RoomMates at 55+ (moving, separate, friend, years)

[willdufauve]

Some posters on tight incomes have said they're considering living with roommates in order to afford a better place than they can get on their own income.

Since we're 60 and already own a house, but are concerned about being able to afford it as we age, I'm wondering what would be an acceptable roommate situation for most people.

For example, we're non-smoking, health conscious vegetarians...some people appreciate that, others would prefer a smoke, a steak, and a good stiff drink. Would you share a house with a couple? Strangers, or a friend or family member you already know?

Let's explore this as a possible alternative to isolation and financial distress.

[Tesaje]

I hope not to be in that situation. But if I were, some of that would depend on the living arrangements. Will the tenant have their own living area separate from yours or will it just be a room with shared common areas (kitchen, bath, living room?)

If separate, then things like meat eating and personal habits if not too obnoxious are less important, tho I would always insist on a non-smoker. If shared, then it becomes a lot harder it becomes the more different a person's habits and the more you want someone who is more a friend than not. Similar neatness habits are also important.

[MotleyCrew]

I would insist that they carry an insurance policy to cover your home for damages. You may want to have an attorney draw up your lease agreement. We live in such a scary world now. Best of luck

[willdufauve]

Originally Posted by MotleyCrew

I would insist that they carry an insurance policy to cover your home for damages. You may want to have an attorney draw up your lease agreement. We live in such a scary world now. Best of luck

Whoa! Thanks for your input but I'm not looking for a roomy today!

Quite a few older people in the retirement forum have mentioned considering this as an option. You both make good points; that's what I wanted, but I have other plans for the weekend (unless Halle Berry responds).

[GLS]

Originally Posted by willdufauve

Some posters on tight incomes have said they're considering living with roommates in order to afford a better place than they can get on their own income.

Since we're 60 and already own a house, but are concerned about being able to afford it as we age, I'm wondering what would be an acceptable roommate situation for most people.

For example, we're non-smoking, health conscious vegetarians...some people appreciate that, others would prefer a smoke, a steak, and a good stiff drink. Would you share a house with a couple? Strangers, or a friend or family member you already know?

Let's explore this as a possible alternative to isolation and financial distress.

My house is a ranch style and I designed it with two master suites on separate ends. The idea is to take in a room-mate at some point.
This person would have to have a good income, be self-supporting, and non-smoking. I would strongly prefer a room-mate I could have a good rib-eye with, and that would enjoy sharing a bottle of wine.

Specifically, I am thinking of a single, educated female with no more than one pet (a golden retriever), no children, and with hobbies of gardening and house cleaning. Although I am 61 years old, I don't believe in age discrimination. Therefore, a women several years my junior, who is also a massage therapist and nudist would be acceptable.

PS I have not reached consensus on this demographic with my wife yet.

[casualobserver]

I just knew this thread would head south as soon as I saw it go up. Although you did it with good style, gls!

[jhlcomp]

Good question. Yes, you would want to cover all bases as suggested. I believe it would work. If I were in such a situation, I would want to really get to know the other person and ensure that we have very similar life styles and habits. I would also do a background check. In the process of doing this, ensure that the person's SSN is valid. You would be amazed how many are not.

[knoxgarden]

Originally Posted by GLS

PS I have not reached consensus on this demographic with my wife yet.

Your wife may have her own ideas about what she'd like in a roommate.

[GLS]

Originally Posted by knoxgarden

Your wife may have her own ideas about what she'd like in a roommate.

My wife's primary prerequisite attribute for a roommate is a sense of humor.
However, just in case, your post has been deleted from my computer.

[eureka1]

To me the worst part would be having to share a kitchen. THAT'S where your lifestyles can conflict. I rented to a vegan college student once. She cooked six times a day (they're always hungry) and left crusty chunks of brown rice all over the stove. On the other hand I rented to a fellow who spent all his time at the gym and lived solely on Healthy Choice cereal right out of the box. He was perfect!! I would suggest a formal rental agreement but not a lease. Keep it month-to-month. More and more people will be doing this as the recession worsens and renting with others is a great way to meet people if you're moving to a new area.