Ranch-style homes are a new fan favorite among the people. Around 19% of people are more into the ranch home rather than normal boring home. But what’s so special about it? Well maybe, Its simple design and one-story home catch people’s eyes the most. And the open living space allows the kids to play around freely. You don’t need a playground if you decide to move into a ranch home.
But wait; there are more benefits to living in a Ranch style home. What’s that? Let’s find out.
What Is Ranch Homes?
A ranch home is a single-story house with a long, low profile, typically featuring an open floor plan and a simple, functional design. It is also called a rambler. Originating in the U.S. in the 1920s. It became popular in the mid-20th century.
And the fun fact is,
Ranch-style homes come in different shapes not just the classic rectangle! You’ll also find L-shaped and U-shaped designs. It gives the home a more open feel. Some of the most recognizable features include wide roof eaves, sliding glass doors that lead to a backyard or patio, and an attached garage for easy access.
And while most ranch homes stick to a single-story layout, many have finished basements, adding a whole extra level of living space.
Key features:
- All main living spaces are on one level.
- The kitchen, dining, and living areas often flow into one another
- The home typically has a wide, low-slung roof.
- These allow for plenty of natural light and easy access to outdoor spaces like patios or backyards.
Benefits of Living in a Ranch Style Home
The home is not only for looks right? There are more benefits so people are so crazy about it.
Easy Accessibility
Without stairs to climb, ranch homes offer unmatched accessibility. This is particularly helpful if you’re planning for aging in place or have family members with mobility challenges.
Having everything on one level means you don’t need to worry about carrying heavy groceries or climbing stairs to the bedrooms.
Whether you’re a parent with young children or someone with mobility needs. This type of home makes day-to-day living easier and safer.
Great for Entertaining
One of the standout features of ranch houses is their ability to make entertaining a breeze. The open design makes it easy to mingle with guests from one room to the next.
Sliding glass doors are often part of the design, which allows for a seamless flow from the indoors to the outdoors.
This simplifies extending the party to the backyard, creating a large and versatile space for family gatherings, BBQs, or outdoor activities.
Lots of Natural Light
With large windows and often open spaces, ranch house are perfect for letting natural light pour in. The abundance of windows allows sunlight to flood into your home, making the space feel bright and welcoming all day.
Not only does this help lift your mood, but natural light can make a space feel bigger and more inviting. It is a great choice if you love having sun-filled rooms.
Low Maintenance
This is typically single-story, and maintenance becomes much easier than multi-story homes. But still, this is to set aside about 1% to 4% of your property value each year. This will help cover routine maintenance and any unexpected repairs that might come up. Having a buffer in your budget for peace of mind is always a good idea!
You don’t have to worry about cleaning or fixing hard-to-reach areas like upper floors or high ceilings. Plus, everything is located on one level. Managing things like repainting, window cleaning, or roof repairs is simpler.
Popular Cities For Ranch Homes
Decided that you want nothing but a ranch house? Great, but where can you find the most beautiful home? No need to run for a list. We’ve got you covered, too.
Elkhorn, WI
Elkhorn, located in southeastern Wisconsin, is a charming city that reflects the traditional values of suburban living while embracing modern conveniences. Ranch-style homes here, especially from the mid-20th century.
It has become iconic for its straightforward design and spacious yards, fitting perfectly with the city’s peaceful, family-oriented atmosphere. The one-story, open floor plans of this style were ideal during the post-World War II boom. Those homes are still standing there strongly. The homes in this area are also very affordable. You’ll be surprised to find 2-bedroom homes under $200K!
Burlington, WI
Burlington, often called the “Chocolate City” due to its sweet history in candy production, is another great spot for ranch houses. This small town near Lake Michigan offers easy access to nature, parks, and suburban living.
Many ranch homes here date back to the 1960s and 1970s, offering spacious, affordable homes with big yards and convenient access to the town’s amenities.
Kenosha, WI
Located along the shores of Lake Michigan, Kenosha blends small-town charm with urban convenience. The city’s residential areas feature a mix of older ranch homes from the 1950s and newer builds. Kenosha is known for its historic homes, large properties, and well-established neighborhoods. The affordability and easy access to Chicago make it a popular choice for those looking for a ranch-style home.
Green Bay, WI
Green Bay, home to the famous Green Bay Packers, offers a variety of ranch-style homes, particularly from the post-war era. The one-story homes with large front yards are scattered across this city.
It combines historical district charm and modern developments. With a friendly atmosphere, good schools, and access to nature, Green Bay is an excellent option for ranch-style homes.
Oshkosh, WI
Oshkosh, located on the shores of Lake Winnebago, is another Wisconsin city that embraces ranch-style living. Many homes here were built in the 1960s and 1970s, offering great opportunities for affordable one-story homes. The city’s blend of natural beauty, and small-town charm. And the thriving community makes it attractive for those seeking a peaceful, family-friendly environment.
Outro
The benefits of ranch-style homes are so many. So if you decide to buy one then These cities are the best option. Whether looking for a traditional home from the mid-century era or a more modern ranch, these cities provide excellent options for comfortable living with a touch of history.
