How to Expand Your House: Everything You Need to Know

If you are like most homeowners, you will want to expand your house at some point. Maybe you need more space for a growing family, or perhaps you just want to update your home with a new addition. Whatever the reason, expanding your house can be a big project – but it is also a very rewarding one. 

[Credit]

What Do You Want?

The first step in any expansion project is deciding what you want to add and how much space you need. Make sure you have a clear vision of how much space you want and what features are most important to you. For example, if you’re expanding so that there’s room for an extra bedroom or office area, then make sure those rooms will fit before getting started on any other parts of the project, such as plumbing upgrades or electrical work. If you’re not sure where to start, there are plenty of online resources that can help. Once you have an idea of what you want, sketch out some plans and get estimates from contractors.

Different Options

Adding onto an existing house is generally the cheapest and quickest option, but it can be cramped and awkward if done improperly. Building a new house next door is a more expensive option, allowing you to create a new look and feel for your family. Building up is another excellent option that can allow you to add an extra bedroom or office without taking up precious yard space.

Legalities, Permits, and Inspections 

Building permits, health inspections, and other legal requirements may be necessary when expanding your home. The rules vary from state to state and even city to city, so ensure you know what’s required for the expansion project to go smoothly.

Contractors or Architects

If money is no object and time isn’t an issue, professional architects are happy to design something exceptional just for you. Or, if cost is an obstacle, but getting things done quickly matters more than anything else, hiring a team of contractors will get the job done without any hassle on your end.

DIY

If you’re an aspiring DIYer, you can save money by doing some of the work yourself and hiring subcontractors for specialty jobs like electrical or plumbing. If you don’t have much experience in construction projects but want to give it a shot, there are plenty of online resources that will teach everything from building permits to framing drywall.

Budgeting and Planning

When embarking upon such a project, keep all these things in mind – budgeting wisely beforehand; choosing whether or not to hire professionals or do as much work yourself (a combination is always possible); researching local regulations pertaining specifically to what needs to be done with regard how big/tall etcetera any new structure may be built at least as compared to what’s already there on site so as not run afoul of any zoning ordinances hereabouts; being willing put in some sweat equity yourself if that’s what it takes to get things done right.

Picture To Reality 

After all the planning has been done, it’s time for the fun part – picking out paint colors, furniture, and accessories! Make sure to take your time at this stage and enjoy dreaming up the perfect new space for your home.

Benefits of Expanding 

One of the biggest benefits of expanding your house is gaining more space. This can be incredibly helpful if your family has outgrown your current home. With more space, you can all have your own bedrooms and bathrooms. You can also create a larger living area, which is perfect for gatherings or parties. Additionally, having more space can make your home feel more comfortable and inviting.

Update Your Home’s Appearance 

Another benefit of expansion is that it can update your home’s appearance. If you are tired of your current home’s look, adding on to it can give it a fresh new feel. For example, you can choose to add on to the existing structure of your home or go with a completely new design. Either way, an addition will make your home look more modern and up-to-date.

[Credit]

Increase Value 

Finally, adding to your house can also increase its resale value. If you are thinking about selling in the future, having a larger home can make it more appealing to potential buyers. If this is your end goal, run the possible expansions by a professional in real estate like FlashHouse to get their opinion of how much your value can possibly increase.