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IELTS Recent Questions: Some people prefer to live in a house, while others feel there are more advantages to living in an apartment. Are there more advantages than disadvantages?

Updated: Jun 25, 2025


IELTS student with the IELTS band score 6 & 7.5 in IELTS exam

For IELTS students aiming for success in the IELTS exam, one of the most effective ways to prepare is by using IELTS recent questions. These up-to-date resources provide insight into the current structure and expectations of the test, allowing you to familiarise yourself with real exam scenarios. Regular practice with these questions not only sharpens your test-taking strategies but also boosts your confidence and helps you stay aligned with the actual exam format.


Whether you are studying independently or enrolled in IELTS coaching, integrating IELTS recent questions into your study routine ensures that your preparation is both focused and relevant. To illustrate the benefits of this method, let’s explore a recent IELTS practice question and see how it can support more effective exam-ready preparation.


Some people prefer to live in a house, while others feel there are more advantages to living in an apartment. Are there more advantages than disadvantages of living in a house compared with living in an apartment?


IELTS Band Score - 6

Some people like living in houses, while others think apartments are better. Both types of accommodation have their own good and bad points. In my opinion,  I believe that living in a house has more benefits than drawbacks.


To begin with, one of the biggest advantages of living in a house is space. In detail, houses usually have more rooms, a backyard, and sometimes a garden, which is useful for families with children. Moreover, People also get more privacy in houses because they are not surrounded by many neighbours like in apartments. Also, houses can be a good investment if the value goes up over time.


However, houses are usually more expensive to buy or rent. They also cost more to maintain. For example, owners must pay for things such as, plumbing, electricity, and garden care. In contrast, apartments are usually cheaper and easier to manage because there is building management to take care of maintenance.


Even though there are some disadvantages, I still believe that living in a house is better because of the extra space and privacy. These are important for people who want a peaceful and comfortable life.


To sum up, living in a house has more advantages, especially for families. While the costs can be high, the benefits such as space and freedom make it a better choice for many people.



IELTS Band Score - 7.5

People’s preferences regarding their living arrangements vary significantly. Some favour houses for the freedom and space they offer, while others find apartments more convenient. While both have their own pros and cons, I believe that the advantages of living in a house outweigh the disadvantages, especially for those who value space and independence.


To commence with, living in a house generally provides more space, both indoors and outdoors. This is especially beneficial for families with children or those who enjoy gardening, hosting gatherings, or owning pets. Furthermore, houses usually offer more privacy as compared to apartments, where noise from neighbours can be a regular disturbance. Moreover, another significant advantage is that house owners have greater control over modifications and can personalise their space without needing permission from a landlord or building management.


However, houses are often more expensive to purchase or rent, particularly in urban areas. Maintenance is also more demanding—house owners are responsible for repairs, lawn care, and overall upkeep, which can be time-consuming and costly. In contrast, apartments often come with maintenance services, making them less of a burden in terms of day-to-day management. They are also typically located in central areas, closer to public transport, shopping centres, and workplaces, which is a major benefit for city dwellers.


In conclusion, while apartments offer convenience and affordability, houses provide more space, privacy, and freedom—qualities that are highly valued by many people. Therefore, in my opinion, the benefits of living in a house outweigh the drawbacks, particularly for those who prioritise comfort and independence over convenience.


Points to remember : 


Advantages of Living in a House:


1.     More Space:

Houses generally offer large living areas, more rooms, and outdoor space like gardens or backyards.

2.     Privacy:

Detached or semi-detached houses offer more privacy as you’re not sharing walls or floors with neighbours.


3.     Freedom to Modify:

You can renovate, paint, and decorate your house more freely without needing landlord approval.


4.     Suitable for Families:

Houses are often better suited for families with children or pets due to the space and private outdoor areas.


5.     Parking Facilities:

Many houses come with private garages or driveways, reducing the hassle of finding parking.


6.     Long-Term Investment:

Buying a house can be a valuable long-term asset with potential appreciation in property value.

 


Disadvantages of Living in a House:


1.     Higher Costs:

Maintenance, utilities, taxes, and insurance costs are usually higher than for an apartment.


2.     More Maintenance:

Homeowners are responsible for all repairs, gardening, and upkeep.


3.     Location Limitations:

Houses may be located farther from city centres, making commuting more time-consuming.


4.     Security Concerns:

Compared to apartments with gated entries or security systems, houses may be more vulnerable to break-ins.


 

Advantages of Living in an Apartment (in contrast):


1.     Lower Maintenance:

Maintenance is often handled by the building management.


2.     Better Amenities:

Many apartments offer shared facilities like gyms, pools, and security services.


3.     Urban Convenience:

Apartments are typically closer to workplaces, public transport, and entertainment.


4.     Affordability:

Generally more affordable than houses in prime locations.



Success in the IELTS exam depends on smart IELTS preparation, and staying familiar with every recent IELTS question is key. Envertiz Academy offers trusted, up-to-date resources to keep your preparation focused, effective, and exam-ready.


 
 
 

3 Comments


The IELTS question about whether living in a house or an apartment has more advantages requires you to present a balanced argument, discuss pros and cons, and reach a clear conclusion. Structuring your essay with a strong introduction, supporting paragraphs, and a conclusion can help you achieve a higher band score. Practicing such analytical writing not only improves your IELTS performance but also develops skills in reasoning, clarity, and structured communication—qualities that are highly valued in competitive academic applications, such as the MIT admissions process, where strong writing and critical thinking are essential.

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Very informative essay on comparing houses and apartments! As a study abroad aspirant, I find posts like this helpful for improving my English skills. Along with reading such essays, practising with tools like a TOEFL exam pattern and marks guide and regular IELTS reading practice test sessions really strengthens comprehension and boosts confidence for real exams. Thanks for sharing these useful insights!

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Tarun Sharma
Tarun Sharma
Dec 27, 2025

Both living in a house and an apartment have their own advantages and disadvantages. Apartments often offer better security, lower maintenance responsibilities, and convenient access to facilities like gyms, parking, and public transport, making them ideal for students and working professionals. Houses, on the other hand, provide more space, privacy, and freedom for families. In today’s fast-paced lifestyle, apartments can be more practical and cost-effective, especially in urban areas. Similarly, students planning to study abroad look for affordable and supportive options, where opportunities like the university of texas dallas Scholarship help reduce financial pressure and make quality education more accessible.

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