When buying a condo, one of the things you will have to decide on is the location of your unit in the building. What is the best condo floor or level? Given all other factors – floor space, number of rooms, your preferences, the location of amenities and facilities, are equal and irrelevant, here are the main considerations when choosing your unit location.
The pros of higher floor units;
- The views are amazing – The top floors have the best views. You get dramatic views of the city, and with no neighbouring buildings or trees to block the sun, you also get to enjoy optimal sunlight and natural light.
- Less noise and traffic – The higher you go, the less the traffic noise. There is also typically less units per floor on penthouse levels, which is great when you value your privacy and space.
- Higher rental rates – If you’re buying a condo for investment, it is good to know that higher floors can typically demand higher rental. The premium rate derives from the inherent advantages of the top floors – great views and less traffic.
- Better air quality – When you are high enough, you don’t have to worry about air pollutants that are common in the lower levels. Dust, pollens and vehicle emissions are less likely to reach the higher floors. So, you can open the windows and spend as much time as you want outside on the balcony.
- Security is better – The only way for burglars to enter your home is through the main door. It will be quite a feat for them to scale the building. Thus, you can open the windows to enjoy fresh air, without having to worry about intruders.
- Higher resale value – Because of its prime location and advantages as well as prestige that comes associated with a great view, there is usually a high demand for upper floor units.
The cons of higher floor units;
- More expensive – The top floors command higher prices. The premium price springs from the listed advantages one can enjoy from the upper floors.
- Dependent on the elevators – What happens if the elevators shut down? Or when there’s a line to it? This becomes a hassle when you’re with groceries, your dog needs a bath or when going late for an appointment. If you’re living ten floors above, you are totally dependent on the elevators.
- The greenhouse effect – Higher floor units could catch the greenhouse effect during the summer months. As they are directly hit by the sun, units are heated to high temperatures, causing your electric bills to hike up.
- Inconvenient –When buying a condo, you also need to keep in mind that you might have a harder time during emergencies and evacuations. Moving in and out of the building is harder when you’re living on the top floors.
