Your home can be many things—your sanctuary, your recharging station, or even just a brief stopping point before moving to more permanent digs. But it can also be a source of stress. However you view the place you live, with a home comes responsibility and expenses. One way to share the load is to move in with a roommate. When deciding if you want to go solo or live with another person, it’s a good idea to weigh the pros and cons of each living arrangement.
Going Solo
If you decide to live alone, consider the following:
Pros
- It’s all mine! The idea of living alone can be especially appealing if you had five college roommates or come from a large family. You’ll finally be able to do things your way and on your own schedule.
- Self-sufficiency. Living alone and supporting yourself may be one of your life goals. Maybe you equate it with being a “grown-up?”
Cons
- All that work. If you live alone, there’s only one person doing the dishes and cleaning that bathtub—you. Plan on spending a big chunk of your weekend catching up on chores.
- Money issues. Shouldering the costs of your home by yourself can be challenging. Rent, utilities and cable bills will add up quickly.
Hi, Roomie!
Sharing your living space is a great idea for a number of reasons. Check out the following pros and cons:
Pros
- Split down the middle. Dividing the costs of your rent, utilities, household items and even food can make a much nicer and/or bigger place affordable.
- Share the load. Having only half the responsibility for cleaning and maintaining your place can be a big load off your mind. Accomplishing these duties will also take much less time.
Cons
- It bounced?! Unless you know your roommate’s financial “personality” before moving in together, he could be a total flake with money. He might even forget to mail that rent check. If issues like this persist, it could make for a tense living situation.
- Give me some space, man. Living with a roommate means less privacy. Even in a large place, another person can cramp your style.
Make your own individual lists of pros and cons for solo living and finding a roommate. You’ll then be ready for the next step—making the move!
