Profitability of adding a floor to a house in Quebec
- coraliefortin076
- Jun 30
- 4 min read
Updated: Jul 22

Adding a story or expanding your home may seem like an ideal solution to meet your space needs. However, before embarking on such a project, it's essential to consider several financial factors to determine if the investment is worth it.
At Plan Maison Québec, we understand the importance of carefully planning and carrying out a construction or renovation project that is profitable in the long run. In this article, we'll explore the financial aspects of adding a story and expanding your home to help you make an informed decision. So what is the profitability of adding a floor to a house in Quebec?
Factors to consider before you start

Before deciding whether a floor addition or expansion is a good idea, it's crucial to understand the factors that will influence the profitability of your project. First, consider the value of your property, its location, and how you plan to use the additional space.
Your property value and location
One of the most important factors to consider is the current value of your home. If your property is located in a desirable neighborhood and adding an extra floor can significantly increase its value, the investment will certainly be worthwhile. However, in some areas where real estate prices are lower or where space is abundant, adding an extra floor may not offer the expected return on investment.
It is therefore essential to conduct a thorough analysis of your local market before embarking on any expansion project. This includes comparing it with similar properties, which may already have similar or higher price points than your home. If adding an extra floor or an extension doesn't allow you to achieve a value that offsets the cost of the project, the investment may not be justified.
The cost of the floor addition project
Adding a story is a complex project that requires specific materials, skilled labor, and careful planning to avoid structural errors. Costs can vary considerably depending on the size of the expansion, the complexity of the design, and the materials chosen. On average, adding a story can cost between $100,000 and $250,000, but this can fluctuate depending on the unique characteristics of your project.
Furthermore, adding a story isn't just about adding additional walls and a roof. You also need to consider necessary infrastructure such as electrical, plumbing, as well as thermal and sound insulation, which will increase the cost. Before making a decision, it's advisable to consult a construction expert or architect at Plan Maison Québec, who can provide you with a more accurate estimate based on your needs.

The return on investment of an expansion
It's essential to calculate the potential return on investment (ROI) of a story addition or expansion project. Generally, if the addition significantly increases the living space and value of your home, the investment may be worth it. However, ROI depends on many factors, such as the type of project, the quality of the materials used, the location, and local real estate market trends.
A thorough study may include comparing it with neighboring homes that have undergone similar expansions or analyzing price appreciation in your neighborhood. Furthermore, a well-executed renovation can not only improve the home's value in the short term, but also provide long-term benefits by increasing the demand for your property upon future resale.
The advantages of an extension compared to buying a new house
For some homeowners, buying a new home may be an alternative to adding a floor or expanding the existing one. However, this option comes with some notable drawbacks. For one thing, buying a new home in a constantly changing real estate market can be expensive, especially if you're in an area with high prices. Additionally, moving to a new home involves transaction fees, notary fees, moving costs, and often additional renovations.

Conversely, adding a floor allows you to stay in your current home while benefiting from more space. This way, you avoid the costs associated with purchasing a new property while improving the comfort of your home. It's a less intrusive and more economical solution, especially if you're attached to your neighborhood and its surroundings.
Unexpected costs: how to avoid them?
One of the often overlooked aspects of adding a story or an expansion is managing unexpected costs. While many expenses can be planned for, unforeseen circumstances can arise during construction. Foundation issues, necessary adjustments to the plumbing system, or challenges related to local regulations can add additional costs.

It is therefore advisable to allow for some flexibility in your budget to manage these unforeseen events. Good project management and support from Plan Maison Québec experts will allow you to minimize risks and ensure that the project runs smoothly.
Conclusion : Profitability of adding a floor to a house in Quebec
Ultimately, adding a story or expanding your home can be an excellent way to create additional space and increase the value of your property. However, it's important to carefully evaluate the cost of the investment and the potential return on your project. Working with experts, like those at Plan Maison Québec, will help you better understand the various technical and financial aspects of your project, ensuring you make an informed choice.
If you're considering adding a story or expanding your home, Plan Maison Québec is here to support you every step of the way. Don't hesitate to contact us for a personalized consultation and advice on the feasibility and profitability of your project.
Together we can create a plan that fits your needs and budget.



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