weekends? These questions are vital; you'll be living along side these people over the next year or so. If they're students, chances are they'll be at university or studying in their rooms, but they may have parties on the weekends. Or perhaps they're middle-aged and working full-time. If you want to have friends over, will it be a problem? It never hurts to ask.
Rent and Bills
What does it cost to live there? Some share houses factor bills into the rent each week, but some may split them when they come along. Are different amounts paid for each room? Once again, it's not rude to ask. You've got to be sure you can afford it.
Shared Perks
Are the pots-and-pans, crockery, and cutlery shared by the house, or will you have to supply your own? Is there a washing machine, or will you have to visit the local Laundromat to do your washing? In most cases, these things will be provided by the house already, but it doesn't hurt to bring your own anyway. If you've got something you can provide – a spare fridge or a microwave – be sure to mention it. You'll be welcomed if you can bring more to the house.
Rosters and House Rules
Ask whether they have a cleaning roster in place, or whether there are any house rules you should know about. Living with housemates can be tricky, and you don't want to be walking on eggshells. Make sure you're comfortable with what they have in place.
Don't worry about sounding pedantic; it's best to learn that this isn't the house for you now, rather than a month after moving in. Some final points to go over:
- Check that there's room for parking, or public transport nearby.
- Thoroughly inspect the room you'll be staying in to avoid any nasty surprises.
- Get your name on the lease. Rental history will help you in the future.
Sharing a house is a rewarding and financially sound option. Choose the right environment for yourself, and you'll make the most out of your time spent there.
Sebastian Peart - Sebastian Peart is studying Professional and Creative Writing at Deakin University, Melbourne, Australia.
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