Basement Renovation
Toledo Renovations — We’re Here to Turn Your Basement Renovation Dreams Into Reality
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When it comes to your basement renovation, there’s lots that can go into it and we want your basement to become the space you’re envisioning. Whether you want to transform it into an additional family room or turn it into a rental suite to help with your mortgage, your basement is a blank canvas waiting to become whatever you want. Based on our experience, here are a few helpful thoughts and steps to guide you on your reno journey.
Setting a Basement Renovation Budget
What is your budget going to be? Knowing this before we come in for an estimate will help you know what you have to work with and help us offer you a quicker and more accurate estimate that fits within your budget.
If you are turning your unused basement into a rental suite, allow for future income to play a part into how you decide your budget. The more you put into it on the front end, the more you will be able to rent the space for. Do your research beforehand to know what the market is for rental suites in your area, this will help you gauge what your income will be and how big your budget can be.
Design Ideas
When it comes to the design of your space, there’s endless inspiration for you to tap into. Pinterest is a great place to start as you can easily find inspiration for any design direction you want to take. Put together a Pinterest board (or an old school poster board!) and we’ll work with you to make your ideas come to life in your space.
Layout Planning
When it comes to your basement, especially if you want it to be a rental suite, you will want to think through layout, as well as design, on the front end. Consider the type of renters you hope to attract. What are they looking for? What will lead them to select your basement rental suite over others, and work backwards from there.
Most basements have electrical and plumbing already roughed-in. Try to layout your space in a way that works with these roughed-in locations, as having to move or add to what exists can add to the cost quickly.
What to Expect in a Contractor for Your Basement Renovation
As your contractor, we will be in constant communication with you — updating you on each step of the project. Please bring us all your questions, as there are no dumb questions!
We understand all the legal and safety precautions and requirements. We’ll obtain all needed permits throughout the build.
If there are ever any complications or unforeseen aspects that come to the surface, we will bring them to your attention, along with our proposed solutions.
Our goal is to work alongside you as we turn your current basement into a rental suite, an in-law suite, or your dream basement.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When it comes to your basement, we want to help you avoid as many mistakes and speed bumps as possible. As with any big project, there are many moving parts and without the right prep and care, those moving parts can unravel quickly.
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From the start, having a plan laid out is key. In our experience, leaving things to be figured out along the way can get overwhelming as there will be many decisions to be made. Each one can potentially affect the speed and efficiency of the overall project. When creating your basement renovation plan consider the following:
- What is your budget? Consider a range, leaving room for any “nice-to-have” items in addition to your “must-have” items.
- What are your top priorities? Consider how you’ll use the space today and in the future, as well as adding to the resale value if selling might be a possibility one day.
- When is the most convenient time to undertake this basement renovation project? How will you live and work around the disruption in your home?
- Are there structural elements to the renovation (e.g. removing walls) that need extra planning and attention in advance?
- What design theme or style do want for the finished room(s)?
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Another mistake to avoid in your basement is layout regret. While you are stuck with the footprint that already exists, put careful thought into how the space will be best used both now and in the future. If your basement has been used mostly as storage space, consider leaving a room within the new layout for storage. If you are building a rental suite, you want to balance an open feel with offering the most you can. While a two-bedroom suite will bump you up to a more profitable market, make sure you aren’t left with rooms that feel small and cramped.
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A simple mistake that can lead to headaches is not paying proper attention to soundproofing. Whether your new basement will be a family room, a home theater or a rental suite, proper soundproofing is something you’ll be glad to have. While it will add to the cost of the project, it will be worth every penny down the road.
Let’s Get Started on Turning Your Basement Renovation Dream into a Reality!
If you’re ready to renovate, contact us. We’d love to hear your wishlist for your basement renovation. We’ll come do a walk-through to see the space and hear your vision. We’ll then get you an estimate and talk you through what the timeline and process will be to get the correct permits and get started!