Co-Housing SELF-ASSESSMENT QUESTIONS
Answer these questions honestly. No one is judging you — this is for YOUR benefit.
Section A: Your Personality and Lifestyle
Do you generally enjoy having people around, or do you prefer being alone most of the time?
When you are stressed or upset, do you need complete solitude, or does it help to have someone nearby?
How do you feel about unexpected changes to your plans or routine?
Are you comfortable asking for help when you need it?
Can you tolerate mess or clutter that is not yours without becoming resentful?
Do you have any habits that would be difficult for someone else to live with?
Section B: Communication and Conflict
When someone does something that bothers you, do you bring it up directly, or do you avoid confrontation?
Can you have a difficult conversation without getting defensive or shutting down?
How do you handle being corrected or receiving feedback?
Are you willing to compromise on things that matter to you for the sake of harmony?
If a conflict arises, are you willing to work through it, or would you rather just leave?
Section C: Parenting (If Applicable)
Are you comfortable with your children forming bonds with your housemate or her children?
Can you handle seeing another parent do things differently without judging or interfering?
Are you open to occasional childcare help, or do you prefer to handle everything yourself?
How do you feel about shared parenting philosophies versus completely independent approaches?
Section D: Finances and Shared Responsibilities
Are you comfortable splitting costs fairly and tracking shared expenses?
Can you handle the logistics of coordinating bills, groceries, and household supplies?
Are you okay with chores and household work being divided equally?
How do you feel if your housemate does not contribute equally to cleaning or upkeep?
Section E: Long-Term Vision
Why are you considering co-housing? (Financial necessity? Desire for community? Both?)
How long are you planning to stay in a co-housing arrangement?
What would make you want to leave early?
Are you open to building a long-term, supportive relationship with your housemate?
RED FLAGS
If you find yourself thinking or feeling any of the following, co-housing may not be a good fit:
I just need a cheap place to stay until I can afford my own place.
I do not want to deal with anyone else's drama or problems.
I cannot stand mess or disorder — everything needs to be perfect.
I hate having to explain myself or justify my choices.
I do not want to help anyone else — I have enough on my plate.
If someone does something I do not like, I will just move out rather than deal with it.
I need my home to be a sanctuary where I never have to interact with anyone.
If these statements resonate with you, that is okay — but co-housing is probably not the right choice. Living alone or finding a studio may serve you better.
