Converting a garage from a parking spot into creative space is significantly less expensive than what a standard addition would cost. Chances are it’s already plumbed and wired, too—yet another budget-friendly appeal to this project. But before you get started, do your homework. Find out if this remodel complies with local building codes, and if there’s enough alternative parking for you and guests (some homeowners associations prohibit long-term parking in the driveway or on the street). Adding another 600 square feet of living space sounds good for resale, but if a garage is a must-have for homebuyers in your climate, this conversion could actually hurt your home’s value. If, however, you and your housing market can stand to part with the garage, let the conversion begin. Many a man cave, stunning study, playroom, home office or den started as garages. Assuming your garage has a window or two already, consider installing a room air conditioner that heats and cools, such as one from Friedrich’s Kühl series (did we mention it’s available in six colors and comes with a remote control?). It’s cheaper than expanding your central air system, and the timer lets you program on/off times to correlate with the room’s use.
