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Many of us are looking for just a little bit more space in our homes. Luckily if you have an unused (or underused) garage creating more space can be as simple as converting it into a practical, useful and comfortable room. As a bonus, a garage conversion can also increase your home’s market value in addition to allowing you to use every square foot of your property. Before you dive in, there are 3 main things you need to consider.

1. What Is The Best Use of the Space?

A garage conversion is a big project and a big decision to make so it’s extremely important that you take the time to give serious thought as to what the best use for the space will be. An extra room offers many opportunities and it’s up to you to determine which one will add the most value to your home and your enjoyment of it.

 

Adding extra living space is one of the most popular conversions among homeowners whether that means adding an extra bedroom for an expanding family, creating a new living room or extending the kitchen. Other common conversions include turning the garage into a home office, an entertainment room, home gym or a children’s playroom.

You should also consider whether you want to have a full conversion or a partial one that will still leave you with enough storage space for large yard equipment, bikes or even an extra fridge. When you’re planning your conversion, think about the way you’re currently using the garage and plan out how you can compensate for the loss of that function. This may include finding alternate parking or different storage options.

2.    What Outside Help Will You Need?

It’s also a good idea to talk to any friends or neighbors who have already done a garage conversion to get their experiences and some inspiration. After you have done this, it’s crucial that you consult with an expert. Conversion professionals and local building contractors can offer you invaluable insight into the entirety of the work load, pricing and permits you will need to complete the conversion quickly and efficiently. This initial consultation will also let you know how much of the project you will be able to DIY and on what areas you will need outside help. Working with local building companies may also make it easier to navigate any planning permits and stick to your local building codes.

3.    What Are the Total Costs of the Project?

When it comes to the cost of a conversion, you may come across many different numbers being thrown around. However, the final cost of the project will ultimately depend on your individual situation. The scale of the conversion, any existing issues with the garage and the materials you want to use will all have an effect on the final estimate.

Don’t take a set number for granted, get quotes from several different contractors and add up the cost of different materials (including delivery.) If you will be adding pipes, doing electrical work, or adding insulation those costs should also be included in your initial estimate. Always put aside more than the estimate to cover any unexpected situations.