We tapped a few real estate experts for the best garage upgrades and features worth considering in 2022. It turns out, nice-to-have features, like storage, fresh paint, and epoxy flooring, are the most popular, so you can update your garage even if a major overhaul isn't in your budget.
You've overhauled the kitchen, replaced the HVAC, and created an outdoor space that's the envy of the neighborhood. But when it comes to listing your home, a less-than-appealing garage can be a hindrance. Having a garage at all (regardless of what shape it's in) is a great start, but going the extra mile can pay off, says Kim Soper, a realtor with Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Cypress in Lexington, Kentucky. "A good garage may not be the deciding factor on if someone buys a home, but it can be the cherry on the top to sway the buyer to making an offer," she says.
Real estate experts agree: there's no such thing as too much storage. "Overhead storage racks add a lot to garages with limited space," says Scott Beaudry, broker and owner of Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Universal in Henderson, Nevada. "Floating storage and workshop cabinets are a design trend we're seeing that also adds to ease of cleaning."
With all your extra storage space, make sure you're not crowding walls. Soper warns cardboard boxes and other storage items could cause moisture issues if they don't allow enough space for airflow.
"Some folks park in the garage and some do not, so this area can work as a flex space, such as a workshop, a place to house garden tools, [or] a place to throw down a nice rug, add some cute chairs, open your garage door, and chat with neighbors," says Soper.
Throughout the pandemic, Soper noticed more garage gatherings. "Opening the garage and being able to chat with neighbors and social distance was a wonderful way to still maintain that community feel." No matter the purpose you assign to your garage, Soper reassures that you can't go wrong—well, mostly. "Just don't keep your horse in there!"
The main objective for your garage should be a clean, organized space, but if you're really looking to go the extra mile, there are a number of upgrades that can provide a finished look. Epoxy-covered floors, LED lighting, and a fresh coat of white paint on the walls are all very appealing, according to Soper. If you're really looking to ensure your garage stands out from the rest, consider an insulated door. "Even when it is cold outside, with an insulated door, one could still take advantage of the space if they use the garage as a workshop, craft space, or gym space," she says.
While adding square footage to your existing garage might not be on your radar, those who are building a new home might consider garage depth as a potential upgrade. Extended-length garages can be especially appealing to buyers with newer trucks, according to both George Akers, a realtor for Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate S. J. Fowler, and Michele DuPont, a broker for Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Kansas City Homes. "Extended length garages are in demand as today's trucks are longer and will not fit in many standard garages," says Akers. "So extra length and even height for lifted trucks are coveted by many who will measure the garage of any home that piques their interest."