Tips for sharing a flat

Sharing a flat is one of the most common — and enriching — experiences for students, young professionals, and digital nomads. Whether it’s your first time or you want to improve your living situation, following some tips can make the difference between a great experience and a stressful one.

At Cotown, specialists in coliving in Spain, we know that living with others can be as stimulating as it is challenging. Here are some key points to make sharing a flat a success.

1. Define the flat-sharing rules from the start

Setting some basic rules at the beginning is essential to avoid misunderstandings. Can guests be invited? How are household chores divided? What happens if someone wants to host a dinner with friends?

Creating a small "house rules" guide or simply having an honest conversation can prevent unnecessary conflicts. In coliving spaces like those at Cotown, many of these rules are already integrated, making harmony among residents easier.

2. Respect common areas (and private spaces)

The kitchen, bathroom, or living room are shared zones, and keeping them clean and tidy shows respect. Equally important is learning to respect others’ personal space: don’t enter other people’s rooms without permission and avoid making noise at odd hours.

One of the values of coliving is finding the balance between community and privacy, and at Cotown, we design our spaces to foster both.

3. Communication is key to good coexistence

Good communication prevents small problems from turning into big arguments. If something bothers you, express it politely and openly. Don’t hold onto frustrations.

It’s also important to listen. Sometimes putting yourself in someone else’s shoes helps understand situations that at first seem annoying.

4. Share, but don’t overwhelm

Sharing a flat doesn’t mean you have to do everything together. It’s fine to suggest plans, dinners, or games, but it’s also normal for each person to have their own pace and preferences. Respecting this creates a healthy living environment.

At Cotown accommodations, we encourage community activities, but always with the freedom to join or not. Because personal well-being is a priority too.

5. Be punctual with payments

One of the biggest sources of conflict in shared flats is money. Make sure to pay rent and shared expenses on time. If there’s a common fund for basic products or services, contribute in the same proportion as others.

One advantage of the coliving model is that many of these issues are already solved: at Cotown, bills are included and everything is managed simply and transparently.

6. Be kind and patient

Sharing a flat means living with people different from you. There will be good days and more difficult ones. Empathy, respect, and an open attitude make all the difference.

Remember: a smile, a “thank you,” or a kind gesture can change the whole atmosphere of the shared living experience.

Looking to share a flat without complications? Discover Cotown coliving

Living in community can be a transformative experience when done with intelligence and respect. At Cotown, we take flat-sharing to the next level with coliving accommodations in Spain’s main cities. Modern spaces, professionally managed, with all services included, and an international community eager to grow just like you.

If you want, I can also help you adapt this for an English-speaking audience or make it more formal or casual!