To Garage or Not to Garage (Gilbert: how much, houses, neighborhood)

[Anda]

I am thinking about converting my carport into a garage. I just wanted to get some feedback as to how much you all think it would add to the value of my house. I live in Gilbert and it is an older, but nice, neighborhood. Thanks!

[nitram]

Converting from carport to garage is a good investment. A house with a garage will sell easier than one without, and for more money.
You have more security for your vehicle with a garage plus you get the advantage of storage space.
Make sure its converted/built to city codes.

[sablebaby]

Definitely do it!

[jco]

When my parents enclosed their carport to make an extra room, they had to turn it into a garage to sell it. I think it will save you time. I don't know that it will add that much value, but when I search the MLS, I check 2 car garage. I wouldn't even see your house without it.

[Master Shake]

If you do convert your carport to a garage, make sure you insulate the walls and even the ceiling if you can. During construction, it will not be that much additional cost or labor, but it will offer a great benefit and can be a plus when you sell.

[Boatdrinks]

I agree with the others - you probably won't get all that money back when you sell, but it could be the difference between selling and not sellling. Most houses have garages now, most have 2+ car garages, and you'd be competing against all those. Given a choice between a house with a garage and a house without, all else being equal, most will go with the garage.

[AZ91]

I would recommend doing the conversion.

[Anda]

Thank you all for your comments! I think we are going to go for it! I agree I don't think that it will pay for its self right away, but I don't think the market will be like this forever and hopefully we can recoup the costs in the long run. Thanks again for the input, it really was helpful

[twiggy]

Good idea!

[63ragtop]

I live in an area where 1/2 the homes have car ports. A lot of the people have converted them into garages while I have lived here. I think it makes the house look more up to date. I am not familiar with the costs involved as my house has a garage already (not converted) but it will definitely make your house more desirable if you need to sell in the future.

I have had a couple AZ natives tell me that they hate garages because it "cooks" your car since there is no air flow. This sounds crazy to me but I have seen various people in my area leaving their garage doors cracked a little at the bottom during the summer.

I think most people expect a 2-car garage nowadays on an older home and often a 3-car garage on new builds.