Coabode or renting out when you're single mom -- what was your experience like?

[Anonymous]

Hi there, newly separated and am thinking about renting out our beautifully finished basement apartment. Wondering what to watch out for and what your experience has been like if you do rent out. It's my 6 year old and I and it's our dream house minus the ex. I'm planning to have a lease but I've heard both good and bad stories of coaboding as well as renting out to strangers. Would greatly appreciate hearing about your experiences. Thanks!

[Anonymous]

I got a 50 year old single professional female to rent my basement. She's a librarian and an attorney.

If the apartment is indeed beautiful, then aim high - get a responsible, mature professional person.

Worked for us.

[Anonymous]

I am a soon to be single mom with a 1 year old boy. I am have been searching for a place to live in DC and am having a hard time finding a place that is affordable and in a safe neighborhood. Right now we have a nice SFH in the Palisades but I wouldn't be able to afford the rent on my own. If your still looking to rent out your basement I would love to talk to you about it. I have a masters degree and a good job and am very responsible.

[Anonymous]

get a security deposit, run a credit check or have them pull up there own since its free, no pets no smoking, you can also look up any criminal issues on the public records, include utilies in rent annd make sure you have working smoke alarms etc downstairs

[Kari1167]

I am also a newly single mom (I have a son who will be three in July) who is registered on Coabode. I have a place lined up for September 1st, but absolutely canNOT afford the place on my own.
It is on Q Street NW. A two bedroom basement apartment with central air, washer/dryer, access to a rooftop deck & is in a great location. The rent would a $1,000 plus utilities.
If anyone is looking or knows anyone who is, please let me know.
Thanks a million!
Kari