Ever feel like your home just doesn’t have enough space? Maybe your family is growing, or you’re finally ready to build that dream kitchen. Expanding your home sounds like the perfect solution. More space, more comfort, more value—what’s not to love?
But—and it’s a big but—if you don’t plan properly, your dream room addition can quickly turn into a stressful endeavor. Before you break ground, be sure to talk to a professional remodeling contractor in Nichols Hills about the biggest mistakes homeowners make when adding onto their house—and how to avoid them.
What should you not do when adding onto a house?
Thinking about adding onto your house? Here’s what not to do:
Skipping the planning stage
A common mistake homeowners make is jumping into a home addition without a solid plan. This isn’t the kind of project you can just wing—it takes careful planning, from blueprints and budgeting to scheduling. If you rush in without thinking about how the new space will blend with your existing home, you could end up facing costly fixes later.
Ignoring local building codes and permits
Nothing stalls a project faster than a stop-work order from the city. Every area has its own building codes and zoning laws, and skipping the permit process might seem like a shortcut—but it can lead to hefty fines or even force you to tear everything down. The good news? You can trust an experienced contractor to take care of all the permits for you, so you don’t have to stress about the paperwork.
Not matching the addition to your home’s style
Whether you’re planning for a master suite or expanding in a different way, a home addition should feel like it’s always been part of the house, not something tacked on at the last minute. If the roofline, exterior finishes, or architectural details don’t match, it’s going to stand out—and not in a good way. The same goes for the inside. Mismatched flooring, wall colors, or trim can make the new space feel disconnected instead of blending naturally with the rest of your home. The key is making everything flow so it feels like it belongs.
Overlooking HVAC and electrical needs
When adding onto your home, it’s easy to overlook how it’ll affect your heating, cooling, and electrical systems. Your HVAC might struggle to keep up with the extra space, and without enough outlets, lighting, or plumbing, you could be in for costly repairs later. Before you get too far, check with a professional to see if your current setup can handle the expansion—or if it’s time for an upgrade.
Failing to consider resale value
It’s fun to dream big when adding to your home, but it’s worth thinking about how those changes might affect resale value. For example, turning a bedroom into a fully decked-out home theater might be perfect for you, but future buyers could see it as lost bedroom space. The best approach? Focus on upgrades that improve functionality while keeping your home’s value in line with the market.
Hiring the wrong contractor—or none at all
Thinking about tackling that home addition yourself or going with the cheapest contractor you can find? Might seem like a good idea at first, but it can backfire fast. Bad workmanship can lead to structural issues, expensive fixes, and even lower your home’s value. Instead, take a little time to do your homework—check reviews, ask for references, and get a few quotes. The right contractor won’t just get the job done; they’ll do it right, so you don’t end up with a mess to fix later.
Where can I find an experienced room addition and remodeling contractor in Nichols Hills?
Ten Key Remodels is the top choice for home additions and remodeling in Nichols Hills and the greater OKC area. We’re a full-service contractor known for innovative design, efficient project management, and superior craftsmanship. Whether you’re exploring the latest home addition trends or need expert guidance, we’ll work closely with you to create a seamless expansion that enhances both space and functionality. Get in touch today to start planning!