Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the potential future decline of high-rise residential buildings, questioning whether they may eventually become "slums" and highlighting the risks associated with investing in such properties [3][6][37]. Group 1: Historical Precedents - Historical examples from Europe show that high-rise buildings can deteriorate rapidly, with cases like the Ronan Point in London being demolished within twenty years due to neglect and structural issues [5][6]. - In China, 35% of high-rise buildings constructed before 1990 have already experienced "functional depreciation," indicating that their facilities have aged to the point of being unusable [5]. Group 2: Economic Motivations - The rapid construction of high-rise buildings in China is driven by profit motives, with developers earning significantly more from taller buildings compared to shorter ones [8][9]. - Local governments also benefit from high-rise developments as they contribute more to GDP and tax revenues, incentivizing the construction of taller buildings without considering long-term maintenance [12][13][14]. Group 3: Maintenance Challenges - High-rise buildings age faster than expected, leading to critical issues such as elevator failures, plumbing problems, and high maintenance costs that can become overwhelming for residents [19][20][21]. - The article notes that many older high-rises face significant repair costs, with examples of substantial expenses for elevator replacements and plumbing repairs [30][31]. Group 4: Investment Risks - The article warns that purchasing high-rise properties is akin to gambling on their future viability, as owners may face substantial financial burdens if maintenance issues arise [37][40]. - The majority of high-rise owners are middle-class individuals who may lack the financial resources to cover ongoing maintenance costs, leading to a cycle of depreciation and loss of value [34][42].