House or apartment?
Mónica Tesouro
- #Market
This choice seems as timeless as debates about which is better: cats or dogs, tea or coffee, an SUV or a convertible. But jokes aside, it is important to consider the issue from every angle and try to reach a verdict, even a subjective one. Each option has its own unique features, and what suits one person may be entirely unacceptable to another.
Advantages
Space and privacy
Private houses usually have more living space, both indoors and outdoors. You have your own yard or garden, which is especially valuable for families with children or people who love nature. You will certainly have your own grill, and perhaps a swimming pool.
Freedom and autonomy
You can freely make changes to the house and surrounding land, such as planting, installing a pool or carrying out renovations as you see fit.
Peace and seclusion
There is less noise from neighbours in private houses, and the land around the home creates a feeling of privacy and quiet.
Parking
Private houses usually have their own garage or parking space, which makes keeping a car easier.
Disadvantages
Cost
Private houses are generally more expensive, especially if they are in prestigious areas or have large plots of land. This is only partly offset by the absence of common expenses (gastos comunes).
Maintenance
Caring for a house and plot requires more time, resources and even specific skills. This includes garden care, repairs and maintaining the exterior. The humid climate encourages mould and mildew, requiring additional ventilation and seasonal heating.
Distance from infrastructure
Private houses can be a considerable distance from shops, schools and other infrastructure, which may be inconvenient in everyday life. How much time are you willing to spend taking a child to school? How long will it take for your plumber or electrician to arrive and fix a fault?
Security
Private houses can attract more attention from intruders, especially during a long absence, for example when you decide to spend a couple of weeks at the beach in another country. Therefore, you need to invest in a security system, such as an alarm, reliable window shutters and so on.
Advantages
Proximity to infrastructure
Apartments are often located closer to city centres, giving easy access to shops, restaurants, schools and transport.
Security
Modern residential complexes in Uruguay usually have security systems, including guards, CCTV and gated grounds.
Lower maintenance costs
Unlike a private house, apartment maintenance, such as repairs or cleaning common areas, is often included in common expenses and overseen by the management company.
Social life
All your friends are always nearby, and you can meet more often, go to restaurants, the cinema and theatre. All the entertainment a capital city offers is available to you.
Disadvantages
Limited privacy
In apartments you are closer to neighbours, which can lead to noise or inconvenience from limited space. And your upstairs neighbours can flood your apartment.
Less space
Apartments are generally smaller than private houses, which may be inconvenient for large families or people who like spacious rooms.
Limited freedom to make changes
Even in your own apartment, there are restrictions on remodelling or renovation because you depend on the management company and the residential complex’s rules. Even moving home sometimes has to be approved.
No private yard or garden
Most apartments do not have private outdoor space, which can be a disadvantage for people who value greenery or want their own garden. Shared spaces must be booked in advance.
Depending on your preferences and priorities, each of these options has its pros and cons in Uruguay.