The Ultimate Apartment Checklist: Is Your Next Home Generic or Gem?

Have you ever walked into an apartment tour and felt a strange sense of déjà vu? You walk through the door, and it looks exactly like the last three places you visited. The same grey plank flooring, the same white walls, the same long, hotel-style hallways. It’s clean, sure—but does it feel like home?

In the rush to find a place to live, it is easy to prioritize the basics—price, bedroom count, move-in date—and forget about the feeling of the space. But where you live shapes your daily mood. Do you want to live in a carbon copy, or do you want a space that has a little bit of soul?

To help you decide, we have created a different kind of Apartment Checklist. This isn't just about counting closets; it’s about grading the lifestyle and the atmosphere. Print this out, take it with you on your weekend tours, and see if the competition has any real character. (We have already filled it out for Mansion Row to show you what a difference a little history makes!)

The Personality Assessment (Aesthetics)

We are living in the era of the "grey box" apartment. Developers are building fast, and often that means sacrificing architectural detail for speed. If you are someone who appreciates craftsmanship, unique angles, or just something that doesn't look like a showroom, you need to look harder.

The Checklist Item: Does the home offer unique architectural details or just standard finishes?

How Mansion Row Measures Up: Unique Character. We are the antidote to the "cookie-cutter" apartment. Our community is anchored by a stunning historic mansion, giving the entire property a sense of timeless elegance. This isn't just a façade; it is the heart of our property. We offer Vintage and Eclectic floor plans within the mansion itself that feature the kind of quirks and charm you simply cannot build today. Living here means your home is a conversation starter, not just a place to sleep.

The "Choose Your Own Adventure" Test (Variety)

Usually, when you visit a community, you have one choice: the standard unit. If you don't like the style, you have to leave. But what if you love the location but want a different vibe inside?

The Checklist Item: Does the community offer different interior styles to match my taste?

How Mansion Row Measures Up: Yes. We understand that not everyone wants a vintage aesthetic. That is why we offer a distinct choice. You can opt for the historic charm of the mansion, or you can choose one of our Traditional Updated apartment homes. These layouts offer a familiar, comfortable feel with open spaces and reliable conveniences, while still allowing you to enjoy the beautiful grounds. Whether you are an "old soul" or prefer a "clean slate," we have a front door for you.

The Fresh Air Factor (Surroundings)

Urban living often comes with a compromise: you get the city, but you lose the trees. You end up looking at a parking garage or a brick wall. But studies show that being near green space lowers stress and improves happiness.

The Checklist Item: Is the property surrounded by nature or concrete?

How Mansion Row Measures Up: Surrounded by Green. This is one of our best-kept secrets. Despite being so close to the city center, our community feels like a park. We are situated right next to the Coffin Golf Course and the expansive Riverside Park. Instead of traffic, you are surrounded by mature trees and open skies. Plus, for the cyclists and runners out there, the White River Trail is practically your neighbor. It is the perfect spot to decompress after a long day of work or classes.

The Campus Connection (Location)

For students, faculty, or staff at Marian University, the commute is often the biggest stressor. Fighting for parking spots on campus or sitting in traffic on 38th Street can ruin your morning.

The Checklist Item: Is the commute to campus or downtown under 10 minutes?

How Mansion Row Measures Up: Yes. We are incredibly convenient for the Marian University community—you are practically on campus, but with the independence of your own off-campus residence. For those working at IUPUI or in the downtown circle, you are just a quick drive south. You get the benefit of a quiet, residential atmosphere while keeping the city’s resources within arm's reach.

The "Peace and Quiet" Quotient

Many apartment buildings are constructed with thin materials right next to busy highways. You might not notice it during a 15-minute tour, but you will definitely notice it when you are trying to sleep or study on a Tuesday night.

The Checklist Item: Is the community set back from the noise?

How Mansion Row Measures Up: Yes. Because of our historic roots and our placement near the golf course, Mansion Row offers a level of tranquility that is rare in Indianapolis. The property is set back and shielded by greenery, creating a peaceful retreat. It is the kind of place where you can actually hear the birds chirping in the morning.

The Daily Convenience Audit

Charm is great, but you still need to live your life. You need to wash your clothes, park your car, and work out. Historic buildings sometimes lack these practical elements—but not here.

The Checklist Item: Are there on-site laundry facilities and a fitness center?

How Mansion Row Measures Up: Yes. We bridge the gap between historic appeal and everyday necessity. Our community features a 24-hour fitness center, so you can get your reps in on your own schedule without paying for a gym membership. We also provide convenient clothing care centers and, crucially, ample off-street parking. In this part of town, knowing you have a spot waiting for you is a huge relief.

The Pet Welcome

Some places "allow" pets, but they don't really welcome them. If you have to walk your dog on a busy sidewalk with no grass in sight, it’s not ideal for you or your furry friend.

The Checklist Item: Is there actual grass for my dog to walk on?

How Mansion Row Measures Up: Yes. Our park-like setting makes us a fantastic choice for pet owners. There is plenty of room to stretch your legs and enjoy a morning stroll on the grounds. We know that pets are family, and we are happy to discuss our pet policy details with you to make sure your four-legged roommate feels right at home.

The Verdict

If you are tired of touring apartments that all look and feel the same, it might be time to change your criteria. You don't have to settle for a generic box. You can have a home with history, variety, and a connection to nature.

Mansion Row offers a living experience that stands out from the crowd. Whether you fall in love with the quirks of our Eclectic mansion floor plans or the comfort of our Traditional Updated homes, you will find a community that feels welcoming and unique.

Ready to see something different? Grab your checklist and come visit us. We would love to show you the mansion, the grounds, and the lifestyle that awaits you here. Check our availability and book your tour today!