When considering home styles in San Antonio, the debate between one-story and two-story homes is a common one. While both styles have their unique appeal, market trends often show which one has a competitive edge when it comes to selling speed. Here’s a breakdown of the factors influencing the popularity and sales velocity of these two styles in the Alamo City.
Buyer Demographics
San Antonio’s real estate market caters to a diverse population, from young families and professionals to retirees. The buyer demographic significantly impacts the demand for home styles:
- One-Story Homes: These are especially popular among older buyers or those looking to age in place. The lack of stairs is attractive to retirees and those with mobility concerns. First-time homebuyers and small families also appreciate the convenience of single-level living, making these homes a hit with younger buyers.
- Two-Story Homes: These homes typically appeal to larger families or buyers looking for more square footage at a lower price per square foot. They offer greater separation between living and sleeping areas, which can be a big draw for families with children. Additionally, two-story homes often have more backyard space, making them appealing for those who prioritize outdoor living.
San Antonio’s Suburban Expansion
San Antonio’s real estate market is expanding rapidly, particularly in suburban areas like West San Antonio, Cibolo, and Helotes. In these growing neighborhoods, two-story homes are quite common due to the larger lot sizes and newer construction. However, single-story homes remain highly sought after in older, established neighborhoods like Alamo Heights and Stone Oak.
Price and Affordability
- Two-Story Homes: Typically offer more space for the money, making them attractive to buyers on a budget. However, they can take longer to sell when compared to single-story homes in certain markets, particularly when catering to a buyer demographic that prefers convenience over space.
- One-Story Homes: While one-story homes may be slightly more expensive per square foot, they often sell faster due to their broad appeal, especially in areas with a high demand for retirement-friendly homes.
Energy Efficiency and Maintenance
- One-Story Homes: These are often seen as more energy-efficient, as it’s easier to heat and cool a single level. Maintenance is also easier, as homeowners don’t have to worry about stairs or maintaining two separate floors.
- Two-Story Homes: While offering more space, two-story homes can be more expensive to cool during San Antonio’s hot summers, which can be a downside for energy-conscious buyers.
Resale Value and Time on Market
Historically, one-story homes tend to sell faster than two-story homes in San Antonio, particularly in neighborhoods with older or retired populations. According to local realtors, including Raul Jimenez, single-story homes generally sell quicker because they appeal to a wider range of buyers, including those seeking accessibility, convenience, and lower maintenance. They also tend to retain their value more consistently, especially in central and high-demand areas.
However, two-story homes still attract buyers who prioritize space. The cost per square foot is typically lower. The footprint is smaller providing more outdoor living for young families to enjoy or space for a pool. While they may not sell as quickly as single-story homes in some markets, two-story homes can still move fast if priced correctly and located in family-oriented neighborhoods with good schools.