Efficiency Vs. Studio Apartment

For a young, single professional who spends most of the day away from home, you just can't beat a studio apartment. Or is it an efficiency? Realtors and rental agencies often use the two terms interchangeably. But you may find studios that are bigger than efficiencies, or efficiencies that are far more expensive than studios. This underscores the importance of shopping around and touring the apartment before signing the lease.

No Bedrooms

Efficiencies and studios are one-room apartments. You'll sleep and lounge just steps away from the kitchen. Some efficiencies and studios are advertised as "junior one-bedrooms," meaning they have an alcove where the tenant can tuck the bed away.

Separate Bathrooms

No matter whether the apartment is advertised as a studio or an efficiency, it must have a separate and private bathroom, according to the U.S. Department Of Housing And Urban Development's guide to public housing.

Kitchens

Studios and efficiencies often have basic kitchens (sink, cabinets, refrigerator and counter space) or may even have small-scale appliances such as stoves and ovens.

Size

While studios and efficiencies generally are the smallest apartments on the rental market, the terms are used only to describe their layout: One room, one bathroom. They can be cramped, windowless spaces or large, cavernous top-floor penthouses. Some studios or efficiencies may be advertised as "lofts."

Know What You're Getting

Housinginfo.com recommends that prospective renters see studios and efficiencies first because rental agencies use the terms interchangeably--it's the only way to be sure what you're getting.

References

• Housinginfo.com
• New York Real Estate Definitions
• Housing And Urban Development