Apartments vs. Townhouses: Which Is Right for You?

Comparing Single- and Multi-Bedroom Apartments

Apartment communities have one-, two- and three-bedroom units. Choosing one over the other depends on whether you’re living alone or with a roommate and how much square footage you need to feel comfortable.

Generally, one-bedroom apartments are less expensive than multi-bedroom units and the utilities are likely to be lower as it takes less energy to power the space. You’ll also have more privacy.

Two- and three-bedroom apartments tend to cost less per square foot, especially if you’re budgeting with a roommate. Living with someone splits the responsibility of buying groceries, doing chores and paying utilities.

 

Benefits of Renting an Apartment

Lower rent: Depending on the location and features, apartment living is a cost-effective option whether you have roommates or not.

Maintenance: There are benefits to having an onsite management team. They maintain apartment facilities and grounds, so you don’t have to worry about upkeep.

Amenities: Your apartment community may have a pool, onsite fitness center, outdoor entertainment areas and other free amenities.

 

What to Expect When Renting a Townhouse

A townhouse is a multi-story residence that shares a wall with another unit. They usually have garages and outdoor areas. Townhouses have more space and privacy since bedrooms are often on the second floor. Some townhouses have multiple bedrooms so you can live with a roommate.

 

Advantages of Renting a Townhouse

More space: Townhouses offer room for dining and entertaining on the first floor, keeping bedrooms separate upstairs.

Neighborhood living: You’ll enjoy a more suburban living experience when you rent a townhouse. Units are clustered in close-knit communities and often located in residential areas.

Amenities: Like apartments, you have access to a community pool and fitness center.

Privacy: Townhouses aren’t part of a large complex, so you’ll have fewer neighbors and more privacy.

Pets: The size and layout of townhouses could be more conducive to renting with a pet and there may be fewer breed and weight restrictions.

 

6 Ideas for Your Spare Room

Even if you don’t have a roommate, you may want extra space. Here are some suggestions for a spare room:

Guest room: Your family and friends can sleep in a bed instead of on your living room couch.

At-home office: Create a place that’s free of distractions to work from home or study.

Art studio or craft room: Design a room to inspire your creativity and keep your apartment organized. A craft room is a good spot if you sell your work and need to manage inventory.

Yoga or fitness room: Whether you want to practice yoga or do an at-home workout in your apartment, an extra room is a good place to get started.

Game room: Ping pong, foosball, board games, a miniature basketball hoop – all those items can turn a spare bedroom into your dream game room.

Pet room: Keep food, toys, litterboxes, cat trees, scratch posts and pet beds out of your living area.

 

Ardent Communities has a variety of rental spaces to help you find your apartment or townhouse in Columbus, Ohio. Contact us to learn more about our communities.