Are you considering PadSplit as a housing option but feeling uncertain? You’re not alone. Many potential residents have questions and concerns about this innovative coliving solution. In this blog post, we address 12 common reasons why you might hesitate to live in a PadSplit. From questions about costs and privacy to worries about living with strangers, we’ll provide transparent insights to help you decide if PadSplit is the right choice for you.
1. “I might not get approved for a membership.”
Approval for a PadSplit membership is simpler than you might think. 84% of applicants are approved within minutes. You don’t need a high credit score or a deposit; PadSplit’s membership criteria make it accessible for most people, including those with less-than-perfect credit histories.
To become a member, PadSplit requires a $19 non-refundable application fee and conducts background screenings where available to help ensure a positive community for all members. PadSplit’s approval process is quick and straightforward, with membership criteria designed to ensure a smooth experience. Once approved, you can book a room and move in within two days! Check out the details of our approval process.
2. “It’s too expensive to move in.”
The cost of moving into a PadSplit is significantly lower than that of traditional rental options. To move into a typical apartment, you can expect to pay:
- Security Deposit: Ranges from $1,000 to $2,000, depending on the rental market.
- First and Last Month’s Rent: Most apartments require you to pay both, totaling between $2,000 and $4,000 upfront.
- Application Fees and Other Miscellaneous Costs: Can range from $200 to $500.
- Utilities Deposit: May require an additional $100 to $300, depending on the provider.
In contrast, PadSplit’s move-in costs are structured to be more affordable and transparent:
- Membership Application Fee: This $19 fee covers your background check and employment verification. It varies based on current promotions but is non-refundable.
- Move-In Fee: This fee averages $100 and covers the cost of cleaning and preparing your room for move-in.
- Membership Dues: At a minimum, members pay their first week’s dues before moving in. There are scenarios where more than one week of dues might be required upfront, such as if a member opts to pay every two weeks, is between jobs, or customizes their dues schedule.
PadSplit aims to keep everything transparent, so there are no hidden fees or surprise costs beyond the initial charges outlined here. In contrast, moving into a traditional apartment can easily cost between $2,350 and $6,950. With PadSplit, you avoid hefty upfront costs and ongoing expenses like utility bills. Learn more about PadSplit’s move-in costs here.
3. “I don’t want to live with strangers.”
Living with roommates in a shared space can be both a challenge and an opportunity. PadSplit makes it easier for everyone to thrive by fostering a supportive community and offering a balance of privacy and social engagement. Members are pre-screened, and clear house rules ensure a respectful and comfortable environment for all.
For more social members like Craig, living in a PadSplit has been a great way to make friends and build connections. “I found unexpected friendships here, and it’s been a lot of fun getting to know my roommates,” Craig shared. On the other hand, more introverted members like Tyla enjoy their space without feeling pressured to socialize. “I don’t feel pressured to talk to any of my roommates. They all mind their own business, and I really enjoy that. It feels like I have the place to myself,” Tyla explained.
While living with roommates can sometimes lead to challenges, PadSplit encourages members to follow clear house rules, and our pre-screening process helps minimize conflicts. If issues arise, hosts are available to assist in resolving them quickly. Whether you’re looking to make new friends or prefer keeping to yourself, PadSplit offers an environment where both types of members can thrive.
4. “I’ve read negative reviews online.”
While negative reviews exist for any service, it’s important to remember that over 30,000 members have found affordable housing through PadSplit, with 89% recommending the service. PadSplit maintains a four-star rating on Trustpilot, with many members praising the platform for its affordability, flexibility, and supportive community. Like with any service, experiences may vary, but overall, PadSplit has helped many people find stable, affordable housing that works for them. Check out our Trustpilot reviews here.
5. “I don’t want to get stuck living there.”
PadSplit provides unmatched flexibility when it comes to moving in and out, making it a convenient option for those who need short-term or flexible housing solutions. In September 2024, PadSplit introduced a flexibility fee for stays shorter than 12 weeks, allowing members to stay for less than three months without any long-term commitment. Here’s how it works:
- Flexibility Fee: For stays shorter than 12 weeks, a $175 fee is paid upfront. This fee offsets booking costs and ensures short stays remain viable for our hosts.
- No Hidden Fees: If you choose to move out early (excluding transfers) without paying this fee, you will be charged two weeks of dues.
- Free Transfers: Every member is allowed one free transfer, regardless of how long you’ve stayed in the home. This benefit is one of the major advantages of PadSplit.
