It's amazing, having the freedom to do whatever to the property without having to plan for returning it to a neutral state. Yeah you end up being responsible for any problems, but equally you can choose how to fix them or not. Landlords tend to be fairly unwilling to fix small problems and are often slow to react to bigger ones (no heating, or hot water, etc) in my experience.
My first very own place was a condo. The real estate lady had taken me to see maybe six places in my price range, but things were awkward, size, location, etc. We went to this building and I really liked the location, on an easy bus line to work. The first condo was okay, but unexpectedly, we got to see a second one that I knew I wanted to put in an offer. The only shocking thing to me was the black & white, on the diagonal, tile scheme. I thought, this is a love it or hate moment, and I loved it! 😅
I forgot to mention that it was a one bedroom, with enclosed balcony. No ensuite laundry, had to go to the laundry room. The building had originally been an apt block, built in the 70s, it had a pool, hot tub, & sauna. I was there also 20yrs before I inherited my parents' big 100yr old house across town that I've been in for 5yrs now.
Getting my very own place was bitter-sweet. My ex and I were permitted to live there rent free while I was completing my Phd. But, my father-in-law died suddenly, and my mother-in-law asked us to pay the mortgage for her. In order to do this and get the tax deduction, I had to refinance the place in my own name. Because of some arcane California tax laws, the taxes on that place have remained so extremely low that it makes no sense to sell it and find a bigger place. So, there was no moment of joy in getting my own place because it happened in the death of my former father-in-law.
I fully understand what you mean. I bought my own house when I was 23. It was unusual for a girl to buy on their own then but I wanted the security. It was a terraced property built in 1899 but it had a living room, large kitchen dining room, two bedrooms and a bathroom. There was a back yard with a small flower bed and a small front garden. I loved that house and it was quite a wrench to sell it when I married my husband. He understandably wanted a home together and not feel like a lodger. I put in new kitchen units and redecorated and put new carpets down. It was so nice to feel it was mine. I even got a puppy in that first year. An old English sheepdog called Daisy who really made it a home. She was a big dog and made me feel so safe and gave me loyalty and love.
In USA & many other countries, the Tiny House trend is popular. So, your tiny apartment is right on trend. It looks very comfortable. I would like the ground floor.
I have two suggestions, one about the apartment and one about the temperature Get rid of most of your belongings (or mail some to Belarus) and rent out the apartment while you’re gone, you don’t want to pay both mortgage and rent, it makes financial sense to rent it. Even if the furniture gets a bit of wear and tear it’s not irreplaceable About the apartment being cold, I actually had to do that fairly recently (when we built our house) and it’s not as expensive as you might think: the windows are poor quality, replace them with windows with more chambers, you’ll be shocked by the difference in both heat/cold insulation and noise supression. Also, this one is a bit messy though, consider insulating at least two of the walls (the ones exposed to the outside) with insulation tiles, that makes a huge difference too. PS I’m Romanian, not a rich person who goes around saying “you should buy this and that”, but I think it’s worth doing those things for your comfort and health (and in our case to lower the heating bills that exploded post sanctions). If you plan to keep the apartment and live in it, obviously. PPS That law probably won’t apply to you, you’re not an oligarch living in Monaco or anything, plus a woman (no draft) and I imagine a dual citizen not just Russian.
Well if they decide that they want to expropriate, they could say that by leaving the country she is a foreign agent or an enemy of the state or whatever they're calling them this week. Because they are vindictive and because if there's any money for the government to get from it, then why wouldn't they? But perhaps you are right. We can always hope. Renting it out seems like a good idea if it's possible to do so And I don't know whether it would cost you too much in electricity or whether these items are available in your country, but two years ago my brother had to buy me a space heater for my bedroom which is probably the size of your living room bedroom. At least they make them better these days and they are less likely to tip over and burn down your house. That used to be a problem. Now I think they have a little button on the bottom that shuts them off if they tip over. But even as it was I had to stack up three milk crates and put it on top of the milk crates across from my bed. But at least it was small and portable. I don't know how much the electricity went up. Also back in 2008 when we had the recession, someone created this thing called a snuggie. I think that's what it was called. And it was just like a giant Jersey bathrobe with a hood and long sleeves and you could put it on top of your clothes if you were sitting around. Also I have, instead of an electric blanket which I've had since I was six, when I was like 24 I got an electric mattress pad, which obviously goes underneath your sheet, and that was a good thing because I already had my electric blanket underneath me instead of on top of me. The first one I had until I got married the second one I had for 13 years and since I've moved to Florida I've gone through like four of them. Finally I got a surge suppressor. The problem with this one is it's warmer at the top underneath my shoulders And it's really not warm underneath my feet, which would be more helpful. But maybe you can find a better one. Or you know I could wear socks. Back in the olden days I think they put bricks in the oven and then took them out and wrapped them in blankets or towels and put them in the bed before bedtime. Just make sure that they won't explode. Do you remember back in the olden days when we used to be able to put our hands up on top of our monitors because at least our monitors were warm? Well we took care of that and now they aren't warm anymore. But I guess they take up less space and possibly less electricity. Sorry about your creaky neighbor. I didn't know you could go to the police about somebody's music. My next door neighbor when I had just a room in Waltham which is near Boston, sometimes she used to smoke pot. And yes it was illegal back then and now it's not - but I don't live there anymore - but I was afraid to call the police. But the smell really made me sick to my stomach. With my roommate, I don't cook fish (I don't like it anyway) And when he makes corned beef and cabbage, he does it in a crock pot in the garage. I appreciate that. And I don't think either one of us likes liver. Yuck! But I swear, the things that men use to wash their bodies not to mention the occasional cologne is stronger than the stuff that women wear. It's awful and it gives me a sore throat. Thankfully everybody's mostly working at home so they don't get all spiffed up very often. And everyone has their own bedroom. I would tell you what we use to block out the noise but it's our air conditioners. We each have our own. Our central air conditioning is dead and that's fine because we all like different temperatures. So in the summer it's only really hot in the living room and the dining room and the kitchen and by the way our heat is broken as well so during that brief period when it gets cold in Florida, it's cold. Between the time I left home and the time I moved to Florida with my mother I lived in six different places. The longest was 13 years and the shortest was 2 weeks. The 13 years was an anomaly. It was a nice apartment and it wasn't modern or anything but it was warm and we didn't have to pay for the heat
I agree wth Minime, Kseneia, it is your apartment now, you could try to rent it out while you are gone. As your real estate person about this option and if they could handle this for you.
We recently purchased a condominium. We have 3 bedrooms a living room dining room kitchen and 2 bathrooms. I love this life. We are on the third floor. No one is above us. There are two units below. We have a screened balcony. I love not renting anymore and having the balcony to go outside without bugs. We had one bad experience renting and one not so bad experience. I really hope I don’t have to rent again. The peace of owning is priceless.
I stayed for several days in a very similar place, also on the ground floor, in Kazakstan. I visited my "adopted" Kazakhstani family several years ago and stayed in one of the 3 bed rooms in their place. It was also built at the same time yours was built. The lay out, except for more bed rooms was almost identical to your place. Both of their daughters who got Russian citizenship while going to college in Russia have now relocated to the west. The younger one got her masters here in the U S and is now working in Seattle. The older daughter is in Mexico City and having a challenging time adjusting because they don't speak any English there, and she is forced to learn Spanish. Their first language is of course Russian and second is English, like yourself.
Your apartment is definitely what we here in the UK 🇬🇧🇬🇧 would call A Studio Flat. That means the bed is in the living room. Sometimes even the kitchen is in the living room, but with a separate bathroom. I am very happy you are on the ground floor, because you have an emergency exit which is very important. If you cover the windows with a thick clear plastic sheeting in the winter this will make an enormous difference to the temperature. I have just done this with a room which was always cold - now much improved ‼️😀😀
the term "studio" is a very American term and is a recent/ recent modern arrival in the UK 2000's . They use to use the term "rooms", like how she is using it. 1 room, 2 room, 3 room.
I haven't been expecting anything good from the government for many years already. So, yeah. I know. But prior to thinking of selling or not selling the apartment, I need to get my relocation visa which I've been waiting for over a year now.
