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Should I use a database or spreadsheet for apartment search and comparisons?

I will want to filter and sort by rent, location, etc. Then I would like to filter school info, & the like. Thanks

Public Comments

1. A database will allow you to sort with logic, where as a spreadsheet will allow you to sort alphanumerical. Your best bet is a database, but its hard to say without knowing what you are using to interpret your data.
2. I would use a database because its more organized and you are able to narrow them down into finding what you are searching for more easily.
3. well i would just use a pen and paper, quite honestly. but a spreadsheet would work. try just getting a pen and paper, and creating a chart (you could do it in excel to, but don't) and sorting your criteria from most important to least important on the top with a number value, then on the side write down all the apartments and write on a scale from 1 to x (x being the criteria's number value) how well that apartment fits that criteria. whichever apartment gets the most points wins. i learned that in econ. its how i decided what ipod i want to save for:D
4. A database.
5. I'm not trying to be rude. But, if you have to ask this question, my concern is if you have the necessary expertise to design a database that will do what you need. With that said, you can accomplish what you need with a spreadsheet. It might take longer than someone who knows how to effectively use a database, but a spreadsheet has a shorter learning curve. Unless you're planning on keeping the data for long term and are willing to learn how to use Access or Oracle or something, go with a spreadsheet.