If you find yourself desiring more space in your home, a garage conversion is definitely something worth considering. However, there is much to consider before making the decision to convert your garage into a living space and Cavalier Builders is here to help. It’s important to weigh all your options before deciding to convert your garage.  

Why You Should Consider Converting Your Garage

When you feel as though your home has gotten a bit crammed, a garage conversion is a desirable option to enhance your space. When property values are low and expansion would be difficult and costly, this is a sensible option. There are also some potential downsides to a conversion. The decision to move forward with your conversion should be made carefully. It’s important to weigh out potential options and possible drawbacks.

Things to Consider Before Starting Your Project

A conversion doesn’t always add value to your home according to experts. It also depends on where you live. If your plan is to sell your home in the near future, a garage conversion probably isn’t for you. If your home is located in an area prone to adverse weather, a garage is usually something potential buyers are looking for. Take a look around the comparable homes in your neighborhood, if the majority of the homes have a garage then this is most likely a sought after feature. Converting your garage would decrease your chances of attracting multiple buyers.  

However, if you are located somewhere that greatly values square footage then the decision to convert your garage could potentially increase the value of your property. If you feel as though you are in the home you plan to live in forever then value and attracting buyers is of no concern to you. You may find a conversion worthwhile.

3 Reasons You Need to Consider the Costs?

1. Price ranges vary depending on the details of your preferences. The average garage conversion can cost anywhere from $8,000 to $25,000. Two of the biggest variables are the electrical and plumbing work. If you’re lucky, your garage will already have the electrical wired and may just need some upgrading. Costs can increase drastically once you start adding breakers to meet the requirements for your home. Your garage likely has a single light circuit and may need more outlets and receptacles for basic living conditions.
2. Plumbing can be a rather large expenditure depending on how you want to use your new space.  Adding a complete living space with a bathroom, shower, and space for cooking and cleaning will cost far more than just adding a half bathroom. Expect your plumbing installation to cost around $1,000 to $2,500. 
3. Don’t forget about your garage door. You will need to remove your existing garage door if you plan to maintain temperature comfort. Garage doors let in cold and heat making a living space uncomfortable in the peak months of summer and winter. Therefore you’ll probably want to have your space included into your HVAC system. Additionally, consider insulation, walls, floors, and ceilings.  

Permits and Laws

You will want to be sure to do your research and check local regulations to determine what permits are needed to convert your garage into a living space. Permits will likely be needed and can cost between $3,000 to $1,000. Of course, this will depend on where you live and the estimated cost of your project. In addition to permits, adding square footage to your home can increase your taxable square footage, especially if you’re in an area with high property taxes. 

Ready to Move Forward

If you’ve decided that converting your garage is the right move for you, call Cavalier Builders today and we can help you get the process started. Contact us at any of our locations in La Mirada, Hidden Hills, LA, and Woodland Hills CA at (866) 358-6385.