As homeowners, we all reach a point where we ask ourselves: Is it time to move, or should we invest in our current home? It’s a big decision. If you're finding that your family needs more space or your home isn’t working for you anymore, a home addition might be the perfect solution. But is it the right move for you? Let’s dive into some key considerations that will help you decide.
Why Stay Put Instead of Moving?
Let’s face it: moving is a hassle. You likely have ties to your local community, especially if you’ve been in your home for years or decades. And the thought of finding a new place where you can make your home can be daunting. That’s why more and more homeowners are opting to stay where they are and make their home fit their current stage of life. Whether you need more square footage, a bigger kitchen, additional bedrooms, or a luxurious master suite, an addition can be the smarter, more cost-effective choice.
Will an Addition Boost My Home’s Value?
The short answer is: Usually. Increasing the square footage of your home typically increases its value. How much value it adds can vary based on a few important factors:
The Best Spaces to Add On
What kind of addition gives you the most bang for your buck? In our experience, kitchens and master suites top the list for improved functionality and return on investment. Depending on your needs, adding more family space or a home office can also make a big difference—especially now that so many people are working remotely. The key is to focus on the spaces that will make your daily life more comfortable and functional.
Important Considerations Before You Start
Consider a few practical details before you get too excited about your dream addition. One of the biggest is your property’s setbacks — the distance from your property line to the edge of where you can build. It’s crucial to check your local zoning regulations or talk to your zoning department to get this information upfront. Finding out your dream addition is too close to the property line after you’ve started is not fun.
Also, consider the condition of your existing structure. If you’re building up, the floor below must support the new level. If you’re building out, remember to account for the cost of excavation, a new foundation, and running all the necessary utilities.
Should You Build Up or Out?
This is one of the most common questions we hear from homeowners. The answer? It depends on your goals and your property. In general, it’s usually cheaper to build up than out. But going up often means reworking the floor below, while building out requires more infrastructure work, like excavating and laying a new foundation. The best option for you will depend on what you want to achieve and how much space you have to work with.
Hidden Challenges in the Design/Build Process
Even the best-laid plans can run into hidden challenges, and home additions are no exception. One common challenge is ensuring the new space flows well with the existing layout. The last thing you want is a disjointed floor plan. Another potential hiccup is ensuring floor levels match up. A step up or down between rooms may sound minor, but it can be a nuisance if not planned correctly.
Balancing Your Vision with Your Budget
Everyone has a vision for their home addition, but that vision doesn’t always align with the budget. That’s why we always recommend starting with a feasibility study. Once we have a floor plan and concept, this study helps us estimate the project cost and create an allowance list for finishes and materials. Knowing what you’re working with financially from the beginning ensures realistic expectations and fewer surprises along the way.
Energy Efficiency and Sustainability
Energy efficiency is a big deal in today’s construction world, and the newer building codes are pushing us toward more sustainable practices — whether we’re ready or not! The 2021 and 2024 energy codes require home additions to be much more energy-efficient than older parts of the home. This is great for lowering energy bills but can also mean higher upfront costs. Remember that while your new space will be ultra-efficient, it won’t necessarily match the rest of your home.
When is the Right Time to Add On?
Before committing to a home addition, consider whether reconfiguring your existing space could solve your problems. Sometimes, a creative redesign can give you the functionality you need without the expense of a complete addition. Our firm has in-depth conversations with every client to help determine the best path forward. We’re not just contractors but your partners in finding the right solution.
Ready to Get Started? Here’s What to Do First
If you’re thinking about adding on, here are the first steps to take before reaching out to a design/build firm:
You don’t want to rush a home addition or go it alone. Planning, designing, and executing it takes time and expertise. Depending on the scope, designing and preparing for construction can take 3 to 12 months. If you’re ready to explore the possibilities, let’s talk! We’re here to guide you every step of the way.