WHAT IS A SPLIT-LEVEL HOUSE AND SHOULD YOU INVEST IN ONE?
Are you considering investing in Real Estate and torn between bungalows, two-story houses, and split-level homes? Purchasing a property can be an overwhelming process with critical decisions to make. Many investments require careful consideration regarding the type of house being purchased. Split-level homes are one such variety that has gained popularity over time, due to their unique design and multi-functionality. As such, split levels can be a great fit for a real estate investment portfolio.
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In this blog post, we’ll break down the special characteristics of a split-level house, discuss its advantages and disadvantages, and share tips on whether this style should be considered part of your homeownership or investment strategy. Read on for all the answers!
DEFINING A SPLIT-LEVEL HOUSE
A split-level house is a type of residential building that features two distinct above-ground levels, with each level separated by only a few steps rather than a full story. Typically, the entryway and garage are on level one. If there is a basement, it is below level one. Level two contains the kitchen, living room and dining room, and are only four or five steps up from the hall entrance. Level three is where the bedrooms and primary bathroom are. Split-level homes became popular in the 1950s and 1960s, and still hold an appeal for many homebuyers.
Generally, split-level houses have an “L” shaped structure, and four to five walls in total. Because split-level houses have fewer steps to go from one level to another, the stairs feel less arduous than their two-story and three-story cousins. Other identifiable features of a split-level home include a low-pitched roof, a large picture window at the front of the house, and a garage that’s integrated into the design of the house rather than sitting separately from it.
THE PROS OF OWNING A SPLIT-LEVEL HOME
Split-level homes are becoming increasingly popular with savvy homebuyers. Not only do split-levels provide dynamic design options that appeal to the visual senses, but they also offer several benefits over traditional single-floor constructions.
· Split-level houses allow homeowners to separate living areas into two distinct sections, creating separate spaces and more individual zones within the house.
· They also tend to be more energy efficient than two story designs, as as heat and cooling can travel more effectively between half-stories than full stories.
· Additionally, split-level homes allocate additional space for storage and utility closets in their unique lower-level set-up.
· Overall, these types of dwellings can provide increased comfort and convenience for all occupants, making them a great choice for those who would like to optimize their living area conveniently.
THE CONS OF OWNING A SPLIT-LEVEL HOME
Owning a split-level home may not be the ideal choice for everyone since they are built around a unique design configuration.
· On the con side, split-level homes generally lack storage space due to their design, often featuring an attic and a basement that may be smaller than a standard two-story home, and thus are difficult to fully utilize.
· Additionally, these types of homes often require considerable effort when it comes to maintenance, because joining two levels that are only a few steps apart can bring additional issues in dealing with humidity or unbalanced temperatures.
· Finally, split-level houses offer less privacy than other traditional house designs, since each level usually consists of one large communal room rather than separate, individual ones. Additionally, the half-story rather than full-story separation of each level means the sound invariably travels easier, creating more noise and less privacy.
Needless to say, all of these factors have to be taken into consideration before investing in this type of house
TIPS FOR DECORATING AND FURNISHING YOUR NEW SPLIT-LEVEL HOME
Decorating and furnishing your new split-level home can be daunting, but it doesn’t have to be a stressful experience.
Start by taking the time to plan out the overall design scheme you’d like to create. Consider which type of furniture works well with the layout of the house, and fits within the parameters of your budget. Once you’ve settled on a general look and feel, bring in all of the pieces that will make up the space including sofas, chairs, cabinets, and other accessories.
Investing in furnishings that can fit both floors and even move between levels can help tie it all together, while helping maximize both function and form. Lastly, don’t forget storage solutions such as baskets or containers that are decorative yet practical for everyday use. With these tips in mind, you’ll be able to create a stylish, comfortable home you love in no time.
HOW TO MAKE THE MOST OF YOUR SPACE IN A SPLIT-LEVEL HOME
Making the most of your space in a split-level home can seem like a challenging task. The key is to make good use of both the main level and lower level.
To start, use furniture that has a small footprint to free up as much floor space as possible. Try to find multipurpose pieces, such as ottomans or desks that can be used for storage and seating. For items, you won’t be using very often, like seasonal decorations, consider converting one of the closets into a storage unit for easy access later on.
Make sure to hang artwork throughout the house, too – not just on the main level! This will tie your décor together and make it look like an extension of each other rather than two completely different homes. Plus, artwork adds character and life to any given room.
With these few simple tips, you can maximize every inch of your split-level while maintaining a stylish and inviting atmosphere.
THE BOTTOM LINE
Now that you know a bit more about split-level homes, their pros and cons, as well as some tips for decorating and furnishing your own, the answer to the question “Should you invest in a split-level home?” should be clearer. Ultimately, whether a split-level is right for you depends on your specific needs and preferences. But if you’re looking for extra living space without having to move too far away from urban conveniences, a split-level home could be perfect for you. Are you ready to take the plunge and invest in a split-level home of your own?
