‘What Renters Want’ with Jessica Fiur: Does [Apartment] Size Matter?

Size, convenience, convenience, size? (Oprah, Uma, Uma Oprah?)

Would you sacrifice size for convenience? A lot of renters are faced with this question, especially when it comes to city dwellers. The choice is usually move to the outskirts of the city and have a big apartment (and usually a lower rent), or stay in the city and have a smaller apartment, but be closer to all the action. And pay more for the privilege. (Thank you sir, may I have another?)

On paper, of course the bigger apartment sounds like the better deal. You get more closet space. You probably get a little more peace and quiet. There’s room for larger furniture. There’s more wall space for your Justin Bieber posters.

However, there is a dark side. (Cue ominous music.) When you’re not in the middle of a city, it sometimes involves a longer commute. There are fewer restaurant and entertainment options. And unless all your friends and family are out in the ‘burbs with you, it can get pretty lonely out there. (And no matter how much you tell them it’s just a short car or train ride to your apartment, they’ll rarely ever make the schlep, and instead “compromise” on a happy hour right after work.)

Though, in this economy, it probably makes more sense to save money on rent. Then you’d have the money for all the beers you’re going to have to buy.

Would you ever turn down a larger apartment in favor of one that was more convenient?

-Jessica Fiur, News Editor