Is it worth it to finish my basement before selling my house in Riverview?

Finishing your basement in Riverview can add significant value, but the return depends heavily on your home's current condition, the local market, and how well the work is executed. In Riverview's competitive housing market, a properly finished basement often helps homes stand out and can add $30,000-$60,000 in value when done right.

Market Context for Riverview
Riverview consistently ranks among New Brunswick's most desirable communities, with strong demand from families seeking quality schools and proximity to Moncton. Many 1970s-1990s split-levels and bi-levels in Riverview have unfinished basements that represent untapped potential. A well-finished basement can effectively double your usable living space, which resonates strongly with buyers in this market.

Key Considerations Before Starting
First, address any moisture issues – Riverview's clay soils and seasonal water table fluctuations make basement waterproofing critical. If you're dealing with dampness, musty odors, or previous water damage, solve these problems first or they'll undermine any finishing work. Expect to invest $3,000-$8,000 in proper waterproofing if needed.

Check your basement's ceiling height – you need minimum 1.95m (6'5") under the National Building Code. Many older Riverview homes meet this, but measure carefully around ductwork and beams. Also verify that your electrical panel can handle additional circuits for lighting, outlets, and potentially electric baseboard heating.

Renovation Scope and Costs
A basic basement finish in Riverview typically runs $50-$75 per square foot, while higher-end work reaches $80-$100+ per square foot. For a typical 800 square foot basement, budget $40,000-$80,000 including:

• Framing and drywall


• Flooring (luxury vinyl plank is popular and moisture-resistant)


• Electrical upgrades and lighting


• Insulation and vapor barrier


• Ceiling treatment (drywall or drop ceiling for utility access)

Adding a bathroom increases costs by $15,000-$25,000 but significantly boosts appeal to buyers with teenagers or those considering rental income.

Permit Requirements
Contact the Town of Riverview Development Services for building permit requirements. Even basic finishing work typically requires permits to ensure proper electrical, insulation, and egress window installation. If you're adding a bathroom, plumbing permits from NB Technical Inspection Services (TIS) are mandatory, and the work must be done by a licensed plumber.

Professional vs. DIY Considerations
While homeowners can handle painting, flooring installation, and basic carpentry, electrical work must be done by a licensed contractor with proper NB Power permits. Same for any plumbing rough-in. Many Riverview homeowners tackle the finishing work themselves after having the electrical and plumbing professionally installed.

Timeline and Market Timing
A basement renovation typically takes 6-10 weeks if done professionally, or 3-6 months for ambitious DIYers working evenings and weekends. If you're planning to sell within the next year, starting this winter makes sense – you'll have the work completed for spring listing season when Riverview's market is most active.

The Bottom Line
In Riverview's strong market, a quality basement finish typically returns 60-80% of your investment while making your home much more competitive. However, if your basement has ongoing moisture issues, low ceilings, or your home needs other major updates (roof, windows, HVAC), address those priorities first.

Find licensed basement finishing contractors in our New Brunswick directory to get accurate quotes based on your specific space and goals.