Blog Post

Living the High Life - Which Floor is Best for You?

Raynor Powell • August 19, 2019
When buying a condo, especially a pre-construction condo, the higher the floor, the better. At least that is what most people will tell you. But is it always the case?

There certainly are many benefits to higher floors, but lower floors and ground floor units also have benefits. Your choice of floor should be based on your needs and preferences, as well as your budget.

And of course, the size of the building and its location are also key factors to consider when choosing a floor that’s best for you. Here is a quick overview of the pros and cons of different levels in condo buildings.

Ground Floor

When available, ground floor units can be very attractive as they can offer more outdoor space in the form of terraces or gardens. Let’s look at the pros and cons of the ground floor.

Pros
  • Cooler in the summer (heat rises)
  • Easy access - no elevators or stairs to take making these ideal for seniors or those with disabilities
  • Closer to your car and storage unit
  • No one below you so less chance of annoying your neighbours
  • Safer in emergencies
  • Some developments offer unique, sometimes larger floor plans for ground-level units
  • And as mentioned, they often have larger terraces or gardens
Cons
  • Security - potentially easier access to windows and doors
  • Views - you won’t have sweeping views of the city but a beautiful garden might be more to your taste
  • Less daylight (but that also means less heat in the summer)
  • Privacy - depending on your location your windows may be visible from the street
  • Noise & pollution - you’re closer to traffic and the dirt and pollution from the street
  • Price - in some developments, ground floor units come with premium designs and features and therefore, a premium price

Lower Floors

Depending on the size of the development, these pros and cons may also apply to mid or low-rise buildings.

Pros
  • Easier access than upper floors - less time in elevators and stairs are more manageable
  • Closer to your car and storage unit
  • Safer in emergencies
  • More daylight than the ground floor and better views
  • Potentially less traffic noise, dirt and pollution (most will find street noise a non-issue from about the 7th floor and up)
  • Less expensive than higher floors
  • More privacy potential than ground floor
  • Security - windows and doors are not as easily accessible to intruders
  • For investors, a greater potential for profit in the short term
Cons
  • Noise and pollution may be an issue depending on floor
  • Views may be obstructed by neighbouring buildings
  • Balconies may be smaller, however some modern developments provide extra terrace space at these levels
  • Prices go up as you go higher (an average of $1000/floor after a certain threshold)

Higher Floors

If you are looking at a high-rise building or penthouse suite, the biggest attraction of the higher levels is the view potential.

Pros
  • Obviously the views! The higher you are the more breathtaking the views
  • Little to no noise pollution (and less pollution overall)
  • Lots of daylight
  • Higher resale value and can command more rent (for investors)
  • Security - you can probably leave your windows open without fear of intruders
  • Often you will find enhanced suite designs or more bedroom options the higher you go
  • Higher return on investment over the long term
Cons
  • Cost - you will pay a premium price the higher you go with an average of $1000 per floor
  • Accessibility - longer elevator rides will add to your commute time and you’ll have a harder time getting out of the building in an emergency
  • Temperatures are warmer due to hot air rising so you may spend a bit more on air conditioning

So which floor is right for you?

Let me know your thoughts in the comments below or send me an email with any questions you might have about buying a condo.
A gingerbread house is sitting on top of a stack of Christmas presents.

What You Need to Know Before Buying a Home in Ontario

By Raynor Powell • November 21, 2024
Well, it’s officially the holiday shopping season and what could be better than shopping for a new home?
A brick building with a black door and pumpkins on the steps.

A Season of Optimism for Homebuyers

By Raynor Powell • October 15, 2024
While the fall months can feel busy and fast-paced, it’s important to understand and appreciate that the path to homeownership is a journey.
Pile of books

Hoarding and the Protection of Your Valuable Investment

By Raynor Powell • September 17, 2024
During the pandemic, condo owners and investors saw double-digit price growth in their units. This prompted some people to sell their investments and use the proceeds to upgrade their own living spaces. But what if - in the process of inspecting your investment to prepare it for sale - you discover your tenant is a hoarder?
More Posts
Share by: