1. What is the Rent Sharing Calculator?

The Rent Sharing Calculator helps roommates fairly divide rent based on room weights. It accounts for differences in room size, amenities, and other factors that affect value.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the weighted rent sharing formula:

Where:

• \( \text{Total Rent} \) — The full rent amount for the entire apartment/house
• \( \text{Room Weight} \) — The weight/points assigned to your specific room
• \( \text{Total Weight} \) — The sum of weights for all rooms in the apartment

Explanation: The equation ensures each roommate pays proportionally based on their room's value compared to the total value of all rooms.

3. Importance of Fair Rent Calculation

Details: Fair rent division prevents conflicts among roommates by objectively accounting for differences in room size, amenities, natural light, closet space, and other factors that affect room desirability.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips:

1. Determine weights for each room based on agreed criteria (size, amenities, etc.)
2. Enter the total monthly rent amount
3. Enter your room's weight and the total weight of all rooms
4. Calculate to see your fair share of the rent

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: How should we determine room weights?
A: Common factors include square footage, private bathroom, closet size, natural light, noise levels, and access to amenities.

Q2: What if rooms are similar in size?
A: If rooms are truly equal, you can assign equal weights and divide rent evenly.

Q3: How to handle common areas?
A: Common areas are typically not weighted - their value is shared equally among all roommates.

Q4: What if someone gets parking or storage?
A: Add separate weights for these amenities to account for their additional value.

Q5: Should utilities be divided the same way?
A: Utilities are typically divided equally unless there are significant usage differences.