Core Viewpoint - The trend of moving away from duplex apartments is increasing, as many homeowners are regretting their decisions due to various shortcomings in living experience, costs, and liquidity [1][4][6]. Group 1: Living Experience - The initial appeal of duplex apartments was their spacious design, allowing for distinct functional areas, but many residents now find the actual living experience disappointing [1][4]. - The overall height of duplex apartments is often limited, leading to a sense of oppression in the upper level due to low ceiling heights [4]. - Poor indoor lighting and ventilation are common issues due to the design of duplex apartments, which typically have a wide facade but limited depth [3]. Group 2: Living Costs - Renovation costs for duplex apartments are significantly higher than for standard residences, often exceeding 500,000 to 600,000 yuan, adding financial pressure on middle-class families [6]. - Additional costs such as property management fees, heating expenses, and maintenance funds are also elevated due to the nature of duplex living [6]. - The larger area of duplex apartments requires more time and effort for cleaning, leading many busy families to hire cleaning services, which incurs further expenses [6]. Group 3: Liquidity Issues - The resale market for duplex apartments is challenging, with many potential buyers preferring larger flats in city centers or villas in suburban areas, resulting in limited interest in second-hand duplexes [6]. - The high total price and associated living costs make duplex apartments less accessible for average middle-class families, limiting their appreciation potential and liquidity [6].

Core Insights - The appeal of duplex apartments has diminished as many individuals now approach them with caution, warning against falling into a "sweet trap" [1] - Initially, duplexes were seen as a way to achieve a desirable living space in urban areas, offering more area at a lower price per square meter [2] - However, the reality of living in a duplex often falls short of expectations, with many residents feeling cramped due to the design [3] Design and Space Issues - Many duplexes are designed with a small footprint, leading to a sense of oppression as the space is divided into two levels [3] - Renovation costs for duplexes frequently exceed initial budgets, with some developers requiring homeowners to construct the duplex structure themselves, adding unexpected expenses [4] - The advantages of duplex living may only be realized in situations with fewer occupants, as increased visitors or family members can exacerbate space constraints [5] Ventilation and Lighting Challenges - Duplexes often suffer from poor ventilation and lighting, typically featuring only one large window, which can lead to discomfort [7] - The upper level's lighting relies heavily on artificial sources, making it difficult to ensure a pleasant living environment [7] Height and Comfort Considerations - Height issues are significant, as some designs compromise the first floor's height to accommodate the second, resulting in cramped areas like kitchens and bathrooms [7] - An ideal duplex should have a height of at least 5.5 meters to ensure a comfortable living experience [7] - The decision to choose a duplex should be based on height and budget considerations, with a recommendation to opt for a comfortable two or three-bedroom apartment instead [7]

Core Viewpoint - The popularity of duplex apartments has significantly declined, transforming from a sought-after property type to one that is difficult to sell and live in, primarily due to various inherent disadvantages [1][3][21]. Group 1: Advantages of Duplex Apartments - Duplex apartments were initially favored for their ability to maximize living space, allowing for a more spacious feel compared to traditional flats [3][5]. - They offer distinct areas for socializing and privacy, making them suitable for families with multiple generations [5][7]. - The design allows for multiple bedrooms and bathrooms, catering to larger families and enhancing convenience during peak hours [7][9]. Group 2: Disadvantages of Duplex Apartments - Poor sound insulation is a significant drawback, leading to disturbances between floors, which can negatively impact the living experience [9][11]. - The actual living space can feel cramped, with limited airflow and natural light, affecting overall comfort and health [11][13]. - The installation of stairs can be inconvenient and poses safety risks, especially in smaller spaces [13][15]. - High renovation costs are associated with duplex apartments, often exceeding 500,000 yuan for a 150 square meter unit, making them less accessible for average families [15][17]. - Living costs can be elevated, particularly for apartment-style duplexes, due to commercial rates for utilities and restrictions on cooking methods [17][19]. - Many duplex apartments lack property certificates and have shorter ownership terms, which can deter potential buyers [19][21]. - The current real estate market is sluggish, leading to poor liquidity for duplex apartments, with many owners facing losses when trying to sell [21].

