Company, savings, space: 5 reasons why you should try a flatshare.
Ever thought about flatsharing instead of living alone? Living with a flatmate certainly comes with plenty of perks. It often makes life more fun, helps you save money, and is usually a more eco-friendly choice too. Below, we’ve rounded up the best things about flatsharing, along with top tips for handling the tenancy agreement. Who knows, you might just get inspired to give it a try!
The perks of flatsharing: 5 great reasons to move in with a flatmate
1. Splitting the costs saves your wallet
Flatsharing means that many living costs, like rent, electricity, and internet, are split between several people, which can make a big difference financially. That alone makes it an attractive option, especially if you’re studying or just starting out in your career.
2. Shared space means more space
Flatsharing often makes it possible to get a bigger place, as one- and two-bedroom flats tend to offer better value than renting separate studios. Sharing a living room and kitchen also gives you more space to relax and enjoy your home.
3. Everyday companionship brings comfort
Sharing everyday life with your flatmate can add comfort, joy, and convenience to your routine. Especially when moving to a new town, a flatmate might also become a friend to explore the city with and spend your free time together. You can also share everyday tasks from taking turns cooking to walking a pet, as well as host fun get-togethers in the apartment.
4. Flatsharing teaches you important skills
Flatsharing is a great way to build useful everyday interaction and negotiation skills. When you live with others, you learn how to compromise, be considerate, and take care of shared spaces. Those skills are guaranteed to come in handy in all areas of life.
5. A flatshare is a more ecological choice
Flatsharing usually means less wasted space, since the home is used more efficiently. That's why it's often a more environmentally friendly option, too. It can also help cut down on unnecessary consumption, as you can share everyday items like a coffee maker or vacuum cleaner. Chances are, you won’t need as many dishes either.
What kind of rental agreement works best for a flatshare?
If you're moving in with one or more friends, we recommend listing all tenants as primary tenants on the rental agreement. That way, the responsibility for paying rent and looking after the home is shared equally.
It's also possible to rent an apartment in just one person's name and then sublet to the others. Subletting is allowed for up to half of the apartment, and the landlord must always be informed, as things like water fees will be affected.
Before choosing to sublet, it's important to know that the primary tenant is responsible for paying the full rent to the landlord and for any issues caused by the subtenants. This includes things like damage to the apartment, disturbances, or unpaid rent. That's why signing the rental agreement together is usually the simpler and more stress-free option.
At Joo Kodit, you’ll find plenty of rental homes that are perfect for flatsharing. Browse our rental apartments here.
