Room Addition

A new space over the garage offers several upsides, including added living space, more storage space, and boosted home value from the addition. If you create an attached ADU with the space, you could secure more privacy for you and any guests you have, or even some rental income if you rent the area. However, there are some drawbacks to consider, too, including the high up-front cost, the potential need to increase structural integrity, and size restrictions since garages are smaller than an entire floor of your home.

Major home remodeling projects have some of the highest ROI for adding value to your home. For example, adding a primary bedroom can return about 55% of the investment to build. The cost of a primary bedroom suite averages $62,000—-so the high ROI helps sweeten the deal. However, always make sure to speak with a contractor and architect before adding a new room to your home, as each space affects the layout and aesthetic of your home differently.

If you’re doing new construction, your bedroom addition will take about four to 12 months to complete. Your timeline will sit toward the lower end for simple conversions without a bathroom, and it can push toward the higher end for custom additions with an ensuite bathroom included. Conversions take less time because they don’t involve structural framing, so you could feasibly finish the project in just a week or two.

First and foremost, you should consider whether you have the time and money to add a room to your home. Additions can be costly, especially if you hire a general contractor, so it helps to make a realistic budget.

If you decide to tackle the project yourself, just make sure you have the time and resources to finish it. Other factors for consideration include the type of room you want to add, how much that room will contribute to your home's resale value, and how much you're willing to spend on details like various finishes and materials.