Is it Worth Renting Out Your Extra Room?
I grew up in a large family, where holidays meant sharing cramped spaces, with all the kids in a big dormitory and seldom showering. Later, I lived in on-campus housing and small apartments, often with two to seven roommates. Whenever I’ve lived alone, I’ve hosted couchsurfers or had frequent visitors.
For me, offering an extra room to a roommate or renting it to travelers isn’t too much of a sacrifice. I can adapt to different schedules easily, like showering at night if someone else needs the bathroom in the morning. However, others might find this unbearable.
Pros of Renting Your Extra Room:
– You earn rental income.
– A long-term roommate can help look after your pet or water your plants when you’re away.
– Utility bills are shared.
– Renting short-term introduces you to travelers from around the world.
Cons of Renting Your Extra Room:
– You lose the option to use the room for storage or as a guestroom.
– Sharing common spaces like the bathroom and kitchen.
– Potential conflicts with roommates.
– Travelers might leave the room dirty if rented short-term.
– Reduced privacy in your home.
For me, the benefits (especially the extra income) outweigh the drawbacks. It might not be the same for everyone. You could try listing your room on Airbnb or similar sites for short-term rentals. If it doesn’t work out, you can always unsubscribe. If it does, continue renting short-term or find a long-term roommate.
Sometimes I think about living without roommates, but having them allows me to afford a nicer apartment than I could on my own. Going back to a tiny 210 square foot apartment? No thanks!
