A custom garage isn’t the first home improvement that Ft. Myers’ residents think about when talking about upgrading their home, but it is one of the most cost efficient improvements a homeowner can make. Typically these spaces include a specialty floor coating, air conditioning and heating, and a customized area for home and craft projects, laundry, or entertainment. In some higher-end upgrades, they can also include additional square footage.
Homeowners have discovered that their upgraded garages come in handy for a lot more than storing vehicles. If you’re thinking about upgrading your home but have a limited budget, think about these advantages to investing in the garage.
- Increase home value. In Florida, any square footage that is heated and cooled is allowed to be counted as usable home space when putting the home up for sale. If you have a two car garage, you can add over 200 square feet to your home without building any extra walls. Even if you don’t want to extend your existing heating and cooling system, simply having a workshop space and premium flooring can add thousands of dollars of value to your home when it comes time to sell.
- The ability to store valuable equipment. Right now, you probably just use your garage to store your cars and lawnmower. With an upgraded garage, however, it’s possible to use the space to store electronics, good lawn equipment, and even business supplies without worrying about how the extreme temperatures will affect these items.
- Versatility. While very few people use their garage as a spare bedroom, it is possible to use it as an overflow area for parties and family gatherings if it is upgraded properly. A good floor, heat system, and extra attention to it air permeability can make it a good space to host Thanksgiving dinner. A garage with an extended work bench can become a good space to host the local Cub Scout troop meeting.
- The ability to start a business. Depending on how you design the garage space, it is possible to set up a home business. A wood shop can be used to create crafts that are sold online. An office space with a separate entrance can be added that can host almost any type of business. This can be a great way to earn some extra money. Best of all, if the upgrade is used solely for a business, the cost of construction and the ongoing maintenance costs of the space (heating, cooling, water, etc.) can be deducted from your taxes.
Royal Palm Closet
12830 Metro Parkway – Unit 10
Fort Myers, FL 33966
(239) 768-2391