Dormers = the most economical way to add room additions to a home

 

Here is the question of the moment: Should a buyer look at a home with the possibility of future expansion?  Is it too risky in today's market? Many buyers today are faced with the dilema of wanting to take advantage of the low interest rates (buying is cheaper than renting) and worried about the future of housing.  So a change in perspective may be helpful.  It may be time to shift gears and think about what to live with NOW, what to live without or what can make this home fit the needs of a growing family and stay within a budget.

This home at 2934 Collier Avenue in Brentwood, MO as an example of a cottage where a dormer would increase the living space of the home without compromising the innate charm.  It is situated on an incredible lot for the Brentwood area (70x200+).  It has an oversized 2 car garage. 

There would be many ways to add on to this home but  "growing up" in the form of a dormer addition by adding a room and another bathroom could be the ideal solution.  Dormer additions are one of the most economical home addition projects to consider for gaining living space.  There is typically no excavation or foundation work and no setback or easement concerns. This picture of the back of 2934 Collier shows the perfect roof line for adding a dormer.

Here is a picture of the attic and a picture of how the addition of a dormer looks during the process.

The current prices and interest rates are so low, it just makes sense to buy now even if the home being considered doesn't have everything on your wish list.  A principal and interest payment on a loan of $174900 at an interest rate of 4% amortized over 30 years would be approximately $835 per month.  If this is what your current budget allows but doesn't give you EVERYthing, you may want to look at the home with an idea of a future addition.

"Adding on" is not always a viable economic decision, but it should not be ruled out during a home search.  For example, the neighborhood around 2934 Collier has several newer homes and the asking price of 2934 Collier is very competitively priced for the neighborhood.  When making your decision, add these types of factors into your equation.

Virtual Tour of 2934 Collier in St. Louis MO

Sources:

Home Addition Plus

Calfinder

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