Finding a roommate has never been easier, but figuring out when to start looking or how to go about it? That can feel a bit trickier. Whether you’re searching for someone to move in with or inviting someone to join your space, we’ve got you covered with answers to all your questions – even the ones you didn’t know you had.
As a rule of thumb, it’s best to start your search 30 to 90 days before your move. Start too early, and options will be scarce (no one’s planning six months just yet). Start too late, and you might end up settling for a less-than-ideal match.
Now, as for how to find that perfect roommate? Oh, we’ve got that down. Grab your notebook and let’s dive in:
1. Where to find Roommates
Tap Into Your Network: Start by asking friends, family, or colleagues if they know anyone looking for a roommate. Rooming with someone within your circle fast-tracks trust. But remember, just because someone’s your best friend doesn’t mean they’ll make the best roommate. Make sure your personalities and habits align before committing.
Social media platforms: If you prefer going old-school, Facebook and Reddit are still solid options. However, the pool can be limited, and you’ll need to ask plenty of questions to gauge compatibility. On Facebook, joining groups with keywords like “rental,” “real estate,” or “finding roommates in [your city]” is a good strategy. Be sure to filter by the most recent posts to find active listings.
Roommate Finder Apps: You know what they say: you can’t bake a cake without eggs, and you can’t find roommates without a great app these days.
Enter Diggz, your go-to for connecting with potential roomies. Signing up is a breeze—just three minutes of your time, and you’re ready to start your search.
Of course, there are also other popular platforms like Craigslist, Roommatch, roommates.com, and more. Each roommate finder has a different focus, features, and pricing. So make sure you can try out the app, features, and demand before committing to any upgrades. If you’re a student hunting for off-campus housing, the Amber App is a top choice among students.
If you are in a time crunch, you might cast a wide net and try out several channels and apps to make sure you can find a roommate within your timeframe. Ultimately you just need one (or two) good roommates, so focus on quality over quantity when trying out different platforms.
2. Creating a Roommate Wanted Listing
Ready to find your ideal roomie? You’ve got two choices: advertise the room you’re renting or search for someone to share your space. But remember, your listing is your golden ticket – or a potential dealbreaker. A listing riddled with typos and missing details won’t exactly attract the crème de la crème.
Therefore, ensure your listing is complete and has everything potential roommates might want to know. Your bio should cover all the essentials that could impact your living situation, such as drinking habits, pet ownership, or relationship status. These details make way for a more compatible match.
Luckily, with Diggz, it’s easy to fill out your profile with all these essentials and find roomies who vibe with your lifestyle. Our lifestyle survey even throws in pre-answered questions from potential matches regarding their habits, making finding your match a breeze.
3. Or Listing Your Space for Rent
So, you’re renting out a room or subleasing? Great! But here’s the deal: the longer your room sits empty, the slimmer your chances of finding a top-notch roommate. To avoid that, follow these tips:
- Price it Right: Your price is the first thing people will filter by. Set it too low, and you might seem shady. Set it too high, and you risk scaring away potential tenants. Find that sweet spot.
- Make it Pop: Add attractive photos of your room in good lighting and write a compelling description. You can also include nearby hotspots or points of interest in your listing, such as a park or a popular neighborhood gem. It can make the locality more desirable. Other important information includes any updated appliances, testimonials from previous roommates, etc.
- Be Flexible with Viewings: Open up your schedule for potential roommates to visit. This not only helps them make an informed decision but also lets you gauge if they’re a good fit through casual chat
4. Pics or It Didn’t Happen: Making Your Space Pop
As we’ve said, making your room pop is a biggie. Ensure your photos are taken in great lighting, showcasing as much natural light as possible. If you’ve mentioned amenities like updated appliances or a cute reading nook, flaunt them!
If the room’s looking a bit bland, don’t hesitate to use AI to stage it. You can add stylish wall decor or a trendy bed frame to highlight its potential. Just remember, if you use AI, it’s good etiquette to mention it or include before-and-after shots. You don’t want to catfish potential roommates, right?
The Roommate Search: Scrolling, Stalking, and Screening
Now that you’ve set up all the logistics, it’s time to dive into the actual search. Let the games begin!
Finding a roommate isn’t exactly rocket science, but it does call for a bit of savvy. When you’re scrolling through endless profiles and finally spot someone who seems like “the one,” don’t rush into things just yet. This is where you channel your inner detective and do a bit of digging. Yes, we are talking about some friendly online sleuthing – stalk away!
