Living in a Shared House: How to Build Great Relationships with Housemates
Sharing a house with strangers (or even friends) can feel like an episode of Big Brother—lots of personalities, quirks, and the occasional clash over who left the milk out. But with a little effort and the right mindset, you can create a harmonious, even fun, living environment. Here’s how to turn your housemates into allies rather than awkward hallway acquaintances.
1. Start with a Smile (and Maybe Snacks)
First impressions matter. When you move in, take a moment to introduce yourself. A smile goes a long way—and if you’re feeling extra generous, share a snack or drink. Breaking the ice early makes it easier to connect later.
2. Respect the Unwritten Rules
Every house has its own vibe. Some are social hubs; others are all about peace and quiet. Pay attention to the house dynamic and adapt. Is it cool to blast music at 10 p.m., or is it more of a headphones-after-dinner situation? Respect the flow, and you’ll fit right in.
3. Communicate Like a Pro
Passive-aggressive sticky notes? Let’s not. If something’s bugging you—like unwashed dishes or late-night karaoke—bring it up politely in person or in the house group chat. Clear, friendly communication avoids unnecessary drama.
4. Share the Workload (and the Wi-Fi Password)
Even in the friendliest houses, everyone needs their downtime. Knock before entering someone’s room, keep shared spaces clutter-free, and don’t assume your housemate wants to binge-watch your favorite show every night (even if it’s awesome).
5. Respect Personal Space
Clutter is the enemy of a cozy room. Use clever storage solutions like under-bed boxes, hanging organizers, or stylish baskets to keep your space neat and tidy. A clear room = a clear mind. Science probably agrees.
6. Plan Some Fun (But Keep It Chill)
You don’t have to be BFFs, but a little socializing never hurts. Suggest a house movie night, order a pizza together, or celebrate small wins like “We survived Monday.” These little moments help build camaraderie.
7. Be the Housemate You’d Want to Live With
Think about what makes a good housemate—being considerate, friendly, and reliable—and strive to be that person. Forgot to take the bins out? Apologize and make up for it next time. People appreciate effort.
8. Handle Conflicts Like a Grown-Up
Living with others isn’t always smooth sailing, and that’s okay. If disagreements happen, address them calmly and respectfully. A quick chat can usually resolve things faster than you’d think.
Making Shared Living Work for Everyone
Living in a shared house doesn’t have to be a challenge. With a bit of thoughtfulness and a positive attitude, you can create a home where everyone feels comfortable. At Athem Homes, we take care of the big stuff—like stylish rooms, all-inclusive rent, and maintenance—so you can focus on building great relationships with your housemates.
Ready to find your next home? Contact us today and start your shared living adventure the right way!
