Which has more value a home that is built on slab or and home built with at least 3 steps up ?

Question

The slab home would have no crawl space, only 1 step up off your sidewalk to the slabbed front porch, and have a cement patio in the backyard from the back door.

The elevated home would have at least 3 steps up from sidewalk to front porch, have crawl space, and a treated wood deck coming out the back door.

Which of the two have more SELLING VALUE?

And which home would you perfer to buy/ own?

Answer 1

I live in Central FL, where most homes are on slabs. I've also lived in other foundation type housing.

The selling value isn't strictly determined by either of your suggestions. A CRAWL SPACE is virtually useless, in some respects, because any plumbing or electrical issues that are buried, still have to be dug into, in order to facilitate repair. Beyond that Crawl spaces don't allow storage under a house of any significant value, have that Open Air space to contend with as far as insulation, structural integrity, moisture, dirt, critters, etc etc etc.

I have no clue as to your desire for either, or your judgements of slab versus anything else, or even where you live, but slab would be the least expensive way to go. If you're able, why not do basement? or partial?

The deck and steps up are of little consequence, yet I sense you're looking at a resale value rather than a live in value.

There truly will not be any right or wrong answers here. It's like painting a house. We all have preferences, and opinions.

Rev. Steven

Answer 2

I'd prefer to buy the elevated home (actually, I own a home like that). Too many people in my area had problems in tropical storm Gaston a little while ago with flooded first floors, flooded basements- a couple feet of elevation can mean the difference between a little bit of mud on your foundation or having to replace the carpet, drywall, furniture, etc.

However, wood decks can be a pain- how about a flagstone patio instead?

Answer 3

its more likely that location determines house value. i live in an area that has both and there is no price difference. also each has their own qualities and problems. i live on a slab now but have lived in houses with crawl spaces. i see no difference.

Answer 4

I would prefer one with a full basement, just in case of bad storms and such. However, as to your question: I would prefer the one that was raised and has the crawlspace. At least you would be protected a little bit by a sudden flood.