Adding An Addition Onto Your House: What You Need To Know

Whichever avenue you choose, make sure you talk to several contractors for their ideas and estimates before any work begins. Also make sure they’re insured, licensed and bonded to avoid any liability, tax or quality issues.

How Much Does a Home Addition Cost to Build?

Your visions of extra living space, another bathroom, or a second-floor addition can come to life with a home addition project supervised by a general contractor. Home addition costs can quickly soar beyond the average price of $46,498, but there are many ways to save money without sacrificing the design you want.

By Brie Greenhalgh | Updated Jul 29, 2022 4:03 PM

We may earn revenue from the products available on this page and participate in affiliate programs.

• Typical Range: $20,835 to $72,552
• National Average: $46,498

Ready to add some space to your house? Home additions are a popular way to maximize an existing property by adding new rooms to the floor plan. You could build another bathroom, bedroom, living space, garage, or even an entire apartment. Each kind of room comes with its own complexity, so home addition costs have a wide range of prices: $20,835 to $72,552, or an average of $46,498. The total price depends on the kind of space you’re adding, the size, complexity, materials, and labor. Home additions make a great investment in your home, and you can often expect a significant return on your investment. If you’re committed to adding on to your house, but you’re wondering about home addition costs, then read on for the cost of home additions—and how to save money.

A top-rated remodeling pro can help. Get free, no-commitment estimates from experts near you.

Factors in Calculating Home Addition Cost

Home additions typically cost more than a single-room remodel or renovation since there are more factors to consider, particularly if you’re adding more than a single room’s worth of space. If you add space on the ground floor, contractors will need to add a new foundation plus all the standard building materials from wood to shingles. While some additions can be a simple add-on to the back of the house, others are much more complex and require an architect to ensure the existing home doesn’t lose structural integrity. Knowing the location and style of addition you want to add will help guide the first steps of the budgeting process.

Size and Scope of the Home Addition

As is typical for any construction project, much of the cost is determined by the total size. The bigger the space, the higher the price. According to HomeAdvisor, home additions cost $80 to $200 per square foot. Adding a spare room is a common project, and the average cost ranges from $32,000 to $80,000 for a 20-foot by 20-foot room, with the higher end including more customization or luxury fixtures.

Labor and Permits

There’s no way around most labor costs on a large project like a home addition. They tend to make up 30 to 50 percent of the total price. You’ll be paying for skilled laborers like electricians, roofers, siding contractors, drywallers, and painters, depending on the type of space being built. Additionally, home additions are significant projects that require building permits from local authorities. Obtaining a permit will be the first step a general contractor takes to make sure the project can proceed as planned. Expect to pay between $400 and $1,850 for permits.

A top-rated remodeling pro can help. Get free, no-commitment estimates from experts near you.

Materials

The range of materials used for home construction is vast: concrete, wood framing, drywall, paint, electrical wiring, ductwork, roofing materials, plumbing, and more. Beyond these basic materials, include any customizations and accents like flooring, exposed beams, lighting, fixtures, windows, and doors into your budget. The cost to build a garage will also be different since you may need fewer common materials for an unfinished garage but then have to include a big-ticket item like an automatic garage door. Each material comes with an associated cost that is based on current market prices for the region.

Geographic Location

Home construction costs vary from state to state and city to city. Homes with the same square footage could have a valuation discrepancy of millions of dollars in some coastal urban areas compared to others cities farther inland. Home addition costs will be reflected by the home’s current valuation and the cost of labor and materials in the region. A booming construction market tends to push prices higher, too.

Building Up vs. Building Out

There are two directions you can build when adding onto a house: up or out. Building up tends to be less expensive and could be your only option on a smaller property. If you have an existing garage, building on top of it is more economical since the foundation is typically built to withstand more weight. Building out is often more expensive since a new foundation will need to be laid, and there may be structural issues to address to make sure the roofline and walls remain strong with the new addition. Talk with your contractor about which option works best for the property and budget.

Site Preparation, Excavation, Demolition

No matter where you build the add-on, the contractor has to prepare the site for new construction. This could include demolishing part of the roof or house, landscaping, or concrete that’s already on the ground. It costs $1,276 to $5,024 to prepare a site for new construction.

