How Furnished Does it Come?
Even among furnished apartments, there are differences. Some units are outfitted with just the necessities ( a bed, dresser, kitchen table, sofas, etc.), while others seem dressed to the nines. The latter might have curtains, lamps and even some decor in addition to the basic big-ticket items.
When you view an apartment, ask the landlord which items will be included with the place when you move in. You can also ask before you view.The sooner you know, the better. That way, you’ll know what other furniture and appliances you’ll need to get before your move.
Additional Costs and Considerations
When it comes to furnished apartments, the landlord invested in filling the unit with stuff. That upfront cost doesn’t disappear—you, the renter, will likely pay for it with a higher rent price.
This is where you can do some cost-benefit analysis. Compare the monthly rent of the furnished unit with an apartment of equal size in the same neighborhood without furniture. Then, consider about how much you’d have to pay to purchase any furniture you still need.
Add furnishing costs to the rent and see whether that number is higher or lower than the price of the furnished place. If you don’t have a lot of furniture already, then the furnished apartment is probably cheaper and you may consider going that route.
Reasons to Choose Furnished
Is a furnished unit better for you than the unfurnished place? Check out this pros-and-cons list that outlines situations in which you may or may not consider a fully furnished space:
Pros:
You won’t have to move any heavy furniture.
You won’t have to buy much.
Ideal for short-term leases.
You can still decorate to make the place feel like yours.
Cons:
You may not have space for big furniture you already own (meaning you’ll either have to store it or get rid of it).
Rent is higher (which isn’t good if you own furniture already).