There’s a time in everyone’s life when you have to move or change an apartment. Whether you’re going to or going out of college, moving out of your parents’ house or you want to be closer to work. Maybe you got a job in a different city. Or you just need a change. There are a lot of things that you must take into consideration. Usually, the first thing you need to think of is your budget. In a city like New York, it’s always better if the rent isn’t too high. That’s where renting in an old apartment building comes on the scene. Lower rent isn’t the only good thing about it. They usually have that vintage charm to add up. You know, that sassy but classy vibe.

Old but gold

Nowadays, the majority of people decide to rent an old apartment rather than a new one. With rising prices of living and living space, old buildings, besides looking interesting on the outside, are way more affordable. And they’re usually in good locations and offer more space at an affordable price. But if it’s still too much for your budget, you can always consider finding a roommate and splitting the costs.

Three men looking through ads about renting in an old apartment building on a laptop
Find a roommate to split the bills

How old is too old?

When the renting in an old apartment building may be a problem? There’s a difference between old and dilapidated. Either way, though it has its perks, there are a few things you should consider checking when it comes to old buildings:

  • Plumbings – ask your landlord about the state of the pipes. It is not strange that in older buildings the pipes tend to crack and burst, due to the materials used in the ’70s and ’80s
  • Electrics – similar to plumbings, older buildings may have older wires and electric panels. It’s not bad to bring an electrician to check the condition of the electrics
  • Windows – though it may seem irrelevant, the condition of windows and doors may significantly increase your heating bills, if they are drafty
  • Bugs and rats – check if you have any unwanted roommates. No, we don’t mean ghosts. Bugs and rats tend to find their way in, especially in older buildings. It is not bad to call pest control, just to make sure there are no unwanted residents
  • Smaller doors and elevators – you’ve found a reliable moving company, everything is coming along, it seems you’re almost there. But don’t forget to measure the front and the elevator door, because they’re sometimes smaller than standard. You don’t want to end up sleeping in front of the building because your king-sized bed couldn’t fit through the door
An electrician looking at a socket
Check your electrics

These are some of the things that may have an impact on your budget and cause additional expenses, though nothing that couldn’t be fixed.

Renting in an old apartment building – yes or no?

As we mentioned earlier, the market for old buildings is constantly rising, especially in cities like New York. Older buildings apartments have their advantages and disadvantages, like any other apartment. But we think that that shouldn’t turn you down when looking for a place to live.

There are so many beautiful old hoods, with beautiful apartments with unique architecture and hardwood floors, that fit your needs, style, and budget. So, yes, we do think that you should think about renting in an old apartment building.