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

Listing types.

For Sale

For Rent

Land

Multifamily

Commercial

Location Search Nearby

BedsAny1+2+3+4+5+6+

BathsAny1+2+3+4+5+6+

Price MinAny$50,000$100,000$150,000$200,000$250,000$300,000$350,000$400,000$450,000$500,000$600,000$700,000$800,000$900,000$1,000,000$1,100,000$1,200,000$1,300,000$1,400,000$1,500,000$1,600,000$1,800,000$1,900,000$2,000,000$2,250,000$2,500,000$2,750,000$3,000,000$3,250,000$3,500,000$3,750,000$4,000,000$4,500,000$5,000,000$6,000,000$8,000,000$10,000,000$15,000,000

Price MaxAny$50,000$100,000$150,000$200,000$250,000$300,000$350,000$400,000$450,000$500,000$600,000$700,000$800,000$900,000$1,000,000$1,100,000$1,200,000$1,300,000$1,400,000$1,500,000$1,600,000$1,800,000$1,900,000$2,000,000$2,250,000$2,500,000$2,750,000$3,000,000$3,250,000$3,500,000$3,750,000$4,000,000$4,500,000$5,000,000$6,000,000$8,000,000$10,000,000$15,000,000

Advanced Options

Property TypeAnyApartmentManufactured HomeSingle Family ResidenceTownhouseTwin Home

School District

Address, MLS# or Keyword

Home SizeAny600 ft2800 ft21,000 ft21,200 ft21,400 ft21,600 ft21,800 ft22,000 ft22,200 ft22,400 ft22,600 ft22,800 ft23,000 ft23,500 ft24,000 ft24,500 ft25,000 ft25,500 ft26,000 ft2

YearAny2024+2023+2022+2021+2020+2019+2018+2017+2016+2015+2014+2013+2012+2011+2010+2009+2008+2007+2006+2005+2004+2003+2002+2001+2000+1999+1998+1997+1996+1995+1994+1993+1992+1991+1990+1980+1970+1960+1950+1940+1930+

Distressed

Open House

Location Search Nearby

BedsAny1+2+3+4+5+6+

BathsAny1+2+3+4+5+6+

Price MinAny$500$600$700$800$900$1,000$1,100$1,200$1,300$1,500$1,600$1,700$1,800$1,900$2,000$2,250$2,500$2,750$3,000$3,250$3,500$3,750$4,000$4,500$5,000$5,500$6,000$6,500$7,000$7,500$8,000$8,500$9,000$9,500$10,000

Price MaxAny$500$600$700$800$900$1,000$1,100$1,200$1,300$1,500$1,600$1,700$1,800$1,900$2,000$2,250$2,500$2,750$3,000$3,250$3,500$3,750$4,000$4,500$5,000$5,500$6,000$6,500$7,000$7,500$8,000$8,500$9,000$9,500$10,000

Advanced Options

Property TypeAnyApartmentManufactured HomeSingle Family ResidenceTownhouseTwin Home

School District

Address, MLS# or Keyword

Home SizeAny600 ft2800 ft21,000 ft21,200 ft21,400 ft21,600 ft21,800 ft22,000 ft22,200 ft22,400 ft22,600 ft22,800 ft23,000 ft23,500 ft24,000 ft24,500 ft25,000 ft25,500 ft26,000 ft2

YearAny2024+2023+2022+2021+2020+2019+2018+2017+2016+2015+2014+2013+2012+2011+2010+2009+2008+2007+2006+2005+2004+2003+2002+2001+2000+1999+1998+1997+1996+1995+1994+1993+1992+1991+1990+1980+1970+1960+1950+1940+1930+

Location Search Nearby

Lot SizeAny1+ Acres2+ Acres3+ Acres4+ Acres5+ Acres6+ Acres7+ Acres8+ Acres9+ Acres10+ Acres20+ Acres30+ Acres40+ Acres50+ Acres

