Why Are Split-Level Homes Harder to Sell?

Marketing a split-level house can be a difficult task due to its unique design and outdated feel. If a homeowner knows how to maximize their split-level’s potential, however, they can make it an affordable and desirable home for buyers. Find out what it takes to quickly and easily sell a split-level home.

What Is a Split-Level House?

Split-level homes, also known as bi-level houses, are an excellent option for multigenerational families due to the addition of multiple floors connected by a set of stairs. These homes typically feature large living spaces, attics, integrated garages, low-pitched roofs, and double-hung windows. Not only do they provide extra living areas, but they also offer the potential to rent out the extra rooms and generate a passive income or provide a place for a friend or family member to stay. The division of the floors helps ensure a peaceful environment.

Split-Level Houses Were Popular Decades Ago

Split-level homes saw a surge in their prevalence in the 1950s, when they emerged in American suburbs, and attained their maximum fame in the 1960s before being surpassed by other types of homes. These homes were highly sought after due to the advantages they offered, such as…

• More Home and Yard Space for the Money: Split-level homes were an ideal choice for larger families in the past, as they provided plenty of interior space without sacrificing a large backyard. This enabled family members to have their own rooms, while still having plenty of outdoor space to enjoy. As a result, split-level homes became an increasingly popular option.
• More Privacy: Split-level houses are great for those who require their own space. The separate rooms make it easy to stay undisturbed while sleeping or working from home. For those looking to rent out some of their space, it helps to clearly define the boundary between tenant and landlord.
• Affordability: Split-level homes are an ideal choice for starting a family due to their cost-effectiveness compared to other larger homes. The extra space is beneficial for a growing family, and the cost savings can be put towards unexpected costs or future planning.
• Multigenerational Living: Split-level homes offer the opportunity to live with multiple generations, such as an elderly parent requiring care, while still having the option to rent out extra space and generate a source of income without sacrificing privacy.

Split-level houses have become less trendy since the 1960s, but they may still provide certain advantages to families. If you own a split-level residence and are thinking of selling it, there are still options available.

Why Don’t Split-Level Homes Sell as Quickly?

Getting rid of a property in a crowded market atmosphere can be difficult, but split-level dwellings generally take more time to move than other kinds of residences. There are multiple explanations why split-level homes are tough to sell, such as:

• Extra staircases: Split-level homes can be cramped and can require a lot of stair climbing to move between floors, which is not attractive to many potential homebuyers who prefer more spacious designs with greater ease of movement.
• Undesirable Floor Plans: Split-level homes can be difficult to navigate for people with limited mobility or those with physical disabilities, making them an unappealing choice for individuals such as seniors, young children, or others who may have difficulty navigating the space.
• Hard to Renovate: When selling a split-level home, it may be difficult to find potential buyers who are unbothered by the predetermined layout, as it can be challenging to renovate the home and make it one’s own. This can be off-putting to those who wish to add value to the property by putting their own personal touch on it. The layout of a split-level home usually consists of the kitchen and entertaining area on the bottom floor and the bedrooms on the upper floor, leaving little room to make drastic changes without completely renovating the home.
• Low Natural Light: Split-level homes often have an unattractive, disconnected design that makes it difficult to let in sunlight. This problem is made worse when the home has minimal windows, or none in common rooms. Because of this, people looking for a home with an open floor plan and plenty of natural light are not usually interested in split-level homes.
• No Curb Appeal: Split-level homes have an outdated aesthetic that can be off-putting to potential homebuyers, even if it is in good condition. People tend to prefer more modern homes and may not bother to investigate a split-level house further.

How To Sell My Split Level Home Fast

If you’re having difficulty selling your split-level house, there are steps you can take to make it more attractive to prospective purchasers. Here are some strategies to help you increase the allure of your split-level house and draw in buyers.

• Show Off Your Home’s Strengths: When considering a split-level home, there are advantages to be aware of. One advantage is that the layout of the house provides more privacy for individuals living in the same residence. The space allows for more peaceful living for those who want to stay separate from the other people in the home. When marketing the property, make sure to highlight all the advantages of a split-level home.
• Make Minor Upgrades: You can increase the value of your residence for prospective purchasers by doing a few renovations or modifications. Adding extra windows is one way to increase the modernity of the home, as well as providing natural illumination. Setting up the space in a way that is visually attractive and captivating can show potential buyers the possibilities of renovating and allow them to put their own spin on the property after purchase.
  It takes time, energy, and often is not successful in the current market to prepare and market a home for sale. If you are wanting to sell your property quickly, you may want to think about selling it to an expert home buyer. These firms will purchase your house in its current state, so you don’t have to stress about improvements or repairs.
  The value of your home will be judged by a professional and they will offer you a price. If you agree, the sale can be finalized quickly, usually within a week, so you can move out when you are ready. Going through an experienced homebuyer can help you avoid spending money on remodeling and home staging.

Sell Your Split-Level House As-Is Today!

If you’re looking to quickly move out of your split-level property, MyHouseIntoCash is here to help. Our extensive real estate experience allows us to recognize the potential in any home, and we’ll do all the hard work for you. We can provide you with a fair offer for your home on the spot, and if you agree, we can close the deal in as little as one week. To get started, schedule a walkthrough or contact us today.