Which Floor to Choose in a High-Rise Building? Choose Best One

When it comes to moving to a metro city, most people prefer high-rise apartments because they offer safety, convenience, community living, and a desirable lifestyle. According to the National Building Code(NBC), buildings with 15 metres or more height are considered high-rise. 

However, one concern that many homebuyers and tenants face is which apartment floor is best in a high-rise building. Well, each floor has its pros and cons and one needs to assess all factors to choose the right floor.

If you are also going through the same dilemma, we are here to help. We have examined various floor options based on their benefits and limitations to determine which one is best for you and your family. 

Living on the Lower/Ground Floors- Pros and Cons

Lower floors usually include the ground, first, and second floors. Living on the lower floors has its set of advantages, including the convenience of not having to climb stairs or wait for the elevator. It is an ideal option for elderly people and those with mobility issues. However, there are a few drawbacks, too. 

Pros

• Easy to move, especially if you are living on rent.
• No need to climb stairs or wait for elevators.
• Easy to evacuate in case of emergency.
• Quick access to the society’s outdoor space.
• Cool temperatures, especially in summer, limit the usage of air conditioners and save on huge electricity bills.
• High rentals as many people prefer lower floors.
• Children can easily access play areas, and parents can keep an eye on them.

Cons

• A lack of privacy and constant disturbance can disrupt the peace of residents.
• No view and limited light.
• Apartments are usually cold, which can be an issue in the winter season.
• Prone to bugs, rodents, and insects.
• Lack of ventilation.
• Security concerns because ground floors are easily accessible.
• Rainy seasons can cause the floor to become damp, leading to damage to walls and floors. 

Living on the Middle Floors- Pros and Cons

Floors from third to sixth are considered middle floors in a high-rise apartment. Now that you are aware of the advantages and disadvantages of living on the ground floors, it’s time to check out the pros and cons of living on the middle floors. 

Pros

• Similar merits as top-floor residents, including ventilation, light, and view.
• Middle floors are cheaper.
• Fewer pests, bugs, and insects than on ground floors.
• Safer than the ground floor.
• Moderate temperature throughout the year, so lower electricity consumption.

Cons

• It’s not as peaceful as the top floors.
• Difficult to move furniture and luggage, especially for tenants.
• Emergency evacuation can be a bit difficult. 
• Prone to disturbance from outside.
• Difficult for kids to access playgrounds.
• Restricted mobility for senior citizens.
• Dependency of elevators. 

Living on the Higher Floors

The top floors include everything from the seventh floor and above. We don’t need to mention that the top floors are quite popular among people because of the view they offer. Also, you get to enjoy immense ventilation and light. Imagine living on the 15th or 20th floor of a high-rise building. It can be beautiful, especially for young couples. However, there are also a few drawbacks that you must be familiar with.

Pros

• Ample peace, light, and ventilation.
• Absolute privacy.
• No street noise.
• Easy accessibility to the terrace.
• Spectacular view of scenic surroundings.
• Comparatively safer than the ground floor.
• Free from unwanted pests, insects, and bugs.
• Fresh air and more exposure to sunlight than lower floors.

Cons

• The top floors are difficult to access.
• High dependency on elevators. If they go out of order, it can limit mobility. 
• Evacuation can be a daunting task, especially in the event of emergencies such as fire or natural disasters.
• Direct sunlight can be a big drawback in the summer season, resulting in constant use of A/C and significant electricity bills.
• Moving furniture or luggage can be challenging.
• Costlier than lower floors.
• It is difficult for senior citizens or people with mobility issues to access the outdoors.

Choosing the Right Floor to Live

After going through the potential advantages and disadvantages of different floors, let’s take a look at several factors to determine which floor is best in a high-rise apartment:

Family Dynamics

Your family’s requirements are the most important. A nuclear family, comprising a husband, a wife, and a kid, can go for higher floors to enjoy great views, privacy, and peace. However, if you have an elderly person in your family, lower floors are more suitable. 

Resale Value

The demand for upper floors is more than for lower floors in a high-rise building. However, if you are looking for a successful investment, opt for lower floors as they are easier to sell, and their value tends to appreciate. High floors are more expensive when they are new but have less resale value.

Budget Concerns

If you want to buy an apartment from higher floors, you may have to shell out more. Hence, it may not be a great idea for people with budget constraints. In such a case, middle floors are better options. 

Rental Returns and Demand

When renting a flat in a high-rise building, most people prefer lower floors as they provide easy access to the outdoor space. Also, moving heavy furniture and luggage is more convenient on lower floors. So, if you are buying a flat for investment purposes and seek steady rental returns, renting lower floors will be easier and more lucrative. 

Health and Mobility Concerns

If you have senior citizens or a physically disabled person in your family, the lower floors of a high-rise building would be better as they provide easy mobility and accessibility. 

Also Read – Flat vs Independent House: Which is Better for You?

Final Thoughts

Home is a place where you find peace and comfort. It keeps your family secure and happy. So, make sure to keep your family and its needs first when choosing the best apartment floor to live on. Think of their requirements and convenience. 

If you want easy access, lower floors are best for you. But if you want peace and view, nothing beats higher floors. Consider each factor before putting in your money. Keep an open mind to make an informed decision because buying a house costs a major chunk of your savings. Do meticulous research, ask friends and family who have recently bought a flat in high-rise buildings, seek guidance from a real estate expert, and then invest your money wisely.