Update Your Garage for an ROI

Garages are being used for more than vehicle parking these days.  Garage renovations add living space and can provide up to an 80% ROI.

Homeowners tend to want to maximize their homes’ space. For some, this may involve turning a garage from a utilitarian space into one that serves multiple purposes. According to The Mortgage Reports, a home-buying and improvement resource, garage renovations can increase a home’s value and add living space. Garage remodels can also create additional storage space, provide an area for a home gym, create room for a home office or a section of the garage can be transformed into a convenient shoe storage area, where family members and guests can remove their shoes before entering the home. This not only helps keep dirt and debris from being tracked inside but also contributes to a cleaner and more organized living space. Before beginning a garage remodel, homeowners may have some common questions about the process.

How much does the renovation cost?

Several factors will ultimately determine the final price of a garage remodel, but HomeAdvisor says   average for a garage remodel falls between $6,000 and $26,000. Most homeowners come in at around $15,000 for a total garage conversion.

Will I recoup the investment?

A garage conversion adds value to a home if it creates new and usable living space. The firm Cottage, which pulled together a team of builders, architects and technologists, advises the average garage conversion provides an 80 percent return on investment. That ROI varies depending on location.

How can I upgrade the flooring?

Garages traditionally feature concrete floors. Although durable, concrete floors can feel damp, hard and cold underfoot. Vinyl plank and epoxy flooring options can elevate the garage’s design and functionality.

Can I have the best of both worlds?

Sometimes a garage needs to serve many purposes. Lofting the garage means a homeowner can still park cars or utilize the lower space as a living area, all the while items are stored overhead. Some flip this design scenario and have the loft area as a bedroom or finished living space while the lower portion remains a traditional garage area. Another thought is to finish only a portion of the garage. This works well for two or three car garages with room to park a car, and the remainder will serve another purpose.

What are other ways to improve the garage?

Installing more windows or improving the lighting in the garage can be important. The garage improvement experts at Danley’s say window installation enables people to circulate air in the garage without opening the garage door. Improving the lighting means the garage can still be enjoyed or utilized after dark. Spread out lighting in the garage, and use a combination of overhead and task lighting just as one would in the home itself.

How do I deter bugs or other pests from entering?

Insects often want to hunker down in garages and may find it easy to get inside a garage. Keeping the garage clean and organized is the best way to deter pests and spot infestations before they become problematic, indicates Mosquito Joe pest control company. Reducing water and humidity in the space, weather proofing at the base of the garage door and other entry spots and utilizing insect repellents to make the garage less hospitable also can decrease the risk of insect infestation.