| Not all strangers are crazy   A new school year often brings with it a new living situation. Maybe you're switching dorms. Maybe you're moving out of mom's house. Maybe you're finally getting an apartment. But living with strangers can be hard, which is why picking the right one is essential: Match lifestyles Cleanliness, sleep schedules, and noise levels tend to be conflict areas. If you prefer a quiet house, live with quiet people. Compromise A shared house necessitates a lot of give-and-take. So if a potential roommate is demanding at the outset, or controls the apartment search, or is unreasonably picky, it's a bad sign. Discuss money It's a tough subject but it pays to address it. At the very least you should know your roommate is financially stable enough to cover rent, utilities, and food every month. Know your boundaries Do you want to split the cost of household items? Do want internet and cable? Are you okay with boyfriends/girlfriends? Parties? It's not about being picky. It's about responsibly choosing people you can handle. Know their boundaries Discuss their expectations, too. Having a roommate is a two-way street. You aren't king or queen of the castle.  Renting off-campus? Know your state's tenant laws! When can your landlord keep your security deposit, when can you get evicted, and what recourse do you have if there's a maintenance or safety concern on your property? A good place to start: the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, which lists tenant rights state by state. |  The "finding an apartment" checklist What should you look for before signing a lease? Aside from mice. | | 
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