A garage makes its way onto many “must-have” lists for potential homebuyers, especially in extreme weather states like Colorado. It only takes one bad hail storm or a winter of scraping ice off your windshield to realize just how convenient a garage space is. While simply having a garage may be enough to increase your home’s overall value, having an updated garage is even better. There are plenty of DIY options to add value and appeal to your garage, even if you don’t plan on selling any time soon. 

4 Easy Ways to Update Your Garage

1. Clear the Clutter

This might go without saying, but a tidy garage is more attractive than a messy one. While some home buyers might be willing to overlook a little clutter, it might be a deal breaker for others. Do yourself a favor and clear out any items that haven’t seen the light of day for three or more months (except seasonal tools, like mowers and snow blowers). 

Likewise, throw away things that are rusted, broken, or otherwise beyond repair. If you cannot use it, it shouldn’t be taking up space. 

2. Add Storage

Shelves provide meaningful storage areas and a sense of neatness in your garage. 
 

The purpose of a garage is generally two-fold: parking and storage. If your garage has limited space for items other than a vehicle or two, consider adding some shelving units. Garage shelving is surprisingly affordable and can give your garage an immediate facelift. 

Try to keep the shelving uniform (buy one or two of the same shelf) and stock the shelves with items that make sense. Consider purchasing bins or chests to store loose items, like tools or Christmas ornaments. Label them clearly and arrange them neatly so that potential buyers can imagine how useful this space will be for them. 

3. Put in LED Lighting

Many garages still incorporate fluorescents or pull switches, which don’t provide much in the way of lighting. LED lights are cheap, easy to install, and significantly brighten the garage. Remember: being able to visualize the space is crucial for potential buyers, so light it up! 

4. Upgrade Floors

Epoxy floors protect your garage from stains and cracking while adding a clean, bright surface. 

Garage floors are a magnet for dirt, nails, leaves, and all manner of debris. Get rid of as much as you can with a garage broom or shop vac, then give the entire floor a good rinse with a power washer. 

Once your floor is sparkling, look for any cracks and fill them in with epoxy or concrete filler. When the floor is smooth, consider coating the entire area with a layer of solid epoxy flooring. 

While garage epoxy floors can be a more expensive undertaking, they are more than just a cosmetic upgrade. Epoxy floors will seal the underlying concrete against water, oil, and paint damage and help prevent additional cracks. They will also last a decade or more with routine maintenance and touch ups. 

Overall, the cost of your epoxy floor will depend on how large your garage is and the type of epoxy you use. Average costs fall somewhere between $1447 and $3006. 

Should You Convert Your Garage Into a Living Space?

Unless you do not plan on selling your home and truly need the extra living space, don’t convert your garage. Although it might seem that more square footage should add value to your home, the opposite is most often true. Remember, the appeal of a garage for most buyers is its original purpose: parking and storage.

Get Help Selling Your Colorado Home

Ready to list? Contact Jennifer Gaines with the Gaines Advantage. Jenn is a licensed Realtor® with years of experience buying and selling homes in Colorado. She works with a full team of professionals who can help get your home ready to sell quickly and for the highest possible price. Call or go online today to get started.  

Denver CO Real Estate Jennifer Gaines The REALTOR® that WORKS for you! #thegainesadvantage Specializing in matching people to homes and professional home new build and resale services in Aurora, Castle Rock, Centennial, Parker, Elizabeth, Franktown and surrounding areas. While helping you find the home of your dreams or sell your home for top dollar, your experience will be beyond phenomenal. Get the Gaines Advantage today and call or text me: Jennifer Gaines 303-906-8218 TEXT soldbyjenn TO 85377 to receive my mobile business card.   JenniferGainesReviews