Benefits of Living in a Bungalow: Why Guelph is the Perfect Place to Call Home

Understanding Bungalows and Why They’re Appealing

What exactly is a bungalow, and why are people choosing them over larger properties? This unique architectural style focuses on smaller, open floor plans with only one level. 

There are plenty of benefits to opting for a bungalow, but before we explore them, let’s explore more about bungalows.

What is a Bungalow?

The overall concept for bungalows came from the Bengal region during the British colonial occupation of the region. In the early 20th century, this type of home started becoming popular in North America.

We’ve discussed how they’re single-level and have open floor plans, but what else differentiates them from other types of properties? 

Bungalow-style homes are ground-level detached structures that often have front porches with an overhang, sloped roofs, and intentionally have reduced square footage. They also lack an attached garage, although you may find some properties that have them.

A bungalow isn’t just a smaller house but a unique aesthetic that people immediately recognize, even if they don’t know the term. People considering bungalows for sale in Guelph like this architectural style and the benefits it brings.

Common Types of Bungalows

“Bungalow” is an overarching style, and several types of bungalows have been developed over the years. A few of the common subcategories you might encounter are:

• Craftsman: A craftsman bungalow emphasizes low overhang roofs and decorative rafters on full display. The street-facing view might feature square columns, simple accents, and decorative windows. While not mandatory, they’re often painted green, brown, or tan to blend with natural surroundings.
• California: The California bungalow is similar to the craftsman bungalow, with exposed rafters and a low overhang, but the difference is the materials used throughout the property. California bungalows are often made of stucco or wood planks, giving it a unique look compared to other types.
• Modern: While the overall concept remains the same, modern bungalows introduce circular columns and softer curved features rather than prioritizing sharp angles. You’ll often also see an arched window over the entryway alongside modern colour schemes throughout the property.

There are other types of bungalows to consider, but you can see what factors and attributes differentiate them from each other. Guelph can have a wide range of bungalows spanning several different types, so browse available inventory and see which styles are the most appealing.

Top Benefits of Living in a Bungalow

Bungalows turn their back on the “more is better” approach to square footage and floors that’s often embraced by other single-family homes. This core difference might rule out bungalows for many home buyers, but for others, it can be intriguing and appealing. 

So, we’ll be diving into the top benefits of living in a bungalow to consider if this type of home is appealing — is a bungalow the right choice for you?

Single-Level Living

Living without a second floor keeps everything readily available, rather than separating belongings and people. You’ll also remove the risks that accompany stairs, which can be important for families with young children or seniors.

Only having one floor is also highly accessible for anyone with mobility issues. A second floor makes much of the property off-limits for those with mobility issues, while a single floor creates easier access to the entire home.

Open Floor Plans

Bungalows focus on open floor plans rather than several separate rooms. There will still be bedrooms, but the rest of the home promotes family interactions and is ready to entertain guests.

For parents, open floor plans have the added utility of making it easier to stay aware of what the kids are up to. For example, cooking dinner doesn’t mean being unable to keep an eye on kids playing in the living room.

Maintenance and Upkeep

The smaller size and single floor means there are fewer things to repair, upkeep, and maintain. The lack of a second floor means tasks like cleaning the gutter or repairing roof damage are closer to the ground, making them less hazardous,

Additionally, you’ll consume less energy to keep your home comfortable during the hot summers and cold winters, an eco-friendly benefit that also cuts your monthly bills. Bungalows for sale in Guelph offer a unique opportunity for those looking for either savings or improved sustainability.

Privacy and Tranquility

Every bungalow and its area will vary, but because of the smaller size, there’s more opportunity for added privacy and tranquillity when compared to larger homes on the same lot. Bungalows share the same zoning as other single-family homes, which means they’re often built on the same sized lots as more traditional homes.

As a result, there’s more room for fencing, shrubbery or trees to create a serene outdoor environment that also increases privacy for the interior. Of course, this isn’t a universal benefit, but one that might be available, or you might have the opportunity to create it.

Quality of Life

All of the benefits we’re exploring add up to a higher quality of life, depending on your preferences. Those who prefer more opportunities for family togetherness, greater privacy, and eco-friendly living might simply enjoy life more in a bungalow.

If you prefer large properties, you can still have a high quality of life. But for those who want to minimize and possibly slow down, bungalows can substantially increase overall quality of life, especially if you choose the right neighbourhood that gives you the right blend of outdoor activities and urban amenities.

Beautiful Neighbourhoods in Guelph

Guelph neighbourhoods vary dramatically, giving the city a unique flavour that isn’t easily found elsewhere. Every neighbourhood might have a different appeal, but they all strive to maintain a sense of community culture and the area’s natural beauty. 

Depending on available inventory, bungalows can be found in most neighbourhoods, allowing you to start your search based on your ideal area. 

For example, Downtown Guelph offers a rich cultural and culinary experience. In contrast, St. George’s Park offers a wooded suburban environment, and Riverside Park lets you experience aquatic wildlife and activities — and that’s just a few examples.

Take your time to decide on the right neighbourhood, or a few of them, to begin your bungalow search. 

Strong Real Estate Market

The real estate market in Guelph can be a buyer’s or seller’s market, just like other regions. Still, unlike others, the balance between available inventory and willing buyers helps create a level of stability that makes finding the perfect home feasible for many prospective buyers.

Not only will you have a solid chance of finding a bungalow, but you’ll likely be able to find a grateful buyer if you decide to move. The combination of culture, nature, and community keeps drawing in new residents and is unlikely to stop anytime soon. 

Proximity to Nature and Urban Amenities

While the balance of nature and urban amenities will vary based on the neighbourhood you choose, you’ll still benefit from this mix of the natural and modern world. Bungalows can be found in both settings as they take up less space, making them a great fit in a downtown or a woodland neighbourhood.

Consider the Unique Aesthetic and Lifestyle of Bungalow Living

Bungalows have a lot to offer for the right type of home buyers. While it’s understandable that not everyone will want this smaller property type, they can be a perfect fit for those looking to enjoy all the benefits we’ve explored above.

You’ll spend less on maintenance, heating and cooling and be ready to pursue a more peaceful way of life. 

Seeing a bungalow in person can often help make up your decision, even if you don’t make an offer on the first one. Are you considering bungalows in Guelph? Browse our listings or contact us today, and we’ll help you find the perfect home.