[GDSOB]

If you are getting a deal on the split level because of the design, you will likely not see as much appreciation as the true colonials. Buyers buy what they like. Builders are not building new split levels for a reason. However, if it has location going for it, that may trump the unpopular design when it comes time to sell.

I would only buy if it was cheap compared to similar houses in the neighborhood.

Watch your budget for improvements and don't try to make it something that it is not. Expect it to sell for what a nice split level in your neighborhood will sell for, nothing much more.

If you like the house & area, it meets your other criteria, buy it for what it is. Hope you get a good deal.