1. Use Your Existing Networks
You already have friends, family, and co-workers who know you well and have networks of their own contacts, so let them know you're looking for a roommate. You could post a message on Facebook or on other social media group pages you belong to, such as college alumni groups.
2. Try Apps and Websites
If you've never used an app or website to find a new roommate, give one a try. They’re set up similar to dating sites, but match people up according to interests, lifestyle habits, cleanliness preferences, and many other characteristics. Start with one of the following:
On this website, you create a personal profile and then contact potential roommates through the site. You can surf the site to find the roommate you're looking for or sit back and let them come to you.
On Roomster, you search for roommates by location. There are multiple ways to search, and the site’s very user friendly. You can contact people directly from the search results page or do a little more digging by viewing their Facebook profiles.
The Roomi app has built-in chat and messaging, and you can sort results according to the roommate characteristics that are most important to you. This works well if you're picky about certain things, like cleaning routines.
3. Do Your Due Diligence
It can be helpful to spend some time with potential apartment-mates before you make your decision. It doesn’t hurt to do a background check if you don’t know the person. But after that, why not meet them for coffee and make sure you're compatible in the following ways:
What tips do you have for finding the ideal apartment-mate? Tell us in the comments below!