Is Converting Your Garage Into Living Space a Good Idea?
Maximizing your living space is essential. Luckily, there are many ways to do this such as converting your attic, basement, or garage into living space. However, did you know the garage is becoming the most popular way to maximize your living space? While this option isn’t best for everyone, the following is a closer look at whether you should consider converting your garage into a living space.
Tips for Converting a Garage Into Living Space
If you are considering turning your garage into a living space, there are plenty of things to consider before breaking ground on your new garage space:
- Type of Space: Do you want the space to be an extra bedroom or living room? Depending on the type of room you decide on, the way you would plan for the remodel is vastly different. Therefore, take the time to decide what type of room you would like and develop your vision for it.
- Cost: Depending on the type of space you pick, the cost of the project will vary. Make sure you have the funds to cover the type of space you want.
- Storage Solutions: Do you currently use your garage for storage? If so, you will need to consider adding a storage closet, or another storage area, to your repurposed space.
- The Temperature: When your house was built, you most likely didn’t have your garage insulated or include central A/C or heating. Now that it’ll be a livable space, you will have to consider the temperature of the room throughout the year. In New Jersey, we experience all four seasons, so you will need to install heating, cooling, and insulation.
- Flooring and Ceiling: Since most garages are built with concrete floors, you will need to decide what types of floors you want in your new space. Whether that be hardwood, carpet, tile, or heated floors. During this project, you may also need to decide if your existing ceiling is sufficient or if you need to replace it.
How Does This Affect Home Value?
Turning a garage into living space affects your home value in different ways depending on where you live. If you live in an urban area, this could negatively affect your home value since a garage is rare, and many homebuyers would want it for its original purpose. However, in suburban neighborhoods, your home value could increase or stay the same. Homebuyers in suburban areas typically have driveways and less crowded street parking, so not having access to a garage may not be an issue.
Key Takeaways:
- Converting the garage into living space is becoming the most popular way to maximize your space.
- When converting your garage into living space you need to consider the cost, temperature, and what type of space you want it to be.
- Converting your garage into living space may negatively impact your home value if you live in an urban area.
Ready to Remodel Your Garage?
Overall, if you are ready to remodel your garage into living space, we’re here to help! Converting your garage into a living space is an excellent way to go about adding a room to your home without totally remodeling it. If you are interested in this type of project for your garage, contact your friends here at Advantage Contracting for a quote today!
