What are your thoughts on bi-level/tri-level houses.

PinkPiano

I've never been a huge fan (judging by the few I've been in) just because the rooms were small and there were lots of stairs.  Sometimes I think the exterior is kind of odd looking as well.  So anyhow, we're going to do a drive-by today of house with a good location/nice property but it's a bi-level.  There were only a few pics online of the interior so I can't judge yet.  Dh likes it and isn't bothered by the bi-level factor.  My dream house would have a big front porch and I don't know if it would even be possible to add one.

Any pros/cons/experiences?

Thanks!

MelandJeff

Typically, you get a bit more wasted space on a bi level... and depending on if it is a split entry or not (those I really dont like) but tri's and quads are good.

What I do like about tri's and quads are that they feel much more open...I used to own a quad and I LOVED it.

amiamish

My parents have a tri-level house, I love it! We have a split-foyer type bi-level house, and I hate it. I hate how small the entry way is and that the stairs are RIGHT there when you open the door. We'll never buy a split-foyer like this again.

skippy2310

We just moved and while looking, I said no split foyers/bi-levels/tri-levels, etc. I'm just not a fan of them for some reason and I think they are hard to re-sell. I think it's a personal choice whether you like them or not and the neighborhood, price, etc would definately factor into my decision.

 

firefightersgal

I like them.  DHe's grandparents have a 4-level home and it is really nice.  The only problem is that the bedrooms are really small.  However, I've been in a lot of them that had decent-sized bedrooms.

ETA: The examples I'm thinking of do not have the split entry.  I don't like those. 

ccm1203

bi-level as in raised ranch?  I guess it is split entry, I don't like those at all.  Tri-level I like.