Expertise in Primary Suite Additions

 

Top Improvements That Add Value To Your Home

 

Expert Home Building and Renovation Services

 

What To Consider When Converting a Garage Into a Living Space

 With home prices up and housing inventory down, more homeowners are considering renovating their current homes over moving. A recent survey by Discover Home Loans astoundingly found that 79% of homeowners would rather renovate their current home than move to a different one. “Today, converting a garage is a popular option for adding extra living space. But, like any home renovation project, there are things a homeowner should consider before diving into the project,” explains St. Louis Park full-service general contractor and remodeling expert, Executive Remodeling.

“Converting a garage has advantages and drawbacks,” says the home renovation company. “It is vital that you ask the right questions to determine if this, or another home addition or renovation option is right for you.”

What Are Alternative Parking and Storage Options if You Convert a Garage?

One of the first and most basic things to consider before converting a garage is how the conversion would impact parking and storage. If cars, tools, or other belongings need secured shelter, converting the garage may not be the best option. Another consideration is whether other restrictions could impact parking, such as no street parking or the necessity of having a certain number of parking spaces per dwelling of that size. If there is adequate parking and alternative storage, such as a shed, then a garage conversion may be an excellent and cost-effective solution.

How Much Does a Garage Conversion Cost?

The cost to convert a garage depends on many factors, such as the project's scope. Plumbing and electrical needs are two of the most significant variables, but there are others, such as HVAC requirements. Transforming a garage into a livable space requires meeting additional local building codes, which can involve many elements since it was created for a different purpose.

Does a Garage Conversion Add Value

Whether or not a garage conversion adds value and how much can be tricky. While adding livable square footage to the home can add value, not having a garage can decrease its desirability, especially if future homeowners want to keep their cars out of the elements. It helps to speak to a real estate expert to determine how it could add or detract from a home’s value.

Are There Other Options?

While converting a garage is a popular option for adding extra livable space, it is not necessarily the best or even the most economical choice for everyone. It is important to talk to a home renovation company about options, such as converting only part of a garage, or adding space elsewhere, such as above the garage, onto the back of the house, or even as a separate ADU unit, and compare how these options add value.

Talking to a home renovation company can help compare options and uncover options that may not have been considered. “Garage renovations are an excellent choice for a lot of homeowners, but it is always important to look at all of the options. Sometimes, something as simple as moving a few walls can transform underutilized spaces such as a loft will add space and value,” concludes Executive Remodeling.

Minneapolis-St. Paul Home Renovation Company

Have you been searching “home renovation company near me” online? Leading St. Louis Park home renovation company Executive Remodeling has over 20 years of dedicated industry experience. The full-service general contracting company specializes in design, remodeling, and insurance restoration. Contact the team by calling (612) 230-1561 to schedule a free consultation.

Executive Remodeling
5810 W 36TH ST UNIT B
ST LOUIS PARK MN 55416-5108

Top Types of House Additions and How to Choose the Right One

 There are many reasons to consider a room addition, such as accommodating a growing family or making space for aging family members. “A home addition is a major undertaking, but one that is worthwhile,” says St. Louis Park full-service general contractor and design and remodeling expert, Executive Remodeling. “But, the project needs to begin with homeowners identifying their goals and then considering the top options for achieving them.”

How to Choose Options for Adding More Space to Your Home

Before choosing options for house additions, it is important to consider several factors. Executive Remodeling suggests asking these things:

• How do you intend to use the space?
• Will the type of addition meet the intended need?
• How disruptive is the project?
• What are the cost differences? 

What are the Types of House Additions?

Depending on the property type, space, and other factors, many different types of house additions exist. Here are the most popular options. 

Attic or Basement Conversion

Although technically not a “house addition,” converting existing attic or basement space into livable space is probably the most common way to add additional living space without changing the actual footprint of the home. Attic spaces are best for creating an additional bedroom, while basement spaces are more accessible for downstairs apartments for aging adults or rentable spaces.

This option is typically cost-effective and provides a significant return on investment. However, the attic or basement must meet many code requirements before it can be considered for conversion.

Conventional House Additions

A conventional house addition is open to and adds additional space to the main house. It may include adding a large family room, extra bedrooms, or a dining room. It might include building up, such as adding a second story or building out. These house additions are intended to expand the home’s living space but may also be used to create a separate living space, such as an apartment. 

