by Tara Knudson

Created on: June 16, 2008   Last Updated: June 23, 2008

A home addition is an excellent way to add value to your home. Its a big undertaking, but by choosing a competent and professional contractor, and making a solid plan, you'll find the process as painless as possible.

It today's home markets buyers and home evaluators are more savvy than ever, and they appreciate a home addition that is designed to look like its always been a part of the original home. Numerous additions can be added to a house over it's lifetime as long as the overall look, feel & layout of the home is considered each time.

Its important to make sure that the new addition feels like it belongs when you're inside the home, and its doubly important to make sure the outside looks cohesive as well. Your professional contractor will be able to help you find exterior finishes, window selections, and other elements like roofing and doors that will be consistent with the elements already in place.

Before you spend a penny, discuss your dreams in detail with your professional contractor. Make sure that what you wish for is feasible, that you're clear on what will be done, when, and for what price. A professional contractor that specializes in remodeling houses will be able to give you a detailed quote withing 10% of your final cost. Don't be afraid to get more than one professional contractor to provide a quote, and once you've made the choice you should feel comfortable discussing your concerns at each step.

If you're adding an addition to a living area, always consider adding another bathroom. Homes can't have too many bathrooms, and if you're considering selling your home you'll find every extra bathroom will add thousands to the price you're able to ask.

Whether you're adding a craft room, a two-story addition, or expanding a kitchen or bathroom, you'll want to make sure that you take into account heating, ventilation, and insulation. Even if the rest of your house hasn't maximized energy efficiency, adding an addition is a great opportunity to make energy efficient choices that will limit your heating & cooling costs, and your footprint on the planet.

Once work begins you'll feel like you've been thrown into chaos, but the better your plan, the better and quicker you'll reach completion, and the happier you'll be with your bigger, more beautiful, more valuable home.

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