What Kind of Apartment Should You Rent With Your Partner?

Moving in together is one of the most exciting things about getting married. Finding the perfect apartment can be hard, but with proper planning and research, it can be the most fulfilling part of your journey.

Discover different types of apartments suitable for newlyweds and assess their pros and cons.

 

1. High-Rise Apartment

A high-rise apartment building offers modern living with panoramic city views. It usually has several floors and on-site amenities like a gym and pool, which can make you feel pampered and safe as you start your new life together. It’s a great choice if you want a vibrant, fast-paced lifestyle with easy access to restaurants, shops and nightlife. Buildings with concierge services offer an added layer of security, offering you peace of mind.

However, the rent can be higher than other options, and you might have to deal with long elevator queues, especially during peak hours. Take a tour before signing a lease and consider chatting with tenants about sound insulation.

 

2. Mid-Rise Apartment

A mid-rise apartment offers a balance of urban vibe and a community-centric feel. This building usually has a more manageable number of units and features nice amenities without the overwhelming scale of a high-rise. Many establishments provide scenic outdoor spaces, short elevator wait times, and close proximity to shops, restaurants and businesses.

While they offer amenities, they may not be as luxurious as those in a high-rise. Parking can sometimes be a challenge, and the views might not be as dramatic. Depending on the building’s age, you might encounter less modern finishes.

 

3. Low-Rise Apartment

Low-rise apartments often feel more homey and intimate than the first two options. They’re a solid choice for a relaxed lifestyle and a stronger sense of community. You might find more unique, charming units with character, such as exposed brick. There’s also a positive community spirit due to the limited number of tenants. Studies have shown that people possess greater resilience when they feel part of a community, which can help prevent mental health issues.

Amenities like a pool and a fitness center are less common in low-rise buildings. Security might be less formal, and you may have to deal with walking up stairs, which can be a hassle with groceries.

 

4. Garden Apartment

A garden apartment is located at ground level or partly underground, giving a relaxing neighborhood feel. It’s usually nestled in four-story buildings, giving an intimate neighborhood vibe. This is a good choice if you want to save on utilities, as staying here feels cooler in the summer and warmer in the colder months.

However, this means you may not get enough sunlight, since garden apartments are near trees or partly below ground. You’ll also likely hear footsteps upstairs, depending on the ceiling’s noise insulation. It may not be the ideal option if you and your partner dream of waking up with city views.

 

5. Studio Apartment

For a couple just starting out, a studio apartment helps build intimacy and save money. A typical unit is around 500 square feet but can range from 300 to 1,000 square feet. It’s an open room, except for an enclosed bathroom. Somewhere within the apartment is a kitchenette with basic necessities.

The lack of a separate bedroom can be a drawback if you value personal space and privacy. Staying in a studio apartment means you’ll always be in the same room, which can be challenging if one person works from home.

 

6. One-Bedroom Apartment

A one-bedroom apartment offers a private, separate bedroom, providing personal space for you and your partner. It’s a solid option if you want a balance of togetherness and independence. These places usually come with more storage space. Some have a combined living and kitchen area, while others have archways to separate areas.

The cost is higher than a studio, and you might feel a bit cramped, especially if one of you needs a home office. Hosting guests can feel awkward, as they might be sleeping in the main living area.

 

Tips for Choosing the Right Apartment for You and Your Partner

Still unsure about what to choose? These strategies will help you narrow down your choices.
 

Align on Your Apartment Priorities

Sit down and have an honest conversation about what you both want. Set aside time for discussions about personal expectations and nonnegotiables to prevent miscommunication and foster trust, which will help strengthen the relationship. Important factors to tackle include location, amenities and your budget.
 

Determine Whether to Rent or Own

Deciding to rent or own has financial implications. Renting offers flexibility and less responsibility for maintenance. Owning can be a smart investment, but it comes with a long-term commitment and added costs like repairs and property taxes. Discuss your financial goals to see which options align best with your vision.
 

Decorate and Personalize Together

Decorating together is a chance to merge your styles into one cohesive look. Agree to treat your home as your shared canvas so both parties feel a sense of ownership. Compromise is key. For instance, if one prefers modern design and the other loves vintage, mix and match decor to create a unique space.
 

Take Inventory of Your Items

Are you moving together for the first time? Set aside time to list items you and your partner own. It doesn’t have to be a long list — an overview of furniture, decor and household items should be fine.

Review and shortlist items you want to keep, sell and donate. Then, create a separate list of essentials, such as basic appliances, dish towels, bedsheets and curtains. Looking at what you have before buying can help you save money.
 

Build Your Future Together

The right space is where you and your partner feel confident and comfortable in growing as a married couple. Use these tips to assess which apartment type best suits your needs and future goals. Have fun with your apartment hunt!

 

 

Author Bio: Oscar Collins is the editor-in-chief at Modded, where he writes about a broad spectrum of topics. Follow him on Twitter @TModded for frequent updates on his work.

 

 

 

are you a bride or groom-to-be?

We'd love to plan with you on weddingday-online.com. Let's get started!

 
are you a wedding extraordinaire?

Join WeddingDay Magazine in inspiring couples by partnering with us! See how here.