Boarders - two questions

I would go with an exchange student, you can learn so much from them.

We're thinking of doing the same thing Teresa (to bulk up the TTC #2 budget).

We're looking at a mature student as I've heard that if you get an under 18 person, you end up being their responsible guardian

I wonder if there is a website or guideline for how much you can charge for the room (like per m2) and based on the amenities in the house and local area (like libraries and public transport)?

Yep you are responsible if they are under 18.

Things you might need to think about is that generally foreign students expect you to do everything for them (cook, clean etc), spend ages in the bathroom, can be difficult to communicate your house rules with, and sometimes don't socialise much. If you get one that loves kids though then it will be great for them.

We have three (english speaking - but different cultures) boarders, two boys and a girl. The boys are definitely a bit of a nightmare when it comes to being clean. But they are social and easy to communciate with if there is a problem.

We charge between $100-130 depending on the size of the room. But your location might play a role too.

Two Blondinis wrote: I've heard horror stories from mates you have had female teenage students - double the water & power bills and mysterious calls to China but no one knows who racked up the $700 phone bill That's why we want a "mature" student and will definitely get a toll bar on the phone! lol Helen, where did you find our students? Did you use an agency or a website?

There are definitely mature students out there and they are pretty easy to "look after" so to speak. My mum has had a few Japanese students over the years one of which was a 20 something year old who was pregnant and just wanted an OE before the baby came along (smart woman!). They have all been really lovely and polite and no problems with dodgy phone calls etc haha

My brother who lives in Japan actually arranged my mum's students through his english academy. And the bonus is they are already learning english so you don't have to struggle speaking to them! I could always ask him if he has anyone "mature" looking to come to NZ if you want Toni?

i would go student more money........we foster kids and you dont do it for money......cause you dont get any......wat you do get is all for them and there isnt any left over......you dont have enough for nappies so quite often you are paying out of your own money...same goes for the older kids......... we had a student from korea and you end up with so much knowledge and there so fun.........really good if you have kids they learn so much from eachother :)

We got ours from Trademe.

That is true about the foreign students, you know they will leave eventually (if you have problems).

lol