Architectural Services

If you’re wondering, “How much does it cost to build a garage?” then be sure to also factor in an architect’s services. Adding a significant structure to your house should look intentional and match the current style and design to maximize ROI (return on investment) and curb appeal. For $2,020 to $8,400, an architect can draft an updated blueprint that includes all structural considerations and the aesthetics of the home addition. Permit approval will also require these blueprints.

A top-rated remodeling pro can help. Get free, no-commitment estimates from experts near you.

Contractor Services

Hiring a general contractor may seem daunting and expensive, but the peace of mind knowing they are capable of handling a complex project is worth it. General contractors usually cost $150 per hour, and their total cost can add up to approximately 10 to 30 percent of the final bill. General contractors will obtain permits, hire and coordinate subcontractors, purchase materials, and ensure the job proceeds on schedule.

Cleanup

Home additions generate quite a mess despite efforts to minimize the dirt and debris. As part of the construction process, the contractor should include time and effort for cleaning up the project. This should consist of hauling away any debris or extra materials and cleaning up dirt, dust, and debris from the floors, walls, counters, and windows. It usually costs $550 for a post-construction cleanup.

Additional Costs and Considerations

Most of the additional costs for home additions are made up of essential materials. The difference in total price will be based on how much of each material is required for the size of the addition, as well as the quality of the material.

Foundation Materials and Installation

Adding a foundation for a home addition is a critical first step that can’t be skipped if building out. On average, the materials will cost $400 to $700 for 100 square feet, but the installation will cost $4,000 to $12,000. Much of these costs will be based on the size of the foundation. To find out how much it is to build a garage, talk with a garage contractor to find out if you’ll need to reinforce the concrete or build it thicker for your vehicles.

Roof Framing and Materials

A waterproof roof makes for a livable space that protects from the weather, so don’t skimp on these materials. Roof framing costs $700 to $900, and roof materials cost $500 to $5,000 for 100 square feet. You’ll want to use the same material as your existing roof, with the closest color match possible. Adding shingles will cost between $80 to $100 per square foot, but steel roofing costs between $75 and $350 per square (10 feet by 10 feet).

Siding and Trim

Many homes use vinyl siding to complete their exterior with a uniform look, so if your house has siding, you’ll need to budget for adding siding to the new construction. Vinyl siding averages $4 per square foot, and the trim costs $2 to $5 per square foot.

Drywall Ceiling and Walls

While in some climates you could install an unfinished garage without drywall, every other home addition will require drywall to cover up the insulation and electrical wiring and create the dividing walls between other rooms. To drywall 100 square feet, expect to pay $400 to $600. It costs about $1 to $3 per square foot to install drywall on the ceiling and walls.

Insulation

Any structure considered a habitable space (not a garage) is required to have insulation. The type and thickness requirements are based on local building codes that a contractor will know. It costs $2 per square foot to install insulation. Adding more or thicker insulation will cost more, and using blow-in insulation typically costs at least $2.88 per square foot.

Doors and Windows

Adding natural light is a common preference when adding to a house—but it comes at a cost. Windows are a fast way to increase the cost of an addition, whether by their size or number. At a minimum, it costs $235 to install a window, but you could spend up to $2,500 for a customized window. Doors typically cost $1,000 to install, but hollow interior doors are less expensive than heavy exterior doors or glass doors. In both cases, adding a heavy frame or molding will add cost as well.

Electrical

Electrical wiring is essential for all home additions to make sure you have light and power for all those electronics. An electrician can wire the room to spec for a rate of $40 to $100 per hour. They’ll make sure the house is built to code to pass inspection when the construction is complete.

Flooring

Whether you’re considering the cost to add a bathroom or a bedroom, you’ll need to decide on the type of flooring you want to install. Linoleum and vinyl are the least expensive options, but you could also choose tile, carpet, or hardwood floors. The price ranges widely from $3 to $20 per square foot, so choose the option that fits your budget.

Plumbing

You might not need to install plumbing if you’re only adding on a bedroom or office; however, bathrooms, kitchens, and in-law apartments will need some plumbing installed to be fully functional. Plumbers typically charge $45 to $200 per hour to install plumbing and fixtures for a bathroom or kitchen.

HVAC

Adding an HVAC system (or extension from an existing system) is necessary for habitable spaces. A garage may not need heating and air conditioning, but a bedroom will. Expect to pay around $1,150 to install new ductwork and vents for an add-on, but that price will increase if you need to add a new zone to the system to accommodate a significant addition.

