Ingenuity applied to your present rooms may take your far, so evaluate the existing space before deciding to add on or move out.
Do you have a formal living room that stands abandoned while the whole clan crowds into the kitchen eating area for conversation and play? Perhaps you could change the living room into a family room. And if that room is next to the kitchen, you might want to remove a wall to make a large multipurpose area.
There a lot of possibilities. Do you have an extra bedroom? It could become a sewing room, guest room, study, den, home office, craft area, or retreat. Redesigning storage and lighting and splurging a bit on a new décor may be all that’s needed to bring your present family room or recreation area up to date. An unused attic or basement can be finished off. A porch or patio can be filled in. a garage can be converted to living space, workroom or studio. All of those options are less costly than adding a new room or radically changing the structure of your house. But don’t proceed willy-nilly. You probably will have to consult a professional for same or your entire project.
The discussion on these two pages concerning removing a wall or converting an attic, basement porch, patio or garage will not tell you how to do it yourself. It will give you an idea of the kinds of problems you’ll be facing. Once you’re acquainted with the general difficulties, you’ll have a better notion of what portion of the remodeling you can undertake by yourself and what portion will require professional help.
Don’t forget that a permit is required for virtually any change of use or change of structure. Check local building codes and ordinances to find out what is legal.