Is it a good idea to get a first apartment with a roommate?

Question

My best friend and I of 7 years will be getting our first apartment together in April. My parents think its a bad idea we live together, they rather have me struggle and pay a 500 rent bill or pay lower and live in a bad place. I understand that with rooming with a friend it can either make or break your friendship. I think that as long as we have good communication we will be alright. We agreed to do a 6 months lease to test the waters and when it comes time to renew we can either stay or go our seperate ways living wise. We found a great apt for 699 a month for 1134sq ft in the medical district in san antonio. Has everything we wanted. Close to school, job, has fitness, laundry and pool center. Friendly staff easy payment options for utilities and rent (all online), and occassional outings with the residents (its in a semi college district). We're both 21 years old and ready to move out of our parents house. We're excited because we found something we can afford and our parents arent

Answer 1

Moving in together with a friend has the advantage that you can split the rent. However, your parents are right that it can break up friendships. I actually have 2 friends that lived together and ended up breaking up because of living together. There are so many issues, you need to communicate about stuff like quiet hours and unless you are deaf your noise is bound to disturb each other if you don't have matching sleep schedules. Also you need to discuss who's responsible for paying which bills--you will also have phone, electric, maybe other bills as well besides your rent and you're gonna have to decide how to split those up. Also decide how to split up chores. Having your own place is a lot of work, you need to dust, scrub floors, clean the bathroom, vacuum on a weekly basis and make sure garbage is taken out and dishes are washed regularly. This may seem obvious, but some people don't realize that stuff needs doing.

Answer 2

NO, they say to Never live with someone you know, although it seems comforting to know that you know this person and trust them a lot of future issues can surely break you guys a part, plus what happens when someone gets pregnant, boyfriend wants to move in, and/or the other person does not want to move out!! Don't think about here and Now think about the future and future issues!! I would get my own apartment to be on the safe side. People can sure visit but you will always have your own peace of mind!!