...THOSE TRICKY QUESTIONS YOU JUST HAVE TO ASK

1. SPEND time discussing your rules and seeking solutions. If you argue at this early stage, communal living probably isn’t for you. 2. Perhaps rent together first to try it out before you buy. 3. Listen to your children. If they object, don’t be hurt. It’s because they care about you, and also they don’t want to be faced with complex probate issues when you die. 4. Bring one ‘must’ to the agreement, it could be your cat, an art studio, piano etc. 5. Make sure you have enough money to live on — you’ll be buying outright if you’re no longer working.

6. Draw up a proper legal agreement. Find a good lawyer and make sure that they explain the complicated legal terms to everyone’s satisfaction. 7. Discuss whether you want to do up an old wreck, or move into a pristine interior. 8. If you’re selling houses, make sure you all complete together and use the same removal company when you move in. 9. Make sure that you each have an en-suite bathroom. And share a cleaner. 10. If you don’t have a strong opinion about something — such as whether you want a dishwasher — then stay out of the discussion.