Garage Conversions to Living Space in Birmingham, AL

The cost to convert a two-car garage can range from $21,000 to $50,000, depending on how much work goes into the conversion. The contractor will likely need to install electricity and running water if you want the space to be fully inhabitable without access to the main house. The price the professional charges for the labor they provide includes the knowledge, expertise, time, training, and skill they possess. Keep that in mind when you hire a contractor to do the work for you. Pricing different companies in the area is a wise thing to do because it can help you get the best price available for the work that you want done to the garage. Some contractors are more affordable than others. You wouldn't know, though, if you selected the first professional that you contacted. Getting price quotes from at least three professionals in the area can allow you to do the project within budget and on time, too.

Any addition done well will add value to your home. It's especially true if an additional bedroom is involved. People look for properties with multiple bedrooms and bathrooms because they have larger families. If you were to sell your home at a later date, you'd be able to get the asking price for it easier because you converted the garage. Keeping the cost of materials low is ideal for getting the most bang for your buck. Ask the contractor if there are places to buy secondhand or 'scrap' materials. Often, you'll be able to find exactly what you're looking for and have it cost significantly less. Best of all, you're keeping those items from going to the landfill and causing more waste.

To convert a garage into any living space, you must obtain the proper permits from the city and state you live in today. Some contractors will do the work for you and charge you the price to file paperwork with the appropriate parties. You can ask about the expense when you contact the professional to schedule your garage conversion. To avoid breaking the law, never skip this step because it could come back to hurt you. Ensuring that all building permits are visible location such as a window or screen door is ideal. If the city inspector drops by while the contractor is working on the conversion, there will be no issues with the build. The official sees that the proper permits are on file and goes about their day without putting a stop to your project. It's very important to display a permit where it can be viewed clearly, like taping it text side to glass.