Landscaping

After the construction is done, you’ll need to turn your attention to the landscaping around the addition. Heavy equipment may have damaged more of the grass than expected, so consider replacing it with new sod to freshen up the space. Otherwise, factor in the cost to update the new area to match the existing landscaping with bushes, trees, or other features. Landscaping a new area could cost between $500 and $2,500.

Home Addition Cost: Types of Home Additions

Choosing to add on to a house doesn’t have to be limited to a garage or bathroom. If your budget allows, you could expand the home’s footprint with functional and emotionally satisfying spaces ranging from bedrooms to sunrooms to family rooms. These less common options are completely doable and often solve the problem some homeowners have when they cannot find a new, larger house in their desired neighborhood. If you have the space, talk with a contractor about the associated costs of adding on any of the following types of additions.

A top-rated remodeling pro can help. Get free, no-commitment estimates from experts near you.

Room Addition

Most homeowners are looking to add an extra one or two rooms to their house. This can be done on the ground level or the second floor. Room addition costs mainly depend on the kind of room being installed.

• Bedroom: A 10-foot by 12-foot bedroom costs $9,600 to $24,000 to build or an average of $80 to $200 per square foot. It costs less than a room that requires plumbing, but you’ll still need to add HVAC ductwork and finish work.
• Bathroom: Bathrooms can quickly surpass a budget if you have visions of a spacious, spa-like interior. High-end fixtures are the fastest way to increase the cost of a bathroom. You’ll pay between $20,000 and $90,000 to build a new bathroom, but consult with a contractor to determine how much does it cost to add a bathroom for your specific space.
• Sunroom: In sunny regions, adding a sunroom is a popular option that adds style and helps blend indoors and outdoors. You could build an all-glass or partial-glass sunroom, so the costs range from $25,000 to $80,000. Sunrooms typically don’t include any heating, so you’ll save on HVAC costs. Alternatively, you could purchase a prefabricated sunroom for $11,000.
• Four-season room: If having a sunroom all year makes you excited, then plan to budget for a sunroom that includes heat during the colder months. This feature will push the price to the higher end of the $25,000 to $80,000 spectrum, with an average of $300 per square foot in some cases.
• Family room: Creating a larger space for friends and family to gather is increasingly popular. When an outdoor deck isn’t an option due to frequent bad weather, opt to build a new or expanded family room. An 18-foot by 12-foot expansion will cost $17,300 to $43,200, with the higher end including custom built-in cabinets or high-end flooring.
• Kitchen: If your kitchen is too cramped, then adding more space can be helpful. Due to the complexity of the plumbing and electrical requirements, kitchen additions are more costly: $48,000 to $95,000 for 200 square feet.
• Laundry room: Design inspirations have made adding a laundry room a top option for home additions in recent years. You could add a new, stylish, functional laundry room for $5,000 to $7,000 for a space that helps you enjoy this chore.
• Home theater: For cinephiles, adding a home theater might top the wish list. This type of room typically goes in a basement, but extra soundproofing measures will be taken for an additional cost if it needs to be added on the ground level. Obtain a quote to know where your project would fall within the $20,000 to $70,000 range.

Adding a Second Story

When a homeowner decides to add a second story, it’s usually to add more than a single room—adding just a single room on top of a house would look odd. Adding a second story costs $100 to $300 per square foot but could run up to $500 for complex jobs that require more shoring up of the original house. It’s common for second-floor additions to cost $150,000 to $200,000 for an additional 1,000 square feet of space.

A top-rated remodeling pro can help. Get free, no-commitment estimates from experts near you.

Home Extension Costs

In some cases, you may only need to do a home extension to get the extra space you need. These jobs range from garages and balconies to in-law suites and mudrooms.

