Core Insights - The real estate market is undergoing a significant adjustment in 2023, yet the demand from first-time homebuyers remains strong due to fundamental needs such as settling down, marriage, and children's education [1] Group 1: Home Buying Strategies - The article emphasizes the importance of location, community environment, floor level, and layout design in selecting a home [1] - A seasoned industry expert provides a "seven-character mantra" for first-time homebuyers: "Buy middle, buy edge, do not buy three" [1] - "Buy middle" refers to choosing mid-level floors in a building, which balances comfort and convenience, avoiding the noise and dust of lower floors and the inconvenience of high floors [1] - "Buy edge" suggests opting for corner units over middle units, as corner units typically offer better privacy and larger living space [3] - "Do not buy three" advises against purchasing three types of properties: old downtown apartments, remote suburban homes, and high-risk pre-sale properties [3] Group 2: Risks of Certain Property Types - Old downtown apartments, often sought after for potential redevelopment, are becoming less attractive due to diminishing demolition opportunities and poor living conditions [5] - Suburban homes, while cheaper, face issues such as inadequate amenities and transportation, making them vulnerable to market fluctuations [7] - The risks associated with purchasing pre-sale properties are increasing, as developers face financial pressures that could lead to project failures and significant losses for buyers [8]

Group 1 - The article emphasizes the importance of making informed decisions when purchasing a home, as it is often a lifelong commitment involving significant financial investment [1] - It introduces three practical principles for selecting a property: buy edge units, buy east-facing units, and avoid the third floor [3] Group 2 - Buying edge units is recommended due to their advantages such as reduced noise from neighbors and better ventilation, despite common perceptions that they are less desirable [5][6] - East-facing units are highlighted for their favorable sunlight exposure, providing a comfortable living environment, especially in colder regions [8][10] - The article advises against purchasing units on the third floor due to potential inconveniences such as lack of elevator access and drainage issues, suggesting higher floors as better alternatives [12][14]