Rafaela Hsu Rafaela Hsu

While summer is a good time to make changes to your house, you don’t have to start from scratch and buy a new one. In fact, rather than completely renovating your beloved house, you might want to think about adding on to it if you’ve been a homeowner for a while but it just isn’t meeting all of your needs and wants anymore.

This summer, have you been bitten by the renovation bug? Bravo if you’re thinking about expanding your house! Prior to planning an extremely fulfilling demolition day, take into account a few factors.

Before building an addition to your house, consider these five questions:

What can I afford to spend?

It goes without saying that you shouldn’t just start renovating your house without first considering the cost of doing so.

Like making sure to get multiple estimates for the work from the professionals who will be providing the construction of your addition. And when you have their estimates, you need to make sure that you include a few additional costs like materials, permits, potential design changes, and any unforeseen expenses that can arise during the renovation process.

By accounting for these factors, you can try and avoid budget overruns, ensuring a much smoother renovation experience.

Is it worth it?

Perhaps you’re thinking of money when we talk about this. However, it’s possible that we’re discussing your level of happiness at home. You should think about the resale value and potential return on investment of the addition if you plan to sell your house after making an addition, as certain renovations can significantly improve your home’s marketability, often recouping a substantial portion of your costs.

Think about how this might improve your quality of life at home if you don’t plan to sell. Will it provide more space for family gatherings or maybe help improve your home-work life?

Understanding and really reflecting on the personal value an addition brings can be just as crucial as its financial implications.

Would remodeling be a better alternative?

Before you start tearing down walls to create one, take a moment to assess your current living situation. Take stock of your existing space instead. Are your kids attending college soon, or will they be moving out? Could you add multiple new rooms and finish your basement? Rather than building a new home, it might be more cost-effective to make smaller improvements to your existing one. Before starting any significant construction around your home, consider all of your options.

Which Rules Must I Comply With?

You will most likely have to follow certain rules when it comes to adding onto your house, unless you live in a remote area with few regulations. Get in touch with the county or city government offices to find out what regulations you might need to abide by during the building process before you start spending money and breaking ground on all your improvements.

Additionally, make sure to confirm whether or not a Homeowners’ Association (HOA) is in charge of your property. If it is, it is important to check their guidelines as well. HOAs will always have their own set of rules regarding modifications to homes, this includes the aesthetic standards and the restrictions on the types of additions allowed. Ensuring that your plans align with both the municipal regulations and HOA requirements can save you from having to reverse any unauthorized changes or incurring potential fines.

Can I afford this in the long run?

Yes, you did initially think about how much you would spend on your renovation project. On the other hand, some house additions may result in long-term expenses. After you add on, think about the additional expenses for heating and cooling your house. Consider raising your property taxes as well. Remember to factor in any extras you plan to add, such as a hot tub or an extra bathroom. These extras may increase monthly costs. Make sure you’re ready to cover any additional expenses your addition might require.

A great way to extend the life of your home is to add on to it. However, you must be certain that your addition is the best choice for you before you start construction. Inquire about the addition in advance to avoid any surprises during the project.

Just always remember that before initiating any significant construction projects, explore all your options thoroughly. A well-thought-out renovation project can enhance your living space without the stress and expense of a full remodel. Resources like Houzz or HomeAdvisor can provide inspiration and guidance.