When choosing a new home, one of the first decisions is whether to go with a one-story or two-story layout. Each option has its own pros and cons, and the best choice depends on your lifestyle, future plans, and personal preferences.
This guide breaks down the advantages and disadvantages of both layouts and covers key factors like lifestyle, market trends, and personal preferences. By the end, you’ll have a better understanding of which option fits your vision for your dream home.
Cost Considerations
One of the key factors homebuyers think about when deciding between one-story and two-story homes is cost. Both options can fit a variety of budgets, but their cost structures are different.
Upfront Costs
- One-story homes: These need a larger foundation and roof, which increases material and labor costs. For example, a one-story home with the same square footage as a two-story home might use up to 15% more land and materials.
- Two-story homes: Building upwards is often more affordable per square foot since less foundation and roofing are required, saving on construction costs.
Property Taxes
One-story homes use more land, potentially leading to higher property taxes. Two-story homes use less land, but in areas that tax based on square footage, they might have higher taxes.
Maintenance Costs
- One-story homes: Easier and cheaper to maintain. Tasks like roof repairs, gutter cleaning, and window washing are simpler.
- Two-story homes: Maintenance can be more expensive. Jobs like painting or cleaning second-story windows often require specialized tools or professionals.
Energy Costs
Two-story homes can have higher energy bills because it’s harder to keep temperatures consistent—heat rises, making the upper floor warmer. One-story homes usually have more even heating and cooling, which can save money over time.
When deciding between the two, homebuyers should consider upfront savings, maintenance, and energy costs to see which option works best for their budget and lifestyle.
Lifestyle Factors
Your lifestyle plays a big part in choosing the right type of home for your family. Here’s what to keep in mind:
Accessibility
- One-story homes: Great for families with young kids, retirees, or anyone with mobility issues. With no stairs, these homes are safer and easier to navigate.
- Two-story homes: Stairs can be a safety concern for young children, older adults, or those with limited mobility. But for others, stairs can add character and practicality.
Privacy and Noise
- One-story homes: Bedrooms and living spaces are usually close together, which can make noise travel more easily. In busy households, this might be a challenge.
- Two-story homes: Bedrooms upstairs create natural separation from living areas, offering more privacy and quieter spaces. This is ideal for larger families or noisier lifestyles.
Room Layout
Two-story homes often separate public areas (like the living room and kitchen) from private spaces (like bedrooms or offices), giving more flexibility. One-story homes usually have open layouts, making everything feel connected and within easy reach.
Think about your family’s needs. If convenience is a priority, a one-story home is a great choice. For more privacy and space separation, a two-story home might be better.
Resale Value
Thinking about resale value is important, even if you’re not planning to sell anytime soon.
- One-story homes: Single-story homes often attract a wide range of buyers, including retirees, families with young children, and people with mobility needs. This broader appeal can make it easier to sell in many markets.
- Two-story homes: Two-story homes may not appeal to everyone, but they are popular with larger families, buyers who value privacy, or those who prefer separate spaces for living and sleeping. They’re also a great option in areas with smaller lot sizes, as they make better use of vertical space.
Personal Preferences
Your decision ultimately depends on your personal preferences and how you want to live in your home.
- Prefer convenience? A single-story home keeps everything on one level for easy living.
- Want more outdoor space? A two-story design saves yard space for you to enjoy.
- Have a specific style in mind? Ranch homes work well as single-story designs, while styles like colonial or Victorian are better suited for two-story layouts.
Final Advice for Homebuyers
Choosing the perfect home layout is the first step in your homeownership journey. To make a well-informed decision:
- Take your time exploring both one-story and two-story models to truly experience their flow and functionality.
- Share your long-term aspirations with a knowledgeable real estate agent or home builder who can align your vision with the right design.
- Focus on quality construction, energy efficiency, and practicality over aesthetics to ensure your new home is as functional as it is beautiful.
Make Your Choice with Confidence
Deciding between a one-story and two-story home is an important choice, but there’s no single “right” answer. The best option depends on your lifestyle, future plans, and personal preferences.
If you prioritize accessibility, low maintenance, or plan to age in place, a one-story home might suit you better. If privacy, extra space for a growing family, or maximizing square footage is more important, a two-story home could be the way to go.
Find your next home with FCB Homes. We build one- and two-level homes in Lodi and Riverbank. Visit us online at FCBHomes.com to learn more about our new construction homes and find your new home.
