Considering there were around 45.2 million American renters in the second quarter of last year, it’s clear many people across the country rent rather than own their own homes.
For many Americans, renting is a way of life. It’s about affordability and flexibility. But if you’re in the market to rent a property, how do you decide whether to secure an apartment or a house? Both have advantages, although one might be more appropriate for you than the other.
There are several circumstances under which an apartment would be a better choice than a single-family dwelling.
Below are five signs you’ll be happier with apartment living compared to renting.
1. You Want to Lessen Maintenance Tasks
If the thought of mowing the lawn, fixing the fence, or cleaning out gutters makes you want to take aspirin, then apartment living is probably a better choice. Homes will have yards to maintain and more advanced systems—everything from plumbing to roofs—that will break and require fixing. Houses and apartments both typically have landlords who take care of serious repairs, but the plain fact is that a home will still require more effort for a renter.
Apartments, by contrast, are usually easier to maintain. Building staff often handle day-to-day concerns like snow removal, landscaping, or even replacing hallway lightbulbs. A property owner renting out an apartment will typically find a service provider nearby. So, they’ll retain the services of a Houston apartment property manager like GreenResidential for a Houston apartment.
Tenants are rarely asked to do more than keep their own unit clean. If simplicity and low stress appeal to you, apartment living wins.
2. You’re Focused on Saving Money
Price is perhaps the most important element of house-versus-apartment debates. Renting an apartment is usually cheaper in most locations than renting a house. Houses are more costly per month to rent because they offer more square footage, several bedrooms, and perhaps a yard or garage. Throw utilities into the mix, and the price gap can be considerable.
Apartments do use less energy, though. But since they’re typically smaller, they won’t require as much to heat and cool. Apartment complexes even tend to have utilities included in the rent, like water, trash, or the internet.
3. You Enjoy and Value Amenities and Perks
Renting a house means you have room and privacy—but not typically amenities. With an apartment building, however, amenities and perks can include exercise rooms, pools, rooftop decks, or shared office space. Some have package delivery storage, in-building laundry, or areas for social events. If you enjoy shared facilities and services, apartment rentals typically offer the best value per dollar.
4. You Prefer Urban Convenience
Apartments tend to be located in more urban, concentrated areas of town where what you need is within walking distance or a short drive. Markets, coffee shops, bus stops, and more tend to be just around the corner. If you like an active lifestyle and value convenience, apartment living may be for you.
Homes, on the other hand, tend to be more common in suburban or city regions. It might require a bit of a commute to get to where you need to be. If convenience, accessibility, and close proximity to school or work are important, an apartment is usually the better option.
5. Flexibility Is Important to You
Perhaps the greatest underappreciated advantage of apartment leasing is flexibility. Apartments are simpler to move into and simpler to move out of. Lease periods are generally shorter, and breaking a lease—although less than ideal—is often simpler than doing so in a house.
For those in transition—students, young professionals, or individuals downsizing—renting an apartment has its benefits.
Deciding between an apartment and a house is not always straightforward. But if you do know your needs and lifestyle, it will make it more obvious. Though homes do offer privacy and more space, they do so at a cost premium. Apartments are designed to be easy and functional, and that is why renters generally desire them.
Leasing an apartment rather than a house is not a compromise. It’s a choice. And for some, that choice means fewer headaches and more money in the bank.
