As condos are growing in popularity, some people are wondering if they are a better living arrangement than renting an apartment. While both have great aspects, it depends largely on the preferences of the people moving. Consider all benefits before deciding which is best for way to go.

Buying Condos

One of the major benefits to buying a condo is the amenities included in a complex that other living arrangements don't have. For instance, having a pool is a great way to cool off on hot summer days. By only having to share the pool with others in the complex you enjoy a private pool without all of the work. Family can visit to enjoy the sun and water with you, without having to go into public. Near by is usually a park and playground, so even if the sun isn't hot enough for swimming, you're still close to outside entertainment all the time.

For entertainment purposes social activities are often planned, there may be dinners, dances, classes, or shows provided. This allows the community of the complex to get together, get to know one another, and have fun. Some condos have health clubs too. With exercise equipment, classes and trainers it's easy to enjoy the professionalism of a gym without having to leave home.

Security is another benefit of owning a condo, many places offer dedicated parking as well as a doorman. Owners can rest assured that no one will enter the building without permission, and that their vehicle is safe from those who don't live in the complex. Maintenance is almost always available from right inside the complex. If you do experience any problems with plumbing, electricity, air conditioning, etc, someone can help almost immediately.

The benefits of home owning are a great aspect of buying condos. Decorating the walls however you want, not having to worry about nail holes and what color to paint with is all decided by the owner. You can install carpets, linoleum, hard wood flooring, etc, without having to get permission from anyone else. Of course, taking care of the new installation is your responsibility, but it's nice to be able to decorate based on your own preferences.

Renting Apartments

There are some great benefits for renting or leasing as well. Getting an apartment usually means a lot less responsibility for the tenant, and that alone means a lot less stress. An apartment is taken care of by the owner so, if something goes wrong, the owner is responsible to make sure it is fixed.

Landlords are in charge of having maintenance people come in and fix sinks, plumbing, electricity, furnaces, etc within a timely manner, as a matter of law. While they may have to hunt around to find someone to fix a problem, just call the landlord and your work is done.

Renting is much more flexible than buying too. While there might be a lease involved, past that the tenant can move out whenever they want. It costs less to move in too, it might be required to put down your first and last months rent with a security deposit, but when moving out you get the security deposit back. If retiring or moving again is in the near future, leasing is a great option that won't leave you tied down to a specific location.

Deciding Where to Move

It's always a good idea to look into all of your options when you have to move. While condos are a great way to own, and enjoy less responsibility, renting allows a lot of flexibility in future moving options. Consider the benefits that mean most to you, and choose the option that best mirrors those benefits so you are happiest in your new home.