Tips for Using your Basement instead of buying a bigger home
The Rise of the Basement: Top Tips
Basements are back. With houses at a premium, and a proliferation of DIY how-tos, more homeowners are feeling inspired to reclaim unused space. Check out the Tips for Using your Basement instead of Buying a bigger Home below.
Updating your lower level is a sound investment. REMODELING magazine’s 2016 Cost vs. Value Report put the average basement remodel at $61,303, with a 70.3 percent payback—a far better return than adding a bathroom or garage.
Depending on local regulations, the additional space can often be added to your home’s total square footage, making your listing more appealing to buyers and potentially increasing your property’s value.
Tackle any needed repairs, including waterproofing your lower level. Seal your walls and floors first—hire a professional if you’re short on time.To recoup the most from your remodeling efforts, make sure your design and decorating choices are attractive and functional—not too quirky or customized. For a list of qualified contractors go to our contractor discounts page for resources on sealing up cracks, finish carpenters, electricians etc for you project.
Since below-grade spaces are usually cool, humid and prone to water damage, consider investing in a dehumidifier and choosing moisture-resistant products in the remodel.
Make sure your flooring choices stand up to moisture, too. Patch any cracks in the concrete floor, and consider adding a subfloor if the surface slopes or is uneven.Repair or replace the ceiling. Plaster any cracks and replace yellowing tiles. Look for products that are specially treated to resist the growth of mold and mildew. Savvy design choices, like coffered ceilings or wood planks, add style, and the results are easier to achieve than most people think.
Many homeowners gravitate to the warmth and soundproofing effect of carpeting in basements. Low-pile or Berber carpets resist wear and are inexpensive. A moisture-barrier pad between the carpet pad and the carpet adds another level of water resistance and reassurance.
Finishing your basement is a wise investment that will reap dividends for years to come. You’ll enjoy the added living space now, and realize a healthy return in the future.
Tom Stachler is a licensed Broker and Builder marketing condo and homes in the Ann Arbor Michigan community and surrounding areas such as Dexter, Saline, Chelsea, Milan Ypsilanti and Pinckney real estate markets. Note the Search Properties link above to view a complete Inventory of homes and condos for sale. Also click on the resources tab above for other helpful information Links, contractor discounts and sources. Have questions want sell your home or get a price ? Go to www.MyPrice.guru to get started and see comparable home sales. Or maybe you want to search for property and view an updated MLS inventory report created for those Buying properties . Hit the contact me link to the right or call us with any questions because we would love to hear from you. We also have a Contractor Discount page here on our website or many helpful Links in the tab above for more resources.
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