House Hacking and Roommate Questions

[Robert Love]

Hello, BP friends,

I am new to real estate investing, and I am going to house hack a 4/2.  I am looking for 2 roommates.  I am also looking for additional roommates for a 4/3 home that I own.  Currently, one person is there, and I will find 3 additional roommates.  I have several questions and would appreciate anyone's insight.

1. Do you recommend midterm or long term tenants?

2. What platforms have you successfully used to find good roommates?  I am in Northern California, Sacramento region.

3. What are some ways that you set criteria in your listings that will help ensure you get tenants who are reliable, responsible, tidy, and considerate?

4. What are some house rules you have put in place to ensure harmony and order in the home? I am especially thinking about the 4/3 because four parties in one home is a lot. What can make this work so everyone benefits?

5. What procedures are in place for the common areas of the house?

6. What extras do you provide so tenants are happy and order is maintained (e.g., hiring a housekeeper to come in once a week, providing internet, sharing or not sharing utilities, extra refrigerators, etc.)?

7. In general, what makes your tenants happy and satisfied with the living arrangement?

Thank you for your insights.  Cheers!