Nightmare Roommates!

Thinking about saving a few bucks by taking in a roommate? Or, maybe you have a son or daughter heading off to college and you're worried about who the roommate may be? Check out this article on MSN Real Estate, Nightmare Roommates for tips from my book, My Roommate is Driving Me Crazy!

BOOMERANG KIDS

When adult children move back home, it’s tough for everybody. If all goes well, your children act responsibly and are grateful for your help in getting them back on their feet. The key phrase is, “back on their feet.” In other words, the idea is that their time home is limited and they are doing all they can to return to the real world of independence. It’s when the opposite happens that a different type of help may be necessary.

Yesterday on Good Company, I discussed what to say if your adult children have turned into freeloaders. Watch the video here. It’s hard and disappointing because no parent wants to believe their children would take advantage of them, but some do. If that’s your situation, here’s an example of a conversation you must have with your son or daughter:

“I love you so much and I know you want to live on your own. I want that for you too. I realize I’ve been holding you back by doing too much for you. Because I believe you’re capable, I’m going to help you differently than I have in the past. I’m giving you a clear deadline in moving out (or other requirements like rent). If you’re not ready to meet these requirements, I trust you’ll find a different place to live at that time.”

Remember, when you do for your children what they should be doing for yourself, you’re reinforcing the message that you don’t believe they are capable.

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