I think that your flat is nice and confortable, as you have everything you need, even if it is not so big.The most important thing is that it is yours. Thanks a lot Ksenia for sharing your thoughts and feelings about your home.
My old condos had a noise limit... after 11pm ... no music ... that way there is still time to listen to it. But a gift of an area rug to your neighbor might be the best investment you could make in the prevention of footstep sounds long term😺
Very nice. In USA we call your apartment as either a Studio or Efficiency. If the bedroom has a dividing wall and door then we would call it a One Bedroom Apartment (if you rent) or One Bedroom Condo (if you own the unit).
Oh, seems like pretty much the same. But I thought that American 1 bd apt must have a living room combined with a kitchen and a separate bedroom for sleeping.
You have to think vertically. Just like you have the shelving units, think about a couple units or shelves that attach to the walls with decorative bins. Something you can reach with a step stool that folds so it can be stored under the bed or hung from the wall.
There are also inexpensive bed risers, you could probably store a suitcase laying on its side. (Risers come in a set of 4, one for each caster of the bedframe.)
I just purchased bed risers! I got two suitcases and an old dress drawer under it. I use the drawer for bulky stuff like extra blankets and clothes I’m not using in the season! Please don’t sell your home. I’m 48 and am still renting. Rent it out while you’re gone! If you can! Best of luck to you! ❤
@@dianedenham5259 excellent. She needs to learn simple carpentry. She could make a captains bed. A platform and drawers under the bed. And yes, vertically everywhere.
Ksenia, you are extremely great at communications, you always tell us how things are good or bad for you. We appreciated this a lot. Wishing you good luck in your future working conditions. Salutations from Montreal, Canada.
Just a tiny contribution to your future plans. Don't worry too much, please. When you get to Bulgaria you will have plenty of new and exciting things to focus on. Good luck!
I love all your videos and love seeing new ones! Your apartment is very nice. You should be proud of this achievement and investment. And speaking English so well! Keep up the good work! Hope your mom is doing well .
It's such a shame you get very little sun - my sun is on the front then moves across to the back - but for one hour it is behind the house (around 1pm) and the temperature drops - until it gets to the other side and is warmer again. Not too bad in the summer but bad in winter. When I bought my first house (I'm in the UK 🇬🇧🇬🇧) I was elated, very happy, it's a lovely feeling of security and calm. I know exactly how you felt 😄😄‼️ I have moved to different houses several times now, but it's lovely knowing it's mine each time I move. I did rent when I was young, for about 9 years. You were very lucky to get all the ikea furniture with your home - your suitcase can go under the bed perhaps 🤔 and clothes dry quickly in the bathroom, if you have a window in there 🤔 or put the airer in the kitchen because you are not in there for long, just to cook and eat 🤔. Layer your clothes in the winter and close the doors to keep heat in each room. Can you not buy a small heater to help, perhaps ❓ Thanks for an interesting video, Xenia 💚
Yes, I live in a 100yr old house on west coast Canada. I was a senior already when I inherited it, so I'm planning my estate, such as it is, for my two adult children when I die. This house is in a prime redevelopment area, so I expect it will be torn down when they sell it. SO, I don't want to waste money on "fixing it up". I already had to replace several things, like furnace, water heater, sewer line, a shower, took down an unsafe chimney.... But new windows are not a priority, so I've put up interior plastic, foam insulation board, & heavy drapes. I go through a lot of furnace fuel in winter so try to keep it down to 67f/20c. A couple degrees can mean not having to buy another tank of oil. This winter my son & I used two tanks, but winters prior when I also had a couple students I had it at 68 or 69 it was 3 tanks, on a new furnace. 🙄 Now with summer starting I've mylared the west facing windows to control the heat. If it's not one thing it's another. 😆
Spray your windows with water and buy some thick bubble wrap. Cut the bubble wrap to the shape of the glass and the water will hold the bubble wrap to the glass. It makes a big difference to the heat staying in or keeping some cold out..
I know you don't like the idea but I think renting out your apartment when you leave is the best temporary solution. As for rental money reaching you, could you set up the account with a family member who could then forward it to you? I know in an ideal world it would be lovely for you to return to a peaceful Russia, and that's why you need something to come back to. If it doesn't look like that's going to happen when you have to make your next decision, sell up from a distance. Many do that. You'd not heard from the authorities about your application last time you posted? You've much more patience than I have, I'd be on the phone every week now! Good luck with it all, and try to stop stressing! xx
When you own an apartment, you own a home. Owning your own home is such a wonderful feeling. I felt the same way when I bought into my building. I'd walk around, look at things, and think, this is mine. I own this. And I would smile😀It just feels like an accomplishment and it is satisfying. I still get that feeling some days and it's been 8 years for me😁 For the cold, maybe use a space heater and have that blowing the heat directly on you. I do that in my place in the Winter. I agree with you about the problem with having the apartment and that is hearing the neighbours. I can hear mine through the walls at times too. Thankfully, it's not too bad. Good topic for the video and thanks for sharing😊
invest in a good portable dehumidifier like a Mitsubishi Oasis (it should last 10 years with no problems) install a curtain rail close to the window so you have curtains that cover the glass, then your net curtains and then your big curtains. and replace your big curtains with full proper curtains with black-out curtains and buy insulating curtains for the new curtain rail against the glass. see if you can buy directional noise cancelling devices to point at the ceiling
Yes, all excellent ideas. When I moved into my parents' old house I noticed that in summer the kitchen and bathroom area was so uncomfortable, realized it was the humidity on top of the summer warmth. So I bought a small (22pint) dehumidifier that I turn on as needed, it's SO much better now.
Ksenia, Have you ever thought about sound proofing tile on the ceiling & back wall. How about a space heater or two to help keep warm throughout cold weather. Can you insulate your walls or are they Cinder block. Fluorescent/LED lights can be used to grow plants indoors. Not exactly the same thing but should work. Good Video. 🌻☀️
In America, renter's are not required to use a real estate agent but they can if they want to speed up the search for an apartment. Generally speaking, renter's have to pay 1st month's rent + last month's rent + security deposit(
You will know for the future to look for all these attributes. Sun, heat, space. I live in a one room studio with a disabled relative that visits. This is your first step. Things will change and you will be wiser. Enjoy your space as it is.
I think you have done good for yourself Ksenia! I have never own an apartment by myself but that's due to life and choice! There are pro and cons with renting and owning but our apartment are nice ( newly renovated, warm in the Winter, nice and fresh in the Summer etc ) and so is our landlord! I did move to this area with my mother and stepdad when I was 7 years old and I have rented apartments with the same landlord my whole grown up life and this Summer I will turn 58 years old. I thrive here and I don't want to move!
That's what I was thinking, a couple low wattage ones, one for under her desk for when she's sitting for extended periods of time, and one for the general area.
i was renting so decided to buy my own property which i did now i dont have to pay out rent ,i follow someone in bulgaria they bought a house for under 15k dollars with a big garden,dont you want a house in stead of an apartment ,ground floor apartments are always cold, surprised you got one on the ground floor ,although my front room is on the ground floor i have two rooms up stairs,but it does not get to cold so my ground floor room is not bad and i dont have any heating ,hope things work out for you sounds a complicated situation
@@StPetersburgme Look sweetheart, you are a self made girl, and i am certain that, you would get through it successfully. Again with best wishes but, but, be positive and optimistic.
Time to get a few tools and build shelving & storage on all that blank wall space. Build vertical and you tube will teach you. Also used drawers & cabinets can be cleaned up.
Oh lovely Ksenia, your apartment looks very beautiful with you inside... I hope you can fix the heating problem: window replacement, wall insulation, and electric heaters are options. Upper floor noise is hard to fix. It should be analysed carefully. May be if you are lucky some very affordable coatings can prevent certain of that noise. For the sun light problem, you can talk with the owner of the trees to "trim" certain branches that block day light. But beware that your flat faces north, and Sun is always toward south in your latitude. Sweetheart angel, you should've checked those details before buying the apartment. Such north facing apartments always have heating and daylight problems if they are located at such high latitudues. And if you desire more sun light and a warmer place, may be consider going mediterranian south such as Turkey, Greece, Croatia, Italy, Spain, France etc...