• Garage: If it’s time to protect your cars or add more storage for outdoor equipment, you can expect to pay $23,900 or $49 per square foot for a 2-car garage. An enclosed garage will significantly increase your home value. Adding a detached garage without heating or air costs around $9,000 to $12,000.
• In-law suite: An in-law suite could range from a simple bedroom to a fully functioning studio apartment–style suite, depending on local building codes. The simple bedroom option costs $44,000, but a detached, fully independent, plumbed suite costs at least $100,000.
• Front porch: Porch options run from simple step expansions to full wrap-around verandas. Once you decide on the purpose of the porch, whether it’s functional or for entertainment, you can estimate the costs between $12,000 and $30,000.
• Modular addition: If you own a modular home, be aware that adding on is not always possible if the foundation can’t support it. But it’s possible to have a room addition prefabricated and added for a cost of $20,000 to $30,000. Speak with a contractor to learn which option is feasible for you.
• Bump-out: A bump-out is a small extension of an existing room. The cost depends on the house’s existing structure and materials, but the average cost is $4,000 to $9,000.
• Mudroom: A coat closet at the front door doesn’t seem to do the trick for larger families, so you might want to add a mudroom extension. For 36 extra square feet, you could pay $3,600 to $7,200 for a small room with closets, a door, and easy-to-clean flooring.
• Cantilever: If you’re adding a second floor to your house and want a larger footprint, you may need to cantilever the upper floor. This extends the upper footprint beyond the lower footprint by adding proper joists or even shoring it up with beams on the exterior. A cantilever addition costs $15,000 to $25,000 on average.
• Balcony: If space on the ground is at a premium—or you just want your own private outdoor space—a balcony is a fast way to gain an outdoor living area. A contractor can securely build a balcony suspended off an upper floor for $4,000 to $9,000.

Attic Conversion

Converting an open attic to a usable living area costs about as much as adding a new room, mostly to make sure there’s proper insulation, ventilation, light, and egress options. You can expect to pay between $40,000 and $50,000 for attic addition or conversion—they’re basically the same thing.

Benefits of a Home Addition

It’s a toss-up to decide where to spend your hard-earned money sometimes. If buying a new house isn’t an option, but you need extra space, then doing a home addition is a great solution. Home addition costs are well spent when improving and expanding a home. Here are several popular reasons to add to your home that will get you excited for this project.

A top-rated remodeling pro can help. Get free, no-commitment estimates from experts near you.

More Space

This is likely the number one reason homeowners spend money on home additions. More space is a considerable benefit for growing families, holding large gatherings, or adding storage or living space. Adding only a few feet of space to a cramped bedroom can help couples regain their own space. Expanded living rooms offer more room for families and friends to gather for important events. More space allows for you to adhere to your lifestyle values.

Added Property Value

Many household construction projects increase your property value—the question is by how much. No project offers a dollar-for-dollar return, which is why it’s wise to avoid extravagant upgrades that won’t make a significant difference. However, some projects can boost your property value. A master suite addition returns 63 percent, a bathroom returns 53 percent, and a second-floor addition returns 65 percent. You could speak with a real estate agent or home appraiser to get an idea about which additions and features will best help your property value.

Added Luxury

If your bathroom is as small and basic as it gets, bumping out your bathroom could be a huge benefit that adds spacious luxury to an intimate area. Having a little extra room to take care of your personal needs is fast becoming necessary to appeal to future home buyers. Additionally, expanding a kitchen to add more appliances or counter space is another way to make a common living area appear more luxurious.

More Storage

Building a garage offers two immediate benefits: protection for your vehicles and extra storage space. If you already have a garage but still need extra storage space, bumping out a larger area for a laundry room and mudroom could be a perfect idea. With built-in cabinets and closets, you’ll have plenty of space to store outdoor items or seasonal clothing and bedding.

A top-rated remodeling pro can help. Get free, no-commitment estimates from experts near you.

Moving Alternative

Almost every homeowner dreads the moving process simply because of the tremendous hassle of packing, moving, and then unpacking your life’s possessions. There’s also the possibility that you cannot find a house that suits your needs in the area you specifically want to raise your family. Choosing to build an addition on your home solves all of those problems—if you have space—and it’s usually cheaper than buying a new house.

Home Addition Cost: DIY vs. Hiring a Professional

Home additions aren’t much easier than building a home in the sense that each part of the complex construction process is involved—just on a smaller scale. Since home addition costs can quickly become overwhelming, it can be tempting to wonder if you can do at least some of the work on your own. You could safely tackle some DIY tasks, such as removing existing landscaping to prepare the site, doing some demolition on non-structural features, painting the finished room, or installing new landscaping. However, unless you’re skilled at other tasks like plumbing, framing, roofing, or installing drywall, a general contractor should handle the project.

A top-rated remodeling pro can help. Get free, no-commitment estimates from experts near you.

