Has anyone here added a second story to a home?

[arkitech]

If so I'd be interested in knowing what part of the country the home was in as well as roughly what the cost was.

[JCC]

There are a lot of variables to consider - and I mean a lot.

Easiest is to look around and if there are similar properties in the neighborhood find another home that has had an addition - talk to the builder or owner. Sometimes the contractor is listed on the building permits avail for review at your building dept.

Otherwise start getting contractors to look at it and possibly some engineers to let you know the requirements.

Finish quality is a critical factor also.

What area are you in?

the simplest can be $25 sq ft and less to expensive high end at $100+ sq ft.

[arkitech]

Wow, 25 dollars per square foot is an incredible price if possible. I would be willing to do all of the finishing work if I could find a contractor at that price. I'm currently living in Olympia Fields, IL (south burbs of Chicago) but I'm looking to downsize into a smaller home in a less expensive area. I lost my job earlier this year so I'm trying to get out of my home before a foreclosure happens.

[JCC]

It all depends on what you are working with - it is of course a lot cheaper and easier to add to a bottom story - especially if the roofline works with your plans - many first story additions can be done without an engineer and you can or your contractor can draw the plans yourself - this even works here in the highly regulated areas of California.

If you know what you are doing $25 a foot is acheivable but it would be very "minimal" - but you can always add later - jut build the shell for now.

You have to find a roof that is easy to modify and a home that you can obtain the "plans" on in order to cut costs when retrofitting the walls and foundation.  Also - a newer home is easier as you will have less to "bring up to current code".

Many factors of coure but it all can be done - but I will say it again - if you can find a home where you expand the bottom story you will have less work and worries.

[furnishedowner]

arkitech,
You are looking to downsize and avoid foreclosure, and yet you want to add a second story?  This is not adding up.

Can't you just slash the price of that house, "as is", or do a short sale, and just get the heck out?

Furnishedowner

[arkitech]

arkitech,
You are looking to downsize and avoid foreclosure, and yet you want to add a second story?  This is not adding up.

Can't you just slash the price of that house, "as is", or do a short sale, and just get the heck out?

Furnishedowner

I realize that does seem odd. I received a small severance from my job when I was laid off, it's just enough to buy a small home and make some improvements.

[furnishedowner]

So it's the old pre-foreclosure home that you want to get rid of?  And the new smaller place that you want to add a second story to?

Furnishedowner

[arkitech]

Yes, that's the situation. I'm hoping to get the current house out of my hands and move into something more economical. I'm also looking for mold infested homes as well, I might be able to pick one up for a decent price.

[4R Management]

Wow, so close to me. I grew up out in Richton Park and still have family in Olympia Fields. I have spent many a day at the Olympia Fields CC!

Feel free to private msg me here to discuss options.

I am still in Chicago.

[Nick Brian]

Hi what area you are talking about $25sq feet? I live in Santa Cruz Ca and wish to invest anywhere at a lower price possible. Let us all know. Thanks.