2nd floor extension (Princeton: how much, buying a house, buying)

[leelar]

Hi all,
I am buying a house in New Jersey around Princeton. I like one of the houses we looked, the only problem is 2nd floor is too small with 3 small BRs. I like to extend the 2nd floor right on top of the garage(They are attached, 2 car garage). The garage is bigger than the 2nd floor living space, how ironic!

Any thought? Is it hard to get the permit? Do I need a architect to apply and draw out blueprint?

Any recommendation to the architect/contractor?

Are we talking about 30k? 100k? Just so that I can have an idea.

Thanks folks!

[BobKovacs]

Yes, you'll need an architect, unless you can draw them yourself and you're willing to take responsibility for the structure (doubtful). Depending on how much space you're adding, what you're putting in it (bathrooms, etc), and how much work needs to be done to the existing house to accomodate the additional square footage (upsizing electrical, HVAC, structure, etc), you could be looking at anywhere from $200-300/sf. Assuming the garage is approximately 24'x24', that's around 576 sf, so you could be looking at anywhere from $120k on up.

[wileynj]

First thing you need to do is hire a structural engineer to determine if the existing foundation is designed to handle a second story. I would do this before you hire anyone else... you may not even be able to do it.

[leelar]

Thanks all.

[pat m 2005]

i want to add an extension out back of my house 18x36 which would include a bedroom and bathroom the rest of the space would be a family room,what price roughly am i looking at for this

[pat m 2005]

im interested in adding an extension out back of my house 18x36 which would also include a bedroom with a bathroom,the rest of the space would be a family room,how much roughly am i looking at,