Steve Lawes

Apartments vs Duplexes: The Pros and Cons of Each



Posted: Tuesday, September 12, 2006

by Steve Lawes
Apartments 911

They're are advantages and disadvantages to both styles of living. Some people will simply not live in an apartment. Other people can not or will not pay all the deposits. Everyone's needs are unique. There are many things offered by apartments that you cant find in a duplex and vice versa.

Apartment positives

Mostly maintenance free

Much lower move in and good incentives (specials)

Less expensive rent

Often newer, nicer, and more contemporary

Many more amenities pools, Jacuzzis, resident parties, etc

Lower utility bills

Pet friendly

Have 1 bedrooms

Flexible lease terms

Apartment Negatives:

No yard

No garage (many have garages... they are extra)

Neighbors on top of you, the crazy ones... not the nice ones

Harder to qualify

Not exactly a home

Duplex Positives:

Yard (that's huge)

Garage (that's huge)

Storage

Privacy

"Can" be easier to qualify in

Homey

Duplex Negatives:

Expensive to move in...high deposits, usually no specials

Higher and usually more utility bills, older HVAC

Higher pet deposits

If not professionally managed there could be problems!

12 month leases usually required

0 amenities

These are factors you should weigh before making your decision. Your lifestyle is a personal preference and there is no right answer, but it's always good to know what your walking into before you open the door. Good luck in your search and for questions concerning the leasing process go to http://www.apartments911.com
Steve Lawes, a licensed real estate agent and professional locator. Over the last five years, I have leased thousands of apartments, duplexes and town homes here in Austin,Texas. From premium properties with gorgeous views to rat holes on the wrong side of the bad side of town, and everything in between. Over the years I've watched countless people be denied housing, sometimes for the silliest of reasons! Usually, though, it's because they did not understand what apartments and landlords are actually looking for when they process your rental application. For any questions you may have concerning leasing, please feel free to visit my site http://www.apartments911.com
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