What should someone consider first before getting an apartment through a joint lease with a friend?

Answer 1

The two of you should sit down and examine the 'worst case' situations for example:

1) What happens if one of you can not pay the rent?

2) What happens if one of you wants to leave, for any reason?

3) Who is responsible for dealing with the landlord (don't both try to do it, that often becomes unproductive and confusing.

4) Who is responsible for what , and what utilities or assets (dishes, furniture, etc..) will be shared or exclusive (cleaning, garbage bills, etc..) don't blow this off with 'will figure it out later... trust me, you never will)

5) Parking? Who gets it. How is it paid for?

6) Do you both agree with all parts of the lease?

Any other stumbling block should be disussed and resolved. Then put it in writing since when roomates feued (and ALL roommates have pissing matches sooner or later) things get forgotten or misunderstood quickly.

AFTER you get all that done, then consider the lease. This way you will get a good apartment AND retain a good friend.

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Answer 2

Well, most of the time when you enter into a joint lease, there is joint and several liability. That means if something happens to your friend and he can't or won't pay his share of the rent, then you will be held liable legally for the entire rent by yourself. Also consider what would happen if either of you got into a serious relationship. If one of your girlfriends wanted to move in, which one of the roommates would leave and which one would have to leave?

Answer 3

how about---do u like this person enough that the two of u can get along for 12 months...you will both be legally responsible for the rent even if one of u moves out

Answer 4

Ask yourself. "can I afford the rent payments on my own?" If your answer is no then you may want think about it long and hard. Friendships can go out the door because of money...and it is not pretty.