Bottom’s Up

A bevy of benefits to finally finishing that basement

The subject of many a horror film, the boogy man shouldn’t be the one living in your basement – it should be YOU instead. A basement doesn’t have to be some dank, dark place where moving boxes, broken tools, and old toys go to die. It should be a vibrant and well-used living space where laughter bounces off the walls and memories are made.  Instead of avoiding the task of descending the stairs only to be overwhelmed by the dust, spiderwebs and ugliness of its void, take a good look around with fresh new eyes and imagine the possibilities. If you’ve EVER entertained the idea of finishing your basement, here are a few beautiful benefits that may help push you in the right direction:

Paying it Forward: According to a recent study by Remodeling Magazine, basement remodeling boasts a really nice return on investment – a reported 70% cost to value.  A finished basement is something you and your family can enjoy for years to come, and when it comes time to move – will serve as a very nice selling point to potential buyers, giving you an edge over the competition.

Room to Grow: One of the most obvious benefits of finishing a basement can be found in the added square footage to your living spaces. Your needs – and even the size of your family – may have changed slightly since you first purchased the home. A basement offers a pre-existing space that – thanks to some drywall, flooring and lighting – can give your family more room to grow.

Blank Canvas: A basement represents the ideal “flex space” – it can be virtually anything you want it to be and serve nearly any purpose you need it to serve. From the ultimate man-cave or home theater, to an in-home gym or recreation space – sit down with your family to determine the best use of this space. Make a list of possibilities and take a vote. Once you decide, that will help shape the rest of the project.

Go With the Flow: Your basement remodel doesn’t have to stop at the backdoor!  You could flow your transformation right out the door and onto the terrace. If you have a lovely backyard (or have the potential for a lovely backyard) and plan to entertain regularly – you can continue certain design elements from your basement into outdoor living space. Imagine a room with a bar and overstuffed seating that flows out onto the terrace featuring an outdoor hearth and even more comfortable seating.

Home “Suite” Home: As the Baby Boomer Generation ages, more and more adult children are finding the need to determine how this next phase in their parents’ lives will play out. Faced with expensive alternatives such as a retirement community or supervised care “old folks home” – it’s nice to know one has a relatively cost-effective solution. A basement can be transformed into an in-law suite for aging parents. One that provides a kitchen, private entrance, full bathroom, living space and sleeping quarters – giving the parents we love a continued sense of independence – while keeping them close.

For even MORE Bottom’s Up inspiration, check out the Highlight Homes’ story “Dust Away the Cobwebs: Five Great Reasons to Finish Your Basement”. Once you’re ready to roll forward on that basement remodel, reach out to the talented team of designers and builders at Highlight Homes. We’ll come out to your home, walk through the space, and listen to your ideas, wants and needs. Then, we’ll take what we learn to draw up the ideal plans to make your dream basement a reality. The construction process can be complete in a matter of weeks, not months – and you can begin enjoying your new basement right away. Getting started is easy!  Call me and my team at 678.873.9234, e-mail us at info@highlighthomesga.com, or fill out our helpful online contact form TODAY!  To learn more about Highlight Homes, our commitment to quality craftsmanship, and our dedication to green construction practices – we invite you to visit us online at www.highlighthomesga.com.