A Resounding Trend in Vertical Living

Rapid urbanization and unstoppable population have forced governments to come up with solutions that will solve the constant threat of housing problems in major cities. This gave way to the emerging popularity of vertical living and the rise of condominium buildings that offer shelter and convenience in a high-rise setting. In the Philippines, it has become a sound alternative for those who can’t afford to buy the traditional house and lot that families usually prefer. It allows developers to maximize the little space left in urban areas and build more homes without consuming thousands of square meters of land.  The Rise of Vertical LivingIn this period of land shortage, there is no way to go but up.Photo from Simon & His Camera via Flickr, Creative Commons The trends in vertical living are now being marketed incessantly by developers as they introduce one high-rise project after the other. In China, developers are now working earnestly to build their vertical cities, which are basically residential skyscrapers, designed to provide everything residents need so that they don’t have to go out of the building complex. Living in vertical cities means more land can be preserved for farming and recreation. It’s their ultimate solution for addressing population and energy problems in densely-packed cities.   The current setting of vertical living sounds like a dream come true in which everyone, from developers to homeowners, will benefit. But of course, not everyone is as optimistic about it due to concerns in living arrangements. Common Worries About Vertical Living

• Stability

This is perhaps the primary concern of those who are considering buying a unit in a high-rise condo. Living hundreds of feet above ground is a scary thought so it’s only natural to wonder just how stable those buildings are. Just like other buildings, skyscrapers can get damaged by earthquakes or other calamities but the probability for this is quite low. These tall structures are designed to sustain the effects of even the stronger earthquakes. Years of planning are dedicated to making sure that these high-rises will not topple over during such events.  

• Safety

Potential condo buyers worry about what can happen during emergency situations in which residents have to evacuate. Because of the building’s height and the number of people living in it, it can become an evacuation nightmare. This shouldn’t be a problem if the developer will do its job of making sure that the building is designed to handle this type of situation. This involves setting up fire-fighting systems all over the building, putting refuge doors at every floor level, and making staircases wide enough to accommodate a large number of people during evacuation.   This is why it’s important that you choose a condo developer who has a stellar reputation when it comes to building safety.  Why Choose Vertical Living?Going up means getting away from noise and pollution.Photo from Jeffrey Zeldman via Flickr, Creative Commons  If the thought of living on the 40th floor scares the wits out of you, just consider the following benefits that you will enjoy if you become a high-rise resident:  

• You live in a prime location

Because in real estate, location is indeed everything. Developers are always scrambling to purchase lands in prime locations because potential buyers want to be close to everything: offices, shopping malls, tourist spots, and easy access to public transportation. Location and convenience are major selling points of high-rise condominiums.  

• You have access to essential amenities

Most high-rise buildings are already equipped with swimming pools, gym, salons, dry cleaners, restaurants, meeting rooms, and other amenities that will add to the convenience of the residents. This lessens the need for them to get out of the building just to do their basic errands.  

• You have an amazing view

Unless you have a genuine fear of heights, you will surely enjoy the great views from your high-rise unit windows. The view increases the value of your unit, which is great if you regard your condo as an investment.  

• You don’t have to worry about traffic noise and air pollution

The quality of air is better up there, free from the awful traffic pollution. Traffic noise is something you don’t have to deal with as well, especially if you’re living on the upper floors.

• You have 24-hour security

Condominium buildings have security people watching the doors 24/7, plus cameras scattered all over the place so you don’t have to worry about people from the outside breaking into your unit.  The DrawbacksHe may not be allowed to live up there.Photo from Christopher Michel via Flickr, Creative Commons Vertical living has its own set of drawbacks, which can actually become non-issues or advantages depending on the mindset of the resident.

• You have neighbors all around you

Unless you’re living on the ground floor or at the penthouse, chances are you have neighbors living above and below your unit. This can be a hassle if your upstairs neighbor likes to vacuum in the middle of the night or your downstairs neighbor holds loud parties frequently. But having neighbors around can also give a sense of security in case of emergencies, so this can become an advantage as well.  

• You can’t have pets

Most high-rise condos do not allow pets to reside in the units. Even if they allow you to have one, imagine the trouble you have to go through if you have to take your dog outside and you’re living on the 60th floor.

• You have to deal with building restrictions

Administrators of condo buildings often team up with their preferred utility suppliers, which can limit your choices. It’s a challenge if you want to avail of the services of a particular internet and cable provider. The same goes for renovations. The building administrator may allow you to use certain contractors only. You also have to coordinate with them regarding the schedule of repair work since the noise can affect your neighbors. Vertical living is here to stay, judging from the number of people who are investing their hard-earned money in high-rise units. If you want to become part of the vertical living community, it’s wise to do your research first to cover all your bases. If you need help in getting to know more about pros and cons of vertical living, you can contact a reputable high-rise developer so that your concerns can get addressed immediately.