Moving from a house to an apartment home comes with a lot of  small questions. Here are honest answers to the five we hear most.

What should I be looking for in an apartment?
Start with these:

• A full kitchen. Even if someone else does most of the cooking, you'll want your own coffee, breakfast, and a place to make the occasional family recipe.
• Outdoor space of your own. A balcony or patio is fresh air without getting in the car.
• A bathroom that works for the long run. Look for a walk-in shower and grab bars.
• Storage. A walk-in closet makes downsizing much easier.
• Peace of mind. Ask about 24/7 staffing and an emergency response system.

At Willamette Oaks, every apartment home has a full kitchen, and nearly all have a private balcony or patio. Many senior communities don't offer both. Walk-in closets come with the two larger one-bedroom and both two-bedroom styles.

2. Studio or one-bedroom?
Think about how you spend a day. 

A studio (350 to 460 sq. ft.) suits you if you're often out and about. Maybe you're in the library in the morning, at lunch with friends, and then strolling down to the river in the afternoon. It's This is the most affordable option and the easiest to keep up. In a Willamette Oaks studio with alcove, your bed sits in its own nook, so the main space feels like a living room.

A one-bedroom (525 to 740 sq. ft.) is best if you like a door to close, host family often, or spend a lot of time at home with a hobby. Couples — or anyone who wants a home office or guest room — often choose a two-bedroom (810 to 1,003 sq. ft.).

Remember that family visiting from out of town can stay in Willamette Oaks' guest apartments, so you don't need a spare bedroom just for them.

3. My furniture was sized for a house. Should I start over?
No need to buy a bunch of new pieces. Keep those pieces you love and let go of the ones that just fill space.

• Measure your favorites, such as your bed,  sofa, a favorite chair, and your dining table.
• Ask for a floor plan with dimensions and sketch where things will go.
• Bring a tape measure to your visit. 

A big sectional rarely makes the move. But your favorite armchair, the family dining table with a leaf removed, and the art from your walls usually do. They're what make the apartment feel like yours. Small pets are welcome too.

4. How do costs compare to living in my house?
A house has bills that add up over time . At Willamette Oaks, one monthly charge covers most of them:

Add up your current costs before you compare. Most people are surprised by the total.

At Willamette Oaks, our costs also get more predictable over time. Through our LifeMinded Rewards Rent-Lock Program, rent increases cap at 3% on your 4th anniversary and 2% on your 6th. On your 10th anniversary, your monthly rent is locked for life. More than 60% of our residents currently benefit from this program.

5. How do I know which apartment is right for me?
Come see them! Stand in a studio and a one-bedroom, step out onto a balcony, and stay for lunch. Our team can show you how residents have set up the same space you're considering.

See floor plans and starting prices on Apartments & Rates or call (425) 391-2880 to plan your visit.