Single storey vs double storey homes. This is a question asked by a number of our clients. When buying a house and land package, there are a large variety of choices to select from, both internally and externally. If the buying intention is to purchase a home to occupy or to invest, no one person settles on the same type of home. In this market insight, we discuss the difference between a single storey and a double storey home.
Land size
Before deciding what type of house you want, the first consideration that must take precedence, is the size of the block of land you intend to build on. Due to housing affordability many buyers have reverted to purchasing smaller blocks to cater for their budget. As the block gets smaller this may also restrict the type of house you can construct. In these cases when a block is smaller a double storey residence would make more sense. If you are still wanting a four bedrooms house with some form of outdoor space. Building up rather than across the block of land allows you to potentially have an alfresco, garden shed and some back yard for your children.
Some blocks of land may also have easements, which can also restrict the build. If this is the case, it doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy the outdoor area of the block, it just means you need to reconsider the build. Adopting a double storey may be the best way to have the internal space you desire. The more narrow the block, the cheaper the land may be. If this is the case, a double storey is a better option if you are trying to have a secured lock up garage, particularly a double garage.
If the block is larger, it doesn’t stop you from having a double storey, but the cost of building a single storey may present a more feasible option. This is discussed in the next point below.
Building costs
When considering the cost of building a single storey vs double storey home, you will quickly acknowledge a single storey house is much cheaper. The cost difference can be approximately 30% more when building a double storey home. This is taking into consideration that the internal size of the home is the same.
There are a number of extra costs associated with building a second level to your home. These costs can include the following:
- Plans and permits relating to obtaining approvals from the local council or other regulatory third parties.
- Having multiple staircases and/or balustrades.
- Scaffolding is required to build the second level safely and under specified building codes.
- Steel manufacturing to support the additional leave.
These are just some of the additional requirements that require further costs. In order to also eliminate the uncertainty of varying build expenses, including site costs a full turn-key is recommended. Build time frames are also longer when selecting a double storey and this may impact more interest paid on your construction loan as it takes longer to develop. More on timeframes, let’s explore this in the next point.
Building timeframe
You can expect a double storey to take longer to build. Each builder has their own standard build times, but you can assume it will take three to six months longer to build a double storey. They essentially have the same build stages but it requires more time. A single storey can often take about six months to construct a standalone house.
Maximising your property
When selecting a single storey you may find the open floor plan and second living area captures more internal space. A double storey can gain the same space, but you’ll need to remember that the staircase to enter the next level takes a lot of internal areas. This will reduce the ground level living area. To make up for this lost space, you may need a larger house to the single storey to create a second living area upstairs (i.e. retreat room).
If the location of the home has a view to take advantage of, a double storey may take further interest. The top level may get a better view in comparison to the ground level. Some homes have some captivating surroundings including wetlands, parks/reserves and wildlife to name a few.
Age of the buyer
This is more relevant to an owner occupier. If you are an older person, you may not have the physicality to walk up and down stairs regularly. A younger family may also see the staircase as a hazard for the children. A middle aged or mature aged family may take a great appreciation by separating the family within the home. Multigenerational families have become more common. A double storey may have an easier designed floor plan to have a master bedroom both on the ground floor and first floor.
For a couple, they may not effectively use the first floor as they would being on the ground floor.
Energy efficiency
With today’s technology, many new homes have great energy efficiency. To keep a home cooler in summer and warmer in winter, it’s definitely easier and in general terms cheaper to do so within a single storey home.
Single storey vs double storey homes – which is better?
There isn’t a right or wrong answer… Before making your decision, you need to take into consideration your budget, lifestyle and future needs. If it’s for investment purposes or to occupy, this can play a large contributor to the decision.
Want to buy a home?
At Crest Property Investments, we specialise in sourcing brand new and off the plan properties for buyers. We have been working with many buyers from first home buyers, owner occupiers and savvy investors. If you’d like some assistance in buying the right property, please don’t hesitate to contact us. We welcome the opportunity to help you make the best property decision.
Our YouTube channel is also a helpful resource to learn and listen to other property tips.
While we have taken care to ensure the information above is true and correct at the time of publication, changes in circumstances and legislation after the displayed date may impact the accuracy of this article. If you want to learn more please contact us. We welcome the opportunity to assist you.
June 2022
