We are planning an addition, in law suite...where to begin???

Terri
by Terri
  4 answers
  • Yamini M Yamini M on Mar 19, 2011
    Drawings and Permits are where you need to begin first. Where is the in- law suite? if it is in the basement you need to have an emergency exit window installed if you dont already have one. This may require an architect to stamp off on the drawings since it involves structurally adding something to the existing. Call you building department to find out what their code says about stamping. After the drawings are done, go over it and make sure all specifications are as per your requirements. Get quotes from 3-4 contractors who have done similar jobs Talk to the previous homeowners and ask their opinions on the contractors work, Budget is very important make sure you keep this in mind and dont be tempted to upgrade on material that is not neccessary.
  • Stephen B Stephen B on Mar 19, 2011
    Terry, The FIRST question I ask ALL prospective clients is whether or not they have established a budget. Anyone who is building anything has a number in mind that they cannot exceed. When establishing that budgetary number, keep in mind that there are what are referred to as "hard" and "soft" costs involved. Most folks only consider the cost of the structure itself, i.e., "hard" cost. The cost of plans, permits, school and sewer connection fees must also be considered. They are some of the soft costs. (here in San Diego, for example, the school fees can be quite shocking as compared to a sewer fee) Once you have a budget, most competent builders can give you an approximate cost per square foot for a simple structure. Remember that that square foot estimate is just that, an estimate. The actual cost will be based on the final, approved plans.
  • Carl Peters Jr. Carl Peters Jr. on Mar 20, 2011
    When adding on to your home, one of the first steps is to assess your needs. Use the proposed space efficiently when creating the layout. An architect will transpire your ideas to paper while accounting for all the necessary components that go into an addition. While there are limits to how large the addition can be, where weight bearing walls are located, etc., the new rooms should be designed with the needs of the homeowner in mind.
  • RemodelOrMove.com RemodelOrMove.com on Nov 28, 2011
    First thing to consider are you goals and your options. Here are just a few questions that should be answered. Is the inlaw suite for occasional use, daily use. Is it for your family, guests or renters. Are you making the addition purely for your own quality of life? As an investment and you expect a substantial return or a bit of both? Is moving to a home with all of the features you need an option? The website www.remodelormove.com has a good tool to help you consider your options. If you have all your goals figured out you can start working on a basic design and budget. I always encourage homeowners to spend time working out their own design. They may not be very good at it - and may never come up with the best design but by trying most get a better sense of what they want and what they do not like. On the budget it is important to be realistic about the cost and also understand there isnt "a" price for a remodel. Different contractors will charge difference amounts for the same remodel based on their business style. And if you do some of the work yourself that will be influence the price as well.