For many people, the basement is the forgotten corner of the home.

The basement is ignored, left in the dark, and used as nothing more than a storage area. However, while this might be people’s default attitude, it’s not the best option. Far from it! Basements are enormous, in some cases they take up the entire footprint of the home. That’s a lot of space that you could be putting to good use.

And because the space has been relatively unused, you’ll have the freedom to add something of real value to your home. Below, we take a look at a few essential tips that’ll ensure you end up with a basement that’s right for you. 

What’s the Purpose of Your Basement?

Before you’re able to take your first steps, you’ll need to know where you’re trying to get to. So when you’re developing your plans, think about what the purpose of the room will be. There are multiple options, and which you choose will depend on your needs.

For example, you could set up a home office, and work effectively away from the rest of the house. Or you could set up a bar lounge area, complete with some games and a projector for movie nights. Alternatively, you could create another bedroom, which is a great option for growing families. 

Handling Issues

If you’re going to make your converted basement a comfortable space, then you’ll need to handle those issues that could make it an enjoyable space to be in. There’s a reason why these places have to be converted, and can’t just stay as they are: they’re often dark and damp.

To keep water — and all the problems it brings — away, make sure that you work with a company that offers basement waterproofing. Additionally, since natural light can be hard to come by in basements, you’ll want to install lighting that brightens up the space and creates a pleasant atmosphere.

Removing Clutter

It’s unlikely that your basement was just sitting empty before you decide to convert it. It probably had a lot of old items and other things stored there. If you’re going to make your basement a comfortable living space, then this clutter will need to be removed. A lot of it, you’ll find, can be thrown away or sold. For the stuff you need to keep, look at keeping it in another part of the home, or you can store in a purpose built shed. 

Professional Work

A converted basement can add a lot of value to your home, but only if you do it correctly. For this reason, you’ll want to make sure that you’re working with experienced professionals. The costs might seem a little prohibitive at first, but think of it as an investment — this is something that you’ll get to enjoy for many years to come, and the money will come back to you and more in home value, anyway.

There really is a lot of value in converting your basement. Start your journey today, and look forward to a more spacious and well put together home.