Buying vs. Renting Furnished One-Bedroom Apartments: Which Is Better for Your Situation?
/Are you a student shifting from your place to Ithaca but don't know whether to buy a property or rent furnished one-bedroom apartments near you?
Then you are reading the right blog.
Renting and buying are different prospects, and choosing between them may confuse you, as both are good ideas but depend on your needs and budget and other factors.
In today's blog we will make sure that you choose the right decision for staying in Ithaca.
Benefits and Disadvantages of Renting and Buying
As a student in Ithaca, choosing where to stay often comes down to one big decision: should you buy a furnished one-bedroom apartment or simply rent one? When you search for a darned one-bedroom apartment near you, you are really trying to find what fits your academic life, budget, and flexibility.
Renting Furnished One-Bedroom Apartments
Before making any choice between apartments for rent furnished or buying, look at the following points to make a better decision:
Benefits
Ready to Move Space
If you are a student arriving in Ithaca with limited luggage, a furnished apartment saves you from buying or carrying anything. You walk in and start living.
Perfect For Short Stays
If you are in the city for a semester or a 1-2 year program, renting keeps life simple. No long-term commitments or property responsibilities.
No Furniture Headaches
If you hate the idea of setting up apartments from scratch, renting a furnished apartment is perfect for you. Everything you need—beds, sofas, tables, and appliances—is already in place.
Law Maintenance Stress
If something breaks, you can simply inform your landlord. It’s ideal when you’re busy with classes, assignments, and campus life.
Easy to Move Out
If you often shift dorms or apartments, renting helps you leave without worrying about packing or selling furniture.
Cost
Renting gives freedom and reduces cost as compared to buying one. The report says, “Monthly rent payments are generally more predictable and do not include property taxes, major repairs, or unexpected upkeep.”
Disadvantages
Higher rent compared to unfurnished units.
High demand during student season limits many options.
Buying Furnished One-Bedroom Apartments
Benefits
Long-Term Stability
If you plan to stay in Ithaca long after completing your studies, buying a 1-bedroom apartment offers stability and long-term security.
You Own Everything
If you like controlling your space design, furniture upgrades, and decor, this ownership gives you full freedom.
Investment Value
If your family wants to invest, the apartment can be rented later and can be given high profits.
Disadvantages
“The average budget for buying a property is a bit costly for most of the students to afford.” (source)
The maintenance cost is higher as compared to rental.
Comparison Table: Buying vs. Renting Furnished One-Bedroom Apartments
| Factor | Rental | Buying |
|---|---|---|
| Upfront Cost | Low; ideal if you are on a budget and need something immediately | Very high; requires a down payment, mortgage approval, and long-term financial commitment |
| Commitment Level | Short-term friendly; perfect if you are staying for 6–24 months | Long-term; suitable only if you plan to live in Ithaca for several years |
| Flexibility | High; easy to move when your course ends or you change apartments | Low; selling or renting out the property takes time and effort |
| Maintenance | Mostly handled by the landlord, reducing stress during exams and college life | Fully your responsibility, including repairs, taxes, and upkeep |
| Furniture and Setup | Fully ready to move; great if you want convenience and no shopping | Already furnished, but you handle replacements or upgrades |
| Best For | Students who want convenience, budget control, and freedom to move | Long-term residents and families looking for investment value |
Overview
Choosing between buying and renting a furnished one-bedroom apartment is never a one-size-fits-all decision. Both options offer comfort, convenience, and a ready-to-live setup, so on the surface, they seem equally good.
Buying gives long-term stability and ownership, while renting delivers flexibility and ease.
But when you look closely at the differences in cost, commitment, mobility, and maintenance, you’ll notice that renting naturally fits the lifestyle of someone who needs freedom, shorter stays, and predictable monthly expenses.
Buying may work for individuals planning to settle for years, but students and short-term residents often need something more adaptable. In every feature we compare upfront investment, ease of moving, responsibility, and long-term risk.
Renting consistently sits one step above because it removes stress, reduces financial pressure, and works seamlessly with a changing academic or early-career life.
Why West Shore Apartments Is the Ideal Choice for Cornell Students
Family-Owned Support
As a trusted second-generation local business, you work directly with the owners—not a corporate office. This means personal guidance, quick responses, 24/7 support, and help from people who truly understand student life because they’ve been Cornell parents and students themselves.
Modern Online Convenience
Everything is designed to make renting simple: a mobile app, an online tenant portal, secure digital payments, individual tenant log-ins, and an easy online maintenance request system. It’s fast, student-friendly, and stress-free from day one.
Prime Ithaca Locations
Most properties are within walking distance of Cornell or Ithaca College, with bike racks, covered/uncovered parking, and convenient access to TCAT bus routes connecting Collegetown, downtown, and campus. Commuting becomes effortless and affordable.
Fully Furnished, Comfortable Living
Apartments come move-in ready with Wi-Fi, laundry access, kitchen appliances (including dishwasher), storage closets, large shelving, hardwood floors, high ceilings, and select units featuring balconies, fireplaces, or beautiful views. Smaller buildings (six units or fewer) create a friendly, community feel.
Beautiful Cayuga Lake Option
For students who want a peaceful, scenic lifestyle, the Cayuga Lake West Shore apartments offer beach and dock access and are just 10 minutes from campus.
FAQ
Are the apartments fully furnished?*
Yes, most units come move-in ready with essential furniture and kitchen appliances.
How close are the rentals to Cornell University?
Many properties are walkable, while others are just a short TCAT bus ride or 10-minute drive.
Do I get direct support from the owners?
Yes. As a family-owned business, you communicate directly with the owners for any help.
Can I handle everything online?
Absolutely. You can sign leases, pay rent, and submit maintenance requests through the online portal or mobile app.
Is maintenance easy to request?
Yes. Just submit an online form, and the team responds quickly—support is available 24/7 for urgent issues.
Final Thought
Choosing between buying and renting furnished apartments for rent near Ithaca depends on your lifestyle, but renting often offers more freedom, lower risk, and zero maintenance stress. With West Shore Apartments, you get safe, affordable, student-friendly accomdation without long commitments. It’s a flexible, practical choice that lets you focus on your goals while living comfortably.
