One of the most common questions people ask themselves when they plan a relocation is the question of where to live. Even though there are only two options available, this topic requires some serious contemplation. This is not surprising considering the wide array of factors to take into consideration when choosing an apartment or home. Luckily for you, we have decided to invest some time in the research in order to help you to make the best possible decision. The choice will ultimately come down to your personal taste, but take a look at what we have prepared for you. So grab some drinks and snacks and let’s dive into the matter.
Apartment vs home in terms of costs
This is probably one of the most significant factors for most people. The first question that you need to ask yourself is are you going to buy the property or rent it? While the latter option certainly gives you more freedom and flexibility, owning a property is always a better choice in the long run. That way you know that you are investing in something of your own, something that you will pass on to the generations to come.
Some of the financial advances of having a house:
- You don’t need to pay a rent
- You can invest in repairs according to your budget
Some of the financial advances of having a flat:
- Smaller bills in general
- Lower rent fees
- Repair costs are transferred to the owner
- Less money spent on gas and public commute
- Lower maintenance costs
Flats are smaller than full-scale houses and thus friendlier for your wallet. Less surface area translates to lower heating and cooling costs. Ideal for people who plan on living alone such as university students. Living in a flat is much more cost efficient than having a stand-alone house in terms of repair costs as well. Do you need plumbing services or electrician? You have a crumbling wall or your doorbell is not working? Your job is just to call the renting agency and they will fix it for you. On the other hand, living in a flat does not give you the amount of freedom characteristic for a house.
Lifestyle is a key factor when choosing between home and flat
What you must take into consideration when you are choosing your living area are your habits. If you plan on living alone flat is a better option for you because it is more cost efficient. Also, flats are usually closer to the city center and all the major happenings. If you love the urban hustle, nightclubs, and fast lifestyle, the apartment is ideal for you. Furthermore, why would you spend your money on bus fees and gas bills when you can pick an apartment which is in walkable distance from your work? On the other hand, homes are much better suited for families with kids. You have your own backyard for your kids to play in, separate rooms for everybody, peaceful and quiet environment, guaranteed parking space.
What is more secure, apartment or home?
The truth is that flats provide their residents with extra safety compared to houses. There are several reasons for this: First of all flats are located in busy city streets, and it is, therefore, more complicated for thieves to go unnoticed. Also, buildings have several entrances, intercoms, surveillance cameras and even security guards in some cases. It is easier to break into houses located in the outskirts, and the only safety parameter that homeowners have is to choose their neighborhood based on the crime rates. But even if you live in a fancy neighborhood house is much more susceptible to robbery than a flat.
Apartment or home in terms of flexibility
Owning a house gives you an unrivaled sense of freedom. You can choose your own furniture, you can pick any color you like for your walls, you can even reconstruct the place if you wish, and all that according to your budget. If you are living in a flat you will pretty much need approval for any change you would like to make. If you have a cat or a dog you will be much better suited in the house, especially because some landlords are not very approving of our little furry friends. Privacy is a very valuable commodity today and in this scenario, the house offers a clear advantage. You won’t have to worry about those noisy neighbors shouting or playing loud music. On the other hand, if you move a lot, you should know that it is more convenient to relocate an apartment than a house.
Some additional observations
Apartments also come with a broad spectrum of amenities which could make your life quite easier and save you some cash:
- Security system
- Swimming pool
- State of the art fitness center
- Laundry facility
- Bicycle storage unit
- Electric car charging stations
- Tennis courts
House owners always win in situations where it comes to supplementary storing space. Basements, attics, wine cellars, garage units, this list is pretty much endless.
Your income, your lifestyle and your plans for the future will be the key aspects to make this tricky decision. When you do settle with one option you must turn to reliable partners to help you with the relocation process. If you are searching for such assistance take a look at A&C Brothers Moving & Storage and check out their services. So there you go, these are some of the most important factors to know when deciding whether to live in an apartment or house. Your quality of life largely depends on your living space, so in that regard, we hope that this article will help you to make a wise decision.