Expert: Mollie Ackner, AIA - 12/21/2011

Question
I just purchased a 2 bedroom, 1 bath home back in April near Los Angeles. I am considering either adding an additional full bathroom off the master bedroom or enclosing the patio to make a sun room. My budget is about $6,000. My questions are: 1. Can I make either of these additions properly within my budget? 2. What is the better addition to make in terms of resale value, resale potential, return on investment? 3. Do you think the investment is worth it in terms of resale value, resale potential, and return on investment? I'm curious if a 2 BR, 2 BATH is much more marketable than a 2BR, 1BATH? I had considered adding a full bedroom and bath on, but it is out of my budget. I appreciate your feedback.

Answer
Hey Michael,
Here where I am, (NC), $6k would be pretty tight for a bathroom addition, but given the right design and the right builder, it could maybe be done.  Construction cost can be different in different regions of the country however, so your best bet would be to check with a local builder or architect.  As far as the return on investment, I would think you'd get it back, however again, the best person to tell you that would be a local real estate agent.  Good luck, and enjoy your new house!
Best,
Mollie Ackner, AIA