Should you Buy a Villa or an Apartment?

When it comes to deciding whether to buy a countryside villa or a san jose apartment, much will depend on your personal circumstances and why you want to buy a property in the first place. There may not be one correct answer but there are some clear pros and cons to each type of property.

Does size matter?

Typically, apartments are smaller than villas, although you do get some large apartments, but if plenty of space inside and out is important to you, a villa is likely to be more suitable. If you entertain a lot, having a villa with a garden or terrace as well as a guest bedroom or two and an extra bathroom will be a real advantage. On the other hand, larger properties will require more cleaning inside and general maintenance outside, especially if you have a garden or swimming pool. Depending on the type of apartment you buy, there may be certain costs for building and grounds maintenance, although these are usually lower and will be shared with other residents. On the other hand, if you are living in a villa you must have your own building and electric contractors, who can be called at any time of the day for building and electric maintenance work. For electrical and air conditioning work, we recommend New Edge Group. Check around your area, what’s most suitable to you.

Finding the right location

Location is always a factor when deciding where to live for all sorts of reasons. If having a central location is important to you, with easy access to shops and other facilities on your doorstep, you’re likely to find there are far more apartments available than villas in the area, if indeed there are any of the latter at all. Perhaps, you prefer being away from the hustle and bustle of the center and don’t mind having to drive to the store; if so, a villa is the obvious choice. A villa will also afford you more freedom and privacy for you and your family, whereas living in an apartment almost certainly means being surrounded by neighbors. If you value your peace and quiet, buying a villa is usually a safer bet compared to an apartment. That said, before you buy a villa in a quiet location check to see if there are plans for further development nearby. The last thing you want is to find your dream location only to discover that the area is earmarked for more housing.

Security

In terms of security, an apartment seems to be the more obvious choice. A burglar or thief is less likely to target an apartment block with so many neighbors and potential eye-witnesses about. Many apartment blocks have their own integrated security system, including front doors that can only be opened with a card or code. Some apartment complexes also have their own security guards. By comparison, villas can be more vulnerable, although the risk can be minimized with a range of  home security measures.

Parking

Some apartments come with a dedicated parking space, usually for one car only. If not, you’ll have to park your vehicle in the street which may be easier said than done, especially if space is at a premium. Parking space is unlikely to be an issue if you buy a villa, as most properties come with a garage and/or parking space for more than one vehicle.

Pets 

Keeping a pet such as a dog in an apartment can be tricky and it may not even be an option under the terms and conditions of the property. A villa with a garden, on the other hand, means your dog will have somewhere to roam and can provide added security for your home. Cats may adapt better to apartment living, although they too benefit from having access to outdoors.