In a world of towering new-build flats and sprawling three-storey townhouses, there’s something refreshingly honest about a bungalow. No stairs. No split-level gimmicks. Just a simple, single-storey home that offers practicality, privacy – and increasingly – prestige.
Ten years ago, most house hunters wouldn’t have put a bungalow near the top of their wish list. Fast forward to today, and it’s a very different story. Demand is outstripping supply, prices are rising faster than many other property types, and in some parts of the country, bungalows are even sparking bidding wars. Here in Lancaster, we’re seeing exactly the same trend.
So why the renewed love affair? And what should both buyers and sellers know about these deceptively simple homes?
The Underdog of British Housing
Bungalows have long been underestimated. Some see them as a choice for the elderly, a leftover from the post-war building boom, or a stopgap until something “better” comes along.
But this overlooks their real value. Many sit on generous plots with wide gardens, driveways, and bags of potential. While modern semis and terraces are squeezed into tighter plots, bungalows often have room to extend outwards, upwards, or simply modernise. They’re a dream for those who love space – and for developers who can spot their potential.
Why Buyers Love Them
Retirees aren’t the only ones driving demand. We’re seeing increasing interest from people in their 40s and 50s, those with mobility considerations, and even families. Here’s why:
- Single-level living – No stairs might sound like a small thing, but the ease of living on one level is a real game changer.
- Future-proofing – Buyers are thinking long-term, choosing a home they can grow old in without the hassle of moving again.
- Space to extend – Many Lancaster bungalows sit on plots far bigger than today’s new builds, opening the door to rear extensions, loft conversions or complete redevelopment (subject to planning).
- Peace and privacy – No one above or below means a quieter lifestyle – something many value more after lockdown.
- Scarcity – With so few built today, bungalows are a limited commodity. When supply is short, demand tends to rise.
Lancaster’s Bungalow Market – The Numbers
Over the last two years, 270 bungalows have been listed for sale in Lancaster – around 6.7% of all new property listings. Nationally, that figure is slightly higher at 7.9%, but either way, they’re still a small slice of the market.
In that same period, 178 bungalows here sold and completed, with an average price of £288,544 (£301 per square foot). Compare that to the 1,845 houses and flats sold locally at an average of £263,850 (£241 per square foot), and the picture is clear – bungalows here command a premium.
They also sell more reliably. In Lancaster, 67.7% of bungalows that came off the market sold and completed, compared to 60.9% for houses and 58.7% for flats. Nationally, the difference is even starker – only 46.3% of flats sell and complete.
Advice for Lancaster Bungalow Sellers
If you own a bungalow in a sought-after spot and have thought about moving, now could be the perfect time for a conversation.
We know that some sellers worry about finding their next home before selling. That’s why at JDG we offer an ‘off market’ service – discreetly finding you a buyer without a For Sale board, then agreeing a timescale that works entirely around you. You can take months to find your new home, and if you change your mind before the legal work begins, there’s no cost.
Pricing, though, is key. Too high, and you risk scaring away serious buyers. Too low, and you may attract developers who value the plot more than the home. The right agent will know how to position your property to appeal to the right audience – whether that’s a downsizer, a young family, or someone planning their forever home.
Final Thoughts
The British love affair with bungalows is being rekindled – and in Lancaster, it never truly went away. They’re practical, adaptable, and highly desirable. We may not be building many (last year, just 1.88% of all new homes were bungalows), but demand is only going one way.
If you’re curious about what your Lancaster bungalow could be worth – whether you’re thinking of moving soon or just planning for the future – we’d be happy to share our insight. Sometimes, the most timeless homes are the ones that have been here all along. You can call me on 01524 843322 or email me at michelle@jdg.co.uk
Thanks for reading
Michelle