If you are considering a Davenport rental home with a roommate, you should be aware of what to search for. There are enough horror stories to make anyone think twice about sharing their home with a stranger, even if truly terrible roommates are thankfully rare. The converse is also true: roommates can become some of your closest friends. While there are no guarantees, there are red flags that can help you determine the type of roommate a person may be. Here are a few indicators to watch out for in a potentially bad roommate.
Poorly Written Advertisement
Ad copywriting is not everyone’s strong suit, but a poorly written or unfinished ad may suggest that the person who placed it is concealing something or is unwilling to put much work into even little actions. An advertisement that is misspelled or omits key details about the rental situation could, in any case, be a sign that trouble is on the way.
Vague or Inconsistent Answers
When you enquire about your roommate or your lease terms, that’s another cautionary sign to look out for. Asking why a roommate moved out or why someone is moving in with you and why they need a new place to live is vital if there was ever a roommate. It’s feasible that they were at fault if their responses to these inquiries are evasive or if they come off as unwilling to talk about it.
Overly Messy House
Before committing to anything, investigate the living conditions when responding to a roommate ad. During your visit, make sure the entire area is clean, not just the surfaces. Look for signs that things aren’t being cleaned frequently, such as dusty ceiling fans or a buildup of dirty dishes in the sink. That’s a good enough reason to depart if the rental home is unclean.
Lack of Job or References
In addition to asking about the roommate’s background, inquire about the prospective roommate’s employment and request at least three references. If they do not appear to have a job and are unwilling to provide references, this is an indication that something is amiss. The easiest approach to prevent being stuck with a roommate who won’t be able to pay their share of the rent each month is to ask questions, even if it may feel unpleasant.
Significant Other
The existence of a significant other and how much time that person spends in the home with your potential roommate are key considerations as well. The significant other of a roommate might spend so much time there that they essentially pay no rent. If they tend to be disruptive, you might feel less inclined to accept this agreement.
Listen to Your Intuition
When you meet someone, even though they might seem like the perfect roommate on paper, something just feels off. Even if you can’t immediately see what’s wrong, that uneasy feeling could be your intuition warning you that something is wrong. If you do not feel comfortable, it is best to trust your instincts and seek elsewhere.
Living with roommates can be difficult, but finding the correct one can enhance your life! Are you trying to find a place to rent where you may live with one or two roommates? Nearby quality rental homes are available from Real Property Management Lakeside. Contact our office or check out our listings online.
We are pledged to the letter and spirit of U.S. policy for the achievement of equal housing opportunity throughout the Nation. See Equal Housing Opportunity Statement for more information.
