Living in a flat rather than a house has its advantages. Here are five arguments to convince you of the advantages of living in a residence.

1- Energy costs

Living in a flat can be much more cost-effective than living in a house, both in terms of rent and daily living expenses. The main source of savings is heating. It is cheaper to heat a flat that is smaller than a house, but is also protected from the cold because it is part of a complex (neighbouring flats avoid heat loss). In concrete terms, living in a flat saves money on your electricity or gas bill.

Of course, today's new buildings are becoming more and more energy-efficient. It all depends on the year of construction of your building or house.

The rent for a flat is generally cheaper than for a house (if you compare the same geographical area).

2- Maintenance

When you rent a flat, if you have a problem, you can call the building manager and have someone deal with the issue.

Gardening is another important factor to consider. Most flats do not have private gardens, only balconies, which means that if you live in a flat you are not required to mow the lawn or tend to the planting.

Residents of a building usually have a maintenance person who takes care of the outdoor spaces, whether it is the common areas or the green spaces of the residence. 

3- Safety

Most flats have several 'layers' of entrance. A main door, a side door or fire door, and then the door to your flat. Not to mention digicodes, videophones, etc.

This makes it more difficult for potential thieves to gain access to your home in a building.

There is also the advantage of living close to others, i.e. your neighbours. It is more difficult for a thief to go unnoticed in the corridors, staircases or lift.

4- Additional equipment

Many residences often offer facilities that you would not necessarily have if you were renting a house. There are cellars, laundry rooms, and sometimes in the higher end residences, swimming pools, sports rooms...

 If you live in an urban area one of the best things about living in a flat is the parking. Street parking in the city can be a nightmare and flats often have secure underground parking.

5- Low commitment

As the rent is generally lower on flats, this means that you are able to move more easily, than being tied to a house with a mortgage. 

It is also easier to 'part with' a flat than a house. The feeling of belonging is often stronger for a house than for a residence or a flat.