Homesharing Harmony: Move-In Day

Great relationships are built on solid foundations. This is especially true when it comes to homesharing. Do you want a great housemate? Start by being a great housemate!

There is no better time to make your intentions known than on move-in day. If you are welcoming someone into your home, take a moment to consider the combination of uncertainty and excitement that person is likely feeling. Creating a space that invites warmth and connection will go a long way toward ensuring a smooth transition. Here are some tips for making the most of move-in day.

Tips for Move-In Day with Your New Housemate

1. Be there! Obviously, you should be home on your housemate’s move-in day. Beyond that, there are lots of creative ways to make this day easier for both of you. For example, clean your home’s common areas and clear away anything that could impede moving items, big or small.
   
   
2. Share a meal. A particularly generous offer is to cook dinner for your new housemate on their first night with you. At the very least, consider having some cold drinks handy as a token of friendship. Food has a distinct way of bringing people together, and there’s no doubt your housemate will be hungry after a long day of moving. (Tip: Don’t forget to ask about dietary restrictions.)
   
   
3. Show you care. If you’re not much of a cook, flowers are always a nice touch. You can also prepare your new housemate a list of the things they need to know—like where to find clean towels, the internet network and password, laundry machine details, and how to regulate the temperature of their new space. If your housemate is new to town, you might leave maps of the local area, tips about great grocery stores or restaurants, and post office and library details. You could even take them for a walk around the neighborhood.

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The bottom line is that even the smallest gesture can have a lasting effect. That was definitely the case for Melissa, 47, a Silvernester in Florida:

“I moved into my new home to find that my housemate had left flowers and a sweet welcome letter in my room,” she recalls. “It really helped me settle in and feel like I already had supportive friends. I was blown away by his thoughtfulness!”

One last thought: whatever you do to welcome your new housemate, be giving. Striking a generous tone is a great way to foster a budding friendship. Kindness is contagious—and makes you a great housemate!