How Much Value Does a Finished Basement Add to Your Home?

October 20, 2022

Renovations are a time-honored way to improve your home’s value, but not all renovations provide the same return on investment. 


Now, you’re likely wondering: will a finished basement add value to your home?

basement space

The answer depends on the cost of finishing or remodeling a basement in Ontario, which includes the materials you use and your desired basement design. The real estate market will also play a significant role in the ROI of your renovation. 


Basement renovations often turn what might otherwise be storage space into an entirely new extra living area to spend time and host company. When you decide to sell, potential buyers will see how the finished basement helps them get more out of the house.


When considering a basement renovation project in Ontario, you’ll need to consider the total basement renovation cost and how it will impact the future listing price. Keep reading to learn more about how basement renovations can boost your home value.

Does Renovating a Basement Add Value to Your Home?

Generally, basement renovations will result in an average price increase of approximately 70% of the renovation costs. For example, if you spend $100,000 on your basement, you can expect an average return of $70,000 in value. 


The average basement reno cost in Ontario
ranges from $25,000 to $60,000, but your actual costs can be significantly lower or higher depending on your design and materials. When deciding your basement renovation budget, it’s essential to keep the 70% guideline in mind as you won’t likely recover the entire cost at resale.

What Adds the Most Value When Finishing a Basement?

If you browse Milton homes for sale with finished basement, you’ll discover what types of renovations have the greatest impact on value. 


A few general guidelines to add the most value during your renovation include:


  • Open floor plans: These plans are often preferable to several closed-off rooms as they make the space seem large
  • Full-size windows: Install full-size windows to emphasize natural lighting can make a big difference
  • Family-friendly spaces: Look to create spaces for recreation and entertainment as they tend to valued by buyers
  • Basement bathroom: Having an additional bathroom can make the space more usable and livable


The real estate market at the time of selling plays a significant role in the value you ultimately get from your renovation. The key to maximizing your ROI is to plan the cost of your basement remodeling project in Ontario with current real estate market trends.

Do Finished Basements Count in a Home Appraisal?

Does a finished basement add value? If so, how much value does a finished basement add in Canada?


The answer depends on the type of basement you plan to create. Basements will count in your home appraisal but are generally considered ‘below-grade’ unless your basement is partially or entirely above ground or a walk-out basement. Below-grade remodels have a reduced ROI when compared to above-grade renovations.

Is a Finished Basement a Good Investment?

The average cost to finish a basement in Ontario will vary based on the design and building materials of the renovation. Considering the average of $70,000, you can expect to add $50,000 to your home. 


Does this make the renovation a good investment? Remember that home renovation and improvement projects aren’t only about adding value, they can also make a difference in finding the right buyer for your home. After all, the more attractive your property, the better it will stand out on the market.


Are you thinking of selling your home in Milton or the surrounding areas?
Contact Flowers Team Real Estate today to get the most value for your property.

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