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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.
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.
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
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).
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.
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.
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.
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Roomies
