Importance of a garage?

[namechangerblob]

How important do people feel it is for a property to retain a garage? Would another comparable storage space suffice or do people still like somewhere to store their car? Thanks

From what I'm reading I think the loss of the garage wouldn't be a massive dealbreaker in our situation - we're not planning on moving for many, many years; have enough off street parking for several cars, in a safe area and have plenty of storage in the house and garden. Other than those specifically wanting garages for vehicles then there are plenty of options. The alternative converted use would be so much better for us in the coming years and be attractive to a range of buyers.

I agree that it depends on the area. Our area is very expensive, so most people have bought bought smaller (so cheaper) houses then either converted the attached garage to living space, or knocked it down conpletely to make way for a big / double storey extension. We've incorporated a big utility room into the extension, we have 2 sheds and drive at front of house is big enough to park 2 or 3 cars. We therefore dont miss a garage.

However, if housing was cheaper and could have bought a bigger house, we wouldn't have needed to convert the garage. So, for me, a garage is a nice-to-have if you have a big enough house. If its a choice between a garage or more living space, I'd have living space every day of the week.

Family houses need somewhere for bikes, bulky play equipment, garden tools plus other random stuff that you don't want in the house or there isn't room for. A pretty large storage area is needed for these which needs to be dry and secure.

In most cases a garage is bigger and more secure than a shed. Most families need them. Most are happy to keep their cars outside especially if there is a drive or off road parking, but they want the storage and really need it.

Those upsizing to a house like yours might be dreaming of extra storage and having a garage for the first time. Families with young children like a playroom, but if a house is large or small, people of all ages need a large storage space to keep all the stuff listed above and highly value a garage for that. Some houses have a brick built giant shed in the garden with easy access - if you've got one of those, it's fine to lose the she, but otherwise I wouldn't in terms of reselling.

That said, if the alternative to getting rid of garage is to need to move and spend €€€€ to get that extra room, then it's worth doing if you plan to stay for a while.