Some of you will call me OCD. Go ahead! But, I found myself one cheapskate builder when we built 9 years ago. I wasn't in the real estate business back then and maybe I didn't know any better. I didn't pre-determine if the completed construction project would include a garage paint job. I should have known, this is the same builder who did not consider a fireplace mantel a standard feature - we paid extra. Hard to believe, but just 9 years ago the area home builders were just the independents. Since that time, national homebuildres have bought up land and are giving those independent cheapskates a run for their money. To compete with the nationals, the independents are now including a lot more stuff.
It's been nagging at me ever since we moved in. Every time I pull into my garage I am reminded of clutter and disorganization. The unpainted walls make it look dark, dirty and grungy. I know when I sell in a few years that buyers will appreciate the look of a bright and clean garage that is somewhat organized. It may not help resale value but I'm sure it will show that we take pride. I believe a staged garage will give buyers the impression that the home has been maintained inside and out.
So, this weekend, my husband has been hard at work in getting the garage painted. Next weekend he's even going to work on an epoxy painted floor. I know he has worked very hard this weekend. And, expect that he will be snoring very loud tonight!
Hey Carol nothing wrong with painting the garage, i just came back looking at a home and they had Italian Marble floors, my guess about $150k's worth. As long as you like it and it makes you feel good well worth it. Plus you got an inexpensive Painter:))
Now just get some killer storage and it should look wonderful! I'd be interested in how easy it is to epoxy the floor -- I have seen the kits but haven't tried it!
Carol, Garages do look better painted. Builders have gotten away from that concept, probably to save money. They've told me it's because they don't consider it living space. BTW, if you fall asleep first he won't snore tonight...but maybe you will.
Endre - Marble floors in the garage? That's a bit excessive? I'd be afraid of slipping when it get's wet? I wonder what's up with that - do these people entertain in their garage?
Margaret - Yup, I am already thinking of storage. We already have some industrial metal shelving and the Grey Rubbermaid storage cabinet to match the Rubbermaid workbench with pegboard wall and attached lighting. I think the paln might be to use what I have - with plastic storage bins on the shelving. The biggest task - pitching what we no longer need. My son still lives at home and plays adult hockey. His equipment old and new along with other sports gear has become sacred to him.
Richard - Good point - I gotta beat him to sleep and then i won't hear a thing.
I was in one the other week that had actual hardwood flooring in the garage. Of course, it was now in very bad shape, but I just wondered what on earth they were thinking or what they used the place for! I agree - we are already contemplating selling ours and on my to do list is to put a fresh coat on the garage and to epoxy the floor (would love to hear how that goes!).
We want to see pictures when you are finished.
The garage is critically important, more than most realize. It's the area where the purchaser envisions storing all their stuff, and neat organized garages appeal to both sexes. And, don't make the mistake most sellers make by putting all their packed boxes in the garage; store them away from the site.
All I can say is that I appreciate a clean and organized garage, when I'm out showing buyers. I know the wife isn't usually impressed but it's one more posited check on the husband's side of the ledger.
I can't believe a builder didn't paint the garage! He truly was a cheapskate. Bet he's out of business.
Interestingly, the builders here in Charleston, SC sell their houses with unfinished garages. It's the most common comment I get from buyers on new construction. Are they going to finish the garage? I guess it's one way to cut corners right now.
On resales, it's important for the garage to be neat, organized and decluttered. I had a listing once with an oversized 2 car garage. The seller had it stuffed with children's toys and the buyer's feedback was that the garage wasn't big enough. The seller said, why can't they see how much stuff I can fit in there. Go figure!
Carol, I think your "after" picture is much better than the "before" picture so you done good. I have seen many unfinished garages with new construction. You almost have to ask for it sometimes.
Barbara - it;s been pretty much the norm here. The builder who goes the extra mile is gets point in my book. My next door neighbor had a different builder - their garage was painted. I am the listing agent and one thing I tell everybody - you gotta see the garage. It's not only painted but it's well organized!
Michelle- this is a lesson to be learned - all agents should be advising their buyers to be certain to make it a condition of the contract if it's important to them to not have to do this work afterward.
Gary - I will try to do a follow up after we get the floor done and the storage taken care of. I will admit, I am cheap now too, since we might be selling, I'dbe reluctant to invest in the killer storage units. I will probably make do with what we have and maybe add a couple more attached shelves to the walls. I have told him to move the chest freezer, since it was in the front of the garage near the door. It's a side entry, but it was on the wall that everybody could see from the street and I told him I was embarrassed that it looked a little trashy to see the freezer - like it's where we dump the roadkill! :)
Great post. Surprised to see Lane Bailey hasn't chimed in on this one - guess he will now as soon as Google Alerts notifies him I used his name. I don't think you're OCD and when a buyer has a special car this is VERY important. Seriously, very. Did I say very?
A finished garage makes a big difference. The epoxy floors are real nice. It will feel good every time you go out there.
I love the look of a painted garage. It makes the house look more complete. Congrats on putting honey to work. I can't wait to see the after pictures.
My garage looks like your before pictures! I'll have to seriously consider painting it when it comes time to move. Great low cost tip for homeowners who are considering selling.