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We have a 24'x36', post frame outbuilding that we're considering finishing. Originally the thought was to make it a MIL unit, but we'd need a new septic system for that, unfortunately, that's not going to work.
So essentially, it's an unused space right now. The interior is unfinished, but insulated, it was formerly used as a shop so it's got a sub-panel and some outlets at 120v, and others at 240v. We have a few options, from simply drywalling/flooring the space into one big room, or up to adding a bathroom (but no kitchen, since that would turn it into an accessory dwelling, which'll require a separate septic system.).
The thought process went something like this --
1. We could add some recessed lighting, drywall/paint it, and just have one big room.
2. Would we leave the outlets at counter/workbench height, or re-wire to drop down to typical height?
3. If we're having electrical done, it's not going to be cheap, should we add a bathroom? Kitchen? Make it a great entertaining space? (Kitchen won't work. Doh. Maybe just a bathroom and a kitchenette of sorts.
4. Maybe we shouldn't do the bathroom, that's a huge expense and probably not that useful.
5. Aww, is it even worth doing? I mean, we have plenty of space inside the house...
So we're trying to decide if there's a value add there for the space -- is there be more value in leaving the space as an unfinished shop, or undertaking some sort of remodeling effort to make it a more useful space (for us)? There's ample space inside the house, so having another large room isn't necessarily universally useful to any future owners of our house...
We have a 24'x36', post frame outbuilding that we're considering finishing. Originally the thought was to make it a MIL unit, but we'd need a new septic system for that, unfortunately, that's not going to work.
If you plan on eventually selling the house, then I would consult with a local real estate person as to what would increase the value of the property the most - might be worth it do the more expensive options or there may be no return on that investment?
If you plan to live there forever, think about your future needs and those of your kids/parents ALL the way into the future. Could a kid lose his job and need somewhere to stay? Or an elderly parent need to be moved to your house? Or with yourselves, might you some day need someone living there who would take care of you?
Or financial - maybe you could use the extra money at some point if you could rent it out? Retirement?
Or maybe you would prefer to keep it so no one could ever live there - keep them all away!
Sounds like you are putting the cart before the horse. So the original purpose didn't work out and you now have a decision. How are you going to use the room, if at all. If you have plans that need a work shop that is the way to go if not then the other way is the way to go. You need to define how YOU will use the space.
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