Making that step and taking the decision to move house can be a stressful one but, if you ask yourself the right questions beforehand, it can become easier than expected.
One of the biggest questions people ask themselves, and clients ask us all the time, is “what type of house do I want to live in?”
For some it’s an instant decision but for others it becomes a process of elimination. In this case we’re looking at the pros of apartments and apartment living.
If you’re thinking about moving into an apartment hopefully the points below will make your decision easier and clarify some thinking before any potential viewings.
Lack of Maintenance
For many lack of maintenance issues and costs can represent a massive positive for apartment living.
Due to the nature of apartment buildings much of the maintenance will simply be handled by a building management team, leaving owners free of the hassle that most home owners have to deal with on a weekly or monthly basis.
Security
Security can be seen as a major pro for apartments as they’re generally very secure due to the main building only being accessed via code or key before anyone can ever attempt to enter individual apartments. This, and the proximity of neighbours, can create a much more secure environment than most regular houses.
Privacy
Privacy is obviously a major factor for everyone and one positive for apartments is that, due to the nature of apartment buildings, you’re unlikely to have privacy issues as apartments are generally accessed via one door with windows facing out above ground level.
It’s also common for many apartments to be situated away from, or just off, main roads meaning you’re unlikely to ever have trouble with random passersby or unusual traffic.
Running Costs
Every property, no matter what style, will have its own costs in various shapes and forms and apartments are no different.
However, many apartment complexes charge a fixed maintenance fee which covers all possible issues including security systems, amenities such as heating and lighting, painting and the cleaning of communal areas as well as general communal garden maintenance, external painting and window cleaning.
This one fixed fee can be a huge positive for many buyers as it allows for easier budgeting and peace of mind that everything will consistently be taken care of.
Sense of Community
Apartment buildings, by their very nature, bring people closer together much more so than normal streets or houses ever do.
As a result you can build up a brilliant sense of community amongst neighbours, which only adds to the quality of life and security within the building.
Ideal for First Time Buyers, Investors and Downsizing
The last pro we’d like to highlight is that an apartment can represent a great opportunity for so many different buyers and situations in life.
For first time buyers an apartment can represent a manageable step into the world of property and home-ownership without diving off the deep end. For investors it represents a hassle-free opportunity to own highly rentable properties in desirable areas.
At the other end of the spectrum apartments can also represent the perfect opportunity for current home owners to downsize and give up the responsibilities, costs and maintenance that comes with a bigger home.
What Next?
If you’re still unsure of what would best suit your own personal situation you can get in touch by clicking here. We’re happy to offer experienced advice wherever possible.
If you’ve made your decision and are ready to move forward you can view our listings and new builds here.
