Converting garage to living space

Anyone do this? We have someone to do the work but just concerned about the permit procedure. What is entailed with obtaining permits? How much did it cost you?

Re: Converting garage to living space

We just bought a house with a converted garage and the prior owners had to get the permits before we could close. I believe all of the permits were a few hundred dollars. They had hired an expeditor, and the process went very smoothly but expect at least a few months. The sellers were able to get a fast track to finalize it because selling a house is considered a reason to have it fast-tracked. Just be aware that when the inspectors come, they may scrutinize everything on your property. It happened to this house,as well as my parents', that they found themselves also having to get permits for other things they had had done years and years ago (ie tall fence, central a/c fan unit, shed, deck, etc.)

Though we love having a play room and extra space, we do really miss not having a garage. The squirrels get Into every garbage can we've tried, we have no room for dd's outdoor toys, a snowblower, etc. A shed is just not the same thing. My parents converted only half of their garage, and it's the perfect scenario.

I'm sorry I didn't have exact dollar figures but I hope this info is helpful!

Converting garage to living space

my mom did it years ago as part of a larger renovation. It was an easy process but the contractor handled everything. The living space was greatly needed but the garage was greatly missed. Personally when I was looking to purchase I would not consider a house without an attached garage.

Converting garage to living space

if you're in a village, it will move more quickly. If you're in the town of hempstead, oyster bay, or something like that where it's a group of towns, it may take longer.

I know someone who did the same thing, and they had a hard time selling their home because alot of people prefer to have a garage. They ended up adding a detached 1 car and sold for higher that way- might be something to consider if you have the space for it

Message edited 3/25/2015 7:36:29 AM.

Re: Converting garage to living space

We didn't get permits for our renovation, but we also have no intentions of going anywhere for a long while. We did look into the permits, but one big holdback was that you can't park within 4 feet of living space. Which ultimately meant that our driveway would go from fitting 4 cars to two cars and that would never work for us since you can't park on the street overnight in our town. If or when we sell, we can always convert it back.
The building expenses were around $12,000 if I remember correctly. We converted a two car garage into a large playroom, added two large storage closets, a half bath, and built small closets around the electric box and water pump. Then we spent more on the fixtures, carpeting, and we had installed brand new garage doors before starting the project.

Re: Converting garage to living space

Right, the pp reminded me that when my parents did their partial garage conversion, they had to widen their driveway because there was some rule that you have to be able to house 2 cars on your property.

Re: Converting garage to living space