There are people who love living in apartments, and then there are those who hate the idea. It is a matter of personal choice, but if we take the emotion out of the issue and look at both sides of the issue, what do we get?
An apartment gives you the ability to just lock up and go and know that your property is secure, but you will have to adhere to body corporate rules.
Debbie Mathieson of Seeff Umhlanga gives a roundup of the pros and cons of apartment living.
Positive aspects of apartment living include the following:
1. Lock-up and go
You can literally lock your doors, go on your holiday and be confident in the knowledge that your home is secure.
2. Easy to maintain
No more painting of the exterior, no more gardening and no more pool maintenance. All of that is taken care of by the body corporate or managing agents. The cost is generally covered by your body corporate levy.
3. Your space does not have to be limited
If finance allows, you can choose to live in a large apartment. For example, Seeff Umhlanga have apartments for sale that are up to 750sqm in size, so you have all the benefits without compromising on your comforts.
However, a smaller apartment can be as much of an advantage to some, for example, when you are ‘downsizing’ you want to simplify your life, clean out those cupboards, and do without the 10-seater dining room table.
4. Close to amenities
Most apartment buildings are within close proximity of shops and restaurants.
What are potential negative aspects?
1. Nosey and interfering neighbours
You could also experience this when you live in a house, but the proximity involved in apartment living does exacerbate this issue.
2. Rules and regulations
Most sectional title schemes have codes of conduct that residents need to adhere to. Some apartment blocks are worse than others in this regard, so choose carefully. You want a well-run building, but nothing can be more off-putting than stepping into an elevator with signs telling you what you can and cannot do.
3. Privacy and noise
This is something you do have to compromise on in an apartment building. However, if you are respectful and considerate of your neighbours, hopefully they will treat you similarly.
4. No-pet policies
Many apartment buildings do not allow pets. This is a big problem for pet owners, and would rule out apartment living as an option for them.
Finally
In the end, whether you choose to live in an apartment or a house, it is a lifestyle choice based on personal preferences.
