by Ann E. Smith

Created on: May 27, 2009

You have all heard them and may have some of your own - nightmare roommate stories! It's true that some roommates can be extremely difficult, leading to negative experiences. Yet, some are a pure pleasure.

If you are thinking about getting a roommate, you may want to carefully consider the good and bad aspects of having someone sharing your living space. While the degree to which these things will vary according to the individuals involved, at least this list will help you run through some of the possibilities.

* Positive aspects of having a roommate

The most obvious reason to have a roommate is that it's cheaper than living alone! You will split the rent as well as the various utilities such as the electric and cable bills. You can save a lot of money by living with someone.

And, sometimes you can live somewhere you would not normally be able to afford because it's cheaper. The rent for a one-bedroom in any apartment complex is usually much higher when compared to half the rent for a two-bedroom in the same complex.

Another positive reason to have a roommate is you may be less lonely. You will have someone to watch your favorite television shows with, and you will not have to eat dinner alone or cook for one. Of course, these factors apply only if the two of you genuinely like each other and want to hang out together.

A roommate can potentially help you with your pets when you go out of town. And if you are on business travel a lot, then it's good to have a roommate so you are not leaving a vacant home often. You may be less likely to be robbed that way, as someone will still be there.

* Negative aspects of having a roommate

Looking at the flip side, there can be negative aspects of having a roommate, especially if it is someone with whom you are not compatible. First of all, when you have a roommate, you are going to have to make a lot of compromises. Even with those being made, it can be extremely hard to get along with another person.

You need to really think about lifestyle choices prior to committing to live with any person. Otherwise you may be facing things you do not want to deal with such as overnight company on a regular basis, drunken episodes, loud music in the middle of the night and countless other things.

Now, if both you and your roommate like to party, that may not be an issue. But if you are buckling down and focusing on your career and being a responsible adult, a wild roommate could make your life a living hell.

Another negative

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