Home construction projects involve many moving parts to get the job done right and on time. From obtaining permits to scheduling contractors to ensuring materials are up to spec, the money spent on a contractor is worth it. Reputable contractors are licensed and insured to ensure you’re not liable for any accidents that could occur, saving you the potential embarrassment of calling your homeowners insurance company to explain an error you made that will now cost more to repair. You’ll also appreciate that general contractors can obtain some materials and fixtures that aren’t available to the public, so be sure to ask them about any items they may already have on hand or what they could recommend for your project. They’ll help guide your planning and building decisions as you begin this exciting process.

How to Save Money on Home Addition Cost

Home addition costs quickly jump from affordable to expensive. Since spending more money on a home addition doesn’t guarantee an equal return on your investment, you’ll want to make sure you spend only what needs to be spent. Once you’ve got an idea of your budget and what kind of addition you need, use these suggestions to save money on your home addition cost.

• Get several bids. It only takes a little more time to get bids from several contractors. This helps you find the one who can create your vision at the price you can afford.
• Keep it simple but stylish. The fastest way to blow your budget is to choose expensive materials when other options work just as well. Choose what suits your style and your budget.
• Be flexible when needed. Sometimes you may need to pivot on a choice reasonably quickly for many reasons, like a sudden supplier problem. Or you may realize the double French doors are a luxury that just doesn’t suit your budget when a single door will work just fine.
• Use discount warehouses or repurposed materials. If you’re a fan of shabby chic or vintage fixtures and furnishings, then thrift your way out of expensive costs by finding deals at unexpected places like Habitat for Humanity or other thrift stores.
• Carefully consider DIY options. If you’ve never hung drywall, then let the pros handle that job. But if you know your way around a paint store, then be sure to negotiate the paint job out of the bid to save on labor. Also, consider doing your own demolition of old cabinets, nonstructural walls, and landscaping. Remember, you’ll need to haul it away at a cost, though.
• Make your decisions early and stick to them. Another fast way to rack up extra costs is to constantly change your mind or delay making decisions. A contractor juggles many tasks to make sure the project runs smoothly, so requesting change orders can become costly—as does choosing a different kind of flooring after the first kind was ordered.
• Check for tax credits or refunds. Many programs are available for homeowners to save money by installing energy-efficient appliances or solar or renewable energy resources.
• Consider building up rather than out. Have a contractor review your house to determine whether your floor plan will save you money with a build-up rather than a build-out.
• Look at prefabricated stand-alone options. Sometimes the extra space you need can function as its own building. Ask a contractor about prefabricated modular buildings that can work as an office or studio detached from the house, which reduces the building cost.

A top-rated remodeling pro can help. Get free, no-commitment estimates from experts near you.

Questions to Ask About Home Addition Cost

It’s easy to get overwhelmed by the process of planning and executing a home addition. You’ll need to find a contractor you trust, who is reliable, and who will achieve your vision with ease. Use any of the following questions when talking to a licensed, insured, and bonded general contractor to help make the process easier and avoid miscommunication.

• How long have you been in business?
• Can I see a portfolio of your work?
• How do you calculate home addition costs?
• Can I review a line item bid?
• Will you provide a fixed-price contract with a detailed scope of work?
• Will you pay the subcontractors?
• What kind of payment schedule do you prefer?
• What do you suggest as the top ways to save money on this project?
• Do you already have some extra materials (like flooring) available that I could purchase at a discount?
• After looking at my house and my ideas, do you have suggestions for materials or designs that may work better?
• How can we make sure the addition looks like it’s intentionally part of the house rather than sticking out like a sore thumb?
• Do I need to hire an architect?
• Will my second-floor addition require us to strengthen the existing foundation? If so, what will that cost?
• Will you obtain the necessary permits?
• Are there any zoning restrictions to consider?
• Will you or a manager be on-site when the subcontractors are here in case of problems or questions?
• What if I decide to make a big change partway through the project?
• What hours will the workers be here?
• Will you have other major projects you’re working on at the same time, or will mine be a priority?
• What is the anticipated timeline to complete my home addition?
• How much value will this addition add to my house?
• What kind of warranties and guarantees do you offer?

FAQs

The options are nearly endless when building a home addition, but choosing a general contractor and laying out a specific plan for your project will get you started on the right foot. As you begin finalizing your decisions, consider these answers to some frequently asked questions.

Q. How much does a mobile home addition cost?

It’s entirely dependent on the kind of addition. A metal carport costs $2,300 to $4,850, but a porch could cost $4,600 to $22,000. These additions will not be structurally attached to a mobile home to avoid straining the structure.

