A Guide to Stress Free Home Additions

BY Zach Festini

Published: August 27, 2014 | 5 min read

One issue that some homeowners face is dealing with limited space to the point that it’s a lifestyle detriment. When this is the case, then it’s time to explore home addition options to expand the space and make a property more livable. Fortunately, there are a few possibilities that involve minimal hassle and won’t kill your budget. Sunroom A popular home addition is to install a sunroom to connect the indoors to the outdoors. This tends to be an effective solution to limited space because it doesn’t require any major remodeling to your home and it’s highly customizable. With a plethora of architectural designs, ceilings, floorings and windows, you can accent your existing property and create a beautiful, yet functional living space. At the most basic, a sunroom with limited features can be built for around $12,000. However, the national average according to Home Advisor is $49,829. How much you end up spending will really just depend on the size, features and how luxurious you want it to be. You should also know that a 2014 Cost vs. Value Report from Remodeling Magazine found that you’ll get about 51.7 percent of your investment back at resale if you decide to sell your home in the future. Prefabricated Guest House Another option that doesn’t involve any remodeling to your home is to purchase a prefab structure and place it on your property. This works great if you’ve got some extra land that’s not being used and offers guests a sense of privacy. It could also double as an extra bedroom, office or work space if you’re dealing with space constraints and don’t want to make serious modifications. One company that specializes in prefab structures is Wood-Tex Products, which offers several compact modular cabins. Another is Kanga Room Systems, which offers prefab studios, cottages and cabins. All of which have a nice aesthetic quality that would compliment almost any home. This type of guesthouse works great if you don’t want to worry about construction and most of the work is already done for you. The only thing you have to deal with is the site inspection and ensuring that everything meets your local building codes. Basement, Attic or Garage Conversion If your home has a basement, attic or garage with adequate space that’s not being utilized, there is always the option of converting it into a livable area. Generally speaking, it’s easier to convert a basement or garage because there is stable flooring and you don’t have to deal with installing a staircase. The amount of remodeling and overall work involved with this project can differ significantly depending upon the current setup. In some cases with a basement or garage, some thorough cleaning, fresh paint, carpeting/flooring and furnishings can provide a nice living space. Other times, it will be more complex and involve insulation, window installation, staircase installation, electrical wiring and adding plumbing to make it livable. Regardless, converting this type of space can be a rewarding project that capitalizes on unused space.

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