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What Do You Want In an Apartment?
Everyone is different when it comes to renting an apartment. There are amazing amenities that apartments can have, and the more amenities that an apartment offers, the higher the price. When you are renting on your own in Washington DC, you have to decide on what area you want to live in. Do you want to be closer to your favorite restaurants and shops? Or is it more important to you to live in a quiet area? When it comes to your actual apartment, what do you want for space? Do you want to rent a one bedroom or a studio? Continue reading to decide between these two apartment options.
#1 Space
Generally, a one-bedroom apartment is going to have more space than a studio apartment. There are, however, some very spacious studio apartments. Extra square footage could cost you more monthly in rent. Savvy apartment seekers consider apartments such as the Kiley Apartments because of their space options and also because of its fabulous location. If you enjoy entertaining, a one-bedroom gives you the option of having your items in a room that is out of sight from your guests. At the same time, if you have a spacious studio apartment and you know how to decorate and hide things well, you can accommodate the items in your apartment when your friends come over. Whether you are renting a one-bedroom or a studio, the larger your apartment, the more expensive it will be.
#2 Privacy
With a one-bedroom apartment, you can have a separate space that is just for you when guests come. Your guests can stay in the living room, and you can stay in your separate bedroom. If privacy from guests is not a concern for you, then you would likely be just as happy with a studio apartment. In a studio apartment, if you are concerned with separation, then you could separate areas on your own using bookshelves, makeshift walls, sheets, or dividers. It will take a little bit more work, but you can make it happen if it is worth it to you.
#3 Location
Know the general region you want to live in. Where you live will affect your safety, your social life, and your overall happiness in your apartment. Added to that, the location of your apartment can affect your travel costs, and also it can add or take away time from your day if you live far from your place of work. Some of the most social and fun places to live are also some of the most expensive. You may prefer to have a one-bedroom apartment in a hip spot, but the price tag may be too high. On the other hand, you may find the perfect location, but there may only be a studio apartment available. Location is a key factor when searching for apartments.
#4 Price
There is no way to get around the importance of price. Generally, the price of your apartment should only be about 30% of your monthly income. To save yourself from becoming house-poor, make sure to stay within your budget. House-poor means that you have a nice place to live, but you don’t have money to do anything but pay the bills. You have to be reasonable. Even if you prefer a one-bedroom apartment, if a studio is more affordable, and it is in an area that you love, go for the studio. If you are set on a one-bedroom apartment, and you are on a budget, then you may be a little further from amenities and your place of work. Another option would be to pick up more hours at work to afford your apartment. It all depends on what your priorities are.
The Choice is Yours
There are pros and cons to living in a studio and to living in a one-bedroom, it all comes down to what you value. You should live where you will thrive, so find the right apartment for your lifestyle, your taste, and your budget.
