Luxury amenities vs space?

[gizmo980]

Thanks for the input, everyone! I'm not ready to sign a lease yet, since I still need to officially lock down the job... but these are both "high turnover" complexes, so I'm sure they will have vacancies when I'm ready. Still leaning towards the 1br (luxury amenities), but I'll need to thoroughly shop around before deciding anything.

[Marlow]

I'd go with the one that gives you the best feeling when you walk in. Does it feel like home? Will you feel safe and peaceful there? Based on your descriptions I think you feel better about the smaller, more luxurious one.

[Kris000]

I would definitely choose the smaller apartment with better amenities and a more luxurious feel. Aesthetics are very important to me, so I'd rather have a place that is small and cozy but really nice than a spacious place that is kinda dumpy. Also, I have lived in places both with and without pools and fitness centers, and I definitely enjoy having those amenities and find that they are a cheap form of entertainment and fitness.