Is buying a ranch home with a basement a good idea? I think so. However, there are additional factors that need to be considered, like condition, layout, location, size, price, etc.

As realtors, we are not allowed to market property based on any of the protected classes--and familial status is a protected class, so we need to use caution when we put together our advertising. Still, even though we can't market this way, it's good for you as a buyer to know that a ranch home offers a broad appeal across all age groups--many young people with small children appreciate not having to chase them up and down stairs, and our aging population usually appreciates not having to contend with stairs on a regular basis. Having the basement offers the option of additional storage without necessarily having to walk up and down the stairs every day.

Look further at the specifics of the property, though. You wouldn't want to lose that broad-appeal advantage by choosing a ranch home that had a difficult lot (too sloped) or located in a high-crime area. If an older person appreciates the fact that there aren't many steps to deal with, the thought of having to chase a lawn mower up or down a dangerous slope would likely be a turnoff. And no one wants to worry about the family's safety if crime is a known problem in the area.

Above all, do the fair value market research based on the particular property that interests you. What are similar properties selling for, and look at that data based on the MOST RECENT activity you can find.

Good luck to you.