You are not likely to see a good payback on such a project. If you want to do it anyway, you need to contact an architect to plan it for you.

Agree with Sophie.

I've already got my payback, I bought this house in 1984 at 26 years old for $80,000. I'm 60 years old now and it's been recently appraised at $625,000. I just want a little more room for family get togethers around the holidays. I'ma snowbird and I have a winter home in Naples Florida on a canal, so I may let one of my nephews have the apartment so it's not a totally vacant house during the winter months. I was looking for some professional feedback from architectural designers on here. I have some ideas as to what I want to do, but it's always nice to get some outside views. Thanks for your reply..

This is an interesting document about remodeling split houses... not your specific question but you might find it interesting. Split Visions

You are blinded by sentimental attachment. . A split level is never really worth adding on. Especially at your stage in life.

Wow, I am surprised Sophie that you made that comment. If she wants to do it and isn't so concerned about the investment, I say go for it. We have a very large family room and I wouldn't have bought the house without it. It is where our extended family celebrates every event and keeps us together.

I have no expertise in the area, just wanted to lend my support for the OP's idea.

So if you have all this experience what do you want from us.

lol, that's a funny way to put it. since you asked, I don't 'want' anything from you. I was just seeing what other 'Professionals' would do confronted with the same project, that's all... I'm sorry if you thought I was someone who had no experience in home remodeling, interior designing and construction.. Thank you for your 'Consulting'... :))

dreamhomes- Only you can judge whether this is a project worth pursuing. Hope you get some constructive input. I’m no pro and, therefore, no help at all. I do, however, enjoy reading suggestions seen through the eyes of someone who actually knows something about this stuff. Good luck with your project. Or not.

Keep us posted.

I have that original style house. I too, am thinking of expanding now that the kids are grown and out but when they come back which is often, we have no space. I would love to OP if you would post some of the pictures of the homes you have already remodeled