Thank you for your apartment tour! In the UK, we would call this a studio because there isn't a full wall with a proper door separating the living room and bedroom 🙃 Btw if you don't have storage space, where do you store your clothes? Do you hire a storage unit? As for when you move to Bulgaria, you could sub-let your apartment - the renter will pay you rent money which would then cover your mortgage payments. Not sure if that's possible/legal in Russia though!
The kitchen had a door, actually, but the previous owners dismantled it and made an arch. As for renting out, I would not trust my belongings to a Russian storage company. Maybe I'm wrong but I just don't want it. So I will not be able to rent my apt out, I think.
@@StPetersburgme The sole difference between a studio and one bedroom apartment is whether there is a full wall and door dividing the living room and bedroom. Where the kitchen is, and whether it has a door or arch is irrelevant - at least that is the case in the UK when it comes to defining apartments! Forgot to mention I thought it was interesting to hear the radiators only work in the winter. As you are the owner you have the possibility to get this changed/fixed surely?
@@mie... might be district heating, so only active during colder months. They probably expect you to supplement it with oil filled electric rads or whatever.
@@mie... no, she doesn't. It's in an apartment building and heating in controlled by management - only on from Oct - March or April I think she said (in a previous video when she first moved in).
Your apartment feel homey, to avoid cold air you could put clear giant plastic top to bottom behind the bookshelves, the more open room the more cold air free to come in or put the clear hard plastic sheet on the window to deem the cold air to comes in . You can put the cubical to put all storage inside probably Ikea carry those items. Overall nice apartment for working hard woman.
Hi Xenia, thanks again for the great analysis of the difference between owning and renting, many of us have experienced the same thing at some point in our lives. But I can only imagine how many Russian families still live in these cramped khrushchevkas from the 60s - and not all apartments may be as cozy as your own. It is really depressing to notice how in many ways the strange ambition of just one old man has already made life difficult also for many Russians. I only wish more Russians were like you...
Hi very pleased you have finally found a apartment that you now have a mortgage over it as you go on and pay and reduce the mortgage costs down, you are able to find your way much easier through daily living kis
If the bedroom and living room are not separated by a wall, it is usually considered a studio/efficiency apartment in most countries, like my place. It wouldn't be called a one bedroom apartment.
In Russia, if there's one room (no matter what it used for - a kitchen and a bathroom are not classed as rooms) it's called a one room apartment. We don't really count bedrooms specifically, in Russia a living room, for example is just a room, and if necessary could be used as a room to sleep in. We don't really say a "bedroom" in Russian - only when we speak English.
One extra storage option ksenia is putting your bed or couch on "risers". Not sure if you have them in russia but theyre like blocks you can stack furniture on to increase height. You then have space to put storage underneath. I rent a bedroom with no storage so this is what i do under my bed
It was after my father died and my mother died much earlier. So i actually felt free. I could do what i wanted , when i wanted and have privacy. I loved it, i was 21 at the time. But i had no choice except because my parents were passed on. It was good though.
💗 Ksenia you know what to do, but your mind hasn't caught up yet with your feelings yet! Indeed, you've put the practical steps in place, already! 😊 (If you are allowed to have a tenant, choose with great care! Read you mortgage clauses equally carefully!) Also, I daresay there is going to be food for thought, in the comments! My own first flat, the feeling was of power! Independence! A stakeholder in life! An investment. (I loved it even with irritating thuds from above, loud neighbours next door who were not old, one was going deaf, stealing my peace. However compassion for others, patience and tolerance, helped me. ❤😏 Oh, so much luck to you, Ksenia.🌿
Hi Ksine, I know how you feel. I rented an apartment for many years until I was able to buy one. And the conditions were very similar to yours: at least one month rent here in Argentina goes to the realtor. One month is for the guarantee so you need a lot of money to rent a new apartment. I know the stress and the anxiety of even the fantasy of not being able to rent, or having to leave your apartment for whatever reason. Here we have contracts which preserve your right to stay in the rented place for at least 2 years. The problem is that sometimes the rent goes up and it becomes impossible to keep paying it. But now you have your own place., which is great. A new chapter in your life. Maybe you can rent it while you live in another country. And probably the rent would cover the mortgage? I would hate to sell the apartment that cost me so much to buy. If I sold it I would lose the feeling of security that you describe so well. You are imaginative and creative. I'm sure you will find the way out of this labyrinth. By the way, someone said that the way out of a labyrinth is upwards. !! Be well, Ksenia.
My advice for the cold - two electric blankets, one for the sofa and one for the bed. Just turn them on when you’re home. My advice on the overall apartment situation. - Sell, sell, sell!! Put it up for sale now!! Get as far west in Bulgaria as you can and stay there. Then rent if/when the global situation cools off and you have a better idea what to do from there. It’s all about survival at this point.
How do you think I am going to get to Bulgaria? Do you know that I can't just pack a bag and go? Do you know that relocation is a complicated process of several stages? Do you know that I'm waiting for the documents for over an year already and I'm still on the first stage?
@@StPetersburgme Oh no, I didn’t realize that. I thought you could travel freely between Russia and Belarus (I meant to say Belarus, not Bulgaria) especially with your Mom being in Belarus (If I remember correctly).
@@crystalbluepersuasion1027 it's not about traveling))) Ksenia's point is about the relocation procedure being complicated. As a tourist, she can go to Bulgaria any moment as long as she has enough money for the plane fare As for Belarus, she can go there any moment as well , no problem with that. Russian citizens enter Belarus on their Russian ID, with no passport for traveling required. Whether Ksenia wants to swap Russia for Belarus is another question.
@@halkak7967 She’s talking about the stress of the new legislation (the R govt appropriating apts) and if/when she relocates. I remember her Mom lives In Belarus so I figured if she wants to relocate it’d be closer to her Mom.
@@OlgasBritishFells I'm referring to a small stand alone that can be moved to heat a single room. It could be unplugged and moved. I often use one in the bath during winter months. I turn it on when I get in the shower so I have a warm environment when I get out. Portable heat.
Strange how little protection renters have in other countries, in Belguim renters are so protected that they often exploit the protections. Can't evict on short notice even if they don't pay, courts give generous leeway and time to pay. Legally eviction notices have to be done 6 months or more in advance even if the contract is different (which it can't be as essentially everything is stipulated in the law). When entering an agreement a very detailed state of the apartment has to be made or no damages can be claimed when the renter leaves. Rent can only be increased based on official index percentages. On the other hand rental income is not taxed so there's at least that.
Hi Xenia, this is a very cute apartment and I have a few comments = For growing Tomatoes without sun, use fertilizers. For cold - use electric blanket. For noise - use Noise reduction ear muffs. I would not recommend buying apartment in Bulgaria for 2 reasons = you do not know how long you stay there, and even if you stay for long, you are not sure which city you decide to live in. About Government confiscating houses of people who leave Russia, IF it will happen, most likely it will apply only to males who left to avoid drafting to the army. Good luck.
In the US the renter does not pay the realtor to find an apartment. The commission if applicable would likely be paid by the landlord. Home ownership is a good thing worldwide. If a home is sold an escrow service is needed to make sure the seller has to resolve whatever the outstanding obligations before the new occupant takes ownership. Legally this is fairly straightforward even with an existing mortgage. In fact I believe this is the norm in America as homes changed hands very often. I wish you the best and thank you for sharing with world a glimpse "normal life" in Russia.
"There's no place like home" as Judy Garland used to say in the "Wizard of Oz". I bought a home as soon as I could in Silicon Valley, California. I bought a duplex (two connected 2 bedroom 1 bath homes attached) and became a land owner and landlord on the same day. It took me about 1 1/2 years of working in Engineering in order to afford this duplex. I had the same feeling of security that you did when you first purchased. I always now am thinking about the apartment complexes in Ukraine and the families that have been bombed out of their homes. Very depressing.
Could you put a layer of bubble wrap on your windows in winter to insulate from cold air? I know of people who do that. I don''t town if moisture build up in between would be a problem, you wouldn't want black mould.
I would describe your flat as a studio flat (I'm in the UK) as it does not have a separate living room. A one bedroomed flat here in the UK would have a separate bedroom and a living room too (as well as kitchen and bathroom).
