When it comes to finding the perfect roommate for you, there are many essential aspects to consider. Just because you get along with someone, know them from work, or even went to school together doesn’t mean they will automatically be the perfect match for you. Although it might take you a while to find a great roommate who matches your criteria, it’s better to wait and ask the critical questions than to rush in and live with someone who will eventually drive you crazy. Keep reading to discover the critical questions to ask a prospective roommate.

Are you Being COVID Conscious?
Right now, safety is essential to everyone, and even if you are quarantining, your roommate might not be doing the same thing. Before moving in with someone, make sure they are on the same page with you about COVID safety. If you have been spending months quarantining, you might not want to move in with someone who goes out regularly or has a public-facing job.
What Does Your Schedule Look Like?
You know your schedule better than anyone, and you know that you would prefer to live with someone whose schedule lines up with yours. If you work at 9–5 and like to be asleep by 10, you probably don’t want a roommate who gets home late and cooks in the kitchen while you’re getting your much-needed rest. Although it’s great to have schedules that allow you to have an apartment to yourself occasionally, you want to find someone whose schedule is similar to yours.
How Much Are You Able to Pay Monthly on Housing?
One of the main reasons roommates have issues is finances and the inability to pay the rent. Keep in mind that once you sign the lease, you are both responsible should the other party be unable to pay on time or at all. It’s also important to consider other factors, such as paying for the internet, electricity, and gas, which both parties should be responsible for. Once you know how much the other person is able to pay, start looking in that price range to make sure it’s affordable for both of you.
As you continue to search for the perfect roommate, take the time to make sure you see eye to eye on many aspects. It’s better to ask more questions and be sure it’s a match than to hop on the first person who shows interest; it will be worth the wait. Do you have any questions about living with a roommate? Ask away in the comments below.