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The breakpoints have more to do with other parts of building codes. Wood framing is only strong enough to support three floors (unless you use cross laminated timber, which is a relatively new construction technology). Furthermore there are increasing requirements for fire suppression and accessibility as you add height. The breakpoints are basically either 2-floor duplex through quadplex that don't need elevators, or putting three floors of wood-framed apartments over a concrete or steel podium that contains commercial space and parking. Podium construction basically explains why so many 4 and 5 floor buildings get put up - it's significantly cheaper than the more expensive material required to make stuff strong enough for taller buildings.


Isn't the land a lot of the cost? Why isn't it worthwhile to spend 3x on construction and collect from 2x as many occupants?


Depends on the location. In the Bay Area a large portion of the cost is having your capital tied up for like 5+ years while trying to get your project approved.




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