Are flatmates a good idea? Weigh the pros of having a flatmate. Many renters struggle with those questions while searching for a flat. Living alone has its perks, but so does living with flatmates. If you’re one of the many trying to determine whether you should share a flat or house, or live alone, here’s what you need to know.

Living alone vs. with flatmates: Breaking down the pros

Living with friends or acquaintances can be a wonderful experience, but so can having the privacy that comes with living alone. The decision ultimately depends on what matters most to you at the time you’re looking for a new flat. Understanding some of the pros of each situation can help you determine what works best for your lifestyle.

The benefits to having flatmates

• Added convenience Flatmates can bring added convenience to your living situation. For example, while you’re away on vacation, your flatmate can let you know if you get important mail or water your plants.

• Help with chores You can split up the chores with your flatmates to keep your home in tip-top shape with less individual work or time spent. For instance, you can share grocery shopping duties, and rotate or split cleaning responsibilities. Having flatmates can lighten the load for everyone.

• Companionship If you enjoy having someone else around, one or more flatmates means you’ll always have someone to turn to or spend time with. Even if you’re not super close, the presence of others in your home can make you feel less lonely.

• Saving money Saving money is one of the biggest reasons renters choose to move in with flatmates. Having flatmates means you split the total cost of rent, and you can live in a house or flat, or in an area, you might not have the means to pay for on your own. You can also split bills with flatmates like utilities and other important flat expenses.

Sharing and Splitting bills with flatmates offers one of the biggest advantages of having flatmates — as long as everyone does their part!