Let’s Talk Basements: How to Finish Your Basement so It Adds Value to Your Home

Are you on the hunt for home renovations that will boost usability and value? Look no further than that unfinished basement. In this article, we’ll show you how to turn that dusty cave into an amazing new living space.

Note: finishing a basement isn’t the easiest job. For most basements, it’s a lot more than a weekend do-it-yourself project. If you’re not comfortable with construction be sure to enlist the help of a professional.

Step 1: Plan Everything Out

The first step is to plan out how you’re going to use the space. Are you going to make an office? A full suite? Is there any plumbing or wiring involved? Will you need to create full walls? Map out how you plan to use the available space so you have an idea of what you’ll need.

Step 2: Measure And Deal With The Floor

Once you figure out how you’ll use the space, you’ll need to measure everything out. Height can be an issue — especially in basements not designed as a living space. You can solve height problems by digging out the concrete slab. Once you get down deep enough, you pour a new slab.

Step 3: Frame Everything In

Is the basement at a good height? Next you’ll need to start framing everything in. Depending on how you have your walls mapped out, this might take a while. You may also need permits or to enlist licensed tradespeople, such as an electrician. If you’re just framing in a single room to add walls, it will be easier.

Step 4: Insulate And Install The Walls

After the framing process, you’ll insulate everything before installing the walls. Adding insulation can drive energy and heating costs down by a lot. So much so that in colder areas of the country, new homes must have insulated basements. After the insulation is in place, you’ll install the drywall and ready the walls for painting.

Step 5: Paint, Carpet And Finish Up

The final step is to get everything painted and finished. If you chose to go with a carpeted floor, you’ll want to save this for last. Once the painting is complete, install the carpets, baseboard and trim. Touch up any final areas and you’re all set.

Finishing your basement into a usable space is an excellent way to add value to your home. To learn more about building your home’s equity, give me a call – J.P. Cook – 602-320-4253.

Click Here to See What Your Home is Worth

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26562 W Vista North Drive Buckeye, AZ 85396

$640,000

3 Beds

2.5 Baths

2,519 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6755733

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Enjoy all the amazing features this popular Journey model has to offer AND all the wonderful amenities of the 55+ Sun City Festival community. This home features a heated, lap-style pool, owned solar, 3 bedrooms, 2.5 baths and a private den with a safe, built-in cabinets and shelving. The backyard pool area is very private with no neighbors behind the home. The kitchen area includes bow windows, SS appliances, gas cooktop, refrigerator, upgraded cabinets with roll-out trays, granite counter tops, a butler pantry and separate workspace. The owner's suite features a shower and jetted tub with split vanities and a custom walk-in closet. Bedrooms include plantation shutters. The laundry includes the washer & dryer and sink with built-in cabinets. The garage also includes built-in cabinets.

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1640 W Clarendon Avenue Phoenix, AZ 85015

$640,000

3 Beds

2.5 Baths

1,897 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6782539

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome to your dream home in a quiet, central Phoenix neighborhood! This remodeled, 3-bedroom, 2.5-bath home offers an inviting open-concept, split-floorplan design with contemporary finishes. The huge kitchen, complete with stainless appliances including a wine fridge, gas cooktop, wall oven, and large island with breakfast bar, flows seamlessly into the dining and family room, perfect for gatherings. A double-sided gas fireplace opens to both the dining area as well as separate den or office The primary bedroom opens boasts a walk-in closet, ensuite bath with custom tile, and a separate Japanese soaking tub and opens to the pool area. The large backyard features a sparking pool and covered patio. Walking distance to Phoenix Christian, Clarendon Elementary, & St. Gregory's Elementary.

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2276 W Periwinkle Way Chandler, AZ 85248

$640,000

4 Beds

2 Baths

1,961 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6777924

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Single level home in Ocotillo near the Ocotillo golf course. Home was remodeled in 2020 with beautiful flooring, light fixtures, & baths. Corner lot with 3 car garage which includes wiring for EV charging. Inside you'll find beautiful wood like floowing throughout the home, bright and open formal dining & living space that continues into the family room / kitchen area. Beautiul granite counters, white cabinetry, stainless steel appliances, pendant lights, and an island. The family room has a fireplace. Large sliding glass door opens to a covered patio, pool and backyard space. Primary bedroom faces the backyard and the primary bath, has a separate tub, beautilful shower with separate toilet area. One of the secondary bedrooms could double as an office w/french doors, Solar panels

