Pros and Cons of Living With Roommates

Co-living is becoming extremely popular among students and working professionals. Some are in it for the communal aspect of living. In contrast, others prefer the ease of shifting right in without having to worry about the usual issues of furniture, utilities, or maintenance.

While there’s no shortage of co-living options in San Francisco, finding one that matches your needs, lifestyle, and preferences takes time and requires proper vetting. But, with checking Vybe Living, it’s not impossible. Here are ten things you should check to make sure that the co-living you choose is the best for you.

Who are you going to live with?

You may not be the kind of person who gets along with everyone, and that’s fine. Professional co-living spaces have screening processes in place to categorize tenants based on their lifestyle, profession, hobbies, and preferences. Because of this, you can identify with shortlisted individuals based on similarities in your interests.

What are the necessary facilities available to you?

Apart from the furniture, many co-living spaces provide additional facilities such as Wi-Fi, a full-stacked kitchen, and cleaning and laundry services. Being clear about the amenities that are included in the rent will help you choose the best co-living space.

Are there any additional facilities being offered?

In addition to the necessary things, you might want some extra facilities (because, why not). Find out if the co-living has a pool, spa, or rest and recreational space (for that backyard BBQ maybe?). There might be an extra charge, so find out how much you’ll be shelling out for these luxuries.

Are you comfortable with the location?

Getting around San Francisco is not easy, especially if you consider the traffic that eats into a chunk of your time. Check the travel time from your co-living to your work or college. Other factors like the kind of neighborhood you prefer, and the availability of parks, restaurants, and other amenities should be on your mind when choosing a co-living.

Do you mind having time restrictions?

Each co-living space will have its policy related to in and out times. Some will be more relaxed and others slightly stricter. You’ve got to figure out what you’re most comfortable with.

What are the policies related to guests?

Do they allow guests? If yes, is there any area inaccessible to them? Can you take them into your living quarters? Are they allowed to stay over, if need be? These and a few other such concerns should be clarified from the word go if you expect to socialize regularly.

Do they allow pets?

Animal-lovers are often worried about having to give up their pets if they move to a co-living establishment. But quite a few of them allow pets if other members have no objection. So, whether you’re a pet lover or you prefer not being around animals, either way, check out this detail beforehand for your peace of mind.

Is there a penalty for breaking the contract?

Co-living spaces may offer different contract periods, such as monthly, quarterly, or annually. If you’re opting for a long-term lease, ask them about the penalty for breaking the contract prematurely. You could also find out if there’s any clause that allows you to break the lease under specific circumstances.

Is the co-living space legally valid?

Always ensure that your co-living space has a legal validation. If the accommodation does not have a clearance from the state, the authorities can declare the area legally invalid anytime, and you might have to suffer.

Is there a grace period if there’s a delay in the rent?

No two days are the same, and sometimes, you might fail to pay your rent on time. Many co-living spaces provide a grace period when that happens, but others are stricter. It’s always better to find out what consequences you might have to face on the rare occasions you’re late on your payment.

Checking your compatibility with a co-living space beforehand will help you make the right choice. It will also prepare you to make the necessary adjustments to your lifestyle.

Main advantages of living alone

You own your space and freedom to do what you want and when you want. You can leave your stuff in one place, and after a few days, they will still be there, unless you move them (or have a dog).

Privacy, finally. No one will laugh at you if you leave your room with those ridiculous pajamas, nor will you be questioned if you have arrived accompanied the night before. In short, you do not have to give explanations to anyone.

When you live alone, you do not have to endure anyone’s bad mood, nor the others yours.

Main disadvantages of living alone

• You pay more. Although we are assuming that it is not an insurmountable problem for you, it is a fact that living alone is more expensive.
• Therefore, if you want to save, it will take longer, and your unforeseen payments are coming, you will also suffer more.
• You sacrifice comfort. When facing all the expenses alone, surely you opt for a smaller and worse located apartment than you could have in case of sharing an apartment. And if you can afford a flat only in Paseo de Gracia, you would not be reading this post!
• You have to know and want to be alone. It is a fact; some people prefer not to live alone because of boredom. They need to have company, someone to comment on how the day went when they got home, make plans together, etc. And you, do you know how to be alone?

Main advantages of sharing a flat

• You pay less. As we have been saying, it is the main reason for people who share a flat, either to save or to have the possibility of emancipating themselves.
• You can afford to access more substantial and better-located apartments because by dividing expenses, you can get even more on account than renting a flat alone on the outskirts of the city.
• You have a company. So if you are single, having a roommate with whom to share moments can be fun and even healthy.

Main disadvantages of sharing a flat

• Having a company is not always an advantage! Especially if you are one of the people who enjoy the moments of silence and loneliness. What if your partner has a habit of playing the guitar in the next room?
• We need rules of coexistence. It is already known that the concept of cleaning is different for everyone.
• You have to tolerate each other. Human relationships are complicated enough. If you also add the wear and tear of coexistence, a strong will is required for things to go well.