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Building an addition on a home can be a costly and an involved process but it can also be the best option if you need extra space and don't wish to change homes and neighbourhoods. Whether you are planning to expand your kitchen, add an extra bedroom or an entire second story, all renovations, large and small, involve a number of important considerations. By keeping these points in mind and consulting professionals, you may save yourself time and money.
Consider the purpose of the room and your requirements. For example, if you are adding an office, you may want to have a quiet room overlooking the backyard rather than the street. If you are planning a bedroom for a new baby, consider what use you may find for the room when your children have grown. Perhaps you hope to start a B&B or rent out a suite to a student. In either case, it would be practical to include a bathroom in the room.
What is the traffic flow between the addition and the rest of your home? A well-planned traffic flow will make the most efficient use of space. Hallways are generally wasted space; careful configuration of doors and entryways can avoid long hallways. Another consideration is the distance between the new addition and key rooms in your home. For example, if you are building an office and you are a parent who is working at home, you may want the office to be placed near the child's room or the kitchen.
Consider the access to your property for heavy equipment such as bulldozers and backhoes. A professional renovator should take a close look at your property to determine if fences, playground equipment or other obstacles will have to be removed first. You may also need to cut down trees or bushes to make way for equipment. The cost of planting new grass and landscaping after construction should be factored into your renovation budget.
New work will have to comply with provincial building codes as well as local bylaws and zoning requirements. Municipal zoning by-laws can regulate the height of your home, the distance of your home from the road, the ratio of window to wall area, etc. A professional home renovator should be able to ensure that your renovation complies with the various regulations. [Return to Homeowners Guide]
© Copyright 2006 Sutton Group Financial Services Ltd. |
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