Moving in with your partner is a big step. According to research, approximately 9.2% of Millennial couples are living together. Sure, there are several benefits to it, including companionship and dual incomes. However, as exciting as this time can be, without proper planning, it could end in heartbreak and financial difficulty. On the other hand, if you manage to plan everything well, and take a few things into consideration, moving in with your partner can be one of the best things you ever do. So, to make things a bit easier, here’s a checklist of what to discuss before moving in together.
Learn Each Other’s Expectations
More often than not, couples move in together thinking that they fully understand what their partner wants and expects from the situation. However, down the line, it becomes apparent that there are several things they didn’t consider. This could lead to several issues down the line, so before you sign a lease together, sit down and talk about what you’re both hoping to get out of the scenario. Not only will this give you insight into your partner’s mind, it will also help you both feel comfortable expressing your feelings to one another.
Talk About Why You’re Moving In Together
Financial motivation is a common reason for couples moving in together, and there’s absolutely nothing wrong with that. However, just because something makes sense from a monetary perspective doesn’t mean it’s the right decision for your relationship. Even though breaking up with someone you’re not legally married to is slightly less complicated, it can still be gut-wrenching and financially tough, so don’t make the decision to move in together lightly. Be honest with yourself and with each other, it’s the best thing you can do for your relationship.
Discuss Paying the Bills
While we can’t see into the future, one thing is certain: you will have bills to pay. This can be anything from insurance to utilities, and you need to have an open conversation about who will pay which bills every month. Creating a spreadsheet of all your possible expenses that includes groceries and any pet-related costs, and then divvying up between each other is a good place to start.
Each couple will be different, as will their expenses and the amount they budget for fun like for sports wagering on betting apps. Some couples will find that opening a joint account is best for them, while others will find that assigning bills to each person is better. Find what works for you and take it from there.
Create a Plan in Case You Break Up
No one wants to think about breaking up when you first decide to move in together. That being said, speaking about what could happen if you break up is an important step to take before moving in together.
Knowing what will happen to your lease or mortgage, your pets and even the furniture you’ve bought together will make things much easier if the time when you part ways does come. It will save you a lot of hassle during what will undoubtedly be a difficult time.