What are the Must-Have Home Features in Your New Home?

When it comes to choosing a new home you already have list of must haves from double sinks in the master to a wrap-around porch or even a certain number of bedrooms.  There are many things to choose from and consider and some are even deal breakers.  However, some of your must haves may not be possible when it comes to your budget or even what’s available in the area so you do have to lean a bit towards reality.  No home will have everything that is on your list and you do have to think of the long-term benefits.

While certain items may not matter to you, they may weigh heavily in determining the home’s resale value.  According to a report by Kiplinger, there are seven features that will help sell a home faster: a laundry room, exterior lighting, energy efficient appliance and windows, a patio, hardwood floors, garage storage space, and an eat-in kitchen.

For most homes these are more rooted as practicality and a classic case of what we need vs want.  You may want to consider adding the following to your list:

• Number of bedrooms and/or potential to turn a room into a bedroom
• Is the master bedroom big enough
• Are there enough bathrooms and are they in good shape
• Is the yard big enough and is there enough privacy
• Is the kitchen the right size and is it up-to-date
• Is there enough closet space in every bedroom
• Is the school district good
• Is the home close enough to your work
• Is it a new construction home or are you going to have a lot of updating to do 

All of these are just suggestions of what you should consider when you are buying a home but some can be extremely important when it comes to resale.

What do You Need to do to Finish Your Basement?

Finishing your basement is a great way to utilize space and add value/square footage to your home.  No matter how big or small your basement may be there are multiple steps that should be taken into consideration to transform your new space.  From formulating a floor plan to making final decoration touches, you need to plan carefully before diving into the product. 

Make a Plan- The first item you need to plan and think about is what you would like your basement to include.  Whether you are creating multiple rooms or have one big open area, you still want to make sure you have plenty of light.  Having a well-lit basement makes the area feel like less of a cave and more like a home.  If you basement does not have enough light, consider adding a window or two. To get started with your plans, you must discuss your needs with an architect.  Once your floor plan is established and your city permits are pulled/received you are ready to get started.

Hire Additional Specialists- Once the floor plan is established and approved, you will need to hire a carpenter to begin construction.  Your carpenter will follow the plans your architect put together but will leave the walls open temporarily for any specialized additions including electricity, gas, or plumbing.  If these items will be included in your basement remodel, you will need to hire a specialist to complete these items.  The specialist will also need to pull a permit for the job before moving forward.  A city inspector may need to review the work to ensure everything is up to code.  Once the inspector approves the job, your drywall will go up.

Choosing Flooring- Choosing your flooring for your basement can factor into the finishing process.  Installing carpet over a cement floor can be difficult and make lead to loosening from the foundation.  A more sturdy solution to floor is gluing tile or laminate wood to the unfinished floor.  You may add in area rugs to help break up the tile or laminate.

Paint and Decorate- Choosing paint and finishings can be a difficult decision to go with the plan you have chosen.  If you find it too difficult consider hiring a professional painter and interior designer to help you with the decision.