property

Buffalo Downsizers Flock to Single-Story Homes: Sales Jump 22 Percent

Single-story homes in Amherst and Williamsville drew 22 percent more buyers in the first half of 2026 than the prior year as Buffalo residents seek lower-maintenance living.

By Buffalo Property Desk · Published July 8, 2026

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This article was written by AI from the linked sources and was not reviewed by a journalist before publishing. The Daily Buffalo is part of The Daily Network and follows our reasonable editorial care.

Buffalo Downsizers Flock to Single-Story Homes: Sales Jump 22 Percent — Photo by WasifMalik / flickr (by)

Single-story homes in Amherst posted the strongest sales growth among Erie County suburbs through June 2026, with 184 transactions recorded by the Buffalo Niagara Association of Realtors.

The shift reflects an older cohort of homeowners who no longer want two-story properties or large yards yet prefer to stay within a short drive of Buffalo medical centers and family. Interest rates that eased in late 2025 allowed more sellers to list without taking a loss, unlocking inventory that downsizers had waited for.

Neighborhoods drawing the most attention

Buyers are concentrating along Main Street in Williamsville and near the intersection of Sheridan Drive and Transit Road in Amherst. Both corridors offer walkable access to pharmacies, restaurants and the 33 bus line that reaches Buffalo General Medical Center in under 25 minutes. The Village of Williamsville also completed sidewalk repairs along Grove Street in May, removing a common barrier for residents who use walkers or canes.

Local real-estate agents report that properties listed under $320,000 in these pockets receive multiple offers within the first week, while larger homes in the same zip codes sit longer.

Prices and next steps

The median sale price for single-story homes in Amherst reached $289,500 in the second quarter of 2026, up from $264,000 one year earlier. Erie County records show property-tax abatements for owners over 65 remain available through the Senior Citizen Exemption program, trimming annual bills by up to $1,200 for qualifying buyers.

Anyone considering a move should review current listings on the Greater Buffalo Multiple Listing Service and schedule inspections before the fall school-year rush begins in August. Contacting the Amherst Senior Center at 3700 Main Street provides details on local support services that often factor into final decisions.

This article is general information only and is not personal financial or investment advice. Consider your own circumstances and seek licensed professional advice before making financial decisions.

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