TAIPEI (TVBS News) — As the pandemic situation gradually stabilizes in Taiwan, more and more homebuyers are looking for apartments with ventilation systems that connect to the outside and separate restrooms for each bedroom.
Now, the most popular apartments on the market have several restrooms and windows for better ventilation.
Following the strict quarantine regulations at the beginning of the pandemic, many living in Taiwan have come to appreciate the importance of having individual spaces to lower the risk of infecting one another.
Chien Chih-min, a real estate agent, remarked that most of his customers today request independent restrooms for bedrooms. "These apartments went on the market in May of this year, and we've sold about 70% now," he added.
They have since been coined "epidemic-prevention apartments" and boast designs and services that reduce contact with strangers or neighbors.
In particular, the buildings are often near parks or open spaces and have security guards manning the front desks so that packages can be delivered and signed by them.
Another aspect home-buyers are looking for is the residential buildings' proximity to hospitals.
After more than two years of living in the pandemic, many have acknowledged the importance of receiving quick medical aid when sick.
As the total number of confirmed COVID-19 cases in Taiwan surged past 8 million this year, the public is adjusting their expectations and requirements when seeking new homes in the post-pandemic era.