Bungalows continue to be one of the most popular home styles today. Why? Investors or first time home buyers love them because the large foundation footprint means you can add an income suite relatively easily. Downsizers love them because 'one level living' means few stairs to navigate!
Bungalows come in several styles, I thought I would explain each layout to you so you can pick your favourite! Depending on where you are looking these styles may be available in freehold, condo or life lease options.
1. Traditional Bungalow: Pictured above is a typical 1960's 3 bedroom bungalow. Found all over the GTA from East York to Etobicoke, generally these homes are about 900 sq ft on the main floor for a 2 bedroom & 1200 ft on the main floor for the 3 bedroom. Occaisionally you will also find 4 bedroom bungalows, but they are pretty rare. Built from the 1930's through the 1960's, the older ones will NOT have 'modern' features like: a main floor family room, en-suite or direct garage access. There are lots of bungalows built from the 1980's to now that have these modern features; I have found they are generally outside the GTA.
2. Ranch Bungalow: The layout differs slightly from the first bungalow in that the house is set widthways on the lot. Generally the lot is wider & the bedrooms stretch across the width of the house (in style #1 the bedrooms are across the back of the home, with one on the side). This type sometimes sells for more, because the lots are generally wider.
3. Raised Bungalow: As you can see by the picture at the right, the upper level sits above the garage. While it includes the living room, dining room & bedrooms, in this style of bungalow there will be a flight of stairs either inside or outside the home to get to the main level. The basement is usually level to the ground; and the basement may be smaller because if there is a garage, it will take up some of the basement area.
4. Semi-Detached Raised Bungalow: Similar in style to a raised bungalow, these homes share a common wall with a neighbour. The advantage? Generally a significantly lower price than a detached bungalow!
5. Semi-Detached Bungalow: Similar in style to a regular bungalow, these homes share a common wall with a neighbour. Again, generally a significantly lower price than a detached bungalow & usually they do not have a garage. The right downspout on the picture above is the common wall between the homes.
6. Bungaloft: While the above home is attached to it's neighbours, because the main floor has the master bedroom and laundry it's called a bungaloft. There is a loft area (which sometimes has a guest bedroom) making it a two storey home. This is a popular style for downsizers who want all thier living on one level but the privacy of a guest suite on a second floor. Here's a peek of the inside showing the loft area
I hope you enjoyed viewing different bungalow styles - what's your favourite? Give me a call if you'd like to explore buying a bungalow home; I have done extensive research on which areas you can find the best bungalow home to meet your needs!
