Deciding between one-story and two-story living

FALLBROOK – Uncertain about whether a one-story or two-story home aligns with your needs? The choice is influenced by individual preferences and requirements. To help you decide, here’s a comparison between a one-story home and a two-story home.

One-story homes are ideal for a range of individuals and situations, including but not limited to the following:

· Seniors: One-story homes are often preferred by seniors or retirees due to their ease of mobility. They eliminate the need to navigate stairs, making daily living more accessible and safer.

· Families with young children: Families with young children may find one-story homes more convenient, as they provide a single-level living space that’s easier to supervise and childproof.

· Individuals with mobility challenges: People with mobility challenges, whether temporary or permanent, benefit from the accessibility of one-story homes, where there are no stairs to navigate.

· Homeowners planning to age in place: If you plan to stay in your home as you age, a one-story layout can accommodate changing mobility needs and support aging in place.

· Those seeking energy efficiency: One-story homes often have a smaller footprint, which can make them more energy-efficient and cost-effective to heat and cool.

· Buyers on smaller lots: In areas with limited land space, one-story homes can maximize living area on a smaller lot.

· Investors targeting rental properties: Investors looking to attract a broad range of tenants, including those with mobility concerns, may find one-story homes appealing for rental properties.

Two-story homes are not perfect for everyone, but many owners who have two-story homes have pointed out that they are an excellent choice in the following situations:

· Families with older children: Families with older children or teenagers may appreciate the separation of living spaces that two-story homes offer. Bedrooms are typically located on the upper floor, providing more privacy for both parents and children.

· Big families: In San Diego, where land prices can be high, a two-story home can be a cost-effective way to maximize living space without increasing the size of your lot. Two-story homes can accommodate multigenerational living arrangements by providing separate living spaces on different levels, allowing for more privacy and independence for different generations.

· Home office users: Those who require a dedicated home office may find the layout of a two-story home conducive to creating a quiet workspace away from the common areas.

· Privacy seekers: Individuals who value privacy and prefer to keep the bedrooms separate from the living and entertainment areas may prefer two-story homes.

· Views and scenic locations: In areas with scenic views such as Valley Center, a two-story home can allow residents to enjoy these views from an elevated vantage point, adding to the overall appeal of the property.

· People concerned with security: Some people feel more secure sleeping on an upper floor, particularly in areas with security concerns or wildlife presence.

Consider factors such as your family size, mobility requirements, long-term plans, and the local real estate market when making your decision. Now that you know what kind of home fits your needs and are ready to make the #GreatMove of homeownership, don’t hesitate to contact our agents at Broadpoint Properties.

This article first appeared on Broadpoint Properties' website, https://servingsandiegocounty.com.

Submitted by Elisabeth Hartig Lentulo, broker associate, who can be reached at 760-532-1057, [email protected] or http://www.ehlentulo.com. CalBRE #01904564