The Enduring Appeal of the Ranch House
By Krasi Henkel
Ranch-style homes have been a popular choice for decades thanks to their practical single-story layouts and flexible spaces. While some home buyers may overlook older ranch houses in favor of newer construction, these modest homes actually offer great opportunities. With some creativity and wise investments, you can remodel a ranch house on a budget.
The Benefits of Buying an Older Ranch:
- Mail level primary bedroom(s)
- Mature trees and landscaping
- Established neighborhoods
- Lower property taxes
- Good value per square foot
- Flexible floor plans
- Hardwood floors or solid mid-century materials
The Blank Canvas:
The simple shapes of ranch homes make them perfect blank canvases to incorporate modern style. Minor changes can make ranch homes feel fresh and new without blowing the budget. Consider these economical updates:
- New paint in contemporary hues
- Swap dated lighting for streamlined fixtures
- Replace builder-basic kitchens and baths with IKEA systems
- Refinish hardwood flooring hidden under outdated carpeting
- Knock down walls to create open-concept spaces
- Add an addition
The above photos were a joint project with Anders Hurd – Faber Custom Builders, Inc. The project was incredibly successful and the property sold to the first buyer ho saw it!!
Big Style for Small Budgets
You don’t need expensive materials to give a ranch home an interior facelift. Use these design insider tips:
- Shop for unique vintage details
- Use bold wallpaper or paint instead of new cabinets
- Stain concrete floors for an industrial look
- Upgrade windows and patio doors even if you keep other structural elements
The single-level living and unused basement or attics in ranch homes present opportunities for expansion or converting unused areas into rental units for extra income.
Take a fresh look at older ranch houses. With an updated exterior paint color, strategic refreshes indoors, and your own custom vision, you can personalize a home to suit your needs and style for less than you might expect. The charm and practicality of ranch homes continue to win over buyers who see their outstanding potential.