The Cheapest Ways for House Additions

Single Story

• Depending on the size of your lot, it may be tempting to build a second story rather than expanding your house outward and sacrificing some of your yard. However, second story additions are expensive because of the additional support they require, which may include modifications to the first story and your home's foundation. Start with plans for a single story addition in an area of your property where you can afford to lose landscaping, a garden or a walkway.

Add Space, Not Fixtures

• House additions range from simple expansions that add square footage to existing rooms and larger, more costly projects that not only add extra space but also include new fixtures and wiring. Adding new fixtures, such as sinks, electrical outlets and stoves, requires you to work with specialized contractors. The cost of hiring an electrician or plumber will push your addition into a higher price range. The cheapest home additions only add living space without attempting to provide any new fixtures. For example, you can expand the dining or storage section of your kitchen to keep costs low instead of expanding the cooking area.

Adding Value

• Over the long run, a home addition should not only cost you money to build, but also make you money by increasing the value of your home. When you sell, you should be able to recover at least some of the money you spent on the addition. Pursue additions that add the most value. Check local real estate listings to determine what buyers might consider your home to be lacking. For example, if you have fewer bedrooms that most homes in your neighborhood, a bedroom addition will be useful and help pay for itself in the long run.

Payment and Financing

• The way you choose to pay for a house addition also affects the overall cost. To buy an addition as cheaply as possible, take advantage of low-interest financing offers from your bank or credit union. If your addition is small enough, consider a credit card with a zero interest promotion and pay off the balance before finance charges begin to accumulate. Compare contractors and select one with a low-interest payment plan. Each of these techniques will reduce the cost of an addition and make it easier to afford the project you want.