Whether you're an empty-nester or have a house full of kids, don’t bypass bungalows in your search for your new home. The same features that make bungalow-style homes convenient for Boomers are just as desirable for families with young children.
Bungalows have their roots in 19th century Bengal, India. The British imitated the thatch homes that were being built at the time, creating the first bungalows. They are known for their open and efficient floor plans, central living rooms, gentle roof slope, and built-in cabinets.
There are several types of bungalows, including the California Bungalow:

The Chicago Bungalow:

And the Swiss Chalet Bungalow:

Bungalow is not code for "tiny home," although smaller homes are often referred to as bungalows.
The bungalow style is typically only one story, but can be listed as one and a half stories with a partial second floor and dormers. But there is no standard for square footage. Some homes are less than 1,000 square feet, while others, particularly more recently built homes, are larger—they can be over 3,000 square feet!
Bungalows can be a cozy retreat for two or a spacious shelter for a growing family.
Bungalows feature an open floor plan, giving a larger feel to the home. Entertaining is easier because you can socialize with your guests even while you're plating appetizers in the kitchen, and your guests won’t feel boxed into a small living room or overcrowded dining room.
This layout is also more convenient for creating intimate conversation areas, adding more seating for game night, and hosting your neighborhood Super Bowl Party.
Because of the open floor plan, living in a bungalow can be a better option for people who use wheelchairs, not to mention single-story construction means no stairs to negotiate. That’s also a plus for people with young children—no need to put up inconvenient safety gates! And for families, it's certainly easier to keep an eye on the kids without walls blocking your line of sight.
Bungalow home construction is on the rise, but there are plenty of vintage homes available as well.
Traditional Bungalow architecture features hardwoods like heart of pine, wide baseboards, and crown molding. You'll often find beautiful built-in storage such as china cabinets, bookshelves, and benches with room underneath the seat for blankets, pillows, and linens.
As with any older home, there are some potential problems to watch out for. Older bungalows might have knob-and-tube wiring, terracotta pipes, and sometimes structural issues. Building codes have changed over the years to ensure safety and security. If you want to update or remodel the vintage bungalow you're buying, be clear on what you'll need to change to comply with current codes.
Want to know where to find a bungalow, whether new or vintage? Here are the main neighborhoods in the Research Triangle area of North Carolina.
Downtown Durham is the #1 hotspot for bungalows with its many older neighborhoods. But there's plenty of new construction as well.
For home shoppers interested in Durham real estate, check out the historic neighborhood of Watts-Hillandale, which often features 1920s and 1930s bungalows for sale. Also take a peek at our guide to historic neighborhoods in Durham, which describes the historic neighborhoods near downtown. You’ll spot a few vintage bungalows as you tour the area.
Raleigh bungalow neighborhoods include Battery Heights, Belvidere Park, Bloomsbury, Boylan Heights, Cameron Park, Cameron Village, College Park, Oakwood, Lockwood, University Park, and Windsor Park.
Check out Bedford at Falls River if you’re looking for a huge neighborhood and newer homes. Or consider the prestigious Hayes Barton neighborhood, developed in the 1920s, for vintage construction.
Chapel Hill showcases bungalows in the new neighborhood of Briar Chapel, as well as in Northside and Hillview.
If you love the look of a bungalow but prefer new construction, you have several great options available. Here are our top picks:
Below is a complete list of residential bungalows for sale in Chapel Hill, Durham, Raleigh, and the surrounding areas in North Carolina. Search for your favorite homes, whether you prefer move-in ready or like to do a little fixing up. Contact us today and schedule a visit. We can help you narrow down your search to find your new home faster.
Welcome to this inviting home in the heart of Pittsboro in the desired Powell Place community! With a comfortable layout and plenty of space, this home is a great fit fo...
LOCATION! LOCATION! LOCATION! Whether you want to take a short 1.5 mile drive to all the entertainment downtown Durham has to offer or a leisure stroll to the neighborhoo...
You can own a Piece of Raleigh History: The Lucille Hunter House. It is a rare opportunity to restore a landmark in the heart of downtown Raleigh. Located in the Prince H...
**FINAL OPPORTUNITY! SITE FINISHED HARDWOOD FLOORS** Unmatched quality. Situated just a stone's throw from Wendell Falls' newest pool amenity, this popular Fletcher comes...
A modern urban retreat in the heart of Downtown Durham, 416 Dowd St blends historic character with contemporary comfort, perfect for buyers seeking walkability, style, an...
Step into effortless luxury and peace of mind in this completely reimagined 3-bedroom, 2.5-bath home nestled in a sought-after golf course community. Every inch of this p...
Super cute Northgate Park brick bungalow, built in 1952, with character you can't fake: original pine floors, arched doorways, and light-filled rooms that feel good the s...
Distinctive character, easy one-level living, and an exceptional Raleigh location come together at 3004 Rue Sans Famille. Set in the established Sans Famille neighborhood...
