If you’re a college student, there are several reasons you may decide to live with roommates, from financial motivations to personal safety. However, living with other people for the first time can present new challenges that you may not know how to navigate. To pave the way for harmonious living and ease this transition as you look at apartments for rent, here are some helpful do’s and don’ts.

Do:

Inspect the unit carefully.

When it’s time to move out, your landlord will inspect your unit to ensure that everything is in the same condition as it was when you and your roommates moved in. For this reason, it’s essential to carefully inspect potential apartments for rent before you officially sign a lease.

If you notice any damage to the walls, windows, appliances, or otherwise, mention this to your landlord upfront so you won’t be charged later on. Inspecting the unit will also ensure that you’re comfortable with the space and minimize any unexpected surprises down the line.

Set ground rules before signing a lease.

Sharing living space for the first time may require some adjusting. To help ensure you and your roommates live happily together, establish some ground rules before signing the lease. Be transparent about your living preferences and communicate anything you consider off-limits, such as having guests stay over multiple nights in a row.

Don’t:

Agree to be the single account holder.

When you share an apartment, it’s crucial to make sure that everyone signs the lease and has an equal investment in the space. This will protect you if something unexpected happens, such as one of your roommates breaking their lease and moving out without notice. If each party is equally responsible financially, you won’t be on the hook and expected to pay in their absence.

Leave the cleaning & chores to one person.

In addition to sharing financial responsibility, it’s also important that each roommate contributes to the upkeep of the apartment as well. You don’t want the onus of household chores to fall on one person, as that isn’t fair and can lead to resentment.

To avoid this, openly discuss how chores, such as dishes, will be handled before moving in. You may even want to track weekly cleaning so that everyone’s held equally accountable.

If you’re ready to start looking at apartments for rent with your friends, look no further than ​Munson Realty, Inc. in La Crosse, WI. This reputable, locally owned property management company has been helping residents find their dream homes for over 25 years. Whether you’re looking for a new rental property or off-campus housing near your university, they’ll work closely with you to find the right space. Plus, with 24/7 emergency maintenance service, they’re always available for any rental issues you may encounter. To view their available properties, give them a call today at (608) 785-7187 or visit them online to check out the current units.