Price MinAny$50,000$100,000$150,000$200,000$250,000$300,000$350,000$400,000$450,000$500,000$600,000$700,000$800,000$900,000$1,000,000$1,100,000$1,200,000$1,300,000$1,400,000$1,500,000$1,600,000$1,800,000$1,900,000$2,000,000$2,250,000$2,500,000$2,750,000$3,000,000$3,250,000$3,500,000$3,750,000$4,000,000$4,500,000$5,000,000$6,000,000$8,000,000$10,000,000$15,000,000

Price MaxAny$50,000$100,000$150,000$200,000$250,000$300,000$350,000$400,000$450,000$500,000$600,000$700,000$800,000$900,000$1,000,000$1,100,000$1,200,000$1,300,000$1,400,000$1,500,000$1,600,000$1,800,000$1,900,000$2,000,000$2,250,000$2,500,000$2,750,000$3,000,000$3,250,000$3,500,000$3,750,000$4,000,000$4,500,000$5,000,000$6,000,000$8,000,000$10,000,000$15,000,000

Advanced Options

Neighborhood

Address, MLS# or Keyword

Location Search Nearby

Price MinAny$50,000$100,000$150,000$200,000$250,000$300,000$350,000$400,000$450,000$500,000$600,000$700,000$800,000$900,000$1,000,000$1,100,000$1,200,000$1,300,000$1,400,000$1,500,000$1,600,000$1,800,000$1,900,000$2,000,000$2,250,000$2,500,000$2,750,000$3,000,000$3,250,000$3,500,000$3,750,000$4,000,000$4,500,000$5,000,000$6,000,000$8,000,000$10,000,000$15,000,000

Price MaxAny$50,000$100,000$150,000$200,000$250,000$300,000$350,000$400,000$450,000$500,000$600,000$700,000$800,000$900,000$1,000,000$1,100,000$1,200,000$1,300,000$1,400,000$1,500,000$1,600,000$1,800,000$1,900,000$2,000,000$2,250,000$2,500,000$2,750,000$3,000,000$3,250,000$3,500,000$3,750,000$4,000,000$4,500,000$5,000,000$6,000,000$8,000,000$10,000,000$15,000,000

Advanced Options

School District

Address, MLS# or Keyword

YearAny2024+2023+2022+2021+2020+2019+2018+2017+2016+2015+2014+2013+2012+2011+2010+2009+2008+2007+2006+2005+2004+2003+2002+2001+2000+1999+1998+1997+1996+1995+1994+1993+1992+1991+1990+1980+1970+1960+1950+1940+1930+

Location Search Nearby

Lot SizeAny1+ Acres2+ Acres3+ Acres4+ Acres5+ Acres6+ Acres7+ Acres8+ Acres9+ Acres10+ Acres20+ Acres30+ Acres40+ Acres50+ Acres

Price MinAny$50,000$100,000$150,000$200,000$250,000$300,000$350,000$400,000$450,000$500,000$600,000$700,000$800,000$900,000$1,000,000$1,100,000$1,200,000$1,300,000$1,400,000$1,500,000$1,600,000$1,800,000$1,900,000$2,000,000$2,250,000$2,500,000$2,750,000$3,000,000$3,250,000$3,500,000$3,750,000$4,000,000$4,500,000$5,000,000$6,000,000$8,000,000$10,000,000$15,000,000

Price MaxAny$50,000$100,000$150,000$200,000$250,000$300,000$350,000$400,000$450,000$500,000$600,000$700,000$800,000$900,000$1,000,000$1,100,000$1,200,000$1,300,000$1,400,000$1,500,000$1,600,000$1,800,000$1,900,000$2,000,000$2,250,000$2,500,000$2,750,000$3,000,000$3,250,000$3,500,000$3,750,000$4,000,000$4,500,000$5,000,000$6,000,000$8,000,000$10,000,000$15,000,000

Advanced Options

Address, MLS# or Keyword

YearAny2024+2023+2022+2021+2020+2019+2018+2017+2016+2015+2014+2013+2012+2011+2010+2009+2008+2007+2006+2005+2004+2003+2002+2001+2000+1999+1998+1997+1996+1995+1994+1993+1992+1991+1990+1980+1970+1960+1950+1940+1930+

View As: Thumbnails List

Sort by: Select Price, Low to High Price, High to Low Newer Listings First Older Listings First Open House Date

