Group 1 - The article emphasizes the importance of careful consideration when purchasing a home, particularly regarding the choice of floor level, as lower-priced options may hide significant drawbacks [1][4][7] - Residents on the ground floor often face noise disturbances from street traffic, which can severely affect their quality of sleep [3] - Ground floor units may also incur unexpected costs, such as shared elevator maintenance fees, which can accumulate over time [4] Group 2 - Living on the ground floor can lead to issues with pests, particularly mosquitoes, especially during the summer months, which can detract from the living experience [5] - In humid regions, ground floor apartments may suffer from dampness and poor lighting, leading to health concerns and discomfort for residents [5] - The article advises potential buyers to avoid blindly pursuing lower prices and to conduct thorough research before making a purchase decision [7]

Core Insights - The article emphasizes the importance of floor selection when purchasing a property, highlighting four key principles: "buy south, buy edge, buy three, avoid four" [1][2]. Group 1: Importance of Floor Selection - A recent survey indicates that 78.3% of homebuyers consider floor factors among their top three considerations, a significant increase from less than 50% five years ago [2]. - The article discusses the implications of floor selection on living conditions, energy costs, and overall satisfaction [1]. Group 2: "Buy South" - South-facing homes receive 2-3 more hours of sunlight compared to east-west facing homes, leading to a potential 20-30% reduction in heating costs during winter [4]. - East-southeast facing homes are recommended as a secondary option, providing good sunlight exposure without the drawbacks of west-facing homes, which can increase indoor temperatures by 3-5°C during summer afternoons [4]. Group 3: "Buy Edge" - Choosing corner units (edge homes) can reduce noise complaints by 47% compared to middle units, as they typically have only one shared wall [5]. - Edge homes also benefit from approximately 20% more natural light due to having three exterior walls [5]. Group 4: "Buy Three" - Homes on the third floor and above are preferred as they avoid issues associated with lower floors, such as noise, dust, and security risks, with first-floor burglary rates being 2.5 times higher than higher floors [6][8]. - Properties on the third to sixth floors have a 15% faster turnover rate in the secondary market compared to lower floors [8]. Group 5: "Avoid Four" - The number four is associated with negative connotations in some cultures, and practical reasons suggest avoiding the fourth floor in older buildings where it may lack desirable views and convenience [10]. - In the secondary market, properties on the fourth floor have a 20% longer average transaction period and often sell for 5% less than the listing price [10]. Group 6: Special Considerations for Elevator Buildings - In elevator buildings, it is advisable to avoid the top floor due to temperature extremes and potential water leakage issues, as well as the equipment floor, which can be noisy [11]. - The ground floor is less private and prone to moisture and insect issues, while underground levels are generally unsuitable for living due to poor lighting and ventilation [11].