Q. Does a Cape Cod addition cost more than other home styles?

It might. Cape Cod additions are a unique and stylish way to add space to your house, and with that style often comes extra costs. Speak with a local contractor near you to find out the most cost-effective way to build this style of home addition.

Q. Do I need to hire an architect for additions?

An architect is a must if you’re looking at an extensive addition that alters walls, redesigns room flow, or affects any other major structural changes to the roof or foundation. An architect’s expertise will ensure the addition is structurally sound and meets building code requirements. Suppose you’re doing a simpler addition like a bump-out or single room addition. In that case, you may not need an architect if the general contractor is experienced at updating blueprints and meeting zoning codes.

Adding An Addition Onto Your House: What You Need To Know

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links, which means we receive a commission if you click a link and purchase something that we have recommended. Please check out our disclosure policy for more details.

When it comes to home additions, it can be tough to know what you don’t know. How will an addition affect resale value? What are the building codes involved? Can you DIY it or do you need to hire a contractor? Whether you’re thinking of adding on a second floor, or just putting in a cute dormer, all of these are questions to consider before adding on to your living space. In this article, we’ll give you starter information that will be useful if you’re thinking about making a home addition in the near future.

Should I Add An Addition To My House?

Whether it’s a small bump-out addition with a remodel, or a full-blown addition project, house additions are investments for homeowners. If you do not plan on moving anytime soon, you have more incentive to make it yours. The value you receive from a home improvement project can be enjoyed for many years to come.

However, if you sell your house in the future, you need to think about the resale value. Make sure the add-on is cost-effective. If the value of your home increases with a tasteful addition, investing in your home could have a high return on investment.

Consider these three questions before starting a home addition.

How Much Does A Home Addition Cost?

How much money an addition costs depends on the variables of your home and what you want. The bigger the project, the more money it will cost. If you’re hiring a contractor, you may see a wide range among different contractor estimates. You may be able to DIY the project, but you must be confident in your skill and willing to sacrifice your time. If you end up needing some financial help, there are some strategies you can use, including a cash-out refinance, construction loans, home improvement loans and more.

When it comes to making home additions, homeowners need to set some limits for themselves. It’s easy to say you want to double the square footage of your home, but is that something you can afford? Are you able to add a sunroom and still maintain your home’s value?

“How much?” is a broad question that covers a lot of ground. It can cover a very elementary question like “How much do we want to spend?” or “How much room do we want?”

“How much?” can also cause an answer you might not want to hear. Questions like “How much do we need this space?” or “How much are we willing to put up with the dust, noise and strangers working on our house?” or “How much time will it take?”

When you’re honest with yourself about the answers to the question of “How much?,” you’ll have a better idea of your needs and expectations, and you’ll lay out the groundwork for the upcoming project.

A home addition can require a big investment of your time and money. It can also disrupt the comfort of your home for a long time.

Get approved to refinance.

See expert-recommended refinance options and customize them to fit your budget.

Is This A DIY Project Or Will You Hire A Contractor?

The next big question to ask before you pick up the phone or head to the hardware store is “Who is going to do the work?”

You can go a couple different ways with this question. First, you can take it on yourself. With that, you’ll have to make sure you, and anyone working with you, has the skill and know-how to do the home addition right. You don’t want to get started on a project to then figure out you’re in over your head.

Imagine finding out you bit off more than you can chew after spending $8,000 on materials you can’t even use. Doing it alone means you’re on the hook for every mistake you make. What’s worse, your mistakes might not come to light until you flip a light switch.

Before you begin, make sure you know your limitations and when you need help. If you can frame and hang drywall, but the thought of wiring makes your skin crawl, why not hire out a contractor? If you have a friend with electrical experience, maybe you could get them to help you out for some free pizza or at a discount.

Save money by hiring out contractors and doing some of the work yourself. Contracting out a job is what a contracting company does when you hire them. Oftentimes, contractors will add a markup to the subcontractors they hire. You’re paying for the recommendation of your contractor, but you’re also paying for the contractor standing by the work their subcontractor performs.

However, if you don’t know a hammer from a hole in the ground, you’re better off hiring a general contractor outright. On something as important as an addition to your home, get professional help. The right contractor can build your dream addition. And their work may up your home’s resale value.

How Do You Find A Reputable Contractor?

