HOUSE SHARING AND OTHER SURVIVAL TIPS

 Let's face it, when you are in a share house situation, there are a number of issues that can and do arise. The real question is how do you go about dealing with problems or evading them in the first place?

GIVE & TAKE

I hear you say "Huh?" You need to learn when to give time or take action.

* Not everyone will wash up straight after cooking or eating - GIVE time for a sharemate to do this (this might mean overnight!)                                                                       - TAKE action if it's not completed the following day

                                                                  - DON'T and I stress this DON'T clean up after them

* Other people sleeping over                                            - GIVE in and accept that this will happen                                                                                                                          - TAKE the initive to speak calmly that you don't appreciate the visitor                                                                 # Using all the hot water                                                                                                                           # Leaving a mess when cooking, bathing, doing their laundry                                                                               # Taking over the bathroom so no one who pays rent can use it

                                                                 - DON'T accept this behavior, write email/letter to officially complain                                                                      to the landlord or realestate with time, date and offences.

* Phone bills                                                                   - GIVE no room for error install a incoming phone line only                                                                                                      - TAKE a phone card and always use it

                                                                                     - DON'T use a landline - mobile cap plan is best

* Cleaning products, toilet paper & other stuff                    - GIVE everyone an option to contribute to a kitty and share the cost                                                                                        - TAKE the initive and collect the money when you run low

                                                                                     - DON'T ever just buy it yourself and expect everyone to pay 

* Establish some rules                                                    - GIVE everyone a voice and discuss as a group                                                                                                                    - TAKE notes and get everyone to sign the minutes

                                                                                     - DON'T expect a happily ever after - deal with issues as needed

Other Tips are:-

* Cleaning                                                                      - Organise a roster system to share the duties

* Bills                                                                            - These should be shared evenly between all the tenants

* Problems                                                                    - Sit down with the entire household and problem solve as a group

                                                                                    - DON'T talk in little groups or one person = makes things worse!

* Chose the right people in the first place                          - This is important - Ask lots of questions and be sure you can live 

                                                                                       with the person. See if you can talk to previous share mates.

                                                                                     - DON'T choose for the sake of convenience

* Treat others like you would want them to treat you!

Living in a share house situation is not only easier on the pocket financially, but it can be a wonderful way to meet new people, make new friends, create wonderful memories and above all else experience different cultures.

It all comes down to preparation, empathy, patience and a little experience.