Getting an apartment for the first time is an exciting prospect for many individuals. Living in your own apartment is often associated with new found independence and freedom; your first apartment is a place that you will remember for the rest of your life. However, with great freedom comes great responsibility.
There are many things that first time apartment renters should know about modern apartment living. There are rules for apartment living that may seem a little scary — the stereotypical crotchety landlord threatening to kick you out for being a day late on rent definitely can contribute to those anxieties. There are a lot of benefits of apartment living, however, so don’t let these irrational ideas for apartment living stop you from getting your first real apartment. Even in a small space, an apartment can easily become a home. Here are some tips and tricks to get you started.
Benefits of Apartment Living:
- The obvious appeal of an apartment, especially for young adults just stepping into the “real” world, is the financial element. In general, renting an apartment is cheaper than a mortgage. An apartment gives an individual the freedom to have their own space without a hefty mortgage looming over them. Apartment tenants living in small apartments also pay less for heating and cooling. You don’t need a huge loft if you’re living on your own.
- If you are absolutely useless at home repairs, you will most likely love living in an apartment. Repairs needed in your home are the responsibility of the landlord to pay for and to find someone to fix them. Common issues such as a backed-up toilet, broken dishwasher or air conditioning unit are supposed to be handled by your landlord, not you.
- If you live in an area that gets the full range of four seasons, you no longer have to worry about shoveling snow for hours or raking leaves. Apartment tenants are usually not responsible for tasks like these; the landlord hires someone or does the work themselves.
- Many apartment complexes are equipped with useful amenities including workout centers, pools, laundry services and convenience stores. If not on property, they are generally in pretty close proximity to your complex.
Ideas for Apartment Living in a Small Space:
- Multi-functional furniture is a must-have for any small apartment space. For example, storage ottomans can be used as both seating and as a convenient way to store small items. Colorful, patterned storage furniture can also add some brightness to a cramped space. Small apartments require less money to furnish.
- Clean your apartment regularly; you’d be surprised how much dust and dirt can get tracked in even in a small area. Luckily for you, small apartments are fairly easy and quick to clean. Keep a Swiffer handy and remember that there’s no bad time to vacuum.
Hopefully this article has given you some solid tips for small apartment living as well as some new ideas for apartment living that will help to make your apartment into your home!
Research more like this.