Issue link: http://www.epageflip.net/i/944589
NWA Home Show presented by NWA HBA NWA Democrat-Gazette | Sunday, February 25, 2018 22 With the growing popularity of short- term rentals through companies like Airbnb, countless home owners are looking down their basement stairs and seeing great potential. But not all basements are created equal. Some might require significant renovations, and others might not ever be suitable (legal) dwellings. Sean Beliveau, CGP, CAPS, owner of Slate Creek Builders in Blacksburg, Va., and previous recipient of NAHB's Remodeler of the Monthaward, recently offered some advice to builders for when they begin the basement-remodeling process with prospective clients. Build Your Credibility, and Determine Theirs Before the first appointment, Beliveau emails the customer his company's information sheet describing how long he's been in business, what he specializes in and references. He also refers them to his Houzz page and includes a link to the latest Remodeling Cost vs. Value report. "At the beginning of the appointment, I'll ask if they've had a chance to look at the value report, and most say it's really helpful," Beliveau said. "That sets the stage for a much more productive meeting and helps me qualify people right from the start." If the clients realize the project will be more involved and more expensive than they initially thought, they often begin to consider doing it themselves. "If someone thinks they can remodel a 1,000-square-foot basement on their own for under $20,000, they might be able to do that, but only if they bring in their brothers, sisters, aunts and uncles, in- laws and cousins and put them to work," Beliveau said lightheartedly. "But if they want to ensure a high-quality job that's done right the first time, they should hire a professional." Review General Rules Advise the home owner of any local laws on renting out the basement, if that is their objective. Beliveau says in his jurisdiction, zoning offices increasingly monitor short-term rentals with regard to lodging taxes and building safety. When remodeling a basement, code requirements will often vary depending on whether the basement is finished or 3 TIPS for a Profitable Basement Remodel Rogers 479-636-5590 • Springdale 479-756-1788 Eureka Springs 479-253-8967 www.advancepestcontrolnwa.com We Offer Lawn Care Services FAMILY OWNED Protect Your Home and Lawn Taking Care of Your Termite and Pest Control Needs Winner Serving Northwest Arkansas Since 1981 Now Serving SW Missouri Manufactured Stone Come See Our Showroom! 1947 N. Main St. Cave Springs, Arkansas 72718 479-248-7866 diamondpetrastone.com Manufactured Stone Come See Our Showroom 1947 N. Main St. Cave Springs, Arkansas 479-248-7866 diamondpetrastone.com WWW.SEASIDEPOOLS.COM 1301 SE Walton Blvd • Bentonville 479-271-9933 4686 N Thompson • Springdale 479-756-6543 SPECIAL FINANCING AVAILABLE Create your today! Dream Pool