Core Viewpoint - The real estate market is experiencing a shift in preference from large apartments to smaller units, driven by various economic and social factors [1][3]. Group 1: Economic Factors - High property prices and significant shared area costs make large apartments less attractive. For instance, a 126 square meter large apartment in Shanghai costs approximately 10.08 million yuan, leading to substantial monthly mortgage pressures [3]. - The renovation and property management costs associated with large apartments are considerable. A 150 square meter large apartment could incur renovation costs exceeding 500,000 yuan, and monthly property fees could reach 675 yuan, excluding other expenses [4]. Group 2: Social Factors - Smaller households, such as young families or empty nesters, find large apartments to be overly spacious and lacking warmth, making smaller units more suitable for their living conditions [5]. - The liquidity of large apartments is lower in the current market, making it challenging to sell them quickly when needed, which could lead to longer selling periods and potential price reductions [7].

Core Viewpoint - The phrase "the rich do not buy horizontal halls, and the poor do not buy vertical halls" reflects the underlying preferences and practical considerations in housing choices, particularly regarding the layout of living spaces [3]. Group 1: Differences Between Horizontal and Vertical Halls - Horizontal halls have a layout where the width is greater than the depth, allowing for a linear arrangement of the living and dining areas [4]. - Vertical halls, in contrast, have a smaller width compared to depth, resulting in a layout where living and dining areas are not aligned horizontally [4]. Group 2: Advantages and Disadvantages of Horizontal Halls - Advantages of horizontal halls include better lighting due to larger windows, wider views enhancing the living experience, and higher space utilization allowing for diverse functional arrangements [7]. - Disadvantages include higher renovation costs due to larger areas and complex designs, increased maintenance costs, unclear functional area divisions leading to a cluttered feel, and lower privacy levels [9][11]. Group 3: Advantages and Disadvantages of Vertical Halls - Advantages of vertical halls include better privacy through distinct functional area separation, a stronger sense of spatial layering, and lower renovation and maintenance costs due to smaller areas [13][14]. - Disadvantages consist of insufficient lighting due to the vertical layout, limited space which can be problematic for families, restricted views affecting the living experience, and greater difficulty in renovations due to fixed layouts [16]. Group 4: Conclusion on Housing Choices - The choice between horizontal and vertical halls should be made based on individual needs and financial capabilities, rather than strictly adhering to the saying "the rich do not buy horizontal halls, and the poor do not buy vertical halls" [18].