Our REALTORS® have seen many home trends come and go over the years, but one thing that always appeals to prospective buyers and new homeowners is extra space for leisure activities.

Having a recreation space in the basement is an excellent option for kids and adults alike. Recreational activities help banish stress, promote relaxation, allow for some quality family time, and help keep the kids busy. Not only will your family enjoy using it, but it can increase the value of your home. If you have unfinished or unused space in your basement, here are some ideas to make the most of it.

• Declutter first
  Always start here. You'll get a better idea of the size and be able to envision the possibilities. If you're currently using it for storage, you may have to relocate some of those items.

• Decide how to use the space
  If you have a large space, you can divide the space, either visually or physically, for multiple uses. Depending on what you want to do, the size or shape of the space, positioning of pipes, HVAC vents or equipment, and access to electrical outlets or water may be considerations, so it pays to have a plan first. Here are a few popular ideas that families enjoy.

  • TV and living area
  • Home theater
  • Gaming area
  • Traditional rec room activities like a pool table, foosball, ping pong, air hockey, or even a retro arcade game.
  • Children's activity area
  • Reading nook

• Consider your family's activities and style
  Since you'll want a space the whole family will enjoy, you may want to get everyone's input. You'll also want everyone to feel comfortable in the space. Here are some considerations you may find useful for a family area.

  • Add a child-sized table and chairs or an upholstered chair
  • When storing children's items make sure they can reach them easily.
  • If you'll be spending lots of time there, add a half bathroom for convenience.

• Repaint
  Light or bright colors on the walls are best since basements are short on natural light. A different color or a painted stripe can serve to visually divide the space for multiple uses.

• Update or add flooring
  Many basements simply have a concrete floor and some older homes may even have flooring tiles that contain asbestos and would need to be professionally removed. Adding flooring will help keep the area warmer in the winter too. Make sure whatever you choose is suitable for the below-grade installation. You could use different flooring to visually divide the space as well.

• Make sure there's enough space to move around
  It's especially important for traditional gaming tables like a pool table or if you plan to do VR gaming. Depending on the length of the cues, pool tables will need a minimum of 4-1/2 feet clearance on all sides. VR games require at least enough room to stretch out and move your arms and legs in all directions without hitting anyone else or knocking anything over (usually around 5-6 feet). For other uses, just make sure your family members can move through the area easily.

Coach Realtors can help with your home search in Nassau County, Suffolk County, and the surrounding areas. Contact us today to get started finding the right home for your family.