[quote=ryphoenix]Sure, but I need to know what to buy. A 4/2 with the existing master bath connected to a small bedroom, or a 3/2 with some yard space to expand?
So sounds like a 4/2 internal remodel would be easier?
3 times what I think it will be? Probably, but I’m not even sure what the original figure would be, so that’s not very helpful at all.[/quote](emphasis added)
ryphoenix, an internal remodel would definitely not only be cheaper but much less of a headache.
If I can remember correctly (haven’t been in Mtn. Sts. homes in years) the 4/2’s orig. “master bath” was small, either a 3/4 bath (shower stall/no tub) or small 5′ tub with 1 pc. enclosure and door and 2.5′ – 3′ vanity with one sink. It could only be approached from the corner of the MBR.
I think you would be better off getting a 4/2 where the small closet and “master-bath” back into the small closet of a bdrm. behind it, tear out the two closets’ walls and bathroom walls and then reconfigure the space into a larger master bath, larger dual closet w/possible built ins inside and added space to the MBR. Then you will still have a 3/2/2 with a nice MBR suite w/o adding square footage which would be assessable and go up 2% per year (along with your orig tax bill amt) per Prop. 13. (You don’t want to reduce the house to 2 bdrms because they are harder to resell.) You will be able to keep your nice-size backlyard, hopefully facing Tecolote Cyn or going uphill in the back of the lot for privacy 🙂
If my memory serves me correctly, the 4/2/2 L-shaped model, (built in approx. 1961) is between 1650 and 1850 sf, depending on whether a FR/dining extension has been legally added to the back. Any Clairemont Piggs out there avail to help here??
Who knows?? Maybe you will find one where a prev. owner has already made the MBR-suite improvement!
UCGal, correct me if I’m wrong, but no permits will be required if all your remodeling is within the confines of the house. Regarding load-bearing walls, I believe that to be the left or right hallway wall, depending on which way the house is facing. You should get a carpenter or builder to take a look at any prospective property you are thinking of making an offer on to give you advice about how to do this.
If you can stay away from drawing permits, having to move elsewhere during the remodel, having to do a major replumb, having to saw the slab and/or having to reroute major electrical components or the furnace, your MBR/bath remodel shouldn’t cost very much, esp. if you can do it yourself or alongside a carpenter friend/relative. It’s quite possible to do this for a few thousand without borrowing at all if you and a handy friend/relative work well together. You can get an interest-free loan at a big-box home improvement store for at least six months if you have good credit and barter services with your friend/relative helping you or pay them under the table 🙂
