My new lease just came in the mail. Of course, the rent is higher, but I have a decision to make. To stay or go.
I've been out of college for a while and I want to stop slumming it and really live in a NICE place. Nice meaning:
- Everything I already have now (updated kitchen, walk-in closet, good property management company, cheap/reasonable cost of living, safe neighborhood, access to public transportation) PLUS
- A doorman (so I can stop getting all my packages sent to work)
- Stainless steel appliances
- In-unit laundry
- A location within walking distance to my gym OR an in-house fitness facility
But I have to keep 2011's goal in mind. It is to pay off my credit cards (not to move into a nicer apartment/condo). I mentioned in a money post that I might not let myself move until my CCs are paid off. Well they aren't and almost doesn't count, so I think I'm going to stay.
Negatives about staying
- The rent is higher for the upcoming year.
- I still have to walk 6 blocks or take the CTA to my gym which makes working out consistently a real chore.
- My new neighborhood is more like frat town than I expected. I miss the busy, but free of drunkards on a Friday night neighborhood I came from.
- My new neighborhood is slightly more difficult to get to by car (I just prefer to be on a street with an expressway stop).
- I am REALLY over going up and down the stairs to do laundry. Like beyond over it.
- I am still not a fan of entertaining here (though I have had guests and they always seem to like how I've made use of the space).
Positives about staying
- It's going to be a cold winter and everything is included here (heat, electric, gas).
- I do not have to incur additional costs like: moving company, new furniture to update a new space, fees to disconnect and reconnect the cable/internet, etc.
- I do not have to take a day off work (or several) to move.
- Once I pay my CC off, I can check my credit score, start stacking paper and prepare to BUY a really nice place instead of rent.
- I am learning so much about money and discipline, which I think will prepare me well to be home owner.