How to search for a roommate

When I was a student there were always noticeboards covered with share house ads around the university - I"m guessing that's still the case.

I've used a (paid) Roommates matching service a few yrs ago. You might want to check that out. It's in many other cities beside Boston, too. http://www.roommates.com

Last year, I used Craigslist and had a very successful match with somone who was recently divorced. He was a landlord who needed someone to help defray his expenses. I rented for $520/month plus util. and had access to half of this duplex. He was a teacher and during the summer went on vacation for 4 weeks so for awhile I had the whole place to myself.

I still prefer to go through universities - some still have housing offices. I always preferred 4th year or grad students as they had to work and go to school. Less time to be around the house to annoy me.

I've done the same thing - I remember it wasn't hugely expensive, but it was definately helpful. Craigslist scares me.

Any time you are answering ads online (or otherwise) one should be cautious.

I know what you're saying about concerns with Craigslist; however, the problem is that when you're on their Personals ads page is that there've been ads for hookers, pimps services, etc. In fact, Craigslist has been taken to court over their policies for personals ads.

That being said, people who are looking to share their space and place ads are, for the most part, pretty legit.

I have used roommates.com as well in the past. Highly recommend it. Also there are local services that act as third party interviews that work as well. Can't remember which one I used when I lived in Framingham, MA.

Sublet.com is another good site.

Yep. Avoid craigslist and the other free services go with one service that will only charge a one time fee or a low monthly charge for security sake.