How large is an average basement?

Most other designs justify further excavations to create a full-height basement, sufficient for another level of living space. Even so, basements in Canada and the northern United States were typically only 7 feet 10 inches (2.39 m) in height, rather than the standard full 8 feet (2.4 m) of the main floors.

Is finishing a small basement worth it?

While an unfinished basement works great as extra storage space, your basement could be used much more effectively if it were finished. Besides expanding your home’s functional space, finishing a basement can give the property’s value a major boost.

Can a basement be considered living space?

You’re sure any potential buyer would agree that it looks great, and is definitely livable space. But, your real estate professional is correct, the square footage of your basement cannot be included in the size of your home for listing purposes. Below grade spaces include lower levels and basements.

Can a basement be included in a home size?

Just about the only thing most everyone agrees on is that basement (or sub-grade) living space should not be included. As a result, this has created a patchwork of inaccurate and often misrepresented home sizes across the country.

Are there any downsides to a basement apartment?

Basement apartments usually have a separate entrance or access to an outdoor space, points out Kobi Lahav, the senior managing director at brokerage Living NY. On the downside, your window is at ground level so it may be easy to see into your unit.

How tall of a ceiling do you need for a basement apartment?

In New York City, where basement apartments are fairly common, legal guidelines require adequate exits and ceilings that are at least 7 feet high, for example. If you’re considering a basement unit, Place recommends reviewing the building’s “Certificate of Occupancy,” which should detail whether you can live in the basement as a standalone unit.

Is it legal to have a basement apartment in New York?

In New York City, cellars aren’t considered legal living spaces in one- and two-family homes. What is a daylight basement apartment? A daylight basement has at least one full-sized window or even a sliding door, says Bryan Stoddard, director of Homewares Insiders, a home and design site.

How tall does a basement have to be in New York City?

A basement has at least 50 percent of its height above street level, but a cellar has at least half its height underground, says Nadine Adamson, an associate broker at Brown Harris Stevens in New York City and townhome specialist. In New York City, cellars aren’t considered legal living spaces in one- and two-family homes.

What do you need to know about a basement apartment?

Here’s what else you need to know before locking into a lease for a basement apartment, or signing closing documents to purchase one. Garden-level is a loose term, says New York City real estate agent John Jenis. It could mean there’s green space in front or in back of the building, which might be accessible to the apartment.