2351 N Tierra Alta Circle Mesa, AZ 85207

$574,000

4 Beds

2 Baths

1,811 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6775532

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Incredible Opportunity in East Mesa! Discover the only single-level, 4-bedroom home under $600,000 east of the 202 Loop with a private pool in a gated community. This rare find is nestled on a premium corner lot in the secure Boulder Mountain Community, offering a perfect blend of comfort and style. The home showcases a beautifully updated chef's kitchen with a gas range, Taj Mahal quartzite countertops, a custom backsplash, and many thoughtful upgrades. The functional split floor plan ensures privacy, with one secondary bedroom featuring a walk-in closet.The stunning primary bathroom boasts a large shower with a glass wall and a separate soaking tub, perfect for unwinding. Elegant diagonally laid tile throughout the main living areas adds sophistication, while the oversized 2.5-car garage provides ample storage space and includes an 18,000 BTU HVAC mini split for heating and cooling. The expansive corner lot is ideal for entertaining, with a gorgeous pool as the centerpiece. Lots of entertainment areas, and lovely garden beds. Plus, enjoy peace of mind with a new AC unit that keeps the home comfortable year-round. Boulder Mountain's prime location near Loop 202 and its proximity to Usery Mountain Regional Park offers endless opportunities for hiking, biking, and outdoor recreation. Also, walking distance to A+ rated schools! Don't miss out on this exceptional find!

View Property

9413 E Osage Avenue Mesa, AZ 85212

Open House

$574,000

4 Beds

2 Baths

2,308 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6764630

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Back on market after getting a super cute remodel! Fantastic single story home located in highly desirable Mesquite Canyon featuring 4 bedrooms, 2 baths, 2 car garage, Through the front door you are welcomed by BRAND NEW vinyl plank flooring throughout, FRESHLY painted white interior which is a blank canvas to decorate to your hearts content, NEW baseboards, additional puck lighting added to give the home that light, bright and airy feeling, living room/dining room combo, kitchen boasts granite countertops and backsplash, stainless steel appliances, white cabs, dining area, kitchen island, flat top electric stove with above b-i microwave, huge walk-in pantry, family room with shiplap accent wall, large primary bedroom with double door entry, walk-in closet and exterior access to backyard , ensuite with dual sinks, separate shower & tub, chevron accent wall with updated mirrors and light fixtures, enjoy outdoor entertaining with sparking play pool, covered patio and canopy with pavered sitting area, vaulted ceilings, faux wood blinds, security screen door, near highly rated Gilbert schools, neighborhood parks, restaurants and shopping. An Absolute Must See!

View Property

25817 N Bolero Bend Rio Verde, AZ 85263

Open House

$574,000

2 Beds

2 Baths

2,205 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6762128

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Calling all investors and buyers looking for a bargain in the vibrant adult community of Rio Verde! Priced to sell and below market so you can reap the benefits of this fabulous property with tons of potential and equity! Spacious corner lot, this property offers a spacious backyard complete with a wonderful patio area & your own pool. Both bedrooms offer their own baths, while an additional flex space is perfect for an office, roomy sitting area, or home gym. The formal living and dining areas seamlessly flow into the generous kitchen, which boasts ample cabinet space and an inviting eat-in area. With a 2.5-car garage, there's plenty of room for your golf cart and extra storage. As a social member of the Rio Verde Country Club, you'll enjoy a wealth of activities; tennis, pickleball, bocce ball, and a community gym and pool. This is an excellent opportunity to create your own unique sanctuary while living the Rio Verde lifestyle!

View Property

3812 W Antelope Way San Tan Valley, AZ 85144

$573,995

3 Beds

2.5 Baths

2,129 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6784584

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

This beautiful home was crafted for the way you live. The gourmet kitchen makes a statement with its premium finishes, upgraded cabinets, and stainless steel appliances. The open-concept great room is the perfect atmosphere for entertaining, with connectivity to the dining area and expansive views of the outdoor living space. The expansive flex room is conveniently placed off the foyer, providing plenty of space for entertaining. The resort-style amenities in this community will make your family feel they're on vacation year-round. Experience the luxury you've always wanted today.

