A Realtor’s Guide to Marketing Ranch Style Homes
Aug 17, 2023Growing up in California, I’ve always been drawn to the familiarity and mid-century charm of Ranch Style homes. Also known as ranchers or ramblers, Ranch Style homes are characterized by their single-story design, open layout, and nostalgic, family-friendly aesthetic. In the Hodson House, we are self-proclaimed super fans of Joanna Gaines and her Fixer Uppers. We especially love watching her and her husband work their magic on Ranch Style homes — mixing their distinctive Magnolia style with the traditional and historical elements of these homes.
As a real estate agent, you most likely won’t have Joanna and Chip staging your Ranch style listing. Thus, it’s your job to highlight the positive attributes of this architectural style while painting a picture of the life a potential buyer might build in the space. In this blog post, I’m aiming to help you market your listing and show it in all its Ranch style glory!
Keywords and Architectural Elements to Highlight
While some modern style homes can feel sterile, Ranch Style homes have the benefit of evoking a myriad of emotions. For many, these homes represent bygone eras — whether through lived experiences or Hollywood snapshots. They’re often associated with family gatherings and humble upbringings, backyard adventures, and childhood innocence. When creating a listing description, consider using keywords that evoke these positive associations. Here’s a list to get you started:
- Family gatherings
- Warm & inviting
- Celebrating special occasions
- Outdoor living
- Backyard adventures
- Nostalgic charm
- Mid-century modern aesthetic
- Family-friendly layout
- Iconic color palettes
- Sleek, timeless accents
- Preserved charm infused with modern amenities
- Functional living
- Architectural longevity
- Sense of community
- Backdrop for personal stories to unfold
- Comfort & togetherness
Once you’ve got your listing sounding warm and inviting, you’ll want to make sure to bring attention to the traditional architectural elements of these homes. Here are some common attributes you’ll want to highlight:
- Single-Story Design: We love a single-story home! Not only is it accessible for all, but there’s room to grow up.
- Long, Low Profile: Think long, horizontal lines with a low, flat roof line. Classic, sleek, with a touch of mid-century modern style.
- Open Floor Plan: Sure, open floor plans are in style, but they are also timeless. These homes typically feel more spacious and are great for gatherings of all shapes and sizes.
- Attached Garage: You’ll often find the garage integrated into the overall design with Ranch Style homes. This is convenient — especially in the suburbs and in colder or hotter climates.
- Minimalist: You’ll get form function over form through and through with Ranch homes. The exterior and interior details are perfect for a minimalist or become a blank slate for the Joanna and Chip wannabes.
- Natural Light: These homes are often adorned with sliding glass doors and large, gorgeous windows. There is a natural flow between the indoor and outdoor portions of the home.
- Privacy: You’ll often find the bedrooms sectioned off away from the main living space for increased privacy. This is known as the “bedroom wing.”
- Bedroom Wing: Many ranch style homes have a "bedroom wing," where the bedrooms are grouped together away from the main living areas for privacy.
Famous Ranch Style Homes to Share as Inspiration
Putting together a listing presentation or pre-listing kit? It’s always fun and helpful to include some aspirational photos. Luckily, there is plenty to work with when it comes to dreamy Ranch Style homes. Here are some examples to choose from:
Joseph Eichler is credited for popularizing the modernist ranch homes in California. K In other words, he’s a pretty big deal. If you’re a fan of post-and-beam construction and open layouts, a home like the one below will be the apple of your eye.
Checkout this gorgeous estate located in Rancho Mirage, California. Designed by architect A. Quincy Jones, there’s no shortage of famous politicians and celebrities who have spent a night or more under this roof.
The Stahl House is the perfect example of the indoor meets outdoor aesthetic every Ranch Home strives to accomplish. Is it just me or are you about ready to jump in that pool and enjoy a pool-side cocktail?
Affordable Staging Accents to Shop
While the bones of a Ranch Style home are valuable in their own right, it’s essential to add a splash of personality. When showing one of these classic homes, consider adding some mid-century modern touches throughout. You’ll want to search for furniture with clean lines, geometric shapes, neutral color palettes, and natural materials. For fun accents, try pillows and art with oranges, teals, and mustards. While I’d keep accessories to a minimum, a statement light, retro rug, or indoor plant might be the perfect upgrade. Fun tip: these also make great closing gifts! Here are some quick and affordable accessories you can shop and add to spruce up your listing:
Amazon Finds for Staging Ranch Style Homes & Closing Gifts
Minimalist Small Ceramic Vase Set
Small Vintage Glass Vases (12 set)
Wood & Brass Tealight Candle Holders
Natural Wood Framed Modern Art Print
Minimalist Modern Entryway Rack
About the Author
👩🏻💻 Justine Hodson is the head designer and cofounder of SellWell. She writes about graphic design, Canva, agent photography, and how to make your brand look great on a budget. Find her articles on the perfect headshot, how to use Canva templates, and more.