Yes, having ones own home is important. You should get some wall shelves to help with storage, maybe even mount some cabinets. Adding some foam or egg case to the wall may help with soundproofing. Also since it is ground floor for security I would think about adding some accordion type window security grates that you can lock or unlock from the inside only. The higher up in an apartment floors you go the noisier it gets, so ground floor is good. In America department stores sell electric plug-in to wall outlet heaters usable for apartments in cold weather. There may be something similar available there. In my part of America most rental leases have a buy out clause so that if prior to the expiration of the lease the landlord wants you out through no fault of your own, they must pay you the rent amount for the remaining value of the lease until it's expiration date. Their only way out of that is wait till the end of the lease period then tell you more than 30 days prior to the expiration of the lease that they will not be offering a lease renewal. Now since you own your apartment, if you want to move, you can sell you apartment and the new buyer assumes the mortgage, plus your profit based on rising real estate values. Obviously one choice for you if you go to Bulgaria is to rent out the apartment while you are gone. In America we have real estate brokers who specialize in finding renters, collect the rent and manage the rental unit while also depositing youjr rent money into your own bank account in return for a small fee (usually maybe 5% - 10% of the rent received).
IN the United States we have what is called home owners association. (HOA). On top of my mortage each month I pay a fee to the HOA who manages and maintains the condos public spaces and passes regulations all residents must follow. Do similar organizations exist in Russia and Europe?
I would send you a space heater if I could. Maybe after the sanctons that will be possible. BTW, St. Petersburg is a beautiful city. Best of luck to you - if not your government.
We have unique terms for apartments here in the Canadian province of Quebec. A studio apartment is called a 1 and a half, the 1/2 refers to the bathroom. A studio apartment that has a separation between the sleeping area and living room is a 2-1/2, Ksenia's apartment would likely be this type here in Quebec. A 3-1/2 has one separate bedroom, 4-1/2 has 2 separate bedrooms, etc. And also here in Quebec, an apartment is a place in a building that you rent, an apartment that you own is referred here as a condo (condominium). So Kesnia, your apartment is a Western facing apartment.
Yes, the sounds of walking overhead is called "footfall" and it is so annoying! Here, most (or at least a LOT) of people sell homes under mortgage. I am curious: What is reasoning for people not wanting to buy a home under mortgage? Thanks for an insightful video, from Kansas USA 🥰🌻🌈
Yes, I'm in Canada, and as you say, people sells homes still under mortgage all the time. It's the seller's responsibility to pay off their mortgage with what they make selling it. The buyer acquires their own mortgage for whatever price they negotiated for, minus down payment.
Ksenia, I know exactly what you mean with loud neighbours living in a flat. I used to live in a flat for most of my life and also called the police a number of times. These days you get styrofoam ceiling tiles (peel and stick) which looks ornamental and blocks the sound. Maybe it's because you're on the ground floor that your flat gets so cold, it's not insulated that well and cold comes from the ground below your flat. Maybe get some thick rugs or underfloor heating. Try that, if you can get it. Nice to see you again. How's your mum doing? 🇿🇦
Rent the apartment while you're away, don't sell it, it's nice and is an asset, not a lot of people are able to own an apartment in such a beautiful city as Saint Petersburg. Rent it while you're away one year
An apartment that size would probably be around $3k a month in NYC to rent. Try putting together a first, last and deposit there to get in if accepted off waitlist. How much do you pay for a months mortgage?
How do you dry large items like bedsheets? In the USA you probably know all homes and almost all apartments have full size washer and dryer. If not in the apartments then a laundry room downstairs. There are still a very small number of people that go to laundromats to wash and dry but all very low income probably renting a single room in someones basement.
It's no fun living under someone with a squeaky and creaky old floor. There's not much you can do about it unless you can get them to insulate under or repair the floor above. You could perhaps come to a financial arrangement with them to help them pay for the work if they are interested in having it fixed.
Hi, Besides the mortgage that you mention, what other monthly carrying cost that you have to pay for this apartment? also do you own the portion of the land that you apartment is situated and do you have to pay any taxes for your apartment? thanks!
All your problems are the same if you live in the States, UK, or Italy. I feel the same I do prefer owing to pay rent, last time in London the Landlord wanted back the apartment luckily I was buying a nice apartment but is not easy. You are lucky the interest rate in Russia a lower than Western Europe.
If you intend to leave russia and never go back, I personally would try to sell it. Strange that people are hesitant about buying a mortgaged apartment. That’s the norm here. Don’t know how mortgages work in your country. Here if you sell, you pay off the mortgage with the sales proceeds. Yeah the money transfer is the big issue
Thank you for good informative video. I am japanese living in Moscow. Now one of my japnese freind in Moscow will move to China soon, so he tried to sell his own apartment but he gave up because due to sanctions there us a rule that when non friendly country nationals sell property, the money go to aome special deposit and can not use it without any permission from Russian government, and they will never permit. 😢
Leier du i Norge må du også betale tre måneder depositum, men det er også pålagt tre måneder gjensidig oppsigelse som gir en vis trygghet. Hilsen fra Vardø Norway.
Global warming will solve the heating problem. Money transfer: Maybe buy expensive, gold jewellery, expensive watch? Space issue: Consider building a "high bed", i.e. one on stilts or even made of scaffolding for a post-industrial look. The bed will then benefit from the warmer air higher up. You can then use the space under the bed as an office, for storage, etc.
Is it more like a condo? Are you part of an association? Do you pay a monthly fee just for common area cleaning and maintenance ? In the states apartments are rented only , you do not own an apartment . I am renting , lost condo to a fire almost two years ago . I am stressed . My agreement ends next month . I am hoping they let me go month to month . My condo should be ready in October . You still pay the mortgage , condo fee and some real estate taxes plus you pay rent at the temporary apartment . Now when I return I already knew the very quiet woman above me is selling . I worry I will have a small family with kids . nooooooooooooooooooooooooooo!!!! Neighbors bad . Maybe man above you bought some headphones?
What were your impressions of your first very own place to live?
It's amazing, having the freedom to do whatever to the property without having to plan for returning it to a neutral state. Yeah you end up being responsible for any problems, but equally you can choose how to fix them or not. Landlords tend to be fairly unwilling to fix small problems and are often slow to react to bigger ones (no heating, or hot water, etc) in my experience.
My first very own place was a condo. The real estate lady had taken me to see maybe six places in my price range, but things were awkward, size, location, etc. We went to this building and I really liked the location, on an easy bus line to work. The first condo was okay, but unexpectedly, we got to see a second one that I knew I wanted to put in an offer. The only shocking thing to me was the black & white, on the diagonal, tile scheme. I thought, this is a love it or hate moment, and I loved it! 😅
I forgot to mention that it was a one bedroom, with enclosed balcony. No ensuite laundry, had to go to the laundry room. The building had originally been an apt block, built in the 70s, it had a pool, hot tub, & sauna. I was there also 20yrs before I inherited my parents' big 100yr old house across town that I've been in for 5yrs now.
Getting my very own place was bitter-sweet. My ex and I were permitted to live there rent free while I was completing my Phd. But, my father-in-law died suddenly, and my mother-in-law asked us to pay the mortgage for her. In order to do this and get the tax deduction, I had to refinance the place in my own name.
Because of some arcane California tax laws, the taxes on that place have remained so extremely low that it makes no sense to sell it and find a bigger place.
So, there was no moment of joy in getting my own place because it happened in the death of my former father-in-law.
@@dianedenham5259 You do realize that you can edit your previous posts, right?
living in your own property is the best, no matter if small or big
I agree. Even my storage space I get excited to go to when it is my own.😸
I fully understand what you mean. I bought my own house when I was 23. It was unusual for a girl to buy on their own then but I wanted the security. It was a terraced property built in 1899 but it had a living room, large kitchen dining room, two bedrooms and a bathroom. There was a back yard with a small flower bed and a small front garden. I loved that house and it was quite a wrench to sell it when I married my husband. He understandably wanted a home together and not feel like a lodger. I put in new kitchen units and redecorated and put new carpets down. It was so nice to feel it was mine. I even got a puppy in that first year. An old English sheepdog called Daisy who really made it a home. She was a big dog and made me feel so safe and gave me loyalty and love.
Thank you Ksenia! It is a good feeling, when you own your home/apartment.
I’m happy for you!
In USA & many other countries, the Tiny House trend is popular. So, your tiny apartment is right on trend. It looks very comfortable. I would like the ground floor.
