The following is a resident’s account of their experience living in an apartment building in the Khuent Ward of Hanoi and their insights on choosing an apartment.
“After a decade of living in apartments and moving three times, I’ve learned that buying an apartment is not just about finding a place to live, but also making a financial investment and creating a convenient, secure, and community-oriented living space. Some choices have brought me comfort and peace of mind, while others have caused fatigue and stress. Here are some hard-earned lessons that anyone considering buying an apartment should know.”
1. Prioritize Location Over Cheap Prices
Initially, I prioritized cheap prices and opted for an apartment far from the city center. However, after a year or two, the long commute to work and the hassle of dropping off and picking up my kids became exhausting and costly. The location of your apartment determines 70% of your quality of life, so choose a project with good infrastructure and easy access to schools, hospitals, markets, or supermarkets.
2. Opt for Spacious and Well-Designed Apartments Over Extravagant Interiors
A spacious and well-designed apartment will provide long-lasting comfort, unlike a small apartment with flashy decorations. I’ve experienced the difference between living in a cramped 65m2 apartment and a more spacious 84m2 apartment with simple furnishings, and the latter offers a much more comfortable lifestyle.
3. Choose the “Golden Floor” in the Apartment Building
I used to live on a lower floor for convenience, but I soon realized that dust, noise, and insects were constant nuisances. Now, I only consider the “golden floor,” which is approximately 2/3 of the building’s height. This level offers a balance between fresh air and tranquility while maintaining a good resale value, a lesson learned and agreed upon by long-term residents.
4. Research Your Neighbors and the Resident Community
Living in an apartment with a civilized and friendly community can greatly enhance your peace of mind. In my previous apartment, noisy and inconsiderate neighbors would litter, leading to a rapid decline in the building’s condition. Moving to a project with a strict management team and a considerate community made a significant difference in my daily life.
5. Don’t Underestimate the Importance of Management Fees and Utilities
Some people think that buying an apartment is the main concern, and service fees are negligible. However, management fees directly impact your daily life, covering essential services like elevators, cleaning, security, swimming pools, and playgrounds. Choose a project with reasonable and transparent fees that offer services commensurate with the amount you pay.
6. Ensure Clear Legal Documentation and Ownership Papers
I once bought an apartment without the ownership certificate, thinking it would only take a few months to obtain. Unfortunately, it took three years to sort out the paperwork, causing difficulties when I needed to mortgage or sell the property. This is a valuable lesson—never neglect legal paperwork, and always ensure clear and transparent documentation before purchasing.
After a decade of apartment living, I’ve realized that a desirable apartment is not defined by flashy interiors or initial discounts but by a balance of location, design, community, and legal clarity. For those considering buying an apartment, be meticulous in your decision-making, as the right choice will bring years of comfort, and a wrong move could lead to daily inconveniences and frustrations.
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