GARAGE
How to Estimate a Garage Conversion
Contractor method for converting a garage into living space: area, scope, finishes and permits.
Garage conversions fail on the scope and the finishes. The area is easy math; basic, full and high-end are very different prices, and the HVAC and permits grow the quote.
THE SHORT ANSWER
How do you estimate a garage conversion?
Measure the area, choose the scope (basic $25, full $40, high-end $75/sq ft), then add finishes (~$8/sq ft) and permits (~$500). A 440 sq ft full conversion with finishes runs about $21,620.
Measure the garage
Measure the garage area in sq ft and note the existing structure. A 1-car garage is ~240 sq ft; a 2-car ~440 sq ft. Confirm what's already there.
- Measure the floor area
- Check the slab and framing condition
- Note existing electrical and plumbing
- Check ceiling height
Pick the scope
A basic conversion runs ~$25/sq ft, full ~$40 and high-end ~$75. Full includes drywall, insulation and HVAC; high-end adds premium finishes.
Price the finishes and permits
Finishes and HVAC add ~$8/sq ft and permits ~$500. Use the Garage Conversion Cost Calculator to build the quote, then add any bathroom or kitchen work.
Check the total
Your total should land within 10% of the calculator output before markup. Confirm the permit and zoning before you quote.