Expert: Dan Griffin - 1/1/2011

Question
Hi Dan.  We are in need of a 4th bedroom in our home and we are looking for the most econmical way to make that happen.  We have considered going over our garage in the attic space which has been quoted for approx. 40,000.  We have large bedrooms and a ridiculously large master bath.  Do you think it would be cheaper to use the space we already have to create a 4th bedroom?  Could you give me an idea of how much it would cost to make our master bath smaller which would require shifting some things around?  I don't think we are going to stay in this house forever so want to watch how much we spend.  
Thank you for your time and any input you have on this!
Theresa

Answer
Theresa, this will be difficult without being able to see the situation.  It sounds like you are in a fairly new, fairly expensive home if you have a large master bath and bedroom.  Old tract homes had bathrooms as small as 5x7.  A regular tub needs 5'.  

People don't want the tiny old tract home bathrooms, that is why yours has a large one and may be one of the reasons you bought it.  Keep these thoughts in mind as you consider making the spaces you have now smaller, especially as you said you don't plan to stay forever.

Bathrooms and kitchens are the two most expensive rooms to touch.

I think you should look at other options.  You might ask a builder to come see what you have and advise you what is viable and what kind of budget to prepare.  Do NOT ask him to come for free.  Ask him what he would charge to come brain storm wtih you.    This same idea can be done with an architect, but I think your needs would be better served with a good remodeling contractor.  Ask among friends who might be good to consider.

I hope this helps a bit.  Let me know where this all ends up.