4 Benefits Of A Basement Conversion
Most of us who own homes with lofts or basements don’t really use them all that much. If we have unwanted clutter, we’ll stick it in the rooms above us or below without thinking too much. What we often don’t realize is that by doing so, we’re ignoring the potential to add living space to our homes - and to use it in ways that could save us money or even make us a bit of profit. And while loft conversions are very much en vogue, you don’t see as many conversions of basement space - which, as we will see, is regrettable considering their advantages…
They’re surprisingly energy-efficient
When a basement is left as-is, it is one of the main ingress points for cold air in winter and warm air in the summer, as it tends to be the point where insulation ends. Converting a basement means that you will be extending the insulation down below ground level, creating a better seal and ensuring a more energy-efficient home which stays warm more easily in the colder months, and vice versa.
A lot less work than most extensions
If you want to extend your house laterally, there will be a lot of structure you need to add; literal groundwork will need to be done as your garden becomes indoor space; and you’ll need to hope that it falls within planning regulations. A loft conversion has fewer issues, but will still require major strengthening of floors and walls which can get complicated. Your basement, meanwhile, is literally foundational to the house, so there is less work involved in turning it into living space.
Adding a wow factor means adding value
A house that stands out is a house that people will remember. When house hunters chat about which houses they like, it’s useful to be the people in the house that can be summed up in a couple of words. “That one with the basement entrance” rolls off the tongue, particularly if you make the conversion a showpiece. A dynamic terrace, some ground-level lighting and a call to an egress window company to sort a perimeter fence, and you have a standout basement conversion. One which will live in the memories of potential buyers when you come to sell the house.
It maximizes space in high-value areas
In districts where real estate is expensive, it can be hard to find housing that offers all the space a family needs. Building up can run you into difficulties with local residents’ associations, but there is no such problem with extending down the way. If you have space for four bedrooms where most homes only have three, you can price the house affordably in comparison with other houses and still make a big profit. There doesn’t need to be a compromise made to offer you a quick sale and a decent profit all in one.
Converting your basement makes a lot of sense when you want to add space and luxury in a home, and the benefits go beyond that. If you’re looking to make an impactful change to your place, this is the place to start.
