Finishing Your Basement
You’ve moved into a home with an unfinished basement. You may be wondering if you should spend the money to finish it or leave it as is? Here are some common basement issues to think about before making the decision.
Construction details matter. Creating walkable spaces and having good drainage is important when finishing your basement, but these thoughts may get lost in the shuffle when remodeling. Aim to keep the ceilings 8 feet or higher to ensure comfortable ways to move around the basement. And make sure to seal all cracks in the foundation of your home to prevent flooding. French drains or a sump pump may be a necessary installation to keep your new basement dry.
Not all space is equal. Many homeowners think that finishing their basement will instantly improve the value of their home. But be aware, above-grade space is still deemed more valuable than its lower-level counterpart. For example, take two homes: Home A with 2,500 square feet, all above-grade, and Home B with 2,000 square feet above, and 500 below-grade. All else being equal, Home A will always be valued higher than Home B, something potential renovators should know.
Most popular features: When finishing your basement, it’s a good idea to figure out what elements you’d like to include in the design. Some popular ways to renovate include adding these features: an in-law suite, a home theater, a sports bar/man cave, a workout room/personal gym or a playroom for kids.
As a Certified Residential Specialist and the MN Residential Real Estate Council Education Leader with multiple additional real estate designation, certifications, awards and experience, if you’re thinking of selling or buying, Sarah Marrinan would love to share her knowledge and expertise. Proudly servicing the Twin Cities, MN with extra focus in these areas: White Bear Lake, Hugo, Lino Lakes, Centerville, Vadnais Heights, Shoreview, Mounds View, Circle Pines, Mounds View, Mahtomedi, Forest Lake, Columbus, Wyoming, Saint Paul, Minneapolis, Roseville, Lake Elmo, Stillwater and Oakdale, MN.
Contact Sarah on this website at www.CallSarahFirst.com/contact
