Retrofitting an Elevator to Your Existing NJ Home: A Practical Guide

The stairs you once took two at a time have become a daily challenge. Perhaps you’re tired of carrying laundry up and down, or you worry about a parent’s safety when they come to visit. For many, it’s simply the desire to enjoy every square foot of the home they’ve worked so hard for, without limitations.

Whatever your reason, the thought of adding an elevator to your existing home can feel both exciting and overwhelming. As New Jersey’s trusted mobility experts, we at Mobility123 have seen how this single upgrade can transform a home and the lives of the people in it. Many homeowners believe that elevators are only for new construction, but that’s no longer the case. Retrofitting a residential elevator is more practical and accessible than ever.

This guide will walk you through what to expect, from the first question of “Will it fit?” to the final, satisfying ride.

Can My Home Actually Fit an Elevator?

Yes, the vast majority of existing homes in New Jersey can be retrofitted with an elevator. From split-levels in Bergen County to Shore Colonials in Ocean County, modern elevator designs offer incredible flexibility. You don’t need a massive, open-plan home; you just need a smart plan from an experienced team.

The first step is always a professional site evaluation. A Mobility123 specialist will visit your home to assess its layout and structure, identifying the most efficient and least disruptive location. We are experts at finding these “hidden” opportunities. Common placements include:

• Stacked Closets: Aligning closets on multiple floors is a popular and cost-effective method because it uses existing space and minimizes new construction.
• A Corner of a Room: A sleek glass elevator can be tucked into the corner of a living room or family room, becoming a beautiful design feature rather than an obstruction.
• An Unused Hallway or Nook: That small, awkward space you’re not sure what to do with could be the perfect spot for a compact elevator.
• Next to a Staircase: Placing the elevator alongside the existing stairs is often a logical and space-efficient choice.
• Attached Garage: Imagine pulling into your garage with groceries and taking the elevator directly to the kitchen level. This is a highly convenient option that eliminates a major daily hassle.

Traditional residential elevators typically require about 20 to 25 square feet of space per floor. However, innovative shaftless models like the Stiltz Homelift can fit within a much smaller footprint.

What Does the Elevator Installation Process Look Like?

The process is a well-managed project, handled by our team to minimize disruption to your life. We coordinate every detail, so you have a single point of contact and a clear understanding of the timeline, which generally follows these key steps:

1. In-Home Consultation and Design: This is where we listen. A Mobility123 consultant will discuss your daily routines, accessibility needs, and design preferences. We’ll help you choose the right elevator type and select finishes—from wood grains to modern metals—that blend seamlessly with your home’s decor.
2. Permitting and Meticulous Planning: Our team handles all the complex paperwork and permitting with your local New Jersey township. With years of experience across the state, we know the specific codes and requirements, ensuring everything is done right the first time. This phase typically takes a few months.
3. Respectful Construction and Installation: Our installation crews treat your home as if it were their own. They work cleanly, efficiently, and with the utmost respect for your space. Depending on the elevator type, this phase can last from a few days for a shaftless model to a couple of weeks for a traditional home elevator.
4. Thorough Inspection and Handover: After installation, the elevator undergoes a rigorous inspection to guarantee it meets all safety standards. Once it passes, we don’t just hand you the keys. We walk you through its operation, answer every question, and make sure you feel completely comfortable and confident.

What Are My Elevator Options for an Existing Home?

You have several excellent choices for a retrofit project. We help you select the perfect fit based on your home, budget, and goals.

• Shaftless Elevators: These are recommended for retrofits and tight spaces. They travel smoothly on a self-contained rail system and require very little construction.
  
  • Best for: Preserving open floor plans and homes where a quick, minimally invasive installation is a priority.
    
• Panoramic Vuelift Elevators (PVE): These elegant, tube-shaped elevators are ASME A17.1 code compliant. Their futuristic look and self-contained design make them a popular choice.
  
  • Best for: A modern aesthetic, situations where a pit or machine room isn’t feasible, and making a visual statement.
    
• Traditional Traction (Electric) Elevators: These are what most people picture when they think of an elevator. They operate within a custom-built hoistway.
  
  • Best for: Achieving a classic residential elevator feel, higher weight capacities, and the greatest degree of customization.

Understanding the Cost and Long-Term Value

Installing a home elevator is a powerful investment in your quality of life, safety, and your property’s future. While costs vary, it’s helpful to have a general idea of the investment for a complete, turnkey installation in New Jersey:

• Shaftless Elevator/ Homelifts: Typically start in the $35,000 – $50,000 range.
• Panoramic Vuelift Elevators (PVE): Typically start in the $70,000 – $90,000 range.
• Traditional Electric Elevators: Often start between $35,000 – $45,000, with final costs depending on the number of stops and custom finishes.

Consider this investment against the alternatives. The cost of an elevator is often significantly less than the recurring annual expense of an assisted living facility. More importantly, it delivers priceless daily benefits:

• Enables True Aging in Place: Stay in the home and community you love, safely and independently.
• Boosts Resale Value: Makes your home a premium property, highly attractive to a wide range of future buyers.
• Provides Peace of Mind: Eliminates the constant, underlying worry about a fall on the stairs for you or a family member.
• Adds Daily Convenience: Effortlessly move heavy luggage, boxes, or even a sleeping grandchild from one floor to another.

Why Your Partner Matters: Choosing Mobility123 for Your NJ Elevator Retrofit

Working with a specialized, local installer is the single most important decision for a successful retrofit. An elevator is a complex machine that becomes part of your home’s structure. You need a partner with proven engineering expertise and a deep understanding of New Jersey homes.

At Mobility123, this is our specialty. We don’t just sell equipment; we provide comprehensive solutions. 

Our team:

• Navigates Code Compliance: We have deep experience navigating the specific building codes and permit processes in towns all over New Jersey.
• Ensures Structural Integrity: We conduct professional assessments to ensure your home’s foundation can safely support the elevator for decades to come.
• Manages the Entire Project: From the first call to the final inspection, you have one dedicated team accountable for your project’s success and your complete satisfaction.

Take Back Your Home, One Floor at a Time

Adding an elevator is about more than just convenience; it’s about restoring full access to your home. It’s about ensuring safety, planning for a comfortable future, and removing barriers to the life you want to live.

If you’re ready to explore how an elevator could work in your New Jersey home, the next step is simple. Contact the Mobility123 team today for a free, no-pressure home assessment. We’re here to listen, answer your questions, and help you find the perfect solution for your home and your family.