A house is perhaps the most expensive investment an average person will make in their lifetime. It’s easy to see why many would rather spend their entire life in the same house than move somewhere else or build a new one in a different location.
There are some straightforward advantages to staying in the same home all your adult life. For one, no other place feels like your own. The familiarity brings a level of comfort; you know your neighbors, the local fish market, etc. You also don’t have to go through all the trouble of moving your belongings and changing your address and phone number. For school-age children, relocating is often a stressful time, as they have made friends and are not exactly excited to leave them.
In some cases, though, a homeowner might feel the need for change. Perhaps the family is getting bigger, or the house feels dated. It might even be falling into a state of subtle disrepair.
A question is often asked, is it more cost-efficient to fix an old house than to move to a new one? The answer is never singular, as there are different factors to consider. For example, the cost of home-related products and labor in your area, the prices of the property where you’re thinking about moving, and so on. In most cases, however, staying put and fixing your home is a better option. Instead of considering a move, think about these ideas:
You Can Make Your Old House New Again
Sometimes, an old home only needs a fresh coat of paint and some replacements here and there. The good thing about this is you can schedule the repairs, repainting, and other changes at different times to spread out the cost. You can do the work yourself if you’re handy with a brush or a hammer. For more complex work, such as replacing a roof, it’s easy to find a roofer offering a good deal, such as installments and financing.
You Can Add More Room
There are different types of home additions. Whatever you need, there is a home addition to address it. For growing families, a conventional home addition is often the answer. This involves a multi-room structure added to the side of – and permanently open to – the main house. Don’t worry about the addition not blending in with your current home; make sure to hire an excellent contractor to avoid such a problem. A conventional home addition can add features like a bigger family room or a new bedroom.
You Can Open Up Some Space
You can also make your home airier by adding a deck or a patio. Not only will a patio make your home feel brighter and more spacious, but it will also add to your property’s market value. Stratco patios are a popular option when it comes to patio covers, as they are sturdy, highly functional, and beautiful. A good patio is an excellent addition for spending more time close to nature. You might even consider building a pool or starting a new garden around your patio area.
Whatever home addition, repair or improvement you’re considering, don’t forget to call your realtor and ask for advice. They know which constructions add value and which don’t. You should also make sure zoning laws in your area allow the addition you want. Your homeowners’ association might also have some instructions. Of course, always consult your builder to ensure you can cover the cost of your project. They should also be able to help pull the necessary permits.