This flexible commitment model is ideal for those in transition, such as workers on short-term assignments or individuals looking for temporary housing without the hassle of long-term leases. PadSplit offers transparent pricing with details clearly outlined in the listing descriptions before booking. You can also choose to pay rent weekly or bi-weekly, aligning with your income schedule to make budgeting easier. Learn more about our flexibility terms and commitment options here.
6. “I’m worried it won’t be close to my work or school.”
Finding a room in the right location is essential, and PadSplit offers tools to make this easy. You can filter available rooms by location, price, and amenities to find the best fit for your needs. Whether you’re looking to be near public transportation, close to work, or near a school, PadSplit homes are strategically located in metro areas to ensure members can access key locations conveniently.
In addition, PadSplit offers a Commute Time Calculator on the Room Finder tool. This allows you to calculate the distance and estimated commute time to specific addresses using your preferred mode of transportation—whether that’s public transit, biking, or driving. This feature is perfect for ensuring your home is close enough to work, school, or other important destinations before booking. Explore our room locations and calculate your commute today!
7. “I won’t have any privacy.”
At PadSplit, personal space is essential, and each member is provided with a private, secure room equipped with a lock. Understanding that privacy needs vary from person to person, PadSplit also offers additional options for those seeking more seclusion. Some properties feature private bathrooms, perfect for members who prefer extra privacy. These rooms are in high demand but can be easily filtered during your search to find the best match.
If privacy is a top priority for you, PadSplit ensures that every member has the ability to enjoy a secure, private space. Explore available rooms with private bathrooms here.
8. “I don’t know if the place will be clean.”
Maintaining cleanliness in shared spaces can be a concern, but PadSplit emphasizes cleanliness and respect for communal living areas. Members are expected to follow house rules to keep spaces tidy, and many PadSplit properties include professional cleaning services on a weekly or bi-weekly basis. Hosts also perform regular maintenance and inspections to keep homes in good condition. If you’re ever concerned about cleanliness, you can communicate through the platform to address any issues directly with your housemates or the host. Read our cleanliness guidelines.
9. “It’ll be too noisy.”
One of the key features of PadSplit homes is the enforcement of “Quiet Time” from 11:00 pm to 9:00 am daily, ensuring a peaceful environment for all residents. These quiet hours help maintain a restful atmosphere, making it easier for everyone to sleep, work, and relax in peace. Additionally, the clear house rules and communication channels available through the PadSplit platform help minimize potential noise disruptions. Learn more about our quiet hours and membership rules.
10. “I can’t bring my pet.”
PadSplit generally does not allow pets, but exceptions are made for certified service animals and emotional support animals, provided the proper documentation is submitted. This policy helps ensure that members with essential needs can still benefit from PadSplit’s housing options while maintaining a clean and manageable environment for everyone. See more about our pet policy.
11. “It’s not safe.”
Safety is a top priority at PadSplit. All homes are equipped with secure entry codes and locks on each bedroom door, which are updated whenever a resident moves out. PadSplit’s background screening process helps maintain a safe and respectful community. Additionally, hosts and PadSplit support staff are always available to help resolve any issues or conflicts, ensuring a peaceful living environment.
For many members, PadSplit has provided a safe, comfortable space to rebuild their lives. PadSplit member, Nene, shared her experience after leaving a 17-year abusive relationship. “The best part is the security—cameras, rules, double locks on our bedroom doors. I feel so safe knowing I see the same people every day,” she explained. For members like Nene, PadSplit offers not only privacy but a sense of safety and peace of mind. Read more about PadSplit’s commitment to safety here.
12. “There might be better places to live.”
While other housing options are available, PadSplit stands out for its affordability, flexibility, and community support. PadSplit’s model offers affordable, all-inclusive weekly payments with no large deposits, making it a more accessible option than most traditional apartments.
Many members have also seen significant improvements in their financial situations while living at PadSplit. For example, Carol paid off $43,000 in student loans and built her credit through PadSplit. “If you want to revive, restructure, and rebuild your life, you can do it through PadSplit,” she shared. Learn more about how much you could save with PadSplit.
Final thoughts
Making a housing decision is a big step, and it’s natural to have concerns. However, PadSplit is designed to address these worries while offering a cost-effective and flexible living solution. With over 30,000 members already finding success in affordable, secure housing, PadSplit could be the perfect option for you. Ready to explore your options? Find your room or calculate your savings with PadSplit today!
Still have questions? Explore our FAQ or reach out to Member Support for personalized help.
