I own a house ($2500 mortgage). My girlfriend is moving in. How much, if any, should she pay in rent?

Question

She currently pays $800 a month for her apartment. My home is 3bed/2bath and we would be sharing a room. Do girlfriends pay anything? Fair market rent? Discount for love? This is a relationship etiquette / real estate question. We've already gotten into a heated discussion over this. HELP ME!

Answer 1

Well remember that she doesn't get any tax breaks for the place, you do.  Therefore you can take more exemptions and get a fatter paycheck.  I am in a similar situation.  His mortgage/taxes/condo fees are about what you're paying.  I agreed to pay for all the utilities, the condo fees, food, and $500/month in rent.   That all comes to about $1000/month, so, minus the food, about 1/3.  But, I went from paying a $2100/month mortgage on an empty house to moving in with him and paying rent.  We're both better off.

I think $800 a month would be fair because she'd be in the same financial situation as she was before.

Answer 2

Girlfriends do pay, but the amount is often up for debate.

What she was paying for her apartment is of no consequence here, that was her place, her own space, she didn't have to share the kitchen or the toothbrush holder.

You don't say what the debate was about, but if she is balking at paying anything toward the household expenses, I would end the relationship right where you are.

If it was the amount, decide what an equitable way to divy up expenses and chores works for both of you.  (Assuming that she is going to assume some of the day to day household duties)  No one can tell you what this arrangement should be, you two need to be adults and work this out amongst yourselves.  

Answer 3

i think you should charge her 1/3 of wat needs to be paid. if shes working. if not then obviously she cant pay anything.

goodluck!

Answer 4

The domestic counselor fairy whispered in my ear that there is never going to be an answer that satisfies both of you and wonders about the relationship.

Answer 5

My bet you two are on completely opposite sides of the spectrum on this, Right?

Good Luck on this one: Few observations, how much should she contribute to paying your note and living expenses? I will assume you are not offering equity in the house, so she pay’s you to live in your place while your equity grows and you get the fringe benefits? But on the other hand she should not expect to live rent free just because of the fringe benefits either

Answer 6

the s*x she provides should be enough.

Answer 7

your girl is a player

Answer 8

Charge your girlfriend 25% of her gross monthly income for rent and 1/2 of the monthly bills that are commonly associated with the rental of an apartment, such as utilities, phone and cable - and 1/3 of the grocery bill.  Since the house is your property and your investment, you stand to gain so give your girlfriend a break.  I have chosen the above percentages because I think your girlfriend is entitled to a "love discount", and because I have a strong feeling that the care of the home will fall mostly in her hands; she is the also the one taking the risk by moving into "your" home.  If you two break up, she will be the one without a home.  Any home improvements or such purchases as carpets, drapes, etc., you should pay for.  If you buy any furniture together, do so with the clear agreement of who gets what in the event of a breakup, even if you have to put it in writing or purchase such things separately to avoid any confusion later.

I wish you would go into more detail about your "heated discussion" - that would give everyone more facts to work with and what for be fair and equitable for the two of you.

Answer 9

I assume she is moving in because yall wanted to live with each other. So, I would say she should pay $1000 and one of the bills like electric, phone, cable, etc.  This is how it would be if you were to get married. I assume you asked the question because you want her to pay something and to help out.  So dont be scared to hash it out until you both are happy with the arrangement.  If she doesnt pay anything and you want her to, that may cause underlying tension on your end.  Some conversations need to be had.  

Answer 10

WOW!!!!1 hahahahhaa. I would charge her half bro. If she loves you she will want to share the responsibility. Unless she cant afford it, then I would give her a break, but not much.  Your house is what?? 350-400K . Get a smaller house. Girlfriends are expensive. They're just like kids.