It’s all about who you know. If you don’t know anyone well-versed in the industry, ask your family, friends and co-workers who’ve had similar work done.

If they’re thrilled with the work they had done, they’ll be happy to tell you all about it. On the other hand, if they had an awful experience, they’ll be happy to tell you all about that as well.

One popular option is a contractor grading service like Angi.com, whose model includes paying a subscription fee for their grading. If a monthly fee provides you peace of mind when hiring a reputable contractor, go for it.

If the idea of paying a fee to have someone rate a company makes you squirm, there are several other options. HomeAdvisor.com, Houzz.com and ImprovementCenter.com all follow the Angi model, except they offer it for free. All services offer grades based on user reviews and support themselves based on advertising bought on their sites, some of which can be contractors paying for a call-out in the listings.

Whichever avenue you choose, make sure you talk to several contractors for their ideas and estimates before any work begins. Also make sure they’re insured, licensed and bonded to avoid any liability, tax or quality issues.

Home Addition Ideas

Interested in adding square feet to your home, but not sure where to start? Or maybe you know the addition you want to make but aren’t sure what it entails.

According to HomeAdvisor.com, the average cost of building an additional room onto your house runs $80 – $200 per square foot. The discrepancy depends on the layout, your home’s style and the materials used.

Look at some of the most popular extra rooms and get some home addition ideas.

Kitchen Addition

The kitchen can make or break a home. Many homes have a kitchen that’s too small or one that’s poorly designed. If you like to cook and entertain, having a big, well-thought-out kitchen is a dream.

Gather ideas of what you would like your kitchen addition to look like. You can search kitchen blueprints online and try to mockup one of your own. If it’s in the budget, you can hire an architect to put your dreams on paper.

When considering a kitchen addition, determine whether you want to replace your appliances and cabinetry. These are two costly factors, but if you forgo them with your new addition, your kitchen may not flow and may feel segmented or incomplete.

Mudroom Addition

A mudroom can add many benefits to your home. They’re a great place to store shoes, coats and backpacks. They function well as an informal entry to the home. They’re easy to clean, making it a good place to bring in dogs with dirty paws or kids with dirty boots.

Mudrooms benefit from benches with drawers, built-in shelving and lockers or cubbies. Depending on how you’re using the room, you may want a utility sink to make cleanup quick.

Mudroom additions range in cost based on size and materials used. For a small 6×6 room, costs are going to average around $4,000. A large room can cost as much as $12,000. Keep in mind this is just for the room. Any benches and storage will cost extra.

Sunroom Addition

A beautiful sunroom can elevate even the most modest home. These rooms let in tons of natural light. Whether you’re thinking of enclosing an existing porch or building off your front entryway, a sunroom brings a lot of light into the home.

Sunrooms come in a few different varieties, including three-season sunrooms, four-season sunrooms and solariums. Three-season sunrooms are not well-insulated and cannot be used in the coldest months of the year.

Four-season sunrooms are well-insulated and are functional rooms throughout the winter. They’re more expensive than three-season varieties, but you’ll get more use out of them.

A solarium is a type of sunroom made entirely of glass. Because of the thermal technology to keep the room insulated, solariums tend to be more expensive than a four-season room. However, they can double as greenhouses for flowers that require full sunlight.

Bathroom Addition

A major area to increase the value of your home is by adding on a bathroom. You could convert a closet or the area under the stairs into a water closet, or you could dive in and add a whole room entirely. Obviously, the more you add on, the more it will cost.

Before you go planning your new bathroom, you need to look at your piping. Do you have existing water and waste piping near where you want to put the addition? If you’re putting the bathroom in an unfinished basement, the piping is right there.

But if you’re looking at putting in a bathroom in an addition on the back of the house, you’ll probably have to pay more to run pipe. Costs like these can accumulate quickly, especially when you start adding the cost of fixtures.

The good news is that, even if a bathroom addition is costly, if done right, it can greatly increase your home value. Just think how much more appealing a two-bathroom home is than a single bathroom home. If you’ve got growing kids or frequent houseguests, you understand the reason another bathroom is valuable.

Home Office Addition

With more people working from home, the value of a functional home office is increasing. Yes, you could convert a spare bedroom or a section of the basement, but if you don’t have either of those to work with, adding on an office is something to think about.

If you need a space with limited distractions where you can work, you need a home office. For small business owners working out their home, a home office may be a cheaper alternative than renting or buying a commercial property.

