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The only real drawback to green building is that it’s more expensive up front, with per-square-foot prices sitting 33% higher than what you’d pay to build a traditional home. The higher cost is due to more expensive building materials and more labor to ensure every aspect of the home is as efficient as possible. However, green buildings often save money in the long run, so this is just a temporary downside.

While it’s never too early to start planning for a major home improvement project like a home addition, give yourself at least a month or two to plan and design your addition, find a contractor, and get the permits in order. For larger projects like a second-story addition that require designing with an architect, plan on three to four months of preparation.

Yes, new home construction will always require building permits, no matter where you live. In most cases, you’ll need a general construction permit, along with plumbing and electrical permits for the utility lines in your home. Depending on where you live, you’ll likely find that you also need permits for things like connection to a sewage system or installing exterior components, like decks, driveways, patios, and curb cutouts. Leave navigating the permits required for new home construction to a professional to ensure your home is built legally and safely.

Universal design costs can be minimal when you add them during construction; however, adding universal design principles to existing homes can sometimes increase renovation costs. For example, a mid-grade bathroom remodel is estimated to cost around $30,000, while a standard universal design remodel can cost closer to $40,000. Adding accessible design components can include widening hallways ($500 to $2,000), curbless showers ($2,000 to $8,000), and widening doors ($400 to $800). Keep in mind that these increased costs can lead to higher resale values because universal homes may appeal to a wider variety of buyers.