Converting Your Unfinished Basement Into a Livable Space
Not all homes have basements, but if you are one of the lucky individuals with an unfinished area below your home, why not take advantage of it today? A basement conversion is easier than you may think, and it can significantly increase the value of your home. Depending on how your family enjoys spending time together, you can add a children’s playroom, a family room, or a personal exercise area. However, before you begin the project, consider these factors.
Contractor Choice
Choose your contractor with care. The lowest bid on a project is not always the best. You may find yourself with substandard work, disappearing workers, and a lackadaisical contractor once they have money in hand. Check references and the state licensing board before your sign any contract.
Utility Space
As you begin imagining how you will be utilizing your basement conversion, remember to plan at least five years into the future. If your children are toddlers, they will require a more diverse play area in five years than they currently do. The same is true for families with teenagers because the teens will grow and leave home. The rooms should be built to allow easy transition to craft, man caves, or personal gym areas.
Project Budgeting
Creating a budget and sticking to it can be difficult when ideas about the conversion constantly flow into your mind. The best thing you can do for yourself, your future, and the project is to keep to your budget if possible.
Resale Value
Adding usable footage to your house will add to your home’s value when you resell, but it will also attract more buyers. Your home’s total square footage will increase whether you add bedrooms or a family gathering space in your basement conversion. Additionally, you will be able to recoup most of your project expenditure if you stay in your home at least three years after the transformation.
A basement conversion is a good option if you have an unfinished basement available. You can begin planning the project today.