Core Viewpoint - The traditional saying "the rich do not buy the first floor, and the poor do not buy the top floor" reflects the collective wisdom of Chinese homebuyers, highlighting the advantages and disadvantages of different floor choices in the real estate market [1][3][10] Summary by Sections First Floor Considerations - The first floor offers easy access but suffers from issues like high humidity during rainy seasons, privacy concerns, and noise pollution, making it less desirable for quality living [3][6][10] - A survey indicated that 34% of older residential communities have water backflow issues on the first floor, posing a significant risk [3][6] Top Floor Considerations - The top floor provides great views and sunlight but faces challenges such as temperature extremes, increased heating costs, and potential water leakage [4][7][10] - Data shows that temperatures on the top floor can be 3-5°C lower in winter and 4-7°C higher in summer compared to standard floors, leading to higher energy consumption [4][6] Market Trends and Changing Perspectives - Modern building technologies have improved the living conditions of both first and top floors, with features like gardens for first-floor units and terraces for top-floor units increasing their appeal [7][10] - The preference for middle floors, often referred to as "golden floors," remains strong due to their balanced advantages in lighting, ventilation, and noise reduction [9][10] Family Needs and Lifestyle Factors - Family structure and lifestyle significantly influence floor choice; for instance, families with elderly or young children may prefer the first floor for convenience, while younger individuals may favor the top floor for privacy and views [9][10] - The market reflects a general preference for middle floors, aligning with the traditional wisdom that suggests avoiding the extremes of the first and top floors [9][10]

Core Perspective - The perception of first and top floors in the real estate market has shifted, with savvy buyers now recognizing their potential value, contrary to the traditional view that these floors are undesirable [1] Group 1: Unique Appeal of First Floor - Price advantages are significant, making first floors a budget-friendly option compared to mid to high floors, which are often more expensive [3] - The convenience of access is a major benefit, especially for families with elderly members or children, as it eliminates the need to wait for elevators [5] - First floor residents enjoy consistent water pressure, avoiding the common issue of low water pressure faced by higher floor residents [7] - Proximity to nature is enhanced on the first floor, allowing residents to enjoy greenery and cooler temperatures during summer [8] Group 2: Distinct Features of Top Floor - Top floors offer unobstructed sunlight and expansive views, providing a bright and airy living environment [12] - Many developments include additional spaces like attics or terraces with top floor units, enhancing their value and appeal [13] - Top floor residents benefit from reduced noise levels due to their elevation, leading to a quieter living experience [15] - Modern designs for top floors address concerns about heat and water leakage, with features like sloped roofs and ventilation systems improving comfort [18] Group 3: Considerations for Buyers - Buyers are encouraged to broaden their perspectives when selecting floors, as both first and top floors have loyal advocates who appreciate their unique advantages [17]

Core Insights - The traditional saying "buy low, foolish to buy high" regarding first and top floors is becoming outdated as modern developments address their inherent flaws [1][3] - Developers are innovating to enhance the appeal of both first and top floors, making them more attractive to buyers [2][3] Summary by Sections First Floor - The first floor offers advantages such as lower prices and convenience for those with mobility issues, but it suffers from poor lighting, humidity, noise, and security concerns [1][2] - Developers are addressing these issues by providing private gardens and designing elevated ground floors to mitigate humidity and noise problems [2][3] Top Floor - The top floor is appealing due to its views, air circulation, and privacy, but it faces challenges like water leakage and temperature regulation [2][3] - Innovations such as adding lofts and improving building materials for insulation and waterproofing are enhancing the desirability of top floors [3]

Core Viewpoint - The perception that ground floor apartments are undesirable is challenged by recent sales trends, indicating that they are increasingly favored by financially capable buyers due to various advantages. Group 1: Sales Trends - Recent sales of ground floor apartments have been surprisingly strong, contradicting the negative online narratives about their desirability [3]. - Many financially capable individuals are showing a preference for ground floor residences, suggesting a shift in market perception [1]. Group 2: Advantages of Ground Floor Apartments - Ground floor apartments typically have a price advantage, as developers often price them lower due to concerns about light and ventilation. Additionally, balconies on the ground floor are often not included in the property area, further reducing costs [5]. - For families with elderly or mobility-impaired members, ground floor living offers unmatched convenience, eliminating the need for elevators and facilitating quicker escape during emergencies like fires or earthquakes [7]. - Ground floor residents do not face water pressure issues common in higher floors, ensuring consistent water supply even during peak usage times [9]. - Many ground floor units come with private gardens, allowing residents to enjoy outdoor space for gardening or pet care, enhancing their living experience [9]. - New developments are increasingly incorporating elevated ground floor designs, which improve living conditions by reducing ground moisture and enhancing air circulation [10].

Core Insights - The saying "poor buy the first floor, foolish buy the top floor" is no longer entirely applicable in the modern real estate market, as both first and top floors have their advantages and disadvantages that have evolved with advancements in building technology and design concepts [4]. Summary of First Floor - The first floor is often seen as an economical choice due to its lower price, making it attractive for buyers with limited financial resources [3]. - Developers frequently market first-floor units as special offers, sometimes including additional features like private gardens to enhance appeal [3]. - However, the first floor has notable drawbacks, including insufficient natural light, which necessitates frequent use of artificial lighting, and issues with humidity that can lead to flooring replacements [3]. - Noise and privacy concerns are prevalent on the first floor, along with pest issues during summer, prompting many residents to install security measures [3]. - Recent trends show that high-quality projects are offering substantial private garden spaces on the first floor, attracting higher-end buyers, and some developers are creating elevated ground floors to mitigate common issues [3]. Summary of Top Floor - The top floor offers clear advantages such as expansive views, excellent air circulation, and abundant natural light, contributing to a pleasant living environment [1]. - Privacy is another strong point for top-floor units, as they are less frequented by other residents, ensuring tranquility [1]. - Nonetheless, top floors face challenges, particularly in regions with heavy rainfall, where water leakage can be a concern, and extreme temperatures can lead to increased energy consumption for heating and cooling [1]. - The reliance on elevators can also be a significant inconvenience for top-floor residents [1]. - Modern construction techniques have improved the situation for top floors, with developers often adding lofts to increase living space and employing advanced waterproofing and insulation materials to address previous issues [1]. Conclusion - The decision to choose between a first floor or a top floor should be based on individual needs, financial circumstances, and lifestyle preferences, rather than outdated beliefs [4].