Figuring out when the right time is in a relationship to begin sharing rent is a tougher call than many people realize. Find out what the most important things are to consider before making a new message for your voice mail.

People consider sharing a roof for many different reasons these days: to be closer, because he asked you to, to see more of each other, because she asked you to, to show your commitment to the relationship, to save money on rent. Some reasons are more superficial than others, but be warned, there are more serious things to consider when thinking about cohabitating than whether or not he will leave the seat up and whether she will use your razor to shave her legs.

The Faux-Pas
The values that are depicted through popular culture, those of self-expression and personal freedom in relationships, are not those held by many people. Unless you and your partner live in a romantic comedy or in a New York City TV show, there are probably traditions and expectations held by each of your families that you will have to deal with when deciding to move in together.

Depending on both of your cultural and religious backgrounds, moving in together may be quite an offense towards one or both of your families. Sometimes it is time for you to break away from family traditions and assert your independent ability to choose for yourself, but make sure before you do that you intended to do so. Offending your family is only worth it if you are doing it intentionally. Investigate your partner’s family and the potential cultural tensions you may encounter by moving in together. The presence of tension is not a deal breaker in this department, but it is important for both of you to be aware of it before you have done something that cannot be taken back.