Bungalows have been a crucial form of housing across North America for well over a hundred years. It’s a style of building that has risen and waned in popularity several times, but always provided a sensible, quality standard of living. It’s an enduring architectural style that’s always in demand. For many, it’s an type of housing that’s practically synonymous with suburban life.
The classic bungalow has lasted as a popular form of housing for a variety of reasons. It provides:
- Accessibility
- Flexibility
- Low maintenance and upkeep costs
- Large lot sizes
- Great investment potential
A Short History of the Bungalow
The Craftsman-style bungalow emerged in California in the early 20th century and came to Canada by the 1910s. It was one of the most popular styles of architecture until the Great Depression in part thanks to Craftsman Magazine.
Since then, several new styles beyond Craftsman have emerged, including Modern, Tudor Revival, and Prairie Style bungalows. The style was defined by its low-pitched roofs and being one to one-and-a-half storeys in height. In real estate today, the term bungalow is sometimes applied to any one-storey home.
Is It a Good Idea to Invest in a Bungalow?
Bungalows are a great investment, especially for empty nesters and soon-to-be-retirees. Whereas families may find more privacy out of a two-storey, our spacious townhomes provide an abundance of both indoor and outdoor space. Below are just some of the reasons it’s a great idea to invest in a bungalow for your next home.
#1 Accessibility
One of the top benefits of a one-storey home is the lack of stairs. When you’re looking for your dream home in retirement, accessibility should be near the top of your list of priorities. The last thing you want is to have to move again because of reduced mobility. Keeping everything on one floor is a way to future-proof your living situation.
#2 Flexibility
Bungalows are often associated with a certain mid-century floor plan. If you’re buying an older home, that will likely remain true (although you can always renovate). Bungalows are remarkably flexible when it comes to redesigning them. But you won’t have to with bungalow townhomes from Blythwood Homes. Our homes use a contemporary floor plan with more open space, more room to entertain, and great outdoor space for entertaining or enjoying the sun.
You also have the option of a finished basement in our homes, which can significantly increase livable square feet. Finished basement plans include a sitting room, bedroom, and 3-piece bathroom. A finished basement is perfect for anyone who plans on having family or friends over to spend the night.
#3 Maintenance and Upkeep
Our bungalows at The Vintages at Four Mile Creek and The Oaks at Six Mile Creek offer a few qualities that make maintenance and upkeep easy. Quality construction in a new build means that you’re not going to have to spend much on maintenance for years to come. New appliances and HVAC will last longer. As an Energy Star Certified Builder, we use Energy Star appliances. Energy Star reduces your energy consumption and saves you on your bills every month.
If you’re looking for a lifestyle where you don’t have to worry about snow removal or lawn maintenance, our bungalow townhome communities give you peace of mind and freedom from all those outdoor chores. The Corporation handles outdoor maintenance, so you don’t have to worry about mowing the lawn or shovelling snow. It’s a perfect arrangement for snow birds and frequent travellers, or anyone who doesn’t want to have to do the heavy lifting when it comes to maintenance.
#4 Outdoor Space
The lots in our communities are spacious and provide plenty of outdoor space. Enjoy a private garden area, covered terrace, or a beautiful sunroom. You have options to choose from with the variety of floor plans available in great communities.
Our bungalow townhomes get plenty of private outdoor space as well. Garden walls make sure you get enjoy privacy while you enjoy an afternoon in the sun or entertain guests.
#5 Investment Potential
As far as architectural styles go, the bungalow is a sound choice for an enduring investment. It’s been popular for over a century and isn’t likely to go out of style anytime soon. There is always a reliable demand for bungalow housing.
Why Move into a Bungalow in Niagara?
Blythwood Homes builds active lifestyle communities in Niagara because it’s a great place to live. The Niagara Peninsula has it all:
- Incredible natural features and outdoor activities including Niagara Falls, bicycle trails, golf courses, the Escarpment, and more.
- Proximity to great food, not just in the local dining scene but at farms, markets, and vineyards where it’s grown and made.
- Arts and culture at your door step thanks to great theatre, music, and festivals all year round.
- Quick and easy access to the QEW ensuring you’re close to the Greater Toronto Area.
Charm and craftsmanship are the hallmarks of the bungalow style, and Blythwood Homes goes to great lengths to ensure that each of its homes provides just that. Our homes offer superior craftsmanship, upscale finishes, excellence in design, and interior customization. Enjoy simplistic living in an amenity-rich, master planned community that will preserve the aesthetics and value of the neighbourhood.
Your dream home should be special, but also predictable. You want to know what kind of neighbourhood you’ll be living in years from now, and that your home was built with the quality materials and construction techniques to make sure it endures. Whether you invest in a detached bungalow or bungalow townhome, you’re investing in excellent design and a community where you’ll feel right at home. Discover the magic of Niagara on the Lake and enjoy the comforts and quality of a bungalow home.
See what homes are available and open for viewing. You can also take a virtual tour of some of our homes. Get in touch if you’re thinking about making a move.