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3455 Turkey Track Road Pinetop, AZ 85935

New

$640,000

3 Beds

2.5 Baths

1,924 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6777423

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

This sharp looking cabin in the woods is fully furnished with everything you need down to the coffee maker. If you are looking for an investment property, full time or part time living, this cabin is perfect for you! It's an open concept living area, so you won't miss out on anything while entertaining and vaulted ceiling. A nice size loft that is large enough for a game room, extra living room, workout area, or an extra sleeping area. The master bedroom is downstairs, perfect for comfort at the end of a long day. Both the front and back decks are covered and perfect for sipping on your morning coffee or a glass of wine in the evening. With the amenities of the clubhouse, pool, workout facility, tennis, hiking and more are here for you in the Pinetop Lakes Country Club.

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9820 E Satellite Drive Mesa, AZ 85212

$640,000

4 Beds

3 Baths

2,145 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6781511

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Fall in love with this beautiful 4 Bedroom 3 Bath single-level residence in EASTMARK! Impressive interior boasts a great open floor plan with wood-look tile flooring, a wall-mounted fireplace, and wide sliding glass doors that merge the indoor-outdoor living. Immaculate kitchen comes complete with recessed & pendant lighting, a pantry, ample white cabinetry with decorative molding, a prep island with a breakfast bar, sleek quartz counters, and glossy SS appliances. Romantic primary retreat offers a plush carpet, an ensuite with dual sinks, and a walk-in closet. Additional highlights include an open den that can double as a game room. Check out the large backyard with artificial turf, covered patio, and pavers - an ideal spot for relaxing. All this and lots of room for storage - 3CG!!

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50910 W Long Rifle Road Aguila, AZ 85320

$640,000

2 Beds

2 Baths

1,386 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6780527

Property Type Manufactured Home

Price Type --

This meticulously maintained, fully furnished 2-bedroom, 2-bathroom home offers both comfort and versatility, complete with an office space for all your work-from-home needs. Outdoors, enjoy the convenience of a full RV hookup, while the expansive 7.5-acre lot provides the perfect canvas for your dream horse pens and arena, designed exactly how you envision it. A container is included, ready to be transformed into a practical tack room or additional storage space. The property is securely enclosed with an 6-foot tall chain-link fence and features easily operable gates for seamless access. Surrounding the home, you'll find a variety of mature trees, including California-imported palms and a unique Australian Willow that maintains its lush foliage year-round, offering plenty of shade for the grand Arizona room. The room itself boasts vaulted beam ceilings and a ceiling fan, creating a relaxed, breezy atmosphere. An automatic drip irrigation system ensures easy maintenance, keeping the landscape beautiful with minimal effort. Additionally, the spacious two-car garage features a concrete floor and automatic doors, providing ample storage. Attached to the garage is a game/party room with a beautiful pool tableideal for entertaining, or easily converted into a guest casita. Don't miss the chance to unwind and take in breathtaking sunsets over the mountains from your new home!

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16600 N Thompson Peak Parkway Unit 1057 Scottsdale, AZ 85260

$640,000

2 Beds

2.5 Baths

1,890 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6784770

Property Type Townhouse

Price Type --

Contemporary & gated; RARE end unit in the highly desirable GATED community of McDowell Mountain Ranch. Near proximity to ''The Vig'', boutique restaurants and grocery store. City lights and views of Camelback from primary bedroom balcony. This is largest unit available having an open floor plan with vaulted ceilings, updated windows, plantation shutters, updated polished travertine (2018), updated LVP in the 2 primary suites upstairs. Additional den & 1/2 bath on main floor. Kitchen with gas range, designer lighting and breakfast bar. Dining area has built in buffet and fireplace in great room. Lots of counter space & additional storage under staircase. 2-car epoxy floor garage. Sparkling community pool & fountain, spa, tennis courts & numerous amenities of McDowell Mountain Ranch just across the street. The Community boasts of biking trails, golf, all the dining and shopping in and around DC Ranch Beautifully maintained hard to find end unit. Smoke-free home.

