With major cities across the world reporting record population growth, many are turning towards high-density living for housing solutions. But with apartments, flats and units offering limited space, many families might turn towards townhouses or single dwellings.
So, is it possible to live in an apartment as a family? Here are the pros and cons we’ve identified.
Pros
Proximity
Living in an apartment means you can live closer to the city and city centre. That makes access to healthcare, education and work much easier, limiting commuting time and the use of a car. Proximity to services can also cut down on costs of commuting and those associated with owning a car.
Low maintenance
Living in an apartment means there is less to worry about when it comes to maintaining the condition of the property. There are no gardens to maintain and lawns to mow. If you’re renting, maintenance is usually out of your hands and placed in those of the owner. Not only does this save you money, it also saves you time and frees up your weekends.
More affordable
In most cases, apartments are more affordable to purchase and to keep running compared to houses. This is because apartments are a lot smaller. Heating and cooling an apartment will cost less than heating or cooling an entire house. Apartments often include extra amenities like a gym or pool so you don’t have to spend extra money visiting one.
Family time
Families with young children will be able to spend more time together as space in an apartment is limited. Between individual bedrooms and the living and dining rooms, there’s not much extra space.
Cons
Space
The biggest factor to consider with apartment living is the space. As families grow older, space becomes a big factor. Teenagers often want a room to themselves, and during times of exams and study, it can be difficult for them to find a quiet space. Although apartments might be fine when the children are young, it might not be a long-term solution.
Shared spaces
In some apartments, washing machines and dryers are not in the individual apartments but are shared with the floor or in some cases, the entire building. This might become a hassle for working families with less time to go downstairs to do the washing. Driveways and sometimes parking can also be shared, making it difficult to negotiate with the neighbours.
Pets
Many rentals do not allow pets, but if you own the apartment, space is once again a factor. Dogs need space to move around, preferably outside. Although some pets can handle apartment living, others may struggle. It’s important to do your research before bringing a pet home.
Noise
Noise is a factor you’ll have to learn to live with. Whether you’re made to put up with noise the neighbours are making, or your own family are producing noise the neighbours aren’t happy with. You can say goodbye to playing your drum kit at 6am in the morning. You might also have to deal with neighbours who smoke. Some apartments might be completely smoke-free while others allow residents to smoke on their balconies.
