Top Home Addition Ideas to Boost Your Home’s Value

First of all, you will need to have a plot plan of your property, which shows the property lines and distances of existing buildings as well as any proposed buildings with lines there. You will need to ensure the new addition is built “within” the jurisdiction defined by your local Zoning laws.

Establish goals

Before you begin, make a list of the needs and functions the new space will provide. It’s important to determine exactly what you need as well as what better things you might want. It’s always good to include those “special” items you’ve been dreaming about if your budget runs low. If so, you can add what’s on your list.

Determine budget

Before meeting with a builder or architect, it’s important to set a budget that you feel comfortable with. A beautiful design won’t be worth it if it means you have to stretch yourself financially. Develop a budget that includes the fixed costs of the project as well as some reasonable contingencies. Keep in mind increased property taxes, utility costs and even insurance once the addition is complete. Get comfortable and enjoy your new space once the project is complete by sticking to your budget.

Design your home addition

Your current floor plan is a helpful starting point when deciding how to add to your home. Engaging a professional as early as possible in the design process will help the project move forward. Contractors need to work with professional drawings when building your house extension and it is also helpful to have these when looking for potential contractors to get an accurate and accurate estimate. can be compared.

Here are some things to remember when adding design to your home:

  • Consider how the addition will look from the outside.
  • Think about how you will live in this space and make sure it meets your needs.
  • Focus on adding square footage and creating an open floor plan to increase your home’s value.

Hire a design professional

Let’s face it….we think we can design our own homes, but the reality is that Architects design amazing living spaces that the average person can’t even imagine . A design professional also has an added benefit – they often have a “vetted” list of builders they can recommend to you. Some companies are both designers and builders.

Talk to your neighbors

When planning an addition, be sure to talk to your neighbors about the pending project. It’s best to approach them early and be aware of any problems they may be having, especially if your neighbors are close together.

Hire builders

Find some local remodelers in your area by searching online. Check out their website to see some of their past projects to see if they are right for you. You can also check with local building code officials and building supply companies. Ask friends and neighbors for any recommendations. Once you’ve done your homework, send your list down to three builders who can provide you with detailed written estimates.

Hire some projects

The reality is that most people should not try to build an addition as much as you want to try. Remember that if a bank finances the project, they will most likely require you to hire a licensed general contractor. Home additions often require multiple transactions (Think electrical, plumbing, HVAC) and a lot of coordination. The general contractor has ongoing relationships with many subcontractors and has the ability to get everything done in a timely manner.

Evaluate the add-on

Before the design process begins, be sure to sit down with your electrician and HVAC Contractor to determine the capacity of your existing system. It is important to confirm that existing systems can handle the additional load from the new space. This is important information while planning your budget.

Check finances

Make sure your financial backing is in place before breaking ground. You will most likely be asked to bring in significant equity capital, so you need to make sure your finances are in place for the project.

Realistic expectations

Last but not least – be realistic with your budget, needs and expectations. Even small projects can take time and cause major disruption to your home and family. Be prepared for the worst – which means longer hours and major complications. You’ll be less stressed when that new addition is complete.

Prepare the site and start building

Now you are entering the tangible building process. This can be broken down into the following steps:

  • Construction or foundation pouring
  • Complete the framing
  • The floors, walls and roof are constructed and the necessary cladding is applied to the external walls.
  • Exterior windows and doors are installed.
  • Construction of electrical systems, plumbing and HVAC systems.
  • Install insulation and drywall
  • The final step

Related Services