Welcome to this beautifully updated 3-bedroom, 2-bath bungalow located in Durham's vibrant Lyon Park neighborhood, perfectly situated between Downtown Durham and the Lake...
No HOA! Welcome to a newly built one-story ranch/bungalow-style home where every detail has been thoughtfully designed with style, comfort, and functionality in mind. Thi...
**Price reflects incentive to close on or before 9/29/2026**SITE FINISHED FLOORS! Unique opportunity! Our Jarvis plan has been a perennial favorite among our homeowners...
Welcome to this immaculate home located in Fuquay-Varina's premier 55+ active adult community, Carolina Gardens by Del Webb. Designed for effortless single story living, ...
This is not just a house. This is Mae's house. For more than 70 years, this little home belonged to one extraordinary woman. Built in 1950 and lovingly cared for by its ...
Fenced pastures, livestock sheds, an energy efficient home...all situated on over 7 beautiful acres! Multiple turnout areas include run-in sheds perfect for the horses. ...
Looking for a charming, well-cared-for Raleigh bungalow in the standout Belvidere Park neighborhood? Welcome to 208 Myers Avenue. Pride of ownership is evident throughout...
Welcome to this beautifully maintained home nestled on a peaceful cul-de-sac, surrounded by mature trees and beautifully landscaped gardens. Relax on the inviting front ...
**ONE OF A KIND UNIQUE OPPORTUNITY, 10' CEILINGS, FINISHED 3RD FLOOR GUEST SUITE, SITE FINISHED HARDWOOD FLOORS** As the premium builder of small homes in Wendell Fall...
The classics are the classics for a reason! And it doesn't get more classic than this adorable bungalow with a deep front porch in Trinity Park. This is an exceptional op...
To be Built! Welcome to your dream home — a stunning one-story modern bungalow designed for today's lifestyle. No HOA, with 3 spacious bedrooms, 2 full baths, and over 1,...
Now with significantly more outdoor space! The combined 905 & 907 Morehead parcels bring this classic Durham bungalow to approximately 0.28 acres—rare added room to sprea...
Renovated, historic, and in the heart of Downtown Mebane, this charming 1915 bungalow blends timeless character with modern updates. Leave the car behind and enjoy an eas...
Live in and work in this charming 1930s Craftsman-style bungalow located in Durham's versatile Office/Institutional, Urban Tier district. Step through the front gate into...
**Receive up to $15,000 towards a rate buydown, closing costs, or upgrades with a closing on or before 8/28/2026. Incentive subject to change without notice. See Agent Fo...
Welcome to the perfect blend of historic Durham charm and modern convenience at 1007 Rosedale Avenue. Located one mile from Durham's sought-after American Tobacco Histori...
Caniacs and Wolfpack fans, this one's for you! Never pay for parking to see your favorite team again! Tucked in one of West Raleigh's most established neighborhoods off H...
Package of two tiny homes- Each home is 1030 htsqft ( 2nd home noted below as Det living area for MLS entry purposes ) Primary can add bedrooms based on Septic capability...
Package of two tiny homes- Each home is 1030 htsqft ( 2nd home noted below as Det living area for MLS entry purposes ) Primary can add bedrooms based on Septic capabilit...
Renovation and/or Redevelopment opportunity in Downtown Raleigh 27601. On the BRT. This Property has many possibilities. Renovate, add ADU's. Or Tear down and entitle for...
Big charm in a perfectly sized Durham bungalow in the Tuscaloosa Lakewood neighborhood!! 2335 Huron Street welcomes you with an inviting wraparound porch that flows to th...
Seller offering $5,000 in buyer incentives! Completely renovated in 2026, this downtown Raleigh bungalow blends timeless character with a fresh, modern feel. Soaring 10 f...
SEE PRICE IMPROVEMENT!! Enjoy low-maintenance living just steps from Historic Oakwood and only a few blocks from the State Capitol, Person Street, restaurants, breweries,...
The Andrew Falls House is a picturesque early-20th-century brick cottage located in Durham's historic Watts-Hillandale neighborhood. Distinguished by its steep front-gabl...
**RECEIVE UP TO $3,000 IN CLOSING COSTS WITH USE OF PREFERRED LENDER!** Attention First time home buyers, empty nesters, and investors! A desirable corner lot at the edg...
Welcome home to Windsor Circle. This renovated 3-bedroom home features three additional flex/office spaces, a big kitchen, a large primary suite, a screened porch, and a ...
Peaceful country living on 1.5 WOODED ACRES, yet just 15 minutes from Downtown Cary, 8 minutes from Amberly, and approximately 2 miles from the American Tobacco Trail. Tu...
Homes in highly desirable historic Madonna Acres rarely come around very often and 1508 Tierney Circle is worth the wait! This modern gem is light, bright and effortlessl...
Looking for luxury MAIN-FLOOR LIVING in the Heritage Wake Forest area? This beautifully maintained, one-owner home pairs an easy, livable floor plan with exceptional spac...
A rare opportunity in Carrboro's sought-after historic district, this home is a few blocks from downtown shopping and Carrboro Elementary School. Most of the homes in thi...
