Got a Garage? Make It a Selling Feature on Cape Cod
If you're preparing to sell your Cape Cod home, you're likely focusing on kitchen and bath upgrades, fresh paint, and curb appeal. But one powerful (and often overlooked) area that can drive serious value? The garage.
For buyers in towns like Barnstable, Harwich, Chatham, and Yarmouth, the garage is no longer just a parking space. It’s a storage solution, a workshop, a flex space and a reflection of how well the rest of the home is cared for. With strategic upgrades, your garage can deliver a return on investment between 50% and 80% and help your property stand out in today’s competitive market.
Build or Expand a Garage
If your home doesn’t have a garage or only has a detached or undersized one consider building or expanding. Attached garages, in particular, are highly sought-after by Cape Cod buyers who value convenience, protection from the elements, and secure storage.
Make it stand out
Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference.
ROI insight: According to national and regional data, homeowners typically recover 65 to 80 percent of the cost of building or expanding a garage at resale. In high-demand neighborhoods or areas with limited off-street parking, the return can be even higher. More importantly, it significantly increases the number of qualified buyers interested in your home.
Install Built-In Storage Systems
An organized garage makes a strong impression during showings. Adding built-in cabinets, bike racks, wall-mounted shelving, or overhead storage makes the space look larger and more useful—especially to second-home buyers who need a spot for kayaks, beach gear, and tools.
ROI insight: While the upfront cost is relatively low, built-in garage storage systems can yield a return of 50 to 60 percent. Beyond that, they add perceived value by showing buyers that the home is turnkey and thoughtfully maintained—two key factors in fast, high-quality offers.
Finish the Interior
Unfinished garages often feel like a utility space. But with simple upgrades—such as drywall, paint, baseboards, sealed flooring (epoxy or polyurea), and updated lighting—the garage becomes a polished extension of the home.
ROI insight: A finished interior can deliver a 50 to 65 percent return on investment, especially when combined with smart storage and upgraded doors. Just as important, it improves listing photography and sets a higher-quality tone from the moment buyers enter.
Maximize Flexibility
With today’s emphasis on remote work and multi-generational living, many buyers want bonus spaces. Highlight the potential to use the garage as a workshop, office, gym, or art studio. Even if you don’t convert the space, make sure it’s clean, bright, and staged in a way that sparks imagination.
Final Thoughts: A Smart Investment Hiding in Plain Sight
On Cape Cod, where storage, storm protection, and flexible living space are always in demand, the garage is more than just a utility zone; it's a strategic asset. Whether you're adding square footage, enhancing functionality, or simply polishing what's already there, a well-executed garage upgrade can directly increase your home’s marketability and resale value.
From built-in organization to upgraded finishes, buyers notice the details. And in a market where first impressions matter, the garage can play a pivotal role in setting your property apart.
