What Is A Share House?

In today's dynamic housing market, especially in Australia, share houses have become an increasingly popular option for many renters. Whether you're a student, a young professional, or someone looking for a cost-effective and social living arrangement, a share house can offer numerous benefits. In this blog post, we'll explore what a share house is, the advantages and challenges of living in one, and provide tips on how to find and thrive in a share house environment.

What is a Share House?#

A share house, also known as a house share, is a residential arrangement where multiple individuals or groups live together in one house, sharing common areas such as the kitchen, living room, and sometimes bathrooms. Each person typically has their own private bedroom. Share houses are particularly popular among students, young professionals, and people who are new to a city and looking for an affordable and social living option.

Common reasons for choosing a share house include reducing living costs, meeting new people, and experiencing a sense of community.

What is a Share House Called in Other Countries?#

• United Kingdom: Flat share
• Germany: Wohngemeinschaft (WG)
• France: Colocation
• United States: Co-living (related but different options include Fraternity and Sorority Houses)
• Japan: Share houses
• India: Shared living solutions
• South Korea: Goshiwon and Co-living spaces
• New Zealand: Flatting

Benefits of Living in a Share House#

• Cost-sharing and Affordability: One of the primary benefits of living in a share house is the cost-sharing aspect. Rent and utility bills are divided among the housemates, making it a more affordable option compared to living alone. This can be especially advantageous in cities where the cost of living is high.
• Social Benefits and Community Living: Living in a share house provides a built-in social network. Housemates often become friends, offering companionship and support. This sense of community can be particularly valuable for those new to a city or country.
• Flexibility and Convenience: Share houses often offer more flexible lease terms compared to traditional rentals. This can be ideal for individuals who need short-term accommodation or those who are unsure about their long-term plans.

Challenges of Living in a Share House#

• Privacy Concerns: While sharing a house has its benefits, it can also come with privacy concerns. Living with others means you may have less personal space and more noise, which can be challenging for some.
• Potential Conflicts with Housemates: Different lifestyles and habits can sometimes lead to conflicts. It's important to establish clear communication and set house rules to manage these differences effectively.
• Management of Shared Responsibilities: Sharing a house also means sharing responsibilities, such as cleaning common areas and managing shared expenses. Coordination and cooperation are key to ensuring a harmonious living environment.

How to Find a Share House#

• Online Platforms and Resources: There are numerous online platforms where you can find share houses, such as Sharehouse, Flatmates and Gumtree. These platforms allow you to search for available rooms and connect with potential housemates.
• Word of Mouth and Community Boards: Sometimes, the best way to find a share house is through word of mouth. Ask friends, colleagues, or fellow students if they know of any available rooms. Community boards at universities or local cafes can also be good resources.
• Facebook Groups: Facebook Groups dedicated to housing and rentals in your area can be a great way to find available share houses and connect with potential housemates. Be cautious of rental scams on platforms like Facebook.

Where can I find a share house in Major Cities like Melbourne, Sydney, and Brisbane?#

Sharehouse is a great platform to find share houses in any major cities like Melbourne, Sydney, and Brisbane. You can filter your search based on location, budget, and preferences to find the perfect share house for you. Alternatively you can also check out other platforms like Facebook Groups or Gumtree.

What is the expected etiquette in a share house?#

• Communicating Effectively with Housemates: Open and honest communication is crucial in a share house. Regular house meetings can help address any issues and ensure everyone is on the same page.
• Handling Shared Expenses: Setting up a system for managing shared expenses, such as utilities and groceries, can prevent misunderstandings. Apps like Splitwise can help track shared costs.
• Maintaining Cleanliness and Shared Spaces: Establishing a cleaning rota or schedule can help ensure that shared spaces remain clean and tidy. It's important that all housemates contribute to the upkeep of the house.

What are the Costs Associated with Living in a Share House?#

Living in a share house can be a cost-effective way to manage your living expenses. Here, we'll break down the typical costs associated with living in a share house and provide a table calculating living expenses split between three people.

