Home Renovation Series, Part 3: Room Additions

This is the third post in our new series of home renovation articles. We’ll discuss the pros, cons, hows, and whys of popular reno projects. In this post, we’ll discuss adding on a single room or a master suite. Other additions, such as adding a second story, converting an attic bedroom, or adding a deck, will be discussed in separate posts.

Have you outgrown your house, but are you loathe to go real estate shopping? Have you found the perfect location, but not the perfect master suite? That’s when single-room home additions (or suites) come in handy.

What It’s Take to Complete a Room Addition?
Room additions mean different things to different people. You can add on a sunroom or a laundry room, a family room or a closet. The key point is being totally clear on the purpose of the room you’re adding. Since additions are often quite expensive, it pays to be absolutely certain before work begins.

Popular additions include sunrooms, master suites, bathrooms, home offices/dens, and family rooms. These all have one thing in common: they require the services of a professional (unless you happen to be at a professional skill level yourself). For the most part, every room addition will require some engineering or architectural work, plus electrical systems and heating and ventilation. Some also need plumbing installed – all of which must meet code and be safe.

How Much Will My Room Addition Cost?
According to Remodeling ’s 2013 Cost vs. Value Report, a mid-range family room addition averages about $79,000; a sunroom costs $72,000; and a master suite can set you back $100,000 or more. However, these are averages; the cost varies between regions and even between projects.

Why Should I Plan an Addition to My House?
Adding space to your house is always a good idea from a sell-real-estate perspective. If your family is growing, that additional space can be a lifesaver. Returns on room additions can vary from 63% to 72%, but there’s no way to put a price on the convenience of having your home just as you need it.

image:  John Wollwerth, Shutterstock

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