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
Another warning sign is if you ask about the roommate situation or the lease terms. 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 possible they were at fault if their responses to these questions are evasive or they come across as unwilling to talk about it.
Overly Messy House
If you are responding to a roommate ad, be sure the living situation is suitable before committing. During your visit, make sure the entire area is clean, not just the surfaces. Look for signs that things aren’t being cleaned regularly, such as dirty dishes stacking up in the sink or dusty ceiling fans. A dirty rental property is justification enough to look elsewhere.
Lack of Job or References
Ask the prospective roommate about themselves, their career, and at least two references in addition to getting to know them better. If they do not appear to have a job and are unwilling to provide references, this is an indication that something is amiss. It may be uncomfortable to inquire about a potential roommate’s financial stability, but doing so is the only surefire method to prevent ending up in a situation where one person is unable to pay their monthly rent.
Significant Other
If your potential roommate has a significant other, you should think carefully about how much time they spend together in the house. A roommate’s significant other may spend so much time in the apartment that they essentially pay no rent for it. In particular, if they are obtrusive or boisterous, you might not be inclined to consent to this arrangement.
Listen to Your Intuition
On paper, a person may appear to be the perfect roommate, but upon meeting them, something just feels wrong. Even if you are unable to immediately identify the problem, that uneasy sensation can simply be your intuition warning you that something is amiss. The best course of action is to trust your gut and seek out alternative accommodations if necessary.
Finding the proper roommate can make your life even better even if sharing a space with others can be difficult. Are you searching for a rental house that you and one or more roommates could live in? Real Property Management Brevard has a selection of quality rental properties in your vicinity. Contact our office or check out our listings online.