Moving into a new apartment block is an exciting experience with a new neighborhood to discover and many people to meet.
It’s one of those once-in-a-lifetime moments when you have your own place, and your independence and freedom.
Buying an apartment right now has the potential to be an excellent, long-term investment. And if you’re thinking of getting into the market, I’d be delighted to show you some of the best opportunities in our neighborhood.
No doubt you’ve seen the media coverage of a property boom. But let me caution about these reports: property is not one big marketplace but thousands of micro-markets, each with a different experience of price trends and buyer preferences.
As an agent with many years of experience in our neighborhood, I’ll be able to guide you through our local market and a great apartment.
There are a few unwritten rules about living in an apartment, and staying on the right side of your neighbors. If you stick to them, you’ll only enhance your enjoyment of living in your new address. So, I’ve made a list of how to avoid potential problems.
In the meantime, if I can help you find an apartment of your dreams or sell your current property, please do not hesitate to contact me.
- Keep it down – Noise levels are one of the hot buttons of many who live in apartments and condos. So, be aware of the noise you make when entering and leaving your apartment. You may also want to check in with neighbors about volume levels for TV and music. If you have kids, take them outside to play rather than let them run around in the hallways.
- Laundry etiquette – In a common laundry area, don’t leave your clothes unattended on the floor or on the washers. Never stop someone else’s washing even if they’re not around. And try to time each machine so you minimize your time in the laundry. Most washers run for 30 minutes, and a dryer might go for 60 minutes. Clean the lint from the machine before you go.
- Parking rules – Ignoring these is a good way to make an enemy quickly. Stay away from reserved spaces, and always park within the lines. You have every right to expect the same from your neighbors.
- Butt out – Don’t litter your building with cigarette butts. Find out if there’s a designated smoking area. Ask management if you’re allowed to smoke in the apartment. If so, ventilate the space to minimize smoke drifting into the vents. And don’t throw the butt out of the window when you’re done.
- Pet subject – Pets are not always permitted in apartment blocks, so check the rules before committing to a purchase. If you want to get a pet, try to make it size- and noise-appropriate. No neighbor wants to be confronted by a Doberman in the hall! And, of course, always keep your dog on a leash and pick up after it.
- Takin’ out the trash – Yes, there’s dumpster etiquette, but it’s common sense. Double-bag your garbage so it doesn’t leak, and wrap sharp edges and discarded food that might smell after a day or two. If your garbage leaks on corridor floors, expect to pay for carpet cleaning. If you have a trash chute, don’t overfill your bag and risk it getting stuck.
- Party time– It’s polite and considerate to let neighbors know you’ll be holding a party. Invite only guests who’ll respect house rules, especially those relating to noise levels and parking. A moment of inconsiderate behavior by a guest can cause you grief with a neighbor.