Montreal extension question ... crawl space versus basement and going back versus going up

2/19/2023 at 11:48:18 AM

Hi this quote seems a little high . But stick to your plans, changing now men's having to redo permits and drawings, and in the end you won't be happy, all prices have gone through the roof, see if you can get another quote

2/19/2023 at 12:53:50 PM

Yes, 120K does seem a bit much. Get a few other quotes as per your plan for comparison.

Crawl space vs basement. I would suggest staying with the full basement. A crawl space would be as warm if done properly but a full basement will give you returns on selling day plus you have extra space. Going with original rear extended living is your best all around option.

2/19/2023 at 8:10:21 PM

Hi,

Get a few more quotes. I would have to see the property. And see how easy or difficult access for the equipment for excavation and then pouring the foundation.

I have run into difficult sites. That has affected not just the foundation work but the actual construction of the addition as well. I have had sites on Avenue road in Toronto where we had to have police officers on the street to direct traffic. That added 175.00 per hour for each officer.

2/20/2023 at 11:49:23 AM

Let me start by saying I don't live or work in your area, I work in Ontario so pricing might be somewhat different in some cases.

It is always more costly per square foot to go out versus up to add the square footage you are looking for, saying that, $120k for the below ground work seems excessive unless this is a huge 2000sf addition.

Then there is the cost of renovating the existing main floor on top of the cost of going up, so is it really going to be cheaper?? Short term it is likely going to be similar but likely slightly less costly however, you lose space for stairs and mechanicals to the second floor. You have to ask yourself what challenges you are trying to solve and in the best case scenario how old are you and how long would you like to stay - if we are 50+ years old than a single level home could be your 'forever' home versus one with lots of stairs??

Lastly, can your lot support he loss of green space outside and can you make use of that outdoor space you want with a main level addition. For me I would always do a full basement even if you never intend to finish the space for resale value.

Thanks! Rob

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