For potential buyers, the basement might disclose everything
from foundation fractures and musty aromas to code-breaking utility
installations and inappropriate wall supports. If visitors experience problems
like these, they may choose to leave rather than fill out a credit application.
On the other hand, finishing a basement is a difficult task. Because humidity
and moisture make it the most unstable level in a home, there are a lot of
moving pieces.
With this in mind, restoring a basement entails more than
just the flow and aesthetics — it also entails the foundation, furnace,
flooring, and overall functionality of the property. So, how do you repair a
basement on a budget without jeopardizing safety? To learn more, keep reading.
Keep an eye out for dampness
symptoms.
The last thing you want to do is finish a basement in the
winter just to have it flood in the spring. Make sure the room is clear of
cracks and moisture before you begin renovating.
Make the layout of your home as open
as possible.
When it comes to the general use of the area, keep a lot of
options open while refurbishing a flip because you never know who your customer
will be. Don't become too engrossed with the plan; just construct the external
walls and leave the door open. This is, after all, a "anything
space."
Seal pest entry spots on the outside.
The worst type of roommate is one that eats leftover food
crumbs and then throws them in your walls. Seal any outside entry points to
keep the rodents out. Prospective purchasers are likely to be turned off by
rodents and insects.
Make sure to include a storage area.
The majority of individuals want a huge storage place in
their basement. One benefit of including one is that you will save money on
finishing costs because it will not be done in the same manner as the rest of
the basement. 2x4s and 3/4-inch plywood are used to make simple storage racks.
This will set you back a few hundred dollars, but it will appeal to potential
clients.
Observing the Budget
When dealing with a dated wood-paneled basement that passed
the home inspection with flying colors, paint can be the greatest option for a
low-budget conversion. There's a good chance you'll find more than you
bargained for when you open the walls, which increases the risk of going over
budget. If you don't have the funds to completely renovate your home, make it
presentable till you do.
Any upgrades that aren't immediately
apparent should be photographed.
Take process shots and inform your real estate agent so that
interested buyers are aware if you make changes that aren't immediately visible
(such as waterproofing, subfloors, and premium insulation).
Bulkheads must be concealed.
The ability to conceal all of the mechanical components that
feed the rest of the house is one of the most difficult aspects of basement
architecture. We've all had to deal with unattractive bulkheads, and while
they're important, working around them may be difficult. Rather than creating
uninviting boxes, stretch the bulkheads you've built wall-to-wall to conceal as
many as possible within the walls and ceilings.
Carefully select your flooring.
Because of the variable humidity levels in basements, true
hardwood is rarely observed due to wood objects expanding and compressing
beyond their stipulated capacity. As a result, laminate flooring is becoming
increasingly popular (not to mention its lower price point and easy
installation). With the exception of basements, the first item I remove in a
redesign is wall-to-wall carpeting. In the basement, I actually like a nice
soft carpet since it makes the place feel more inviting.
Perfect light
Pot lights are popular in basements because of their
low-profile design, which complements low ceilings. Unfortunately, they can be
quite costly. If pot lights aren't available, track lighting is a viable
option. In comparison to a single light in the center of the room, installing
two evenly spaced ceiling lights feels more modern.
Incorporating rough-ins for the
Income Suite is a good idea.
The expense of a basement makeover can quickly mount up,
making it difficult to budget for an income suite. Consider having kitchen
rough-ins built if you're currently piping for a basement washroom. For some
people, this is a huge selling point because it allows them to get a head start
on a future income stream without spending a fortune.
Obtain a home inspection.
This is perhaps the most crucial piece of advise we hear:
have a house evaluated thoroughly before you buy it. Don't rely solely on your
realtor's advice; in order to sell the house, they may hire a less thorough
inspector. This inspection will serve as your remodeling bible, ensuring that
the home receives an A when potential purchasers inspect it.