---
title: "Is a One Story or a Two-Story Home Better for You?"
url: "https://servingsandiegocounty.com/is-a-one-story-or-a-two-story-home-better-for-you/"
post_type: "post"
date_published: "2023-05-03T04:00:37+00:00"
date_modified: "2023-04-12T01:23:22+00:00"
categories: ["Buy a Home", "Buyers"]
---

# Is a One Story or a Two-Story Home Better for You?

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:
Image 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.