“Should I Buy a Single-Story or Two-Story Home?” 

With so few options in today’s housing market and very little inventory, it’s a no wonder so many buyers are seeking solutions for buying a Ranch-Single-Story or a 2-Story home. Well, we are here to break it down for you to where you’ll be 1-step ahead of other homeowners with a big giant question mark over their head. Here are 9-Advantages to Buying a Single Story Home You Need to know. 

Advantage #1—Safety First.

Whether you are someone looking for your first home or you’re retired and need something with easy accessibility, a single-story home is safer than a two story without the stairs. Stairs can be difficult to maneuver. In addition, children can sometimes break down baby gates and even the most graceful person in the world can have an accident. Single-story homes rarely have these issues. Look for properties with easy access to basements as well. 

Advantage #2—Escape is Easier without Jumping from the 2nd Story

The reality is fires can happen. With a single-story home you have less risk of injury during one of these events and can escape faster without jumping out of a 2nd story. This aspect alone may have you motivated to seek more single-story and ranch-style homes. 

Advantage #3—Single Homes are More Energy Efficient

Skyrocketing prices for fuel is soaring, where we all need to be conscious of energy efficiency. A single-story home cost less to heat or cool because these homes are obviously smaller. That being said, you may actually save money in the long run from lower electricity bills. This is a wonderful reason for homeowners to shop in this housing market. 

Advantage #4—Maximize Space  

With single-story properties you don’t have the staircase to take up additional square footage. Often, that will mean more use of the actual space allowing you to maximize the floor-plan. In addition, many of the newer construction and renovated houses offer open layouts giving you the look and feel of a larger home. Space maximized without a doubt. 

Advantage #5—There is a Higher Chance of Resale Value 

A higher resale value is appealing to first-time home buyers who live in a property for approximately 15-years before upgrading. They have a higher chance of resale in the Colorado market with many new people moving into the area among other folks just getting started. In the event you’re looking into downsizing, single-family homes with one level are also more viable as they make the ideal retirement setting. 

Advantage #6—A Better Solution for Retirees 

Imagine having an upstairs and downstairs where the noise of someone above you determines your peace-of-mind. With a single-story home, retirees have more privacy with tranquil environments. These homes also require less maintenance and are much easier to keep clean, which is a win-win for everyone. 

Advantage #6—Single Story Doesn’t Mean Less Luxury

With many of the newer builds in the Loveland market, single-story doesn’t mean less luxury where 14’- entryways, raised ceilings and a variety of amenities can give you the appearance of a modern mansion without the same price. In fact, many of today’s buyers are seeking amenities which include open kitchen to living room concepts with volume rather than walls taking away additional space. Architects and builders are finding novel ways to present plans including all the fun like quartz or granite counters, designer chef kitchens and spa-style bathrooms adding the little touches to make these home premier destinations. 

Advantage #7—Square Footage Versus # Of Bedrooms

In most cases, square footage on a two-story home is less expensive because of construction being stacked on top. However, the cost of bedrooms can mean more. According to an article by fixr.com, the average cost of a 1-Bedroom property is around $195,000 (Depending on Region). Whereas a 4-Bedroom home falls into the $560,000 range. Either way, there are always possibilities of finding what you’re seeking at a price you’re willing to pay. Working with experienced REALTORS® allows you an opportunity to see properties before they go “Live” on the MLS, giving buyers the advantage of a fair price without the bidding wars.

Advantage #8—There is Still a Good Selection of Inventory for 55+

The 55+ communities are still in high demand but there are home available now, whereas the single-family subdivisions seem to dry up across the state. In 2020 we have seen an influx of people wanting to move into communities full of families and children which drove the housing market into a frenzy. You can still find an acceptable amount of properties in the retirement neighborhoods; with resort-style amenities for our seniors to enjoy. Ask me more!

Advantage #9— Get Outdoors F-A-S-T-E-R

Ranch-style homes were developed to bring people to the great outdoors faster. With one-level you can slip out back to the deck or patio and enjoy that awesome Colorado breeze. There is a cozy appeal for single adults; which is yet another reason these properties are so dang popular. It boils down to a matter of preference. But we think happiness is wherever you take your boots off.

We hope you found this information helpful for your next home purchase or to share with someone trying to solve this problem of 1 or 2-story homes. For further help or if you’d like to get the inside scoop on up-and-coming properties.

Advantage #8—There is Still a Good Selection of Inventory for 55+

The 55+ communities are still in high demand but there are home available now, whereas the single-family subdivisions seem to dry up across the state. In 2020 we have seen an influx of people wanting to move into communities full of families and children which drove the housing market into a frenzy. You can still find an acceptable amount of properties in the retirement neighborhoods; with resort-style amenities for our seniors to enjoy. Ask me more!

In the meantime, best wishes from myself and my C3-team.

To reach John Feeney, dial 970-231-4172 or email jfeeney@c3-re.com.