Suggested initial questions for a Home OWNER to ask a Home SEEKER
The following questions might seem confronting at first, but they may help you think through the logistics of homesharing in more detail, and to find out who you would be comfortable sharing a home with.
- Can you please provide the contact details of two referees – character reference, previous landlord/ employer?
- Would you be prepared to be police vetted?
- Would you be happy to provide a credit check?
- Do you smoke?
- Do you have pets? (if yes, then please provide more information)
- Tell me something about the relationships you have and how they might impact at home? (including partners, adult children, friends who might visit etc).
- If you are a full-time parent, how does this work? (childcare arrangements, co-parenting, access rights)
- Are you currently employed? Any other comments about your work life?
- How would you describe your daily routine?
- What are your hobbies and interests? Which of these do you do at home?
- How would you describe your views on cooking & your eating habits? (such as, do you like cooking or not, are you vegetarian or vegan, do you want to share the cooking or eat separately)?
- Do you have any allergies or food intolerances?
- How often do you drink alcohol at home?
- How would you describe your views on meeting new people?
- How do you approach differences of opinion and even conflict?
- How would you describe your sense of humour?
- What is your usual bedtime?
- Are you in a romantic relationship?
- What is your current living situation?
- Do you have any religious or spiritual practices?
- What organisations or groups do you belong to?
- What is your preferred Home Sharer age?
- Tell me about your cleaning habits.
- What do you care about?
- Any last comments?
More to Discuss – Once They’ve Visited the House
- Finances- rent, how often & how it’s paid. Could it be reduced for certain jobs?
- Bills / utilities (power, WIFI, gas)- how will these be split &/or paid?
- Groceries
- Shared spaces (areas everyone can use and personal spaces)
- Rules for Pets
- Chores / household jobs – how will they be divided?
- Meals – cooking arrangements
- Visitors / guests
- Internet usage
- Principles for communication
- Trial period and termination
- Your Sharing Agreement
Click here to get a PDF of these Questions that you can print out.