Ask Joshua: Should I Finish My Basement During New Construction or Wait?

Hi Joshua,

My husband and I purchased our first home in a new development, and it is currently under construction. Our builder recently asked whether we would like to finish the basement now or leave it unfinished and complete it later.

For approximately $18,000, the builder would add a full bathroom, wet bar, bedroom, and bonus room. We don’t have plans to decorate or use all these spaces immediately, but we’re wondering whether we should take advantage of the opportunity while the house is under construction.

Because this is our first home and we have no experience with remodeling, which option would make more financial sense? Should we finish the basement now or wait until later?

Thank you,

Briana - Denver, Colorado

Mid-century modern finished basement living room designed by virtual interior designer Joshua Jones of JJones Design Co. 3D rendering by Stuccco.

Hi Briana,

If the $18,000 includes a properly permitted bedroom, full bathroom, wet bar, and bonus room, I would seriously consider having the basement finished while the rest of the house is under construction.

Completing it now may be more convenient and less expensive than hiring contractors later. The builder’s crews are already on-site, materials are being ordered, and the plumbing, electrical work, insulation, HVAC, and drywall can be coordinated with the rest of the house. Finishing the basement later could also mean construction noise, dust, disrupted routines, and limited access through a home you have already furnished.

Before agreeing, however, ask the builder for a detailed written description of what the $18,000 includes. Confirm the flooring, lighting, electrical outlets, heating and cooling, bathroom fixtures, cabinetry, countertops, permits, and paint. You should also verify that the proposed bedroom will meet local egress requirements and that the basement has appropriate moisture protection and radon mitigation.

Because this work may be included in your mortgage, consider how much the additional cost and interest would affect your monthly payment. A finished basement can make a home more functional and appealing to future buyers, but you shouldn’t assume that every dollar spent will automatically be recovered when you sell.

Think about how long you plan to stay in the house and whether you can realistically use the additional space. The bedroom and bathroom could accommodate guests, while the bonus room might become a family room, home office, exercise room, or playroom. You don’t need to furnish or decorate everything immediately. Once the construction is complete, you can allow the rooms to evolve as your needs and budget become clearer.

Based on the scope and price you were quoted, I would lean toward finishing the basement now—as long as the work is properly permitted, the specifications meet your expectations, and the additional cost fits comfortably within your budget.

Warmly,

Joshua

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