To add a home office to your house, your cost will go up depending on the size of the room and the cost of any fixtures. If the office you build could also be a bedroom, you could list it as such if you sell your house. This will increase your resale value.

See What You Qualify For

Congratulations! Based on the information you have provided, you are eligible to continue your home loan process online with Rocket Mortgage.

If a sign-in page does not automatically pop up in a new tab, click here

Smaller Additions

There are a couple smaller additions you can make to increase the charm and value of your home. These small additions cost much less than adding on a whole new room. They can also open your space, making it feel larger than it is.

Dormer Addition

Adding a dormer onto your second floor is a great way to bring in light and expand your usable space. Depending on the size, dormers can cost $2,500 – $20,000, with smaller window dormers running about $4,000. Costs vary depending on your type of house, total square footage and the pitch of the roof. For dormers, hire a contractor experienced with roofing.

Bump-Out Addition

Bump-out additions allow you to add on a small space without having to pay for new foundation work. These additions extend out over the edge of the house and can add extra space onto a current room.

Depending on what room is attached, the space of the bump-out could be used differently. In kitchens, popular bump-out choices are to add a bench and window for a dining room or to add a pantry. If you’re adding a bump-out to a bedroom, it could be used as a walk-in closet. With a living room, a bump-out can be used for a built-in entertainment center.

Bigger Additions

If you’re looking to really expand your home, you could put in a huge addition. These additions will cost a lot more and could be riskier if not done right. But if they work, they will add significant value to your home.

Second-Story Addition

Adding a second story onto your current home is a huge step. If it works, it could nearly double your home’s square footage, turning your one-story into a two-story home. You could add on a bathroom and an extra bedroom in the new space or build out your dream master bedroom.

A second-floor addition is expensive, costing $100 – $300 per square foot. A second-floor addition is the perfect way to build up, not out. This could help if your property lines are tight.

Since a second-story addition is a complex process with a high margin for error, make sure you hire an experienced contractor. Check their references on similar projects, fully vetting them before hiring them.

Garage Addition

If your current home is garage-less or is in desperate need of more storage and workspace, adding a garage onto your home can greatly increase its value. You must consider where your current driveway is and how the addition will sit.

A freestanding garage is more expensive than an attached one, but can present fewer construction challenges. A freestanding garage keeps dust and smells away from the home, but convenience of an attached garage makes going to the garage from the home easy. This transition is even more of a plus with bad weather.

As with other additions, make sure the garage addition blends in with the architecture of the current home.

The Bottom Line

Before you begin the exciting adventure of a home addition, make sure you secure the proper financing for what you’ll need to complete the project. This is especially important since the addition will likely increase the overall value of your home.

Ready to start your home additions? Apply for a cash-out refinance today. You can also give us a call at (833) 326-6018.

Get approved to refinance.

See expert-recommended refinance options and customize them to fit your budget.

Patrick Chism

Born and raised on a farm in the Ozarks, Patrick has a knack for making the best out of the worst situations. Where others see flooded farmland, he sees lakefront real estate. Where others see an infestation of bees, he sees free pollination and a upstart honey shop. Patrick’s articles will help you make the most out of the least, maximizing your returns while keeping a close eye on the wallet. When he’s not writing for Rocket Mortgage, Patrick likes hiking, gardening, reading and making healthy foods taste like unhealthy foods.

Related Resources

Viewing 1 – 3 of 3

Refinancing For Home Improvements: A Guide

Refinancing – 5-minute read

Victoria Araj – March 30, 2023

Are you considering making home improvements? Learn how to refinance your mortgage for home improvements, the benefits of refinancing and more with our guide.

Cash-Out Refinance Vs. HELOC: Which Is Best For You?

Loan Types – 8-minute read

Victoria Araj – June 08, 2023

Cash-out refinances and HELOCs can help homeowners secure funds when they need them. Learn the difference between the two and choose which is best for you.

Construction Loans: Everything You Need To Know

Loan Types – 9-minute read

Miranda Crace – October 11, 2023

Always dreamed of building a custom-tailored home? A construction loan could help to make that a reality. Learn what construction loans are and how they work.

Rocket Sister Companies

Buy a home, refinance or manage your mortgage online with America’s largest mortgage lender¹

Get a personal loan to consolidate debt, renovate your home and more

Get a real estate agent handpicked for you and search the latest home listings