When you’re in the market for a new home, one of the first things you should do—after getting your finances in order and deciding on a few choice locations—is determine the style of house you are looking for. “Often, agents meet with a client who has begun their house hunt, but really hasn’t narrowed down the type of property they are looking for,” says Mary Lynn Stone, President of Century 21 New Millennium. Stone goes on to note that many clients aren’t sure how to differentiate among the various property styles, so when they browse listings they don’t know what to keep an eye out for. Below, Stone explains a few of the most popular home styles.
Victorian. These homes are ideal for those interested in unique architecture, large porches and picturesque bay windows—all features typical of the Victorian style of home. “As they are older homes, Victorians often need a lot of work, and can vary in price greatly. While it is possible to find updated Victorians, they are generally great homes for those interested in a fixer-upper,” explains Stone.
This ranch style home may be the perfect home style for this family. Knowing the different home styles will help narrow down your property search.
Ranch. “This style of home has only one-level, with a basement and an attached garage,” explains Stone, who notes these homes are great starter properties as they are easier to maintain than a multi-level home.
Bi-Level. Also known as a split ranch, the bi-level home rarely has a basement, as the lower level is also the entry level. Popular in the ‘50s, bi-levels usually feature a built-in garage.
Split-level. Split-levels often have a ground level living area, such as a den or family room, with the next level containing the kitchen and dining area, and bedrooms on the third floor. “These homes offer a good amount of space while maintaining a moderate size, which makes them popular,” states Stone.
Tudor. Tudors have a distinctive look, usually involving wood trim, slate roofs, stucco and an interesting combination of angles. They are unique and spacious, generally including a built-in garage. “Like the Victorians, Tudors vary in price and maintenance needs as they are older homes, popular in the 1800s and ‘20s,” notes Stone.
Colonial. “Colonials are classic in both appearance and structure—they are generally well built, spacious and elegant,” says Stone. Many have a traditional layout, including kitchen and living spaces—often with a formal dining room and living room—on the main floor, and bedrooms and bathrooms on a second floor. “Colonials frequently have attached porches, as well as basements and attics, making them desirable properties,” Stone explains.
Contemporary. This style of home is becoming more in demand in developed areas, or places with an abundance of vacation properties. “Contemporary properties are extremely customizable, and usually have resort-style features such as cathedral ceilings, multiple decks or unique window units,” notes Stone. They are casual, yet luxurious, which makes them a great choice for a second home.
For more information on popular home styles, please contact Century 21 New Millennium at move@c21nm.com, 800-382-1101, or Century 21 New Millennium.
CENTURY 21 New Millennium. Smarter. Bolder. Faster.
CENTURY 21 New Millennium, www.c21nm.com, is a full service real estate brokerage company specializing in residential and luxury properties. The Virginia locations are in Alexandria, Centreville, Culpeper, Fredericksburg, Gainesville, McLean, Stafford, and Woodbridge. The Maryland offices are located in Annapolis, Dunkirk, La Plata, Lexington Park and Lusby. Its core services include: mortgage financing, investing, settlement services, property management, property insurance, global relocation assistance, and commercial real estate.