Does your house feel overcrowded and outdated? Do you dream of a larger, more functional home?
There are numerous advantages to expanding or remodeling your residence. “You can enhance your lifestyle, improve safety and security, and increase your property value, just for starters,” says Lenore Smith, client care manager for Graham Builders.
Over the years, the Honolulu design/build firm has completed hundreds of renovation and expansion projects for Oahu homeowners. Reasons have varied from family to family, but the results are consistent: safer, more comfortable homes whose values appreciated considerably through remodeling or adding more living space.
Nearing retirement: If you and your spouse are nearing retirement age, you might want extra space to devote to hobbies and interests. “The need for a bigger home becomes evident as kids get older,” says Smith. “Adding home gyms, studios for crafts or yoga, and home theatres can ensure you both have enough elbowroom to enjoy retirement.”
Increase property value; reduce expenses: A well-planned, well-executed renovation or expansion can, of course, significantly increase your home’s resale value. “And energy costs are high enough that upgrading to more modern and efficient appliances, insulation, and windows can help you save real money on your utility bills,” Smith adds.
Create or upgrade rental income: Many homeowners have lot sizes that can accommodate ADUs, which can be rented out to help with mortgages and property taxes. And rental renovation, with more space and upgraded amenities, will attract higher-paying tenants.
Bring the ohana home: “We’ve enlarged homes for some clients because the kids have come home from college, or they’re starting families and can’t afford to live on their own,” says Smith. “Sometimes older parents are also part of that multigenerational household.” In one such case, she adds, the homeowners had Graham Builders create an ohana unit attached to their existing home, with its own entrance, full kitchen, living room, two bedrooms, and two full baths.
Working from home: During the pandemic, many people began working from home, either full-or part-time. “We’ve added home offices for couples who continue to work at home, as well as workshops and commercial studios for people who are pursuing new careers or sidelines,” Smith comments.
Safety and security: Renovating your home to meet building codes can improve its resilience against natural disasters and adverse weather. You might also want to upgrade it with accessibility features like ramps, wider doorways, and grab bars.
Upgrade your lifestyle: “Upgrading your home can greatly enhance your quality of life,” Smith points out, “particularly features like larger kitchens, spa bathrooms, lanais and outdoor living areas.” If your home was originally built with no attention to its surroundings, you might consider upgrading or adding larger windows, or building a deck to take advantage of ocean or mountain views.
Founded in 1990, Graham Builders remains the only contractor in Hawaii honored by the Better Business Bureau’s Torch Award for Business Ethics. Plan your dream home with Graham Builders’ FREE “Building Your Home for Life” Zoom seminar on Saturday, October 5th from 9-11 a.m. Register at grahambuilders.com or call 808/593-2808.