There are many factors you need to consider when remodeling or finishing your basement. It's important to maintain the same quality of finish but the space's appearance will be different. How the new space will look depends on its purpose. Different types of remodeling will require different materials and work. Plan for any unexpected delays, outages or family emergencies.
Before you start a basement remodeling project, make sure it is dry and well insulated. You can start your home remodeling project by waterproofing the basement. However, before you start the project, make sure to check for mold, mildew, and moisture. This can also happen if the basement is very cold and it is difficult to open windows in the winter. This problem can be avoided by installing a dehumidifier that will keep your basement comfortable throughout the year.
Consider filling your basement with light-filtering material if it has windows. This will keep out any unwanted light. While the materials you use will depend on your home, you can't skip this step. Make sure to have a subfloor that is strong enough to protect the flooring from concrete and water. You will be happy with the outcome and will enjoy the additional living area. Once you have chosen a design, it is time to choose the materials you want to make your basement as comfortable as possible.
Depending on the size and shape of your basement, you can choose from several different flooring options. A basement is best suited for carpeting because it feels warm underfoot. Hardwood can also be a good option, since it is warm underneath. Radiant floor heating can be a great option if you don't need to replace the entire floor. You can save a substantial amount of money this way. If you don’t need additional rooms, you can refinish existing floors.
In addition to living space, you can add bedrooms and bathrooms to your basement. You can use the basement as storage space or even as an office. A basement remodeling project can make your space more useful and less expensive, depending on your specific needs. In fact, many people use their basement as a second or third bedroom, as it's more practical. You can increase the value of your basement by adding a kitchen to it.
Your basement could be worth more if you add a bedroom. This can make your basement more accessible for everyone. A well-finished basement is a great space that can be used for fun and practical purposes. Just make sure to choose your space wisely. If you're unsure what to do with the space ask your contractor for a cost estimate. Plan your project. If you're remodeling the entire basement, you'll be able to make it more valuable and flexible.
FAQ
How can I avoid getting ripped off when renovating my house?
The best way to avoid being ripped off is to know what you are paying for. Read the fine print before signing any contract. Blank contracts should not be signed. Always ask for copies of signed contracts.
What are my considerations when purchasing a new house?
You need to ensure you have enough funds available to cover closing costs before you buy a home. You may want to refinance your mortgage if there isn't enough cash.
Do I need an architect or builder to help me?
It might be easier to have someone else do the work if you're planning on renovating your own house. An architect or builder is a good option if you plan to buy a new house.
Statistics
- They'll usually lend up to 90% of your home's "as-completed" value, but no more than $424,100 in most locales or $636,150 in high-cost areas. (kiplinger.com)
- Rather, allot 10% to 15% for a contingency fund to pay for unexpected construction issues. (kiplinger.com)
- It is advisable, however, to have a contingency of 10–20 per cent to allow for the unexpected expenses that can arise when renovating older homes. (realhomes.com)
- On jumbo loans of more than $636,150, you'll be able to borrow up to 80% of the home's completed value. (kiplinger.com)
- Design-builders may ask for a down payment of up to 25% or 33% of the job cost, says the NARI. (kiplinger.com)
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How To
How much money do I need to spend on my old house's restoration?
The cost of renovating your home depends on how many rooms you want to update, what kind of renovations you plan to do, where you live, and whether you're doing it yourself or hiring professionals. Depending on the scope and size of the project, the average renovation cost is between $10,000 and $50,000.
If you're planning to sell your home after the renovation, you'll likely receive less than market value if you don't take into account the costs of repairs, upgrades, and improvements. You might even lose money if you put too little effort into making your home look its best before selling. However, investing enough energy and time into improving the appearance of your home can help increase the value you get for it when you list it.
These factors will help you choose which projects to start first.
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Your budget. If you have a limited budget, start small. If you have a limited budget, it is possible to tackle one room at time, such painting walls or replacing flooring. A contractor who specializes is kitchen remodeling can be hired to make significant changes in your home without spending a lot.
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What are your priorities? You decide what you are going to do with your home. One issue can become a major problem quickly, so it's important to choose a single area. It is possible to end up replacing your roof sooner than anticipated if your roof leaks whenever it rains.
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Your timeline. Consider your timeline. For instance, if your goal is to purchase a new property next year, it might be a good idea to wait to install hardwood floors or to replace bathroom fixtures. Instead, you might wait until you move out of your existing home to make those updates.
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Your skills. If you lack certain skills needed to perform a given project, find someone else to handle them. If you are unable to carpenter custom cabinets, hiring a cabinet maker may be an option.