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Writer's pictureJordan Wanamaker Javier

The Ultimate Guide to Home Additions: Process, Timelines, and Pricing

At Karma Construction Group, we understand that planning a home addition is a significant investment of both time and money. This comprehensive guide aims to walk you through the process, from the initial permitting stages to the final construction, ensuring you have all the necessary information to make informed decisions.


1. Permitting (30-90 Days)

The permitting process is the first step in any home addition project. Depending on your location and the scope of the project, obtaining the necessary permits can take anywhere from 30 to 90 days.


Typically, permitting costs range from 5-8% of your total construction budget. This phase involves submitting detailed plans to your local building department and addressing any zoning or code issues. Additions can cost between $200-500 a SF depending on which direction you are building. Read on for more clarification.


2. Design Selections (30 Days)

Once the permits are secured, the next step is to finalize your design selections. This stage takes about 30 days and involves choosing materials, finishes, and fixtures that align with your vision and budget. Your design selections will depend on the type of addition you're planning.


For example, adding a master bathroom on the third floor or a kitchen on the main level bump-out can each add between $30,000 to $80,000 in additional costs.


Key decisions include selecting flooring, cabinetry, countertops, and lighting. Our experienced designers charge $50 to $90 an hour, based on the length and complexity of the project. Working with an experienced designer can help streamline this process and ensure your choices are cohesive and functional.


3. Pre-Construction (30 Days)

The pre-construction phase involves finalizing all details before breaking ground. This includes scheduling, ordering materials, and coordinating with subcontractors. This stage typically takes around 30 days. During this time, we also conduct site inspections to prepare for any potential issues.


4. Construction Timelines

The actual construction timeline varies depending on the type of project:

- Home Additions: 90-180 days

- Kitchens: 30-60 days

- Bathrooms: 14-30 days


Costs and Considerations for Home Additions in DC


The cost of home additions in Washington, DC, ranges from $200 to $500 per square foot, depending on whether you are building outwards or upwards. Here are some key considerations:


- Building Out: Typically costs less as it doesn't involve significant structural changes. Expect to pay between $200 and $300 per square foot.


- Building Up: More expensive due to the need for structural support and potential foundation underpinning. Costs range from $300 to $500 per square foot.


Underpinning Foundations

If you are adding a second story, underpinning the foundation may be necessary to support the additional load. Underpinning typically ranges from $30,000 to $80,000, roughly around $300 to $500 per linear foot. This cost can increase if you need to excavate the basement for higher ceilings and add a concrete slab.


Additional Costs to Watch For

- Water Line Upgrades: If your addition requires new plumbing, upgrading your water line and service connections may be necessary. This can add between $10,000 and $25,000 to your project.


- Material Costs: High-quality materials can significantly impact your budget. Here are some approximate costs:


- Framing: $15-$30 per square foot

- Drywall: $1-$2 per square foot

- Insulation: $1.50-$3 per square foot

- Roofing: $5-$10 per square foot


Detailed Costs for Common Materials

- Concrete: $100-$150 per cubic yard for standard concrete. Costs can increase for specialty mixes or finishes.

- Flooring:

- Hardwood: $8-$14 per square foot

- Tile: $5-$10 per square foot

- Carpet: $3-$7 per square foot

- Painting: $2-$6 per square foot, including labor and materials.

- Countertops:

- Granite: $50-$100 per square foot

- Quartz: $60-$120 per square foot

- Laminate: $20-$50 per square foot

- Cabinets: $100-$500 per linear foot, depending on materials and customizations.

- Tile: $5-$20 per square foot for tile itself; installation adds $10-$20 per square foot.

- Plumbing Fixtures:

- Faucets: $100-$500 each

- Sinks: $200-$1,000 each

- Toilets: $200-$800 each

- Lighting Fixtures:

- Basic fixtures: $50-$200 each

- High-end fixtures: $500-$2,000 each



Conclusion

Planning a home addition can be a complex and time-consuming process, but with the right information and a trusted partner like Karma Construction Group, you can navigate each step with confidence. From obtaining permits to selecting materials and managing construction timelines, our team is here to ensure your project is a success. Contact us today to start planning your dream home addition!



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