Typically designed with a long, single-story, open plan, ranch homes became widely popular in the ‘60s. In fact, in 1973 alone, this style made up 67% of new home construction, according to Market Watch. Now that Boomers are in search of more comfortable home designs, ranch homes are once again taking the spotlight.

Thanks to the stairs-free setup of a typical ranch home, elderly folk and people with long term disabilities can worry less about using wheelchairs, walkers and other mobility devices when trying to access different areas of their home. Interestingly, many couples starting a family are beginning to see the kid-friendly value that ranch homes provide.

Other than the added safety value, ranch homes offer three other distinct functional advantages:

• Maximized land use. Multi-story homes generally stand on smaller foundations. Ranch-style homes, on the other hand, utilize the land they occupy more efficiently. The builder can spread the home throughout the lot, which means less space is wasted. Moreover, by reducing the yard space used, ranch designs make landscape maintenance more manageable.

• Less of the unnecessary. Ranch homes are for homeowners who desire something practical home design. The sheer variety of sizes means buyers have the option to go for a smaller home. Prospective homeowners can purchase only what’s needed and avoid or get rid of things that needlessly take up both space and money. With less clutter around, it is easier to keep a clean and orderly, not to mention spacious, home.

• Everything on one floor.Colonial style homes can come with an open floor plan, but multiple partitions will always be involved. In a ranch-style home, on the other hand, you can weave in and out of your dining room, kitchen, and living space with utmost ease. With major rooms all in a single area, social gatherings feel every bit as open and relaxed since no one is isolated in another room.

In addition, reputable builders such as David James Custom Homes can make ranch homes fully compatible with today’s lifestyle needs. With their multiple advantages, ranch homes are certainly worth considering for those who intend to age in place, adult children who wish to care for their aging parents at home, or anyone who is thinking of raising a family soon.For more about ranch style homes and their advantages, check out MarketWatch.com and SafetyMom.com