EP 74 | Home Owner’s Dilemma: Remodel, Add-On, or Tear Down? [Expert Panel]

In this episode:

In this episode of the Your Project Shepherd podcast, host Curtis Lawson assembles a team of experts, including Toner Kersting of Toner Home Performance, Jeremy McFarlane of Brickmoon Design, and Sandro Gonzalez of Aggregate Engineering, to discuss the critical decision of whether to remodel, add on to, or tear down an existing house. This episode explores the multifaceted nature of this decision, emphasizing the importance of a collaborative approach that considers architectural, engineering, and performance factors, as well as financial and real estate considerations. 

TOPICS COVERED:

• The Role of the Team: Understand the importance of assembling a qualified team of professionals, including an architect, engineer, builder, and building performance specialist, to guide homeowners through the decision-making process.
• Initial Considerations: Explore the initial factors to consider when evaluating a potential remodel or rebuild project, including:
  • Site Conditions: Deed restrictions, floodplain status, drainage, and lot size.
  • Structural Integrity: Foundation condition, existing framing, and load-bearing capacity.
  • Financial Feasibility: Budget constraints, long-term goals, and potential resale value.
• The Realtor’s Role: Discuss the limitations of relying solely on a realtor’s advice for this decision, and the importance of seeking expert opinions from architects, engineers, and builders.
• The Importance of Early Engineer Involvement: Emphasize the need for early involvement of a structural engineer to assess the existing structure’s capabilities and limitations, and to ensure the feasibility of any proposed additions or modifications.
• The Remodel Snowball Effect: Understand the potential for a remodel project to expand in scope as unforeseen issues and homeowner desires come to light, and the importance of planning for flexibility and potential cost increases.
• Performance Considerations: Discuss the challenges of achieving optimal building performance in a remodeled or added-on structure, including moisture management, insulation, and air sealing.
• The Value of Experience: Highlight the role of experience in making informed decisions about remodeling or rebuilding, and the ability to identify potential pitfalls and offer alternative solutions.
• The Importance of a Master Plan: Emphasize the need for a comprehensive master plan, even in phased remodels, to ensure a cohesive design and avoid costly rework or compromises in the future.
• Pros and Cons of Remodeling vs. New Construction: Summarize the advantages and disadvantages of each option, including:
  • Remodeling: Potential tax benefits, faster permitting, phased construction, and the ability to live in the home during certain phases.
  • New Construction: Greater design flexibility, improved performance potential, and potentially lower long-term maintenance costs.
• Making the Decision: Offer guidance for homeowners on making the right decision for their specific needs and circumstances, considering their budget, lifestyle, and long-term goals.

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Full Transcript