If you are moving into an apartment, you should consider if there is enough parking. What defines enough parking depends on where the building is located, type of building, and how much you rely on having your vehicle.
Additionally, it would be wise to ask additional questions, including cost, if parking is reserved, located on-site, and is the parking in a garage or surface parking?
Many prefer garage parking, but few consider the possible benefits of surface parking, including easier access, price, and potential time saver.
What is surface parking?
Surface parking is generally considered just what the name sounds, surface-level open-air parking without a roof (garage) or cover.
What is a good parking ratio?
Generally speaking, in a more dense urban environment (cities) a parking ratio of 1:1 (one spot per apartment) is considered very good. In more suburban environments or garden-style apartments, you will likely see slightly higher ratios. Some high-rises and buildings do not have any parking. If parking is important to you, ask, among other questions, what the parking ratio is, as well as number of available parking spots.
Possible Benefits of Surface Parking?
Surface parking can be a popular choice among renters due to affordability and ease of access. Let’s take a closer look at the specific benefits of surface-lot parking in an apartment complex.
- Price – Surface parking is generally cheaper than garage parking. If budget is a factor (which it is for nearly everyone) surface parking can be a great choice. For example, in Philadelphia apartments with Parking, surface parking is usually about $75 to $100+ per month cheaper than garage parking. Over a year, that can be up to $1,200 in savings.
- Easier Access – Surface parking can offer easier access, without having to go up and down a multi-story garage.
- Time-Saver – Per the above, surface parking generally allows one to drive their car out directly without navigating multi-floor garages, thus saving time.
- More Out in Open – Some people like the idea of being able to see their car out in the open, and potentially view it from their apartment, especially late at night.
Make sure surface parking is well-lit at night. Of course, surface parking may have some disadvantages (i.e. weather elements), but the positives above can outweigh the negatives. Of course do your own research and make the best decision for you and your family.
Best of luck in your apartment search. Hopefully this article gives you a nice start.
