[splitimage]

I'm currently living in a long term shelter (transitional housing) for women with mental health and addictions issues. It's quite a nice place really, all things considered, but there's a time limit. I have to be out by April 1 2014, although realistically I'd like to be out sooner.

Today I was talking with another resident, who I get along quite well with, about housing, and I said I was probably going to look for a room to rent in an apartment or house with a roommate. She suggested that we look for a two bedroom together and share a place.

This could be really good. She's quiet, but friendly, and mostly keeps to herself. She's also in recovery so she doesn't drink. She wants to live in the same general areas that I want to live in. She wants to get a cat, and I adore cats. She doesn't have any furniture, and I have an apartment's worth of furniture in storage that I'd love to get out of storage.

I can't afford a one bedroom on my own, but I can afford half a two bedroom.

I told her I want the weekend to think about it, but I think it could be a really good solution.

splitimage

[Travelinglady]

Sounds like it might be a good deal, splitimage! I hope it does work out for you two.

[SilverNeurotic]

I hope it works out for you guys. Just make sure you get to know her well and have that financial stuff figured out prior. It'll save much headache later on.

[SingDanceRunLife]

I hope it works out for the best!

[healingme4me]

Hope all works out for you!

[crazyincanada]

Write up a roommate agreement, and go for it!

[January]

It sounds really great. Just make sure both names are on the lease and that things are written out carefully to protect yourself.

Hugs,

Jan

[Citrine]

Im a believer in meant to be, sounds like a great set up. Go for it. Sounds perfect. Agreements for joint responsibilty to protect either of you are important but thats just normal and no bother. Hope it goes well, post again.

[SadFatCat]

keep your options open. find out more about her.

[Sabrina]

It sounds like an ideal solution. I would suggest that your financial arrangements are put out in writing though. And that you both sign the lease agreement. Good luck.

[Ardose]

I shared a person's house when I first started into the work world because I found it much better than a really awful apartment. My house mate and I had some different likes and habits. But, we were able to accept those differences and became good friends for a long time. Before you move in together, I suggest you and this person go somewhere you can talk about things without too much disturbance. You should learn about her habits and she should learn about yours. For instance, if she is a night person and you are not, that could lead to problems. Get to know each other and agree to some boundaries. Also inventory your possessions and even mark them so there will be no confusion should you or her ever leave. If you and her are renting an apartment, make sure you are both on the rental agreement and that you can get out of it with reasonable notice. I would avoid getting into any kind of long term lease. Especially until you are sure you are both compatible. Good luck, it was a great experience for me.

[splitimage]

Thanks everyone.

I have an update. As of today we conditionally have a place for Dec. 1. Because we both have such bad credit histories, the leasing company wanted a guarantor. Fortunately one of my friends who has a really good job agreed to act, and we're just in the process of getting his information to the leasing company. Once they approve him, which I suspect they will, we'll all sign the lease.

Yes both are names will be on the lease, and we have to sign a one year lease, standard for ON.

My roommate and I have already had several frank discussions on everything from cleaning to what we'll do if either of us relapses or has a flare up of our respective mental illness.

The apartment is quite nice. It's large with a good sized living and dining area and lots of closet space. It also has a balcony.

The building is a 7 min walk to a bus stop whose bus runs straight to a major subway stop so it's good from a transit perspective.

The building allows pets, so Laura can get the 2 cats she wants, and I'll get to enjoy the cats without the hassle of ownership.

I'm really quite excited and can't wait to be out of St. Clare's.

splitimage