Unsure whether a one-story or a two-story home is a right fit for you? It depends on individual preferences and needs. Here are some factors to consider:
Space
Given the same lot size, a two-story home could offer more livable space than a one-story home. Perfect if you need more space for your family, have guests frequently, or need an office or dedicated workspace. You’ll need a much larger lot size for a bungalow if you wanted to accommodate more people and home features — which can be costly.
Accessibility
A one-story home is a good choice to accommodate mobility issues for elders and people with disabilities. They can also choose to stay in the downstairs room of a two-story home.
Energy efficiency
Depending on the property size, a one-story home may be more energy efficient, as it typically has a smaller roof and less exterior wall area to insulate.
Resale value
Two-story houses may be more desirable and may have a higher resale value. However, this can vary depending on the local housing market and the preferences of potential buyers.
Maintenance
A two-story home may require more maintenance, as it has a larger roof and more exterior surfaces to maintain — meaning higher costs for upkeep and repairs over time.
A one-story home might be fit for you:
- If you have kids, or are planning on having kids, then you may want to consider the fact that stairs can be dangerous.
- Some argue that one-story homes are easier to clean. Dust settles in odd and hard-to-reach places in multi-level homes, and dragging cleaning equipment up and down stairs is not fun either.
- If, knock on wood, a fire occurs in the home, escape is easier from a single-level home compared to a two-story home.
- If you have older people in your home, climbing up stairs routinely may be an issue.
- If you have older people in your home, climbing up stairs routinely may be an issue.
A two-story home might be fit for you:
- Typically require less land than single-level homes
- Typically, building two-level homes is cheaper and easier
- Some people prefer two-level homes because it makes them feel safer should a burglary occur
- Families with older children sometimes prefer having stairs in the house, as it provides a natural separation of living space from the general areas of the home
- If you’re the active type, stairs won’t have a negative connotation. Rather, you’ll view it as part of everyday exercise
Below is a helpful infographic from Infogram:
Bottomline, choosing between a one-story or two-story home depends on your needs and preferences. Consider the factors and comparisons mentioned above before making a decision. And once you’re ready to find either a one-story or a two-story home, contact our agents at Broadpoint Properties.
