Get matched with top storm shelter pros in Modesto, CA

If you want to know from the outset how much you’re likely to pay to install an outdoor basketball court, create a budget breakdown that lists the following expenses:

• Labor: How many work hours will you need, and what is the average price of labor in your area?

• Materials: What material do you plan to use, and what is the average price per square foot?

• Drainage, grading, and laying cement slabs: Do you need to level or prep your area? Have a professional evaluate your property to determine what you will need to pay a contractor to do this work.

• Hoops, lighting, fencing, painting lines, and other extras: What extras are non-negotiable? Create a list of all of the extras you want your court to have.

This is a matter of personal preference. However, building a detached structure is generally considered better if you intend to rent out the new space. The advantage to going with an attached garage addition is that you may pay less for plumbing, HVAC, and other features because you can use the existing systems from your home to carry over piping and wires.

The average cost of a tornado shelter is $7,520, but there is considerable variation based on the shelter's size, complexity, and type. A shelter big enough to fit 15 people may cost as much as $30,000, for example.

An underground shelter may cost more than an aboveground shelter, particularly if you need to excavate before installing it. If you already have space in a basement for an underground shelter, you'll still need to pay for waterproofing and concrete to construct it.

Yes, you can finance new construction, though the process often requires a different type of loan than one for an existing property. There are several financing options available:

• Construction-to-Permanent Loan: This is a common option where a single loan covers the building costs and then converts into a traditional mortgage once construction is complete and you move in.

• Construction Loan (Stand-Alone): This type of loan provides funding only for the duration of the construction project. Once the house is built, you will need to pay the loan in full, typically by securing a separate, standard mortgage.

• Builder Financing: Some custom homebuilders offer their own financing options, which may only require a down payment to begin the building process.

• Bridge Loan: This can be a useful short-term loan to fund your new construction while you are in the process of selling your old home.

• Home Equity Options: If you are building a second home, you might be able to use a home equity line of credit (HELOC) or a cash-out refinance on your current property.

It's also important to be aware that some lenders may have restrictions on financing for DIY house builds, so be sure to verify that you can secure financing before starting your project.