How Much Does it Cost to Remodel a Basement?

Your Atlanta basement is pure potential. It could be many things: an additional entertaining space, a home gym, a playroom for the kids, or even a full-on apartment equipped with its own kitchen, bathroom, living area, and bedroom. 

The list of possibilities can be overwhelming; that’s why it is a good idea to ground yourself by looking at the financials early in the process. That’ll help you determine what changes and features you want to prioritize, enabling you to optimize your basement remodel design for your lifestyle.

To figure out how much your basement remodel is going to cost, you need to start with the big picture and work your way down to looking at individual expenses. Not sure exactly how to do that? Keep reading for our tips.

Start With Scope 

The scope of your basement remodeling project massively impacts price. So, to determine how much your remodel costs, you need to figure out the scope. Are you planning to make big changes, such as adding plumbing for a kitchenette and bathroom, or do you simply want to make a few cosmetic changes? 

Once you know how big you want to go, identify whether you are remodeling, renovating, or finishing your basement — this will help you get a more accurate cost estimate. Though these terms are sometimes used interchangeably, they each stand for a separate and distinct type of basement home improvement.

Remodeling

Our award-winning basement remodeling services in Atlanta encompass a wide range of possibilities, including adding walls, creating extra rooms, or incorporating functional elements like wet bars.

By choosing Copper Sky for your basement remodel in Atlanta, you're investing in excellence and innovation. Our skilled team of professionals ensures that your project is executed with precision. We understand that each homeowner has unique requirements, and we tailor our approach to meet your specific needs and offer you opportunities to achieve the comfort and convenience you never knew you needed.

Renovating

In some cases, homeowners may not require a complete overhaul but rather a fresh start for their basement. This is where basement renovation comes into play. If you have an older basement or one that has suffered from flooding or other damage, our renovation services can restore it to a like-new condition.

Renovation projects typically involve addressing structural issues, flood clean-up, stripping walls, removing mold, and redoing the floors. While minor repairs such as paint and carpet replacement may only cost a few thousand dollars, tackling more extensive damage can be a more substantial investment. However, Copper Sky's expertise in basement renovation in Atlanta ensures that your space is revitalized efficiently and to the highest quality standards.

Finishing

For those whose basements resemble concrete cell blocks, finishing is the ultimate solution. When you choose to finish your basement, you're essentially giving it a complete makeover. This involves adding floors, ceilings, walls, paint, mechanicals, and furnishings to create a comfortable and functional living space.

Copper Sky's commitment to excellence extends to our basement finishing services in Atlanta. Our team pays meticulous attention to detail, ensuring that every aspect of your basement is expertly designed and crafted. Whether you envision a cozy family room, a home office, or a stylish entertainment area, our award-winning expertise guarantees a finished basement that exceeds your expectations.

Excavating

No usable basement? You may still have options. For homeowners in Atlanta dreaming of more space, converting a crawl space or an unfinished area into a functional basement is an exciting possibility. This approach preserves your existing yard space and can significantly enhance the value and versatility of your home. The process of excavating (digging out) and underpinning (strengthening your home's foundation so that it can accommodate the new structure) can add significantly to your budget, (upwards of $100,000, depending on the size, scope, and your lot's conditions) but unlocks new space and unlimited possibilities.

Break it Down by Expense

Understanding the costs involved in a basement remodel in Atlanta is crucial for planning your project. The average cost to finish a basement can vary, but with Copper Sky Design + Remodel, you can expect transparency and detailed breakdowns. Let’s dive into the specifics:

• Size and Shape of the Basement

  • Larger basements require more materials and labor, increasing costs.

  • Basements with unusual shapes or irregular angles or features will cost more to finish.

• Scope of the Project

  • Structural changes like adding or removing walls.

  • Adding special features like a home theater or gym.

  • Converting the basement into a living space with bedrooms and bathrooms.

• Quality of Materials

  • High-end finishes (e.g., granite countertops, hardwood floors) are more expensive.

  • Standard materials (e.g., laminate counters, vinyl flooring) are more cost-effective.

• Labor Costs

  • Professional fees for contractors, electricians, plumbers, etc.

  • Costs vary depending on the region and your contractor's specialized skills and experience.

• Demolition and Cleanup

  • Costs for removing existing structures or materials.

  • Disposal fees for construction debris.

• Accessibility Features

  • Installing ramps, wider doorways, or special bathroom fixtures for accessibility.

• Soundproofing

  • Additional costs for soundproofing materials and installation.

• Technology Integration

  • Home automation systems.

  • Home theater audio-visual equipment and wiring.

• Environmental and Safety Considerations

  • Radon mitigation systems if necessary.

  • Fire-resistant materials and smoke detectors.

• Exterior Access

  • Adding or modifying external entrances.

  • Costs for steps, doors, and security features.

• Project Timeline

  • Longer projects may incur higher labor costs.

  • Expedited projects might require premium charges.

• Landscaping and Exterior Work

  • Modifications to the yard or exterior to accommodate basement changes.

Factor in Return on Investment

Although you may be more concerned about the upfront investment, it’s also important to factor in how these home improvements will impact your home’s value. That’s where Return on Investment comes in. ROI is a percentage that tells you how much of your original investment you’ll get back in the form of increased home value. 

Basement improvements tend to have a fairly high ROI. But ROI can vary depending on your specific home, remodel, and location, so it can be a good idea to ask a local real estate agent for an estimate. 

Want to maximize your basement ROI? Here are a few ways you can make your basement more attractive to homebuyers.

• Increase natural light by adding windows or a walkout sliding door that leads to an outdoor patio. 

• Give your basement a specific function, such as a home office, playroom, or guest suite. 

• Make your remodel match the rest of your home by using similar materials or, at the very least, the same quality of materials. The materials you choose should also be able to withstand the moisture of your basement. 

• Keep in mind that homebuyers generally prefer open floor plans.

Ready to get your Atlanta, GA basement remodel underway? Copper Sky Design + Remodel works with you to create the basement of your dreams while prioritizing your needs, budget, and ROI! Get started today.