Tips for Addition Planning
Addition planning is a huge undertaking and there is a lot to consider. We have lots of additional great articles here in the newsroom related to this topic, I thought we should add another one with five specific suggestions. These suggestions are from my point of view and 20+ years in remodeling.
Research your Potential Partners
When planning a home renovation you should always work with a company you are comfortable with, as well as a team you feel like you will be able to communicate well with. In our article How Do I Select My Remodeling Team? We talk about some steps you can take to make sure you are choosing the right contractor for your project. Be sure to get copies of all the licenses and insurance including:
- Home Improvement Contractor License
- Worker Compensation and General Liability Certificate
- Construction Supervisor License
Learn how to select your remodeling team: here.
Check with Your Town to Determine Project Viability
You can always call your town’s building department (sometimes called inspectional services) directly if you have a question about your project’s specific permitting requirements. Setbacks, zoning, and conservation are just a few of the items you might need to address with the town. In our article, Why do I Need a Plot Plan? We discuss some of these items further.
Learn about setbacks, zoning, and conservation: here.
What will make your lifestyle better?
Think about why you want to do this project, it is so important to know your why! What must be true for the remodel to be successful for you? What features do you want to add?
Think about where you want to splurge and where are you okay with more budget-friendly suggestions. This will all help your team (be that designer, architect, or contractor) tailor your designs and selections to your specific needs.
Plan for the Process
Remodeling is an emotional roller coaster. Check out our article about Understanding the Remodeling Emotional Roller Coaster. There are so many moving parts during remodeling, and things will be different every time your team works on a new project. Things you need to think about as you are planning an addition may include: relocating, budgeting, and a contingency fund.
Where will go you?
During some additions and remodels, homeowners cannot live in their homes. Whether that be for safety reasons, comfort reasons, or just homeowner preference. It’s important to develop a plan for where you will stay during renovations. Sometimes, homeowners love to plan their remodels around vacations when they know they will be away from their homes.
Budgeting
Budgeting is probably one of the hardest parts of the planning- both for you and your team. The last few years have proved immensely difficult, but by listing what your wants and must-haves are, we will help you get started. Talk with your team and let them know your available funds for the project and what areas you may be willing to make concessions. But remember that you need to set aside funds for the unexpected – be that changes you make, the town requires, or when the unexpected is found.
Learn about contingency funds and why they are so important to the remodeling process: here.
Choosing the right team will set you up for success during your remodeling project, but this decision can be the hardest part of the whole process. Knowing what to look for and what to ask often comes too late, hindsight is 20/20 after all. Hopefully, some of these suggestions and links to our other articles will help you get your planning started in the right direction.
Our Team at Almar is always here to help guide you through the process. Please reach out today to start the process with our team, 781-826-2577.
