Cape Cod vs. Bungalow: A Tale of Two Architectural Styles

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In Northeast Ohio, there are many Cape Cod and bungalow-style homes. Honestly, they are so similar in many ways that one often gets confused with the other. I know I’ve confused the two myself. Honestly, I’ve not seen a distinction in value between the two home styles. Though both styles prioritize charm and practicality, there are some interesting differences that, in the past, catered to different lifestyles and climates. Here’s an exploration of their key differences to help homeowners, appraisers, and architecture enthusiasts better appreciate these two iconic designs.

1. Origins and Historical Context

• Cape Cod: Originating in 17th-century New England, Cape Cod homes were inspired by English cottages. They were designed to withstand harsh winters, thanks to their steep roofs and compact layouts.

• Bungalow: Rooted in Bengal, India, and adapted by British colonialists in the 19th century, bungalows prioritize simplicity and comfort. They gained global popularity as affordable, cozy homes, particularly during the Arts and Crafts movement.

2. Architectural Features

• Cape Cod Homes:
• Symmetrical façade with a central entrance.
• Steep-pitched gabled roof for shedding snow.
• Central chimney for efficient heating.
• One or one-and-a-half stories with dormer windows on the upper level.
• Clapboard or shingle siding for a classic, coastal aesthetic.

• Bungalows:
• Single-story or occasionally one-and-a-half stories.
• Low-pitched roofs with wide eaves.
• Spacious front porches or verandas.
• Open layouts emphasizing connected living spaces.
• Natural materials like wood and stone often feature built-in furniture.

3. Climate Adaptation

Cape Cod homes are quintessentially designed for cold, snowy climates, with features like steep roofs and small, compartmentalized rooms to retain heat. In contrast, bungalows excel in warmer regions, where wide eaves and verandas provide shade and promote ventilation.

This may be one reason why there are a lot of Cape Cod-style homes in Northeast Ohio.

4. Layout and Functionality

Cape Cod’s layout reflects older design preferences with smaller, separated rooms and a focus on central heating. Bungalows, on the other hand, embrace open plan living, creating a sense of space and flow. Their built-in furniture and efficient use of space cater to a simpler lifestyle.

5. Modern Appeal

Both styles have endured the test of time. Cape Cod homes are synonymous with cozy, classic Americana, while bungalows remain popular for their versatility and connection to nature. Each style evokes a unique sense of nostalgia and charm.

Measuring These Types of Homes

Measuring these types of homes can be tricky! Especially when using ANSI Z-765 Standards. Why? This is due to the ceilings that often slope on the second floor. When measuring this type of home with these standards, the appraiser will measure from the floor up to where the ceiling slope is at 5′. At least one-half of the finished area (within the area where the 5′ mark begins. These types of properties often have ceiling heights that are less than what the ANSI Z-765 Standards qualify as a finished living area.

For lending, these areas have to be reflected and addressed on a separate line, which is clunky and confusing for many readers of appraisals completed for lending purposes. Often, buyers consider these areas as above-ground finished square footage. Therefore, appraisers have to value the area accordingly. Appraisers may measure to ANSI Standards, but they must appraise to Market Value. So, this gets a little tricky.

If you have a Cape Cod or bungalow-style home and have questions about how appraisers measure these properties, reach out to me or an appraiser in your area to explain how this all works.

Conclusion

At the end of the day, choosing between a Cape Cod and a bungalow often comes down to personal preference, lifestyle needs, home availability, and location. Whether you’re drawn to the symmetrical elegance of Cape Cod or the casual warmth of bungalows, both styles offer timeless appeal. For appraisers, it often comes down to one story vs. one and a half or two stories. Understanding these distinctions is at least interesting and can, at times, tell a little about a home’s unique story.

I hope you enjoyed this little blog. I’ve had a very busy few months, and it’s been difficult to put together a blog. Thank you for your patience in waiting for this one and for the market information below! I appreciate you being here!

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CUYAHOGA COUNTY SINGLE-FAMILY HOUSING TRENDS

Here are some fresh stats for single-family homes in Cuyahoga County. Here are the key points from the data below:

• The median sales price in September was $236,500, up 5% from the prior year.
• In September, there were just over 2 months of single-family inventory on the market, about the same as in September 2024.
• The median single-family list price in September was $239,900, up 14% from the same period last year.
• On average, it takes 23 days to sell a home in September, which is slightly higher than this time last year.
• On average, homes sell at 100% of their listing price.
• There were 11% more active listings last month than in September of 2024.
• There were 5% more pending sales last September than in September of 2024. Finally, we’re heading in the right direction!

SOME THINGS TO MAKE YOU SMILE

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Take a little trip back in history in Cleveland.

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I enjoyed some articles about the Greater Cleveland area. I like sharing these things with you and hope you enjoy them too. Just click on the article to be sent to that article.

In the Fall, Clambakes Migrate to This Midwest City – Food & Wine

Amusement Preservation Museum: Triggering memories of parks and rides of the past – FreshWater Cleveland

Our Northeast Ohio Winter Weekend Begins – Gleason Family Adventure

The Best Things to Do in Cleveland in the Fall – Cleveland Traveler

MORE BLOGS I RECOMMEND

If you enjoyed my blog, you might also enjoy some of my friends’ and colleagues’ blogs! Click their links below to check them out!

APPRAISAL TODAY by Ann O’Rourke

Housing Notes by Jonathan Miller

Sacramento Appraisal Blog by Ryan Lundquist

Real Value Blog and Podcast by Blaine Feyen

The Analog Blog by George Dell

The Appraiser Coach Blog by Dustin Harris

Birmingham Appraisal Blog by Tom Horn

Thanks for being here! I hope you found something in this post that was helpful! I’m working on a new article of my own for next week. Stay tuned!

Have a great week!

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If you want to order a residential real property appraisal in Northeast Ohio, click here. I’d love to help you solve your value problem! I’ve been appraising properties in the following counties since 1998: Cuyahoga, Summit, Lake, Geauga, Portage, Medina, Lorain, and Stark.

* Some parts of this post were created using AI tools, with final edits and opinions by me.