Core Insights - The article discusses the shift in perception regarding duplex apartments among middle-class families, highlighting the drawbacks that have led to a reconsideration of their desirability [1][3]. Group 1: Living Experience - Duplex apartments were once seen as a symbol of status and taste, providing a villa-like living experience, but this perception is challenged by the reality of living in such spaces [3][4]. - The living experience in duplex apartments is often disappointing due to the compressed upper space, which can be as low as 2 meters, leading to feelings of oppression, especially for taller individuals [4][6]. Group 2: Design Challenges - The design of stairs in duplex apartments poses significant challenges; steep stairs can increase the risk of falls for children and the elderly, while gentler slopes consume valuable indoor space [4][6]. Group 3: Market Dynamics - The liquidity of duplex apartments is poor; while they may be easy to purchase, selling them is difficult due to limited demand from high-net-worth individuals who prefer newer properties [6][7]. - A typical 180 square meter duplex can be expensive, making it unaffordable for many middle-class families, and the market for second-hand duplexes is limited, leading to potential depreciation [6][7]. Group 4: Cost Considerations - The renovation costs for duplex apartments can be substantial, often ranging from 700,000 to 800,000 yuan, due to their larger size compared to standard apartments [7]. - Ongoing costs such as property fees, heating, and maintenance are significantly higher for duplex apartments, which can lead to financial strain for owners [7].

Core Viewpoint - The appeal of duplex apartments is diminishing due to high costs, unsatisfactory living experiences, and low liquidity, making them less ideal for middle-class families [1][5]. Group 1: High Costs - The renovation of duplex apartments is significantly more complex and expensive compared to regular homes, with costs for a 150 square meter duplex often reaching 600,000 to 700,000 yuan or more [1][3]. - Ongoing costs such as property fees, maintenance funds, and heating expenses further increase the financial burden on owners, surpassing that of ordinary residences [1]. Group 2: Living Experience - Many owners find that the actual living experience in duplex apartments does not meet their initial expectations, with issues such as poor lighting and ventilation due to the design [3]. - The design of stairs in duplex apartments often poses safety risks for children and the elderly, as they tend to be steep or narrow, which can lead to accidents [3]. Group 3: Investment Risks - The secondary market for duplex apartments is underperforming, with limited appreciation potential and difficulties in selling [3]. - The ambiguity between duplexes and villas leads high-net-worth individuals to prefer standalone villas, while middle-income families are deterred by the high total price, resulting in a "buy easy, sell hard" scenario for duplex owners [3][5].

Core Viewpoint - The popularity of duplex apartments is declining as more homeowners express dissatisfaction with their living conditions and the challenges associated with owning such properties [1] Group 1: Reasons for Initial Popularity - Duplex apartments offered excellent lighting and expansive views, especially for top-floor units, enhancing the quality of life for residents [5] - They provided a tranquil living environment, with minimal noise disturbances and better privacy due to the absence of neighbors above [9] Group 2: Challenges Faced by Homeowners - High renovation costs and challenges arise from the need for extensive design and construction, often leading to quality issues and unexpected expenses [11] - The inconvenience and safety risks associated with staircases are significant, particularly for families with elderly members or young children [12] - Sound insulation issues can lead to disturbances from noise traveling between floors, negatively impacting the living experience [18] - Poor ventilation and lighting can occur in poorly designed duplexes, making the living space feel oppressive [20] - Water leakage risks are prevalent in top-floor units, with aging waterproofing leading to costly repairs that homeowners must bear [24] Group 3: Market Trends and Future Outlook - The market for duplex apartments is shrinking as demand shifts, with many potential buyers unable to afford them and wealthier individuals preferring new properties, resulting in decreased liquidity and difficulty in resale [28]