How to Plan for Future Home Expansions and Modifications

Planning Ahead for Home Modifications

When you invest in a home, it should be a place where you can comfortably live for many years. Since situations change as life goes on, however, many families find that they outgrow their house, or it ceases to meet their needs. Carefully planning ahead for home expansions and modifications while you are still in the design stage of home building is a wise move, because it makes it more likely that your home will still work for you in the future.

Why Plan for Future Home Expansions and Modifications?

Let’s face it: moving is a hassle. What’s more, you chose your home because you like the neighborhood and the house. In fact, if you are building a new home, you are probably custom designing it to be perfect for you. The question becomes one of keeping it perfect for you, even if your life changes. Is there a possibility that your family will expand? This could happen if you have another child, need to care for an aging relative, or have a grown child who returns to the nest. Preparing for this possibility by ensuring you can add on to your home is a wise move, even if the idea seems remote at the moment. Then, too, if you plan to age in place, you may need to modify your home for accessibility purposes.

Home Expansions for Future Life Changes

In order to build onto a house, several elements must be in place. First, your addition must be in compliance with local regulations. Then, you will need to have structural elements in place to support the expansion of your home. A strong foundation is crucial if you plan to add another floor, and crawl spaces and basements make it easier to remodel. Simple roof design and strategic placement of walls can also make it easier to expand a house without compromising its structural integrity. If you think you may eventually need a stairway or elevator, this should be discussed and planned during the initial design phase of home building. Consider utilities and layout, as well. Make sure you have an HVAC, electrical system, and plumbing system that will support future expansion. Leaving an unfinished space, like an attic or the area over your garage, can give you the flexibility to expand as you need to.

Modifications to Allow Your Home to Change with You

Accessibility is one reason you might need to modify your home, but it’s not the only reason. Think about the possibility-- likely an inevitability—of technological upgrades in the future. Designing a home that keeps up with modern technology will ensure that you won’t have to do a major overhaul later. It may also be wise to allow space for potential renewable energy sources like solar panels. Planning ahead for accessibility needs is not difficult. By incorporating universal design principles, like using wide doorways and hallways, you can create a home that will accommodate you now and in the future, remaining accessible as your needs change.

Let Landmark Fine Homes Build Your Forever Home

Landmark Fine Homes has beautiful new and custom-built homes in a variety of sizes and floorplans, just waiting to become yours. Our homes are energy efficient and built with the utmost attention to detail, located in active adult communities where you’ll find plenty to do. Make your next house the home of your dreams by contacting Landmark Fine Homes today!