Hire an architect to envision the finished structure. Even though it's "just a rectangle", they'll have to figure out ways to integrate the roof line and make sure the foundation is sound. Let them know you'd like to build in stages and they may have suggestions as to how to get bids from contractors.

Thanks for your suggest.

I have asked a couple neighbors and a friend and none of them used architect. Ive found a simple plan on the web and was planning on using it.

My concern is exactly what do I call this structure. Do I call it a storage room or future unfinished family room?

You'll need a building permit and structural engineer to design the foundation, based on its final use. We don't know your soil conditions. If you're planning an actual room, then you will need HVAC and electric. You need to know your local setback requirements and other building codes.

Do this right, so it's a legal permitted space. It will cost more than a shed. But if you do it right, there is no reason you can't weather it in to start and finish it over time.

Nobody should be advising from the info. It isn't "Just add a rectangle." By avoiding what needs to happen ( a plan, an architect, at the very least a draftsman permits, for all, ") You will keep wasting money.

Post the existing interior conditions. Inside and outside. What are you storing that a shed purchased prior, was a "solution"?

You have to start the physical building with digging a trench for a foundation pour. Without collapsing the existing house by excavating too close to it’s foundation in the *wrong* way. Which means you have to have a correctly engineered design from a professional with enough insurance against his design mistakes. And then a contractor with similar licensing and insurance, who is capable of following the permitted and approved design plan.

Design is advance planning, so that you don’t become victim of the ”I shoulda” hindsight. All everything begins with design.

Thanks everyone, I appreciate your time and support.

I think I might be on the wrong board.

Thanks again.

Yes you can build in stages. You will be asking for a shell. But realize for a family room there really isn't much more to do to finish it out - drywall, trim, and floor finish. If you put in the windows and a sliding door now it probably won't be considered "storage" even if the inside is unfinished and there is no access from inside the existing house - it will probably be called and assessed as a "3 season room." In most locales your permit is good for a year and you can renew it again while it waits for you to finish it.

Thanks,

This is good information, exactly what I am looking for. I just converted 625 sq ft. that I was using as storage to an small apartment. I have planned on converting my carport to a garage, but there is an utility easement running under it, which prevent me from closing it in.

I most likely just used this as storage, but, I thinking further down road, if i need to or what ever convert to family room or extra bedroom,. Who knows?

I think before adding ANY space, means to first define its purpose. Sorry to disagree with the intent, but "who knows" isn't the best way to start. You'll build, then drywall off the view into the "storage? What if it never becomes a family room? Is it then just the garage you do not have?

Perhaps get an off site storage area or two, until you get the real purpose defined. In the meantime? Show the current living condition : )

You absolutely don't need an architect or structural engineer for a simple addition. Find a reputable GC; he's built hundreds of these and they turned out just fine.