Renting an apartment with another person can help you save money on living expenses. While some people don’t have the luxury of rooming with a friend or family member, sharing a home with a stranger doesn’t have to be awkward. Consider the following tips for a smoother transition into a living situation with someone you don’t know.

How to Live With a Stranger

1. Meet in Person

Even if you plan to live with someone you don’t know, you should still meet with them a few times. Having face-to-face interactions with a potential roommate will give you an idea of the kind of person they are and if you’ll get along with them. It’s challenging to gauge compatibility over the phone or through email, so try not to rely solely on those forms of communication.

2. Set Clear Boundaries

Some people only want to share financial responsibilities, while others prefer to develop a friendship with their roommate. Before making any final decisions on your living situation, establish clear boundaries about what you want and expect from your roommate. By having a clear set of priorities, you can move into the home with a clear understanding of each other’s expectations, which will minimize confusion and friction.

3. Establish House Rules

Before you agree to share a home with a potential roommate, you should compile a list of rules. For instance, you can split up the cleaning duties or decide how often visitors are permitted.

Establishing rules right away gives you both a chance to decide if you’re compatible and sets clear expectations for how the household will operate. During this process, it’s necessary to be willing to compromise so that everyone is comfortable living in the apartment.

If you and your roommate are looking for a new apartment, consider Maendele Properties LLC in Hastings, NE. This rental company has a variety of affordable listings for everyone, including college students and single families. Whether you need a one- or two-bedroom apartment, their friendly staff will help you find the best residence to accommodate your needs. For more information about their listings, call (402) 984-2020 or visit them online.