Neighbors Lena and Birgitta moved in together – saving money

Lena Forselius, 71, and Birgitta Johansson, 73, lived in the same stairwell when they got to know each other and became friends. Their rents were raised and then the neighbors decided to move in together. Now they save thousands every month.

– I had an epiphany one evening, says Lena.

It started with Birgitta moving into the apartment opposite Lena. They started greeting when they were going out with their dogs. The greetings led to dog walks, which in turn led to coffee and dinners. Eventually they hung out every day. One evening, Lena had an epiphany.

– Finally, when the rents became expensive, we said that we might be able to move in together, says Lena.

And so it became. Then they lived in Enköping, but now they have moved to a three-room apartment in Kalmar. They live there together with their three dogs, Frasse, Assar and Stina.

They saved more money when they lived in Enköping, but they don’t regret the move.

– We have a better view and we feel much better down here, says Birgitta.

Lena agrees.

– We are having a great time and we don’t regret a day that we moved, she says.

The friends finish each other’s sentences

Lena and Birgitta agree that the best thing about living together is not having to feel worried.

– You know there is someone here. If I were to get sick, for example, Birgitta could go out with my dog, says Lena.

– And on the contrary, Lena can go out with my dogs, interjects Birgitta.

The friendship still lasts and they don’t get on each other’s nerves. They share the chores. Birgitta puts in the dishwasher and Lena takes out. They say they never argue.

– We are still friends after four years, says Lena.

If someone else would be interested in doing the same thing, moving in with their neighbor and friend, Lena and Birgitta’s best advice is to let go of all their musts and principles. They also suggest trying it out to see how it feels first.

– You can always move apart, says Lena.

– Yes, you have to try too, says Birgitta.