Blog | One Homes

Elevated Living: Why Higher Ground Means Higher Value

Written by Saliha Aziz | Sep 26, 2025 2:42:47 PM

Does your home flood every monsoon? Have you noticed rust forming too quickly on metal fixtures, or damp creeping across walls long before it should? 

These flaws are not cosmetic at all, they’re indicators of hidden damage. The truth is, many homebuyers get caught up in the design and finishes but forget to ask the most important question: what about the land beneath the property?

At One Homes, we believe resilience starts with the ground. Every development goes through an 84-point land check to ensure safety, stability, and long-term value.

 

Floods, Risk, and Real Estate

Flooding is among the most damaging climate risks worldwide, contributing to hundreds of billions in losses from climate-related extremes. But for homebuyers, the cost is personal.

Common Problems from Poor Land and Low Elevation

  • Damp walls and mould that weaken structures and endanger health.

  • Foundation cracks caused by shifting or waterlogged soil.

  • Rising maintenance costs as repairs pile up year after year.

  • Insurance challenges with higher premiums and rejected claims.

These hidden costs mean that what looks like an affordable home at first can quickly drain finances. Choosing elevated land or higher floors dramatically reduces these risks.

 

Why Elevation Matters for Buyers

Choosing higher ground offers more than prestige, and ensures security. Homes on elevated plots or higher floors avoid the worst of flooding, dampness, and ground instability.

The Buyer’s Advantage

  • Lower repair bills: Fewer water-related issues mean less money spent on maintenance.

  • Peace of mind: Families don’t need to worry about annual flood seasons.

  • Higher resale value: Buyers increasingly favour resilient, climate-smart homes.

According to Oxford research,  flood risk affects more people globally than any other natural hazard, reshaping property demand.

 

Vertical Living: More Than Just a View

Vertical living is becoming the smarter choice for cities. It isn’t just about skyline views or luxury, it’s about building away from risks at ground level.

According to the United Nations, nearly 70% of the world’s population will live in cities by 2050, making vertical housing essential to manage both space and resilience.

Benefits of Higher Floors

  • Cleaner air and less dust than street level.

  • Privacy and reduced noise from urban traffic.

  • Natural light and views that improve well-being.

  • Added protection from floods, damp, and soil instability.


Building Smart Against Climate Change

The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) stresses that climate resilience must be part of modern construction, from land checks to smart design.


We combine resilient land selection with amenities and design that make elevated living desirable. From soil quality analysis to long-term climate vulnerability checks, every project is built to outlast shifting environments.

Key Takeaways for Buyers

When choosing your next property, think beyond interiors:

  • Check the land elevation, soil stability, and flood risk.

  • Look for developer transparency with documented surveys and resilience checks.

  • Prioritise long-term costs, not just upfront design appeal.

 

Higher Ground, Higher Confidence

Bad land brings hidden costs, from flooding to endless repairs. Elevated living offers a smarter path, combining security, sustainability, and long-term value.

At One Homes, we go beyond design, ensuring every project is climate resilient, future-ready, and built on secure ground. Because the real foundation of luxury isn’t marble floors or glass façades, it’s confidence in the ground beneath your home.