Welcome to Austin. It is 100 degrees outside.
blog~simplesearchapts.com June 12 2008 02:58:49 PM
It is not even summer yet and we are hitting close to 100
degrees in Austin. As Mathew Broderick says in Biloxi Blues, “ it’s hot….it’s
Africa hot.”
This time of year we truly find out how energy efficient our
rental properties. Get ready for a spike in your electric bill, regardless of
where you live.
This is something that many renters do not think about when
choosing a new apartment. How much will the utilities cost for an older
property versus a newer construction?
Many people want closer to downtown or be in central Austin.
And why not, there is some pretty cool stuff there. Most properties in those
are areas are older, built before 1980. The new constructions there are
exclusive high dollar rental properties, too much for the average Joe. So that
leaves the older constructions for downtown and central wannabes.
When moving into an older property, be prepared for much
higher utility rates. This can be $50 to
$100 more than at a newer property. For those who are on a tight budget, this
can lead them to a breaking point.
An alternative is to live in an area just a few miles to the
north called the Arboretum. Rental rates are more economical there. In addition
to saving on rate, you get the hidden benefit of lowering utility costs. The reason
is simple. The properties there are newer. Building standards improve over
time. Properties become more energy efficient.
So, factor this in when you begin your next apartment
search. It could save you money in the long run.
- Comments [0]
