OHi | Northwest Chicago Home & Commercial Remodeling Blog

The Benefits of an Addition

Written by Jim Thomas | May 26, 2025 11:00:00 AM

If your current home no longer fits your needs, the temptation to move to a larger space is strong. However, before you pack up your life and search for a new house, consider an alternative: an addition to your existing home. A well-planned addition can give you the extra space you need without the hassle of moving. Here are some key benefits of expanding your home, rather than making a move.



Cost-Effective Alternative

Moving can be expensive. Between real estate agent fees, closing costs, and the expense of physically relocating (packing, moving trucks, etc.), the cost of moving often adds up quickly. On top of that, home prices can fluctuate, and you may find that upgrading to a larger home doesn’t fit within your budget.  By choosing to add an extension to your current home, you can often achieve the space you need for a fraction of the cost. While home additions require an initial investment, they are usually more affordable than purchasing a new home with all of the associated costs. Plus, a well-done addition can increase the overall value of your property.

 

Stay in Your Ideal Location

Location is one of the most important factors when choosing a home. If you love your neighborhood—whether it’s for the proximity to work, schools, parks, or friends—moving might mean leaving behind a place you cherish. Instead of uprooting your family and starting over, a home addition allows you to stay in the community you’ve grown attached to while still getting the extra space you need.  You’ll maintain access to the same local amenities and social connections, avoiding the stress of adjusting to a new neighborhood or a longer commute.

 

Customization to Your Needs

When you move, there’s always a compromise. Whether it’s the layout, design, or features, it can be difficult to find a home that perfectly matches your vision. But with a home addition, you get the chance to design the space exactly how you want it. Whether it’s an extra bedroom or a larger kitchen, you can create a custom space that aligns with your exact needs and preferences.  Working with an architect or designer gives you the flexibility to ensure that the new addition blends seamlessly with your existing home, both in functionality and aesthetics.

 

Increase Property Value

Home additions, when done right, can significantly increase the value of your property. A well-executed addition adds both usable square footage and modern updates that will appeal to future buyers, should you decide to sell. Whether it’s a master suite, a home office, or an expanded living room, adding usable space can make your home more attractive on the market.  In contrast, moving into a new house might not guarantee the return on investment that an addition could provide, especially if the current market conditions aren’t ideal. With a home addition, you get to enjoy the upgrades for yourself while knowing they’ll add value to your home for the future.

 

Faster Turnaround Time

When you buy a new home, the process can take several months, from searching for properties to closing the deal and moving in. You’ll also have to deal with the stress of waiting to sell your current home.  On the other hand, a home addition typically has a faster turnaround time. Depending on the scope of the project, you could be enjoying your new space in a few months instead of spending years searching for a new home. This makes adding an extension a much quicker and less time-consuming solution.

 

 

While the idea of moving to a bigger house might seem tempting, adding an addition to your existing home offers a more practical, cost-effective, and less stressful alternative. Not only will it allow you to stay in the neighborhood you love, but it also gives you the opportunity to customize your space to meet your needs without the hassle of uprooting your life.  If you’re feeling cramped or need more room for your family, consider the benefits of a home addition before jumping into the complex process of moving. With the right planning and execution, you can enjoy a larger, more functional living space while still staying in the home you already love.

 

 

Take the next step today:

  • Visit contactohi.com to schedule a free design consultation.

  • Browse our portfolio for inspiration.

  • Meet the team behind the build.

Your dream home doesn’t have to exist somewhere else—it can grow right where you are, in the heart of the Northwest Suburbs.