Second Story Home Additions - Add Equity & Visual Appeal

Add Equity & Visual Appeal
 
By Mel Inglima -
   
Households are getting more crowded. Kids are moving back home and parents are moving in with their children. Because of this, something has to give.

If you're contemplating an expansion, you have options. Adding rooms and square footage to your home can be accomplished by finishing a basement, expanding the home horizontally with additional foundation, or going up! Let's talk about the option of adding a second story to your home. Is it wise? Will it add value and appeal?

Before You Decide on Your Home Addition Strategy

Know your goal. Being clear about what it is you're after will guide your decisions. A good home building coach can be a valuable contact for you. This industry professional will provide invaluable assistance and point out potential issues such as:


Structural Integrity: Adding a second story puts more weight on the walls and the foundation. This may require additional shoring up of the structural components at added cost.
Placement & Displacement: Where will the second story be added? The placement of the addition can impact your lifestyle during construction. Where will you live for a few weeks or months? How will you handle the displacement?
Matching the Neighborhood: To maximize your home's value, you never want to overbuild. The best scenario is to stay under the size and square footage of the largest homes in the neighborhood.
Friendlies or Unfriendlies: Who will be living in the expansion? Who will be moving in? Before you design, it's critical to decide whether it's for additional close family members, parents that want privacy, or even renters that want their own entrance.
Second Story Addition Best Practices

This is a home improvement that definitely requires permits. Never attempt this without going through the proper channels and using the right professionals. Yes, it can be a do-it-yourself project but you're going to need help.

Here are my best practice suggestions:


Use an Architect or Designer: This will give you the best chance to enhance and increase your homes value and address structural issues.
Match Materials & Home Styles: You can really make a statement with your second story addition. Be sure your architect/designer knows what you're after.
Upgrade the Rest of Home: Take the opportunity to replace old windows, add insulation, and increase the energy efficiency of your home.
Keep Things in Perspective

I'm all for home renovations and additions. Despite the current real estate market and the economic climate, there is value in upgrading our homes. We may not benefit from immediate home value appreciation, but we can and should meet our needs for extra space and enhanced living.

Keep your perspective. Meet the needs you have today with an eye towards future rebounding values and you'll be fine.

Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Mel_Inglima

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