If you’ve been following real estate trends recently, you’ve probably noticed how outdoor spaces in the home have become just as important as the inside. Since sheds are a common staple of many homes, it only makes sense that if you have a shed, you repurpose it from storage to a summer hideaway for your family.
Aside from the immediate benefit of having a place to have fun with your family, turning your shed into a hideaway is a great way to make your home more attractive to buyers which can help if you choose to find a different place to live down the road. With those points in mind, here’s a few tips you can use to turn your shed into a summer hideaway.
Improve the comfort of the space
If you originally built your shed just for storage purposes, then your immediate priority needs to be on making the space liveable even if your family is using it sporadically. At a minimum, this means installing insulation, installing air conditioning and/or heating, and installing smart lights that support a variety of hues.
You also will need to add a couch, table, lamp, and other furnishings so you can treat it like another space in your home. Rather than purchasing brand new furniture, it’s best to bring out older furniture from your main rooms that you plan to upgrade or you can purchase used furnishings via online marketplaces and thrift stores.
If your budget permits, upgrades such as adding windows, converting the floor to a more comfortable material (e.g. cork, tile, carpet), and installing a retractable awning can also significantly increase the utility of the shed.
Make the most of the space
Lofts are a great way to make the most of limited space. For example they free up floor space by enabling you to keep stuff off the ground, plus you also can benefit from having less pets depending on what you’re storing.
Many home improvement and department stores sell overhead storage racks which are sturdy and relatively easy to install. If you’re crafty or want something that really fits your space you can also DIY your own custom loft.
Ask a realtor for advice
If you’re thinking of selling your home then you should speak with a real estate agent for tips about upgrading your shed. While you can always DIY research on what’s popular in home design, real estate agents know the ins and outs of the regions they work in which is why they can offer tips that will help your home pop compared to others in your neighborhood, as opposed to cookie-cutter advice that applies to all homeowners.
If you’re worried about the cost of consulting with a real estate agent, it’s important to know that real estate agents work on commission which means there are no upfront costs and the agent’s compensation is determined based on the sale price of your home. This compensation model means the agent’s success depends on them getting top dollar for your home.