6 Steps to Take When Preparing to Expand Your Home Layout

Expanding the layout of your home is an enormous undertaking. The more square footage you add, the longer the project will take and the bigger the potential headaches. That's why homeowners should carefully consider what they want to do and how to go about remodeling projects of this size before they jump in.

Reasons to Expand Your Home

Carefully consider why you want more space in your home; this step is essential when determining how to expand your layout. Take a look at your entire home and consider how the space works. These are some of the most common reasons:

• You need room for your growing family.

• You like your neighborhood and don't want to move to find a larger home.

• You don't want to enter the tight housing market and compete with other potential buyers.

• You want a specialized space for work or leisure.

Determining the reason for expanding your home's layout is crucial in your discussions with architects and builders because they may have a more practical or economical way to accomplish your goals.

Six Steps to Expanding Your Home

For your project to be successful, consider the following essential steps.

1. Set a Budget

Some homeowners don't like to discuss budgets with architects and contractors who will work on expanding their homes, but by setting a budget, you will do yourself and those working for you a favor. Contractors will know your parameters and recommend appropriate additions. The ultimate cost of the project and what you want to spend are frequently two different things. Homeowners who are unrealistic about their budget won't have a successful renovation. Come up with a figure and keep a contingency of 10% over that amount to allow for unexpected problems and costs that may occur.

2. Where Will You Expand Your Living Space?

When expanding your living space, you'll have three basic choices: finishing your basement (if you have one), placing an additional story on your home or constructing an addition on the back or side of your home. The last option is the most popular and works well for sunrooms, enclosed porches or extended family rooms. However, if you value your yard space, you may want to consider a different option. Homeowners also need to be aware of local ordinances that may limit the percentage of the lot your house can occupy. Building a second story onto your home is a good option if you need more bedroom and bathroom space or live on a small lot. Finishing your basement is another option if you have a small lot. The advantage of expanding downward instead of upward is that you'll already have stairs in place, but beware, if your area has flooding problems, rooms below grade may be susceptible to water damage.

3. Hire an Architect or Designer

You'll need an architect or designer to bring your addition to life. Most will give you an idea of the total cost without incurring any upfront fees. A designer will also give you options you may have yet to consider. These professionals will also open your eyes to important facets of the project that will add to its success.

4. Interview Building Contractors

Many building contractors have architects or designers in-house, so you may be able to skip the previous step. Interview at least three to get a feel for their operating style, past projects, licensing, customer satisfaction, etc. If a contractor dodges your questions or you otherwise feel uncomfortable, move to the next one.

5. Make Sure the Project Meets Codes

Before you start expanding your living space, have a local building official review the plans to ensure they meet municipal, county and state requirements. Doing so early in the process will avoid costly changes that can blow your budget.

6. Talk to Your Neighbors

Before starting your addition, talk to your neighbors as a courtesy, especially if the extension will be visible from their property. Ask if they have any concerns about the building process, as various workers will be on your premises for several weeks. Relay any concerns to your contractors to accommodate your neighbors.

After the House Expansion is Completed

Inspect your contractors' work to ensure everything is built to your specifications and request changes where necessary. More importantly, have necessary inspections performed by municipal inspectors and make sure that the contractor makes any necessary modifications. Lastly, enjoy your new, expanded layout.

Written by Taylor McKnight, Author for Watson Bowman Acme