OVERVIEW OF HOMESHARING
What is Homesharing?
Homesharing is a simple idea where two or more people share a home to their mutual benefit. The home can be an apartment, condominium or a traditional single-family house. A person offers a private or shared bedroom and shared common area in exchange for rent, help around the house, or a combination of the two. Every homesharing arrangement is unique; it depends on the needs, time, interests, and abilities of the people involved. It differs from a typical roommate situation because, at its core, it is about two people helping each other.
What Homesharing is Not
Homesharing works best for people sharing their homes who are relatively independent with no expectation that the homesharer is available around the clock for assistance. Homesharing does not include any type of personal care as part of the service exchange (bathing, toileting, dressing assistance). Homesharing can prevent or delay nursing home placement but it is not an alternative to nursing home care. Combining homesharing with other supports such as hired caregiving services can help seniors and others stay in their home longer.
For those seeking short-term or emergency housing, homesharing is generally not a good fit because the process of finding the right match takes time. It is not a traditional housing program with waiting lists nor an entitlement to housing based on meeting eligibility criteria.
Why People Homeshare
There are many reasons people decide to share their home. Some like the idea of having another person nearby to offer companionship and security. Others need help with household tasks to remain living comfortably in their home. Homesharing is for people of all ages, incomes, and abilities. It is simply about people living together for mutual benefit.
An exchange of services is an excellent way to save money for both parties. The landlord does not have to hire outside services and the homesharer pays reduced rent in exchange for providing some services.
