It’s a Match! How to Find the Ideal Roommate for Your Apartment

Whether you’re moving into your first apartment or searching for someone to split the rent, finding a roommate doesn't have to be a challenge. There are several resources available to help you find a compatible roommate quickly and safely: 

Off-campus housing services for college students: With the need for student apartments on the rise, most major universities offer off-campus housing services. When you’re ready to graduate from dorm living, check to see if your school offers a roommate matching program.

Facebook and Reddit communities: Social media isn’t just for sharing family photos with former classmates. Now, many online networks, including Facebook and Reddit, have communities and forums dedicated to city living and finding roommates in particular areas. 

Craigslist: When in doubt, check the original roommate finder. However, you should always proceed with caution as this online classified could potentially harbor scammers. Never give out your personal information or transfer money until you’ve officially signed your lease together. 

Roommate search websites: Websites such as Roomiematch.com and Roommates.com make the search simple. Although you have to pay a small membership fee, scammers are filtered out, and you’re likely to find a real person dedicated to finding a roommate. 

Ask your friends: Although you may not want to live with your friends, they might know someone who’s trustworthy and who’s also looking for a roommate. 

If you’ve already found a pool of candidates, use these tips to narrow it down to the perfect roommate.

• Know what you’re looking for in a roommate. Before moving forward, it’s important to know what you’re looking for in a roommate. Identify the traits you’re looking for and what things are deal-breakers for you.


• Set up casual “interviews” with potential roommates. Get down to business over a double scoop at a local ice cream shop. This meeting shouldn’t be stuffy, but make sure to stay focused. 


• Set up an email account specifically for the roommate search to keep your personal information secure. As a rule of caution, never give out your bank account information or social security number until you’re signing an official rental application with a leasing agent or landlord. 


• Run a background check and credit inquiry. Much like using a roommate matching website, you’ll have to pay to run a legit background check, but it’s worth it to avoid living with someone with a shady past. Not only will you want to check their criminal record, but also their financial history. Even if it’s a soft credit check, this will give you peace of mind and illustrate your future roomie’s fiscal habits.


• Be upfront about expectations in the apartment. If you want a successful setup, have a conversation upfront to make sure your lifestyles, habits, and expectations align before signing a lease together. A few things to consider:
  
  • Are pets permitted?
  • Will guests be allowed to stay overnight?
  • When are quiet hours? 
  • How will chores in the common areas be divided?


• Will you purchase groceries together or separately?


• How will you split the utilities, and how much are you willing to spend on them?

Other Blogs You’ll Want to Check-Out:

• Have you found the ideal roommate, but you’re still on the hunt for a place? Look for these 10 things during your apartment search.
• You’ve decided to add a four-legged roommate to the lease. Here are 10 questions to ask yourself before adopting a pet.
• Make the most of the space in your new apartment with these stylish decorating tips.