This list will assist you in making the right decision about finishing your basement.

1. Waterproofing

Protecting your basement from water infiltration and damage is the first thing you should do. To determine your basement's needs, it is important to have a professional assess it. Protect your basement after it's finished!

2. Add a built-in dehumidifier

Basements are more prone to mold and moisture. Some homeowners went through quite a few dehumidifiers before they completed theirs. We decided to have them a built-in humidifier system. It is usually located in the utility room and connects to the wall vents in their living space. It is quieter than a standalone unit and also more powerful. The unit drains directly, so you don't have to empty it. You can also adjust how humid you want. It is so convenient not to have a standing unit or to maintain it. The air feels fresh and clean.

3. Removal of any Poles

In the basement, there might originally be a pole. The pole may block your plans for the couch, and it may cause you to feel restricted. It should be removed by professionals who will evaluate it. They will replace it with a support beam that runs across the ceiling, and on each end, they will add two poles that are out of the way. The new walls will enclose them.

4. Add Egress Windows

Egress windows have a tremendous impact on a space. Egress windows give the space a less basement feel and bring light and beauty. It is also great to open them up and enjoy the fresh air. You could also make a basement code compliant, which allowed for sleepovers (second exit/fire escape). You would want it to be safe, but also because you may intend to use the space for sleepovers with your children and their friends.

5. Addition of a bathroom

Some may have a house which had only one and a quarter bathrooms before they could finish the basement. Don't regret having one down there. While it's convenient to have one in case you have to use it, it's also handy to have another in the house for when the first one is not in use. A full bathroom can be added in the basement, which could also be used for guest rooms.

6. Use pocket and barn doors

Two spots needed doors: one to the laundry area and one to the bathroom. You can choose to install a barn and pocket doors due to the small basement. It looks so clean and doesn't have any doors opening, and the barndoor adds a lot more character.