You can change the appliances and the countertops and change the look. Flooring also is important. Laminated flooring that looks like natural wood and holds up well to heavy kitchen traffic has become popular, Smith said. Ceramic tiles and hardwoods also are popular kitchen floors. If you know what to look for, you can see the additional living spaces that you can create in an existing home.
Some buyers convert an attached garage to serve as a family room or great room.
A garage has the advantage of already having high ceilings and its an existing structure. Some of Smith's recent buyers have incorporated the garage into the home, then added a garage that suits their needs separate from the house. It is important to check local zoning ordinances to make sure any addition or garage incorporation you plan is allowed. An addition that would extend over property setback requirements or constitute a larger than allowed percentage of lot coverage may require approval from the local board of adjustment. An unfinished basement also presents numerous possibilities for added living space.