@CNJ Rick posted:Bill, As someone who has recently moved from my lifelong home in New Jersey to my retirement home in Kentucky, I feel like I know your current situation. I too was very much interested in having what I thought were important features of our next home. After looking at many properties in several States we were able to find one which suited our needs perfectly.
As I have not had an actual layout in almost 20 years, planning for a large train layout, as well as a finished common area to relax in led us to purchase a Ranch Style home. A Ranch home with a full walkout basement would best suit our needs without major costly additions. It also offers better access for later in life when mobility becomes more of an issue.
The Ranch style home with a basement, is like getting the same square footage as your living space, for a fraction of the cost per square foot. The house we found sits at the highest point on the property and offers a walkout glass entry and plenty of daylight which is a huge difference, as it doesn't feel like a basement. Water conditions, possibly flooding and sump pumps are all concerns that I have dealt with in my prior homes.
If you have the ability to do your own finishes, a unfinished basement is the way to go. Spend a few dollars and get the utilities grouped in an area where they will not affect your layout area. Tearing down finishes already in place will be like throwing money away. It also allows you to complete the work over time and use the space to best suit your personal needs. Having the layout room finished first will make it more comfortable in the long run, ask me how I know?
I now have the luxury of a drop ceiling and believe me it is the way to go! Access is there when you need it, and dust and dirt are mostly eliminated. Adding track lighting or any other work is as easy as removing the panels, installing a wire or additional light fixtures, ceiling fan, outlets, speakers, cable TV etc. can be done at any time with little trouble.
As I will be spending more time in my future Train Room I wanted it to be as comfortable as possible. A separate utility room, storage room, and bathroom are all huge bonuses with the overall planning of the space available. Keep in mind the costs related to the finishing of a basement will most likely add value to your home.
For me it was important to have a balance of space for "my wants" and the rest of the Family getting to enjoy the basement as well. Our basement now has a finished Family room with Pool table and entertaining area, spare guest bedroom suite, small office area, utility closet and "most importantly" space for a future 22' x 12' layout! My layout will be open to the common areas and allow me to display my collection of Lionel Dealer items, posters and artwork that I have collected over the years. Train shelves under the layout will add to the finished look and should help with the overall appearance.
I am lucky enough to have a very understanding Wife of 30 years, who has been amazing with all of my hobbies and what goes along with each, Truly Blessed !
Finding the next home is not easy, but knowing what you really want is the key to success! Best wishes with your search, Rick
well said
