Choosing the Right Apartment: A Simple Guide for First Home Buyers
Choosing your first apartment is exciting — but it can also feel overwhelming. Everything can look great at inspections, and it’s easy to get caught up in finishes, views, or a nice kitchen.
The trick is knowing what actually matters long-term, not just what looks good on the day. Here’s a friendly, practical guide to help you choose an apartment you’ll be happy with — financially and lifestyle-wise.
Start With the Building, Not Just the Apartment
It’s easy to focus on the unit itself, but the building matters just as much.
Pay attention to:
- The condition of common areas
- Lifts, stairwells, and basements
- Signs of water damage or poor maintenance
A well-maintained building usually means fewer surprises and better long-term value.
Make Sure the Ongoing Costs Feel Comfortable
The right apartment isn’t just one you can buy — it’s one you can comfortably afford to own.
Look beyond the mortgage and consider:
- Strata fees
- Council rates
- Water charges
- Insurance and utilities
If the monthly total feels tight, it may not be the right fit — even if the price looks good.
Check the Strata Health Early
Strata records tell the real story of an apartment complex.
A healthy sinking fund, clear meeting minutes, and sensible budgeting are good signs. Ongoing disputes, repeated special levies, or underfunding are things to think carefully about.
Think About How You’ll Actually Live There
A great apartment on paper still needs to work for your lifestyle.
Ask yourself:
- Is the layout practical?
- Is there enough storage?
- How’s the natural light and noise?
- Does the location suit your daily routine?
Read the By-Laws (They Matter More Than You Think)
By-laws affect day-to-day living.
Check rules around pets, renovations, noise, and short-term rentals to make sure there are no surprises after you move in.
Consider Resale and Future Flexibility
Even if this is your first home, it’s smart to think ahead.
Apartments in well-maintained buildings, with reasonable fees and good owner-occupier appeal, tend to hold their value better and are easier to sell later.
Make Sure the Apartment Is Lender-Friendly
Some apartments are harder to finance than others.
Very small units, high investor concentrations, or unusual layouts can limit lender options. This can affect borrowing power now — and refinancing later.
Don’t Let Emotion Override the Numbers
It’s easy to fall in love with a place.
The right apartment should feel good emotionally *and* make sense financially. If something feels rushed or stretched, it’s worth pausing.
The “Right” Apartment Is the One That Fits You
There’s no perfect apartment — but there is a right one for you.
When the building is sound, the costs are manageable, and the lifestyle fits, you’re usually on the right track.
Want Help Sense-Checking an Apartment Before You Buy?
If you’re looking at apartments and want help reviewing the costs, strata details, and loan side of things, a quick conversation can help you choose with confidence.
