As a leasing consultant, I have seen and heard the good, the bad, and the ugly of apartment living. Understandably, relocating to a new city, moving in with a roommate or renting an apartment for the first time can be stressful and add on top of that, having to search for one? Forget about it! Here are some common misconceptions and the truths about them that just might surprise you.

Photo courtesy of 1.To lease or not to lease? Home buying vs Apartment renting

You've heard: Buying is always better than renting.Reality: The surprising reality is that multifamily housing offers an affordable alternative, especially considering that more job seekers are relocating now more than ever. Did you know that a surprising 40% of households were living in an apartment by choice? With the ever-increasing diversity of the population, the preferences have changed to prefer apartments that offer the conveniences of being closer to work, shopping, dining and entertainment areas.

Photo courtesy of 2. I don't want to pay more $$

You've heard: Renting is too expensive.Reality: The key word is flexibility. When leasing an apartment, you have the benefit of choosing between short and long-term leases or transferring between communities. Keep in mind that, although the monthly payment may seem low, most home buying involves a large down payment, property taxes and unforeseen maintenance costs. Did you know? With Camden apartments, once approved, residents can upgrade to larger apartments within the same community or transfer to another Camden property nationwide. It's just one of the perks of being a Camden resident! (If you are a current resident, you can contact your leasing consultants to see if you qualify.)

Photo courtesy of 3. The Deal Roommates

You've heard: If my roommate does not pay rent, it is not my responsibility.Reality: Don't be fooled. As long as you are both named leaseholders, both of you bear the burden of paying any balances that are due regardless if your roommate cannot make rent.

Photo courtesy of 4. Maintenance! Enough said.

You've heard: The property manager is responsible for paying for replacing, big or small, damages on items that are originally in the apartment.Reality: Property management is generally only responsible for overall maintenance of the apartment and not the cosmetic damages such as a scratched up countertops, doors or floors. Camden's mission statement, "Living Excellence," is a top priority and is derived from a culture of customer service that each leasing team is trained to embody. Did you know that as a Camden resident, both cable tv and internet is included with rent? That's #LivingExcellence.

Photo courtesy of 5. Pet-friendly

You've heard: Large dogs are easily blacklisted.Reality: It's not his bark, but the size of his bite. While you might love your dog, dog bites account for a third of all insurance claims paid out in 2013. Did you know that dog bites are a major financial burden, not only for the insurance company but also for the owner? The cost is high: the loss of your pet and liability damages ($300k on average).

I hope these tips have better prepared you for the search for the next place you will call home!