How much rent should I pay living in my girlfriends house, if her mortgage is $1600?

[Thomas W]

She is requesting that I pay half, but she emphasizes it is her house and until there is an official long term commitment, I do not want to be part of the investing in the house, I just want to contribute as if I was a renter.

[Galen B]

She should rent to you with a contract as with any other roommate and charge you the going rate. If you are getting full use of the house, you should pay the going rate. Can you find a rent for $800? You should also pay half the utilities , groceries...If what she asks is unacceptable, Find a place to live.

Forget playing the "I don't want to invest in the house" game, you aren't. You will have to pay rent most anywhere, as you should want to do. She has a mortgage, taxes, insurance, utilities and maintenance to pay. It is also her good credit that bought the house.

You should also continue to pay, even with the long term commitment. If...If you get married, then you would be wise to still contribute.

The odds are one of you will get annoyed with the other, and you will split. Keeping the rental agreement on a professional level will make it easier for you to move. You both will have an understanding of what is expected. Do not get into a vindictive pissing contest.