Guest FAQ | Explore Co-Housing Options Today

Join our waitlist (free). When we start matching Guests (summer 2026), we'll email you to complete your background check ($35) and compatibility assessment. Once verified, we'll match you with compatible Hosts and send you their profiles. You'll meet them via video call and choose if you want to move forward.
No. Joining the waitlist is completely free. You only pay when you're matched and ready to move in: The first 5 Founding GUESTS are on us, the next 25 pay $35 for your background check fee (one-time) + first month's rent and security deposit to your Host.
We're launching Guest matching in summer 2026 (June-July). Right now we're recruiting and vetting our first 20 Founding Hosts. Join the waitlist now and you'll be first in line when verified homes become available.
Once we start matching (summer 2026), it typically takes 2-6 weeks to find a compatible Host, depending on your budget, location preferences, and move-in timeline. We prioritize quality matches over speed. If you have a deadline to move, please let us know.

Rent varies by location, room type, and amenities, typically $600-1,200/month in Tampa Bay. You'll also pay: (1) Background check: $35 (one-time, required), (2) First month's rent to Host, (3) Security deposit to Host (usually equal to one month's rent, refundable). Lilypad doesn't charge Guests any placement fees or ongoing monthly fees.
Yes, typically 40-60% less. A one-bedroom apartment in Tampa Bay averages $1,400-1,800/month. Renting a private room through Lilypad typically costs $600-1,200/month. Plus you share utilities, which saves even more.
his varies by Host. Most include utilities (electric, water, internet), but some charge separately. Some rooms are furnished, others aren't. Each listing clearly states what's included. Ask during your video call with the Host.
Rent is set by the Host, but there's some flexibility. Some Hosts offer reduced rent ($300-600/month) in exchange for help with household tasks (yard work, grocery runs, etc.). If you're interested in this arrangement, let us know during your compatibility assessment.
Yes, as long as you don't damage the property beyond normal wear and tear. Your Host holds the deposit and returns it within 30 days of move-out (per Florida law), minus any legitimate deductions for damages. This is standard landlord-tenant practice. We strongly recommend you use the Move-In/Move-Out tomplates that we will provide you to document the state of the home.

Every Host goes through: (1) Background check (criminal history), (2) Virtual home tour (we inspect the property via video), (3) Photo verification (we review photos of the room and common areas), (4) Income/ownership verification (we confirm they own or have permission to rent), and (5) Compatibility assessment. We only approve Hosts who meet our safety and quality standards.
Absolutely! We require a video call (or in-person meeting) before any lease is signed. You'll meet the Host, see the space, ask questions, and get a feel for compatibility. No commitment required until you're both ready.
Trust your gut. If something feels off during the video call or meeting, decline the match. We'll find you another option. Your safety is our top priority. We will provide you with helpful questions to understand your host better.
Contact us immediately. We provide ongoing support and will provide mediattion resources, facilitate communication, or help you find alternative housing if needed. We check in at 1 week and 1 month post-move-in, but you can reach us anytime.

Based on your compatibility assessment, we look for Hosts who match your: budget, location preferences, lifestyle (cleanliness, noise level, schedule), household preferences (pets, guests, shared meals), and values. We send you 2-3 compatible options and you choose.
Yes! We send you profiles of compatible Hosts. You review them, we set up video calls, and you decide who you want to live with. You have final say.
We'll keep looking. There's no pressure to accept a match you're not excited about. We'd rather find the right fit than rush you into an uncomfortable situation.
Yes. During your application, you'll indicate preferred areas (South Tampa, St. Pete, near USF, etc.). We'll prioritize those areas, though availability depends on where our Hosts are located.

Yes. Every Lilypad Guest gets a private bedroom. Bathrooms may be private or shared, depending on the home - this will be clearly stated in the listing.
No. Some Guests and Hosts become friends and enjoy sharing meals or watching TV together. Others prefer to keep to themselves. Both approaches are fine. You'll discuss expectations during your video call before moving in.
We'll tell you upfront if a Host has pets. If you're allergic or uncomfortable with animals, we'll only match you with pet-free homes.

Most arrangements are month-to-month or 6-12 month leases. You and your Host decide what works best. Longer leases often come with slightly lower rent; month-to-month offers more flexibility.
Your rental agreement will specify notice requirements (typically 30 days). If you need to leave earlier, discuss with your Host - many are understanding about life changes. Forfeiting your security deposit or finding a replacement tenant may be options.
Yes. Even though you're renting a room (not an entire apartment), you still have tenant rights under Florida law: right to habitable housing, privacy, proper notice before entry, return of security deposit, etc. Your rental agreement should outline these rights.
Your Host must provide proper notice per your rental agreement and Florida law (typically 30 days for month-to-month). They cannot evict you without cause or proper legal process. If you feel you're being unfairly evicted, contact us and consider consulting a tenant rights attorney.

Some are, some aren't. Each listing specifies whether the room is furnished or unfurnished. Furnished typically means bed, dresser, and nightstand at minimum. If unfurnished, you bring your own furniture.
Each listing specifies parking availability (driveway, street, garage, etc.). Make sure to ask about this during your video call if it's important to you.
Most Hosts include WiFi in the rent, but confirm during your video call. If it's not included, you can set up your own or discuss splitting costs.
Yes, you'll have access to the kitchen. Some Hosts prefer you have your own shelf/area in the fridge and pantry; others are more communal. Discuss kitchen usage and food storage during your video call.
Most homes have washer/dryer access. Some Hosts include laundry in rent; others ask you to pay a small fee per load or provide your own detergent. This will be specified in the listing.

Some Hosts welcome families; others prefer adults-only. Let us know in your application and we'll match you with family-friendly Hosts. Note that rent may be higher for two people.
Yes! We work with people on various income sources: salary, hourly wages, pension, Social Security, disability, freelance income. As long as you can verify income that's 2.5-3x the monthly rent, you're eligible. Some Hosts may accept Section 8; ask us to prioritize those matches.
Yes! Many of our Guests are relocating for work or school. We just need to verify your income (offer letter, paystubs from current job, savings) and get personal references since you won't have local landlord references.
Yes, you'll have access to the kitchen. Some Hosts prefer you have your own shelf/area in the fridge and pantry; others are more communal. Discuss kitchen usage and food storage during your video call.
Most homes have washer/dryer access. Some Hosts include laundry in rent; others ask you to pay a small fee per load or provide your own detergent. This will be specified in the listing.