Features to Look For

In the past, flats were only really common in major cities and were typically rented out by landlords as a form of budget accommodation. However, over the past 20 years, a large number of old buildings and industrial sites have been converted into modern apartments to provide attractive high-tech, low-maintenance living to home-buyers of all ages. Stately homes, hospitals, schools, warehouses, mills, offices and factories have all been redeveloped in cities and rural locations across the country, making apartment living an appealing option.

Size

The size of apartments varies considerably; however, you will find that a new apartment may be much smaller than an equivalent flat built or converted some time ago. A new studio apartment is typically around 25 sq m (270 sq ft), a 1 bedroom 40-60 sq m (430-645 sq ft) and a 2 bedroom 55-80 sq m (590-860 sq ft).

Bedrooms can be small, starting from a measly 4.2 sq m (45 sq ft) suitable only for a single bed, with an average size in the region of 12 sq m (130 sq ft) - this approximates to a bedroom of 3x4 m (10x13 ft).

When comparing the price of apartments, always take their cost per square metre (or per square foot) into comparison.

Fittings

The modern apartment-buyer typically expects a high basic standard of features, and new apartments usually have to be fairly lavishly appointed in order to sell. These apartments are beautifully designed and fitted, including designer kitchens complete with top quality appliances, en suite bathrooms with separate showers, built-in wardrobes, telephone and TV points, fitted carpets or wooden floors in the living areas and ceramic tiles in the bathroom and kitchen.

More luxurious flats may come complete with a range of high-tech options, including air-conditioning, broadband connections in all rooms, a 24-hour caretaker or concierge, CCTV surveillance and a security system with entry phones.

Communal Facilities

Many modern flats are developed and marketed as 'lifestyle' apartments and may have a leisure complex with a swimming pool and gym, sauna, Jacuzzi, rooftop gardens and secure parking. Some developments (especially city apartments) may also have private meeting rooms for residents' exclusive use, a restaurant and a bar.