Looking for the perfect coliving space?
Here's what you need to know upfront:
- Decide what you need: Figure out your priorities - work-focused spaces, community vibes, or flexible stays.
- Set your budget: Plan for all-inclusive costs like rent, utilities, and services (30-40% of income is a good rule).
- Research options: Use platforms like Coliving.com to compare locations, amenities, and reviews.
- Check amenities: Look for essentials like fast internet, furnished rooms, and social or workspaces.
- Review terms: Understand booking rules, fees, and cancellation policies before committing.
- Virtual tour: Get a feel for the community and ensure it aligns with your lifestyle.
Coliving spaces offer more than just housing - they bundle convenience, community, and cost-effectiveness. Start by identifying your needs, explore your options, and choose a space that fits your work-life balance and goals.
Step 1: Figure Out What You Need
Knowing exactly what you’re looking for will help you find a coliving space that matches your lifestyle. Let’s dive into the key factors to think about.
Decide Why You're Moving
Your main reason for choosing coliving will shape what features matter most to you. Here are some common types of spaces:
- Work-focused spaces: Perfect if you need coworking areas, fast internet, and quiet zones to stay productive.
- Community-oriented spaces: Great for those who enjoy social events, shared activities, and networking opportunities.
- Explorer-friendly spaces: Ideal for flexible stays and locations that make it easy to explore new cities.
Set Your Budget
Figure out how much you’re willing to spend before committing to a space. Here’s a breakdown of typical costs to consider:
A general rule of thumb is to allocate about 30-40% of your monthly income to rent.
List Your Must-Haves
Think about what’s non-negotiable for you. This can include:
Practical Needs:
- Do you want a private room, or are you okay with sharing?
- Preferences for private or shared bathrooms.
- Reliable internet and workspace setup.
- Kitchen and storage requirements.
Community Features:
- Are social events and activities important to you?
- What kind of resident demographics do you prefer?
- Common areas and house rules that align with your lifestyle.
Once you’ve nailed down your priorities, you’ll be ready to find a space that checks all the right boxes.
Step 2: Look Into Your Options
Now that you’ve identified your needs, it’s time to start exploring coliving spaces in an organized way.
Use Reliable Platforms
Websites like Coliving.com feature thousands of spaces worldwide, providing detailed information to help you make an informed decision. Key things to check include:
Consider the Location
Pick a location that works for your lifestyle. Focus on how close it is to public transit, essential services, and your workplace. In cities, aim to be within a 10-15 minute walk of key amenities. In suburban areas, check for reliable transit options or parking availability.
While the location is important, remember that the people you live with will shape your everyday experience.
Get to Know the Community
Look into the size, demographics, and vibe of the community. Pay attention to events, house rules, and how residents interact to see if it match what you’re looking for.
"The community aspect of coliving can significantly impact your daily life. Look for spaces where the resident demographics and social atmosphere align with your lifestyle preferences", says Daniel Beck, founder of Coliving.com.
Once you’ve narrowed down your options based on location and community, it’s time to dig deeper into the details of each space.
Step 3: Check the Amenities and Services
Amenities and services play a big role in what sets coliving spaces apart. They provide convenience and help create an environment for productivity and connection. Once you've found some options in your preferred location, take a closer look at what each one offers to make sure it fits your lifestyle.
Look for Basic Amenities
Start by checking for the essentials that support your daily routine. These include reliable internet, comfortable furniture, and a functional kitchen setup.
Check Social Features
A strong sense of community is a hallmark of coliving spaces. Look into the social aspects that encourage interaction and networking. These might include:
- Community events like weekly dinners
- Shared lounges and entertainment areas
- Networking opportunities with professionals
- Workshops for skill-sharing
- Cultural exchange programs
These features can help you gauge the community vibe and decide if it's a good fit for you.
Consider Extra Perks
Beyond the basics, some coliving spaces offer additional perks that can enhance your experience. These might include fitness centers, wellness programs, or outdoor spaces. Focus on amenities that align with your lifestyle and budget.
Common premium perks include:
- Fitness centers
- Wellness programs
- Laundry services
- Rooftop or outdoor spaces
- Extra storage options
Make sure the amenities are well-maintained and accessible. It's also a good idea to talk to current residents about the quality of maintenance and how quickly repairs are handled.
"To determine if a coliving space's amenities align with your needs, make a list of your must-haves and compare them with what the space offers. Consider factors like your lifestyle, work requirements, and personal preferences", advises a Coliving.com community expert.
Once you've reviewed the amenities and perks, you're ready to look into the financial and contractual details of your top choices.
Step 4: Review the Terms and Costs
Before joining a coliving space, take time to understand the financial details and legal terms. This helps you avoid surprises and ensures you know exactly what you're agreeing to.
Read the Contract Carefully
The lease agreement spells out your rights and responsibilities. Make sure you fully understand these terms to avoid issues and ensure the arrangement meets your needs.
If you spot unclear language or harsh penalties, discuss these points with the management team before signing.
Understand What You're Paying For
Make sure you know exactly what costs are included and what might come as an extra charge. Some spaces market "all-inclusive" utilities but may have limits, like caps on electricity usage. Asking about these details upfront can save you from unexpected fees.
Here are some key areas to clarify:
- Utility policies, including any usage limits or overage charges
- Fees for optional events, such as workshops or networking dinners
- Costs for premium amenities
- Cleaning service schedules and any restrictions
- Charges for additional storage, if needed
- Create a checklist to review key contract points, such as lease terms and additional fees.
Once you’ve gone through the terms and costs in detail, you’ll be better prepared to decide if the space is the right fit for your needs.
Step 5: Finalize Your Choice
Now that you've weighed your options, it's time to choose the coliving space that fits your needs best. This step blends careful evaluation with trusting your instincts.
Check Out the Space
If possible, get a real sense of the environment through a 3D tour and photos. This allows you to see how residents interact, gauge the atmosphere, and imagine your daily life there.
Can you visit in person? Virtual tours are a great alternative.
Make Your Choice
Use a simple checklist to compare your top picks. Focus on the key factors you identified earlier, such as:
- Cost and what’s included
- Location and ease of access
- Community fit
- Amenities and workspace options
- Social and networking opportunities
Trust your gut. Think about how the space matches your lifestyle and goals. Ask yourself:
- Do you feel comfortable with the residents?
- Can you maintain a good work-life balance here?
- Does the atmosphere align with your values?
- Are there chances to grow your professional network?
"Think about your long-term goals and how the coliving space will support them. If you're looking to build a professional network, a space with coworking facilities and regular events may be ideal."
Once you’ve made your decision, you’re all set to dive into the unique experiences and connections that coliving can bring.
Final Steps to Find the Right Coliving Space
Finding the perfect coliving space becomes much easier with a clear plan. By identifying what you need, doing thorough research, and making smart choices, you can select a place that fits your work and personal life.
Online platforms can save you time by providing detailed comparisons. When it comes to location, pick a spot that matches your lifestyle - whether you prefer the buzz of the city or a more relaxed environment. Being close to public transport can also reduce commuting and give you more time to connect with your community.
There’s more to consider than just location. Check local rules to avoid any surprises during your move. The right coliving space should offer convenience while also helping you grow.
Choose a space that aligns with your goals, whether that’s networking, discovering new opportunities, or finding balance.
Wishing you all the best on your coliving journey.
Warm regards,
Daniel Beck, Founder of Coliving.com
