Finding An Apartment Roommate
Many college students choose off-campus apartments instead of dormitories or other
on-campus housing options. Apartments often cost more than on-campus housing options
and it is common for students who want to live in off-campus housing to get a roommate
with whom they can share expenses. If you are planning to move off-campus and you
need someone to share the expenses, it is a good idea to find an apartment roommate
before you sign a lease. If you can’t afford the apartment on your own, you
could find yourself stuck in a situation that could have been avoided by finding
a roommate in time.
To find an apartment roommate, talk to people in your circle of friends and acquaintances
to see if any of them are interested in giving up dormitory living. It is very likely
that someone you know would love to move to an apartment, provided it isn't going
to cost them more than living in the dorm. If not, ask for referrals of others who
might be interested. You can also post notices on bulletin boards around campus
and/or run a “roommate wanted” advertisement in your campus newspaper.
Once you have identified one or more potential roommates, spend enough time together
to figure out if you are likely to be compatible roommates. Ask important roommate
questions related to sleep schedules, noise preferences, tidiness habits, allergies
and pets to make sure that your habits don't conflict. If you agree that rooming
together is a good idea, start looking for an apartment that meets your needs in
terms of space, location and cost.