second thoughts about where to live

iVillage Member
Registered: 05-06-2002
second thoughts about where to live
10
Mon, 10-11-2004 - 1:08pm

Ok so I made decision on apartment complex last week -- that is located 5 minutes from my work. It has tons of ammenities that come with it. BUT there is a couple downfalls with the actual apartment it self - its small and I can tell the heat will be an issue because when I went to look at it I was sweating BIGTIME-- plus there isnt a washer /dryer in the unit and I have problems with my right leg (numbness and nerve damage due to a severed nerve) and going up and down stairs with laundry is dangerous for me (its down 2 floors) Plus there isnt a garage and Im in Minnesota and its sucky to have to clean off your car in the winter! I chose this place because of the closeness to my work and the clubhouse ammenities but the actual apartment is sucky....also as I have said its 45-60 minute drive from freinds /family and my boyfreind.


This is such a stressful thing my good ness and you would think at age 32 I have done this but I havent-- this is my first time ever having to decide where to live. I moved from my parents home directly into the house I am in now and that was really decided for me.


There is just so many options to consider and I want it to feel right in every way-- is that possible? Anyone have advice for me?

Avatar for cl_beckty
iVillage Member
Registered: 03-20-2003
Mon, 10-11-2004 - 2:59pm

MB, the only thing I can think to tell you is make a list of "absolutes" and a list of "would LIKE to have's" and start searching apartments/homes based on that. And don't settle for anything till you find what you've been looking for. You'll just end up angry and frustrated half way through your lease if you jump too quickly.


DH and I moved this spring. It took us FOREVER to settle on something, and that was how we did it. We couldn't find anythign that made us both happy, so we finally sat down and made those two lists above.


The ones on the MUST have list from me were more numerous than his must have's. LOL



  1. Must have washer and dryer in apartment
  2. Complex must have good pool and fitness center
  3. Must have good modern working kitchen as I cook.
  4. Must have floorplan that separates two bedrooms by at least one other room. ;

After that we wanted two bathrooms (that was almost on the must have's list) and we wanted a garage (didn't get that) and we wanted a different area, but we didn't get that. And we wanted a great deck/patio. We HAVE a

Becky

 

 

iVillage Member
Registered: 10-18-2003
Mon, 10-11-2004 - 3:30pm

I had a slightly easier time of house shopping.

Kim

iVillage Member
Registered: 12-19-2002
Mon, 10-11-2004 - 5:38pm

Hi MB, it sounds like a big complex.

iVillage Member
Registered: 05-25-2004
Mon, 10-11-2004 - 6:54pm
Did you already sign the contract? If not, then reconsider. If so then you are stuck and will have to make the best of it.

I would choose indoor laundry and garage.

iVillage Member
Registered: 04-02-2003
Mon, 10-11-2004 - 7:40pm
That sounds like more than a couple of downfalls. Amenities are great, but you aren’t going to live in them. You are going to live in your apartment. You should really rethink this. Decide what is most important to you and make a list of the things you must have. Unless decreasing your commute is more important, you should look around within a 15 to 20-mile radius. I’m sure you’ll find something better you can live with and afford. It’s a renter’s market right now.

Also, have you looked at private houses or condos for rent? Those usually come with washer/dryer, garage, and more stable neighbors.

Does the complex have a 1st floor apartment or an elevator available for your use?

iVillage Member
Registered: 05-06-2002
Tue, 10-12-2004 - 10:09am

Well yesterday I only worked 1/2 day because I was feeling anxious about the whole thing and actually it worked out pretty well.


I found a place that has the positives I want-- its closer to friends and family- great neighborhood -

Avatar for myprecioustwo
iVillage Member
Registered: 04-08-2003
Tue, 10-12-2004 - 10:20am
I agree with Maggie on checking within the apartment before you checking out further commutes to work and larger rent you can't afford. Remember, you should try and find something, so that you have a buffer in hard times. If your worried about credit now, think about what it might turn out if you are stuck in a nice apartment and can't pay the bills! I would start out on a small scale, look within this complex for a lower level with easy laundry access and then put money on the side and move again down the goal when you are better situated.
Avatar for cl_beckty
iVillage Member
Registered: 03-20-2003
Tue, 10-12-2004 - 11:20am

Hey, Congrats on the new car! How exciting!!!!


I hope this new place works out for you. I hate being strapped. But if it's what you really need/want then maybe it'll be worth the cost to you.

Becky

Becky

 

 

iVillage Member
Registered: 05-06-2002
Tue, 10-12-2004 - 11:25am

Ok more new news--


iVillage Member
Registered: 12-19-2002
Wed, 10-13-2004 - 10:35am
Congrats on your new home, MaryBeth!