Good insights in Homeowner? Here’s How to Make Your New Roommate Feel Welcome by Christine Busser on MovingCost.com.
I agree with with most of it. Yes, you should make decisions together. Yes, allow a new housemate to weigh in on redecorating. Even encourage the new housemate to add a piece of furniture or a picture to a common area. Yes, being flexible is a good idea.
But one critical correction. Ms. Busser writes “Whenever roommates move in together, it is customary to discuss how each person feels about having guests over, how clean the house should be kept and how groceries may be divided.” These things should be discussed before agreeing to live together. In addition to guests, cleanliness and groceries, potential housemates should talk about bills, noise, kitchen use and daily routines. A big part of feeling welcome is being able to relax because all the important stuff has already been decided. Much more about this in the book.