I have two suggestions, one about the apartment and one about the temperature
Get rid of most of your belongings (or mail some to Belarus) and rent out the apartment while you’re gone, you don’t want to pay both mortgage and rent, it makes financial sense to rent it. Even if the furniture gets a bit of wear and tear it’s not irreplaceable
About the apartment being cold, I actually had to do that fairly recently (when we built our house) and it’s not as expensive as you might think: the windows are poor quality, replace them with windows with more chambers, you’ll be shocked by the difference in both heat/cold insulation and noise supression. Also, this one is a bit messy though, consider insulating at least two of the walls (the ones exposed to the outside) with insulation tiles, that makes a huge difference too.
PS I’m Romanian, not a rich person who goes around saying “you should buy this and that”, but I think it’s worth doing those things for your comfort and health (and in our case to lower the heating bills that exploded post sanctions). If you plan to keep the apartment and live in it, obviously.
PPS That law probably won’t apply to you, you’re not an oligarch living in Monaco or anything, plus a woman (no draft) and I imagine a dual citizen not just Russian.
Well if they decide that they want to expropriate, they could say that by leaving the country she is a foreign agent or an enemy of the state or whatever they're calling them this week. Because they are vindictive and because if there's any money for the government to get from it, then why wouldn't they? But perhaps you are right. We can always hope. Renting it out seems like a good idea if it's possible to do so
And I don't know whether it would cost you too much in electricity or whether these items are available in your country, but two years ago my brother had to buy me a space heater for my bedroom which is probably the size of your living room bedroom. At least they make them better these days and they are less likely to tip over and burn down your house. That used to be a problem. Now I think they have a little button on the bottom that shuts them off if they tip over. But even as it was I had to stack up three milk crates and put it on top of the milk crates across from my bed. But at least it was small and portable. I don't know how much the electricity went up. Also back in 2008 when we had the recession, someone created this thing called a snuggie. I think that's what it was called. And it was just like a giant Jersey bathrobe with a hood and long sleeves and you could put it on top of your clothes if you were sitting around. Also I have, instead of an electric blanket which I've had since I was six, when I was like 24 I got an electric mattress pad, which obviously goes underneath your sheet, and that was a good thing because I already had my electric blanket underneath me instead of on top of me. The first one I had until I got married the second one I had for 13 years and since I've moved to Florida I've gone through like four of them. Finally I got a surge suppressor. The problem with this one is it's warmer at the top underneath my shoulders And it's really not warm underneath my feet, which would be more helpful. But maybe you can find a better one. Or you know I could wear socks. Back in the olden days I think they put bricks in the oven and then took them out and wrapped them in blankets or towels and put them in the bed before bedtime. Just make sure that they won't explode. Do you remember back in the olden days when we used to be able to put our hands up on top of our monitors because at least our monitors were warm? Well we took care of that and now they aren't warm anymore. But I guess they take up less space and possibly less electricity. Sorry about your creaky neighbor. I didn't know you could go to the police about somebody's music. My next door neighbor when I had just a room in Waltham which is near Boston, sometimes she used to smoke pot. And yes it was illegal back then and now it's not - but I don't live there anymore - but I was afraid to call the police. But the smell really made me sick to my stomach.
With my roommate, I don't cook fish (I don't like it anyway) And when he makes corned beef and cabbage, he does it in a crock pot in the garage. I appreciate that. And I don't think either one of us likes liver. Yuck! But I swear, the things that men use to wash their bodies not to mention the occasional cologne is stronger than the stuff that women wear. It's awful and it gives me a sore throat. Thankfully everybody's mostly working at home so they don't get all spiffed up very often. And everyone has their own bedroom. I would tell you what we use to block out the noise but it's our air conditioners. We each have our own. Our central air conditioning is dead and that's fine because we all like different temperatures. So in the summer it's only really hot in the living room and the dining room and the kitchen and by the way our heat is broken as well so during that brief period when it gets cold in Florida, it's cold.
Between the time I left home and the time I moved to Florida with my mother I lived in six different places. The longest was 13 years and the shortest was 2 weeks. The 13 years was an anomaly. It was a nice apartment and it wasn't modern or anything but it was warm and we didn't have to pay for the heat
PS I think your apartment is very pretty
I agree wth Minime, Kseneia, it is your apartment now, you could try to rent it out while you are gone. As your real estate person about this option and if they could handle this for you.
Totally agree!
We recently purchased a condominium. We have 3 bedrooms a living room dining room kitchen and 2 bathrooms. I love this life. We are on the third floor. No one is above us. There are two units below. We have a screened balcony. I love not renting anymore and having the balcony to go outside without bugs. We had one bad experience renting and one not so bad experience. I really hope I don’t have to rent again. The peace of owning is priceless.
I stayed for several days in a very similar place, also on the ground floor, in Kazakstan. I visited my "adopted" Kazakhstani family several years ago and stayed in one of the 3 bed rooms in their place. It was also built at the same time yours was built. The lay out, except for more bed rooms was almost identical to your place. Both of their daughters who got Russian citizenship while going to college in Russia have now relocated to the west. The younger one got her masters here in the U S and is now working in Seattle. The older daughter is in Mexico City and having a challenging time adjusting because they don't speak any English there, and she is forced to learn Spanish. Their first language is of course Russian and second is English, like yourself.
Your apartment is definitely what we here in the UK 🇬🇧🇬🇧 would call A Studio Flat.
That means the bed is in the living room. Sometimes even the kitchen is in the living room, but with a separate bathroom. I am very happy you are on the ground floor, because you have an emergency exit which is very important. If you cover the windows with a thick clear plastic sheeting in the winter this will make an enormous difference to the temperature. I have just done this with a room which was always cold - now much improved ‼️😀😀
the term "studio" is a very American term and is a recent/ recent modern arrival in the UK 2000's . They use to use the term "rooms", like how she is using it.
1 room, 2 room, 3 room.
Good luck, girl. We are also looking the the proposed initiatives. Do not expect anything good from the government.
I haven't been expecting anything good from the government for many years already. So, yeah. I know. But prior to thinking of selling or not selling the apartment, I need to get my relocation visa which I've been waiting for over a year now.
I think that your flat is nice and confortable, as you have everything you need, even if it is not so big.The most important thing is that it is yours. Thanks a lot Ksenia for sharing your thoughts and feelings about your home.
I like the painting in the rain behind you on the wall of the apartment I have the same painting in my living room In Philadelphia PA USA.
I wish you much happiness and peace in your cosy new apartment Ksenia 🧡
My old condos had a noise limit... after 11pm ... no music ... that way there is still time to listen to it. But a gift of an area rug to your neighbor might be the best investment you could make in the prevention of footstep sounds long term😺
Great points on renting vs owning it is a great feeling to own.
Thank you for watching!
Very nice. In USA we call your apartment as either a Studio or Efficiency. If the bedroom has a dividing wall and door then we would call it a One Bedroom Apartment (if you rent) or One Bedroom Condo (if you own the unit).
Oh, seems like pretty much the same. But I thought that American 1 bd apt must have a living room combined with a kitchen and a separate bedroom for sleeping.
Yeah a one bedroom apt in the USA has a separate bedroom n has a living room/dining room n has closets,separate kitchen n bathroom.
You have to think vertically. Just like you have the shelving units, think about a couple units or shelves that attach to the walls with decorative bins. Something you can reach with a step stool that folds so it can be stored under the bed or hung from the wall.
That is a good idea! Thank you!
There are also inexpensive bed risers, you could probably store a suitcase laying on its side. (Risers come in a set of 4, one for each caster of the bedframe.)
I just purchased bed risers! I got two suitcases and an old dress drawer under it. I use the drawer for bulky stuff like extra blankets and clothes I’m not using in the season! Please don’t sell your home. I’m 48 and am still renting. Rent it out while you’re gone! If you can! Best of luck to you! ❤
@@dianedenham5259 excellent. She needs to learn simple carpentry. She could make a captains bed. A platform and drawers under the bed. And yes, vertically everywhere.
I was here when you moved in. Always a pleasure seeing you Ksenia
Thank you for being with me for so long!
