Are you pondering “how to increase your home value” or develop additional front curb appeal?
The front porch still has a connection to the hearts of every American. When looking for ways to increase the selling value, nothing says home sweet home like a cozy chair on a covered porch. Recently CNN Money concluded adding a front porch increases the value of your home.
As one of the most functional spaces in your home, your front porch can help you build connections to your neighborhood, comfortably keep an eye on your children playing in the front yard, or just enjoy the fresh air.
The front porch can be a great spot for the family pet to chill out and a nice place to sit and enjoy the Pacific Northwest’s frequent rain showers. A covered porch can also help keep your home cleaner, allowing for a dry place to store wet boots and umbreallas.
You will need to answer several questions before diving into a home improvement construction project, like a new front porch.
What style do you want the new front porch to reflect?
What, if any, easement issues exist?
Are there any foundation issues?
Do you have the necessary structural support?
The more important question to answer is will this addition be useful and enjoyable for your family?
Before putting pen to paper or seeking advise from a contractor, spend time driving around your neighborhood. Note the homes with porches you like and don’t like. Visualize yourself sitting on those porches enjoying lemonaid or spending quality time together with your family. Then try to picture your ideal new porch on your home. Does it fit with the existing architecture?
