Garage to Living Space Conversion Tips and Ideas
Are you considering remodeling your home by adding a new living space, extra bedroom, office, game room, gym or home theater? Is converting your existing garage space the right decision for your project? Here are some questions to ask before deciding if this is the right option for you:
· Cost
o A garage conversion can range from $5,000 for a simple bedroom or living room, to well over $25,000 for a kitchen or bathroom remodel. According to Home Advisor, the following is a list of some approximate costs:
- Garage conversion permit - $1,000 to $1,500
· You will also need to acknowledge you are adding square footage of living space to your property which may increase your taxable square footage.
-Garage insulation - $0.30 to $2 per board foot
- Wall framing - $4 to $10 per square foot
- Windows - $300 to $1,200 per window
- Ducts and vents - $475 to $2,100
- Electrical outlets - $125 to $300 per installed outlet
-Plumbing - $375 - $1,900
· Am I Able/Allowed to Convert My Garage to Living Space
o If you belong to a homeowner’s association, will the HOA approve the project?
o If you are not able to park elsewhere on your property, will you be in violation of city curbside parking regulations?
o Will you have a place to store your tools, lawnmower, etc.?
· Does Converting the Garage Add or be Detrimental to the Home’s Value
o If the conversion is completed properly, the added square footage can increase a homes’ value by 10-15%, at best. Typically, you can expect to recoup about 80% of the project cost.
o Expect the remodel to have a detrimental impact if:
-Not having a garage makes parking complicated.
-The project is completed illegally or without permits.
- The remodel eliminates necessary storage.
· What Type of Living Space Am I Wanting
Susan Meyer – The Zebra offers some suggestions:
o Bedroom
- Soundproof the walls and doors, especially if the renovated bedroom faces a street or alley.
-Add a tray ceiling and integrated lighting for interest;
o Kitchen
- Plan a layout that works for you – think a triangle between the sink, stove and the refrigerator.
-Add lots of natural light with skylights.
o Office
- Enhance your Wi-Fi signal, especially if your garage is a long way from your Internet modem.
o Bathroom
-Add floor heaters in case this room gets colder than the rest of your home.
- Add a half bath, which will cost substantially less than a full bathroom.
- Make certain to create a waterproof seal and ensure that you have an open peril homeowners insurance policy to cover water damage.
o Living Room
-Add faux beams to the ceiling for architectural interest.
- Install an electric fireplace and mantel to create the elusion of a fire without the danger.
o Gym
- Set up a mirrored wall.
- Lay down rubber tile floor to absorb shock and ease strain from high impact workouts. They also protect the concrete underneath from damage caused by dropped weights.
o Game Room
-Add a billiards table, pinball machines, a dartboard-host a game night in your home arcade.
- Install a putting green or virtual tee box.
o Home Theater
-If your space has a large and blank wall, hang a projector – incorporate surround sound or use Bluetooth speakers.
- Block any sources of outside light with blackout curtains – or remove windows to limit how much light is allowed into the room.
o Laundry Room
- Add an extra washer and dryer to save time doing laundry.
· Is There a Better Alternative
o Build an addition to your existing home – this may allow you to have a better final product that is both structurally and code-wise sound.
o Expand the garage – adding a room above your garage may be a better choice for resale while allowing you to keep your existing garage space.
Is a garage remodel or addition in your future? Hope these tips and questions assist you in reaching the decision that works best for you and your family!
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