Nestled in Durham's highly coveted, tree-lined Watts-Hillandale Historic District, this classic brick home blends timeless historic character with a rare Cape Cod flouris...
Beautiful home in convenient Five Points neighborhood in Raleigh. Walkable to Five Points shops and restaurants and just minutes to Glenwood South and Fayetteville St. ...
This vintage Raleigh bungalow is Inside The Beltline living done right. With open living spaces and high ceilings, 808 Brooklyn Street will make your dreams come true. Th...
This historic home offers incredible authenticity and history as well as all of the benefits of being walking distance from the edge of downtown Raleigh. Located within R...
****High Interest Rates have you rethinking buying a home? Not with this new custom build! This home is available via private financing with rates between 2.5% -4.5%.***...
One of a kind in Briar Chapel. This unique home stands apart with its exterior wooden beams and black and white exterior. Tres chic. Inside features 4 bedrooms and 3 full...
DOWNTOWN CARY'S BEST AVAILABLE LOT! JUST 3 BLOCKS AWAY FROM DOWNTOWN CARY PARK, 224 CLAY STREET IS AN IDEAL BUILDABLE LOT WITH AMPLE SPACE TO DESIGN YOUR DREAM HOME. THIS...
Complete privacy in highly sought-after North Chatham, where peace and tranquility define everyday living--yet you're just a short drive to Pittsboro, Carrboro, Chapel Hi...
Own a little piece of Durham history with this updated 1922 bungalow. A rare find: this property includes a recently built ADU with a full bedroom, bathroom, kitchen, and...
Charming Craftsman Home with 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom that perfectly blends timeless architectural character with modern features. Hardwood Floors, downstairs original to ...
Historic Character Meets Timeless Charm in Downtown Raleigh. Step into a rare piece of Raleigh history at 514 E Lane Street, where classic architecture, soaring ceilings,...
WOW, Here is the opportunity you have been waiting for to invest in your future. You've always wanted to be ITB, but finding a move-in ready property you'd be happy with ...
Dreaming of owning a historic bungalow? This 1930's home in the heart of Chapel Hill could be yours. Situated in the Cameron-McCauley Historic District, this updated home...
Welcome to this beautifully designed 5-bedroom, 4-bathroom home by award-winning Homes by Dickerson, ideally located in the heart of Holly Springs—a community known for i...
Beautiful field stone 1930's historical bungalow with tons of charm in the heart of Bloomsbury/Five Points! Original hardwoods, 9' foot ceilings, 12" trim. Lovely family...
Some homes simply cannot be captured in a few photos, and 36 W Academy Street is one of them. Located in the heart of historic Wendell, this one-of-a-kind property brings...
Beautifully renovated for modern one-level living, with a second building featuring a 3-car garage, heated/cooled office, workshop space, and ADU potential. This home ble...
Easy living meets unexpected flexibility at 504 Weaver Mine Trail. A welcoming front porch sets the tone for this light-filled home, where vaulted ceilings, hardwood floo...
A rare opportunity to own a fully renovated historic home just minutes from Downtown Raleigh, Glenwood South, and the Village District. Blending timeless Raleigh charact...
Welcome to 2718 Peachtree St, a premier, updated gem tucked away in a highly sought-after Raleigh location! This 2,090 sq ft home has been thoughtfully updated to blend m...
Captivating 1925 Craftsman Bungalow in Downtown Raleigh's Oakwood Community! Steeped in history and brimming with architectural integrity, this circa 1925 Craftsman bunga...
Over 2300 sq. feet of heated living space in this rare opportunity right in the middle of the Carrboro Mill Village. Renovated and wonderful spaces, this bungalow feature...
Nestled on approximately two private wooded acres in one of the Triangle's most desirable locations, this custom Zinn Design Build home offers a rare opportunity to enjoy...
Thoughtfully Designed. Beautifully Crafted. Naturally Connected. Very little about this home feels accidental. From the moment you enter through the gate and follow the d...
Built in 1925 and thoughtfully renovated and expanded by Madison Renovations in 2024, 2231 The Circle has all the charm of a classic Five Points bungalow, beautifully upd...
RARE presale opportunity in the heart of Carrboro! Walking distance to shopping, dining and UNC Main Campus. Large private home site. Bright and airy open floor plan wit...
Completely rebuilt to new construction standards behind a partially protected historic facade. New CO, builder warranty, appliance warranties, new mechanicals, new syste...
There's a new MARSHALL in town!! :) An exceptional opportunity to acquire 33+ STUNNING ACRES with remarkable lifestyle appeal and long-term investment potential! This uni...
Rare opportunity to purchase one of only 6 historic Carrboro bungalows on large estate lots in Carrboro's most desirable location. Unlike the rest, this one has undergone...
Walk to Lacy Elementary! Pool Included! Pre-Sale Opportunity inside the beltline (ITB) in one of the most desirable areas within walking distance to Lacy Elementary and e...
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