Even the best of friendships suffer under stressful situations; and moving and co-habitation are among the most stressful situations we can face. As many people go through the process of moving to an apartment, they find that having a roommate eases their financial burden and provides comfort.
Often, when apartment moving, people select their closest friends to be their roommates. Most people assume friends and roommates are interchangeable roles. But often, friendship actually burdens the living arrangement with unique challenges. Faced with the dynamics of an established relationship, many friends living as roommates find it difficult to break out of their comfort zone and confront situations that may be causing them stress.
Moving to an apartment with a close friend can be a great experience – a chance to share a special time in your life with someone with whom you already share a special relationship. But keep in mind that if you don’t draw specific boundaries and have the necessary – albeit uncomfortable – conversations from the start, you may be faced with far more awkward situations down the road.
It is important to have an honest, face-to-face conversation with your roommate before moving to an apartment. Each of you should discuss what your expectations are from each other in this new living arrangement; as well as how each of you envisions the division of finances and apartment upkeep responsibilities.
Just because you are close friends does not necessarily mean that you know each other’s style of living. Discuss those things that are important to each of you and what will make your living arrangement comfortable and enjoyable. The more detailed you are in this preliminary discussions, the better your chances of a successful – and memorable – living arrangement.
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