Basement options

[boiler717]

We are thinking about a basement reno and I’m trying to decide what route to go (minimal versus fuller). Our basement was redone in maybe the 80s and is pretty out of date (bathroom maybe in the 70s). It is our “guest room” once we start having guests again. I just don’t know if it’s worth it to spend all the $$$ on essentially a kid zone. If you have older kids do you find having a kitchenette area in the basement is helpful? Any other thoughts?

Our must-haves (under $10k)
- New carpet and paint
- Remove oversized built ins and fireplace mantle

Would be nice ($25-35k total including above)
- Update bathroom (it is super super tiny so would need to expand a bit and I would love a big tub in the basement as we don’t have a good one for taking baths upstairs)
- Add kitchenette area (no sink/water but fridge, counter)

Would be REALLY nice (probably $50k-ish total per contractor but I’m thinking may be a little more)
- remove one small 5’ wall to open up kitchenette area to basement
- Sink/water in kitchenette area
- Move bathroom closer to main basement / kitchenette area (right now you walk past the laundry chute and our exercise area to get to bathroom)