Top Tips to Become the Perfect Housemate

It’s February and you have finally signed up to your new student digs with your fellow flat mates, how exciting! You are counting down the days until you and your pals can move in, start having a good time and enjoy the best years of your life at university. Sharing a house with a group of friends can be great fun but have you thought about constantly sharing space with friends or sometimes strangers? Getting the balance right can make all the difference in the time you spend in your property. This month’s blog is all about how to help you be the perfect housemate and survive your first student house experience.

Communicate, Communicate, Communicate!

As we all know communication is normally the key to success when living with others. Nobody likes those awkward moments where an issue has arisen in a house full of friends. Whether it is clothes left on the bathroom floor or an outstanding water bill a house meeting and rota will help to keep harmony in a student house.

Pay your way

Living as a group normally means splitting the bills and acting responsible enough to pay on time. You may find it slightly tricky managing money matters of the household and communicating this with all involved. Make sure the person paying the bills out of their account receives their money on time and agree this date at the start of your tenancy. It’s always good to talk!

Do your bit

One of the most important things to remember when living with a group is to always help out and do your bit. No one likes living in a messy and unclean house, so establishing a rota and doing your part will help to keep on top of the mess. Cleaning up after yourself is a great way to stay in everyone’s good books and maintain a positive relationship with your flat mates; it might also earn you a cup of tea and a biscuit from a happy housemate!

Think about the neighbours

Ok, so you are now nearly an expert on being the perfect housemate but it is also important to be a good neighbour. We all know that students enjoy the odd after party or two but remember to be mindful of the people next door. They may have full time jobs, have young family or pets and will not appreciate noise in the early hours of the morning. It is always a good idea to let your neighbours know you are planning a party, or better yet invite them round to join you.

Signing the tenancy agreement

After you have conducted your viewing with one of the lovely team at Bowson Lettings you will be ready to sign your new contract. Remember to try and avoiding signing the tenancy agreement separately and arrange to sign altogether. This means you can ask the relevant questions and discuss with the group. It is important you all agree with the terms and conditions before signing, a member of our team will be available to discuss any questions you may have about the tenancy or property.

We hope our blog has given you some valuable advice on how to make living with others as easy as possible. Remember if you have any questions about a joint tenancy our friendly team are here to help.