@@StPetersburgme I learn alot and I stay because you're a wonderful person so kind 8)
Ksenia, you are extremely great at communications, you always tell us how things are good or bad for you. We appreciated this a lot. Wishing you good luck in your future working conditions. Salutations from Montreal, Canada.
Thanks for sharing your apartment experience😊
Thank you for watching!
Hello KSENIA, I have watched your vlogs off and on for almost 1 1/2 yrs. I have noticed, your ENGLISH is getting really 👍 good.
Thank you!
Just a tiny contribution to your future plans. Don't worry too much, please. When you get to Bulgaria you will have plenty of new and exciting things to focus on. Good luck!
Congratulations on your new apartment
I love all your videos and love seeing new ones! Your apartment is very nice. You should be proud of this achievement and investment. And speaking English so well! Keep up the good work! Hope your mom is doing well .
It's such a shame you get very little sun - my sun is on the front then moves across to the back - but for one hour it is behind the house (around 1pm) and the temperature drops - until it gets to the other side and is warmer again. Not too bad in the summer but bad in winter.
When I bought my first house (I'm in the UK 🇬🇧🇬🇧) I was elated, very happy, it's a lovely feeling of security and calm. I know exactly how you felt 😄😄‼️ I have moved to different houses several times now, but it's lovely knowing it's mine each time I move. I did rent when I was young, for about 9 years.
You were very lucky to get all the ikea furniture with your home - your suitcase can go under the bed perhaps 🤔 and clothes dry quickly in the bathroom, if you have a window in there 🤔 or put the airer in the kitchen because you are not in there for long, just to cook and eat 🤔.
Layer your clothes in the winter and close the doors to keep heat in each room. Can you not buy a small heater to help, perhaps ❓
Thanks for an interesting video, Xenia 💚
Yes, I live in a 100yr old house on west coast Canada. I was a senior already when I inherited it, so I'm planning my estate, such as it is, for my two adult children when I die. This house is in a prime redevelopment area, so I expect it will be torn down when they sell it. SO, I don't want to waste money on "fixing it up". I already had to replace several things, like furnace, water heater, sewer line, a shower, took down an unsafe chimney.... But new windows are not a priority, so I've put up interior plastic, foam insulation board, & heavy drapes. I go through a lot of furnace fuel in winter so try to keep it down to 67f/20c. A couple degrees can mean not having to buy another tank of oil. This winter my son & I used two tanks, but winters prior when I also had a couple students I had it at 68 or 69 it was 3 tanks, on a new furnace. 🙄 Now with summer starting I've mylared the west facing windows to control the heat. If it's not one thing it's another. 😆
Spray your windows with water and buy some thick bubble wrap. Cut the bubble wrap to the shape of the glass and the water will hold the bubble wrap to the glass. It makes a big difference to the heat staying in or keeping some cold out..
I know you don't like the idea but I think renting out your apartment when you leave is the best temporary solution. As for rental money reaching you, could you set up the account with a family member who could then forward it to you? I know in an ideal world it would be lovely for you to return to a peaceful Russia, and that's why you need something to come back to. If it doesn't look like that's going to happen when you have to make your next decision, sell up from a distance. Many do that. You'd not heard from the authorities about your application last time you posted? You've much more patience than I have, I'd be on the phone every week now! Good luck with it all, and try to stop stressing! xx
When you own an apartment, you own a home. Owning your own home is such a wonderful feeling.
I felt the same way when I bought into my building. I'd walk around, look at things, and think, this is mine. I own this. And I would smile😀It just feels like an accomplishment and it is satisfying. I still get that feeling some days and it's been 8 years for me😁
For the cold, maybe use a space heater and have that blowing the heat directly on you. I do that in my place in the Winter.
I agree with you about the problem with having the apartment and that is hearing the neighbours. I can hear mine through the walls at times too. Thankfully, it's not too bad.
Good topic for the video and thanks for sharing😊
Good Luck. You will figure it out..
invest in a good portable dehumidifier like a Mitsubishi Oasis
(it should last 10 years with no problems)
install a curtain rail close to the window so you have curtains that cover the glass, then your net curtains and then your big curtains. and replace your big curtains with full proper curtains with black-out curtains and buy insulating curtains for the new curtain rail against the glass.
see if you can buy directional noise cancelling devices to point at the ceiling
Yes, all excellent ideas. When I moved into my parents' old house I noticed that in summer the kitchen and bathroom area was so uncomfortable, realized it was the humidity on top of the summer warmth. So I bought a small (22pint) dehumidifier that I turn on as needed, it's SO much better now.
Thanks!
Ksenia,
Have you ever thought about sound proofing tile on the ceiling & back wall.
How about a space heater or two to help keep warm throughout cold weather.
Can you insulate your walls or are they Cinder block.
Fluorescent/LED lights can be used to grow plants indoors. Not exactly the same thing but should work.
Good Video. 🌻☀️
In America, renter's are not required to use a real estate agent but they can if they want to speed up the search for an apartment. Generally speaking, renter's have to pay 1st month's rent + last month's rent + security deposit(
You will know what to do, and when the time is right. In the meantime continue to sort the facts and plan.
🖖Live long & prosper.
You sure know how to maximize your space while making it look beautiful. Take care, Ksenia.
You will know for the future to look for all these attributes. Sun, heat, space. I live in a one room studio with a disabled relative that visits. This is your first step. Things will change and you will be wiser. Enjoy your space as it is.
Your apartment would be a studio in America. The bedroom and living room are basically how yours is set up. Cute!
I think you have done good for yourself Ksenia! I have never own an apartment by myself but that's due to life and choice! There are pro and cons with renting and owning but our apartment are nice ( newly renovated, warm in the Winter, nice and fresh in the Summer etc ) and so is our landlord! I did move to this area with my mother and stepdad when I was 7 years old and I have rented apartments with the same landlord my whole grown up life and this Summer I will turn 58 years old. I thrive here and I don't want to move!
Yea, owning property is empowering. I feel it too. 💃
Congrats on getting your first apartment. It's good to have your independence. 👍🌝
Why wouldn't you buy a space heater which plugs into the electric outlet? Small heaters are very cheap in the US. Are they available in Russia?
That's what I was thinking, a couple low wattage ones, one for under her desk for when she's sitting for extended periods of time, and one for the general area.
i was renting so decided to buy my own property which i did now i dont have to pay out rent ,i follow someone in bulgaria they bought a house for under 15k dollars with a big garden,dont you want a house in stead of an apartment ,ground floor apartments are always cold, surprised you got one on the ground floor ,although my front room is on the ground floor i have two rooms up stairs,but it does not get to cold so my ground floor room is not bad and i dont have any heating ,hope things work out for you sounds a complicated situation
Life is sweet, enjoy it , face it with a peaceful mind, and pay remaining instalments of mortgage and totally own it. With best wishes.
Yes, that is one of the possibilities.
@@StPetersburgme Look sweetheart, you are a self made girl, and i am certain that, you would get through it successfully. Again with best wishes but, but, be positive and optimistic.
Time to get a few tools and build shelving & storage on all that blank wall space. Build vertical and you tube will teach you. Also used drawers & cabinets can be cleaned up.
Thanks so much for sharing your life with us. Im so fascinated by your experiences living in Russia. Much Love ❤🎉
Oh lovely Ksenia, your apartment looks very beautiful with you inside... I hope you can fix the heating problem: window replacement, wall insulation, and electric heaters are options. Upper floor noise is hard to fix. It should be analysed carefully. May be if you are lucky some very affordable coatings can prevent certain of that noise. For the sun light problem, you can talk with the owner of the trees to "trim" certain branches that block day light. But beware that your flat faces north, and Sun is always toward south in your latitude. Sweetheart angel, you should've checked those details before buying the apartment. Such north facing apartments always have heating and daylight problems if they are located at such high latitudues. And if you desire more sun light and a warmer place, may be consider going mediterranian south such as Turkey, Greece, Croatia, Italy, Spain, France etc...
Thank you for your apartment tour! In the UK, we would call this a studio because there isn't a full wall with a proper door separating the living room and bedroom 🙃 Btw if you don't have storage space, where do you store your clothes? Do you hire a storage unit? As for when you move to Bulgaria, you could sub-let your apartment - the renter will pay you rent money which would then cover your mortgage payments. Not sure if that's possible/legal in Russia though!
