Wow, can I relate to this issue. I have been living in my 2nd floor condo in a 3 story building, for 18 years. This is a somewhat older building (translation: poor soundproofing), that was made even worse after a large So. Calif. earthquake ten years ago.
Even with a carpeted upstairs unit, the clomping around and TV/stereo noise was terriblly annoying, and resulted in many complaints to the home owners association. In most cases, the upstairs neigbors attempted to modify their behavior. Now, the above unit has been resold, and the new owner installed hardwood floors throughout. The problem is now so much worse, I'm ready to jump off my balcony head first.
Moving is not an option. With median housing prices over 1/2 million, and retirement only 10 years away, I cannot afford to move. My plan has been to finish paying my mortgage and retire here. Now, I'm completely devastated.
What can I do?