subject: 4 And 1/2 Reasons For Renting An Apartment In New Orleans (vs. Buying) [print this page] The discussion surrounding the "American Dream" of home ownership has been all the buzz in recent months; many experts weighing the pros and cons of both. It seems "the dream" is not what it used to be, nor is it a realistic goal for many. Now, we recognize that as one of largest "landlords" for apartments in the New Orleans area our opinion on the subject may seem less that objective, but the facts are the facts, and here are a few to consider:
1. Credit: A home mortgage is sometimes not an option for those of us with less than great credit. It's interesting that apartment renting can actually build up poor credit and should be considered an investment in your credit rating.
2. Yard Care & Maintenance: If you have a small family or busy career, you have little time to devote to lawn care. Apartment managers keep the community grounds clean and attractive with no additional fees from you, the renter.
3. Amenities: An apartment community may have amenities that are attractive benefits in convenience and in less bills to you. Covered parking, access gates, swimming pools, tennis courts, high-end shared entertainment lounges, dry-cleaning and concierge services, and rooftop BBQ patios are just some extras offered at some communities that are all included in your rental rate.
4. Freedom: Renting an apartment offers you the flexibility of moving across town or across the country as life changes. Career changes or growing family can be accommodated quickly with the freedom that renting allows.
* 4 1/2: If something breaks-inside or outside-it's the landlord's (our) problem, not yours!
The decision to rent or buy is a personal one that depends on several factors-some quantitative, some qualitative and even psychological. This handy calculator offered by the NY Times can help with the quantitative part.
