Introduction
Building an addition to your house is an exciting project that will provide several benefits to you and your family. There are a lot of things to consider when building an addition, whether you want to add a second story or adding to lateral square footage to your existing home. The best home improvements are well-planned and not hurried; a split-second or impulsive decision usually results in more expenses with little or no added benefit.
Making home improvements needs careful planning. However, the best way to ease into the process is to turn your idea into a documented plan. Begin by sketching out your ideas for everything you want to include in the additional unit. Consider flow and design. Consider hiring a design and construction contractor to assist you.
Also, time and fees for permits and approvals for projects like this, differ by city and county. If you are a homeowner association member, you will need to verify the governing regulations to see if your addition project is even allowed.
Will a Home Addition Be Beneficial in The Long Run?
Even if you have no intention of selling when your dazzling new space is finished, a new addition should pay for itself in the long term. Here’s what you can anticipate getting back on some common home improvement investments from Remodeling magazine’s 2021 Cost vs. Value Report:
- Sunroom yields an estimated 50% return.
- Bathroom addition: 57.9%
- Master Suite Addition: 54.7%
- Two-story addition: 65%. (An upstairs master suite and a downstairs living area)
In this article, we’ll provide you with a starter guide if you’re considering adding a new addition to your home.
Know your Zoning Restrictions and Obtain Permits
Construction permits and inspections are vital because they ensure that all necessary precautions are followed during the construction process to keep the project safe. Permits are also necessary since if you don’t have them, you risk getting fined.
Architects, engineers and general contractors have lot of knowledge in dealing with these things. While applying for permits, you’ll most likely need a comprehensive set of blueprints that cover site plan, floorplans and structural plans.
You will need to fill out an application, which may or may not be available on the internet, depending on your county. Most homeowners go to the city hall to obtain their permit applications. Also, expect to pay a fee for each permit. Fees vary by region. You general contractor or architect can take care of this process for you for a small fee.
Permit Types
When embarking on an expansion project, you will almost certainly require the following permits:
- Building Permit
- Electrical
- Plumbing
- Mechanical
- Septic Permit (if you are doing upgrade to septic system)
- Street use permit in certain cases
- Tree removal permit
Any other permits required by your township or municipality.
Have You Thought About Remodeling an Existing Space Instead of Adding a New One?
The costs of building an addition onto your house may quickly mount up, so it’s best not to rush in without first exploring alternatives. You might need to look at other options to cut your project’s costs. And the easiest way to do so is to search for methods to avoid or minimize the need to add on – whether by finishing the attic or basement or simply remodeling existing living space.
A bump-out is a great way to add a walk-in closet, mudroom, put a tub in a small bathroom, or create elbow room in a small kitchen without breaking the bank. Cantilever construction suspends the addition from the side of the house, usually without affecting the roof.
Figuring Costs
Since every house, site, and homeowner’s wish list is unique, the only way to get a realistic estimate for your specific project is to speak to local contractors (Get a free quote from Lolark today).
However, as a rule of thumb, in current times expect to spend between $300 and $450 per square foot. Anything less is a red flag of sloppy work, and anything more means you’re being hung out to dry.
Ensure you plan ahead of time and always set a budget, so you don’t lose money. Also, keep in mind that increasing the size of your house raises your annual tax rate, so plan accordingly.
Is It Smart for Me to Build Up or Out?
There are two conventional ways to add on to a house: building up or building out.
There may be more than one way of designing a home addition project, so weigh the benefits and drawbacks of each option before proceeding. Because it eliminates the need for excavation and foundation work, building up can save you money. Going up, on the other hand, will require removal of existing roof and cost can climb up based on structural requirements.
This issue can be resolved by considering if you have enough area on your property for an addition and also the purpose of space you want to add.
Hire a contractor to construct your house addition
Though it may be tempting to just do it all yourself, this is not that kind of job. Home additions are complicated and, as a result, require a high level of expertise. You may wind up lowering the value of your home if you lack the necessary skills. Allow the pros to handle the task for your safety and peace of mind.
Lolark contractors can assist you in carrying out your remodeling project, from start to finish.