If you are finally building your dream home, you might be wondering whether you should finish your basement now or later. Although there are pros and cons to finishing your basement during the build, in the long run, having it done during the build will provide the most benefits. Here are seven reasons why you should finish it now.
1. Everything is Move-In Ready
The best way to finish a basement is to do it now, as the entire home is move-in ready. You really don’t want trades parading through your brand-new home, even a year or two later. Instead, your beautiful, finished basement space is completely finished and you can settle in.
2. Possible Home Builder Incentives
Many home builders often offer incentives to complete your basement during the build. This can save you thousands of dollars. This is because they have access to all the finishes and basic materials at lower costs which they can pass on to you. In some cases, new build basement costs are barely noticeable as it is all included in the price of the build.
3. Improved Energy Efficiency
Although your home builder will complete the insulation as required by code for your basement, finishing the basement in a new house is far more energy-efficient. Things such as finished floors in hand with air sealing and more can save you money on your energy bills.
4. Increased Living Space
A finished basement offers tons of square footage you can enjoy. It can include an additional bathroom, a playroom, a place for the kids to hang out, and more. You can spread out and even create a lovely guest room if you host overnight guests often.
5. Improved Home Value
Although you probably aren’t planning to move soon, the improved home value provides you with peace of mind. You can access your equity if you decide to do something like adding a pool or professional landscaping. As well, sometimes life plans change, and you’ll see more return on your investment should you decide to sell sooner than you think.
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6. Consider a Rental
If you want to help cover the costs of your new home build, you can have your basement finished as a legal apartment at a fraction of the cost of doing it later. You can have a private entry, make sure the proper egress windows are installed and include a proper bathroom, and kitchen. This is also a great living space for aging parents, or if your kids are at university and might need a place to live when they graduate.
7. Part of Your Home Warranty
Newly built homes come with a home warranty. If you don’t have your basement finished, any work you have done later leaves you at the mercy of the contractor. All issues are covered by your warranty, so you have complete peace of mind.
How Long to Wait Before Finishing the Basement on a New Build
If you have heard you should wait to finish your basement, this is usually based on allowing the foundation to set. Some believe this allows the house to “settle” through the four seasons, so if any cracks occur you won’t face costly repairs due to possible leaks. However, your builder will ensure the proper steps are taken to avoid this issue. In the rare case, that something does go wrong, you are covered by your warranty.
Although you might be torn between whether you should finish your basement now or later, these seven points are proof that now is always better.
For more information about building your dream home, speak to the experts at DeSozio Homes today.
