Should you think about garage conversion in Bay Area once you’ve outgrown the existing space in your home? That is a pertinent question! Several Bay Area property owners who live in congested homes may find it useful to convert their garages into living spaces. It may make sense in these locations where real estate developments are challenging, and property values are low due to the after-effects of the pandemic situation. However, you will be better off if you carefully analyze your options before starting your project.
Here are 5 things to consider before deciding on converting your garage into a living area:
- Value Addition
Most realtors agree that turning the garage into a living space does not necessarily increase the value of the property. It varies depending on where you reside. Likewise, it’s usually not a smart idea to convert your garage if you intend to sell your house in the coming days. It can virtually decrease the value of your home if you reside in a snowy region where garages are converted.
However, if square footage has a worth in your location, turning your garage into a living area could raise the value of your home and benefit you when it comes time to sell. Besides, transforming your garage into a living space might be a decent choice if you’ve been in your residence for a while and aren’t bothered about its market value.
- Cost Factor
According to experts, converting a garage might cost substantially. Electrical and plumbing works are two notable concerns. Depending on what you want to accomplish with your living space, especially adding a bathroom, plumbing might rapidly turn into a significant investment.
Although most garages currently have some type of electrical wiring, it probably needs to be upgraded. Expect to add at least one additional 20-amp circuit to your garage since most garages only facilitate one lighting circuit. The new living space’s heating and cooling system, insulation, walls, floors, and ceilings, as well as security, are some critical concerns to consider.
- Equipment and Vehicle Storage
Choose a location for storing your vehicle, tools, and other items. If you reside in an area where building a carport will adequately shelter your cars from external elements, you may consider doing so. If not, you’ll need to choose a different place nearby. Check your neighborhood for any paid parking garages, or ask your neighbors if they have any additional garage space that you may utilize.
If you reside in an area where building a carport will adequately protect your cars from external elements, you may consider doing so. If not, you’ll need to choose a different place nearby. Check your neighborhood for any paid parking garages, or ask your neighbors if they have any additional garage space that you may utilize.
- Codes and Permits
Make sure to find out what permissions are necessary and what local codes apply before converting a garage into a home. A building permit is likely something you’ll need, and it might cost a reasonable amount. However, it depends on where you stay and how much your project is expected to cost.
Apart from a permit, you must accept that you are developing additional square feet of dwelling space on your land. It’s something to think about if you live in a high-tax municipal area.
- Better Alternatives
Has there a preferable substitute? You might, for instance, just add a room to your existing house. Usually, additions are more convenient to add to the existing home and allow homeowners to experience a better result.
Installing a residential unit above your garage may be a better option for resale since it provides you the space you need while maintaining your present garage simultaneously.
Conclusion
These are a few crucial considerations that Bay Area homeowners should contemplate. For more garage conversion updates, feel free to revert to us. We shall be pleased to oblige you anytime!