The variety between 1,001 and 1,500 square foot homes ranges from quaint cottages to practical, yet contemporary starter homes. This might seem like a small footprint to some people, but simply because the square footage isn’t as high as some of the other homes doesn’t mean you’re limited with design choices. When working with 1,500 sq ft house plans, you can get creative with the layout to maximize the space and create a sense of togetherness in the home.
In fact, many people prefer smaller, 1,500 square foot house plans for several reasons: the mortgage and insurance are typically lower, the other utilities are cheaper, it takes less to furnish the home, and there’s not as much time spent on the upkeep of the space. It’s a “less is more” aesthetic that adds nothing but beauty to the home.
Another benefit to homes less than 1,500 square feet is that they are much easier, faster, and cheaper to renovate. If you decide you would like to make over a bathroom, this project may only take a day or weekend, as opposed to weeks in a larger, older home.
Is a 1,500 sq. ft. house small?
No, this size home is typically considered “midsize.” A 1,500 square foot house plan is a great fit for small families or couples planning to start a family.
How many bedrooms can a 1,500 square feet house have?
The typical 1,500 sq. ft. floor plans have two to three bedrooms in the layout. The benefit of choosing your own home plan is deciding what size you would like each room to be. There is a wide variety of bedroom layouts available on plans for homes that are this size.
What are the most popular 1,500 sq. ft. house plans?
Some of the most popular floor plans for 1,500 square foot homes are craftsman, modern farmhouse, and ranch. These styles are all classic and timeless and will evolve with your tastes.
Is 1,500 square feet big enough for a family of 4?
Yes. Most 1,500 square foot floor plans include options for three-bedroom layouts, giving you plenty of space for a family of four. You could even add a couple of pets and still have enough space!
How much would it cost to build a 1,500 square foot home?
It costs between $150,000 to $300,000+ to build a home this size. Why the broad price range? There is a wide array of variables that go into building a home. The design is just one part of the cost. Labor, materials, location, and seasonality all play a part in the cost of building a house from the ground up.
To learn more about our 1,500 square foot home plans and how our experts can help you design the home of your dreams, contact America’s Best House Plans today.
There are so many benefits to these smaller houses, and they deserve to become more popular than they already are. Once you see what they can do, you'll want one of your own, too.
Benefit #1. Less Space to Fill
When you're living in a 1500 sq ft house, you don't have to worry about filling up all that space with furniture. This means less money spent on furnishings, and you can use that money elsewhere.
With less space for your house design, you’ll have more yard to work with. With that extra room, you can plant flowers, put in a garden, or simply enjoy the view from your back porch or patio.
Benefit #2. Cheaper and Easier to Maintain
The lower price and decreased maintenance are two major reasons that people choose to downsize their homes—they save money and don't have to worry about all the maintenance. A 1500 sq ft house plan is cheaper to build and maintain than a larger one.
When the time comes to replace the roof, paint the walls, or re-carpet the first floor, the lower square footage will mean thousands of dollars in savings compared to the same job done in a larger home. So, small house plans are the best value.
Benefit #3. Fits on Smaller Lots
Smaller homes take up less room on a lot, meaning you can get more for your money when you're looking to buy. If you're not interested in a large lot, then a small house is perfect for you. If your house plan includes a basement bonus room, you can build even more on a small lot without expanding the size of the structure.
The smaller size is a big plus in areas where land is sold at a premium. It also means you have more flexibility to build your dream home on a small urban lot, narrow lot, or a topographically-rugged plot.
Benefit #4. Faster to Build and Prepare for Move-In
There are many reasons why smaller houses are easier to build. They don't require as many pricey materials, the plans themselves tend to be simpler, and builders can complete the exact same plan faster than a larger home plan.
All this means is that you'll only have to wait a few months before you're ready to move in. If you're a real estate developer, this could be the key to getting more houses onto the market in a shorter time frame.
Benefit #5. Easier to Sell
The numbers are in—bigger homes take longer to sell: They often require more money down and are harder to finance.
1500 sq ft homes, on the other hand, are much easier to sell. They're less expensive, quick to move into, and easier to finance. These traits make them ripe for flipping or renting out—just be careful to keep in mind any city ordinances or state laws that might apply.
Benefit #6. Accommodates Outdoor Living Spaces
When you have a smaller home, you have more opportunities to use your outdoor space effectively. A covered porch, a backyard patio, or even a rooftop deck can give you the extra living space you need without taking up any indoor square footage.
If you live on a more considerable lot, you may even have enough room for a second structure, such as a garage, a guesthouse, or an outdoor kitchen.
Popular Features for 1500 sq ft Homes
Now that you know all the benefits of choosing a 1500 sq ft house plan, let's take a look at some of the most popular features people are adding to their homes.
Open Floor Plans
The days of the small, cramped home are gone: An open floor plan makes your space feel larger and more inviting. And, it’s a great way to have a large kitchen in a smaller home.
An open floor plan is perfect for social gatherings, since you can easily converse with guests – even if they’re in a different room. And, open concept plans maximize every square foot while still giving your home that airy and spacious feel.
High Ceilings
A high ceiling gives the illusion of more space and a loft-like orientation.
A taller home maximizes smaller square footage and makes your home feel airier and more spacious. High ceilings are especially useful if you’re tall, since you won’t have to duck when you walk from room to room.
Lots of Windows
Natural light is the best way to make your home feel bigger, no matter how small it is.
More windows, or even one large window, will add plenty of natural light, so a 1500 sq ft home plan with large windows will feel bigger and brighter – and you’ll save money on your electric bill by using sunlight.
Main Floor Master Bedrooms
With the master bedroom on the main floor, you don't have to worry about stairs.
This is especially helpful if you're older, have mobility issues, or have a young child that sleeps with you. Single-floor house plans are also cheaper to build.
Conclusion
With so many benefits, 1500 sq ft homes are becoming more popular. And, there are so many ways to maximize your smaller space. Open floor plans give you the freedom to design your own home layout, while high ceilings and lots of windows brighten up any room.
Monster House Plans has pre-drawn house plans that are just the right size to meet your needs. We have plans in various house styles, from modern farmhouse plans to rustic mountain cottages.
Get seasoned technical assistance from an experienced professional today, and enjoy a low price guarantee on our cost-to-build estimates.
Ask an architect about our pre-drawn house plans, and you'll be living in your dream home before you know it.