Cheapest way to finish an attic space?

Question

Here we have an extra 900 sqft unfinished attic space. It is a rental unit, So I'm being cheap here ;) Possible 2k or less. Looking to turn this into playroom or storage or huge closet. I'm Open to option and creative idea. Attaching pic to the space.

Kenneth Garrett · Answer

@Jennifer Dejoyvor

Based on the potential ceiling height, it would be a storage room at best.  To make it a habitable space, the ceiling height needs to be a minimum of 7 feet for 1/3 of the required room size per the residential code, your jurisdiction might be 1/2.  Example would be a living space is required to be 120 square feet so 40 square feet has to have a ceiling height of 7 feet not sure you have that.  Bedroom code says a minimum of 70 (some areas 100) 1/3 of 70 is 23.3 or 24.  You’ll need an emergency escape window, smoke detector, receptacles, insulation, drywall, etc. Probably way over $2000.  Plus the railing around the opening.

Joseph Firmin · Answer

Is it going to add value to the property if you finish it? You want to ensure you'll see a return. Is the resident willing to pay more for the extra usable space? Could you make it an additional unit entirely or rent it out as storage? May want to network with other investors in your area to see what they've done.