Upsides and Downsides of Calling a Store Home

These days, more and more people are living right above shops, stores, and businesses. At first, it might seem super convenient to have everything you need right downstairs. But there are some important pros and cons to consider before jumping into this living situation.

Living above a store isn’t a new idea – shopkeepers have been doing it for ages. But now, regular folks like you and me are getting in on the action too. Developers love these “live, work, play” mixed-use projects because they make the most of the space and build in a loyal customer base. And residents are digging the walkable, community vibe. But there are a few potential downsides to be aware of if this is new territory for you.

There are some pretty sweet perks to living right above a store. If it’s a big supermarket, corner store, or anything in between, you can easily run down and grab what you need without having to hop in the car. That means less ordering in and more savings on delivery fees from apps like DoorDash. Plus, these mixed-use developments are often near public transit, with cool extras like e-bikes for residents. Just look at the Hudson Yards in NYC – they’ve got a subway station right in the middle of the neighborhood!

Another bonus is that you’ll be part of a lively, revitalized community. Take The Parks at Walter Reed in DC – they’ve got 323 apartments on top of a Whole Foods, plus a Starbucks and other services for residents. Having that energetic, buzzing area around you can make you feel super safe, especially if you live on your own.

But that convenience factor does come with some downsides too. For one, you might find yourself spending way more at the store downstairs, especially if it’s an upscale clothing or luxury shop. And if it’s a sketchy bodega or grocery store, you could be dealing with unwanted critters making their way up to your place. Plus, a busy store – especially one that’s open late – can bring a ton of noise that makes sleeping a real struggle.

The commercial real estate market is always changing too. If the development promises full storefronts but ends up with empty spaces, that’s not ideal. And if you’re a condo owner, having a store underneath could make it harder to sell down the line if some buyers aren’t into that idea. With the economy always in flux, who knows what the future might hold for your building.