roomiez
Living with people can be tough, especially if you’re used to having your own space. However, it can also be a great learning experience. It takes much patience and understanding to live with someone, so here are a few tips to help you get settled.
Get to know your roomate(s)
Moving in with a stranger can be a pretty scary thing. Take some time out to get to know who you may be living with. Meet them BEFORE you decide to move in. You can go to lunch, the apartment/house where you’ll be staying, or simply just meet them somewhere public and safe. Roommates don’t have to be the best of friends, but surely you want to get along with someone you’re living with. Make conversation, be assertive and friendly.
Keep your space clean
Make sure you have a designated space for all of your personal items. Walmart, Target, and many other stores sell storage compartments that are affordable and cute! When you cook, clean/wash dishes as you are cooking so you won’t have to do them later. After you use a dish, clean it right away. Take a day out every week specifically for deep cleaning (typically Sunday). You can split chores with your roommate(s).
Hold each other accountable! Try not to overlook anything, even if you didn’t create the mess. If your roommate makes a habit of leaving messes, explain your frustration to them honestly and frankly.
Be mindful and courteous
Be mindful of the noise you make! If you like to record jams at home, listen to music loudly, or watch tv; be mindful of your roomie. You can go all night long if you want, but make sure you keep the volume at a respectful level after a certain time, unless you and your roomie have an understanding.
Your roommate isn’t the only one who may complain about noise, your neighbors may as well. If the walls are particularly thin, be careful about having loud guests over late at night or throwing those turnt up kickbacks too often. You wouldn’t want to get you and your roomie kicked out! Also, ask your roommate if they mind, anytime you might be having a guest(s) over.
Food! Buy your own food! Designate an area in the kitchen for your personal snacks/items and a space for your roomies. Same with refrigerated foods. If it helps to label your stuff, do so! If your roommate says you can have something of theirs, obviously feel free but ALWAYS ask first. If you eat/drink something accidentally, replace it.
GOT ROOMMATES?
If you are looking for a roommate or a place to sublet, try going on craigslist, roomie, or even Twitter/Instagram. Make a post! Beware of scams, see more about this and moving in here.