Find a Flatmate in a New Country in 2023

by iROOMit Team
19 January 2023
4 min read

Use online resources: There are many websites and apps that can help you find a flatmate in a new country. Some popular options include iROOMit and more. These platforms allow you to search for potential flatmates based on location, budget, and lifestyle preferences.

Join expat groups: Joining expat groups on social media or in person can be a great way to meet people who are in the same situation as you. You can ask for recommendations or post a message looking for a flatmate.

Look for accommodation with a flatmate matching service: Some accommodation providers, such as student housing, offer flatmate matching services. This can be a convenient way to find a compatible flatmate without having to do the legwork yourself.

Network: Let your friends, family, and colleagues know that you're looking for a flatmate. They may know someone who is also looking for a place to live or may be able to provide valuable information about the local housing market.

Be open-minded: Finding a compatible flatmate can take time, so don't rush into making a decision. Be open-minded about potential flatmates and be willing to consider different living arrangements. Remember that having a flatmate is a temporary situation and you can always find a new one if things don't work out.

Be Clear on Your Expectations: Before you start looking for a flatmate, it's important to have a clear understanding of your own expectations. Think about what you're looking for in a flatmate, such as their age, lifestyle, and habits. This will help you narrow down your search and find someone who is a good match for you.

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Communicate openly and honestly: Once you find a potential flatmate, it's important to communicate openly and honestly with them. Talk about your expectations, schedule, and habits so that you can ensure that you're compatible. It's also important to set boundaries and establish a clear understanding of how you'll handle things like bills, cleaning, and guests.

Consider a short-term rental or sublet: If you're not sure about committing to a long-term lease or don't want to go through the hassle of finding a permanent flatmate, consider a short-term rental or sublet. This will give you the flexibility to find a more permanent living situation in the future.

Check the references: Before finalizing a flatmate agreement, it's important to check the references of potential flatmates. Ask them for contact information of previous flatmates or landlords, and check their credit score. This will give you a better idea of what to expect.

Be Prepared to Compromise: Living with a flatmate can be challenging, especially in a new country. It's important to be prepared to compromise and make adjustments to your own habits and schedule. Remember that you're both working towards the goal of finding a comfortable living arrangement, so be open to feedback and suggestions.

Consider Cultural Differences: When finding a flatmate in a new country, it's important to consider cultural differences. Different cultures may have different expectations when it comes to things like cleanliness, privacy, and socializing. Be aware of these differences and try to find a flatmate who is respectful and understanding of your cultural background.

Safety First: When looking for a flatmate in a new country, it's important to prioritize safety. Make sure to research the area where you're looking for accommodation and avoid any neighborhoods that are known for crime or violence. When meeting potential flatmates, make sure to do it in a public place, and trust your instincts.

Be Flexible with your Budget: Finding a suitable flatmate in a new country can be challenging, and you may need to be flexible with your budget. Be open to different types of accommodation and consider sharing a place with more than one flatmate to split the cost.

Look for people with similar interests: Finding a flatmate with similar interests can make the living situation more enjoyable. You can look for flatmates who share your hobbies and interests, such as sports, music, or travel.

Look for flatmates with a similar schedule: If you have a specific schedule, such as working night shifts or studying at a specific time, it's important to find a flatmate with a similar schedule. This will help avoid conflicts and make the living situation more comfortable.

In conclusion, finding a flatmate in a new country can be a challenging task, but with a little effort and patience, it is possible to find a compatible and suitable person to share your living space with. Utilizing online resources, joining expat groups, looking for accommodation with a flatmate matching service, networking, being open-minded, being clear on your expectations, communicating openly and honestly, considering a short-term rental or sublet, checking references, being prepared to compromise, considering cultural differences, prioritizing safety, being flexible with your budget, looking for people with similar interests, and finding flatmates with a similar schedule are all effective ways to increase your chances of finding a suitable flatmate. Remember that finding a good flatmate is a process and it may take time and effort, but it's worth it in the end to have a comfortable living situation.