Recommendation for a

[Anonymous]

We're looking to renovate and build a small addition on our brick Colonial in Chevy Chase. We've met with 2 contractors so far who have said it will be easier and cheaper to tear down and rebuild. This seems to be what so many people are doing now but we really like our hous. Any recommendations for a contractor who can build an addition that ties into the house and isn't just a siding covered box tacked on the back.

[Anonymous]

It is really expensive to build an addition, as you're finding. Few additions look too good- most don't blend in with the house well. Something kind of neutral in the back with siding is probably better than a lot of additions I've seen. It is really expensive to get a good architect and build a good addition.

We're in Arlington and have considered the same type of equation you are. For us, the numbers didn't make sense - for an addition (eg, might spend $200k but only increase the value of the property by $100k, not at all appealing to us) or knocking down the house and building a new house (might spend $300k, but increase the value of the property by a lot more-- but we don't plan to move, and aren't comfortable taking on the debt at this time in our lives.. the increase in property value would just have the effect of increasing our property tax bill ).

We're content enough with the current house. We'll stay here until we burst out of this house, then will consider moving or look at the build-a-dreamhouse option again when we have more money.

Best of luck - it could make sense in some circumstances, for certain. I'd recommend checking estimates with Commonwealth Restorations (obviously located in the Commonwealth of VA but they may do work in CC) . Also recommend Case Construction. Also if you run or walk around the neighborhood, I'd see which builders have signs in front of your favorite house renovations- that is a good way to get ideas and builder references.

[Anonymous]

We are in the middle of a rennovation and can tell you that when we looked at getting quotes, the design build firms in the area were doing just what you describe...tacking on a siding covered box in the back of the house, while the architect we ended up using was able to turn our home into exactly what we wanted. You have to factor in, however, that the architect fees will add an extra 15% to the construction costs.

[Anonymous]

You might look into Bell Builders. We worked with them a few years ago. We talked to them about several options including a bump-out, addition and basic kitchen remodel. I never felt pressured to do more than I wanted (or to do the more expensive option) and we did end up just doing a basic kitchen remodel with no addition or expansion. They were a pleasure to work with.