Always ask for references from previous landlords or roommates. On Diggz, you can easily request references from former roommates using a Messenger invite. A glowing review from someone who’s lived with them before is worth its weight in gold. But remember, trust your gut – there’s only so much a reference can tell you.
And let’s be real – the main thing you should triple-check is their employment status and ability to pay rent. After all, most of us are getting roommates to split costs, not just to have a new buddy to binge-watch shows with. The fun, friendship part? That’s just the cherry on top.
5. Meeting the Roommate IRL
So, you’ve narrowed it down to two or three promising candidates. Now comes the final boss level: the meetup. Whether you’re meeting IRL or virtually, this is the make-or-break moment.
Rany Burstein, CEO of Diggz, recalls an interesting encounter where he thought he found the perfect roommate on Craigslist – only to have the door slammed in his face when the potential roommate realized “Rany” was a guy and not a girl. Awkward! Thankfully, this kind of mix-up is less likely with today’s tech, but meeting in person still has its perks.
Why is this step so important? Because no matter how charming someone’s texts and emojis are, they don’t always translate to real life. In-person meetups (or video calls if that’s more convenient) help you pick up on vibes and see if your personalities truly click. Are they easygoing, respectful, or maybe even a bit too quirky for your taste? It’s all easier to gauge face-to-face.
According to a poll with our Diggz users, here’s where people prefer meeting potential roommates…
6. The Roommate Interview: Ask the Questions That Matter
Whether it’s your first meetup or a casual video chat, treating the conversation like a mini-interview is a smart move. Sure, the Diggz Roommate Finder covers a lot of lifestyle basics, but there are still a few things you’ll need to dig into yourself.
Start with the essentials: Are they just looking for someone to split costs with, or are they hoping for a new bestie? Then there are the deeper questions – like their stance on drug use, whether they have any allergies or aversions, and even what their typical week looks like. These details might seem minor, but trust me, they make a world of difference when you’re sharing a living space.
Honestly, it might be time to go old-school and grab a pen and paper for this part. Jot down your questions and take notes like you’re conducting an old-fashioned interview. Need help figuring out what to ask? We’ve got you covered. You can check out our complete list of must-ask roommate questions right here.
7. Tour de Room: Why Seeing (and Showing) the Space Matters
If you’re planning to move in with a roommate, taking a physical tour of their space is a must. Jonas Bordo, CEO of Dwellsy, suggests having a trusted friend or relative visit the place if you can’t do it yourself. Long-distance apartment hunters are particularly vulnerable to rental scams, so if you can’t send someone, it’s worth making the trip yourself to see the neighborhood and apartment in person.
On the flip side, if you’re the one showing your space to potential roommates, presentation is key. While a few dirty dishes can be cleaned up quickly, clutter can give the space an uninviting vibe. Make sure everything is tidy, well-ventilated, and smelling fresh. Open windows to let in light and air, creating a welcoming atmosphere.
This is also a great chance to combine the tour with an interview, so use your time wisely to gauge compatibility while showing the space. Rany Burstein suggests.
“This is the time to highlight those special features in your apartment. Mention those unique kitchen gadgets you’ve invested in, your top-tier sound system, or that ridiculously comfy couch. Don’t forget the natural light pouring in from large windows, building amenities like a gym or rooftop lounge, or how close you are to parks and trendy cafes. These details often get overlooked in photos or basic descriptions, but they’re the little things that make your space stand out.”
8. Verify the Listing
Before committing, always verify the listing to avoid falling victim to scams. Rental fraud is more common than you might think, and taking steps to confirm details can save you from serious trouble. Trust your instincts – if something feels off, it probably is. Here’s how to protect yourself:
- Research the Listing: Cross-check the rental information on multiple platforms. Scammers often reuse photos and descriptions.
- Watch for Red Flags: If the rent is unusually low or if the landlord rushes you to make a decision, proceed with caution.
- Never Send Money Before Seeing the Place: Insist on a physical tour or at least a virtual walkthrough before handing over any payments.
- Verify Ownership: Make sure the person you’re dealing with is the actual owner or a legitimate representative. You can ask for a copy of the lease, a government-issued ID, or a utility bill that includes the advertised address. Do your due diligence before you sign the lease.
- Use Secure Payment Methods: Avoid wire transfers, Venmo, or Zelle, and consider paying through secure platforms that offer some protection. Always use traceable payment methods like credit cards, PayPal (opt for “goods and services” over “friends and family”), or cashier’s checks. These offer both a transaction record and extra security. While no method is foolproof, having documentation can be crucial if issues arise. PayPal’s buyer protection is worth the small fee, and some landlords might even absorb it.
