There is much to consider when choosing whether or not to rent a home. There are both up sides and down sides. One of the first things you should take into consideration is your financial status. What can you afford? Where is it located? Location plays a major role in how much a rental property costs.

-Some of the perks of renting are:

-In general the monthly rent is lower then a mortgage.(However this is not always the case). Also, some rental companies include some or all of your utilities such as gas and water in the monthly rent. Rental properties include appliances such as a refrigerator, and nicer/more expensive properties include a dishwasher, and washing machine/dryer within the apartment. Most rental properties only offer public washing facilities, but thats still better then trotting off to the local laundry mat.(Some rental properties don't offer laundry facilities at all)

-Many rental communities have public facilities such as a swimming pool, playground, gym, conference room, and/or party/club house, and occasionally a courtyard. The use of these facilities are generally at no extra cost to the renter. Many times certain areas also have 24 hour access (such as the gym). Often time there will be activities offered at the community centers as well. For those people who enjoy community, these are some great places to get to know your neighbors.

-Occasionally rental properties will offer a garage (for additional charges). Obviously this is not a required purchase, but its a good option to have available for those who have multiple cars. It guarantees a parking space, or some extra storage space for any extra stuff that might not fit into your apartment. Be careful though, sometimes there is a clause on the garage rental that states you can only use the garage for parking a car.

In a rental property, all maintenance of a unit and building is the sole responsibility of the landlord. You don't ever have to pay for a plumber, or an electrician. If the stove brakes you don't have to run out and buy a new one. Most complexes and rental companies have a maintenance person on staff (sometimes on call 24/7). Or sometimes they have a contracted maintenance company. (which is more common among rental houses). You don't have to do yard work in an apartment complex either. They hire people to do that too.

-Here are some of the negative points about rental properties.

-When you pay to live in a rental property, you are

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