High Rise Apartment vs Low Rise Floors 2025 : A Fresh Perspective for end users
The debate between high-rise apartments and low-rise independent floors is a timeless topic in real estate. Both housing options offer unique benefits and drawbacks that appeal to different buyer preferences. Having lived in both types of homes, I will provide a balanced perspective on their respective advantages and disadvantages. With Gurugram’s growing real estate market as the backdrop, this discussion will also touch on appreciation trends, lifestyle considerations, and long-term investment potential. Let’s dive in.
Real Estate Appreciation Trends in Gurugram
Over the past few years, Gurugram has experienced a significant uptick in housing demand, leading to impressive price appreciation for both high-rise and low-rise properties. High-rise apartments have witnessed a nearly 2x increase in value since the COVID-19 period. This surge is primarily driven by rising demand for panoramic views, privacy, and luxury amenities that high-rises often promise.
Low-rise floors have also appreciated, albeit at a slightly lower rate of around 1.6-1.7x their pre-pandemic values. However, low-rise floors are still considered undervalued by many experts, mainly because many new low-rise societies have not yet handed over possession to end-users. Several DDJAY (Deen Dayal Jan Awas Yojana) projects, such as DLF Garden City Enclave 93, M3M Soulitude, and Signature City 93, are expected to hand over possessions soon, which could trigger price increases.
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Key Differences Between High-Rise and Low-Rise Floors
1. Pricing and Market Potential
High-rise apartments generally command higher prices than low-rise independent floors. In the current market, high-rise units are often priced 25-30% more than their low-rise counterparts for similar carpet areas. Low-rise floors, however, still have room for appreciation. Many buyers believe that as possession begins in newer low-rise projects, prices will rise, potentially narrowing the price gap with high-rises.
2. Density
Density is a critical factor for homebuyers who value privacy and space.
- High-rise apartments have a typical density of around 70-75 units per acre, making them more crowded and offering less open space per resident.
- Low-rise developments average 55-60 units per acre, providing a more spacious and less congested environment.
This difference in density has a direct impact on the quality of life. Fewer units per acre in low-rise communities mean less noise, more privacy, and generally a more relaxed living experience.
3. Amenities
High-rise apartments are often known for their extensive amenities, including large clubhouses, swimming pools, gyms, sports courts, banquet halls, spas, and libraries. However, the cost for these amenities is factored into the higher price of high-rise apartments.
Low-rise communities are catching up in terms of amenities, especially in newer projects. While they may not have the expansive clubhouses of high-rises, many still offer essentials like gyms, swimming pools, and common areas. It’s important to evaluate how many amenities you will use regularly. Paying 25-30% more for luxury amenities you rarely use may not be worthwhile.
4. Land Ownership
One of the most significant advantages of low-rise floors is land ownership. In low-rise developments, homeowners typically own both the land and the floor, giving them a larger share of the land than high-rise residents. For example:
- In a 10-acre township with 750 high-rise units (75 units per acre), each unit has a smaller land share.
- In the same-sized low-rise development with 600 units (60 units per acre), each unit has a larger land share.
This larger land share can have long-term benefits, especially in prime locations, as land value tends to appreciate more steadily than building value. Additionally, low-rise buildings generally have better longevity due to easier maintenance and less exposure to harsh climatic conditions.
Privacy, Security, and Views
Privacy
Privacy is often better in low-rise floors. With only 3-4 units per building, residents share common spaces with far fewer people than in high-rise buildings, where there may be atleast 80-90 units or more per tower. In high-rises, shared elevators and corridors can feel crowded, especially during peak hours.
In high-rise apartments, there are typically 2-3 balconies, including a utility balcony. However, out of these, only one balcony generally offers full privacy, while the other two may lack seclusion due to the building’s layout. Similarly, low-rise apartments often feature 2-3 balconies, but privacy can also be limited as these buildings are more closely packed, making it harder to enjoy a peaceful moment with a cup of tea. That said, certain premium units in low-rise communities are thoughtfully designed to offer the same level of privacy in at least one balcony.
It’s worth noting that the main balcony in high-rise apartments is usually positioned to offer a secluded, uninterrupted view with no building directly in front. However, this privacy is often temporary because future high-rise developments could obstruct the view. On the other hand, in low-rise communities, you generally know what to expect in terms of surrounding developments. Even if changes occur, they are less impactful due to the horizontal nature of low-rise construction.
Low-rise floors typically offer more personal space, and some premium units come with open views, enhancing the sense of privacy.
Security
There is a common misconception that low-rise floors offer inferior security compared to high-rises. However, modern low-rise communities in gated townships now provide 3-tier security systems, similar to high-rise buildings. These security measures include guarded entry gates, CCTV surveillance, and intercom systems.
Views
High-rise apartments are renowned for their panoramic views of city skylines. The peace and tranquility of gazing out from a 20th-floor balcony are unmatched for many buyers. However, these views come at a premium. For example, a 2-crore low-rise unit may cost 2.5-2.8 crore for the same carpet area in a high-rise. This price difference can add up significantly over the life of a mortgage.
While low-rise units may not offer the same skyline views, they often come with terraces and basements, which can be used for relaxation or as home offices. In contrast, high-rises typically don’t offer such flexible spaces, unless you opt for ultra-luxury societies. Even in cases where high-rises offer rooftop access, these spaces may have restrictions due to safety regulations.
Lifestyle Considerations
Lifestyle is a crucial factor in choosing between high-rise and low-rise living.
Amenities vs. Cost
High-rises often provide resort-style living with access to a wide range of amenities. However, it’s essential to consider how frequently you’ll use these facilities. If you’re paying a 25-40% premium for amenities that you rarely use, the additional cost may not be justified.
Low-rise floors offer the benefit of more personal space. Basements and terraces can be customized into home offices, gyms, or private relaxation areas—perfect for work-from-home lifestyles.
Temporary Experiences
If you crave the high-rise lifestyle occasionally, consider booking short stays at high-rise apartments through Airbnb. This allows you to enjoy the views and amenities without committing to higher mortgage payments.
Conclusion
Both high-rise apartments and low-rise floors offer unique advantages, depending on your preferences and lifestyle needs:
- Low-Rise Floors: Provide better privacy, lower density, independent land ownership, and more flexibility with terraces and basements. They are also more affordable in the current market.
- High-Rise Apartments: Offer stunning views, luxury amenities, and a more resort-like lifestyle, albeit at a higher cost and density.
Ultimately, the choice comes down to personal priorities. Whether you prioritize panoramic views and amenities or privacy and space, both options can provide fulfilling lifestyles. Carefully consider your long-term needs and financial situation to make the best decision for your future home. Let us know if you would like our help in taking this major decision based on your short term or long term goals. Click here for Real Estate Consultancy.