The kitchen had a door, actually, but the previous owners dismantled it and made an arch. As for renting out, I would not trust my belongings to a Russian storage company. Maybe I'm wrong but I just don't want it. So I will not be able to rent my apt out, I think.
@@StPetersburgme The sole difference between a studio and one bedroom apartment is whether there is a full wall and door dividing the living room and bedroom. Where the kitchen is, and whether it has a door or arch is irrelevant - at least that is the case in the UK when it comes to defining apartments! Forgot to mention I thought it was interesting to hear the radiators only work in the winter. As you are the owner you have the possibility to get this changed/fixed surely?
@@mie... might be district heating, so only active during colder months. They probably expect you to supplement it with oil filled electric rads or whatever.
@@TheErador Interesting! Thanks!
@@mie... no, she doesn't. It's in an apartment building and heating in controlled by management - only on from Oct - March or April I think she said (in a previous video when she first moved in).
Can you get a small grow light to grow plants? They are not expensive.. Cherry tomatoes, lettuce, chives and herbs work well.. Just a thought
Yes, a good idea. At first I didn't understand her discontent, but then she mentioned trying to grow veggies. Definitely need a Gro Lite.
Your apartment feel homey, to avoid cold air you could put clear giant plastic top to bottom behind the bookshelves, the more open room the more cold air free to come in or put the clear hard plastic sheet on the window to deem the cold air to comes in . You can put the cubical to put all storage inside probably Ikea carry those items. Overall nice apartment for working hard woman.
Hi Xenia, thanks again for the great analysis of the difference between owning and renting, many of us have experienced the same thing at some point in our lives. But I can only imagine how many Russian families still live in these cramped khrushchevkas from the 60s - and not all apartments may be as cozy as your own. It is really depressing to notice how in many ways the strange ambition of just one old man has already made life difficult also for many Russians. I only wish more Russians were like you...
Hi very pleased you have finally found a apartment that you now have a mortgage over it as you go on and pay and reduce the mortgage costs down, you are able to find your way much easier through daily living kis
If the bedroom and living room are not separated by a wall, it is usually considered a studio/efficiency apartment in most countries, like my place. It wouldn't be called a one bedroom apartment.
In Russia, if there's one room (no matter what it used for - a kitchen and a bathroom are not classed as rooms) it's called a one room apartment. We don't really count bedrooms specifically, in Russia a living room, for example is just a room, and if necessary could be used as a room to sleep in. We don't really say a "bedroom" in Russian - only when we speak English.
@@OlgasBritishFells oh my! No wonder Russians don’t smile much. 😞
@@BobCristofarooh my, whatever!
Great video, Ksenia!
One extra storage option ksenia is putting your bed or couch on "risers". Not sure if you have them in russia but theyre like blocks you can stack furniture on to increase height. You then have space to put storage underneath. I rent a bedroom with no storage so this is what i do under my bed
Xenia..Grow light for your tomato plants💖🌹💐
Oh, you mean special lamps, right?
I think you can get bulbs for a lamp..yes ,they are special light bulbs💖
@@berylmadison2363 I had to look these up. It looks like the plants are getting the third degree! The reviews are very positive however.
@@StPetersburgme Yes. Look for Light Emitting Diode grow lamps - these will be the least expensive to run.
Thanks for the video. It small but you own it.
It was after my father died and my mother died much earlier. So i actually felt free. I could do what i wanted , when i wanted and have privacy. I loved it, i was 21 at the time. But i had no choice except because my parents were passed on. It was good though.
💗 Ksenia you know what to do, but your mind hasn't caught up yet with your feelings yet! Indeed, you've put the practical steps in place, already! 😊
(If you are allowed to have a tenant, choose with great care! Read you mortgage clauses equally carefully!)
Also, I daresay there is going to be food for thought, in the comments!
My own first flat, the feeling was of power! Independence! A stakeholder in life! An investment. (I loved it even with irritating thuds from above, loud neighbours next door who were not old, one was going deaf, stealing my peace. However compassion for others, patience and tolerance, helped me.
❤😏 Oh, so much luck to you, Ksenia.🌿
It's better to have a cool place to live in than a hot. Maybe the windows are bit too thin for winter :)
Hi Ksine, I know how you feel. I rented an apartment for many years until I was able to buy one. And the conditions were very similar to yours: at least one month rent here in Argentina goes to the realtor. One month is for the guarantee so you need a lot of money to rent a new apartment. I know the stress and the anxiety of even the fantasy of not being able to rent, or having to leave your apartment for whatever reason. Here we have contracts which preserve your right to stay in the rented place for at least 2 years. The problem is that sometimes the rent goes up and it becomes impossible to keep paying it.
But now you have your own place., which is great. A new chapter in your life. Maybe you can rent it while you live in another country. And probably the rent would cover the mortgage? I would hate to sell the apartment that cost me so much to buy. If I sold it I would lose the feeling of security that you describe so well. You are imaginative and creative. I'm sure you will find the way out of this labyrinth. By the way, someone said that the way out of a labyrinth is upwards. !! Be well, Ksenia.
My advice for the cold - two electric blankets, one for the sofa and one for the bed. Just turn them on when you’re home.
My advice on the overall apartment situation. - Sell, sell, sell!! Put it up for sale now!! Get as far west in Bulgaria as you can and stay there. Then rent if/when the global situation cools off and you have a better idea what to do from there. It’s all about survival at this point.
How do you think I am going to get to Bulgaria? Do you know that I can't just pack a bag and go? Do you know that relocation is a complicated process of several stages? Do you know that I'm waiting for the documents for over an year already and I'm still on the first stage?
@@StPetersburgme Oh no, I didn’t realize that. I thought you could travel freely between Russia and Belarus (I meant to say Belarus, not Bulgaria) especially with your Mom being in Belarus (If I remember correctly).
@@crystalbluepersuasion1027 it's not about traveling))) Ksenia's point is about the relocation procedure being complicated. As a tourist, she can go to Bulgaria any moment as long as she has enough money for the plane fare
As for Belarus, she can go there any moment as well , no problem with that. Russian citizens enter Belarus on their Russian ID, with no passport for traveling required. Whether Ksenia wants to swap Russia for Belarus is another question.
@@halkak7967 She’s talking about the stress of the new legislation (the R govt appropriating apts) and if/when she relocates. I remember her Mom lives In Belarus so I figured if she wants to relocate it’d be closer to her Mom.
@@crystalbluepersuasion1027 at this point Russia or Belarus is like six of one, half a dozen of the other)
Thank you for the video 😊❤❤❤❤
Are there space heaters in Russia? I bet it wouldn't take much to heat your living/bedroom area.
Have a look in the video - she has a radiator under the window.
@@OlgasBritishFells I'm referring to a small stand alone that can be moved to heat a single room. It could be unplugged and moved. I often use one in the bath during winter months. I turn it on when I get in the shower so I have a warm environment when I get out. Portable heat.
Strange how little protection renters have in other countries, in Belguim renters are so protected that they often exploit the protections. Can't evict on short notice even if they don't pay, courts give generous leeway and time to pay. Legally eviction notices have to be done 6 months or more in advance even if the contract is different (which it can't be as essentially everything is stipulated in the law). When entering an agreement a very detailed state of the apartment has to be made or no damages can be claimed when the renter leaves. Rent can only be increased based on official index percentages. On the other hand rental income is not taxed so there's at least that.
Hi Xenia, this is a very cute apartment and I have a few comments = For growing Tomatoes without sun, use fertilizers. For cold - use electric blanket. For noise - use Noise reduction ear muffs. I would not recommend buying apartment in Bulgaria for 2 reasons = you do not know how long you stay there, and even if you stay for long, you are not sure which city you decide to live in. About Government confiscating houses of people who leave Russia, IF it will happen, most likely it will apply only to males who left to avoid drafting to the army. Good luck.
In the US the renter does not pay the realtor to find an apartment. The commission if applicable would likely be paid by the landlord. Home ownership is a good thing worldwide. If a home is sold an escrow service is needed to make sure the seller has to resolve whatever the outstanding obligations before the new occupant takes ownership. Legally this is fairly straightforward even with an existing mortgage. In fact I believe this is the norm in America as homes changed hands very often. I wish you the best and thank you for sharing with world a glimpse "normal life" in Russia.