Typical Costs#

• Rent: The primary cost, usually split equally among housemates.
• Utilities: Includes electricity, water, gas, and internet. These are also divided among the housemates.
• Groceries: Shared food and household supplies.
• Cleaning Supplies: Items like cleaning agents, paper towels, and other household necessities.
• Miscellaneous: Other shared expenses such as streaming services or household repairs.

Example Cost Calculation#

Let's assume the following monthly costs for a share house:

• Rent: $3,000
• Electricity: $150
• Water: $60
• Gas: $50
• Internet: $90
• Groceries: $600
• Cleaning Supplies: $30
• Miscellaneous: $60

The total monthly cost is $4,040. When split between three people, the costs would be as follows:

What are the Legal and Financial Considerations of Living in a Share House?#

• Lease Agreements: Ensure a written tenancy agreement signed by all housemates and the landlord. In some circumstances you may also need a Flatmate Agreement.
• Tenant Rights and Responsibilities: Protected under the Residential Tenancies Act; includes paying rent on time and maintaining the property.
• Rent and Deposits: Rent is split equally; security deposit (bond) should be documented and lodged with the relevant authority.
• Utilities and Shared Expenses: Divide and pay bills on time.
• Insurance: Consider renters insurance for personal belongings and liability.
• Conflict Resolution: Use mediation services for disputes; keep records of all communications and payments.

Are there share houses in other countries?#

Share houses are not unique to Australia. Similar housing options exist worldwide, each with their own cultural nuances.

United States 🇺🇸#

• Co-living: The concept of co-living has gained popularity, offering fully furnished living spaces with shared amenities.
• Fraternity and Sorority Houses: These are related but different from share houses, typically associated with university life and specific to Greek life organizations. They often have a more structured and communal living environment.

Germany 🇩🇪#

• WG (Wohngemeinschaft) Culture: WG living is very common, especially in larger cities. These arrangements often involve a group of people sharing an apartment or house, with a focus on communal living and shared responsibilities.

India 🇮🇳#

• Urbanization and Shared Living Solutions: With rapid urbanization, shared living solutions have become popular, especially in metropolitan areas. These arrangements provide affordable and convenient living options for young professionals and students.

South Korea 🇰🇷#

• Goshiwon and Co-living Spaces: Goshiwons are small, affordable living spaces typically used by students and young professionals. Co-living spaces are also becoming popular, offering more modern and communal living arrangements.

Alternatives to Share Houses in Australia#

While share houses offer numerous benefits, they may not be the ideal choice for everyone. Here are some alternatives to consider:

• Student Villages and Student Accommodation: Purpose-built housing for students, often located near universities and colleges. These facilities usually offer a range of amenities, including study areas, recreational facilities, and social events.

• Boarding/Rooming Houses: Residential buildings that offer private rooms with shared common areas, such as kitchens and bathrooms. Boarding houses can be a cost-effective and flexible option for short-term stays.

• Private Subletting: Renting a room or property from someone who already has a lease agreement with a landlord. Subletting can be a good option for those looking for short-term accommodation or flexible living arrangements.

• Private Rentals: Renting an entire apartment or house on your own or with friends/family. This option provides more privacy and control over your living environment but typically comes at a higher cost.

• Short-term Accommodation: Options like serviced apartments, Airbnb, and hostels are great for those needing temporary housing. These can be particularly useful for short stays, relocations, or travel.

• Co-living Spaces: Modern shared living arrangements that provide fully furnished living spaces with shared amenities and often include community events and activities. Co-living spaces are designed to foster a sense of community and convenience.

Each of these alternatives has its own set of advantages and disadvantages, making it important to choose the one that best suits your needs and lifestyle.

Conclusion#

Living in a share house can be a rewarding experience, offering affordability, social benefits, and flexibility. While there are challenges to navigate, effective communication and cooperation can help create a positive living environment. Whether you're considering a share house in Australia or exploring similar options abroad, the key is to find a living arrangement that suits your needs and lifestyle. Happy house hunting!