Living in an apartment can bring out the best and worst in neighbors. For one, you’re basically living in a shared space, sharing the same air, within hearing distance of one another. And yet, you expect a certain amount of privacy and freedom from all those interfering busybodies. There’s a fine line you’ll have to tread to make apartment living smooth and stress-free.
The first rule for apartment etiquette is also the Golden Rule: Do unto others what you will have them do unto you. If you expect good neighbors, then you should be one yourself. Follow the rules of your apartment building’s association. You knew when you moved-in that it’s strictly a pet-free environment, so what are you doing hiding your pet Chihuahua inside your flat? Following a few simple rules is not just good manners, it can also save you from an undesired eviction.
Image source: www.aboututila.com
Apartments are more preferred by more families since, unlike the condos, leasing or buying condominiums are offered in a higher rate. But in apartments, one’s practicality is seriously considered. It can be rented in a lower rate and it is applicable to those who can’t afford to spend a larger percent of their paychecks for shelter. Aparment prices really depends on how big the space is but commonly they usually size the apartment just enough for a family consisting of 5 members, the typica; family setting nowadays. Choose an apartment that really suits you. It is one way of compensating the worth of what you have paid. Also, pick an apartment that will offer you enough space for you, if you are just alone, or for your family. The location of the apartment is also a big factor to consider. If the place where you are living is safe and also the area that surrounds it.
Not everyone should buy a home. While most folks appreciate the stability in having their own real estate, some others are better geared towards renting or leasing, instead.
For instance, if you have a bad credit rating or credit report, then you’re not going to get a good interest rate on a home loan. If your FICO score is below 620, for instance, you would practically have to settle for interest rates by predatory lenders, which is not good.
If this is the case, fix your credit score first before applying for a loan! A few late payments are usually enough to have you disqualified from a loan, so watch out!
Also, if you have a high debt ratio, it might be best to lease or rent instead of going for a new loan. Consider your mortgage payment, plus taxes, divided by your monthly salary. And add that to your monthly debt payments, divided by your salary. A 50% debt ratio is high, and should make you reconsider going for that loan!
So you want to live in the city but not get too choked up in a skyscraper of a condo. You want great views and a lively neighborhood. Here are two choice condominiums in Seattle that have just that. Veer Lofts (left) in South Lake Union has 99 lofts from 624 to 1,067 sf with views of the city and the Space Needle. Units have floor to ceiling glass, energy efficient appliances and environmentally friendly paints and finishes. How about Hjärta (right) in Ballard, eight floors with 79 units over 6,000 sf of ground level retail space. It is also a green building, with rooftop gardens, water-conserving features and Energy Star rated appliances. Whichever you choose, you’ll love coming home.