Locating a Roommate Overseas
Allied International’s Tips for Finding a Roommate
Trying to find a new roommate in the city that you already live can be a difficult process. Now imagine trying to do that in a country that is thousands of miles away. If you are looking to move to a new country, but think you will need a roommate in order to get by, here are some helpful tips to consider before making a commitment that you will regret later.
Utilizing the internet is a great place to start in searching for a new roommate. There are several websites that you can visit that will aid you in your search. Most sites grant you the ability to narrow down your search based on certain demands you may have. Are you looking to rent an apartment or house? Do you want a male or female roommate? Do they allow pets? What kind of lifestyle do you want your new roommate to have? These are the questions you need to ask so you can find a roommate that is compatible. Fortunately, many of the websites that you would use in the United States are also offered overseas. Sites such as EasyRoomate, Roomster, and Craigslist, are great places to start. However, use caution when using these sites, because too often there are scams and outright liars that inhabit them. So once you see one that interests you, make sure to contact them further so you can ensure you find what you are looking for.
Furthermore, if you are relocating because of a job, you might be able to contact your employer to find a roommate that is compatible. Because your potential roomie works in the same company as you, chances are they may have the same goals as you, which lends itself to better situation. You will also be relying on people you trust for information, as opposed to information found on a website that may or may be truthful.
Deeper Questions to Ask Yourself
There are other questions you should ask yourself once you have narrowed down your search. Finding out whether your new roommate is a smoker, how clean they are and how clean they expect you to be, whether they have ever had a roommate before, and how long you expect to be living with them and vice versa, are all factors that could heavily influence your decision. You will also want to find out information about the place you are moving like, rent costs, whose name is on the lease, how other expenses get paid, the size of the place you will be staying, and its condition. You also might want to find out the laws regarding contracts for living arrangements in the country you are moving, that way you fully prepared for what lays in store for you. It would be a terrible situation if you end up evicted in a foreign land just because you did not fully prepare yourself before committing.
You might be thinking that it would be ideal to find someone who has also relocated to that area as a roommate, just because you will probably have similar tastes and life experiences that can make you more comfortable in an unknown place. But consider finding a native born roommate instead. If you find someone that has lived their whole lives there, they can help you assimilate to the area, and can also help you with where to go to get the things you need, and may even help you with a language barrier, if one applies. You will find that you can assimilate quicker, if someone who is knowledgeable in the area is guiding you along the way.
Overall, you should do as much research as you can both on the area you will be living, and the habits and personality of any potential roommates. The best way to feel comfortable in your new residence is by having someone there that you can trust to help you, or share that experience with you. While cost is certainly an important factor when deciding your new place, do not overlook the people in the area that you will be moving.
