Rent is getting more costly, which makes it economically difficult for you to rent  by yourself, depending on where you live. Depending on what city you are in, it is the harsh truth of life after college that can also carry on into your 20's and 30's. Living in a particular area may also be decided by your career, where you do not want to spend hours commuting every day. Moving in with a roommate is one way to save money, cut some of your costs, and still live in your desired place. A popular and very cost-effective alternative for young adults, but before you get up and move in with someone new, there are a few things to consider. To decide whether your prospective roommate is right for you, read on to check what to ask.

Reach out to your network

Reach out to your network of friends before you try to meet someone you don't know. Send an email or post a message on Facebook to your friends or family members, telling your network that you are looking for a new roommate. Be very clear about what region you are looking for and when your new roommate is needed. Also, make it clear that they should pass it on to someone else they might know is searching too.

Put out an ad

Place an ad on a local community message board or on Craigslist if you are unable to communicate or find a place with someone on your network. Include a picture of yourself in your ad, where you want to live, the rent you want to pay, as well as any specific information about your future living situation and/or needs, such as wanting a non-smoker, non-drinker, or someone who works the same hours as you.

Set up a time to talk

To properly analyze the candidates, dedicate some time to carefully passing through your emails and messages. Create a shortlist of possible roommates and set up a time to talk to them on the phone. This helps you to learn a little more about your future roommate and to ask them more questions such as where they work, where they live at the moment, what they like to do on the weekends etc.

Meet your prospective roommates

You'll have a clearer idea of who you want to meet in person after your screening calls. To meet where you can chat more and get to know each other, pick a local coffee shop or park. You should have a clear idea of whom you feel relaxed and happy living with after your meetings. Ask for references, both personal and technical, for extra assurance, to get a complete picture of your prospective roommate.

Discuss bills, cleaning, and more

Although bills aren't exactly a fun subject to consider, before you move in together, they are very important for you and your new roommate to figure out. Make sure you're both consistent on whether you're sharing the cost of all bills, including talking about how you're sharing food and how you're breaking up the cost of other household products. You may also discuss how to arrange cleaning, communal objects, and which items are out of bounds for each individual. When you are in your new apartment or home, mentioning these things before you move in will help to prevent an awkward situation. 

Create a roommate contract

Draft this down on paper after you negotiate your billing system and make sure that you and your roommate sign it. While this might sound cold, it is important to have everything clearly defined so that everyone knows how costs will be shared.

If you’re moving to a new apartment with your roommate, take the help of Local Movers in Fairfield, CT to move your move stress-free.