When you’re in the market to improve your home, there are a number of options to consider. You can upgrade your kitchen, add an apartment to your home, or even convert your basement into a one-bedroom dwelling.
When it comes to home improvement, the bathroom and kitchen are on the front lines. Considering the fact that many households operate on a tight budget, it’s no surprise that these spaces are where it’s at. Fortunately, a well-planned and executed renovation can pay dividends. Despite the challenges, there are plenty of pros who can help you get the job done. Contact Lawrenceville Home Improvement for professional expertise.
The newest trend in bathrooms is to replace whirlpool tubs with walk-in showers. While the upgrade is not cheap, it is the most cost-effective way to get the most out of your budget. Among other benefits, you’ll be able to enjoy more room for relaxing and recharging your batteries.
As you plan out your next big upgrade, make sure you keep an eye on the local real estate market. You might be surprised at what’s available on the market. With a little planning and forethought, you can find a good fit for you and your family. If you’re not ready to commit to a remodel, consider purchasing a fixer-upper to renovate yourself.
Although the best bathroom and kitchen upgrades will cost a fair bit of money, it’s worth the effort to make the most of your space. For instance, a kitchen with outdoor access is a plus for a lot of families. Likewise, a more open floor plan can allow for more light and better ventilation, which can reduce utility costs in the long run. Whether you’re looking for a full-fledged kitchen overhaul or just a few spruced-up cabinetry, there are a handful of professionals who can help you. Make sure to check out their websites for more information. They are all listed in the House & Home Directory. Hopefully, these tips will save you time and money. Lastly, keep in mind the old adage: “Always leave your home in good shape.” Regardless of how often you change out your locks or do the laundry, it’s a good idea to have a plan in place.
Converting your basement into a one-bedroom apartment can add housing to your neighborhood and provide a new source of rental income. Basement apartments are a critical supplement to the housing stock, offering financial stability to underserved families. But it can be a complicated process.
One of the first steps is obtaining a building permit. Then you need to meet certain requirements to get a certificate of occupancy. There are several legal factors that will influence the cost of converting your basement into an apartment. Some of these include insulation, ventilation, wiring, and the number of bathrooms and bedrooms.
You may also want to consider converting your basement into an in-law suite. An in-law unit will be very spacious. This can be accomplished through a retaining wall, excavation, and a foundation amendment.
You will need to decide on the number of bedrooms, bathrooms, and closet space you need for your basement apartment. The best way to determine this is to take a look at local apartment listings. Once you have this information, you can start figuring out a layout. A layout should include a living room, kitchen, and dining area. It should also have a separate exterior entrance.
To make your basement apartment more livable, you will need to consider lighting and sound-buffering materials. In addition, you should consider adding windows and enlarging a walk-out door. If possible, install an outdoor sitting area.
A basement is also a great place for a nanny or au pair. However, you will need to ensure that your home meets all the code requirements for a basement. Also, you will need to work with a contractor to do the drywall installation, electrical, and plumbing. They can provide technical assistance and a no-interest loan if you are in need of additional funds.
Another option is to rent out your unfinished basement. However, this may not be the best idea for all homeowners. Not only does this require the proper permits, but it can be very costly to do so.
