Owning a home is a major part of the American dream. Those who’ve achieved this goal sometimes find that their home no longer meets their space needs as their family grows. At times, it can make more sense to simply add on to an existing home rather than go through the process of getting a mortgage for a larger home. Here are some things to consider before starting an addition.
Contents
Will it Make Financial Sense?
There will be a sizable cost associated with a home addition. It is important to assess this cost before building out or up. A home equity loan or a new mortgage might be needed to make the addition happen. It will also be important to have an idea of how much the proposed addition will increase the market value of a home.
What Is the Lay of the Land?
Not all lots are equally suited to building additions. A home that sits directly on water or that has a steep slope on one side and a road on the other might not work. Townhouses are definitely out of the question when it comes to adding on. When these situations are present, it might be a better idea to look elsewhere for more space.
A Small Addition Can Make a Big Difference
An addition might not need to add hundreds of square feet to meet a homeowner’s needs or add value to a home. For example, adding four feet to an existing kitchen can provide a great deal of space that can benefit a family. A relatively small addition can also bring a master suite into reality and free up a bedroom for a child or elderly parent. Talk with a contractor, or an interior designer when it comes to knowing just how much space you’ll really need.
What Lies Underground?
The first step to any ground-level expansion will be laying a solid foundation for the additional space. This requires digging a footer and laying block. Many towns have underground utility lines. It is important to look for electric, gas, water and sewer lines before digging around. There are a variety of people you could call to get things checked out. Kamloops Septic Service is one of the excavating contractors up in Kamloops B.C. and is a good example of someone, you could even call your local utility company as well. There are plenty of options out there, make sure to be safe and consult a pro.
Should You Move Out?
Construction can be loud and messy. While it is going on, it might be hard for kids to concentrate on homework. Dust might get into food. Staying with a friend or in a hotel for a couple of weeks might be a good idea if the project is too involved.
There are many things to consider when adding on to a home. These are just a few. Proper planning can go a long way to ensuring that a home addition is a positive experience and not an unmitigated disaster.
I agree totally that additions don’t have to be extensive. In fact, I would say that you should see if you can extend your living space without adding on to your home. Don’t get me wrong, I think it is great to add on to a home, however, if you have a large garage you might consider if you really need all of that room. It is a great place to add a couple of feet to your home, especially when your kitchen is right off of the garage.
Thanks for the helpful post on things to consider before getting an addition to your home. I am planning on renovating my home, and possibly adding on to one part as well. I like what you put about making sure that my lot is qualified for the renovation and addition. I will be sure to check with the city to make sure I am cleared. I also like what you said about it making financial sense. I think that it will help raise the value of my home which I plan on selling eventually. Thanks for the help!