FAQs
One-story homes typically have fewer issues with roof and gutter maintenance due to their simpler design, while two-story homes may require more frequent maintenance due to increased wear and tear. Resale value and market demand can also play a role in determining which home type is a better financial investment.
What are the disadvantages of a single story home? ›
The big drawback of a one-story home is the same as its advantage in some ways: Everything is on the same floor, including your kitchen and bedrooms. That can mean less privacy and fewer opportunities to separate a cozy sleeping environment from, say, a bustling kitchen or family room.
What are the disadvantages of a two-story house? ›
CON: Stairs: constantly climbing stairs can be exhausting and cause injuries for children or seniors. Look for a home with an upstairs laundry room to make life easier. CON: Can be harder to heat or cool if you don't have a dual-zone system.
Are single story homes more valuable? ›
Not only will single-story homes garner a price premium, but their appeal to older buyers will typically expand the buyer pool and increase sales velocities. Gains in both price and absorption make single story a true win-win.
Are two-story houses worth more? ›
It's important to understand the difference in costs for a 2-story home or a 1-story home. People typically expect a 2-story home to be more expensive than a 1-story, but that's not always the case. A 1.5-story home is actually the most expensive. Learn why below.
What are the pros and cons of a one story house? ›
Floor Plan Function and Privacy
Single-story homes also don't offer as much privacy from the street since everything will be ground level. However, single-story homes provide a great use of space. Without stairs, there will be more usable square footage and potential for an open flow.
What are the advantages of a two story house? ›
More Space: A two-story home offers additional square footage at a better price compared to a ranch-style home because you are building up instead of out on a smaller footer with less roof coverage Two-story homes fit better on smaller lots because you have less square footage on the main level.
What are the negative effects of single stories? ›
The single story creates stereotypes, and the problem with stereotypes is not that they are untrue, but that they are incomplete. They make one story become the only story.
What are the disadvantages of a single-storey house? ›
Single-Storey Homes
- Con: Not as much space. It goes without saying, however, that a single-storey home won't offer as much space as a double-storey build. ...
- Pro: Generally less expensive. ...
- Con: You may have to give up the garden or big backyard. ...
- Pro: Greater privacy. ...
- Con: Your utility bills will go up.
Whether living with family, friends or on your own, everyone needs their own space. With a double-storey home, there is inherently more privacy because there is more space. So, with more room to retreat to, families won't feel like they are on top of each other.
Even though this type of addition is more complex than other types of additions, it can double your square footage, give you a restful new master suite, or even give the kids a space of their own. It can add a ton of value to your home, or simply help you stay in the neighborhood or school district you love.
Are two story homes more efficient? ›
Home efficiency
For the most part, a typical two-story home uses less energy than a one-story home of equal square footage. This is thanks in part to smaller foundation and roof space. However, other elements come into play when determining a home's energy usage, such as age and quality of materials.
Do not buy a one story home that is surrounded by two story homes.? ›
A single-story home is often prized and might sell more quickly than a two-story home in a suburban area, while people generally prefer multi-level properties in older city neighborhoods. Do not buy or build a one-story home that's surrounded by two-story homes. You could run into resale issues.
Why are most Florida homes one story? ›
THE TROPICAL FLORIDA WEATHER
Hot air rises, so keeping your home only one story can cut down on your cooling bill and help the whole house feel more comfortable. Single story homes can also fare better with hurricane-like conditions. Homes with two or more stories catch more wind.
What is one advantage a two story home has over a one story home? ›
More Privacy
Conversely, two-story homes allow you to separate private and public zones. Two-story designs offer more privacy by having bedrooms upstairs and common areas like kitchens and living rooms downstairs. Family members can have their own space while still being close by.
Is a one story or two-story house more energy efficient? ›
Home efficiency
If your home's energy efficiency is a concern, you may want to consider a two-story house. For the most part, a typical two-story home uses less energy than a one-story home of equal square footage. This is thanks in part to smaller foundation and roof space.
What is one advantage a two-story home has over a one story home? ›
More Privacy
Conversely, two-story homes allow you to separate private and public zones. Two-story designs offer more privacy by having bedrooms upstairs and common areas like kitchens and living rooms downstairs. Family members can have their own space while still being close by.
Is it cheaper to build a 2 story house or 1 story with a basem*nt? ›
That depends on market and current material prices
Generally speaking, building up tends to be less expensive than a basem*nt. That said, not too long ago, lumber was at an all-time high and basem*nts were the better option. Check with your builder and they can advise you on the pros, cons, and cost of each.
Is it worth adding a second story? ›
Whether a second story is worth it depends on the structure of your current home. If your home and its foundation can handle the weight of a second story, it is a cost-effective way of doubling your square footage without eating up lawn space. The extra rooms can raise your property value as well.
