We are adding ~1100 sq ft to an existing ranch house. While the addition will be connected via a cased opening, it is essentially a separate wing of the house and will have a separate HVAC system from the rest of the house (~2300 sq ft). Existing house has an encapsulated crawl space with the HVAC in that space, while the addition is built on a slab due to lot grade. HVAC unit for addition will be in attic.

HVAC contractor has done work on the existing system for many years, and is recommending a heat pump vs. gas furnace for the addition. Says he installs 10 heat pumps for every 1 gas furnace in our area (Central GA). Plumbing gas to the addition has a few challenges but can be done.

Any thoughts on his recommendation? Pros & cons of each system? I have only had gas furnaces historically.

Thanks in advance for your opinions/expertise.

Not an expert, but I've got a gas furnace downstairs and a heat pump upstairs. It works well for us. I like having at least one unit of each type from an outage standpoint. I would have sworn by gas as the ultimate outage heating method, but during winter storm Uri, there was a lot of people that lost gas supply.

I think heat pumps are great if you're in an area where the low temperatures don't get too extreme, or at least rarely see extreme temps. They do start to be ineffective at very cold temperatures and back-up heat can come into play.

Because the addition is new, should be a tighter seal (ignoring the shared cased opening) and thus a Heat Pump would work, perhaps even mini-splits.
That said, your area demands more heat than ours in Aggieland so that's a vote for gas heat = faster, hotter heat & energy savings.

Attic locations always risky, then gas pilot light access better be right at top of attic ladder ceiling access.
Best for servicemen in either case.

Even though am personally in the all-electric camp, would advise gas/propane for heat, fireplace, cooking, WH and inside a 1st Fl closet = Plan redesign.

All-electric boasts lack of fumes healthier, avoids open flame = house fires but simpler power runs.
Small kids, pets & plants have & cause less risk.

I say it's a coin toss if any of the above doesn't sway any votes.
Always buy the top of the line ... in last year's model.
My 2-cents