Does a garage increase the value of your home?
- coraliefortin076
- Sep 1
- 6 min read
Every homeowner considering building or renovating a house, cottage, or garage asks themselves the question: will adding or improving a garage add significant value when it comes time to sell?
At Plan Maison Québec, we believe the answer is overwhelmingly "yes," but this value depends on several key factors. This article will help you, as a reader interested in building or renovating, understand when a garage truly adds value and how to maximize this benefit.
1 . What the experts say
When considering building a garage or adding one to an existing home, it's natural to wonder if the investment is really worth it. Many real estate experts, chartered appraisers, and brokers confirm that having a garage is a desirable feature sought after by buyers and can significantly impact a property's value.
At Plan Maison Québec, we rely on field data and Quebec market trends to guide our clients. Here's a look at what experts in the field have to say.
An element of comfort that has become essential
Real estate professionals agree that a garage is much more than just a parking space. It's seen as a comfort feature, especially in regions with harsh winters. It protects vehicles from the elements, reduces the need for snow removal, and extends the lifespan of many mechanical components. For these reasons, Quebec buyers place great value on it.
Beyond parking, the garage becomes a multifunctional space that can also be used to store tools, seasonal equipment, or even serve as a workshop. This versatility greatly appeals to families and individuals looking for additional storage space.
The value perceived by buyers
For the vast majority of buyers, the presence of a garage positively influences the overall perception of the property. Many real estate brokers note that homes with garages sell faster and attract more visits. The garage thus becomes an important differentiating factor, especially in competitive markets.
It can even tip the balance between two similar properties. A hesitant buyer might opt for the house with the garage, even if it's a little smaller or slightly more expensive. This clearly demonstrates that the value of a garage isn't just a number: it's also based on perceived and emotional value.
Statistics that speak for themselves
In some regions of Quebec, particularly Saguenay, adding a double garage can increase a home's value by up to 16%, according to some real estate appraisers. Elsewhere in the province, estimates generally range between 5% and 10%, depending on the type of garage, its finish, and how well it integrates with the existing building.
These figures are not guaranteed, but they provide a good indication of the potential added value when a garage is well-designed. At Plan Maison Québec, we have repeatedly observed that homes with a well-designed garage stand out on the resale market.
The opinion of approved evaluators
Certified appraisers consider the garage as a tangible physical improvement that adds long-term value. Unlike decorative or aesthetic features, the garage is a useful, durable, and quantifiable space.
These professionals consider the garage's size, its general condition, its integration into the building, its insulation, and the quality of the materials used. An insulated, heated, and well-maintained garage will command a higher value than an outdated or non-functional one. They also assess the added value based on comparable sales in the same area, which allows them to measure the garage's impact in a real-world market context.
What real estate brokers observe in the field
In the field, real estate brokers observe that properties with garages generate more demand. A garage also gives the impression that the house has been well-maintained. During showings, buyers perceive a clean and tidy space as an indicator of the owner's reliability and trustworthiness.
Brokers also point out that certain buyer profiles—families with young children, active retirees, and professionals working from home—place a high priority on the presence of a garage in their search criteria.
Changing Buyer Expectations
A garage, once considered a luxury, has become a near-standard requirement in many Quebec real estate markets. Expectations have evolved: today, a garage must be functional, well-insulated, aesthetically pleasing, and sometimes even equipped with amenities such as an electric car charging station.
Plan Maison Québec now incorporates these new realities into its garage plans, whether it's a garage integrated into a new home, or a detached garage for a cottage or second home.
2 . Determinants of added value linked to a garage
Geographic location
In urban areas or neighborhoods where parking is limited, a garage is a real asset. Its value can be amplified when parking spaces are scarce or paid. Conversely, in rural areas or where lots are large, the need for a garage is perceived as less essential, although it remains useful.
Climate and winter conditions
In Quebec, long, harsh winters make a garage practically indispensable. It's not just a storage space, but an extension of the living space, allowing you to move between the house and the car without having to go out into the cold.
The type of garage
The type of garage directly influences its value. An integrated garage often commands a higher value than a detached one. An attached garage, on the other hand, can offer a good compromise between construction cost and accessibility. Each type offers advantages depending on the property's layout.
To learn more about garage types, see the following article:
Size, space and finish
A well-lit, double garage with built-in storage and good finishes will have a greater impact on your home's value than a small, uninsulated garage. Functional space, ceiling height, ventilation, and flooring quality all play a role in the perceived quality of the build.
Aesthetics and integration
A poorly integrated garage can detract from the visual harmony of the façade. Conversely, a modern garage door that matches the house can greatly improve the exterior appearance. The aesthetic impact is often underestimated, but it strongly influences buyer interest from the very first visit.
Maintenance and general condition
A neglected garage can make other parts of the house look neglected, so it's essential to keep this space clean, organized, and free from problems like moisture or rust.
The local real estate market
In some areas, a garage is essential; in others, it's a secondary consideration. You should analyze comparable sales in your area to determine whether investing in a garage will provide you with a real competitive advantage. Plan Maison Québec can help you with this assessment.
3 . What increase in value can I expect?
There's no universal figure, but trends show that a well-designed garage can increase your home's value by 5% to 16%, depending on the situation. This increase, of course, depends on the local market, the type of garage, its quality, and the level of demand in your area.
But beyond the monetary value, a garage can also speed up the sale and avoid downward negotiations. This is a reassuring factor for buyers, who see it as a wise long-term investment.
4 . Costs and limits to anticipate
Building or renovating a garage involves costs: permits, foundations, insulation, garage door, electrical, siding, etc. Municipal bylaws must also be taken into account, which may limit the size, layout, or height of the structure.
A well-built garage requires regular maintenance to maintain its value. Conversely, a neglected or poorly maintained garage can lower the overall perception of your property.
Plan Maison Québec recommends evaluating the project as a whole: construction costs, impact on property value, future maintenance, and regulatory compliance.
5 . Special cases: chalets, detached garages and outbuildings
In more rural or seasonal settings, such as cottages, the garage takes on a new dimension. It becomes a storage space for outdoor equipment or a workshop for seasonal activities.
A detached garage, well-located and in harmony with the natural environment, can offer significant added value, provided it is well-designed. Architecture, materials, color, and even orientation are all factors to consider. Plan Maison Québec offers custom plans to adapt garages to all types of properties, even the most unusual.
In summary
A garage can truly add value to your home, but only if it's well-designed, well-built, and adapted to your specific circumstances. The type of garage, the quality of the finish, maintenance, location, and local needs all play a crucial role.
At Plan Maison Québec, we consider each project holistically to maximize your return on investment. Whether for new construction or renovation, we analyze your land, your property, your needs, and your resale objectives.
Conclusion: increase home garage value
Yes, a garage increases the value of your property, especially when it's well-integrated, well-designed, and adapted to your region. Whether you're building a house, a cottage, or simply want to add a garage to improve your daily comfort, Plan Maison Québec is here to help.
Our construction and renovation plan design experts will help you plan your project intelligently, while adhering to standards and leveraging our expertise in the Canadian market.
Ready to start building your dream garage?
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