Quote Originally Posted by emily_in_nc View Post
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Now we live in a first floor condo. We thought the noise would be minimal since this is a brand new concrete building, but we hear the people above us walking across their floor like elephants, we hear music, etc. Never again. We will only live on the top floor (if in a condo/apt) or in a townhouse, or in a single-family home. Even the top floor is not great because of worrying about our dog making noise and bothering those below us.

Earplugs are a way of life for me!
Much of this, I think, has to do with how the building is constructed. I live in a first floor apt, and there are people over me with dogs - several people have moved in/out since I've been here and my apartment is as silent as a house. I NEVER hear anything from my neighbors, very occasionally I MIGHT here a hint of a sound from their washing machine but that is it. Quietest place I've ever lived...