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Is there any reason why single story homes are not popular in NC? We want to build a custom 1 story home, but not sure if we should or not. Do people prefer 2 story homes? I would think that with the aging demographics, people might want 1 story homes. I know it costs more per sq ft to build a 1 story, but would I get that back when I go to sell it years from now?
Is there any reason why single story homes are not popular in NC? We want to build a custom 1 story home, but not sure if we should or not. Do people prefer 2 story homes? I would think that with the aging demographics, people might want 1 story homes. I know it costs more per sq ft to build a 1 story, but would I get that back when I go to sell it years from now?
There seem to be plenty of older single story homes.....but really, we didn't even look at single story homes when we bought. Most folks just seem to prefer at least two stories. I don't know that you'd get the higher cost back, but I am no real estate expert.
There seem to be plenty of older single story homes.....but really, we didn't even look at single story homes when we bought. Most folks just seem to prefer at least two stories. I don't know that you'd get the higher cost back, but I am no real estate expert.
I'm no R/E expert either, but some thoughts:
1) I would guess that developers don't build 1-stories here for two reasons -- the higher per/S.F. costs of larger foundations/roof/structural support, and more importantly, land impacts. Taller homes mean greater density/acre means more profit.
2) I think you're dead to rights thinking long term in terms of people wanting to age in place... particularly in an area like the Triangle with good weather, world-class hospitals, golfing, etc. Even for a two-story home, if this is a consideration for you, find one with a first-floor master, and look for a builder who'll add "universal design" elements (things like slightly lower countertops and the like -- not noticeable to the everyday user, but someone aging in place or using a walker/wheelchair can still live in the house.)
That's exactly what my parents asked, they are getting up there and are not into climbing stairs.
Even for those with Arthritis or disabilities, you would think there would be a nice selection.
I would guess its due to the cost of a lot, single story homes take up more space.
Just my opinion
Quote:
Originally Posted by jedi
Is there any reason why single story homes are not popular in NC? We want to build a custom 1 story home, but not sure if we should or not. Do people prefer 2 story homes? I would think that with the aging demographics, people might want 1 story homes. I know it costs more per sq ft to build a 1 story, but would I get that back when I go to sell it years from now?
There seem to be plenty of older single story homes.....but really, we didn't even look at single story homes when we bought. Most folks just seem to prefer at least two stories. I don't know that you'd get the higher cost back, but I am no real estate expert.
It's not "folks" so much as developers! They can put twice as much house on the land and make more money by building so many two story homes. Ranch homes are always at a premium because there are never enough of them
It's not "folks" so much as developers! They can put twice as much house on the land and make more money by building so many two story homes. Ranch homes are always at a premium because there are never enough of them
I don't know about that...I see the tact that developers take....but at the same time....I know I don't want to live in a single story....but that is just our family. I do worry about what we'll do if my mother becomes ill and comes lives with us...but I'll cross that bridge if I come to it.
I just don't don't find a ranch at all apealing.....even if I had all the space in the world.
I don't know about that...I see the tact that developers take....but at the same time....I know I don't want to live in a single story....but that is just our family. I do worry about what we'll do if my mother becomes ill and comes lives with us...but I'll cross that bridge if I come to it.
I just don't don't find a ranch at all apealing.....even if I had all the space in the world.
I understand, I used to feel that way myself But my little ranch here in Charlotte is appreciating much faster than my neighbors two story homes exactly because they are in such demand with people over 50 who are tired of doing stairs, or have elderly parents coming to stay with them now. So, I've learned to love my little ranch for the profit it is going to make me when I sell Also, land really is at a premium and that's why typical lot sizes have shrunk too. Developers are squeezing more and more homes in areas now, so building up allows them to build more homes.
I understand, I used to feel that way myself But my little ranch here in Charlotte is appreciating much faster than my neighbors two story homes exactly because they are in such demand with people over 50 who are tired of doing stairs, or have elderly parents coming to stay with them now. So, I've learned to love my little ranch for the profit it is going to make me when I sell Also, land really is at a premium and that's why typical lot sizes have shrunk too. Developers are squeezing more and more homes in areas now, so building up allows them to build more homes.
It's the same in Portland. When people are ready to retire are they looking for resale or convenience of one floor living? I say convenience. IMO when the baby boomers start to retire ranches will be more in demand. Retirees and singles are snapping up the ranches in my neighborhood and they're selling for a greater per square foot price than splits or colonials. We got used to one floor living in Dallas, and I hate the stairs in my house now (especially vacuuming them. We've already decided if we can't find a ranch when we move to Raleigh, we'll rent until we do.
After just talking to my wife she did say what i thought, even our realtor said the same. your right " Lovesmountains" its all about money , ranches take up more space for sure.
I prefer a ranch over a 2 story.But in order to find one, you will likley have to settle for an older home, or maybe buy a lot and hire a builder, thats what my cousin did in NJ and Pa.
Quote:
Originally Posted by lovesMountains
It's not "folks" so much as developers! They can put twice as much house on the land and make more money by building so many two story homes. Ranch homes are always at a premium because there are never enough of them
"Of course, the average cost per square foot is less in a bigger house. ''You need at least $200 a square foot for a smaller house,'' says Eric Odor, a Minneapolis architect. ''You can spend less for a bigger house. That's because with a smaller house you've taken out the empty space, but still have the expensive space, like the kitchen and the bathroom.''
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single story homes!
