Speed Roomies: This event strives to match Vancouverites with the ideal housemate

Speed Roomies brings people together in Vancouver who are looking for a room in a shared space with people who have a free room in their home.

Speed Roomies brings people together in Vancouver who are looking for a room in a shared space with people who have a free room in their home, Photo: Speed Roomies Photo: Speed Roomies

If you feel decidedly anxious about selecting your next roommate, you aren't alone.

Not only will this person(s) share your home, but they'll also become a part of your daily life - whether you like it or not.

So, if you're feeling apprehension about plucking someone off Craigslist (who isn't), than you might want to check out a new roommate meeting event that's coming to Vancouver.

Run by organizer Greg Wheeler, Speed Roomies brings people together who are looking for a room in a shared space with people who have a free room in their home. Rather than a 'speed dating' format - where people rattle off a two-minute elevator pitch and move to the next person - Wheeler describes the event as a 'mixer.' In other words, you'll be able to casually mingle with other prospective roomies, and there aren't any restrictions.

Wheeler has been running the event in London and Toronto, and saw a great opportunity for it in Vancouver.

"We all know how problematic the rental market in Vancouver has become," explains Wheeler.

"In a city with rising housing prices, having roommates is becoming more attractive if not a necessary option to make ends meet in this city. This event helps people with that."

How will the event work?

Upon arrival, you'll be given a sticker - if you're seeking a room you'll get a 'room seeker' sticker, and if you are accepting a roommate into your home you'll receive a 'room haver. The idea then is to go and meet as many people as you can with the other colour sticker, to see if you guys hit it off and become roommates.

Of course, guests should also mingle with people who have the same colour sticker. If they don't meat a suitable 'room haver,' then they can potentially link up with other 'room seekers' and rent a place.

The event takes place on Dec. 10 at The Pint Public House and tickets are available online.

Photo: Speed Roomies