finding a roommate in a new city

gouf78
Wed, 24 May 2017 22:14:10 +0000

D found her first rental through craigslist. Very good experience and still has good friends from that experience.

Later, D did Craigslist to get roommates for house/ room rental near NY. After a hard lesson (nice person but a druggie–easy lesson over all considering how things could have turned out) She learned to ask for rent (first/last) up front and solid job references. Have a contract with 30 day notice if it doesn’t work out. Stick to it. Formalize the agreement–you aren’t friends yet.
Different states have varying tenant/landlord laws that vary wildly. NY skews toward the tenant so be careful. Many sites suggest doing a background check on your tenant before signing.

Be proactive in interviewing people to live in your house/apartment–don’t be afraid to be a bit hard nosed on money or the conditions you set–who can come over (no inviting big parties, no friends staying over etc—those things can change when YOU like the parties or friends!), no drugs, keep it clean, any parts of house/apart off limits etc. Be upfront. This person is MOVING IN WITH YOU. Say NO if you are uncomfortable.
You can’t go to the RA and request a room change!

There is nothing WORSE than a horrible roommate and a great roommate may be a friend for life.