Hi - We are considering adding a garage .. we are thinkning about moving in the next year though, but we'd love the extra storage space and to be able to park the car in there.

But I know it adds value - just wondering about the cost to value factor....

If it helps we are in CT.

We are looking at 2 types of garages - the shed style that would have a ramp up into it with a wooden bottom - or the traditional garage with cement bottom permanently attached.

The shed style is obviously cheaper (about $5500 for 12x16 with garage style door, side entrance and window vs standard gar costing 7-12000 roughly) and easier to put in... but not sure about the value it adds. I realize value is in the eye of the buyer - but just any estimate would be great...

Thx
Rae

I'd say go with the permanent, cement-bottom style. A garage will add value, but one that looks like a kids' playhouse will add very little compared to the sturdy cement type. Also, make sure it's well constructed -- call in the professionals, and don't skimp on the details. Adding the word "garage" to your listing will easily net you thousands more than it cost to build it.

Well I don't think they look like kid's playhouses.. theer are some small ones that do.. but the good sized ones with garage style doors don't....

here's a pic of an example - not the exact one I want, but similar...

http://www.pre-built.com/garages/06.htm

actually the one on this page is almost exactly the one we aer looking at - just one less window...

http://www.qualityoutdoorstructures.com/

BJ's whoilesale (basically costco) has deals with that company so thats how I found them...

Dont expect a dollar for dollar return. If you dont have a true garage, like siggy suggested "a permanent, cement-bottom style" now, I would guess a 25-50% return on your first and only garage. If you get one of those storage shed types, expect a minimal return as these could be considered personal property due to the lack of permanent installation.
Before the FLAMING begins, this is in MY MARKET AREA where homes typically have a one or two car garage. Adding a pre-fab $15000 one car detatched will not add $15000 in value to your property, maybe half on a line adjustment. I dont know your area, home values in your neighborhood or predominant values of homes in your town. This is in MY town where homes range from $75-$150+. It ain't Cali.

OK thanks. I kind of figured there wouldn't be much value in the shed style, but they do look very nice - in comparison to the ugly tin shed I have right now . Just may not be best thing for a garage....


Rae

All value aside...is it what you LIKE and you WANT? That is what is most important. I just spent $5G on an outdoor furnace. Will I see an equal return? Heck no, but I'm saving $2G's+ a year on heating oil. If one of those pretty sheds will make you and your riding lawnmower happy, get it Rae. Would make a nice present to yourself huh?

I think the first one was better. It looks more like a garage. I wouldn't like a garage with a ramp if I needed it to actually house a car, truck, or SUV. That being said, you are the one that has to live with it for a year or so. So you should do what makes you happy. Unfortunately, it's hard to say how it will affect your home's value.