The housing market is one of the many industries hit hard by COVID-19, with apartment prices in big cities dropping sharply, demand for housing in the suburbs increasing sharply, and generous work-from-home policies boosting nomads. I started going out.
Knowledge is power. So, if you're thinking of hiring a moving company to move now, or just daydreaming about your future dream home, learn more about the types of apartments you're interested in before diving headfirst into open market season. Get ready. Each type has its pros and cons, depending on who you live with and what amenities you're looking for.
Some cities are more favorable to renters than others, but no matter where you end up or what type of apartment you like, remember one important thing. It's renters insurance.
1. Studio
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A studio is a one-room apartment with an additional bathroom. An open floor plan that combines living space, bedroom space, and dining space into one room. Depending on the shape and layout of the studio, the kitchen may be installed along the main wall or to the side.
Studio apartments are usually occupied by individuals or couples. Studio apartments offer little privacy, but they offer flexibility in decoration and open layouts can make small spaces appear larger. There are lots of creative storage solutions to get the most out of your studio apartment.
2. Convertible Studio/Apartment
Another variation of the studio apartment is the convertible studio. This studio is large enough to be converted into a one-bedroom by building walls and installing partitions (shelves, partitions, curtains, etc.). This makes the entire apartment feel smaller, but it also separates the living and sleeping spaces and provides privacy.
Convertible apartments are the same concept, but you can convert one bedroom into two bedrooms, two bedrooms into three bedrooms, and so on. This is more common in larger cities where rents are higher and additional roommates are required. to cover expenses. Always consult the building manager before carrying out any construction work in your apartment.
3. Alcove Studio
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Alcove studios are a variation on the traditional one-room studio, with a layout that either has a partial wall or a separate corner for a bed. Although it's technically still one room, the alcove provides extra privacy. However, since the bed is placed in a specific location, the possibility of relocation is also limited.
4. Micro
A micro-apartment is essentially a mini-studio. It is a studio unit and measures less than 400 square feet. They usually come with a kitchenette, rather than being fully stocked with appliances such as a small refrigerator and hot plate. Micro-apartments are located in densely populated cities where rents are high and low-cost real estate is limited.
Although micro-apartments don't offer as much space, they can be a viable option for solo residents, especially in relation to the popularity of tiny homes and the growth of the van lifestyle.
5. Loft
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Loft apartments also have one-room open layout plans. Extra-high ceilings and other common features such as large windows, exposed brick, and exposed support beams set it apart from other studios. Lofts are typically found in former commercial buildings that have been converted into residential buildings. Some large lofts can accommodate a separate sleeping space (or spaces), but the ceilings are so high that there are often no floor-to-ceiling walls.
6. Garden
Garden apartments are ground floor or basement apartments with access to the unit's own outdoor space. Although having your own outdoor space is a great benefit, these apartments can sometimes come with issues such as home security systems, pests, and moisture. If you are unable to visit the apartment and inspect the situation yourself, ask your real estate agent specific questions about these potential issues.
7. Penthouse
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Opposite the garden apartment is the penthouse apartment, located on the top floor of a high-rise building. They are associated with luxurious accommodation and high rents. Some penthouses have a private elevator separate from the rest of the building, providing direct access to the apartment. They are usually large and offer beautiful views.
8. Railway
Railway apartments do not refer to apartments located near railway tracks, but rather apartments where the rooms are lined up like a train car, and you move through each room to the next. It is usually narrow and long and consists of three or four rooms. If you live alone or with a partner, this layout is very functional, but if you live with roommates, walking through someone's bedroom to get to another can be a hassle.
9.Walk up
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Literally, walk-up apartments are in buildings without elevators. Regulations vary by location, but these buildings are not very tall and often have fewer individual units. While having to climb stairs can be a hindrance for some people, it can also be an advantage of living in a building with fewer tenants.
10. Duplex
A duplex is a dwelling that is divided into two separate living units. They are most commonly found in row houses and single-family homes, but can also be found in apartment buildings. The two units each have their own entrance and are usually similar in size. Units in a duplex can be placed side by side or one above the other.
11. Skyscrapers
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High-rise buildings of 12 stories or more are common in urban areas. There is at least one elevator, and often multiple elevators are installed to serve a large number of floors and tenants. Although individual apartments within high-rise buildings vary widely, high-rise buildings are typically associated with more upscale accommodations.
12.Mid rise
Mid-rise apartments are also common accommodations in urban areas. These buildings range from the 5th to the 11th floor and are equipped with elevators.
13. Lowrise
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Low-rise apartments range from the 1st floor to the 4th floor. There are often no elevators, but some low-rise buildings with special access features have elevators.
14. Cooperative play
Cooperative housing (commonly referred to as a co-op) is an apartment building where residents purchase to become co-owners of the entire property. In addition to mortgage payments, residents also pay shared costs such as maintenance and living expenses if the building has special features (such as a gym, pool, rooftop or patio space).
The co-op is governed by a board of directors and has an approval process for new tenants. It's more stable than renting, but there are rules to follow and building issues require votes, which can be a bureaucratic process.
15. Condominium
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Apartments and condominiums are individually owned units, which provide them with more independence than cooperatives. Purchasing a condo can be a good option for a full-time or part-time vacation. Condos can be rented out in your absence (compared to co-ops, most boards have strict rules regarding this kind of thing). The condominium market is especially hot right now.
