My New Blog

Seems everyone you talk to has a different opinion about basements.  One person said no matter how you cut it, it is still a hole in the ground.  In Ohio it is becoming ever more popular to "finish" off the basement into a liveable area. 

Some finish off basements for the children so they will have a good place to store all those toys, mini homes, dolls, cars, etc. and to play with them.  Seems logical.  Others finish off the basement so the teens will have a place to but their technological toys, music, computers, tvs, etc., as well as have a place to meet with their friends in a safe place.  Yet others see that basement living space for a bar for adults or perhaps a great place for a pool table or perhaps a very grown up media room complete with staggered and staged reclining chairs--with cup holders of course.

Still others see the basement as a place primarily suited for storage.  Or others as a great place for a work shop, laundry, or general work area. For these, finishing off a basement is needless. 

And the storm/tornado fearing element see basements as yet a haven of safety. Weather broadcasters recommend people find the lowest level in the home in the case of a possible high wind situation.  Personally, I don't remember ever going to the basement when there is a storm.  I am far too curious.  I want to watch the lightening and hear the thunder and see the hail and/or rain.  Not a good idea, and curiosity supposedly killed the cat.

Realtors long argued that finished basement area should be considered as liveable space in a house listing.  After a great deal of debate, our MLS finally decided to allow two home measurements.....one determined as space above grade as indicated by the auditor....and space that is actually considered finished for living....as in a finished basement.  There is still debate about egress and walk-out and windowless basements. 

All the reasons to spend time in a basement are probably totally legitimate, but I do not like basements. The idea of a very efficient under-ground home totally turns me off.  I like the sunshine and open areas, and windows...all those more or less inefficient (energy-wise) types of things. But basements are not my favorite place, no matter how beautifully it is finished.  I must agree with those who think it is a hole in the ground. Ha.