California Real Estate Practice Exam

How does the cost of a two-story house generally compare to a one-story house of the same living space area?

1. Cost factors are equal

2. There is no cost relationship

3. Two-story houses are more costly

4. Two-story houses are less costly

The correct answer is: Cost factors are equal

The cost of a two-story house compared to a one-story house with the same living space area typically tends to be higher. This increase in cost can be attributed to several factors, including the complexity of construction, additional structural support needed for the second story, and potentially higher materials and labor costs associated with building upwards. While both types of homes can have similar overall square footage, two-story designs may require more intricate engineering solutions and more substantial HVAC systems to accommodate the vertical space efficiently. Additionally, two-story homes often need staircases, which adds to the overall construction costs. Consequently, the idea that the cost factors between the two types of homes are equal does not take into account the multiple complexities involved in building a two-story structure, making that choice less accurate.