"Housemate compatibility isn’t just a nice-to-have; it’s the foundation of any great co-living experience"
- Vann Vogstad - COHO
Finding the right houseshare can be a challenge, with everything from rent to personalities shaping the experience. A new survey from COHO, the HMO management platform, asked more than 500 tenants across the UK what advice they would give to someone searching for their next shared home.
Compatibility is key
When asked about the most important factor in choosing a houseshare, 24% of tenants highlighted compatibility with housemates as the top priority. Close behind, 19% advised double-checking exactly what is included in the rent, such as Wi-Fi, water and cleaning services, to avoid unexpected costs.
What to look for during a viewing
Tenants also shared practical tips for in-person viewings. The most common advice, given by 21% of respondents, was to observe the social dynamic of the household. Talking with tenants and noticing how they interact can help determine whether you would feel comfortable living there.
Other key points raised included:
cleanliness and general condition of the property (18%)
bathroom availability and how many people share facilities (16%)
security of doors and windows (15%)
Getting to know the housemates
To judge compatibility, 30% recommended understanding potential housemates’ lifestyles, including work schedules, social habits and preferred activities. Meanwhile, 27% suggested having an open and honest conversation during the viewing, while 22% said trusting your instincts is crucial if something feels off.
Avoiding co-living conflict
The survey also explored the main causes of disputes in shared homes. The biggest triggers included:
clashing personalities (24%)
disagreements over cleaning and chores (23%)
noise, unexpected guests and broken house rules (20%)
Creating the right environment
Vann Vogstad, founder and chief executive at COHO, explained why compatibility matters so much. “Housemate compatibility isn’t just a nice-to-have; it’s the foundation of any great co-living experience,” he said. “When people feel aligned in lifestyle, values, and expectations, the house becomes more than just a roof over their head; it becomes a true home. That’s why we ensure that lifestyle and interest information is front and centre on all our property listings. It’s not just about the number of bedrooms or whether bills are included, it’s about helping people find the kind of home where they genuinely belong, somewhere that enriches their life, gives them a still point in a turning world, and even sets them up with friendships that last a lifetime.”
