Many people consider building an addition to their home, but is an extra room really worth the time and effort put into it, not to mention the money? Ask Dan Schaefer. As owner of Providence Renovation, LLC, a residential and commercial restoration and remodeling company based in Phoenix, he has all the answers.
When I work with people who are considering putting on an addition to their home, I tell them that the most inexpensive room to add is one that is under the existing roof. That is the most economical way. That can be done by simply building a room where there already is a large garage, a garage that usually can easily be converted into livable space.
Occasionally people have attics in this area, but that’s not common. Attics and basements are not common in Arizona as that is a whole other area that we rarely delve into here. So converting an attic or a basement into additional living space is not usually an option.
Create a Budget
The first thing to do is create a budget based on value. That means finding out exactly what the room is to be valued at to make sure the cost will not exceed the value. I point people to a website called Zillow.com. There they can find like properties and make a comparison, analyzing the price per square foot value of their home.
After that, I always start with utility. People need to be sure the room is well-functioning. Considerations you should think about include: Is there adequate air flow, meaning air conditioning and heating? Is there adequate light, meaning whether there is natural and/or artificial lighting? Do all rooms meet city codes? For instance, a bedroom in most cities needs an escape route through a window. So check with your local codes to find out more about city codes when it comes to new rooms.
Another issue to consider is the cost-effectiveness of adding a room that needs plumbing, such as a bathroom or a kitchen. The expense for these rooms may vary depending on the proximity of the water supply and the sewer line. Ceiling height is also a consideration, as minimum ceiling height in most states is seven feet.
Finally, consider how much enjoyment you will get out of the room. If you will lose a bit of money from adding a hobby room yet gain decades of enjoyment from it, it’s worth the money. Think about how much an additional room will add to the pleasure you get from your home, and go for it!