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7163 E Grass Land Drive Prescott Valley, AZ 86314

$640,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

1,811 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6782324

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Experience luxury at StoneRidge w/ This Beautiful 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom Open Floor plan home, Features elegant pecan color wood flooring thru-out, making this home a cozy setting for Entertaining . The Modern kitchen boasts convenience w/ like New KitchenAid appliances, ideal for gourmet cooking. Recent upgrades include a Brand New HVAC system and 40g Water Heater, ensuring comfort and efficiency. The backyard is fully paved for a low-maintenance outdoor living, The 3-car garage offers ample space for all Kinds of Storage and Vehicles . This is the ultimate blend of style and functionality with only a few blocks from the prestigious StoneRidge Golf Course Clubhouse. A MUST SEE!

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17320 E Pinnacle Vista Drive Rio Verde, AZ 85263

$640,000

4 Beds

2.5 Baths

2,126 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6731827

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Charming Single-Story Home on Over an Acre in Beautiful Rio Verde Welcome to this delightful single-story residence, nestled on just over an acre of pristine land in Rio Verde. This property has participated in the EPCOR water solution and has been thoughtfully updated to offer both modern conveniences and timeless appeal. Recent updates enhance the home's charm and functionality, including fresh interior and exterior paint, an expanded back paver patio, new artificial turf, and a fenced-in backyard. The front and rear landscaping has been designed to enhance the home's curb appeal, creating a welcoming environment for you and your guests. The gourmet kitchen is a highlight of the home, featuring top-of-the-line GE stainless steel appliances. A brand-new GE washer and dryer have also been installed, making laundry chores a breeze. The home's 2x6 construction ensures superior energy efficiency, contributing to lower utility costs and a comfortable living environment. Through participation in EPCOR's long-term water solution the property will enjoy reliable and sustainable water service. The property is also located within the SRP service area, ensuring dependable electricity. Experience the serene lifestyle of Rio Verde with this exceptional home that seamlessly blends modern updates with sustainable living. Don't miss this opportunity to own a piece of Rio Verde's charm!

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3305 S Stanley Place Tempe, AZ 85282

$640,000

5 Beds

2 Baths

1,907 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6786544

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

**TURNKEY INVESTMENT PROPERTY**Discover this beautifully remodeled 5-bedroom, 2-bath property, ideal for homeowners or investors looking to capitalize on its prime location. Situated just minutes from ASU, this home features brand-new flooring and fresh, modern paint throughout, creating a bright and inviting atmosphere. With its generous layout, this property offers ample space for families or students. Currently utilized as a successful airbnb, it boasts strong rental potential thanks to its proximity to ASU, local dining, shopping and entertainment options. Whether you are seeking a turnkey investment or a comfortable residence near the heart of Tempe, this property checks all the boxes.

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1023 W Ingram Street Mesa, AZ 85201

New

$640,000

5 Beds

3 Baths

2,816 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6788487

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Beautiful single family home featured in the private community of Riverview Village located in Mesa, AZ. This home incorporates a subtle balance of contemporary finishes with a modern design while featuring 5 bedrooms and 3 full bath(s) in a 2,816 sq ft open concept floor plan. The upgraded kitchen offers granite countertops, large [eat-in] island, raised panel cabinetry, ss appliances, and pantry. Additional home features include 10ft+ ceilings, downstairs living areas, upstairs living space, wood plank tile flooring, modern plumbing/lighting fixtures [fans], dual pane [low-e] windows, 2'' blinds, designated dining space, and a dedicated master retreat featuring a spacious sleeping quarters, large shower, dual sinks, and walk-in closet. Lastly, the home features a 2-car garage, an..

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24118 S Stoney Lake Drive Sun Lakes, AZ 85248

$640,000

2 Beds

2 Baths

1,997 SqFt

Status Active Under Contract

MLS # 6766696

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Arizona living at its best, in the gated adult community of Oakwood! Charming Milano model featuring a 2 bedroom, 2 bath split floor plan, den, great room w/ vaulted ceilings & gas fireplace, wooden shutters, wooden blinds, tile floors and ceiling fans throughout. Interior freshly painted. Beautiful pebble finished pool w/ water feature, huge covered back patio, private courtyard entry, mature landscaping, perfect for entertaining. 2 car extended garage & separate golf cart garage located on a premium nearly 10,000 sq. ft. corner cut de sac lot. Community amenities include golf, tennis, pickleball, pools/spas, fitness center, billiards, clubs, social activities & restaurants.

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