Unlike some things in life, rent is not random. Normally if one apartment is more expensive than the others it is for a reason. Now before you write off the expensive option and deem the extra cost as insane, it may be priced that way for a reason.
Sure, at first a $400 dollar a month rent seems better than an $800 a month rent but look at what each includes. For example, if the $400 a month rent doesn’t include utilities or parking then that could add up to an extra $200 a month minimum.
You may not “need” cable but you definitely need Wi-Fi and that is an added cost if it doesn’t come included. Same goes for parking if you’re bringing a car to school than having a spot designated by your complex can save you hundreds of dollars each semester.
And because the $400 a month apartment is priced so inexpensively it may be outdated or not as well maintained. Now, I’m not saying it is run down but apartments are priced certain ways for a reason.
This also goes into issues of security, often times the more expensive complexes will have hired guards and extra gates to ensure that those who live there are safe and feel protected. If you’re living alone this is something to seriously consider, as it can make a world of difference to know that there is constant surveillance and help available.
Price can also be tied to a number of amenities the complex offers, even if a complex is priced low and is beautiful if it doesn’t have a fitness center or pool these will be extra monthly costs to consider. Gym memberships can be pretty pricey so it is important to consider all aspects that make a rent.
You might be paying more upfront but if you consider everything each apartment includes it can be better to pay more.
Rent is not random, it’s a math problem where each adds in, amenity and included utility are added together. If you take away all of the inclusions, then the rents of most places will be pretty similar. It may be better to pay more and save the hassle of doing the math alone.
Equal Housing Opportunity
