Developer Bobby Fijan Champions 16-18 Foot Wide Rowhouses as Ideal Starter Homes

Philadelphia, PA – Real estate developer Bobby Fijan, founder of Form Developers, is actively promoting and constructing a specific type of three-story rowhouse, ranging from 16 to 18 feet in width, as the optimal "starter home" solution for a diverse market. These units, offering 1200-1600 square feet and 3-4 bedrooms, are designed to function effectively in both detached and attached configurations, making them suitable for urban and suburban environments.

"The 16-18' wide rowhouse is the perfect 'starter home'," Fijan stated in a recent social media post. He elaborated that his company is building this typology because "it’s beautiful and functional as both detached AND attached… so it works in both urban & suburban neighborhoods." This approach aims to address the growing demand for attainable housing options that cater to families and individuals looking to enter the housing market.

Fijan, known for his focus on family-friendly housing and floorplan optimization, previously co-founded Tailorbird, a construction technology company, and Cross Properties. His work with Form Developers centers on ground-up and heavy value-add multifamily and mixed-use developments, with a particular emphasis on projects designed for families. He has been a vocal advocate for diversifying housing options beyond smaller units that have dominated recent apartment construction.

The concept of a "starter home" has evolved significantly, with many traditional entry-level homes becoming increasingly unaffordable. Fijan's strategy with these adaptable rowhouses seeks to bridge this gap by offering a practical and aesthetically pleasing option that maximizes space and functionality. This type of housing can provide a more accessible entry point to homeownership compared to larger, more expensive single-family detached homes, while still offering ample living space.

The versatility of the 16-18 foot wide, three-story rowhouse allows for efficient land use, which is crucial in both dense urban areas and land-constrained suburban locales. By designing units that can be either attached or detached, Form Developers aims to meet varying zoning requirements and community preferences, expanding the potential reach of this housing model. This development aligns with broader discussions in the real estate industry about the need for more diverse and attainable housing solutions to accommodate changing demographics and economic realities.