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For Better or Worse: Key Questions to Ask Before Cohabitating
Photo courtesy of Camden
Photo courtesy of Camden
Rachel Anderson
Tuesday, Aug. 23, 2022

Whether you are graduating from college, relocating to a new city, or are just looking for a lifestyle change, you may wonder if moving in with a roommate is the right move for you. There are many factors to consider when deciding whether or not to cohabitate in your Camden apartment or townhome.

While there are some definite advantages of having a roommate, such as splitting rent, there are also some potential disadvantages to consider. Weighing all of your options is always the best idea to ensure are making the best decision, both financially and for your peace of mind.

Crunching the Numbers

One of the biggest advantages of living with a roommate is splitting the rent. As rental rates continue to rise in large cities, many people are opting to live with a roommate. Cohabitating can easily save you and your roommate a couple of hundred dollars a month, especially when factoring in additional utilities like water and electricity. Although saving money is great, there are a handful of other factors to consider in your potential search for a roommate as well.

Lonely No More

If the coronavirus epidemic taught us anything, it’s just how important community is. Whether it’s having someone to watch your favorite TV show with or share a meal with, it’s nice to have company. On the flip side, your roommate may be around more than you bargained for, especially if they are a homebody. For better or worse, your roommate is going to be dwelling in the apartment too, so make sure you discuss your shared interests and living habits.

Built-In Sitter

Are you someone with a busy schedule that relies on hired pet care from time to time? Or maybe you travel frequently and need someone to keep your exotic plants on a strict watering regimen. Having someone around to check on things for you that already lives in the apartment is a win-win. Although make sure to check with your potential roommate to see if this is something they’d be comfortable with before making any plans.

Many Camden communities, such as Camden Dilworth in Charlotte, North Carolina offer floor plans that are perfect for roommates! The B1 floorplan is a 2 bed, 2 bath floor plan that shares a common kitchen/living area, as well as a centrally located stackable washer and dryer. Both bedrooms measure 13' x 11’, so you and your roommates will not have to fight over who gets the larger space either!

Cleaning Habits

Are you a self-proclaimed clean freak than can’t stand when dishes pile up in the sink? If so, you may want to consider the possibility that your roommate may not be. Talking about each other’s habits and expected level of cleanliness may help you decide whether or not having a roommate is worth it in the long run.

Day-to-Day Schedules

Do you and your potential roommate work similar 9-5 schedules or does one of you work the night shift? Is one of you an early riser who likes to listen and dance around to music in the kitchen as they are making breakfast? These are all things to consider when deciding if having a roommate is right for you. Keep in mind that everyone has a different sensitivity to noise and living with someone who has a drastically different schedule than you may cause tension in your living relationship that could lead to future issues.

Living with another person is not for everyone. Some people find comfort in living on their own and embracing their individualism, while others simply enjoy having someone else around. Signing a lease is an important commitment, so it’s worth weighing all the pros and cons before making a final decision.

Camden communities mentioned

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