Do you wish your home had more space? If you have an unfinished basement, you may want to consider finishing it as your next home improvement project. A finished basement is a great way to utilize space, plus it could attract potential buyers if you plan to sell your home.
Your finished basement can be as versatile as you want it to be.
Despite how tedious finishing your basement may seem, you can complete most renovation work independently and at your convenience. As with any project, there are pros and cons to DIYing versus hiring a professional. Knowing the difference can save you time, money, and headache.
What Are The Pros of Finishing Your Basement?
If your basement currently serves as a storage unit for broken furniture or old holiday decorations, it’s time to get your tools and start renovating. Your finished basement can be as versatile as you want it to be. Here are the pros:
- Increases your home’s value. Finishing your basement is a huge advantage when it comes to selling your home. Cut down on work for the future owners and get a hearty return on your investment (ROI). According to Zillow, you’ll see an average 70% ROI.
- Maximizes space. Looking to add a home office? Need a spare bedroom for guests? There are endless ways you can utilize your finished basement.
- Energy efficiency. Conserve the energy in your home with a finished basement. The extra layers of insulation and drywall provide consistent temperatures and reduce the energy required to heat or cool your home. Unfinished basements create more air escape opportunities, increasing your energy bills.
- Added storage and organization. Do you feel like your home is cramped? Between boxes of used clothing, toys, and other donatable items, a finished basement is a perfect solution for efficient storage.
- Additional income. Have you been considering earning some extra income? Convert your space into a spare bedroom with a full bathroom and kitchen, and you have income where your basement used to be.
Following simple guidelines and common sense tips will help you make the right choice for your current and future plans and lifestyle.
With the many benefits of finishing your basement, the task can seem daunting. Thoroughly think it over before rushing into a decision.
What Are The Cons of Finishing Your Basement?
There will forever be challenges to any home improvement project,f so consider all the angles before diving into a renovation. The following details may help you make your final decision.
- Can be costly. Depending on the design you desire, the cost can be the most significant con of a finished basement for reasons like:
- Electricity. Installing new lighting means higher energy bills.
- More upkeep. Basements tend to have higher moisture levels, which can foster mold and other growth. Consider a dehumidifier to keep your new basement fresh and smelling good!
- Building codes. Even though your basement is part of your home, a remodel will require you to follow local building codes in your area. Don’t halt your construction process because you failed to get the proper codes.
- Floor plan. Thinking too outside of the box for your home’s current floor plan means more design, materials, and budget.
- Plumbing. Determined to put a new bathroom in your new basement? Be mindful of plumbing costs.
There are many factors when deciding whether or not to remodel your basement. Following simple guidelines and common sense tips will help you make the right choice for your current and future plans and lifestyle.
Rely on Our Expertise
At Scroggs Construction, we are one of the few remodeling and construction companies in Western North Carolina that handle design work in-house. This service consolidates the home renovation process, creating a more efficient building solution. If you are interested in finishing your basement, consider only the best. Contact us today.