For those who have rented both a house and aptmnts?

Question

is it better to rent a house, or did u enjoy living in an apt. complex?

Tell me ur experience, esp if u have kids.

Answer 1

renting a home cost more for the same amount of space...apartments are cheaper and usually utilities are included...you can go to apartmentguide.com and look for nice complexes in your area....they also let you look at the floor plans and ameneties.

-hbb

Answer 2

I hate apartment complexes. I usually rent from the smaller landlords who only have a couple units in a building. When you go to a big complex you tend to get a lot of noise and kids playing in the parking lot and it just becomes unsafe.

For the kids sake, I would rent a house or duplex. The downside is it will cost more since usually no utilities are included, but... at least you can have a backyard and more privacy.

Answer 3

I know there is a "bad" element pretty much anywhere you move.  It's been my experience that apartment complexes tend to be magnets for some less than desirable people.  When my children were much younger (under 5) I didn't have a problem being in a complex at all.  Once they were older and wanted to be a little more independent, I wasn't comfortable letting them out alone even if I could see them from the window.  I decided at that point to purchase a home.  I checked the crime stats, school system and s*x offender registry in several areas before deciding on one.  I don't have near the anxiety about them being outside playing now as before (they're 10 & 12 now).  I know bad things could happen in this neighborhood just as in an apartment complex so I do keep a close eye on them.  But,  I think the chances of them being harmed here are significantly reduced vs. being in an apartment.  I'm familiar with all of my neighbors and everyone tends to look out for one another (and kids) more than in apartments.  The transient nature of apartments makes this less possible.

Answer 4

A house is MUCH better, but comes with more responsibility - like cutting the grass and taking care of the yard.

Your electricity will most likely cost more, but there will be more room for your family.

Good luck!