For many homeowners in Chicago’s western suburbs, the question eventually arises:
Should we move, or should we add onto our current home?
With rising home prices, limited inventory, and strong emotional ties to established neighborhoods like La Grange, La Grange Park, Western Springs, Hinsdale, and Clarendon Hills, more homeowners are discovering that a custom home addition can be a smarter, more rewarding alternative to moving.
Below, we break down the key factors to consider — and why a well-planned home addition is often the better long-term investment.
The True Cost of Moving vs. Building a Home Addition
At first glance, moving may seem simpler. But when you factor in the hidden costs, the equation changes quickly.
Costs of Moving Often Include:
Realtor commissions
Closing costs
Transfer taxes
Inspection repairs
Moving expenses
Higher property taxes
Renovations to make a new home “yours”
In many cases, these costs add up to six figures, without improving the home you leave behind.
Home Additions: A Smarter Investment
A thoughtfully designed home addition:
Adds usable square footage
Increases your home’s resale value
Improves daily livability
Allows you to stay in a neighborhood you love
Instead of paying fees to change addresses, you’re investing directly into your property.
Why Home Additions Are Especially Popular in Chicago’s Western Suburbs
Many homes in the western suburbs were built decades ago and weren’t designed for modern lifestyles. Common challenges include:
Small kitchens
Limited primary suites
Lack of open-concept layouts
Insufficient space for home offices or multi-generational living
A custom home addition allows homeowners to modernize without sacrificing location, school districts, or community ties.
At Elik Homes, we frequently design additions that feel completely original to the home — not like an afterthought.
Design-Build Advantage: Planning From Start to Finish
One of the biggest mistakes homeowners make is waiting too long to involve a contractor.
Elik Homes is a full-service design-build firm, with on-staff architects and interior designers who collaborate from day one. This integrated approach allows us to:
Align design, budget, and construction early
Avoid costly redesigns or change orders
Streamline permitting and approvals
Create cohesive, intentional spaces
Whether you’re adding a primary suite, expanding your kitchen, or building upward, early planning ensures better results.
Types of Home Additions That Deliver the Highest ROI
Not all additions are created equal. Some of the most valuable and popular projects include:
Primary Suite Additions – Private retreats with modern baths and walk-in closets
Second-Story Additions – Ideal for growing families
Kitchen & Family Room Expansions – Improves flow and entertaining space
In-Law or Multi-Generational Suites – Increasingly in demand
Home Office Additions – Designed for long-term flexibility
Each project is tailored to your home’s architecture, lot conditions, and lifestyle needs.
When Remodeling Makes More Sense Than Moving
If you love your neighborhood but your home no longer fits your life, remodeling or adding on is often the better choice when:
You want to avoid bidding wars
You’re locked into a favorable mortgage rate
Your children are established in local schools
Your home has untapped potential
A strategic remodel or addition allows you to customize your home exactly how you want it, rather than compromising.
Is a Home Addition Right for You?
Every home — and homeowner — is different. The best way to determine whether a home addition or remodel makes sense is through a professional consultation.
At Elik Homes, we help homeowners across Chicago’s western suburbs evaluate:
Feasibility
Budget expectations
Design options
Timeline
Long-term value
Ready to Explore a Home Addition?
If you’re weighing the decision between moving and remodeling, we’re here to help.
Contact Elik Homes today to schedule a consultation and discover how a custom home addition can transform the way you live — without leaving the neighborhood you love.