Fairly splitting rent with a couple

I think once you're at the point that you're trying to charge them more because you might get coronavirus and also you're shy is the point where you need to take a step back. I mean, living with someone who forbids you from being in common space when they're in it and also suspects you're a plague rat isn't exactly a picnic.

My point is, roommates are always inconvenient. You are an inconvenience to them as much as they are to you. The best thing you guys can do is get it to approximately fair, then all be generous from there. Don't fall into the trap of thinking you can split it perfectly. You can't. That way lies madness - I had a roommate who acted that way and it hasn't worked well for him. For example, he wanted my husband to keep track of when he had insomnia because he'd have a light on and roommate didn't think he should have to pay for a light he didn't use. That mindset lead to many instances that lead to the complete destruction of our friendship, and he can't hold onto a roommate to save his life.

It's FAR more important to maintain good will then to get a percent or two off your rent. Focus on being reasonable, all of you act in good faith. Obviously if they take advantage that's different, but going in assuming they will is just poisonous.

/r/personalfinance Thread Parent