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Due to the recent economic downturn, many people can't afford to pay high mortgages. To add to their growing list of housing woes, foreclosures have gone up and home values have plummeted. Because of these major changes in the housing landscape, rentals seem to have become the preferred housing option in these uncertain times.
As a result, duplex rentals are becoming increasingly popular and, because of their affordability, many people are choosing them over basic apartments. Moreover, architectural firms have in recent years started to implement innovative designs that will ensure that people living in duplexes can enjoy their privacy.
A few of the advantages of choosing a duplex are:
If you are looking at a duplex as an option and have already zeroed in on a rental that meets your needs, here are a few guidelines to make the transition to your new home smooth and effortless:
Noise is a considerable problem in most multiple unit rentals, and since you will be sharing a wall with your neighbor, who might also be your landlord, you will need to be mindful to keep you noise level down. Television sets, stereo systems, conversations, and pets can all make considerable amount of noise. Keeping excess noise down — or at least limited to reasonable times of day — will go a long way in fostering a healthy relationship between your neighbor and yourself.
One way to stay on your neighbors' good side is to meet with them often. Inviting them over for a cup of coffee, cooking them a meal, or stopping by just to say hello will keep the line of communication open. Should an issue arise, you will notice that your established relationship will result in greater cooperation and willingness to help.
Most duplex rentals come with a large yard and garage. Just like sharing a wall, courteously sharing the yard with your neighbor is critical to a happy renting situation. Whether they let you fence your portion of the yard or not, it is imperative that you maintain your side of the yard if your landlord does not provide landscaping services: mow the lawn, rake the leaves, trim the hedges, and complete all other chores that keep your side of the yard looking healthy.
A good number of rentals come with a large garage space. While most people turn their garage into extra storage space and then have no place of their cars, it is recommended that you keep a clutter free garage. In the case you want to store a few items in your garage, try to organize your belongings. Garages are also the easiest way for pests to enter your home. If you notice signs of pests or vermin, alert your landlord and neighbor to the problem right away and get some traps or pesticide.
Find out from your neighbor or landlord when your garbage is due for collection and put your garbage container out on that day. Remember that overflowing garbage will attract insects and other pests. If you share a garbage can with your neighbor, see to it that the garbage is tidy and not spilling out of the receptacle. It might help to make a schedule to decide whose turn it is to take the garbage to the curb for collection.
If you have always lived in an apartment and are wondering if living in duplex will suit you, Rent.com can help you see if the lifestyle change is for you. Duplexes have become a widespread choice among small families and working professionals. You will find yourself enjoying the other benefits that these rentals offer: more space, a bigger yard, a garage close to your doorstep, and many other benefits. It might not have the amenities that large apartment buildings and other rentals offer, but with lower utility bills and a more affordable rent who's to say that it is not a better option?
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