Tehama Country Real Estate

H omeowners hoping to expand their homes are faced with a number of choices. One of the first they will have to make is which direction to take their expansion. Homeowners can choose to expand horizontally, increasing the foot- print of their homes, or vertically. Professionals urge prospective remodel- ers to consider the pros and cons to each expansion option, including which di- rection to build. One of the first considerations is land space. Building horizontally will cut into yard space that you may have already earmarked for a pool, shed or another feature. Proximity to neighbors and the dimensions of your property will also help to determine if expanding horizon- tally is a good idea. Building codes and neighborhood re- quirements also must be considered be- fore making any renovations. Some mu- nicipalities may have rules in place that govern renovations. Add-ons may not be allowed to exceed certain height limits, nor may structures be built within a cer- tain number of feet of property lines. Homeowners who choose to build up- ward will have to contend with work crews and other staff being in their homes. Raising the roof may require va- cating the premises at a certain point. Also, extensive renovation work will be needed on the lower level of the home, whether itÕs to shore up the structure, clean up aer the renovation or repair ceilings, drywall and other components where levels meet. It may seem easier to expand outward, but this requires laying additional foun- dation for the new building structure. Bringing in digging equipment and ma- sons can be costly. When you build ver- tically, such foundation work may not be necessary if your home is structurally sound and can bear the weight of the ad- dition. Building out typically involves the least disruption to your life and the existing space. Homeowners should keep in mind that any renovation will require permits or variances. In addition, if the project increases the value of the home, home insurance costs and property taxes may rise. Only aer all considerations have been weighed should a project begin. HOW TO ON HOME ADDITIONS: Up or Out

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