What are the pros and cons for renting a house as opposed to an apartment?

stabbingastar: What are the pros and cons for renting a house as opposed to an apartment?
My wife and I are sure we do not want to buy a home yet but we feel we have outgrown renting an apartment. We prefer a bigger space with less neighbors who complain about the slightest noise. We have thought about renting a house and I was wondering if anyone out there can tell me their experience in renting a house. Is it better or worse?

Answers and Views:

Answer by beagle
A serious drawback to renting a house especially in today’s real estate climate is not knowing when the owner might decide to put the place up for sale.

Advantages to renting a house?

-far more space to enjoy than you would find in an apartment
-no common walls, ceiling or floors to hear noisy neighbors or who might complain about you. However, be aware that you could also have noisy neighbors next door as well- even renting a house.
– no disturbances with tradesmen constantly “upgrading” the building
– no elevators breaking down
– better chance to have a pet if you want one
– a yard to lounge around in
– most likely will come with washer/dryer, ensuite bathroom, fireplace etc etc.
– maintenance of the place is done by the owner, not by you.

Disadvantages:

-owner could suddenly decide to sell
– heat and hot water usually not included and because the place is significantly larger your monthly utility bill [which could include heat, hot water, electricity, garbage pick up and water] will be much higher
– depending on the age of the house the owner may be doing regular repairs and upgrades which will be interruptions to you
– risk of chronic barking dogs just outside your bedroom window from the neighbor’s yard next door could be a problem
– less secure than an apartment setting
– expect to pay significantly higher rent because you are getting so much more.
– Though maintenance [grass cutting etc] is done by the owner you might get an owner who is not all that interested and doesn’t do all that much even though he should.
– insurance will be higher

Given your comment, “We prefer a bigger space with less neighbors who complain about the slightest noise,” I would say those far out weigh any of the disadvantages to renting a house. I’d go for it!