5 Things to Know Before You Get Started with Your Larchmont Home Addition
It’s incredible what the right home does to your sense of stability and security. But sometimes, even the best discoveries can rock that foundation. For example, finding out you’re pregnant or realizing that your kids are growing up and need more space. Over time, our tastes, styles, and needs tend to change depending on where we are in life. And that can mean that a house that we once deemed suitable for our lifestyle no longer works for us, making it prime time for a house update in the form of an addition. Whether you’re contemplating an addition to your home because there’s a addition to the family on the way, because you received a new promotion, or simply because you’re looking to increase your square footage for resale and improved home value, there are a few important considerations you’ll want to make before you begin. Before you start planning your Larchmont home addition, you want to be sure that what you have in mind is permitted by the Homeowner’s Association. For many communities, the Homeowner’s Association has policies in place to preserve the livability of the neighborhood, such as building height requirements, obstruction limits, and even color restrictions. Be sure to check with yours before you begin so that you’re not violating any Larchmont city codes. Speaking of requirements, you’ll also want to check out the zoning requirements in Larchmont or Westchester County before you begin building. Municipalities have certain requirements that can limit where, exactly, a home is allowed to be built within a given lot. If your plans aren’t well-aligned with those requirements, you’re in trouble, so you want to be clear about any potential city limitations that might impact your project. If you’ve already selected a Westchester County home builder to work with, they should be fluent in the ins and outs of the city zoning requirements and codes. You want the addition you’re building to flow seamlessly with the rest of your home. This means you should consider the types of materials you’ll use and whether they’ll match what you already have. If you have a decades-old home, it can be challenging to find a perfect match, so it’s a good idea to discuss your plans with an experienced Design Builder who can lay out all of your options. Beyond affording you more space and improving your quality of life, a home addition will also impact your home’s overall value. But contrary to what many think, more square footage doesn’t necessarily mean increased value. To maximize your resale value, research the ROI of comparable additions in your area. For some areas, a bathroom addition will get you the most bang for your buck, while in others a deck addition will be more valuable. Of course you should always go with what currently works best for you and your family, but you also want to be aware of your home’s financial future. Heating, venting, and cooling (HVAC) is one of the most critical systems in your Larchmont home. You want to be certain what you have will function well in the new addition. Your best bet is to go over your plans with an experienced heating contractor who will be able to let you know if your specifications and existing equipment will be adequate or whether you’ll need HVAC upgrades to go along with your addition. Adding value to your home when considering a home remodeling project is important. Don’t forget to do your research and to partner with the right home remodeler in Larchmont or Westchester County. PJ Sullivan Construction is a James Hardie Preferred Remodeler and thus is committed to your success. Reach out to us with any questions you may have.1. Clear it with your Larchmont community
2. Check your zoning requirements
3. Consider your home exterior building materials
4. Know how it will impact your home’s value
5. Ensure your HVAC bases are covered
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