Garages are in

January 11, 2007

In California where homes have no attics and no basements, garages become the storage area and "dumping ground" for all our possessions that are not being used, but too precious to throw away. After awhile, the "stuff" in the garage pushes the cars out and becomes the out-of-sight, out-of-mind "stuff" that we know we need to sort and organize.

Well, the trend in real estate amenities is toward clean and neat garages - 3 car, at least - and lots of built-in cabinets and storage systems. The really appealing garages will be finished with dry wall, heating and air conditioning and a durable but designer floor.

Obviously the homes in Riverside and San Bernardino counties that were built back in the 1920s, 30s, 40s, etc. are not going to meet the 3 car requirement, or even the 2 car standard.
This means that these home owners will be challenged to clean up, organize and make the most of whatever garage space they have.

Will this make a difference in the value of your home? The market definitely is beginning to reflect the potential buyers' desire for a spacious garage. When comparing your home to other homes of the same number of bedrooms, baths and square feet of living space, it now is important to include pluses and minuses for the garage type.