Does Adding a Carport Increase Home Values?
Would adding a carport increase the value of your home? There is no definitive answer, but generally speaking, adding a carport has the very real potential of increasing the value of your home.
A well-built carport can add anywhere from 3-5% value onto the overall price of your house, so if you're currently in the market or plan on being in the near future, carports are definitely worth considering.
Benefits of a Carport
A carport is a great way to protect your vehicle from the weather, whether you live in a rainy climate or in an area with extreme temperatures. It can protect the exterior of cars from getting wet and rusty, or even worse damaged by hail or falling branches, which can save you money on deductibles and also protect the value of your vehicle. And, when it comes time to sell your home, most potential buyers will appreciate the addition of a carport over an open driveway.
A carport can also be a valuable addition to your property if you like to entertain guests, as it provides a covered space for them to park their car, or it can be used as a cover from the elements while entertaining.
Additionally, a well-built carport can also add aesthetic appeal to your home and property. It can be cheaper to purchase and install than a garage, and it’s a great alternative if a garage would not be possible due to permitting or space issues.
Since a carport can provide storage space for other things besides vehicles, it may add even more value to your home depending on how you use it. For example, many homeowners store lawn tools in their carport storage area in order to reduce clutter throughout their garage. Others opt for a workshop with an electrical outlet so they can have light while tinkering under the hood of their vehicle. Some families even choose to have a carport installed as an awning over a hot tub, or as a covered play area for the kids when not in use.
Carport Considerations
Since a carport is usually not attached to your home like a garage, and because it does not provide shelter for humans, typically the value of your home will only increase by a few percent. This marginal difference in value also depends on the size and design of your carport. The difference can be larger if you choose to incorporate other amenities inside your carport, such as storage space or a workshop. Also, a high-quality carport will add more value than one of lower quality, and it will also last longer, thus saving you money on repair or replacement costs.
If you are thinking of adding a carport to your home, be sure to consult with your city officials about specific regulations that may apply to your area. Building a carport without proper permits can cause more headaches and expense than it is worth in the long run.
Also, if you plan to add a workshop or storage space inside the carport, make sure these additions do not conflict with local safety regulations. Many cities require detached structures like workshops and garages to be at least 10 feet from the road in order to reduce traffic accidents and noise pollution.
But I Can Build My Own! How Hard Can It Be?
Thinking of building your own carport? Unless you have experience building things like this yourself, it’s best to consult with professionals (like us!)—skilled specialists who will be able to offer you some good advice as to your specific needs and how you should go about this kind of project.
You may save a few dollars up front, but if the carport is not properly constructed, it may do more damage to your car and home in the long run. A poorly-built carport can also be a safety hazard and an eyesore, and it can possibly decrease your home's value, so it's important to choose a reputable company to get the job done correctly.
Unless you're a professional builder, it's best to connect with an experienced company who can help you design and build a quality carport that meets your specific needs and will last for years to come. Plus, with all of the different options available these days, there's sure to be one that fits both your needs and your budget.
If you're ready to get started, our professional design and construction team are happy to work with you to build the perfect carport to fit your needs. Feel free to browse our website for ideas, or try our custom Design Your Shed software to view possibilities.
Browse our inventory to see all our available sheds, garages, and storage buildings, or come by one of our convenient locations to check out our high quality construction for yourself. You can even use our online configurator to see all the options available to you.