When space is scarce, building an addition makes the most sense
Home Builders Association of Greater Austin
Q:What's the best way to add additional living space to my home? Julian N., Round Rock
A:There are several options when it comes to adding more space. The first, and most preferable, is to build on. You can also look at finishing out the attic, but that presents a whole series of issues. The biggest of which is trying to create a living environment in a space that doesn't have air conditioning.
As far as tips for adding on are concerned, call the city and your neighborhood Homeowners Association first; find out what's allowable before ever contacting a builder. A plan is also helpful. The next step is to talk to a builder and/or an architect. A builder can look at your plan and determine if you need to bring in an architect to make it happen. Also consider a "wish list" of what you want done; a builder will match the wish list with the budget and go from there.
Next, be flexible and think hard about a budget. Keep in mind that, to help the builder, you need to be up-front and realistic about costs. Ask your builder if your budget is reasonable, or whether it will work for what you want to do. Some ideas aren't always buildable.
Our expert: Wayne Jeansonne, of Solluna Builder, specializes in green building, remodeling, additions, custom homes and special needs. For more information, visit www.sollunabuilders.com or contact Jeansonne at (512) 804-2050.
Q:Why has the cost of housing in Austin gone from some of the least expensive in the country to some of the most expensive? Matt G., Austin
A:The cost of materials is a significant part of the equation. For example, prices for concrete are down but costs for reinforced steel bar, or rebar, an essential component for home building, have increased from nearly $3 to just over $4.50 per bar since 1996. The price for lumber and petroleum-based products also continues to rise.
The cost of a new home is based upon supply and demand. Product pricing rises as the home building market rises, just as lower interest rates increase the home building market. And increased demand locally also means increased labor costs locally.
Another important consideration is the increased cost to develop sites. Austin's topography and building regulations have increased the costs to produce building sites and have limited supply. The eastern portion of our area has mostly clay soil, which further increases the cost to construct foundations and roads. As a result, most builder margins and profits have remained level or even fallen for the last four years.
Our Expert: Ken Klaus, GMB, CGR, of Kendall Builders, Inc., has been in the industry for 28 years and specializes in custom spec homes, renovations/remodeling and commercial renovations for non-profits. Contact Ken at (512) 336-1340 or visit www.kendallbuilders.com.
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Do you have a question for the "Ask A Builder" column? Email it to askabuilder@hbaAustin.com.
For more than 50 years, the HBA has served as the leading not-for-profit trade organization dedicated to residential construction and remodeling in Central Texas. For more information, visit AustinHomeBuilders.com.
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While every attempt has been made to ensure that the information contained in this column has been obtained from reliable sources, the HBA and Austin American-Statesman are not responsible for any errors or omissions, or for the results obtained from the use of this information. The information contained in this column is for general guidance on matters of interest only. Before making any decision or taking any action, you should consult a professional.
