Kids have gone back to school, the summer feels like it has gone, and the odd leaf starts to fall….Basement season has surely started. Like clockwork we start getting phone calls and emails from folks that want their basements finished and renovated, ready for the colder months ahead. Most have a good idea of what they want in terms of layout and functionality of the space. Some look for advice and guidance. They know that Mark and I have seen and renovated a fair few basements in our time, and like to know what they can and cant do.
Currently we are renovating two basements in Mississauga. One will be a family room with bathroom and home theatre, but the other is an in-law suite with a twist. We are taking out the wrap around construction stairs and having our carpenter put in a new set of custom stairs for a chair lift to be fitted. Our clients are looking to have a relative move in and the stair lift will offer far greater ease of access for her. I’ll confess I have never seen one being put in, and am looking forward to seeing it in action once fitted.  But its a great illustration of how flexible a new space in the basement can be, with a little forward planning and some research. We will finish off the rest of the basement as we normally would; checking for any moisture issues before throwing up walls, putting down a quality sub-floor, insulating the walls for maximum energy efficiency. A small kitchenette will also go in, as well as a  full bathroom, living room, and bedroom.
Rental spaces are also getting popular. We have just booked a basement renovation that will turn their unused basement into a self-contained rental apartment. As well as the usual living spaces, we will also be putting in a walk-out that will serve as the tennants’ own entrance, and a couple larger windows to maximise the natural light. Once renovated the apartment will provide the Homeowners a great source of income for the time they live in the house, and fantastic re-sale value when they decide to move on. Such homes can really increase their value once a basement  apartment has been put in, and easily double the investment of the renovation, or more. After all, with a fantastic looking basement apartment practically paying your mortgage, and no sharing of your own family space upstairs, who wouldn’t be tempted in buying such a house?

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