When a family expansion is imminent, many homeowners consider the option of addition a new room to the house. This is often simpler than having to go through the process of selling your house and finding a new one that meets your needs. However, room additions are still complex jobs. In fact, they are often as complex as building an entirely new house, so weigh your options carefully before agreeing to this project.
The Same Things Go Into a Room as a House
When you are adding a new room to your home, you have to realize that a lot more is going into it than just the walls. A foundation needs to be laid. Plumbing and electrical systems need to be set up and work perfectly with the systems you have throughout the rest of your house. You need to acquire permits and review zoning laws, which is exactly what you would need to do were you building a new house. It takes a lot of work, so you need to hire a contractor who is comfortable with all of those facets.
Accurate Estimates Need to Be Acquired
Room additions are going to cost more than simply remodeling a kitchen or bathroom. Most contractors offer estimates based on square footage, which is similar to estimates you would get with new home construction. While price based on square feet is common, you need to ask the contractor what he or she is basing the estimate off of. This way you do not get any unpleasant surprises when it comes time to pay.
You Need to Think About Resale Value
You might be adding a room to get more space for your family. However, you need to think long-term when it comes to these kinds of home improvement projects. You might want a room that meets a certain need you have, but you need to think about how that room is going to look to prospective buyers down the road. You want to be certain that you get as much out of your new room as you put in. For this reason, it can be wise to speak with a professional realtor to get some advice.
As exciting as it might seem to add some room additions to your house, it is not a decision you want to make lightly. You need to really think if this is what is best for your family and the property. As long as you think ahead, you should be fine.