View Property

1380 W Golden Ore Pass Apache Junction, AZ 85120

$573,990

4 Beds

3 Baths

2,524 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6781906

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome to Blossom Rock! The east valley's newest master planned community. With views of the Superstition Mountains and a wealth of amenities currently in the making including three community parks, dozens of neighborhood parks, a community school, miles of trails, beautiful lakes, and indoor and outdoor gathering spaces all meant to serve as the backdrop of the calendar of signature events and annual celebrations currently being created. A public report is available on the Arizona Department of Real Estate website.

View Property

8300 E Vía De Ventura Boulevard Unit 1015 Scottsdale, AZ 85258

$573,900

2 Beds

2 Baths

1,442 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6750386

Property Type Townhouse

Price Type --

Come see this move in ready condo in gated Lakeside Villas at McCormick Ranch! This home wood plank tile flooring plantation shutters and upgraded lighting fixtures and fans throughout. The living room has a reclaimed wood detail fireplace and high ceilings with lots of natural light. The kitchen features soft close cabinets and drawers, Quartz countertops and new stainless steel appliances. New Quartz countertops in the bathrooms as well. The primary bedroom has an ensuite bathroom and spacious walk in closet. Inside laundry and a singel car detached garage. Community amenities include pool/spa, walking/biking path and lake views. Close to lots of shopping, fine dining, golf and easy freeway access. Must see

View Property

2529 W Florentine Road Phoenix, AZ 85086

$573,900

4 Beds

3.5 Baths

2,483 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6764475

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

PRICED TO SELL! Fantastic opportunity to own this beautiful Tramonto home in sought after Desert Hills! This open concept home features a kitchen with custom cabinets, granite counters, breakfast bar, SS appliances that overlooks the great room and dining area. Two spacious master bedrooms. One with large jacuzzi tub and separate shower and the other boasts a private master retreat that's sure to please guests and family. 20x20 diagonally laid tile and newer carpet. Spacious den/office, 1/2 bath and laundry room downstairs. Tramonto community amenities include basketball courts, 2 community pools, jacuzzi, walking/bike trails and is close to excellent schools, restaurants, shopping, TSMC campus and the I-17.

View Property

1502 Oregon Avenue Prescott, AZ 86305

$573,818

2 Beds

3 Baths

2,125 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6731974

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Nestled in the serene Oregon neighborhood on the coveted West side of Prescott, Arizona, this 2125 sqft two-story home epitomizes eco-friendly living. Situated gracefully alongside a tranquil creek, protected by towering granite boulders, this residence is a sanctuary for those who cherish comfort and sustainability. Step inside to discover an incredible conservatory, complete with heating and cooling, offering a year-round connection to nature's beauty. Imagine soaking in a jetted tub or simply relaxing in this serene space, which includes a connected half bathroom. During winter, imagine placing your bed here and gazing up through the glass ceiling as snow gently falls around you—an experience reminiscent of sleeping in an igloo under the stars. The home boasts a Trombe Wall, ... ... ... harnessing passive solar energy for efficient heating and cooling. Supplementing this green ethos are solar hot water panels with electric backup, an old unregistered well, and multiple large water storage tanks, ensuring self-sufficiency even in the driest months. Warmth and ambiance abound with furnace-rated fireplaces complementing a cozy wood-burning hearth, perfect for chilly Prescott evenings. Outside, the property is ensconced in natural beauty, seamlessly blending into majestic Granite Boulders topped by a durable metal roof and freshly painted exterior. Additional features include a detached two-car carport, multiple sheds for storage, and an attached carport. For the discerning buyer seeking a harmonious blend of luxury and environmental stewardship, this Green Home in Prescott's Oregon neighborhood is a rare gem waiting to be discovered.

