| So you and your partner have been an item for a | | | | If at all possible, the running of the new home you |
| while, and the inevitable question has been asked- | | | | share should also be split between the two of you. If |
| should you move in together? Would domestic bliss | | | | one partner is earning more than the other, then a |
| await the two of you in your new pad? Possibly. | | | | different amount could be considered, but the |
| Living together can be a wonderful experience, but it | | | | responsibility should not be on one person alone. It |
| can also be far from easy. There are a number of | | | | could be beneficial to open a joint bank account |
| things to take into consideration when thinking about | | | | solely for the running of the home- money that goes |
| moving into a new place together. | | | | into that account could then be left alone, with the |
| Domesticity: | | | | remaining income available for food etc. Take into |
| Remember, living with your partner is a team effort. | | | | account rent, bills and a little extra for repairs should |
| Make sure both of you do your fair share of | | | | they be needed. Leaving food out of the equation |
| household tasks, shopping, dishes, cleaning and so on. | | | | allows you to budget for grocery shopping |
| Split the tasks as close to 50/50 as you can manage, | | | | separately. |
| or you could work out a rota between you. If one | | | | Decorating: |
| partner is not working, then the quota could be | | | | When deciding on furnishings and decoration for your |
| different, but if you are both working, then split the | | | | home, again remember to take one another's tastes |
| chores down the middle. | | | | into account, and while you may have wildly differing |
| Compromise: | | | | ideas of how a home should be done out, there is |
| A happy home environment is one where the tastes | | | | always a suitable compromise. Think of colours and |
| and desires of each partner are respected. Alternate | | | | furniture items that you both like, instead of |
| who cooks and the dishes that are made. The same | | | | concentrating on your personal ideal for your home. |
| goes for TV shows, music, and games. Keep in mind | | | | The key is to always keep your partner's |
| the wants and needs of your partner- your home life | | | | preferences in mind. If the two of you can manage |
| should be relaxed and pleasant for both of you. | | | | to remember that living together is a partnership, |
| Finance: | | | | then life at home can indeed be bliss. |
