House-sharing, Co-Living and HMOs - Alternative Ways of Living

In episode #23, Ludwina Dautovic and Peter Meek discuss how House-sharing, Co-Living and HMO's (House of Multiple Occupancy) are all alternative ways of living. 

Finding a place to call home can be a challenging and sometimes overwhelming task. Whether you're a homeowner, a renter, or someone interested in co-living arrangements, navigating the housing market can often leave you feeling uncertain and frustrated.
In episode #23 of The Room Xchange Podcast, we had the pleasure of speaking with Peter Meek, who has experienced housing from various angles. His unique insights shed light on the joys, challenges, and opportunities within the ever-evolving world of housing.

A Multifaceted Background 

Peter's diverse background immediately captured our attention. Having explored different housing options throughout his life, he brings a wealth of knowledge and experiences to the table. From being a homeowner and managing rental properties to embracing the concept of house sharing, Peter has gained invaluable insights into the dynamics of the housing market.

The Joy and Benefits of House Sharing

A popular alternative to traditional renting, emerged as a focal point of the conversation. Peter shared his enthusiasm for this concept, highlighting the positive aspects that extend beyond financial savings. Building relationships, creating a sense of community, and enjoying the company of like-minded individuals were among the numerous benefits he highlighted.

We're not just looking at a property, we're looking at a home, we're looking at a lifestyle, we're looking at friendships, we're looking at community." - Ludwina Dautovic

The Challenges of Finding Rental Properties

As the conversation unfolded, the challenges faced by renters became apparent. Peter discussed the difficulties many encounter in finding affordable and accessible rental properties, especially in the midst of a rental crisis. He emphasised the importance of platforms like The Room Xchange, which aims to connect homeowners with spare rooms to those in need of affordable accommodation.

Fostering Relationships Between Landlords and Tenants

Peter's experiences as a homeowner provided valuable insights into the landlord-tenant relationship. He stressed the significance of treating this relationship as a business partnership, emphasising open communication and trust. By establishing personal connections and showing genuine care for tenants, homeowners can foster a positive living experience for all parties involved.

If we can look at how we're living more from that perspective, then we're not only going to have much richer lives, we're going to be financially better off." Peter Meek

The Evolution of The Room Xchange

Peter's involvement with The Room Xchange, a platform that connects hosts with guests in a mutually beneficial exchange, showcased the potential for innovative solutions within the housing market. He highlighted the platform's role in creating safe and secure living arrangements while simultaneously fostering new friendships. The Room Xchange is not just about finding a place to stay; it's about building meaningful connections.

Creating Safe and Affordable Accommodation Options

With housing affordability being a pressing concern, Peter emphasised the importance of finding innovative ways to address this issue. Platforms like The Room Xchange provide a viable solution by offering safe and affordable housing options that benefit both hosts and guests. Through such initiatives, the housing market can become more inclusive and accessible for all.

Exploring the Concept of Co-Living

Another exciting topic discussed was co-living, an arrangement where individuals share a living space while maintaining their privacy. Peter shared his positive experiences with co-living arrangements, both locally and abroad. The concept offers an opportunity to form a community, reduce costs, and create a sense of belonging—a win-win situation for all involved.

The Win-Win Nature of HMOs (Houses in Multiple Occupation)

Peter also touched upon Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs), a type of property with multiple individual tenants. He explained how converting properties into HMOs can provide a secure rental income for homeowners while offering affordable accommodation for tenants. The reduced risk of all tenants moving out simultaneously makes it an appealing option for both parties.

Insights for a Diverse Housing Landscape In our conversation with Peter, we gained valuable insights into the diverse perspectives and experiences within the housing market. From house sharing to co-living and HMOs

Doing good is good business. If you build relationships and trust, then both sides benefit." Peter Meek