I agree with the other posts here. In addition to the facts you were given I would also consider the fact that the aging population has created an increased demand for one story homes. The trend has gone from one story to two story back to one story homes again. Even starter families are starting to see the benefits of a one story home. Finished basements do help increase the square footage and expand the opportunities for familys to increase the living area. There is no hard and fast rule but I seem to sell more ranch homes as new construction homes than I do two story homes. Have a great day!
Derek Tye
513-478-3794

Curt I have found that a ranch with a good layout and a basement will sell quicker than most other properties in our area. There are people that want/need one level living and will only look at ranches. People that do not need to have everything on one floor will look at ranchs if there is enough room in them and they have the area or rooms that they need. A nice sized ranch in our area is going to get more showings in my experience. Price and condition will sell it.

By the way when are you going to partner up with an agent?

There are buyers for both... the BEST thing to look at is what is the NORM for the EXACT neighborhood you are looking in... NOT just the area but the specific neighborhood... you are usually better off being in the majority for the neighborhood... that being, beds, baths, fireplaces, style... anything...

Good luck

If the square footage and quality is the same, it comes down to whatever the buyer prefers. Some people don't want steps, others don't mind. The both are pretty equal in the Cincinnati Market.

Hi Curt,

In my opinion, I believe you should consider the neighborhood. If the neighborhood is primarily 2 story homes, then the 2 story home is more likely to attract your greatest number of buyers at resale. If primarily the homes are ranch, then a ranch is more likely to attract your greatest numbers of buyers at resale.

In general though, a 2 story home is easier to sell than a ranch because it's the typical sell in our area. If I were making a purchase and resale were my concern, I'd lean toward a 2 story with basement, but if my plan is to make this my home for long time, I'd buy what I want and for me that means I leand toward a ranch with basement.

Good luck with your search for a home and don't hesitate to call or e-mail if you need help,

Ken Ferguson

There are buyers for both type homes so I am not sure there is a "right" answer. More important than the style of the home is the condition, price and choosing a good sellers agent. At least as far as the items you can control. A good article on choosing a good sellers agent is in the web reference below. I also have information on staging and pricing.

If you'd like to discuss this more, please contact me at 513-703-6523 or Jim@JimSellsHomes.com

The ease of sale is equal here. With more information from you I could give you a better assessment. Are you asking with regard to resale in the future? Do you currently have one to sell and want information about expected time on the market prior to sale? Please contact me and let's talk. I can help with your dilemna.

Hello Curt,

I am on the West Side, but wanted to say that both Dan & Karen had great answers.

Curt, it all comes down to what the comparison sales are in a community. It differs by location. Appraisers typically look at closest radius staying in the .5 mile radius (in same neighborhood) and comparable sales in the past 6 months.

Happy House Hunting or Selling!
Sheri Mapes the Cincy House Expert
(513) 253-7156

Hi Curt,

Your question doesn't have a simple answer.

The level of interest goes beyond which sells better. Buyers have all different reasons for selecting either a ranch or a 2-story, ie. has bad knees - need a ranch or has a growing family - needs a 4 bedrm 2-story.

If you're trying to determine which style of home is better for resale in the future, with proper pricing and being in above average condition, you should be ok with either style.

If you're looking at a new(er) subdivision, where pricing is pretty comparable, keep an eye out for what home sale prices are doing.

Curt, you asked a very detailed question. If you'd like to discuss this more by email or phone, please contact me at dan@danweis.com or (513) 615-1890.

Size and style of home never matter as much as pricing, location and ammenities. Marketing is the key in either style of home as there are qualified buyers looking for both.