Emma Watson shacks up

Emma Watson doesn’t need help with the rent, but she has a roommate nonetheless.

The “Harry Potter” actress bought a new property in London, which she is now sharing with financier Jay Barrymore. She was first linked to Barrymore, 26, about 16 months ago after meeting him at an awards ceremony (that would before or just after the 19-year-old was officially legal goods).

“Emma’s off to university in America soon but was determined to put some roots down in England first,” said a source close to the actress.

“Her relationship with Jay is going from strength to strength. They are spending increasing amounts of time with one another. It makes perfect sense for Jay to leave some of his stuff at hers and see how it goes. So far, so good – and Emma’s confident they’ll stay together even when she’s abroad.”

Watson lives close to her father and has decided that putting some of her $17 million into property is a good investment.

The source added to Britain’s Daily Mirror newspaper: “Despite the fame, she’s really got her head screwed on. After consulting with several property experts, as well as her family and friends, she’s decided to invest in her own place.

“It’s a North London townhouse and it’s just a stone throw from her dad Chris’ house. So she can see him whenever she wants.”