Page 18 - 來學華語課本第五冊

Lesson 01 住宅的類型

Low-rise apartment buildings

A low-rise apartment building typically has four or five floors, with two residential
units per floor. Since these are generally older buildings with aging facilities, and feature

walk-up apartments with no elevator access, the rent is relatively modest, making
them suitable for those on tight budgets. In addition, low-rise apartment buildings are
generally located in areas with excellent amenities, so restaurants, convenience stores

and supermarkets are easily found nearby. Transportation is also convenient, usually with
the presence of bus stops and Mass Rapid Transit stations. However, low-rise apartment

building residents generally have to take out their own trash, and apartment parking spaces
are scarce or even nonexistent.

Mid-rise apartment buildings

Mid-rise apartment buildings span approximately six to twelve stories in height and
always have elevators. They are relatively newer than low-rise apartment buildings, have
more modern facilities, and generally include parking spaces. Some have centralized trash

disposal areas, while some do not. The rent is higher than low-rise walk-up apartments, but
cheaper than high-rise building units, making them suitable for people who need an elevator

but don’t want to pay too much rent.

High-rise apartment buildings

High-rise apartment buildings are usually more than ten stories high and have
elevators, building managers, and trash disposal systems, and some are outfitted with gyms,
swimming pools, and even KTV rooms. Security management is quite good, with 24-hour

security guards. Residents must use electronic access cards to enter the building, even to
the floor where they live. However, the building management fees are high. If the landlord
does not pay the management fee, the residents have to pay it themselves. People who value

safety and adequate amenities, and who have a relatively ample budget can consider living
in a high-rise building.

Townhouses

A townhouse is a single-family residence, usually two to four stories high, with an
independent front gate, its own yard and garage, making it suitable housing for an ordinary

family. Townhouses offer plenty of space, quiet surroundings, and relative freedom of
living. However, many are located in the suburbs, where there are few means of mass
transportation. Generally speaking, most residents drive themselves. In addition, residents

must take out their own trash.

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