A couple years ago I put a drop down ladder for access to the attic.
It was in the closet and the opening was already built. I just had to install.
That closet (walkin) was always very cold in the winter. Really just 1/8 inch
board between space and attic. I purchased an attic door insulator.
WOW what a difference!
Do it yourself
http://www.eere.energy.gov/consumer/your_home/insulation_airsealing/index.cfm/mytopic=11400