How long should you date someone before you decide to move in together? This question has plagued couples probably since the beginning of time. Knowing when to take the leap of faith isn’t always easy to discern.
While some couples know early on that they’ve found their soulmate, others might not know when or if the time is right. Regardless of how long you’ve been together, one thing is certain: you don’t want to move in only to turn around and have to move out.
If you’re been thinking about taking your relationship to the next level, but aren’t sure if it’s the right time, this checklist is for you.
Money Matters
Financial woes are the leading cause of strife in relationships. If you or your partner isn’t honest about their finances, things can go downhill quickly. Before you reserve a moving van, have a serious conversation about money. Outline all of your debt and how much you’ll be able to contribute to monthly expenses.
If you have outstanding student loans, you can look to refinance into a new loan with a private lender. When compared with bank loans, the interest rates and loan terms for an Earnest student loan refinance can be more favorable.
Compatible Schedules
If you work days and they work nights, moving in together might not be the best decision. Now that so many people work from home, waking your better half up while getting ready for work could cause unnecessary arguments.
Unless you’re already cohabitating and found a rhythm that works for both of you, it’s probably better to hold off on moving in.
Current Living Arrangement
Are you already sleeping over four to five nights a week? If so, you probably have a good idea of what it’s like to wake up every day with your partner. If not, before you hire a professional moving company and jump right in, you need to do a trial run prior to actually moving in. Sleeping over once or twice a week is not the same as living together and having to share a space.
Future Goals
Where do you see yourself in five or 10 years? Do your life and career goals align with theirs? These are two serious questions you need to address. If you’re both on the same page, and the other relationship pieces are falling into place, you’re probably on the right track.
However, if they want to travel the world and you want to lay down roots where you are, moving in with your significant other might not end well. Even if you have slightly different views about the future, they still need to be on the same trajectory.Â
The same holds true when it comes to marriage and children. If they are happy staying single and child-free but you want to tie the knot and have a family, you probably won’t want to invest the time or emotional energy into the relationship. While it might not feel good now, it’s better than breaking your lease and then having to end your relationship later.
Aidan has been writing about personal finance for over 6 years. Prior to this, he worked as a Corporate Finance Analyst where he specialized in Due Diligence, Company Valuations and more. He is a CFA charterholder.
