| "> | | | | expansion? Who will be moving in? Before you |
| Households are getting more crowded. Kids are | | | | design, it's critical to decide whether it's for additional |
| moving back home and parents are moving in with | | | | close family members, parents that want privacy, or |
| their children. Because of this, something has to give. | | | | even renters that want their own entrance. |
| If you're contemplating an expansion, you have | | | | Second Story Addition Best Practices |
| options. Adding rooms and square footage to your | | | | This is a home improvement that definitely requires |
| home can be accomplished by finishing a basement, | | | | permits. Never attempt this without going through |
| expanding the home horizontally with additional | | | | the proper channels and using the right professionals. |
| foundation, or going up! Let's talk about the option of | | | | Yes, it can be a do-it-yourself project but you're |
| adding a second story to your home. Is it wise? Will | | | | going to need help. |
| it add value and appeal? | | | | Here are my best practice suggestions: |
| Before You Decide on Your Home Addition Strategy | | | | - Use an Architect or Designer: This will give you the |
| Know your goal. Being clear about what it is you're | | | | best chance to enhance and increase your homes |
| after will guide your decisions. A good home building | | | | value and address structural issues. |
| coach can be a valuable contact for you. This | | | | - Match Materials & Home Styles: You can really |
| industry professional will provide invaluable assistance | | | | make a statement with your second story addition. |
| and point out potential issues such as: | | | | Be sure your architect/designer knows what you're |
| - Structural Integrity: Adding a second story puts | | | | after. |
| more weight on the walls and the foundation. This | | | | - Upgrade the Rest of Home: Take the opportunity |
| may require additional shoring up of the structural | | | | to replace old windows, add insulation, and increase |
| components at added cost. | | | | the energy efficiency of your home. |
| - Placement & Displacement: Where will the | | | | Keep Things in Perspective |
| second story be added? The placement of the | | | | I'm all for home renovations and additions. Despite |
| addition can impact your lifestyle during construction. | | | | the current real estate market and the economic |
| Where will you live for a few weeks or months? | | | | climate, there is value in upgrading our homes. We |
| How will you handle the displacement? | | | | may not benefit from immediate home value |
| - Matching the Neighborhood: To maximize your | | | | appreciation, but we can and should meet our needs |
| home's value, you never want to overbuild. The best | | | | for extra space and enhanced living. |
| scenario is to stay under the size and square footage | | | | Keep your perspective. Meet the needs you have |
| of the largest homes in the neighborhood. | | | | today with an eye towards future rebounding values |
| - Friendlies or Unfriendlies: Who will be living in the | | | | and you'll be fine. |