Core Viewpoint - The article emphasizes that the choice of floor in a residential building significantly impacts living experience, and it highlights specific "hard-to-avoid" floors that should be avoided when purchasing a property [1][22]. Group 1: Floors to Avoid - Floors adjacent to electrical rooms can be noisy due to constant electrical hum and vibrations, leading to discomfort and difficulty in reselling the property [3][4][6]. - Floors facing high-level platforms may seem attractive but can suffer from noise disturbances from public use and safety concerns due to low railings [8][10]. - Floors near garbage collection points can experience unpleasant odors and noise, especially during peak garbage collection times, which can degrade the living environment [12][14]. - Floors above or below equipment rooms may face vibrations and noise from elevators and HVAC systems, making it challenging to maintain a peaceful living space [16][18]. - Ground floors in low-lying areas are prone to flooding during heavy rains and can have issues with humidity and pests, making them less desirable [20][22].

Core Viewpoint - The article emphasizes the importance of being cautious when purchasing real estate, particularly regarding common pitfalls associated with different floor levels in buildings [1]. Group 1: Common Floor Level Traps - The first major trap is low floors adjacent to commercial shops, which can lead to poor living conditions due to noise and pollution [3][7]. - The second trap is the first floor, which often suffers from inadequate lighting and ventilation, making it less desirable for living [6][10]. - The third trap involves top floors without lofts, which can become excessively hot in summer and may have issues with water leakage due to roof exposure [9]. - The final trap is the waistline floor, which can accumulate dust and water, negatively impacting air quality and potentially leading to structural issues [11]. Group 2: Recommendations for Homebuyers - Homebuyers are advised to conduct thorough on-site evaluations and not to rely solely on sales personnel's claims [4][11]. - It is crucial to consider the overall living environment and potential drawbacks of specific floor levels to find a suitable home [10].

Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the current favorable policies in the real estate market that encourage first-time homebuyers to enter the market, while highlighting the importance of various factors such as location, floor level, and layout in the decision-making process [1] Group 1: Unfavorable Floor Types - Industry experts suggest avoiding certain floor types despite common superstitions about specific floors like the 4th and 18th floors, which are often considered unlucky [3] - The five types of floors to avoid include: 1. Ground floor without a private yard 2. Second floor prone to plumbing issues 3. Floors adjacent to street-level shops 4. Top floor without an attic 5. Waistline floor [3] Group 2: Ground Floor Issues - Living on the ground floor without a private yard can lead to poor lighting and ventilation, requiring artificial lighting during the day and potentially causing dampness [6][8] - Ground floor residents may face security concerns due to lower privacy and increased noise from the street [10][11] Group 3: Second Floor Concerns - The second floor is particularly susceptible to plumbing issues, such as sewage backflow, which can create unpleasant living conditions [12] Group 4: Proximity to Commercial Spaces - Floors located above busy street-level shops can be disruptive due to noise and foot traffic, especially if the shops are restaurants, which can also lead to unpleasant odors infiltrating the living space [13] Group 5: Top Floor Drawbacks - Top floors without an attic may have poor insulation, leading to high energy consumption for heating and cooling [14] - These floors are also at risk of water damage during heavy rains, which can compromise interior finishes [15] Group 6: Waistline Floor Challenges - Living on a waistline floor can result in increased maintenance due to debris from higher floors and reduced natural light and ventilation for the units below [16][17]

Core Viewpoint - The article emphasizes the importance of choosing the second floor over the fifth floor when buying a home, highlighting the practical advantages of the second floor in terms of convenience and avoiding common pitfalls associated with higher floors [1][3]. Group 1: Advantages of Choosing the Second Floor - The second floor avoids the common issues of the first floor, such as humidity, pests, and obstruction of light, while retaining the convenience of lower floors [3]. - Living on the second floor is more convenient for families with elderly members, as it eliminates the need to wait for elevators and makes carrying groceries or luggage easier [4]. - The price of second-floor apartments is typically 5%-8% lower than that of fifth-floor apartments, making it a more cost-effective option for budget-conscious buyers [4]. Group 2: Disadvantages of Choosing the Fifth Floor - The fifth floor is often located in a noise concentration zone, making it susceptible to disturbances from activities below, such as music and conversations, leading to a higher noise complaint rate compared to the second floor [5][6]. - There can be issues with light obstruction if the building's spacing does not meet regulations, potentially resulting in inadequate sunlight for fifth-floor apartments [6]. - Climbing to the fifth floor can be physically demanding, especially when elevators are out of service, and it lacks the scenic views typically associated with higher floors [6]. Group 3: Important Considerations Beyond the "Rule" - Buyers should check the spacing between buildings and sunlight exposure, as even the second floor can have inadequate light if the spacing is insufficient [7]. - It is crucial to verify the location of equipment layers in the building, as noise from these layers can significantly affect living conditions [8]. - The article concludes that while the guideline of "choose the second floor over the fifth" is helpful, it should not be the sole criterion; buyers should consider official regulations and their personal needs before making a decision [8].

Core Insights - The article emphasizes the importance of floor selection in real estate, highlighting that it significantly impacts living experience beyond just a numerical value [1][3][16] Group 1: Living Experience - The choice of floor affects noise levels, ventilation, and lighting, which are crucial for a comfortable living environment [5][12] - Residents on certain floors may experience disturbances from neighbors, particularly in buildings with poor sound insulation [7][10] - The article illustrates that even a one-floor difference can lead to substantial variations in sunlight exposure and overall comfort [12][13] Group 2: Market Perception - The preference for odd-numbered floors over even-numbered ones is rooted in practical experiences rather than superstition, as potential buyers often consider these factors when purchasing [15][16] - The article suggests that as the housing market evolves, buyers will become increasingly discerning, leading to potential challenges in selling properties located on less desirable floors [15][16] - The perception of floor value can influence resale opportunities, with buyers being cautious about properties on even-numbered floors due to past negative experiences [15][16]

Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the significance of floor selection in residential properties, highlighting both superstitions and practical issues associated with specific floors in high-rise buildings [1][6]. Group 1: Floor Selection and Superstitions - Buyers often avoid purchasing units on the 4th, 14th, and 18th floors due to superstitions linked to their meanings in Chinese culture, such as "4" and "14" being associated with death [1]. - Despite these beliefs, industry experts argue that the actual living experience on these floors is not significantly impacted by these superstitions [1][6]. Group 2: Practical Issues by Floor - **Second Floor**: Similar disadvantages as the first floor, including poor lighting and ventilation, as well as increased risks of plumbing issues, especially during summer [3]. - **Waistline Floor**: Aesthetic waistlines in high-rise buildings can lead to safety concerns from falling objects and water accumulation during rainy seasons, causing potential damage and maintenance costs [3]. - **Top Floor (No Attic)**: Offers good views and privacy but faces challenges such as extreme temperatures, high energy costs for cooling and heating, and risks of leaks during rainy seasons [4]. - **First Floor (No Garden)**: Convenient for access but suffers from poor lighting, noise, pest issues, and privacy concerns, leading to increased maintenance costs due to humidity [4]. Group 3: Conclusion - While the avoidance of certain floors may stem from superstition, there are tangible living quality issues associated with various floors that buyers should consider when making decisions [6].