What to Consider When Adding Onto a House

RWR Adding Onto A HouseSo you have decided you want a little extra room? Maybe it is because you have finally launched that home-based business? Or, perhaps your family is expanding, and adult children or parents are moving in.

Whatever the reason may be, you have decided that your existing house is simply not big enough for your current needs.

Now that you have officially decided to embark on the adventure of adding onto your house, it is time to sit down and devise a well-planned strategy.

For starters, establish what type of home addition you want to build. Maybe it is a kitchen addition, a family room addition, or an extra bedroom (or three)! Will the add-on be on the side or the back of your home? What about the design and style? Will it blend seamlessly with the existing structure?

Planning and Budget: Take Your Time to Find the Right Fit

When planning your home addition, it is important to think about what you want to achieve ultimately. How much space do you need right now and in the future? Do you want to dramatically alter the shape and structure of your house for extra space?

Talk to friends or neighbors who have previously added onto their homes. This approach will give you a good indication of what to expect during the process. Also, review websites and magazines to develop a clear idea of what you want.

During the planning is a crucial time to do the math. How much can you afford to spend on your home addition? Do you know how you are going to pay for it? Do you have extra budget if your requirements change as you go through the process?

Next, it is time to schedule interviews with a highly qualified design/build company to get their opinions about expanding your home. Because each professional will have a different approach, always ask them where and how they envision your addition, as well as how it will tie into your existing house.

Headed In the Right Direction

Not sure what type of home addition is the best for your particular situation?

Here are several ideas and factors to consider to help get your wheels spinning:

  • Try using different materials. One advantage of adding onto the back of a house is the opportunity to change up the building materials. Rather than working relentlessly to match an existing brick, for example, the addition can be made of wood.
  • Connect to your yard. Typically, one of the most frequent home additions is the type that attaches to the back of a house. Often, these are kitchen or family/great room additions.
  • Enjoy the outdoors with a multi-season room. An Arizona Room is one type of home addition that can enhance the use of your home and increase your living space in a relatively inexpensive way. With this addition, you do not have to worry about insulation or even drywall.
  • Make a fun space. If you have an unused space, make it a family room, game room or a media room. The advantage you get with having an unfinished space to convert is that you do not have to lay the foundation. The expenses will be lower than if you were starting from scratch. Keep in mind, though; you may need to get a permit to complete the existing space.
  • Raise the roof. Consider a second-floor addition if there is little opportunity to expand horizontally. This approach is particularly useful on a small lot and if the addition is significant.
  • Pay attention to size and scale. A big home addition can quickly overwhelm your existing home’s structure. Rather than build one large block, consider breaking it into pieces that relate to and do not overwhelm your current house.
  • Make a statement. In some cases, different is better. Take the time to determine how your home addition can express your personal style.

Why Move When You Can Improve?

At Republic West Remodeling, we offer the best options when it comes to adding-on to a house in the Phoenix and Scottsdale area. Contact us today to schedule your free, home addition consultation.

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