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34 Stouffville Sun-Tribune | Thursday, May 19, 2016 | Tips to help maximize your basement's hidden potential If today's real estate market has you frazzled, a home renovation project may be just the right answer. With house prices on the rise, finishing a basement is the latest trend towards building even more equity in the home. A finished basement can offer a little extra room to give a growing family space to breathe, and with so many uses, a renovated basement may be the exact solution to what your home is missing. It can provide additional storage space, a sound-proofed media room, craft room, guest room, or income suite. The possibilities are endless. Here are some tips on how to give your basement a 180-degree makeover: Waterproof it. Check the interior foundation and floors to make sure there are no existing moisture issues, water damage or mold problems. Address any primary moisture issues before finishing the space. Examine grading to ensure water runs away from your foundation. Soundproof it. Installing acoustic insulation is the perfect excuse to crank up the subwoofer, host a get-together or let the kids run wild. Soundproofing is the ultimate solution to maximize your basement's peace, quiet and privacy. Industry experts suggest using Roxul Safe n' Sound, which effectively absorbs sound and is easy to work with. Add or replace flooring. Installing a new floor can improve the overall comfort level and look of your basement. Vinyl, laminate, ceramic tile, and engineered hardwood are great options. Say no to carpet, which can harbour mold and allergens, particularly in the basement, and don't forget to lay a subfloor. Add Colour. Transform the dull and boring space into an inviting oasis or a colourful playroom with a simple coat of paint. If your basement has low ceilings or limited natural light, choose lighter, warmer tones to brighten the space. To add some drama, consider adding depth and visual interest to your space with a different coloured accent wall. Accessorize it. Throw pillows, rugs, lighting, and artwork are simple additions that can immediately enhance or change your basement's look and feel. Pot lights can modernize, while art work and throw pillows can add a splash of colour. Accessories are really an opportunity to make it your own and let your personality shine through. They also provide an inexpensive way to keep your space looking fresh from year to year. Family, friends & sunshine! Have yourself a wonderful long weekend! -From your Homefinder.ca team! -- Scott McGillivray Scott McGillivray is the award-winning TV host of the hit series Income Property on HGTV Canada, a full-time real estate investor, contractor, author, and educator. Follow him on Twitter @smcgillivray. TO LEARN AND VIEW MORE PHOTOS ABOUT THE HOMES YOU SEE HERE VISIT BrandIng conSulTanT BrandIng conSulTanT aleclerc@yrmg.com wtam@yrmg.com 905-943-6109 905-943-6119 Open Houses This Weekend Alex leClerC Willen TAm Sunday, May 22nd · 2:00 - 4:00 pm I'm on Your Side Complementary Professional Home Staging Home Evaluation Mortgage Approval Home Inspection 26 hi-view Rd mount AlbeRt Stunning custom bungalow on 1.5 acre ravine in town lot Custom in law suite with private drive, 2 car heated gar/shop w/office & sep driveway Theatre room, fin w/o bsmt, heated floors, loaded w/upgrades 3 car o/s garage w/heated floors, area of fine homes 15 mins from Newmarket and 404 Signs at Mt Albert Rd and Highway 48 Scott Leitch Darrin Leitch 905-898-1211 416-798-7365 Direct: 905-853-8037 sleitch@trebnet.com RealtRon Realty Inc., BRokeRage OMEGA REALTY (1988) LTD., BROKERAGE Independently Owned And Operated Sales Representatives $1,590,000 SE OU 4PM N H · 2E OP DAY N SU JUST WHAT YOU'VE BEEN WAITING FOR! 14 years in the Real Estate industry 25 years living in Stouffville Sales Representative 647 239 5044 BrandonCrossen.com 6323 Main St. #2, Whitchurch-Stouffville, Ontario, L4A1G9 $529,900 This Spacious 3 Bdrm Townhouse is 1400 Sq` + 239 Fin Bsmt = 1600 Sq Ft Of Living Space! Freshly Painted Decor Colour! Crown Moulding! Spacious Kit W/Movable Island, Stainless Steel Fridge & Stove! Master W/4 Pc Ensuite Bath + W/I Closet! Fin Bsmt Walks Out To Back Garden Patio, Entrance To Garage & Laundry! All Of This & Mins To 407, Walking Distance To Historic Main St Mkhm, Walking Paths Of Rouge Park! Perfect! For more pictures, go to www.dixiewhite.com 59 ROUGEHAVEN WAY, MARKHAM Dixie White O: 905-471-2000 D: 416-520-9323 Sutton Group Heritage Realty Inc., Brokerage Independently Owned & Operated Sales Representative