Room in a Calm, Friendly Home – Cat Lovers Essenti

Hello! I’m looking for a new lodger to share my home. I own the property and live here myself. I’m 42, female, and a secondary school teacher, so my weekdays tend to be early starts and long days. When I’m home, I like to unwind quietly – usually with the TV, a book, or my piano. I bake when I have the energy (mostly in the holidays), and in the warmer months you’ll often find me pottering around in the garden. I enjoy the occasional drink, but usually when I’m away visiting friends or family; home is very much my peaceful space. My parents visit every couple of months and stay in the guest room.

My current lodger is moving abroad after living here for a long time. We’ve always got on well, and although I’ll miss him, I’m excited for his next chapter. Because I’m generally busy, it’s important to me that home life stays calm, respectful, and low‑stress.

Who I’m Looking For
You must love cats
This is non‑negotiable. I have two gentle, timid five‑year‑old siblings who rule the house. They’re affectionate once they trust you, and they’re used to lots of attention. I need someone who is happy to look after them when I’m away for the occasional weekend or holiday, and to water the garden at those times too. In return, I offer a lower rent to reflect these responsibilities.

Employment & lifestyle
Full‑time employment is essential, with minimal working from home. This helps keep bills manageable and ensures we both get some quiet time when I’m off work.

I’m a non‑smoker and sensitive to smoke and strong scents, so I’m looking for someone who doesn’t smoke or vape and doesn’t use incense or recreational drugs.

Personality
As long as you’re considerate, tidy in shared spaces, and mindful that this is a shared home, I’m very easy‑going. I’ve lived with lots of different people over the past 12 years, and the only tricky situation was with someone very young who wasn’t used to sharing. So maturity and thoughtfulness go a long way.

The Room
A spacious double room at the back of the house, with two windows that bring in lovely mid‑morning sun. It’s quiet, away from the road and railway noise (you may feel the odd fast train, but I barely notice them now).

The room includes:

Double bed & mattress

Bedside table & lamp

Double wardrobe with drawers

Separate chest of drawers

Large desk & chair

Cube style shelving unit for books/storage

Full length mirror

There’s room for small additional furniture if you want to bring anything. Decor is warm and neutral, with both blinds and curtains. You’re welcome to put up pictures or rearrange furniture – just chat to me first so we can avoid any damage. I want you to feel at home here.

The House
Shared spaces include:

Upstairs bathroom with bath, basin, loo, and electric shower

Downstairs bathroom with loo, basin, and a powerful mains shower

Cosy sitting room with TV (Sky Essentials, Netflix, Prime)

Study/music room

Large kitchen‑diner

Small, sunny garden with seating

The neighbours are great – both sides are flats, one of which is usually empty as it’s a holiday home, and the others are very quiet.

Practical Bits
Parking: Free on‑street parking, though one side has weekday restrictions. Occasionally you may need to park on a nearby street.

Cycling: Secure bike storage in the back garden with a ground anchor and alleyway access.

Utilities:

Gas central heating with programmable timer

Combi boiler (on‑demand hot water)

Gas hob, electric oven, fully equipped kitchen

Sky full‑fibre 300 broadband (router under your room, extenders throughout)

Gas, electric, and water are metered, so bills may vary slightly depending on usage

Location
North Boscombe:

20 minutes’ walk to Bournemouth train station

10 minutes to Boscombe shopping centre and bus station

20 minutes to Boscombe Pier and the beach

If this sounds like the kind of home you’re looking for, come round for a cup of tea and a chat. It’s the best way to see if we get along.