Home Additions That Add the Most Value

Matt Harcus • April 4, 2025

Smart Upgrades That Boost Livability, Curb Appeal, and Resale Potential



When it comes to home improvements, not all upgrades are created equal. Some projects look good on paper but deliver little return when it’s time to sell. Others, especially well-planned additions, can dramatically increase both your home’s livable space and long-term value.


At Martin Construction of Platteville, we help homeowners across Southwest Wisconsin make smart decisions about expanding their homes. Whether you’re looking for more room, better function, or increased resale value, these are the top home additions that pay off—both now and in the future.


🛏️ 1. Primary Suite Addition

A spacious, well-designed master suite is one of the most in-demand features among homebuyers today. Adding a bedroom with a private bath, walk-in closet, and modern finishes not only improves your lifestyle—it can significantly boost your home’s appraisal value.

Added Value: Up to 50–70% ROI depending on layout and features
 
Best For: Empty nesters, growing families, or anyone tired of sharing a bathroom


🍽️ 2. Kitchen Expansion

A cramped kitchen can turn buyers away—and frustrate everyday living. Whether you’re bumping out a wall for more space or adding a full-blown open-concept layout, a kitchen addition is one of the most reliable ways to add equity and everyday comfort.

Added Value: Consistently among the highest-ROI renovations
 
Best For: Entertainers, growing households, and homes with outdated layouts


🧱 3. Family Room or Great Room

More living space never goes out of style. Adding a family room or great room gives your home the flexibility modern families want—whether for hosting, relaxing, or keeping everyone from feeling on top of each other.

Added Value: High, especially when built off the back of the home
 
Best For: Older homes with segmented layouts or minimal shared space


🚿 4. Bathroom Addition

Homes with only one or one-and-a-half baths often struggle in today’s market. A second or third bathroom—especially near high-traffic areas or in a finished basement—can make a big difference in function and value.

Added Value: Up to 60% ROI depending on placement and fixtures
 
Best For: Homes with growing families or guest accommodations


🏠 5. Finished Basement or Attic Conversion

You already have the square footage—why not put it to work? Turning an unused attic or basement into livable space is a cost-effective way to add a bedroom, home office, gym, or rec room.

Added Value: Strong, especially when adding bedrooms or bathrooms
 
Best For: Homeowners on a budget who still want more functional space


🛠️ 6. Mudroom or Laundry Room Addition

Not flashy, but extremely practical. Adding a well-designed mudroom or laundry area keeps dirt out of the main house and adds organization and convenience.

Added Value: Modest ROI, but high lifestyle impact
 
Best For: Rural properties, families, pet owners, and new builds without one


💡 Planning an Addition? Start with a Smart Strategy.

The key to maximizing your home’s value isn’t just adding square footage—it’s adding the right kind of space, with the right design, and the right builder.

At Martin Construction, we walk you through every phase of your addition:

  • Site evaluation and zoning compliance
  • Design and space planning
  • Budgeting and timeline transparency
  • Local code, energy efficiency, and build quality

📍 Serving Platteville and Southwest Wisconsin

From initial concept to final inspection, we build home additions that feel seamless—not slapped on. If you’re considering expanding your home, let’s talk about what adds value and makes life better.

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