Has anyone ever roommated w/ someone you didn't know? (Phoenix: rental, HOA)

[The_Cadillac_Lawyer]

I'm looking for a roommate but am a little aprehensive to take on a stranger. I know this may be trivial but I don't want to end up w/ someone wierd lol. I'm not really afraid of somone stealing or anything like that (have nothing of value in my house), but just getting into a situation that would be difficult to get out of

[las vegas drunk]

I have done it many times. In fact, the first of this month I just moved in with people I did not know. This time, it is a guy and his boyfriend, and I have the other room. It is interesting, I tell you.

[1984vt]

I did this once in Delaware. I was a single female at the time and there was a rapist in the area that targeted females living alone. I put an ad in the paper and did not specify gender.

The people that came from the woodwork..

The person I choose turned out to be a fine roommate. We didn't become best friends because we had different interest at the time, she wanted to spend her free time with her boyfriend and I spent mine in the singles scene with my single friends.

My advice: Specify in your ad if you want a non-smoker, male/female. If you don't care about gender, you may want to go ahead and post your gender so women who do not want a male roommate will not apply and waste your time. Copy an application and use it with all applicants. Know the rental laws in your state. Usually, if no lease and written agreement is in place, the situation defaults to a month to month lease situation so you can give them a month's notice to vacate.

[shiphead]

Same here. I had no money or time to be choosy or picky. It was a little strange and wary at first, but he turned out to be alright. He is one of my friends now.

[Bummer]

Originally Posted by trudawg

I'm looking for a roommate but am a little aprehensive to take on a stranger. I know this may be trivial but I don't want to end up w/ someone wierd lol. I'm not really afraid of somone stealing or anything like that (have nothing of value in my house), but just getting into a situation that would be difficult to get out of

Tough question, Trudawg.

Nowadays with all the "renter protection" laws it becomes even scarier if you are the landlord.

Good Luck!

[The_Cadillac_Lawyer]

I'm a guy, but would I would prefer a women roomie. I seem to get along better with females, but I'm open to whatever. I think the fact I work two jobs and go to school, an am never there will help. Would be great to find someone with polar opposite schedules, but I'm dreaming....lol.
Guess I"ll just put up an add and see

[he's so hott]

I'm planning to get a roommate during my next move and it'll be with someone I don't know. As long as you screen the person to the best of your abilities you should be ok. It'd be interesting to say the least and that is one thing I'm kind of looking forward to.

[L33TZOR]

(For those looking)
In Phoenix, you should be able to find your own place for cheap enough depending on which area you want to live in. I see 2 bedroom apts going for $450 along I-17 and other places while driving like less that $400. How can you beat that?

(For those sharing their home)
Its hard to offer your place to someone you know, only because if they get into financial trouble be prepared to kick out a friend who may no longer stay your friend.

You may want to consider a large deposit and first and last and spell out common areas and length of stay terms to protect you.
I would also protect yourself by stipulations of visitors staying the night or pets, smoking, or quiet hours.

[Grannysroost]

Originally Posted by L33TZOR

(For those looking)
I would also protect yourself by stipulations of visitors staying the night or pets, smoking, or quiet hours.

Kind of sad, as these things used to be common courtesy, the list could go on....

[The_Cadillac_Lawyer]

i probably wouldn't mind over-night guest (no longer than a weekend). Smoking would have to be on the balcony, and my HOA doesn't allow pets in the building. So I think it would work for me if it works for them.
I live downtown right off the light rail, in a high-rise 1500 sq ft condo. I definately feel that it would be an attractive deal to someone @ 550 month utilities included! So we'll see what happens.
BTW, if you know any sane people looking forward them to me