<p>So I need some help.</p>
<p>I can't afford dorms. I was already 4K over budget this year, and with my parents financial situation, and my small job not really bringing in the big bucks, I just can't afford it. </p>
<p>So I'm looking at apartments (kinda late in the game, but meh), but all my friends are either living in places too expensive, or have already found their place. So... now I'm looking at filling up a room in a place someone else has already rented. Yanno, answering ads looking for roommates for next year, that sort of thing. I've even considered living in a "Rooming House". </p>
<p>What's anyone's experience with this? I'm pretty worried about living in an apartment with people I've never met; There's bills to pay, are they that trustworthy, are they gonna lock the door (yes I know people who don't do this and have been robbed), and then there's well, are you going to be throwing parties in here every weekend?</p>
<p>Do you suggest it? Suggest avoiding it? Any tips to offer? It's really my only option right now, because single apartments are expensive too (unless I go way off campus, which I might have to).</p>
<p>And while I have this thread, anyone have experience living far off campus and commuting by bus?</p>
<p>I moved into apartments with 3 strangers and moved out in 4 months or so. Hated it. But it’s SO hit or miss, my experience should never have bearing on anyone else’s decision, but it is proof that it can happen.</p>
<p>I’d suggest it if you’re personable and older, preferably. Apartments attract older students and typically more party-friendly students.</p>
<p>A tip? If you want to go with it, make sure you interview the people who will be renting out the place to you. Every single detail.</p>
<p>But yes, I know two people who had a bad experience with getting apartments with random people. They were messy, or loud, or had problems paying the rent, or bringing abusive boyfriends over and then having everyone else help kick him.</p>
<p>With some of them, such as the rooming houses, I don’t think there is a way to talk to the roommates before hand. :\ Honestly, I kind of like the idea of a rooming house, so long as my own door locks (yes I’m worried about that. So sue me. :B) Plus, then if another person doesn’t pay their rent, no biggie for me. But it’s still living with strangers.</p>
<p>But yeah. I guess living with people you don’t know is inherently risky.</p>
<p>Edit: I’m gonna ask another question while I’m here. There were a few old threads on the topic, but nothing too indepth. </p>
<p>Has anyone lived alone in an apartment? Not gonna lie, the thought scares me a little bit, but I don’t think it’s too dangerous. And in a single room in a dorm, too, you’re still surrounded by tons of other people. I dunno. Maybe my apprehensions about it are unwarranted.</p>
<p>Go to your housing office and see if they have a list of off campus rentals. Sometimes they even have a list of people looking for roommates.</p>
<p>^Already done that, and they have a website in which people do this, too.</p>
<p>I don’t need help finding a place (I’ve found plenty) I just need to know if it’s a **** idea. :</p>
<p>Are there any apartment communities near your school with individual leases and roommate matching? That’s my living situation now. Having an individual lease removes all financial concerns with splitting bills, etc. though the advertised roommate matching was BS, so the social/personality aspect is hit or miss, just like a dorm.</p>
<p>My former 3rd roommate did have a problem with locking the front door, among many other things, but she’s gone now and it’s no longer a concern. These issues (visitors, parties, cleaning) can be addressed upon move in and the complex even offered an optional roommate contract for these types of agreements. It’s not always possible to meet with your roommate(s) and evaluate their personality/compatability before signing a lease, therefore it’s vital to have all agreements in writing.</p>
<p>I had MAJOR concerns about living with strangers at first too, but it’s not that bad when you get into the rhythm of the school year. Some of the concern might be personal issues that may involve you breaking out of your comfort zone.</p>
<p>I still contemplate living alone because I prefer full control of the environment, quietness, and not to have to deal with others, but it would be too expensive and I’m afraid of becoming reclusive. My 4/4 apartment is tolerable and reasonably priced to comfortably call home for the next 3ish years.</p>
<p>My son has been doing this for quite some time now. It really is hit or miss…first semester was so-so, the people were ok just not his cup of tea. Now he’s living with really nice peoole and enjoying it. I agree that it is important to find out as much info about potential housemates as possible. Facebook is a good way to get some info and then just be upfront about what the lifestyle choices are of the people in the house…is it a party house or are the students more concerned with their studies, do they smoke, stay up late, have lots of people over? Is the place a mess or do they share chores? Figure out what you are looking for and don’t be afraid to ask questions. Everyone is happier if the fit is good. It can be a lot of fun to live with others, it’s less lonely and a good way to meet people.</p>