ADUs

An ADU or accessory dwelling unit is a small independent living unit. It includes a small kitchen or kitchenette, a bathroom, a bedroom, and sometimes a small living area. These are ideal for young adults, as living spaces for aging parents, or as rentable units. ADUs are not permitted in all areas, so it is important to check local regulations. Some advantages of ADUs include providing a private space and less disruption during the building process. 

Garage Conversions or Additions

Another popular way to add extra living space is to leverage the garage, which might include converting part of, or the entire garage into a livable space. The project may involve making it a separate living space, such as a casita, or converting it into a living or family room.

Another option is to utilize the existing garage structure and build an apartment above it. This option is ideal for young adults or for creating rentable space. Because it is upstairs, it may not be as accessible for anyone with mobility issues. 

Talk to the Experts in House Additions

Before beginning any project, it is important to talk to experts in house additions. An experienced home renovation company can answer common questions, present options, and help avoid common mistakes. 

Minneapolis-St. Paul Home Additions

Providing the best house additions in St. Louis Park, Executive Remodeling has over 20 years of dedicated industry experience. The full-service home renovation company specializes in the design, remodeling, and insurance restoration. Contact the team by calling (612) 230-1561 to schedule a free consultation.

Executive Remodeling
5810 W 36TH ST UNIT B
ST LOUIS PARK MN 55416-5108

Top Questions to Ask a Bathroom Remodeling Services Company

 Bathroom remodels are among the most popular and costly home remodeling projects. That’s why it is vital to ask the right questions before hiring bathroom contractors for bathroom remodeling services, says St. Louis Park full-service general contractor and design and remodeling expert, Executive Remodeling.

“Knowing what to ask about bathroom remodeling services can help homeowners avoid many problems later down the road. The right questions will identify true professionals, clear up any misconceptions, help set expectations, and set the course for success.”

Industry experts recommend asking these top questions about bathroom remodeling services: 

Are You Licensed and Insured? 

Before hiring any remodeling contractor, make sure they are licensed and adequately insured according to state standards. Insurance protects the homeowner if the home gets damaged during construction or if workers are hurt on site. Hiring a licensed and insured contractor protects the homeowner if the contractor does not pay workers or permits or fails to complete the project. A qualified professional will be happy to show proof of all of these things. 

Can You Show Me Past Work?

Always look for a portfolio of past bathroom remodeling services, especially projects requiring specialty products. A strong body of work is a good indicator of skill and experience. 

Have You Done Jobs of this Size and Scope Before? 

The remodeling industry is vast and filled with many different products and practices. Never assume that a contractor has experience in all aspects of bathroom remodeling. Ask if they have experience in projects of similar size and scope and if they have experience working with the desired materials.  

How Many Projects Do You Run at Once?

It is important to work with bathroom remodeling services that will make the client their top priority. Ask how many projects they work on at one time, how often they will be onsite, and what type of oversight they provide.

What is the Project Timeline?

Ask how long each project stage will take and what factors could impact the completion deadlines. A great contractor will be happy to communicate deadlines and be accountable for project timelines. 

Who Needs to Pull Permits?

Before hiring a contractor, ask who will need to pull permits. If a contractor is unwilling to get them, it may be a sign that they are not licensed. 

What is Your Daily Work Process?

Having workers in the home can be an inconvenience. Ask about the daily work process, hours, and how they will leave the project at the end of each day. 

What is Your Communication Style and Process?

Find out how available the contractor is to answer questions and concerns and how they handle any problems, should they arise. Talk to past clients and ask if they are satisfied with the level of communication provided. 

What Does the Contract Cover?

Review the contract carefully. Ask the contractor to be explicit about what is and is not included in the contract. While remodeling projects are always subject to changes, it is crucial to set clear expectations from the very start. 

Minneapolis-St. Paul Top Bathroom Remodeling Services

Providing the best bathroom remodeling services in St. Louis Park, Executive Remodeling has over 20 years of dedicated industry experience. The full-service home renovation company specializes in design, remodeling, and insurance restoration. Connect with the team by calling (612) 230-1561 to schedule a free consultation.

Executive Remodeling
5810 W 36TH ST UNIT B
ST LOUIS PARK MN 55416-5108