Introduction
Share house involves two or more people sharing the same living space as well as housing expenses. There are many reasons why people share house but the most common ones are need for companionship, to cut down housing costs or earn some extra income. House rent takes up quite a sizeable chunk of most people’s income. This is particularly the case in most towns and cities where housing costs don’t come cheap. House sharing therefore becomes the better option for many house seekers. House sharing is very common among many young professionals and students due to their restricted budget.
History
In the times past, housing was not much of a problem like it is today. Life then was more affordable but recent times have seen the world experience an economic downturn. This, in turn, has led to reduced levels of disposal incomes. High cost of living and constrained budgets has meant that people are always devising ways and means to make it in the survival game. Share house is one such survival strategy. This trend is more noticeable in urban areas where the cost of living is generally higher than rural areas.
Features
Given that people come from different backgrounds and therefore have different values, finding a suitable person to share house is always a challenge, even when it involves a friend. One way to address this problem is to familiarize yourself with the fundamentals of sharing house. There are 5 things you need to know about share house before you make the decision to go this route.
Legality:
Before you decide to share house, you have to be sure that what you are about to do is within the law. Some landlords will not allow their tenants to share house and so this is one area you want to be clear about.
Compatibility:
Your housemate’s interests should, as much as possible, be compatible with yours. You will save yourself a lot of trouble when you share house if you get someone who has similar interests to yours. This is also the point where it is important to be aware of each other’s family and criminal background. You want avoid unpleasant surprises in future.
Financial capability and obligations:
It should be clear to everyone intending to share house how much and when they will need to contribute to the housing budget. Housemates should be able to meet their financial obligations without a problem.
House chores:
If there are any house chores that will have to be shared, this should be discussed and an agreement reached. Roles and responsibilities need to be spelt out clearly.
Compromise:
We all have out shortcomings because no one is perfect. You and your housemate will need to determine how far each one of you is ready to compromise their values or lifestyle to accommodate each other’s weaknesses. At the same time, share house personal boundaries have to be set to allow self expression and privacy.
Tips and comments
It is useful if you and your housemate have a house agreement drawn in which house rules are clearly stated. This will enhance harmonious living and minimise conflicts or misunderstandings as you share house. There should be room for dialogue as well in the event that boundaries are crossed.
