There are various things to consider when completing a custom home addition, and your architect or renovation contractor will be invaluable resources from start to finish. Here are a few miscellaneous things to think about before you start construction.
Does the Addition Fit the Neighborhood?
Spend some time walking or driving through the area to get an idea of the average size of homes. If you are adding a second story and a majority of homes in the area are only single-story, is it OK for your home to be so different? Is the addition going to increase the value of your home so much that it might be hard to sell?
Do You Want a Green Addition?
There are various ways to build a home addition being environmentally conscious. Consider using green or sustainable materials or installing energy-efficient appliances.
Did You Plan For Contingency Costs?
Even with a detailed quote from your renovation contractor, it’s a good idea to plan for unexpected costs. Sometimes there is just no way of knowing what you will find when you open up walls in a home, especially if they are older.
Are You Prepared For Weeks or Months of Construction?
Construction companies will do everything possible to complete the project in a timely manner, but they won’t sacrifice quality or safety in order to do so. The timeline for completion greatly depends on the scope of the project, but homeowners should be prepared to live in a home that is half construction zone for at least a few weeks.
