Hi DIYers - originally posted this in r/homeimprovement and thought I would post it here too as I did most of the work myself with some help from my dad and amazing boyfriend.Background: I bought my house 2 years ago and have a whole litany of projects that I want to do in every section of the house (Basement, finish the unfinished attic space, and completely gut the kitchen). I decided to stagger my approach, and since I didn't want to live in a complete mess, I started with the basement.When I bought the house the basement was listed as finished...which meant cheap 70/80's style laminated paneling, 12x12 staple up ceiling tiles, and 9x9 asbestos floor tile (oh goody). I wanted to turn the space into a place to relax, have a drink, and have a game night or two with friends every once in a while. It took a lot of blood (literally), sweat, and tears but in the end my expectations where exceeded...and my budget.Initial budget estimate: $15,000 Ending expense: a hair over $19,000Major expenses/contracted item:Granite counter tops for the bar (~$3,800)Gas fireplace (~$4,000)Carpeting (~$2,100)All other supplies ~$9,100 (sheetrock, cabinets, paneling, vinyl plank floor, ceiling, etc...)The plan: Gut the entire basement, figure out why my water pressure was so low, add an additional bedroom with egress, and transform the living space into something warm and inviting.Timing: 7 months start to finish, it probably would have been faster but I got lazy and frustrated a few times along the way. Not to mention life happens...Here's the gallery of pictures: http://ift.tt/2sybTTA: Basement had a VFW feel to it and I decided to change that. via /r/DIY http://ift.tt/2sjuiBG
