Single Level Rules
When choosing a home, there are oh-so-many things to consider. One of the key questions to ask yourself is whether you prefer a single-story or a multi-story home. In this discussion, we’ll explore a few of the advantages and disadvantages of single-story homes to aid your decision-making process.
Single-story homes, also known as ranch-style homes, surged in popularity during the mid-20th century. In 1973, they constituted two-thirds of all new home construction. However, today, they make up less than 50% of new homes.
Enough history..let's get into a few single level home rules.
- Easier Maintenance: Tasks such as painting, window cleaning, and stucco or wood repair are simpler with a single-story home.
- Energy Efficiency: As cold air descends and warm air ascends, it’s more challenging to maintain a consistent temperature in multi-story homes. This can lead to more frequent use of heating and cooling systems, thereby reducing energy efficiency.
- Privacy and Noise Reduction: Single-story homes can provide more privacy and a quieter environment due to less noise transfer compared to multi-story homes.
- Accessibility and Safety: Single-story homes offer better accessibility and safety, making them an excellent long-term investment. They are not only suitable for aging in place but also attract a wider range of potential buyers when selling.
However, single-story homes do have some drawbacks. They are more expensive to build due to the need for more slab, excavation, and roofing. Additionally, they occupy more space on the lot, leaving less room for a yard.