Searching the web myself I've only come across primarily negative
articles when it comes to the topic of living together before
marriage, I can't find one that spends much focus on the positive
aspects of this type of cohabitation.  This seems really odd to me
considering the large number of couples that "shack up" nowadays. 
Please provide links to good articles stating the benefits of living
together before marriage.  Preferably ones that provide facts and
sources and speak more positively about living together before
marriage than not.

I began researching your question, but gave up when I decided that you
probably answered it yourself already.

"I can't find one that spends much focus on the positive aspects of
this type of cohabitation."

This appears to speak volumes.

Yes, I know what I want to do.  My parents are giving me a hard time
about my decision and I'm trying to find something positive to show
them.