English Basements in D.C.
English basements in D.C. are all the rage, and the market offers tons of rental and purchasing opportunity for those who want to be a part of the trend.
English basements in D.C. are common in older townhomes and row homes around the city. They are transformed into separate apartments with separate entrances and are usually only partially underground, giving them windows with plenty of natural light.
Renters can find ample choice in English basements in D.C. around the Internet, like a $1,650, 650-square-foot studio in the heart of 14th Street, walking distance to U Street. Or a $1,400, one-bedroom, 500-square-foot apartment is available for rent in Adams Morgan, according to Craigslist postings.
But supply of row homes and townhomes on the market can offer potential buyers an extra income stream if they convert and rent their English basements in D.C. Although, landlords who want their own basement conversions for leasable areas may find it complicated to meet the requirements and restrictions on renting out these spaces.
Washington D.C. is perhaps one of the more stringent areas in the country for regulating basement apartments, but landlords in any state need to meet codes. Among them are rules of including windows in habitable areas and including proper locking devices for safety reasons on doors to the outside.
While D.C.’s local laws do not require separate heating and cooling systems for basement conversions, landlords who separate their systems may find their English basements in D.C. are more marketable. It’s also a better way to separate the costs of utilities for the English basement from the upper living quarters.
Renting basement conversions can provide a valuable income stream for homeowners who have the space and the funds to renovate, and they’re especially popular with young professionals around the nation’s capital. But landlords must be through in planning the remodeling so that the basement conversion meets code and provides the most safe and comfortable living space.
For more information:
Rock Creek Realty: http://www.rcrdc.com/adams-morgan.php?p=3
Craigslist English Basement Posting: http://washingtondc.craigslist.org/doc/apa/3915400577.html
English Basement Guidelines: http://rentmydcbasement.wordpress.com/