View Property

5053 S Laguna Avenue Sierra Vista, AZ 85650

$573,500

5 Beds

2.5 Baths

3,673 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6763911

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Solar was added to eliminate high electric bills- solar loan to be assumed by new owner. Escape to your private oasis and grand estate. This property boosts more than you can even imagine. Entry is enclosed with bright light inviting windows then you enter your home through brand new custom doors to an abundance of space starting with a formal dining room and living room with a 2-sided fireplace - you will notice new wood laminate floors. Kitchen fit for a chef - Kitchen Aid appliances, wall oven, huge island with cook top, granite counter tops and newly refinished cabinets. Just off the kitchen is eat in dining area, guest bathroom and bedroom AND your private sauna room. Heading to the upper level is 2 additional guest bedrooms and your primary suite. Heading to the upper level is 2 additional guest bedrooms and your primary suite. Outside - welcome to your resort enjoy a private pool and hot tub within the primary yard but wait there is more with over 1 acre of land bring your toys, horses or pets with ample space and additional storage building that could be used for whatever you need. You don't want to miss the opportunity to own this 1 of a kind home. You will also find a very large bonus space, with wall-to-wall windows to take in all the beautiful views of the area. Use for your games, living, hobby etc. room the possibilities are endless.

View Property

17279 W Dartmouth Street Surprise, AZ 85388

$573,500

2 Beds

2 Baths

1,530 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6763149

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

COME SEE THIS SMITHFIELD SPANISH HOME NESTLED ON A CORNER LOT WITH AMAZING MOUNTAIN VIEWS AT STERLING GROVE GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB IN SURPRISE, ARIZONA! IMMACULATE HOME WITH GREAT ROOM OPEN FLOOR PLAN, 10' FOOT CEILINGS, TILE FLOORING THROUGHOUT, GORGEOUS CHEF'S KITCHEN WITH GAS COOKTOP, BUILT IN WALL OVEN AND MICROWAVE, KITCHEN ISLAND WITH QUARTZ COUNTERTOPS, BEAUTIFUL KITCHEN CABINETS, BACKSPLASH AND MORE! MASTER BATHROOM WITH HIS & HER SINKS, WALK-IN SHOWER, AND WALK-IN CLOSET. SPACIOUS BACK PATIO AND YARD TO ENTERTAIN FAMILY & FRIENDS! Sterling Grove Golf & Country Club is a Gated Community w/24 Hour Guard Post. Great Opportunity to Enjoy on a daily basis so many Wonderful Amenities and Beautiful Views of the White Tank Mountains, Lakes, Ponds and Gorgeous Greens on your Walks, Jogs, Bike Rides! Amenities: TROON Managed Jack Nicklaus Design 18 Hole Golf Course, Tennis Courts, Pickleball Courts, Country Club, Resort Style Pools, Fitness Center, Spa, Restaurants, and Much More!

View Property

7950 E Queensborough Avenue Mesa, AZ 85212

$573,315

4 Beds

2 Baths

1,832 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6676004

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

MLS6676004. Ready Now! PRICE REDUCTION! The Edmonton at Hawes Crossing Discovery presents a charming single-story residence boasting 4 bedrooms, 2 baths, a 2-car garage, and two dining areas. As you step inside, the foyer effortlessly guides you towards the dining and kitchen space, providing abundant room for culinary endeavors. Revel in the spacious and welcoming ambiance of the casual dining and great room area, seamlessly connected to the outdoor living space and backyard, perfect for hosting gatherings. The generously proportioned primary suite offers a serene retreat with its private bathroom featuring double sinks and a walk-in closet. Structural options include: paver front porch, garage service door, and extended owner's suite.

View Property

374 E Citrus Hollow Way Queen Creek, AZ 85140

$573,088

2 Beds

2.5 Baths

1,678 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6605086

Property Type Townhouse

Price Type --

Welcome to a brand new Valletta model. It has an expansive layout and this home is illuminated by an abundance of natural light. The kitchen stands fully equipped with modern stainless steel appliances and elegant granite countertops. With a culinary connoisseur's dream at its heart, including a gas cooktop, it's an ideal setting for hosting and delighting your guests. Both bathrooms have undergone exquisite upgrades, featuring tile surrounds and elevated fixtures. A few upgrades include quartz countertops at kitchen and bathrooms, huge sliding door at patio, gourmet kitchen appliances and a large smart space. Start living the good life at Encanterra today!

View Property