A Homeowner’s Delight: Renting Out a Room for Extra Income and Companionship
Meet Margaret, a widow living in Cabra, Dublin. Her two children have left home, one is married and living abroad, the other is married and living in Limerick. Here is Margaret’s story of renting out a room in her home.
When I first considered renting out a room in my home for a few days each week, I was hesitant. As a homeowner, the idea of sharing my personal space with a stranger felt daunting. However, the potential benefits—financial gain, social interaction, and even the possibility of making a new friend—convinced me to give it a try. What unfolded was an experience that exceeded my expectations in more ways than one.
Financial Freedom – Extra Income !
An accountant friend had advised me on the Governments rent a room scheme, where I could earn up to €14,000 per annum Tax Free! They also suggested using Getdigs.ie a service that specialize in home room rental for part of the week i.e. Digs.
One of the most immediate and obvious benefits of renting out a room was the additional income. Living in a spacious house, I realized I had unused space that could be put to better use.
By renting out one of my rooms for just three nights a week, I was able to significantly reduce my monthly mortgage payments. This extra income provided a cushion for unexpected expenses and even allowed me to save up for a much-needed holiday. The financial relief was immense, and it felt good to know that my home was not just a place of residence but also a source of income.
Building Meaningful Connections
Beyond the financial benefits, one of the most surprising aspects was the social interaction. As someone who lives alone, I sometimes found my house too quiet. Inviting a Lodger into my home for part of the week added a vibrant dynamic to my daily routine. I had the pleasure of meeting diverse individuals, each bringing their own stories, experiences, and perspectives. From traveling professionals to students from around the country, my guests enriched my life with new friendships and cultural exchanges.
One guest, in particular, became a regular. Jane, a freelance graphic designer from Kerry, needed a place to stay while working on a six-month contract. Over time, our initial Homeowner-Lodger relationship evolved into a genuine friendship. We started sharing meals, watching movies, and even taking weekend trips together. This companionship transformed my living experience, making my home feel even more welcoming and lively. Anytime she visits Dublin she stays with me.
Enhanced Home Security
Another unexpected benefit was the added security. Having someone around during the times I was away or even just during the evenings when I was home late provided an extra layer of protection. It was comforting to know that my house wasn’t left empty for extended periods. Additionally, my guests appreciated the security of having a homeowner present, which created a mutual sense of safety and trust.
Improved Home Management
Hosting guests also motivated me to maintain my home better. Knowing that someone would be staying in my space encouraged me to keep things clean and organized. This improved the overall condition of my home and instilled a sense of pride in my living environment. It also prompted me to tackle long-neglected projects, like redecorating the guest room and upgrading some household amenities. These improvements not only benefited my guests but also enhanced my own living experience.
Flexibility and Control
One of the greatest aspects of renting out a room was the flexibility it offered. Unlike a full-time Lodger, my guests stayed for a few days each week, allowing me to maintain control over my space. I used platforms like Getdigs.ie that facilitated short-term rentals, which made managing bookings simple and straightforward. I could choose whom to host, set house rules, and schedule bookings around my convenience. This flexibility ensured that the arrangement always felt manageable and suited my lifestyle.
Also Getdigs.ie have a simple messaging system on their website that allows the homeowner to anonymously query the potential Lodger prior to meeting them, this acts as a very solid vetting system and gave me a great degree of comfort that the lodger and I would be a good fit.
Final Thoughts
Renting out a room in my home for part of the week turned out to be a rewarding experience that went beyond just financial gain. It brought companionship, enhanced security, and encouraged better home management. Most importantly, it allowed me to utilize my home in a way that supported my lifestyle while making meaningful connections with diverse individuals. If you’re a homeowner with some extra space and a willingness to share, I highly recommend considering this option. It might just surprise you with its myriad benefits and the delightful experiences it brings into your life.
For any queries on renting out a room in your home for part of the week go to Getdigs.ie or email admin@getdigs.ie