“Found” space over your existing garage
Expanding your colonial is a smart option for anyone who appreciates their current location and doesn’t want to move.
The most common issue has to do with the typically small size of the master bedroom, master bath and closets.
I feel there is a cost effective solution for you to consider.
If you have a garage, or a carport which is attached to the house then you should build over that space. The extra square footage will provide you with a large bedroom, walk in closet, and luxury bath. One friend was able to add an upstairs laundry too.
Draw out a rough plan before you call builders
Your best strategy for getting this project done quickly and within budget is to put together a plan before you reach out to a builder.
- Measure the dimensions of your garage space
- Understand that you may add two feet “cantilevering” a wall
- Look at the existing structure and sketch an exterior concept
- Sketch out a bedroom, bath and walk-in closet
- Consider windows, and where you will place a bed
- Consider a large shower, maybe eliminating a tub
- Ceiling height ~ consider a tray ceiling
- Consider a shed-dormer
- Convert existing space into an upstairs laundry room.
Your costs will vary due to the strength of the structure you are building on top of. Exterior walls may need additional structural reinforcement which, in most cases, isn’t as major as your are thinking.
Many builders will also do this type of a job while you are living in the house. The new structure gets finished to a certain point before they “break through” into your existing living space.
Some important parts of this project:
- An additional HVAC system for this new space
- Electrical upgrade
- Plumbing for your new bath
- Exterior look ~ Hardie Plank lap siding?
- Roof shingles
I am not a builder, but, I do know that builders in Vienna and McLean are in demand and may be tough to reach.
The best advice I can give you to get their attention is to approach builders with a preliminary plan in hand with a rough drawing. Yes, these plans can/will change as you get real building plans drawn up. Look at what builders are including in projects they are building around town like these new home trends.
It’s okay to borrow good designs ideas…
The other question I get is if this is a good investment. Since real estate appraisers swear by square footage, know that they will be able to justify the value now and when you really do decide to sell your home. For me, as a real estate agent, the workmanship and quality are critical… as well as the layout, window size and placement, cabinetry and tile selection. Overall, this project has an excellent return on your investment.
If you have questions know that I am happy to give you my professional opinion. Send me an email, doug@dougfrancis.com
Resources to give you some ideas and spark your imagination:
