There are few real estate features that are more impressive to buyer’s than having a property that includes a guest house. Not only is a guest house a promotional point for your home, but many homeowners utilize the extra square footage of the space to house long terms guests, to rent out for extra money, or simply to afford privacy to a college-age child. If you have a guest house but don’t visualize yourself going for any of these traditional options, then it is time to consider converting this extra square footage into something that you can really use. Perhaps a pool home, a gym, or a home office would work better for you?
Of course, the true amount of remodeling required to achieve your goal for your guest house will differ based on what kind of shape the guest house is in now. It will also depend on how much alteration you want to make. Even if you wind up needing to hire a contractor, you can go ahead and start the planning process now.
The majority of guest houses are basically setup like a mini-house. It probably has a cooking area, one or two bedrooms, and a living room area. You need to determine how you can best use the square footage for you, rather than how the guest house is presently setup.
For example, if you would like to turn your guest facilities into a pool house, chances are you won’t need a kitchen unless you intend to do some serious entertaining, but you may want to keep the bathrooms and bedrooms as changing and storage areas. If you want to turn your guest house into a home gym, you may want to get rid of every room except the bathroom in order to make space for your exercise equipment.
When you are determining exactly what you do and do not need, it can be helpful to figure out what your needs are first. Think about how much space you actually require, depending on what your project is. Do you need open spaces? Or, just an office? Next, consider how many separate rooms that you are going to need. Keeping the bathroom is a good idea no matter what your purpose is. You also may need storage space. Now, think about the course of remodeling. How much work will it take to get your guest house looking the way you want it to look? The amount of remodeling needed will depend on how many actual structural changes you will have to implement. If the amount of remodeling is outside of your budget, be willing to change your plan until you find the right balance.
Whatever you decide to use the guest house for should determine what materials you decide to install. For instance, you wouldn’t want to install carpet in an office or a gym because it can be damaged by office chairs or equipment. On the other hand, installing tile can still make the area look inviting and cozy. Also consider the height of the ceilings in your guest house. If you have a dropped ceiling, you may not be able to squeeze exercise equipment in. Also, if it is in your budget, consider the window placement. If you want a desk with a view, your guest house may not be able to give this to you depending on the window placement.
Mull over your likes and dislikes as well as what function you would like the space to have. Look in books, magazines, and online and get lots of ideas and suggestions. After all, this remodeling venture should be something that you take pleasure in!
