What would you do? I would like some honest opinions!

**DorothyBeverly** · 08-28-2007, 03:40 PM

Hi all,

As most of you know, DH and I are filing bankruptcy. We are going to be moving to an apartment probably around November 1st. I have found a couple apartments, and I want to know your opinions on them.

First : One bedroom, $525/month I am not sure what the deposit is, but it is
$150 pet deposit and $15/month extra for my kitties

Included in rent is water/sewer/trash/cable (which we don't have now) and renter's insurance. I am not sure of the square footage. This apartment is not too much farther that where we are now.

Second: Two bedrooms, $425/month, $300 deposit. NO pet deposit, NO extra rent for my kitties

Included in rent is water/sewer/trash. This apartment is a little bit farther away, but still not too far. It is not as nice as the first one, but alot more affordable.

Obviously, I am not going to get the apartments soon, but these particular two places always have units open.

So, what do you think ladies? Should I opt for the less expensive apartment to be safe (it also has more room), or should I go for the one that costs more and has more amenities (cable, renter's insurance, ect)?

I found a really good income-based apartment building, but they don't take pets...

**Darlene** · 08-28-2007, 03:53 PM

How are the neighborhoods?
Just with the info you gave I'd go for the cheaper one. You don't have cable now so won't miss it and you'd probably be surprised how inexpensive renters insurance is to purchace on your own.

**cheappearls** · 08-28-2007, 03:55 PM

For one I'd say, that's some pretty low rent compaired with here, but cost of living is different in different places.

I would probably go with #2. You can always see about renter's insurance through who you have auto insurance with and might get a discount there.

**ScrapMama** · 08-28-2007, 03:58 PM

I would go with #2. I think you'd get more out of it in the long run.

**ktsmama** · 08-28-2007, 04:04 PM

I think I would go with #2, because the stuff that it does not have compared to #1 will be easy to get if you choose to.

My only concern would be safety. Do you feel safe in both places?

Good luck to you and DH. We are here if you need us.

**DorothyBeverly** · 08-28-2007, 04:12 PM

As far as neighborhoods go, the second one is in a "poorer" section of town, not really a bad neighborhood, just not as uptown, know what I mean? I would still feel safe there.

**Dancing Lotus** · 08-28-2007, 04:12 PM

I would go with #2 you can always move when your lease is up if you dont like it but in the long run you will save a lot of money.

By the way, I couldnt rent a cardboard box for either one of those prices.LOL

**DorothyBeverly** · 08-28-2007, 04:29 PM

Originally Posted by ktsmama

Good luck to you and DH. We are here if you need us.

Thank you so much ktsmama, that really means alot to me.

Things have been really rough, but it WILL get better, I know it will. We are making a plan and we will bounce back from this.

On a down note, our car broke down AGAIN on Saturday...but I didn't get upset, I figure what's the point?

**jamie79** · 08-28-2007, 04:33 PM

I would judge by the neighborhood and the convience factor before deciding which apt to chose. You know close to stores etc. Also with the cable while your trying to manage your money the one with cable may be your entertainment. Just a thought.

**baxjul** · 08-28-2007, 04:36 PM

I would go with the second one. Those are cheap rental prices!

**DAAC3DEC** · 08-28-2007, 05:21 PM

You mentioned car issues, which one is closer to be able to walk to what you need? You already said you felt safe in both areas, I myself would go for convience.......

**cab54** · 08-28-2007, 05:25 PM

I also would go with #2 for a year, and sock away the $$.

Good luck to you and let us know how you like it, whatever it is you decide.

**Persimmon Lace** · 08-28-2007, 05:45 PM

My selection would be based on neighborhood then cost. It sounds like both are safe enough.

**HisDaisy** · 08-28-2007, 06:01 PM

I am not sure which one I would choose, but I do have some apartment tips.

I would try and spend some time in the neighborhoods you are looking at. What is the noise level and what are your neighbors like.
Second, I would check out the landlords. Do they make repairs? Return deposits, etc?
Third, check and see what the bills are at the apartments you are looking at. Some utility companies will give you an average monthly bill for the places you are looking at. I would hate to see you take the cheaper one, and then find out that electric bill is sky high because of insulation issues.

I hope this helps. I have lived in many rental units over the years. Some good and some bad. A lease doesn't seem long until you have to stay in a place that you hate.

**Its_Donna** · 08-28-2007, 06:14 PM

If the neighborhood is decent and you can rely on your transportation then I would pick #2. I like the idea of 2 bedrooms verses 1...you may need room for your stuff. And the price is so right. Good Luck to you and yours.