L
iving above a storefront has its perks - think easy access to your favorite coffee shop or quick stops for supplies. Mixed-use developments, also known as "vertical villages," combine residential and commercial spaces in one building. In 2021, over 43,700 apartments were built in these communities, compared to just 10,000 in 2012.

    However, there are downsides to living above a business. As Doug Perry notes, the convenience can also be a curse when you want a quiet night at home but are still surrounded by activity. He warns that condos in mixed-use developments may struggle to sell for a good price.

    Ryan Bullock adds that newer construction buildings often lack soundproofing, making it difficult for tenants to escape noise from stores below. "Developers rush to build these new mixed-use buildings to get them rented out quickly," he says. "But if you live above a noisy store, it can be a problem."

    Some people love living above shops they frequent, as seen in TikTok videos showcasing the convenience of having a bodega or coffee shop downstairs. However, this setup can also lead to overspending, with one user joking that they'd go broke in the first week.

    Living above a restaurant comes with its own set of issues, including strong odors from cooking and grease buildup. One TikTok user complains about the smell of gasoline and fried chicken wafting into their apartment every day. Others have noted the problem of cigarette smoke drifting up to apartments from people gathering outside.

    Late-night noise can also be a problem for those living above restaurants or bars, especially if they're open late. One user documented the noisy scene outside his balcony, complete with live music and people dining at night. Even quieter sounds like singing and laughing from an ice cream shop below can get old when you're trying to sleep or watch a movie.