I own a condo, and I'm currently seeking a roommate. I'm not sure what ground rules I should establish, as I have never had a roommate before.. Can you help me??
2006-11-12 14:28:02 · 7 answers · asked by esteemkam 2 in Business & Finance ➔ Renting & Real Estate
Having been a property manager for the last 20 years, perhaps I could share a few things I'd look for in a room mate.
Firstly, processing an application and background check (including the credit report) should be required. ALWAYS CHECK REFERENCES. (Doesn't hurt to do a little internet/google searches on people as well).
Second, always check for employment. You want to see at least 6 months of job stability and income that can afford the rent payments. You can see how many bills they probably have on their credit report.
Thirdly, establish a written contract and house rules. You can obtain rental contracts in many places like Office Depot. You can make up house rules or go to a nearby apartment complex and ask for a copy of the rules that you can modify to your condo. Have this signed and kept.
Fourth, spend a considerable amount of time meeting with this person to find out if their living style is compatible to yours. Will they be working or be at home during the hours you would sleep? Are there children that will be coming to visit and if so, when? Will you allow guests and if so, how many and when?
The best thing to do is put everything on the table up front and put EVERYTHING in WRITING. That is the most important thing. If you have any problems, document them in writing as well in case you need to ask him to leave. Always collect a deposit for cleaning and damages as well. Clearly outline responsibilities, duties, expenses, etc.
Good luck!
2006-11-12 14:44:19 · answer #1 · answered by Susan C 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I have rented out rooms for 40 years. ...From Calif to Maine.
The following rules will prevent the most common reasons that "room mate" relationships fail.
Here are the rules: 1. Don't share food. Invaribly someone comes home expecting That "doggie bag" to still be there and it isn't. It is a major source of disappointment which becomes anger when it happens again.
Roomates need their own phones to avoid getting into "I didn't make that call" or "when are you going to pay"?
Roommates need cable in their bedroom for TV , their computer and their phone gives everyone a chance to escape and have privacy.
2006-11-13 02:28:09 · answer #2 · answered by hello_ms_moore 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Personally I am very fussy so they would have to be clean and tidy. The day rent is due. Smoker/non smoker. Drinker or not. Pets. Visitors. Noise factor. How the chores and food bills are divided. Any quirks...yours or theirs....
2006-11-12 14:34:12 · answer #3 · answered by auntynoall 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
who pays what, who gets the utility deposit back, what names are on the lease, what furniture/ appliances/ electronics in any common area, how to pay for and share anything you decide to share, whether your schedules match well with theirs (if you have to get up early for work, you'll be upset with their parties til 3), and, above all, personalities and values - like keeping the place clean and being easy going with inevitable conflicts.
2006-11-12 14:39:08 · answer #4 · answered by Beka K 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
you need serious legal advice. this can get very messy with out legal papers agreements for you. EVERYthing needs to be written out or you could be shafted for some major bills.
2006-11-12 14:41:47 · answer #5 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
No Strippers! They turn out to be crack whores & their pimps or tricks or whatever you call them, come to your home when you are not there & steel your stuff!
2006-11-12 14:53:25 · answer #6 · answered by Crystal A 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
make them together one for each of you
2006-11-12 14:35:58 · answer #7 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