When it comes to buying a flat or apartment the location may play a big part. But by location we’re not talking about a seaside resort, or somewhere overlooking the prairie.
We’re talking about the location being the top, middle or bottom floors.
Each has its ups and downs. So, which is best? Is one even better than another? And what are the ups and downs of living at the top, or at the bottom of an apartment block.
You and Yours
Properties by the sea, including many seafront apartments. It has given them a unique position on seaside properties.
They say that if you’re a residential buyer looking at apartments you have to consider things like your family, for example do you want to be traversing stairs with pushchairs, prams or even children. Do you want to be constantly checking the window handles to make sure they’re locked to prevent a serious accident?
And with the views and health benefits naturally coastal towns make perfect places to retire but you would need to consider whether climbing flights of stairs would be what you wanted on a daily basis.
But there is no question that the higher apartments offer the best views.
It’s possibly right to think that with seafront apartments it’s ‘the higher the better’. You want to get those sea views. And that is true. It’s great for your health. And perhaps even more relevant for buyers looking for a holiday home or rental property.
Overlooking the Views
When looking at apartments you’ll need to consider the practicalities of day-to-day life. The stairs are one issue, although if the apartment block has a lift, then stairs may not be a problem. But what else do you need to think about when choosing an apartment?
Imagine moving in with big furniture and no lift? Getting furniture around tight stairwells could mean even having to leave some behind if it just won’t fit. Seafront properties in general command a higher price and being that close to the sea may also mean extra maintenance costs.
A property slightly further inland can give you more bang for your buck, and the sea is still in easy reach.
Even if you’re not in a coastal town, having views over the city can command a premium price that a lower situated property might not.
Security
There are varying opinions on this. There is less chance of a burglar being disturbed on the top floor, however if there are no lifts it’s not practical for burglars to target top floor flats unless they are only grabbing smaller items. And a ground floor flat may be an easier target.
Making your property secure, the overall security of the apartment block and the area will all play a part in this.
Noise
Being at the top reduces the chances of being disturbed by your neighbours, while being in the middle areas increases the chances of hearing those next door to you or those above and below.
Being on the ground also means you could be disturbed by the comings and goings of the street.
Daylight
Being further up is likely to mean you’ll get more light. The closer you are to the ground the higher the chance of being shaded by other buildings, although this might not be such an issue for properties that are situated right on the seafront.
Ground floors might have easy access to a garden too.
If your apartment is in the middle ground then you’ll probably find a blend. But you’re pretty much guaranteed stable utility bills as those flats and apartments around you will keep you warm and cosy throughout the winter. It’s not unheard of for residents in middle apartments to not put heating on at all in the winter because they are insulated by the surrounding apartments.
Final Thoughts
As a fence sitting as it sounds, which floor is best for you depends on your personal circumstances and what you need on a day-to-day basis.
There are advantages of top floor flats and apartments (the best views, less chance of being disturbed) and disadvantages too (top floors can be more expensive and even a trip to get some milk means going up and down flights of stairs if there is no elevator).
And of course, there’s no-one above you.
Ground floors are easier to move into, but you could find yourself disturbed by the general street noise and the people living above.
Before you buy, check, or rent an apartment try to get a feel for the building and the area. If you’re relocating it pays to do as much research as you can before signing anything.
