If your Milwaukee home is fortunate enough to have a basement, upgrading it might seem like a monumental undertaking, but it’s well worth the investment of time and money. Upgrading an unfinished basement can boost any home’s value and help you sell a house fast in Milwaukee. If you’re thinking about giving your basement a makeover, here are some tips to help you get started
1. Check Local Laws
It’s always best to check if you need permission to finish your basement. Start by inquiring about the criteria and permit fees from your local authorities. Given that basement work is hidden from the street, some homeowners may be inclined to omit this phase to save money. If you are discovered to be operating without a permit, though, you may be fined heavily. A permit is required for the work of reputable contractors, and hiring an unlicensed contractor may result in subpar and dangerous work. Also, unpermitted improvements may frighten prospective buyers during home inspections, leading them to back out or renegotiate.
2. Choose Your Layout
Although open floor plans are typically preferred by buyers, renovating a basement requires navigating load-bearing walls and appliances like furnaces, electrical boxes, and water heaters. Talk to your contractor about what’s possible before making any plans. According to the Zillow Group Consumer Housing Trends Report 2018, 60% of buyers consider a spare or guest bedroom essential. Adding a guest bedroom in the basement could be a smart move if your home lacks one.
3. Avoid Drop Ceilings
Don’t include drop ceilings in your basement renovation plans. They can conceal mechanicals and pipelines. If you want to raise the value of your house, do away with the drop ceilings.
4. Regulate the Air Quality
Invest in an air purification system for your new basement for fresh, clean air because you’ll probably be there often. A purifier is particularly crucial in small spaces without airflow. An air purifier will keep your basement smelling as lovely as it appears.
5. Prioritize Lighting
Utilized the natural light to improve the space’s appeal to potential buyers and your enjoyment. If natural light isn’t an option, find ways to add more light to a traditionally dark space. If you want to brighten the area without lowering the ceiling, use recessed lighting.
A Better Way to Sell My House Without Costly Renovations
We get it—remodeling a basement is a big project with a big price tag. A full basement remodel can cost between $55,000 and $70,000 (or more) for every 1,000 square feet. The final cost depends on your budget and the materials you choose. If you’d rather avoid the hassle and expense of renovations but still want to sell your house at a reasonable price, consider cash home buyers in Milwaukee. At Metro Milwaukee Home Buyer, we make selling your home easy, quick, and hassle-free. We buy houses in Milwaukee for cash, no matter their condition or location.