Questions To Ask Before Moving In Together

I wrote an article last month called Are You Ready To Move In Together? that addressed the serious issues that should probably be resolved before signing a lease together.  As a follow-up I would like to propose a new set of questions to answer before moving in together that are not related to serious relationship issues, but instead address the issues related to sharing space.  Before you move in together it might be helpful to discover your level of compatibility as roommates.  Your relationship could be perfect, but if you drive each other crazy just because you live under the same roof, then the situation could plunge into dark territory rather quickly.

Here are some simple questions to ask each other to determine your level of compatibility related to sharing space:

• Do you want a TV in the bedroom?
• Do you ever want to get a pet?
• Do you have a strong feeling about interior design decisions?
• Where do you like to skimp and splurge on furniture and household financial decisions?
• Do you like to paint interior walls or hang art on the walls?
• What purchases do you think we should split?
• Will you be having friends/family stay with us?
• Do you do your own laundry and how often?
• What should we do if there is an issue with the apartment?
• What TV programs do you need to watch?
• Do you save everything or do you feel comfortable throwing things away (pack rat vs. spring cleaning)?
• What is your early morning routine? (coffee, exercise, shower, etc.)
• What is your late night routine? (reading, quiet time, bath, etc.)
• How clean do you like to keep the apartment?
• How will we split household chores? (cleaning, garbage, dishes, etc.)
• Do you use any fragrances (perfume, cologne, candles, air freshener)?
• Do you allow people to wear shoes indoors?

Image: sxc.hu