For more in-depth tips on avoiding rental scams, check out our top 5 tips to avoid being scammed.
Post Roommate Search
9. Set Roommate Rules: Good Fences Make Good Neighbors
Roommate agreements are a great way to keep friendships intact and avoid unnecessary conflicts. No need to go full Sheldon Cooper with a 50-page agreement, but having a clear understanding can save you headaches down the road. Here are some must-haves for your roommate agreement:
- Rent, Utilities, & Other Expenses: Who pays what and when? How will utilities be split? Will you be splitting simple household expenses like groceries, decor, etc? These are all items that must be pre-decided before moving in together.
- Household Chores: Set up cleaning schedules and divvy up tasks.
- Guests and Visitors: Lay down rules for overnight guests and how often visitors can drop by.
- Noise and Quiet Hours: Agree on quiet hours, especially late at night.
- Shared and Private Spaces: Define which areas are communal and what are off-limits. Set rules for sharing items like food or appliances.
- Pets: Establish pet policies, including responsibilities and any restrictions.
- Conflict Resolution: Decide how you’ll handle disagreements and communicate effectively.
- Move-Out Terms: Cover notice periods, security deposits, and the process for subletting if needed.
You can also skip the hassle of creating one from scratch by using one of the many roommate agreement templates available online. The University of San Diego’s Roommate Agreement is a solid and comprehensive option – worth checking out!
10. The Fine Print: Legal Agreements
Now, let’s talk legalities. Signing a rental agreement without thoroughly reviewing it is where many renters get into trouble. Take this Redditor’s story: they agreed on an 8-month lease with their landlord, but the lease actually stated 12 months. They signed without double-checking, and when they were ready to move out, the landlord insisted they had 4 months left.
It was ultimately resolved as a simple mistake, but it could have gone much worse. The lesson? Always read your lease carefully and ensure all clauses match what was agreed upon.
To avoid any surprises, here are key things to check before signing your rental lease:
- Lease Term: Confirm the lease duration, rent amount, due date, and accepted payment methods. You should also verify whether your lease is automatically renewed or for a fixed period.
- Security Deposit: Understand the deposit amount, conditions for deductions, and how/when it’s returned.
- Rent: This is the most critical part of your lease, so triple-check it. Verify the rent amount, due date, any grace periods, and late fees – and make sure they align with state laws. Also, check if rent increases are allowed and under what conditions.
- Maintenance and Repairs: Clarify who is responsible for maintenance, and repairs, and how to request them.
- Utilities and Services: Know which utilities are included and which ones you’re responsible for.
- Early Termination and Subletting: Review the policy for breaking the lease early or subletting and any associated fees.
- Rules and Restrictions: Pay attention to policies on guests, pets, noise, and any other specific rules.
- Move-Out Procedure: Understand the notice period, cleaning requirements, and final inspection process.
11. And Finally Comes the Moving-In Day
Yay! You’ve found your roommate, and now it’s time for the big move. Moving into a new place is both thrilling and a bit nerve-wracking.
First, a tip that goes without saying: finish packing at least a day before. And the best advice we’ve ever heard? Prepare a separate “first-night” bag. Fill it with essentials you’ll need on day one, like PJs, a mug, some plates, toiletries, slippers, snacks, a phone charger, and anything else for immediate use. Trust us – this will make your moving day so much easier.
If you’ve got friends in the city, skip the movers and turn it into a fun group effort. But if you’re aiming for a more organized move (maybe less fun, though), hiring movers might be the way to go. Our partners at iMoving can make the process smooth and stress-free. Just remember, some landlords require notice if you’re bringing movers, and ensure they have insurance.
And finally, create a checklist and pack your items in clearly labeled cartons. It’ll save you a ton of hassle when unpacking.
For more tips, check out our apartment move-in checklist.
Cheers to Your Roommate Finding Journey
And there you have it! Your ultimate guide on how to find, choose, and move in with the perfect roommate. Sure, it’s a mix of nerves and excitement, but when done right, living with a roommate can be one of the best experiences – especially when you find a roommate who is more Chandler than Joey.
Remember, the key is preparation. Start your search early, know what to look for, and set clear expectations from day one. Follow these tips, and you’ll be well on your way to a smooth roommate experience – one where your biggest worry is deciding what to binge-watch together on Netflix.
Happy roommate hunting, and may the roommate odds be ever in your favor!