Tips to make house sharing over 40 a success

More and more people in their 40s, 50s, 60s and beyond are sharing houses these days and benefit from not only the financials and better quality of housing, but also the sense of community and fun that can come with it. Many people find that it gives them a renewed sense of purpose and opportunity, some find new friends, and some are just happy to have a more spacious and better located room.

But whilst there are many benefits, it also makes sense to understand the potential pitfalls and to take steps to avoid any problems. Here’s some advice we have gathered from successful 40+ sharers on how they have made living with others a success:   

1. Have your own bathroom

If you can, look for a place with your own or en-suite bathroom. According to the Cohabitas House Sharing Report 61% of respondents rank this as their most important feature when sharing in mid life. What might seem like something hard to find or a bit of a luxury is well worth looking for to give you that extra bit of privacy and freedom to use the shower whenever you feel like it.

2. Agree the house rules early on

Discuss how you will split the bills, what TV and broadband package to get and whether you want to share any grocery shopping or to have meals together from time to time. Check what is already included in the monthly rent and then think about who will clean and tidy – having a cleaner might make sense – a small expense in the bigger scheme of things that can remove a lot of tension and frustration when sharing.

3. Be honest about your needs

The great thing about not being in your 20s anymore is that you know much better what you like and don’t like. Be honest with your housemates about what is important to you and talk about it. Do you need a few hours to yourself every day? Or do you like to do your laundry on a certain day of the week? Do you like to talk about your day when you get home? Do you like to hear other people’s news, or even to meet their friends? Tell others and make an effort to accommodate their needs in turn.

4. Look for extra space for visitors or for working from home

Will your kids or friends be staying over from time to time? It might be worth finding a place with the possibility of a spare room for when visitors want to stay. With many of us now working from home, an extra office area or study greatly helps as well to concentrate and make your video calls. Not always easy to find but great value if you do find a place with additional space to use.   

5. Look for people with similar values and sense of humour

The second most important feature people state is finding like-minded people to share with. Even though you might have different interests and hobbies look for someone with a similar mindset to help make day-to-day living easier. Finding out a bit more about your potential future housemates is time well spent.

6. Ask if you can bring some of your own smaller pieces of furniture

Most private room rentals are furnished or part-furnished, but tastes are very different and bringing some of your personal items with you will make you feel at home much more quickly.

Get in touch and let us know your own experiences or tips for successful sharing.