Electrc heaters and an electric blanket. Ceiling fans too.
"There's no place like home" as Judy Garland used to say in the "Wizard of Oz". I bought a home as soon as I could in Silicon Valley, California. I bought a duplex (two connected 2 bedroom 1 bath homes attached) and became a land owner and landlord on the same day. It took me about 1 1/2 years of working in Engineering in order to afford this duplex. I had the same feeling of security that you did when you first purchased. I always now am thinking about the apartment complexes in Ukraine and the families that have been bombed out of their homes. Very depressing.
Could you put a layer of bubble wrap on your windows in winter to insulate from cold air? I know of people who do that. I don''t town if moisture build up in between would be a problem, you wouldn't want black mould.
I would describe your flat as a studio flat (I'm in the UK) as it does not have a separate living room. A one bedroomed flat here in the UK would have a separate bedroom and a living room too (as well as kitchen and bathroom).
Sounds like you need a space heater for your flat...
Yes, having ones own home is important. You should get some wall shelves to help with storage, maybe even mount some cabinets. Adding some foam or egg case to the wall may help with soundproofing. Also since it is ground floor for security I would think about adding some accordion type window security grates that you can lock or unlock from the inside only. The higher up in an apartment floors you go the noisier it gets, so ground floor is good. In America department stores sell electric plug-in to wall outlet heaters usable for apartments in cold weather. There may be something similar available there. In my part of America most rental leases have a buy out clause so that if prior to the expiration of the lease the landlord wants you out through no fault of your own, they must pay you the rent amount for the remaining value of the lease until it's expiration date. Their only way out of that is wait till the end of the lease period then tell you more than 30 days prior to the expiration of the lease that they will not be offering a lease renewal. Now since you own your apartment, if you want to move, you can sell you apartment and the new buyer assumes the mortgage, plus your profit based on rising real estate values. Obviously one choice for you if you go to Bulgaria is to rent out the apartment while you are gone. In America we have real estate brokers who specialize in finding renters, collect the rent and manage the rental unit while also depositing youjr rent money into your own bank account in return for a small fee (usually maybe 5% - 10% of the rent received).
IN the United States we have what is called home owners association. (HOA). On top of my mortage each month I pay a fee to the HOA who manages and maintains the condos public spaces and passes regulations all residents must follow. Do similar organizations exist in Russia and Europe?
I would send you a space heater if I could. Maybe after the sanctons that will be possible. BTW, St. Petersburg is a beautiful city. Best of luck to you - if not your government.
We have unique terms for apartments here in the Canadian province of Quebec. A studio apartment is called a 1 and a half, the 1/2 refers to the bathroom. A studio apartment that has a separation between the sleeping area and living room is a 2-1/2, Ksenia's apartment would likely be this type here in Quebec. A 3-1/2 has one separate bedroom, 4-1/2 has 2 separate bedrooms, etc.
And also here in Quebec, an apartment is a place in a building that you rent, an apartment that you own is referred here as a condo (condominium).
So Kesnia, your apartment is a Western facing apartment.
Yes, the sounds of walking overhead is called "footfall" and it is so annoying! Here, most (or at least a LOT) of people sell homes under mortgage. I am curious: What is reasoning for people not wanting to buy a home under mortgage? Thanks for an insightful video, from Kansas USA 🥰🌻🌈
Yes, I'm in Canada, and as you say, people sells homes still under mortgage all the time. It's the seller's responsibility to pay off their mortgage with what they make selling it. The buyer acquires their own mortgage for whatever price they negotiated for, minus down payment.
Well you can also pay off your mortgage doing payments over time or doubling up on payments. It doesn't have to be just from selling it.
Ksenia, I know exactly what you mean with loud neighbours living in a flat. I used to live in a flat for most of my life and also called the police a number of times. These days you get styrofoam ceiling tiles (peel and stick) which looks ornamental and blocks the sound. Maybe it's because you're on the ground floor that your flat gets so cold, it's not insulated that well and cold comes from the ground below your flat. Maybe get some thick rugs or underfloor heating. Try that, if you can get it. Nice to see you again. How's your mum doing? 🇿🇦
My apartment in Japan was almost identical to yours.
Rent the apartment while you're away, don't sell it, it's nice and is an asset, not a lot of people are able to own an apartment in such a beautiful city as Saint Petersburg. Rent it while you're away one year
An apartment that size would probably be around $3k a month in NYC to rent. Try putting together a first, last and deposit there to get in if accepted off waitlist. How much do you pay for a months mortgage?
Keep calm Ksenia, you will soon be able to make a money transfer to Bulgaria.
How do you dry large items like bedsheets? In the USA you probably know all homes and almost all apartments have full size washer and dryer. If not in the apartments then a laundry room downstairs. There are still a very small number of people that go to laundromats to wash and dry but all very low income probably renting a single room in someones basement.
Radiator
It's no fun living under someone with a squeaky and creaky old floor. There's not much you can do about it unless you can get them to insulate under or repair the floor above. You could perhaps come to a financial arrangement with them to help them pay for the work if they are interested in having it fixed.
What is the price of this apartment?
How much personal contribution did you have?
, what was the amount of credit and the interest rate of credit?
You can watch this video ua-cam.com/video/N62CWUE4ysM/v-deo.html
I describe everything there.
Acoustic panels on the ceiling? Noise is the major downer of apartment living
We buy them the same way in the USA.
Hi, Besides the mortgage that you mention, what other monthly carrying cost that you have to pay for this apartment? also do you own the portion of the land that you apartment is situated and do you have to pay any taxes for your apartment? thanks!
Hi Knesia! Your apt is lovely. Why are you going to Bulgaria for one year? Is it your job? I am sure it will all work out 🥰
Would you have to pay a loan prepayment penalty if you want to quit the loan contract earlier as planned?
All your problems are the same if you live in the States, UK, or Italy. I feel the same I do prefer owing to pay rent, last time in London the Landlord wanted back the apartment luckily I was buying a nice apartment but is not easy. You are lucky the interest rate in Russia a lower than Western Europe.
I would keep your place and rent it out while you are gone. That way you are still building equity.
If you intend to leave russia and never go back, I personally would try to sell it. Strange that people are hesitant about buying a mortgaged apartment. That’s the norm here. Don’t know how mortgages work in your country. Here if you sell, you pay off the mortgage with the sales proceeds. Yeah the money transfer is the big issue
Tell him to get HEADPHONES 🎧🎧
I think the police might have told him. But he doesn't seem to care.
Thank you for good informative video. I am japanese living in Moscow. Now one of my japnese freind in Moscow will move to China soon, so he tried to sell his own apartment but he gave up because due to sanctions there us a rule that when non friendly country nationals sell property, the money go to aome special deposit and can not use it without any permission from Russian government, and they will never permit. 😢
Leier du i Norge må du også betale tre måneder depositum, men det er også pålagt tre måneder gjensidig oppsigelse som gir en vis trygghet. Hilsen fra Vardø Norway.
Oh, looks like pretty much the same system.
Why don’t you sublet your apparement? Basically you rent your place to a renter who pays the mortgage by paying you rent!
Best of luck! 🎉
I just love the way you make it sound like there's a crowd of potential tenants queueing up in front of Ksenia's house)))
Global warming will solve the heating problem. Money transfer: Maybe buy expensive, gold jewellery, expensive watch? Space issue: Consider building a "high bed", i.e. one on stilts or even made of scaffolding for a post-industrial look. The bed will then benefit from the warmer air higher up. You can then use the space under the bed as an office, for storage, etc.
I would do whatever I could to get out of that country, let alone buy an apartment that isnt well maintained, is noisy and cramped. Ugh.
Get some electric heaters.
Is it more like a condo? Are you part of an association? Do you pay a monthly fee just for common area cleaning and maintenance ? In the states apartments are rented only , you do not own an apartment . I am renting , lost condo to a fire almost two years ago . I am stressed . My agreement ends next month . I am hoping they let me go month to month . My condo should be ready in October . You still pay the mortgage , condo fee and some real estate taxes plus you pay rent at the temporary apartment . Now when I return I already knew the very quiet woman above me is selling . I worry I will have a small family with kids . nooooooooooooooooooooooooooo!!!! Neighbors bad . Maybe man above you bought some headphones?