During the housing crisis at the end of the 2010 decade, many people have considered opting for an apartment over a house. The belief a decade ago was that home ownership was the key to having a successful lifestyle. With the housing market crash, absurd unemployment rates, and foreclosures still rising people have decided that in order to save money and rebuild their lives, it is best to consider an apartment. This has now become a way of thought as far as a permanent residence. Apartments are becoming more and more like communities with playgrounds, and cost effective with full utilities paid on most. The complexes are clean and established and more are popping up in very nice areas that allow children to attend nice schools.
On the flip side, the idea of owning a home, having a yard, and playing catch with the kids is something that many Americans want to be able to have and experience. The idea of having your own place independent of any other residence is one that millions work for and struggle to either gain or to maintain. The housing market crash destroyed many of these hopes and dreams, and many are working hard again to regain that dream life. Owning a home provides tax benefits, independence, and feeling of success. These are things that apartment life just simply cannot provide. So while many opt for an apartment, they are viewing it as a holding place until they can purchase their own home. This has traditionally been the reputation that apartment life provided until the Great Recession occurred.