Setting up a shared flat sounds pretty relaxed at first: a few rooms, a few people, a common goal – affordable living. But: Moving in together is a very special thing before living together. And at the latest when the first argument really starts, it becomes clear: It would have helped to discuss a few things beforehand.

Here are five things that you should definitely clarify before you start a new WG start-up.

1. Clarify: What kind of shared flat do you want anyway?

Purpose-built flat, friendship flat, creative commune or simply a place to take a deep breath?
Before you decide on an apartment together, you should have a common picture of how you want to live.

Ask yourself:

• How much fellowship should there be (evenings together, cooking, etc.)?
• How many do we want to be?
• How much retreat does everyone need?
• How do you deal with guests, volume, party?
• How many rooms do we need for this?

Clarity here prevents misunderstandings later. And makes sure that everyone has similar expectations.

2. Finances: Who pays what – and how?

Money issues are not mood killers – if they are clarified openly.
Speak in advance:

• What is the maximum rent for everyone?
• How are utilities, internet, household stuff shared?
• Do you want a joint shared apartment account or a cash register?
• Is there a common budget for cleaning supplies, basics or food?

Also important: What happens if someone has less money in the short term? Finding viable solutions together before it burns is worth its weight in gold.

3. Contract Witness and Responsibility

Once unsexy, but important: How do you regulate the rental agreement?

• Who is officially in it?
• What happens if someone wants to move out?
• How much notice do you want to agree on among yourselves?
• And what about deposits, furniture, new tenants?

Even if you get along well – clarity protects against stress. Especially when it comes to financial or legal issues.

Conclusion:

Founding a shared flat means: shaping together. And the best way to do that is to ask yourself a few honest questions beforehand – instead of having arguments later about things you never really discussed and having to look for an apartment again.

If you take time to compare resources, expectations, desires and limits, a space is created in which you can not only live, but live. And that really becomes a home.