Outgrowing your existing home? There are several things to consider when contemplating an addition. Here are some tips on how to get started with the process.

Determine a Budget – If you’ve never been through a home renovation before, it will be a challenge to pull a budget out of thin air. Do some homework for your area, check average “per square foot” construction costs. Also, know that these prices are just an average. Every General Contractor will bring their own process and pricing to the table. Always add in a contingency amount above what you think the project will cost. A good average for your contingency will be 10-15% of the project cost. There is no way to determine what your contractor will find during the construction of your addition. A good Design Build Firm and architect will also help guide you in budget preparation. Which takes you to the next step…

Work with a Design Build Team or Hire an Architect – This phase; and hiring a contractor, are the two most important phases of your project. Before meeting with the Design Build Firm and architect, it’s a good idea to get your thoughts on paper – whether that’s a list of “must haves” or a sketch of how you see the addition working out, any preliminary work done on your behalf will assist with your initial meeting. In addition, finding a Design Build Firm and architect that understands your vision will make your planning and drawing process much easier on you and the Design Build Firm and architect. It is important to have an idea of what you are looking for when adding on to your home.

Hire a General Contractor – There are many things important when considering who you will hire to perform the work on your addition. Here is a list of questions to ask those who are supplying you with an estimate:
Can you provide proof of state license and insurance?
What is the project schedule?
Who will be on site everyday?
How will my property be protected?
How will communication be handled?
Are there any concerns about the project?
What are the costs associated with the job?
A good Design Build firm and/or architect will also help guide you in budget preparation.