How can I look for a roommate I can be compatible with?

Question

I am a mother of an 18yr old son who is never home. Boyfriend of 2 years just decided he wanted to be on his own. Considering we had 10 years difference in age. I am a 40 yr old working mom with a large home and know I can't afford this home on my salary. Does anyone know of any good websites for a roommate in my area? I am really nervous about just getting anyone whom I do not know. I live in Plainfield, IL.

Answer 1

Yikes! That's a scary thought - Having a stranger in your home when you're not there.

Do you have any close friends that would consider moving in? Besides a close friend or a relative, I wouldn't be comfortable with it at all.

If you own the home, could you re-fi and get the payments lowered?

If you rent, talk to the owner. Sometimes they will lower the rent in order to keep you.

Maybe it's time for your 18 year old son to start paying room and board. That is what my parents did when I turned 18.

Answer 2

Hi, you can actually go to www.roommates.com and sign up there. It's kind of like a dating site, but to find compatable roommates. I would conduct interviews with prospective roommates, just like a job interview. First you would screen potential candidates over the phone, then you can invite the people you like for a face to face interview. Make sure you outline the rules you would like your new tennant to follow and be sure to discuss them during the interview process. Remember you can ask for references and employment history. You can also go online to a website like www.ussearch.com and do a background check for a possible criminal history, for a minimal fee. Before you do that, I would ask the person if they would allow you to perform a background check. If you really want to cover your bases, you could have an attorney draw up a rental agreement so in case you need to evict someone, you have that covered. I think if you do a thorough interview, you should have no problem finding a suitable roommate. Good luck!