Moving from a house to an apartment – pros and cons

In recent years, many people choose to downsize to an apartment. While this may be due to their financial situation, there are many other reasons for moving from a house to an apartment. For example, some people want to move out of a smaller town or the suburbs to the city. A job opportunity or simply the need for a change can be great motivators. However, there are many things to consider. Even though apartments have their benefits, there are also some downsides to apartment living. Here is a guide on all the positive and negative sides of moving from a house and into an apartment.

Pros of moving from a house to an apartment

You can save more money by living in an apartment

One of the biggest perks of living in an apartment is that you will save more money. Bills and utilities usually cost less, including electricity, heating, cooling, and water. Additionally, if you share the apartment with someone, you can split the rent and the bills for an even cheaper living.

Furthermore, there are ways in which you can save money before and during the move. Make sure to take full advantage of these tips in order to spend the money on things you really need or enjoy.

Maintenance is taken care of

Living in an apartment means that you only have to take care of your own space. You will be grateful come winter when someone else is shoveling the snow in front of the building. Moreover, when something breaks or stops working in your apartment, you can all the superintendent or the person in charge of maintenance. You don’t have to pay the high prices of private repairmen.

Don’t think about mowing your lawn when you move into an apartment.

You will feel more secure in an apartment

Many apartment buildings have security guards in the front hall. They prevent any unwanted guests from entering the building. Even if there isn’t a guard, almost every building has an intercom where each person has to buzz. That creates a sense of security that you would not have in a house. Finally, your neighbors are much closer to you if you live in an apartment. So they are more likely to know if something is wrong and if you need help.

Experience amenities by moving from a house to an apartment

Modern apartment complexes offer different kinds of extra services for their residents. There are amenities such as laundry service, a gym, a pool, parking, even a communal barbecue. You will learn that you actually save money by having all of these perks right in your building. Additionally, it’s a great way to meet your neighbors and even make new friends.

No landlords to deal with

When you rent a house, you have to keep in touch with your landlord quite often. Your stay in the house can depend on their whims and changes of heart. In a building, however, you are much more likely to be protected from this type of behavior. Especially if there is some type of tenants association, your rights will come first.

Cons of moving from a house to an apartment

Rules are more strict

If you own your house, you know the benefits of the freedom you have. You can decorate your house however you like, paint the walls and put it hardwood floors. When you are renting an apartment, however, there are some rules which you simply have to follow. For example, many complexes don’t allow pets in their apartments. Additionally, you will have to keep your parties to a minimum and not make noise during the night hours. Before you move, think whether these rules are something you can get on board with.

Consider if you will be able to accept all the rules that go with apartment living.

Less privacy than in a house

When you move to an apartment, you have to prepare yourself for the lack of privacy. Your building might have walls that are not very thick. This means that you will hear your neighbors, and they will hear you. Moreover, you might feel like someone is tracking your comings and goings. You should consider if this is something you can get used to.

Your apartment will be smaller than a house

While there are penthouses and vast lofts for a price, you will more likely be moving into an apartment that is smaller than your current house. Less space also means that you will have to get rid of some of your belongings, for example selling it online or in person. This is a difficult task, especially if your items have sentimental value. For this reason, always measure your new home before planning what to take with you.

A parking space is not guaranteed

Some apartment complexes offer parking among their amenities. However, this is not always the case. You might have to find street parking blocks away. This is especially a problem if you are moving to a big city, such as New York City. One of the biggest pros of living in a house is that you are able to park in front of it or even have a garage. You will be giving up this advantage by moving from a house to an apartment.

If you own a car, the logistics of parking might not be handled in the best way when you live in an apartment.

Entertaining can be a challenge in an apartment

If you are someone who enjoys hosting parties, an apartment is not the right choice for you. The limited space means less people can comfortably sit or mingle. You need to have room for everyone to enjoy themselves, and not have to stand in one place with their drink in hand. Moreover, if you enjoy having dinners with a lot of people, you should know that you might not even have a dining room. Many apartments only have kitchens with a small table and a few chairs. You should take your social life into account when considering this move.

Consider the good and the bad

Moving can be a great choice for you. However, you need to consider your needs and options first. It’s not a decision that you should make lightly, so take the time you need to prepare. Do your own research and talk to your friends and family before moving from a house to an apartment. Finally, be happy with the choice you made. You are more likely to enjoy your new life if you keep a positive attitude throughout.