If you need more space at home, converting your garage could be a great option. Whether you want an extra bedroom, a home office, or a gym, a garage conversion can help. This article will explore some ideas for converting your garage and how to finance the project

Why convert your garage? 

Many homeowners are discovering that their garages can be transformed into useful living spaces. A garage conversion can help you add more space without the need to move house. It could also increase your property value. A converted garage can become a room for work, relaxation, or anything else you need. 

Types of garage conversions 

There are many ways to change your garage, depending on what you need. Whether your garage is small or large, there are lots of possibilities. Here are some ideas: 

Home Office Conversion 

If you work from home, turning your garage into an office can be a great idea. It’s a quiet space where you can focus and work comfortably. 

Bedroom Conversion 

If you need an extra bedroom, converting your garage is a smart option. With some insulation and finishing touches, it can become a cosy room for guests, kids, or teenagers. 

Living Space Conversion 

If your home feels crowded, turning your garage into a living room or lounge can give you more space. It’s a way to add room without big changes. With the right furniture and decor, it can be as inviting as the rest of your house. 

Gym or Fitness Room Conversion 

With fitness at home being more popular, turning your garage into a gym is a great choice. Add some equipment, mirrors, and easy-to-clean flooring, and you’ll have a workout space ready whenever you need it. 

Understanding Garage Conversion Costs 

The cost of converting your garage depends on its size and the work required. A simple conversion may cost between £5,000 and £15,000. The cost could be higher if you want to add expensive features like skylights or walls. 

Here’s what affects the cost: 

Factors affecting costs 

The size of your garage, the type of conversion, and the work needed will affect the cost. Simple changes may only cost a few thousand pounds, while a more complex project with plumbing or insulation can cost much more. 

Planning and design costs 

Before you start, you’ll need to budget for planning and design. If you need to make changes to the structure, you may need planning permission. Hiring an architect or designer will also add to the cost. 

How to convert your garage on a budget 

If you want to save money, there are ways to keep costs low. You can do some of the work yourself, like painting or installing flooring. Choose budget-friendly materials that still look good and keep the design simple. 

Balancing your budget and vision 

While it’s great to create your dream space, it’s also important to stay within your budget. The key is balancing what you want with what you can afford. A mortgage broker can help you find the right financing options for your garage conversion. 

The pros and cons of an open plan living space 

If you’re thinking about an open-plan layout for your garage, consider the good and bad sides. 

Pros 

  • More natural light: Open spaces let in more light, making the room feel bigger and brighter. 
  • Improved flow: Open layouts connect different areas, which works well for flexible spaces. 
  • Better for socialising: Open spaces make it easy to chat, which is great for family time or entertaining. 

Cons 

  • Less privacy: Open spaces may not feel as private, especially for bedrooms or offices. 
  • Noise: Sounds travel more easily in open spaces, which might be distracting for quiet work or rest. 

Financing your garage conversion  

Converting your garage is an exciting project, but how do you pay for it? A secured loan offers an option to help fund your garage conversion. They are secured against your home enabling you to borrow larger sums over a longer period compared to unsecured loans. Your home is at risk of being repossessed if you don’t keep up your repayments on a secured loan. Whether you’re creating a home office, a bedroom, or a gym, consider the pros and cons of different borrowing types.  

Loan options for home improvements

Several lenders offer home improvement loans that are great for funding a garage conversion. These loans allow you to improve your living space without dipping into savings or spreading your borrowing over a longer term to ensure manageable repayments.

Eligibility and application process 

To apply, you’ll need to meet the eligibility criteria and provide documents such as proof of income and the value of your home. An expert broker will guide you through the secured loan process. 

You can also use our home improvement loan calculator to get a sense of what your monthly repayment might be. 

Final thoughts 

A garage conversion is a great way to add more space and increase your home’s value. Whether you want a home office, bedroom, or gym, there are many ideas to choose from. The cost depends on the type of project, but with good planning and budgeting, a garage conversion can be a smart investment. Searching for a homeowner loan with competitive rates and flexible terms could help you finance your conversion. Find a Broker today for expert advice and help with the best loan options for your situation.