Advertise the room online for free. You can also search on line which allows you to see their profile before you contact them. Be clear and outline what will be included in the board payment, the type of person you are looking for and what you expect from the potential lodger. Include good quality photos of the room and other areas they will have access to – kitchen, lounge, patio, etc. Tell them a little about you, the area and close amenities.
Once contact is made it is best to meet up with them in a public place with a friend in tow for a second opinion. Have a list of questions ready. (See article “Questions to ask”) Make sure you check any references, identification, expiry dates on licenses etc. Take down any reference contact numbers to call them after the meeting. Let them know you will be meeting up with others then making a short list of the ones who can come and have a look at the room. YOU CAN NOT BE TOO CAREFUL!
Get in touch with the tenancies union in your state about any lodgers agreements. Worth their weight in gold! Decent people will have no hesitation in signing an agreement.
Decorate the room in neutral tones and just include the basics. No lace, frills or Mickey Mouse doona covers here. :0) They will have their own bits and pieces so just offer them things if they need them.
Make any house rules and boundaries right from the start. A Monthly or Fortnightly direct debit from them including everything is the easiest way to go. Take a bond to the value of 4 weeks board and lodge it with the Tenancy Union in your state.
Check with your insurance company and bank as taking in a lodger may change a few things. Remember to be yourself, enjoy the company, don’t spoil them too much and respect their privacy. Expect the same from them.
