You need a bigger house, not an addition which would remove any curb appeal you now have.

I think you should look at hiring an architect to help you make the additions work for you, while preserving the look of the home. You dont want to do something that will cause you to lose equity in your home.

Thanks for the feedback. I agree with what you are saying and also don’t want us to do work that would price us out of the neighborhood. Any idea how much hiring an architect runs?

Around 10% of your 200K project could go to design work.

I would interview one or two and ask that they give you an estimate. I dont know what it might cost. I would search for a couple architects whose work you like, call and schedule an apt. Bring your budget, pictures, and house plans, even if it’s just a quick sketch you draw on your own. Some architects might meet you at your house. Also, check the neighborhood and sold prices to make sure you are not over improving.

It’s hard for us to tell from your closeup pictures if you really have room to add on. Could we get a street view?

Try googling for pictures of capes that have been added-on-to, like the above poster said.

I just noticed the sidewalk in front of your entry - that does look very close! It may be that you cannot enclose or expand your front entry due to zoning setback requirements. I'd check that before getting too attached to any idea.

Better look up your setback requirements too. The easier rhing in this situation is to extend the home to the right side. Or maybe an L off the right side to the back. Front and left is a nope.

Hi, Erica! What did you decide to do with your Cape Cod? I also have a Cape Cod and would like more of an entryway to remove shoes and such. Thanks!

I’d also love to know what you decided and if you have photos of the finished work if you went through with an addition. We are also thinking of how to add a mud room

Hi all, sorry for not responding earlier as I missed the email! We have not

proceeded with any renovations and honestly not sure if we will. After much thought, I realize this house was built well and is what it is - it would be a huge investment to expand and I am not sure worth it! I might re visit the idea in a couple years but for now we are living with it!