How to Choose the Right Garage Size for Your Property in Twin Cities, MN
Choosing the right garage size for your property in Twin Cities, MN, can significantly impact both your lifestyle and property value. Whether you are planning to build a new garage or expand an existing one, selecting the ideal size involves careful consideration of multiple factors.
For many homeowners, the garage serves more than just a place to park vehicles—it becomes a valuable storage space, workshop, and extension of the home. That's why understanding how to balance your needs with local zoning regulations, vehicle sizes, and long-term value can ensure your garage enhances both functionality and aesthetics.
In this article, we will explore several important questions, including factors to consider when selecting the right garage size, how a larger garage can affect property value, and the best dimensions for multi-car households. We’ll also discuss the influence of local zoning laws on garage size decisions and explore whether expanding an existing garage is a feasible option for accommodating larger vehicles.
Keep reading to discover practical tips and expert insights on choosing the right garage size for your Twin Cities home!
What Factors Should You Consider When Selecting a Garage Size?
Several key factors come into play when deciding on the perfect garage size for your home. First, assess the number and type of vehicles you own. If you drive larger vehicles, such as SUVs or trucks, you will need additional space compared to a standard sedan. Consider not just the width and length of the garage but also the height, especially if you plan to store equipment or use roof racks. Additionally, think about future needs—if you plan to purchase more vehicles or use the garage for storage or workspace, choose a size that accommodates these changes.
Another crucial consideration is the overall layout of your property. The garage should complement your home’s architecture and not overwhelm the yard or driveway. Pay attention to driveway length and access points to ensure vehicles can comfortably enter and exit the garage without obstructions. Furthermore, incorporating space for extra storage, such as bicycles, lawn equipment, or hobby areas, should also influence your decision on garage size.
Lastly, budgetary constraints will inevitably play a role. While larger garages offer more flexibility, they also come with higher construction and maintenance costs. Balancing your practical needs with what you can afford will help you select the right size that meets your long-term goals.
How Can a Larger Garage Impact Property Value in Twin Cities?
In the Twin Cities area, a larger garage can significantly increase your property value, especially in neighborhoods where space and vehicle storage are considered essential features. A well-designed, spacious garage is a sought-after amenity for many potential buyers, offering additional storage space or room for hobbies such as woodworking or car restoration. Larger garages often make a property more attractive on the market, as they provide versatility for different types of homeowners.
However, it’s important to ensure that the size of the garage fits within the overall scale of the property. A garage that is disproportionately large compared to the house or takes up too much yard space can negatively affect curb appeal and even limit outdoor activities. Thoughtful design and proportionality will ensure the garage enhances, rather than detracts from, your property’s value.
In a competitive real estate market like the Twin Cities, maximizing your home’s resale potential is key. A larger garage can be a deciding factor for many buyers, and it may allow you to ask for a higher selling price.
What Is the Ideal Garage Size for Multi-Car Households?
For multi-car households, the ideal garage size is generally a two-car or three-car garage, depending on the number of vehicles you own and their sizes. A standard two-car garage typically measures about 24 feet wide by 24 feet deep, which comfortably fits two standard-size vehicles with some extra room for maneuvering and storage. However, if you own larger vehicles, such as SUVs, or if you require additional storage for sports equipment or tools, expanding the depth or width may be necessary.
Families with multiple vehicles or those who use their garage for more than just parking will benefit from the additional space that a larger garage provides. Consider future-proofing your garage by opting for slightly larger dimensions to accommodate potential vehicle upgrades or additional storage needs. A three-car garage can offer the flexibility needed for families with multiple drivers or a combination of vehicles and recreational items like motorcycles or bicycles.
Keep in mind that your property’s size and local zoning regulations may limit the extent to which you can expand, so planning ahead and understanding these restrictions is crucial. While larger garages may cost more initially, they often provide greater long-term value by increasing the utility and resale appeal of your home.
How Does Your Local Zoning Impact Garage Size Selection?
Before finalizing your garage design, it is essential to understand your local zoning laws, as they dictate the maximum garage size allowed on your property. In Twin Cities, zoning regulations can vary depending on the neighborhood and property type. Factors such as setbacks, height restrictions, and total square footage permitted for accessory structures will impact your design choices.
Setbacks refer to the minimum distance required between the garage and the property lines, which can limit the available space for a larger structure. Additionally, some areas may have rules governing the total footprint of accessory buildings relative to the size of the lot. Ensure that your planned garage complies with these regulations to avoid costly modifications or delays in the approval process.
Consulting with local zoning authorities or working with a contractor who is familiar with Twin Cities regulations will help you navigate these requirements. Understanding the legal parameters early in the planning stage can save you time and ensure that your garage meets both functional and legal standards.
Can You Expand Your Existing Garage to Fit Larger Vehicles?
Expanding an existing garage to fit larger vehicles is a viable option, especially if your current garage is too small for your needs. Many homeowners choose to extend the depth or width of their garage to accommodate larger SUVs, trucks, or recreational vehicles. Before starting such a project, it's important to assess the existing foundation and structure to determine whether an expansion is feasible without compromising the building’s integrity.
In some cases, local zoning laws may limit the extent of an expansion, particularly if your garage is already close to the property line or exceeds the total allowable square footage for accessory buildings. It’s crucial to obtain the necessary permits and approvals before beginning construction to avoid penalties or delays.
If you're considering expanding your garage, working with a company that understands the specific needs of the Twin Cities area, such as Sussel Garages, can ensure the project is completed to code while enhancing the overall functionality and value of your property. Please call us at 612-379-0949 or send us a message online for more information about our custom garage solutions.