Adding a Second Story

[Ian]

Originally Posted by PRBuzz

One thing I've heard (I am not a builder or architect) to consider: will the first floor support a second story. One story homes were mostly designed to support only a roof not an entire second floor. Are the current ceiling rafters able to perform as the second story floor. Of course this can all be correct but for $$$$.

IMO this is the single largest unknown for the whole project. If this gains steam and I decide that I am going to offer short money on the house, I will be shopping for an engineer/architect to consult on the feasibility from a structural standpoint. Pulling the roof off a ranch provides some flexibility with playing with the existing ceiling (the to-be floor) and that consultant will be able to fill in the "unknowns" regarding those kinds of opportunities.
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[PRBuzz]

Originally Posted by Scratch59

IMO this is the single largest unknown for the whole project. If this gains steam and I decide that I am going to offer short money on the house, I will be shopping for an engineer/architect to consult on the feasibility from a structural standpoint. Pulling the roof off a ranch provides some flexibility with playing with the existing ceiling (the to-be floor) and that consultant will be able to fill in the "unknowns" regarding those kinds of opportunities.
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If you really, really, really like the location, there is always bring in the bulldozer and start from the ground up! Seems to be a fairly common occurrance now adays.

[Ian]

Originally Posted by PRBuzz

If you really, really, really like the location, there is always bring in the bulldozer and start from the ground up! Seems to be a fairly common occurrance now adays.

While nothing is out of the question, I am hoping to extract at least SOME value out of the existing structure (which is in good shape, just a cosmetic nightmare.) The property won't be had for short enough money to doze and rebuild.