The American dream used to come standard with the vision of owning a home, sometimes with the stereotypical white picket fence. But when home ownership isn’t practical or possible, is it better to rent a house or an apartment? If you are in the position to consider either leasing a house or renting an apartment, this article is for you. Below, we compare leasing a house vs. renting an apartment and explore the benefits of home leasing at Harvest by Hillwood, our thoughtfully designed, amenity-rich community in Argyle, Texas. Here’s a closer look at the differences between renting apartments and leasing build-to-rent (BTR) homes to help you decide which option best suits your needs.
Renting an apartment in a multi-family complex is a popular choice for many due to affordability and convenience. Apartment living typically offers community amenities, such as pools, fitness centers, and sometimes shared workspaces, all in a compact package. Residents often benefit from lower rent costs compared to other housing options and may find it easier to secure a short-term lease, which allows for more flexibility.
While renting an apartment has its advantages, it also has limitations. Privacy is often compromised due to shared walls with neighboring units, which can make noise management challenging. Additionally, apartments can feel cramped, especially for those needing more room for family or pets. Customization options are usually restricted, limiting renters’ ability to make an apartment truly feel like home. Apartment complexes may also vary in terms of construction quality, so while some apartments offer a luxurious finish, others may lack the high-quality materials or modern design standards that many people desire.
Build-to-rent (BTR) homes, like those available from BB Living at Harvest by Hillwood, offer a middle ground between apartment renting and homeownership. These homes are specifically designed for leasing, providing spacious living environments and a sense of community. Unlike typical rentals, BTR homes often include single-family homes or duplexes that offer more privacy, ample square footage, and access to private outdoor space. Some homes may share walls, but residents can still enjoy more peace and privacy than in a traditional apartment complex.
Leasing a home in a community like Harvest allows residents to experience the benefits of living in a planned community without the long-term commitment of buying. This “try-before-you-buy” approach is ideal for those who want to enjoy a community’s amenities and lifestyle offerings before making a significant purchase. At Harvest, residents of BB Living homes have access to our award-winning lifestyle program, managed by a full-time Lifestyle Manager who organizes more than 300 events and gatherings each year to bring neighbors together.
Another advantage of leasing a BTR home at Harvest is the maintenance-free aspect, as all yard maintenance and repairs are covered by the monthly lease. Unlike apartment renting, where maintenance may be more limited, BTR home leasing offers a blend of independence and convenience without property tax obligations.
While leasing a house may come at a higher monthly cost than apartment renting, the added privacy, space, and access to community amenities make it an appealing choice for many.
When weighing the choice between renting an apartment and leasing a build-to-rent home, several factors should be considered:
Budget is a primary consideration. Apartments are often more affordable than BTR homes due to their smaller square footage and limited amenities. However, for those who prioritize privacy, space, and outdoor areas, a BTR home’s slightly higher cost might be worthwhile, especially if located within a community like Harvest with extensive amenities.
Apartments may suffice for individuals or couples, but families or those who enjoy outdoor activities might prefer the additional space provided by BTR homes. BB Living at Harvest offers various floor plans, giving residents the flexibility to choose a layout that best suits their needs.
For families with school-age children, a home’s location within a reputable school district is critical. The homes for lease at Harvest are served by the acclaimed Argyle ISD, making them an excellent choice for families. Children who live in the build-to-rent homes at Harvest will start school at the brand new Jane Ruestmann Elementary right within the community.
Those who enjoy an active lifestyle or value community events may find that leasing a home at Harvest meets their needs better than an apartment. With Harvest’s lifestyle program, residents have access to a packed calendar of events, from child-centered “Harvest Littles” activities to wine tastings and fitness clubs for the adults, to holiday festivals for the whole family, and much more. This level of community programming is a feature that sets Hillwood Communities like Harvest apart from other planned communities. And of course, these activities are not typically available in apartment complexes, either.
Harvest’s location in Argyle provides the charm of small-town living while offering easy access to major Texas cities. Our location near I-35W, with proximity to Fort Worth, Dallas, and Denton, ensures residents can commute to top employers, universities, and health care centers. For those who want to balance rural tranquility with urban convenience, Harvest’s location is ideal.
While apartment communities often include some maintenance, BTR homes like those in BB Living at Harvest take it a step further by including comprehensive maintenance in the lease. All yard upkeep and home repairs are covered, allowing residents to enjoy a hassle-free lifestyle within a spacious home.
For those interested in leasing a single-family home, BB Living at Harvest offers various layouts and designs to suit diverse needs and lifestyles. This option provides prospective homeowners with the opportunity to experience the Harvest lifestyle without the long-term commitment of purchasing a home. Leasing a home here gives residents access to the full spectrum of amenities, including Harvest Farm, the Fit Barn, Farmhouse Coffee & Treasures, Central Park, Harvest Lake, the Fun Fields, multiple pools, the Dock, the Front Porch, the dog park, our network of hiking trails, and more.
For those ready to invest in a new home, Harvest by Hillwood also offers new construction homes for sale, with options from some of the best builders in the Dallas-Fort Worth area. These modern, energy-efficient homes provide various sizes and floor plans to accommodate all preferences. Whether leasing or buying, Harvest ensures you’ll find a home and lifestyle that perfectly fits your vision.
Our new construction builders have available homes, and many are offering incentives, so now is a great time to buy! Whether you’re ready to put down roots with a purchase or prefer the flexibility of leasing, we invite you to explore all Harvest has to offer. Learn more about BB Living’s single-family homes for rent or if you’re looking to buy, start your new home search online! Then schedule a community visit with your preferred builder to see why Harvest by Hillwood is the ideal place to live a bountiful life.