There is a good reason for the garage to be one of your top concerns when you are trying to add value to your home before you sell. According to Remodelling Magazine, a garage door replacement is the second most valuable home improvement, as you’ll recoup 94% of your investment. But, while you’re changing the door, should you finish the garage and add heating? Especially in our climate, heating can be a big draw for buyers.
The Value of a Heated Garage
Why might buyers be drawn to a home with a heated garage? In our climate, working in the garage is challenging most months of the year. This is a big disadvantage for those who work with cars, have hobbies they complete in the garage, or who want to spend time entertaining in the garage. Adding heating can immediately make your space more appealing to these buyers, and there are a lot of them.
Adding heating can be more successful if you also add basic flooring to the garage. Lifting your feet off the concrete helps to retain heat and make the space more functional. You might also consider adding custom cabinetry to the garage as well, as it can also help raise the value of your home.
However, the price tag does add up a bit. Some estimate that finishing the garage could add up to $10,000, depending on the kind of heating system you’re adding and the other finishes that the space needs. It is easier to justify this cost if you will also plan to use the heated garage before you sell the home.
Unsure about adding heating to your garage? Our experts at Guelph ClimateCare are here to help. Contact us today to learn more.
Finished Garage vs. Living Space
When you’re finishing the garage, resist the urge to turn it into a living space. This can actually deter buyers, most of whom do not want to bother with the extra living space and won’t find it as functional as a normal garage. There are often big safety and building code concerns that come along with this. Some homeowners even find that they need to turn their garage back into a space you can park in before they can sell the home.
Before Your Upgrade Your Garage
Check in with local real estate agents before you make any decisions about renovating your home. You want to make sure that the upgrades that you add are actually desired in your specific neighbourhood before you invest money in them.
But, if adding heating to your garage is the right move for you, then reach out to Guelph ClimateCare. Our professionals can help you choose the right heating system for your garage while helping you to maximize your return. Reach out today.
