Why Attic-to-Bedroom Conversions Bring a Massive Return
From Margaret on October 20th, 2010 in General Remodel
When you find yourself needing extra living space and you have no room to expand, consider remodeling what you already have. From 2009 to 2010, the attic-bedroom conversion ranked number two for highest return on investment in the Remodeling Cost vs. Value Report.
We’re not talking small change here. At a whopping 83.1% of average cost recouped nationally, this is one home improvement project you can feel safe investing your money in.
The trick is to shop smartly. First, get accurate price quotes for your project (meaning that a contractor comes to assess the attic for its livability), and then begin with repairs and comfort improvements that are needed right off the bat.
Why the attic, you ask? In addition to the fact that your family will gain an extra bedroom, recreation room or home office immediately, this addition will earn you a major spike in the resale value of your home. Plus, the ease with which a room conversion can be accomplished is rather astounding.
Where a new wing on a house can create almost as much work as building a small home from scratch, converting an attic provides an equally new space using resources you already have. The concern that additions can bring, such as creating continuity with the style of your existing house, gaining permits from the city, etc., are automatically eliminated with an attic addition.
Then, of course, there are the daily perks. With often the best view in the house, and residing farthest from the hustle and bustle, a converted attic can be an ideal bedroom for a baby, an aging parent (who’s OK with stairs, of course), a teenager, or even a guest.
Check with the housing restrictions in your area, consult with a contractor, and with comparative less stress, create for yourself a new space to enjoy for years to come.
Photo Credit: Light Locations, Richard Powers, & Paul Massey
October 21st, 2010 at 8:15 am
Margaret, you are absolutely correct that an attic conversion can add to the value and usable space of your home. Some items a homeowner should consider during their initial evaluation of the space include stairs, headroom, climate control, and flooring. Do permanent stairs lead to the attic? Most staircases need 10 to 14 square feet of floor space. Similarly, most municipalities require 7 ½ feet of head room in a living space. Is the ceiling high enough? Think about how to heat and cool the space. Will additional ducts and insulation be required? Consider the flooring. Is it sturdy enough to support a load of people and heavy furniture?