How to Find The Best Roommates (and Avoid Toxic Roommates)

It’s time for you to make a move, and before you pack up and go, you may be wondering how to find good roommates. The truth is, finding the perfect roommate is hard at any age and in any city. However, if you are prepared, the hunt can go a little bit smoother. There are many perks to having a roommate, such as splitting bills and always having someone around to watch Netflix premieres or try out new restaurants with. However, it’s not as fun when you and your roommate don’t get along. When you have a toxic roommate, you won’t be comfortable in your own home. These days, more than ever, that simply cannot happen! Luckily, there are easy steps to take to make sure the person you choose to live with is the Chandler to your Joey. 

Follow these simple how-to-get-a-roommate guidelines, and you will be sure to have a roommate you love! 

How to Find a Good Roommate: Where to Start?

You might start your search for a roommate by posting in a Facebook group, putting up a flyer in a local coffee shop, or asking the building managers for some solid leads. You can also post on your social media to help spread the word. However, this is definitely not the first step when it comes to finding a good roommate. 

Before Posting an Ad, Be Sure to Do THIS 

The first step on how to get roommates that will fit your lifestyle is figuring out what kind of person you want to live with. This way, you can post an ad with these qualities and, therefore, have the right people inquire for more information. 

When you are thinking of your perfect roommate, consider asking yourself the following questions:

• Does neatness matter to me?
• Do I care if we are close in age? If not, would I prefer older or younger?
• What household expenses may I need help with besides basic utilities? (Split gym membership, beach pass, parking sticker, cleaning supplies, etc).
• Do I want someone quiet or someone who will be my best friend and confidant?
• Does it matter if they are single or in a relationship?
• Would I prefer they were the same gender as me?
• Does it affect me what hours they work or what they do for work?
• Would I rather have an early bird or a night owl?
• What are my deal breakers for a roommate?

Once you have the answer to these questions and anything else you deem necessary, it’s time to post your ad or start asking around. Hopefully, people start coming to you quickly and you will be ready for step two: the roommate interview. 

How to Conduct a Roommate Interview 

A roommate interview should be taken just as seriously as a job interview. It’s one of the most important steps to finding a good roommate and avoiding a toxic one! You should arrive on time, dress nicely, and have questions prepared that will help you get to know the person you may offer housing to.

Pro-tip: For your own safety, you should also meet in a public place like a coffee shop, or park. You could also have them meet you in the lobby of your building so, if it goes well, you can show them around!

What to Look For in a Good Roommate: First Impressions Do Matter!

Once you start meeting people, here are some things to look out for during the interview: 

• Did the person arrive on time?
• Do they seem clean and presentable?
• Are they able to make eye contact and have a steady conversation?
• Do they seem to have a positive or negative mindset? 

You can really get to know a person just by their initial attitude and mindset.

Pro-tip: If you have a strong gut instinct about someone right off the bat – whether it is good or bad – trust it. Your subconscious might be picking up on subtle cues that your conscious mind might not recognize right away! 

What to Ask in a Roommate Interview

With all of that aside, there are very important questions to ask this person when looking for how to find good roommates. Write these down and keep them with you, so you don’t forget!

• What kind of job do you have? / Is your income steady?
• How was your last living situation? Are you still friends with that roommate? 
• Do you work remotely or go into an office? 
• What are your work hours?
• Do you get up early or are you more of a night owl?
• What are your interests?
• Do you smoke or drink? 
• Are you okay with splitting all utilities and any extra expenses that may come with the apartment?
• What is your usual bedtime?
• What do you like to do for fun?
• Do you clean up after yourself? 
• Do you have any pets?
• Are you single or in a relationship? 
• Do you like to cook?
• What kind of roommate are you looking for?
• What kind of apartment are you looking for? 

As you ask these questions and receive answers, be sure to pay attention to how the person communicates and comes off towards you.

Pro-tip: Be prepared for your potential new roomie to ask you these same types of questions as well! Remember, they are also probably looking for the perfect roommate, so they will want to know all about you, too.

How To Avoid a Toxic Roommate

You can tell if someone will be a toxic roommate the first time you meet them. As mentioned before, it’s all about trusting your gut and intuitive instincts. Pay attention to how they compose themselves. If they seem disorganized or unkept, they will likely be like that at home too. Furthermore, if they are rolling their eyes and seem to be agonized by your questions, they might not be the roommate for you. And if they seem to be in a rush or not paying attention, it’s time for the next interview. 

Trust yourself with being able to pick up on a toxic vibe and move on if you get even a small inkling of negativity. After all, you deserve to find the best roommate – so don’t settle. 

3 Final Tips on How to Get Good Roommates 

Here are 3 final steps to take if you are wondering how to find good roommates. Let’s start with communication. 

1. Be Communicative

Always be open and honest with the people you are interviewing about what you want, the timeframe for your decision, and any pricing/policies they need to know about. It’s important to keep everything in writing and share that with whomever you are interviewing. 

2. Stick to Your Boundaries

When you answer the questions from the first section and establish exactly what you are looking for, don’t stray from it! Of course, you may need the extra money as soon as possible, but finding the right person has extreme value too. 

3. Ask for References

Again, this is just like a job interview! If you think you found the right person, ask to speak to their best friend or sibling. They know them best and will be able to tell you what they are like to live with. 

Congratulations! You are now fully prepared to find the best roommate. 

Need to Find the Perfect Apartment Too? Richman Signature Can Help!

Whether you are looking to fill your new two-bedroom apartment or even three, you are capable of finding exceptional people to live with. 

When you’re ready to move in, contact the Richman Signature and let us help you find the perfect apartment in the best cities across the nation!