Finding a good roommate may sound like a significant challenge. In the end, how can you know if you’re going to get along well with anyone after meeting them only once? Though, you can do some stuff to improve the odds of having a roommate that you would like to share a North Hollywood rental house with. Although there are important traits that you can discover in any potential roommate, the most significant element is whether you will get along well. To identify that person, try utilizing one or all of the following procedures.
Advertise Selectively
Where and how much you advertise should reveal the character of a roommate that you prefer. It is generally accurate that persons who share things in common tend to get along better. This includes sharing a particular life stage or situation. For example, if you are a college student or a young professional, you might think that chatting with someone else going to school or starting a career is a good fit. On the other hand, a mid-career professional or retiree may get along much better with someone in a similar life stage. Direct your advertising on venues that will reach the people you’d like to have as roommates.
Ask Good Questions
Before you accept a certain application, screen anyone who responds to your ad in that initial phone call. This will save you a lot of time and effort in the long run. Describe your rental situation and your ideal tenant, and introduce yourself. Then ask questions. It’s necessary to have a list of questions prepared, in case you feel nervous. Don’t forget 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. This final question may sound a bit personal, but it is essential to know whether or not a significant other might be spending the night at your place. After they answer your concerns, please give them an opportunity to ask their questions.
Check All References
After you’ve finished the screening phone call, it’s best to accumulate information about your potential roommate’s past rental experience – including references. Employers, former landlords, and friends can give us an insight into who the applicant is and how they relate to others. Remember to contact every reference and ask good questions about the applicant. It is also critical to include a background check completed for all prospective roommates. You don’t want to be shocked by your roommate’s criminal record once they’ve moved in to your house.
Don’t Rent to Friends and Family
It may seem like a good idea to offer your home to a friend or family member, but living with someone you already know always comes with difficulties. Although some people can make it work, there are many 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 could trigger resentment and even break your relationship. It’s also a lot more complicated to enforce a lease agreement with someone who is important for you, particularly if subtle reminders to wash their dishes or clean up their messes do not work. Moreover, if a friend or a family member falls behind on their rent, you’ll be in a very tough situation. Whether you ask them to pay or you ask them to leave, the possibilities are high that this can affect your relationship with them – even though they appear to be understanding right now.
Although it could take some time, it is worth it when you acquire a good roommate. In the end, you’ll possibly spend a lot of time staying in the same place, so it’s imperative to select someone that will make doing so as pleasant as possible.
Whether you are a tenant or owner, Real Property Management Vision takes the stress out of the roommate hunt. Our North Hollywood property managers incorporate a rigorous screening process to ensure quality tenants. For more information, contact us online or call us at 818-233-8789.
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.
