Anyone in North Jersey have a large home addition done recently? (house, neighborhood)

[JoJoLopes]

The left side of my house is perfect for an addition of a 2 car garage and master suite above. It would be about 25 x 20. I've looked at various calculators that give cost per sq ft, such as $40 for garage space and $100-200 for livable space, but I feel like the costs are low and don't reflect what it would really cost. The calculators give estimates of like 70-90k, but I feel like it's going to wind up being closer to $150k.

There is one house on the next street from me that had an extra large one car garage with bedroom above build, so I'll ask him in the spring if I see them outside.

So, the question is, has anyone done a similar addition in the last few years and can give a final cost?

[nybbler]

Double the national average for NJ prices would be my feeling, but I haven't done an addition.

[andrew.mensch]

Prices vary... a garage is a garage, but a master suite can have oak or carpet... and bathrooms can vary widely based on what you add.

A few things worth consideration:

1. Don't overvalue your house for the neighborhood unless you're staying for a while and want to enjoy the space.
2. Add something great so resale is easier down the road, and you can enjoy the place (a big shower, jacuzzi tub, etc)
3. When building over a garage, consider radient heat in the floors, especially the bathroom where the tile gets cold in winter.