Where We Live

We've lived in this neighborhood for over a year now, and plan to stay for another 1-2 years, God-willing, or until we can afford to buy a house. This is by far the nicest apartment we have lived in, a gated community and all. Ours in a medium-sized 2-bedroom apartment on the third floor, with most of the amenities we were looking for in an apartment -- our own A/C unit, own water heating unit, dishwasher, laundry washer and dryer, space (extra room), thick walls, quiet neighborhood, proximity to both our workplaces, swimming pool and hot tub and clubhouse, and good water flow from our faucets, among other things. The only thing we didn't get (and actually don't need) is a fireplace. We've grown to like this place.

No apartment is perfect, however. Within the first few months of moving in, some things irked us:

1. Similar places in this part of town are a little less expensive.
2. High utility bills in the $100-$200 range. The bill lists electricity and gas used administratively/communally (e.g. to keep the pool warm or run security lights around the complex), wind energy investment (a rip-off, in my opinion), water, sewage, and trash. In addition to that, you also pay separately the city utility company for electricity and gas (around $70 tops). We really can't do anything to reduce the utility cost because it is shared by all residents and follows some protocol in how they determine which apartments pay how much.
3. Parking! It seems to me that there are are more apartment units than parking spots, so it is not uncommon to park outside the fence on side roads or 2 apartment blocks away from where you live. Garages run $80/month while covered parking with cost about $35/month.

Other than that, this is a really nice place to live. The grounds are well-kept and maintenance service is prompt. It is close enough to the Interstate, grocery shopping is within walking distance, outdoor opportunities nearby, church and work (mine) very close. It is comfortable living, and we are thankful to God for it.