One of the major factors that will influence your decisions in buying any type of condo unit is the floor number. Choosing between lower, middle, and upper floors can be tough since each floor level has its set of benefits and disadvantages.
The thing is, only the potential condo owner can tell which floor level is best for residential living based on his lifestyle and preferences. If this is your first time purchasing a condo, here are factors to consider when choosing the best condo floor.
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View
If a breathtaking view is of paramount importance to you, then you should get a condo unit on the higher floors. A great view can increase the value and price of a unit, especially if the view is a beautiful beach where you can watch the most amazing sunrise and sunsets. If you have fear of heights, then you’re better off residing in the lower floors.
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Affordability
In most high-rise condominiums, units get more expensive in the higher floors. So if money is an issue to you and you can’t afford the price tag of a great view, then a lower floor is a more practical option.
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Access
There are people who don’t have the patience to wait for elevators or use the stairs. If easy access is a big deal to you, then the first three to five floors is a great choice. Elderly and handicapped people should also reside at the lower floors.
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Noise
The upper floor is a perfect choice if you value peace and quiet above everything else. You don’t have to worry about traffic noise. However, you still have to deal with noise from other tenants surrounding your unit.
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Security
If your condominium building has great security measures in place, you would still be safe in your home wherever you’re located. But if you’re still nervous about the chances of having someone breaking in your unit, consider getting a unit at the higher floors. Criminals wouldn’t risk riding the elevator or use the stairs so they normally attack the lower floors.
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Evacuation
Generally, those who are in the higher floors will have a harder time getting out of the building in case of fire, earthquake, bomb scare, and other emergencies. Condominium buildings do have safety and evacuation measures in place in case emergencies occur. But if the thought of getting trapped in the 30th floor during an earthquake is something that really bothers you, then forget about getting a unit on the upper part of the building.
If you’re having a hard time deciding which floor to choose, consider the pros and cons of each floor level in a high-rise condominium.
Option 1: Pros and Cons of the Highest Floor
PROS: Because of the location, higher floors are less susceptible to theft and pets. You don’t have to deal with noise coming from the traffic below. If you’re on the penthouse level, it means you don’t have to deal with overhead noise from upstairs neighbors. Also, you’ll feel the rising of hot air at this floor level, which is a plus if you prefer warmer temperatures in your condo. Of course, the best advantage of living on the upper floor is the view. Condo units located on the upper floors can have higher prices because of the amazing views that you’ll get to enjoy.
CONS: It can get tough moving groceries and other heavy items to the upper floors. Even with the help of the elevator, it can be a hassle dragging heavy loads from the outside to the elevator, then from the elevator to your unit. The hot air that rises in this floor level can become a disadvantage during summer because it means having to spend for air conditioning to keep your home cool. Because you have people living underneath your unit, you have to avoid creating too much noise or dropping things to the floor in order not to upset your downstairs neighbors.
Option 2: The Benefits of the Middle Floor
PROS: The middle floor can be a great compromise for those who would rather avoid the extremes of the lower and upper floors. Street noise is still tolerable at this level and going up and down the stairs is definitely not as tough compared to the top floors.
CONS: The temperature is constant, which means you’ll get no breaks when it comes to healing and cooling costs. Noise from the floors below and above you can become a concern since you are sandwiched between them. For some people, it’s still tough dragging stuff up to the middle floors.
Option 3: Advantages of the First Floor
PROS: This is perfect for the elderly and those who don’t want the physical exertion of taking the stairs and the elevator. You don’t have to worry about making too much noise on the floor since there’s no one below you (if you’re on the first floor). This is the ideal spot if you love cold temperatures and you’ll spend less on air conditioner bills.
CONS: You are more susceptible to theft and pets (this can be a pro if you actually don’t mind having animals among your neighbors). You need high tolerance for noise because you will get lots of it, from the traffic outside and the people living on the floors above you. It can get really cold during the rainy season, which means an increase in heating costs. Also, rooms on the first floor don’t get too much natural light so you may find yourself spending more for lighting.
There are no right and wrong answers when it comes to deciding which floor to choose to get your condo unit. Each prospective buyer has different needs. If you plan to live in the condo with family or friends, make sure to consider their needs and preferences first before making a decision. You may need to make some compromises before you settle for a particular condo unit.