So, you’re looking for a place to rent in Portland?
As you’ve already seen… there are a lot of options in the Portland area for housing.
All the way from apartments in Portland to rental houses in Portland… condos… mobile homes, and more.
But if you’re struggling to decide if you want to rent an apartment or a house… check out our tips below on the “pros and cons” of renting a local apartment vs. the pros and cons of renting a local house. (also, see our blog post on pros and cons of Rent to Own Programs for more detailed info >)
Renting An Apartment vs Renting A House in Portland
Renting A Portland Apartment –
There are lots of great apartments in Portland.
You’ve probably found new apartment complexes with all kinds of amenities like a swimming pool, gym, rec area, and all kinds of other perks.
And you’ve probably come across some bare-bones apartments that just gave you 4 walls and not much else.
So here are some Pros for renting local apartments:
- Often rent is cheaper with an apartment vs. renting a house
- Sometimes some services are included in your rent (trash, water, etc.)
- Maintenance is 100% taken care of by the management (if you’re in a bigger complex, usually the maintenance person is on-site and can repair things quickly)
- Sometimes there are more apartment units available than houses you want
- Amenities are often included like rec rooms, gyms, pools, and more.
- Sometimes you can pick up your neighbor’s wifi!
Here are some Cons of renting local apartments:
– You have neighbors sharing walls with you (sometimes on 3 sides of you)
– The stairs: If you get an upstairs apartment it can be a pain getting your furniture in and out
– Parking lot dings: If you’ve lived in a large apartment complex where you’re parking in a shared parking lot… you’ve likely experienced a ding or two from your neighbors on your car.
– Usually, you don’t get a yard that is just for you (if you do, it’s usually very very small)
So what about renting a house in Portland?
Here are some Pros for renting local houses:
- You usually get more space than an apartment (and more privacy)
- You don’t share walls with your neighbors
- You get the feeling of living in a home rather than a temporary apartment
- Usually, the neighborhoods are full of other houses and feel more like a real neighborhood… rather than a complex of apartments
- Often times many utilities are paid for
Here are some Cons for renting local houses:
- Sometimes you’re expected to do some more of the minor maintenance yourself (not always though)
- Inventory of great rental houses that you want to live in can be limited
- You may have a higher deposit with a house over an apartment
- Rent is usually higher for a house of similar square footage vs. an apartment (because you’re paying for the other benefits of having a house mentioned above)
Exploring Housing Options in Portland: Choosing the Right Fit for You
When it comes to finding the perfect place to call home in Portland, the decision between apartments and houses for rent can be a bit of a conundrum. Ultimately, the choice you make will depend on your unique preferences and lifestyle.
Space and Privacy:
If you crave ample space and value your privacy, a rented house may be your ideal choice. Houses offer more room to spread out, both indoors and outdoors. You won’t have to worry about sharing walls with neighbors, allowing you the freedom to enjoy your personal space without disturbances. Many people find this particularly appealing, especially if they have a family or enjoy hosting gatherings.
Amenities and Community Living:
On the other hand, if you’re seeking a myriad of amenities, a diverse community, and a potentially lower price point, local apartments could be an attractive option. Apartments often come with shared amenities such as swimming pools, fitness centers, and communal spaces. This creates opportunities for social interactions and a sense of community that some individuals find appealing. Moreover, apartments may be more budget-friendly than renting a house, making them an attractive choice for those who want to save on monthly expenses.
Additional Factors to Consider:
- Location: Take into account the location of the housing options. Apartments may be situated closer to the city center, providing easy access to entertainment, restaurants, and work centers. Houses, on the other hand, might be located in quieter, more suburban or rural areas, offering a different lifestyle.
- Maintenance: Consider your willingness to handle maintenance tasks. In apartments, maintenance and repairs are typically handled by property management, while in houses, tenants are often responsible for upkeep. Think about your comfort level with these responsibilities.
- Lease Terms: Pay attention to the terms of the lease. Apartments often offer shorter lease options, providing flexibility for those who might not want a long-term commitment. Houses may come with longer lease agreements, requiring a more extended commitment.
- Budget: Evaluate your budget carefully. While apartments may offer lower initial costs and utility bills, houses may provide more predictable long-term costs, as they tend to have consistent monthly expenses.
In conclusion, the choice between renting a house or an apartment in Portland ultimately hinges on your lifestyle, preferences, and priorities. Take the time to assess your needs, consider the factors mentioned above, and explore the available options in your area to make an informed decision that suits your unique circumstances.
Remember that visiting both houses and apartments, talking to current residents, and seeking advice from real estate professionals can help you gain a clearer perspective on which type of housing aligns best with your goals and lifestyle. Happy house hunting!
Not sure what a “rent to own” home is?
Check out this page on our website that walks you through what a rent to own home (lease option) home is.
If you’re interested in seeing the local Portland rent to own homes that are available click the link below to get on the list and see available homes.
Or call us at (503) 893-9107 anytime to ask us questions and see if our Portland Rent To Own Program is right for you!